The Armstrong's

Pics with Paige

2011-11-10T05:48:00.000-08:00

Ephesus

2011-10-24T05:56:00.003-07:00

Ephesus - flash slideshow maker

Greece

2011-10-24T05:56:00.001-07:00

Greece - flash slideshow maker

Israel

2011-10-24T05:55:00.000-07:00

Israel - flash slideshow maker

Istanbul

2011-10-24T05:30:00.000-07:00

Istanbul - slideshow dvd<>

Cousins

2011-08-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

After the four girls cousins in a row that Clara was part of, the Armstrong's then had 4 boy cousins in a row -- here are Westin's photos -- check out Denise Knowles Photography for more.

First Day of Dance

2011-08-07T08:18:00.000-07:00

Hiding spot

2011-08-07T07:58:00.001-07:00

He's pulling up!

2011-07-18T19:18:00.001-07:00

Guess we really have to baby proof now! Lowered the crib a notch. Kiddo is getting big!

Oh....and he likes to play with the dog (toys).....

BBQ in the Park

2011-07-18T19:09:00.000-07:00

We had a BBQ in the park. I love how Westin loves his sister....

So he sits on her!

4th of July 2011

2011-07-10T07:23:00.001-07:00

Hope you had a great fourth!

Easter Morning

2011-04-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

Easter Round One

2011-04-27T19:53:00.001-07:00

Easter Round Two

2011-04-27T19:43:00.001-07:00

At the Armstrong's

Easter Round Three

2011-04-27T19:29:00.001-07:00

Winchester's house - you gotta check out Clara's face in this first picture. She did this every egg she found. What a ham.

Swim Day

2011-04-10T20:14:00.000-07:00

We sure needed a swim day. With all of the snow, boating just seems like it is not going to happen this year. So, we headed to the pool!

Making Wes Laugh

2011-03-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

It doesn't take much to make Wes laugh. But it is the most infectious laugh ever. His little smile is what I live for.

This video is of John and Clara making him laugh. Love my family!

Another month has gone by

2011-03-14T20:02:00.001-07:00

Moved the bouncer to level 2

Matching converse - Pink and Green - I'm obsessed still

Making Valentine's

Working on getting the binky in mouth - yes it is a pink Bumbo

Working on "real" food - ok with cereal, not as adventurous as Clara with other

Clara is 3 and Wes is 4 months

2011-02-13T18:43:00.001-08:00

Time sure flies....Clara's pics by Paige Davis Photography.

Snowbasin Christmas Eve

2010-12-30T09:33:00.000-08:00

We headed up to Snowbasin for Christmas eve dinner and to see Santa one more time. It was a beautiful drive up. I haven't been up there for years! Clara got to see Santa, but she didn't say a whole lot! Luckily she got all she asked for!

Sugar Cookie Bakeoff

2010-12-30T09:18:00.000-08:00

We had the cousins over for a sugar cookie bake off -- decorating the cookies for Santa. I didn't get a whole lot of pics, wish I had more. Aunt Mandy has some on her blog. Click HERE to see more. We had a blast!

North Pole Express

2010-12-12T08:48:00.000-08:00

Jessica treated Clara and I to a ride on the North Pole Express. It was lots of fun! We got to see Santa (again), have a cookie and hot cocoa, and sing christmas songs.
PS What do you think of my new digital scrapping skills?

Christmas Decorations

2010-12-08T10:56:00.000-08:00

When we got the big snow storm and could not go out, we decided to make christmas ornaments for Clara's tree. We got this tree at her baby shower. I love it! It is so Clara. Also, here are her "decorations".

This one is her favorite

Oh Clara

2010-12-07T10:52:00.000-08:00

Such a poser! Why she thinks she has to put her head on her shoulder is beyond me!

FIrst of the Snow Storms

2010-12-06T10:48:00.000-08:00

This was the first major snow storm of the year. Clara loves "helping" shovel. The dogs loved it too.

Thanksgiving

2010-12-06T10:46:00.001-08:00

Only got two pics of Westin at Thanksgiving.....but isn't he cute??

Disney on Ice

2010-11-18T11:57:00.000-08:00

We received some tickets to Disney on Ice, so we decided to have a family date night. It was the show a year ago where Clara first started to really get into princesses. That was when she shouted to Snow White "Don't eat the apple". This year was a little different. She got into the actual show a little more. I wish there was more princesses, but at least there was Ariel. The Little Mermaid I think would have to be her favorite these days.

After the show, we headed to Applebees for dinner. It was a great family date night, except when I fell down the stairs at the ESA, holding Clara's hand. I don't think I have my balance back yet. I misstepped turning to go to our seats. The worst part was that I dragged Clara down with me! I felt so horrible. I'm glad that it is winter however, because my legs are so bruised! Westin did great---he slept through the whole thing. Maybe next year he will get to enjoy it!

Sorry - no pics of Westin or me....

The little people...

2010-11-17T13:30:00.000-08:00

These little people are what I live for. Some days I want to pull my hair out, but I have learned to step back and realize that I'm gonna miss these days. There is a song by Trace Adkins that really sums up how I feel these days:

You're gonna miss this
You're gonna want this back
You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast
These are some good times
So take a good look around
You may not know it now
But you're gonna miss this

I'm going to miss Fall

2010-11-15T13:24:00.000-08:00

With the nice Fall weather we were having, I was able to walk over to Clara's daycare and pick her up, and then walk home. Clara really enjoyed pushing the stroller, for about the first two days. It was nice to have some time to talk to Clara before we got home and had to get into the rush of the evening. Thanks Fall for sticking around for awhile.

Pics of Westin

2010-11-13T13:07:00.000-08:00

Just some pics as of late....

Halloween Pics - better late than never

2010-11-11T12:18:00.000-08:00

Official Pics from Halloween. We had a blast. Two parties, one night of rainy trick or treating, and a whole lot of fun!

And a small video of Clara trick or treating!

It's Over

2010-11-11T11:24:00.000-08:00

Westin was circumcised yesterday. I am so glad that it is over with! Poor guy just wanted to be held the rest of the day. He did gain 2 pounds in the last two weeks, so he went from the 75th to the 90th percentile in weight. Guess he is eating well!

Boppy Pics

2010-10-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

Had to get a boppy pic, like I did Clara. I'm not sure if we created a carbon copy or if Westin looks a lot different....time will tell!

Westin's First Bath

2010-10-29T07:32:00.000-07:00

Since Westin's umbilical cord fell out, we decided to give him a real bath. Of course, Clara wanted to help. It was quite and event! Luckily, Westin is really a calm baby and didn't mind getting bathed by Clara.

Getting the water ready

Help -- mom? Nope, have to run the cameras son!

Isn't that a mischievous look!

All clean - and actually enjoyed it!

Halloween Party

2010-10-29T07:25:00.000-07:00

Clara had a Halloween Party at Kim's house yesterday. I got to go with Westin to enjoy as well. They trick or treated at a couple of houses, had a parade and played lots of games.

Coloring and Stickers -- of course

Getting ready for the parade

Baby Westin slept through everything!

The three amigos - Amelia, Alex and Clara

From Clara's Point of View

2010-10-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

Clara has taken to photography lately -- as evidenced by the below pictures. I love to see how she sees the world. She is curious, wants to document everything, and wants to share her experiences with everyone. Some of the pictures aren't to shabby!

Self Portrait

He's faking it...

Silly joy!

Sillier grandpa!

Picture of Baby Brother

Hi Mom!

Binki, my drink, and a sleepy dad in the back, not faking it this time

Baby Brother's Feet --has my curled pinky toes

Mom's feet in bed

IV Stand - Clara was so confused by this, had to take a pic

The floor - but I love her little piggies in this pic

Chris and Baby Westin

Cute Nikki

Cute Sophie!

Had to get a pic of Sophie's outfit - too cute!

Daddy lounging

It's been a week!

2010-10-18T10:03:00.001-07:00

It's been a week since Baby Westin Pall Armstrong has arrived, and much longer since I have blogged. I am going to try to blog a lot before going back to work January 3rd. The nice thing about having Westin on October 11, 2010, is that it puts me back to work after all the holidays.

A quick note on my pregnancy: Wow - what a difference from Clara. It went by really quickly, especially working again. It was a great way to keep my mind off of being pregnant. I was able to workout through about the sixth month (thank you Laura!). Overall, I gained about 10 pounds less than with Clara. Yippee!

About two weeks before d-day, I got a really bad sinus infection. This caused some intense Braxton Hicks. I was almost hoping to deliver early just so that I could take some medicine! But no, held out till my due date. I am pretty impressed that my kids listen to their mom already and come on their due dates.

Labor was a breeze compared to Clara's birth. My water didn't break fully like it did with Clara's. I did finally get to experience the "real" contractions. Unfortunately, like Clara's trip to the hospital, it was early in the morning. Got to the hospital around 2 am. Jessica was an awesome aunt and came to my house so that Clara could sleep. I am so lucky to have her. Clara was only slightly confused when she found Jessica taking a shower, not mom like she usually does.

Best Sister Ever

I received my epidural around 6 am, took a little nap, and waited for the doctor to arrive around 8 am. We called our family and let then know we would have a baby probably around noon. Apparently, I was leaking fluid, but my water hadn't completely broke, so we just needed the doctor to come and break it. Well, I couldn't believe it, but as soon as the doctor walked in the room, my water broke on it's own. That doctor should carry a magic wand, not any medical devices. She checked me, and told us we would have a baby within a half an hour. I about fell out of bed! I was expecting another 3 pm delivery. John and I had to call back all the relatives and let them know that baby would be here a lot quicker.

I didn't post any of these pics last time --but what the heck -- waiting for the epidural

Four contractions later at 9:13 am, Baby Armstrong was here! John got to cut the cord and this time I got to keep him with me all the way up to the nursery. That was such a neat experience compared to being slightly worried with Clara being vacuumed.

He's here! 8 lbs 2 oz and 20 inches long

Not bad a pic!

Peek a boo! I made it!

First Bath

Now, if you noticed, I said Baby Armstrong. Coming up with his name was one of the most difficult situations I have ever put my self into. John and I did have a "list" of names, but none of them seemed to fit. About a week before he was born, we were coming up with names that had "ten" at the end in case he was born 10-10-10. We really like Westin, but didn't think of it again till after he was born. After much discussion and a lot of (maybe not so) helpful input from family, on the second day, we decided Westin it was. It does not have any real meaning, we just like the way it sounded. Pall is Icelandic, pronounced "Paul". Most of you probably know my maiden name is Palsson. But when you just use it as a name, you spell it Pall. I am glad to continue my family's legacy with my son's name.

Mom, Westin and Grandpa Palsson

And now it has been a week. I can't believe how time flies. We are doing great. Clara loves her baby brother, although still wants him to be named Erick, so she can be Ariel (like in Little Mermaid in case you don't have kids). I don't know if it just this is #2, or if Westin is a calmer baby, but everything is so much easier with him. Feeding, sleeping, everything!

Clara and baby brother. The hats were donated to St. Mark's by some volunteers!

Clara questioned everything -- the bed, the IV, you name it!

Going home. Look how small he is compared to the seat!

I am a lucky mom to have two such beautiful and healthy little ones. I am so grateful for my family and friends and neighbors who have made this week fly by. Thank you!

iPhone Pics as of late

2010-09-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th!

2010-07-04T16:42:00.001-07:00

All the girls

At the parade

Her helper!

She got a lot of candy

Clara's favorite float -- because of the princesses, but then listen to the video below

First Day of Boating 2010

2010-06-05T20:36:00.001-07:00

Happy Memorial Day

2010-06-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Curious George and the Puppies by Clara

2010-05-05T19:44:00.000-07:00

Swimming

2010-04-28T12:24:00.001-07:00

These were the only pics I could get before the battery died....(insert sad face!) Had a blast with the kids at the pool. It is so nice that they are bigger now and can do more things on their own.

San Diego

2010-04-22T14:47:00.001-07:00

Quick trip to San Diego, Sea World and family.

First plane ride without car seat, and paying full price!

La Jolla cove flowers

What a poser!

Family shot

Loved the ocean

Deciding where to go at Sea World

Abby ride at Sesame Bay (best thing ever)

Elmo 4D movie

Flamingos that stunk

Coronado Beach --first time we actually took CJ to a beach

Showing Georgia her pretty dress

Loves her Dylan

Sand Castle time

Dinner -- they had to sit next to each other

Ended the trip with nummy cupcakes -- check Georgia out hehe!

Hi Mom!

2010-04-15T08:38:00.001-07:00

Guess we were anxious...headed to the mall yesterday!

Wrapped around her little finger

2010-04-08T10:16:00.001-07:00

This is Clara telling the neighborhood boys her story, which is:

Once upon a time, there was a lovely princess in a castle, the end!

Which then the boys laughed every time~!

Easter present

2010-03-30T15:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks Gramsie and Haka! (Click on the triangle in the center to make the video play)

Disney on Ice

2010-03-16T17:06:00.001-07:00

Stunned walking in

Front row seats!!

If something was too scary, this is what Cj would do

Waving goodbye

Thanks Josette, Grandma and Poppa Blake. We had a blast!!

Boat Show

2010-03-02T20:12:00.001-08:00

Superbowl @ Boondocks

2010-03-02T20:10:00.001-08:00

California Adventure Bday

2010-01-25T16:49:00.000-08:00

We went to California Adventures for CJ's birthday. We had lots of fun!! Enjoy the pics!

And here is her first cake this year....more to come!

Early Christmas present

2009-12-16T08:09:00.000-08:00

Clara is one lucky girl! She found the presents that her great grandparents and great aunt sent to her from California. She loves everything. So much in fact, that she has taken the notebook and animals and even the shoes into her bed with her. What a lucky girl! She says thank you!

Snow Day

2009-12-16T07:55:00.001-08:00

Clara had lots of fun playing in the snow and helping to shovel.

Sesame Street Live!

2009-12-11T17:10:00.001-08:00

Clara, Jessica and I went to Sesame Street live today. We had lots of fun. Clara recognized all of her friends and enjoyed every minute of it, minus the time she had to go potty, minus the last 5 minutes of the show when we left because she said she was tired. Life of a almost 2 year old!

Had to have all of her friends go with us to the show.

Aunty and CJ -- she had this smile most of the show

Dancing and singing along

She went potty at the show so she got a tshirt and a ball

About 2 seconds after we got into the car. Guess she was right.

Latest Sewing Projects

2009-10-23T13:09:00.001-07:00

Here are my latest: The first is a table runner that I was able to quilt on my own machine! And it went together so quickly! This quilt-----what can I say, I love the fabrics. They are actually christmas materials. There are trees, presents, peppermints, but they are mostly in brown and blue, the colors of my house. So this is my cuddle blanket for the winter! I love this fabric so much, I have actually made a mantle cover and a table runner. They just need a few more finishing touches. Pics to come later!

To sum it up, HAPPY HOLIDAYS a little early. May the season bring you warmth and joy!

Falling Asleep

2009-10-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

Silly Clara! This is how she fell asleep today....loves the ball!

Witchy weekend and Pumpkin Hunting

2009-10-04T10:35:00.001-07:00

Clara had a busy weekend. On Thursday, CJ helped mommy clean and dust the house to get ready for the cousins to come over on Friday. After the party/lunch at our house, the cousins went to Gardner Village for Wee Witches Weekend. They got to dress up in their costumes. On Saturday, CJ took Daddy to hunt for pumpkins with the Stahle's. Busy weekend!

We are for sure in a toddler bed!

2009-09-17T09:13:00.000-07:00

Clara got lucky and got to sleep in a twin size bed on the cruise. So when we came home, she wants a "big girl bed". We are on day 4 of this trail, and I think we have to keep her in it. Here are the videos why. Also are some pics of Clara and Carter. They are so cute together!

Video 1: The reason for the toddler bed

Video 2: 2 Minutes after the reason for the toddler bed video

Update

2009-09-03T20:26:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post a few pics of what we've been up to lately. A tea party for Suzy and "baby boy", trips to the park, playing with neighbor friend Ethan, hanging with Jessie-ca-ca pm Mondays, and meeting baby Sophia finally!

Licking the beater from oatmeal cookies

Such a big girl!

Loves the swing, but doesn't quite get the pumping thing yet

Aunt Suzy and Ella at the Tea Party

Trying to get into Nikki's toy box

Playing with Ethan and his dog Bear

Doesn't Nikki look great??? Way to go!

Baby Sophia

Hanging with the boys at the playground

Climbing to go down the slide

Hanging with Auntie

And of course a fun video. Dakota and Clara are really getting along great these days!

Blog Stalking

2009-08-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

Yes - I do it, I really do. Sometimes I don't mean to, but it is so fun who you can find! I wish however that I could remember how to get back to some people's blog.....guess I should just leave a comment and/or add them to my list!

Anyways, while surfing today, I found a friend of John's from high school that is an amazing photographer. She does some really neat stuff! It was also good to go through her posts and see how many friends of John and mine that she has taken pictures of.

She is giving away a free photography session. You should check her out! http://shanzphotoblog.blogspot.com/

Here are some pics to enjoy of Kansas and Mohawks!

Rehersal Dinner

Waiting for the ceremony Flirting with the bad boy (this young man was in time out)

Dancing with mom at the reception

Leaving the reception, completely exhausted

Opening presents the next morning, exhausting again

New Outfit, going through great grandma's purse

Silly face

And yes, she finally has enough hair to do a mohawk!

Sewing Bug

2009-07-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

Since I got my new sewing machine.....I've been a sewing maniac! Here are a few of the projects.

Skirt for CJ

Skirt for Lacey (Happy 1st Bday!)

And the coolest thing so far......a baby bedding set! I also made an organzier (you can hang it over the crib) which was so much fun. Thanks Nikki for letting me try out my new skills!

Now I have my quilt square of the month, a winter quilt, and Clara's big girl quilt to start working on!

4th of July

2009-07-07T21:01:00.001-07:00

Here are the pics from the 4th of July parade in Kaysville.....and a video

Making sure cousin Anna's beads are on right

With Poppa Blake

Trying to catch some candy with Ella and Grant

Love Missy Poodle

Lots of loves

We had a wonderful 4th. Hope you all did too!

Clara is OCD

2009-06-22T08:18:00.000-07:00

Last night, Clara went to bed at 7. Two and half hours later she finally fell asleep. That was because she was constantly organizing and reorganizing the toys and books in her bed. I think she is OCD. This morning, she started to do it again with a blanket, a hat, a piggy headband and a necklace.....

Guess she is my child ;)

Clara's New Chair

2009-05-21T14:17:00.001-07:00

Clara's friend has a chair, and she loved it, so I thought I would find her one! I got the chair and the ottoman from jcpenny.com. Clara could not wait till I got it out of the box. She was trying to get in it while I was trying to put the feet. Needless to say, she loves it!

Travels

2009-05-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics from our cruise, and London and Paris. Enjoy!

Beware of Identity Theft This Easter....

2009-04-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Seriously.....Watch OUT!

HAPPY EASTER!

The Bunnies are Coming

2009-04-07T07:09:00.000-07:00

Here is the bunny runner.....do you think they need eyes or whiskers or both? Or leave it? I was thinking about putting blue buttons for eyes at least. Vote on the right what you think I should do!

The front

Upclose bunny

The back --Really like the scrapy backs!

Crafty Mom

2009-04-01T16:19:00.000-07:00

So I've been busy making Baby Carter a quilt, and also a bunny table runner.....well the quilt is done (pics to follow) and I just need to bind the bunny runner. I'm pretty proud of myself...I've used my new quilting tips and made the best, square quilt ever! Pics of bunnies to come soon!

The Finished Quilt

The Back -- I'm really liking the scrappy back look

It's Quilted with Stars and Loops

A close up of the front

Slideshows galore

2009-03-30T09:35:00.000-07:00

I love doing the "Photo of the Day" with Clara because I have so many pics that I would like to share. Clara is getting bigger by the minute. I swear she is cutting at least 3 teeth right now, and handling them like a champ. Here are some of the highlights:

We went to the Tracy Aviary and "Sang with the Birds" in the Chase Mill. Clara got to go to the Children's Museum with Daddy and some friends while Mommy went to a Miss Utah meeting (yeah for pageant season!). There are some nakey butt pics, but they are so cute. There's your warning. Laura and I took a cake decorating class. We had lots of fun and can't wait to make cakes for our little ones. The video is of Clara at Jason's Deli, saying please.

We are doing well. We are getting ready to go to California and on our cruise!! Hope all is well with everyone out there in blogging world!

Some videos and pics

2009-03-17T10:06:00.000-07:00

Random assortment of the last couple of weeks.....

Model Child

2009-03-05T20:30:00.000-08:00

Clara has been a model lately. Not only for Royal Spice Boutique, but also stood in for a few pics with Baby Carter. Clara has been walking so fast every where now. Watch out world! Here she comes!

Check out Royal Spice! They have really cute shirts and jewelry, and soon shoes!

And many people have said who have seen these pics: How cute, she's putting his binki in. WRONG, she is taking it out! If you want to see the rest of baby Carter's adorable pics, go to the Bradford's Blog.

Valentine's Day

2009-02-23T12:17:00.000-08:00

Laura and I made the boys Vday dinner.....correction, Laura made dinner and I decorated. We had a lot of fun. Clara and Carter went on their first date. Oh my! Enjoy the pics....

Clara Slideshow

2009-02-17T11:21:00.000-08:00

I have decided to turn all of my posts from last year into a book. This is kind of a cheater way of doing a scrapbook for Clara's first year. This is to explain the lack of posting lately. And I want to thank John for posting the cruise pics.

And for the next year for Clara, I am doing a "Photo of the Day" book. I have seen some friends and family doing this. I think it will a great way to see how much she will change in this next year.

You will probably will be seeing more slideshows of pictures of Clara. Enjoy!

Independence of the Seas January 24th-February 1st 2009

2009-02-07T06:24:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Johns birthday the only way we know how, onboard the independence of the seas with some great friends. We went to the Eastern Caribbean with stops at Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, St. Thomas (St. John), and Labadee (haiti). Here are some pictures from our cruise.

Outside of Puerto Rico

Sailaway at St. Thomas

First Formal Night Dinner

Mark And Kandice

The Dickamore's Treated us to dinner at Chops steakhouse in Puerto Rico at Sunset

Trunk Bay, St. John

Bring alittle Utah to the Caribbean

St. John

Flowrider on the ship

St. Maarten

Clara is a one year old!

2009-02-03T08:23:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how fast time has flown since Clara has come into our lives. She is such a wonderful person. I can't wait to get to know her as she gets older. She's not quite walking on her own yet. Still lacking a little in the hair department. But she is so smart!

We had a birthday party for her the Thursday before the 25th because John and I went on a cruise for his birthday. We had lots of friends and family over to celebrate. Of course, it was an Elmo themed birthday. Clara is one lucky girl to have so many friends and family already!

Thanks for celebrating with us!

Look how big I am!

2009-01-21T06:23:00.000-08:00

I used Clara's old car seat the other day. She looked so big in it! And now she thinks it is something to play in. What a turkey!

U of U Parade

2009-01-21T06:14:00.001-08:00

Here are the pictures from University of Utah Parade that we went to last Friday. They held the parade because the football team beat Alabama in the Sugar Bowl. The Utes ended up second in the AP poll. Way to go!

Walking up the capital hill. Clara did not want to ride in her stroller, so John made a makeshift carrier
This picture has the Ute's kicker Louie Sakoda #35

Blake's Birthday Party

2009-01-19T14:27:00.001-08:00

On Saturday, Clara and I went to Spanish Fork to go to my cousin's son, Blake's, first birthday party. The last time we saw them was a year ago, just a little bit after Blake and Clara were born. I can't believe how time flies! Blake is such a good walker. His mom, Amanda, made an amzing lion cake. I was so impressed! Hopefully we will be able to get together more with them this year.

CJ would get on Blake's new Vroom Vroom and Blake pushed CJ around, it was so cute!

Another classic face!

Clara and Blake "sharing" his new presents

This is how she started the car ride home......

This is how it ended. She had so much fun!

Silly Girl

2009-01-13T06:40:00.001-08:00

We were in the car the other day. I had put Clara's beanie on, but she decided she didn't want to wear it anymore, so I took it off and put it in her lap. Next thing I know, she had put the hat "on her head" herself. What a silly/smart/crazy girl! And I bet the other parents out there can agree....anything to keep their kid happy! Clara took great interest in a plastic cup for like 15 minutes. Who needs expensive kids toys! The other picture is of Missy teaching Clara how to beg.

The proof!

2009-01-09T05:27:00.000-08:00

Clara has been taking a few steps here and there, but yesterday she would take 10 -12 steps, and here is the video. Yeah!

Catch up!

2009-01-05T14:52:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a great new years! We had a few people over at the house. We played some games, the boys lit 8 year old fireworks out of a bucket in the backyard, and Clara slept through it all! John and I were thinking, we haven't stayed up for the actual stroke of midnight in a long time, so it was fun to actually do it this year!

Mom, Clara and Michon

No folks, this is not beer, this is Thomas Kemper Root Beer courtesy of the Dickamore's. Geez!

Clara and Madi

Oh, did I mention......GO UTES! They beat the Alabama Crimson Tide for those readers who aren't in state. BCS BUSTERS! We hope they get a final ranking of 1 or 2, but we will have to see!

We are a Utah Family Sir! And live in West Jordan!

Mom and Clara, with her new hoodie from the Dillard's sale....yall missed a good one on New Years Day!

I hope your new years resolutions aren't already broken, and that we are able to get together many times this coming year. Thanks for being the friends and family that you are --- we couldn't do this without you!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-27T06:55:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful christmas! Clara got a lot of new fun toys and lots of books to add to her library. We spent christmas eve with my mom and Blake, and then christmas day with my dad and joy and John's parents. I will be posting probably a lot of videos for my grandparents, but not a lot of pictures....but they are so cute! Clara had to look at every present and examine them carefully before moving on to the next one. We hope you all had a merry christmas, and we are looking forward to a happy new year!

This was on christmas eve eve. Clara saw this hat and just had to have it! She loves to wear it! (and it was on sale, yeah!)
I set this blanket out for Clara, but who gets on it? Dakota! Plus they are sharing Dakota's toy, gross!

I took this video today (12/27). It is Clara in her new PJ's and playing with her toy from her Great Aunt.

{I will post actual christmas videos once we get our camera from the Armstrong's.}

We escaped the snow!

2008-12-23T10:41:00.000-08:00

Well, at least the one of the storms. We went down to St. George and Las Vegas with the Dickamore's and the Davis'. It wasn't really warm down south, but at least we didn't get snowed on. It was really weird to see snow in St. George though. Friday we hung around St. George and had a honeybaked ham dinner (see pics below...) We did a little shoppiung there. The next day we went down to Las Vegas. We shopped at the Premium Outlets, which by the way, if you haven't been there in awhile, they are awesome! We had dinner at the Paris buffet that night. Can you say "crablegs"? I can't believe how much John can eat of those things! Then on our way home on Sunday we of course had to stop at BW3's. If you like buffalo wings, then you need to go! We are glad to be home, but wish the snow would stop. I think we have enough for a white christmas now! Happy holidays!

CJ getting ready to eat!

Mom and Dad at our HoneyBaked Ham Feast

Clara watching her christmas movie while we ate dinner.

The bellies after the meal.

Clara loves her toys!

Uncle Chris helping CJ to walk, she is soooooo close!

At the Mirage. Did you know they got rid of the tigers in the front of the Mirage? I was so disappointed!

Mom and Clara at BW3's -- what kind of face is that? Oh yeah, it's "Mom, my taste buds have expanded and I don't like bananas or gold fishes anymore."

Ready to come home

Music Class

2008-12-13T19:22:00.000-08:00

We have been going to music class the last two weeks with Annabelle, Tyler and Lacey (and Regan and Jenny of course!). Clara loves music and loves to move. She gets right in the group with the big kids and bangs on the drum, steals noise makers from other kids and moms, and shakes her jingle bells! Happy Holidays!Clara and Annabelle Clara and Annabelle with the big kids around the drum Clara and Annabelle beating the drum At the end of the class, the kids get the chance to play on the musical instrument. Clara pushes her up in to the front.
Clara and Annabelle stay as long as they can with the musical instrument

Clara is a big helper!

2008-12-08T17:18:00.000-08:00

She wanted to help mom roll all the socks.. What a great helper

Turkey Day

2008-12-03T15:55:00.000-08:00

We had a great Turkey Day. Long, but fun! We got to get all of the girl cousins born this year all together for the first time. Here are some pics of the fun day! We also got family pictures and girl cousins pictures that I will post once we get them.

10 Months!

2008-11-26T21:45:00.000-08:00

Soon, this blog will be saying, ONE YEAR! I can't believe how fast time has been flying. I feel so blessed to have Clara in my life. We are still at two teeth, although I think the top ones may be coming in. How do I know? The tears, the ferocious rubbing of gums, and runny nose.....the things that I've learned from being a mom! Walking is close, but she doesn't have the confidence yet to do it herself. Clara can walk one hand assisted though. Soon.... Here are a couple of cute pics. Clara likes taking pictures and seeing herself on the camera afterwards. Thanks daddy for taking them of her! Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow! I hope you all have a blessed day!

Clara's Christmas Present

2008-11-20T08:21:00.001-08:00

I'm trying to be crafty and make a toy house made out of fabric for Clara for Christmas. My mom made me one when I was little. So it is cut out, but now I need to start assembling it. I figure if I don't make Christmas, I luckily have her birthday, which is a month later! We shall see! The first picture is the outside of the house, the second is the inside.

Hairbows and Accessories!

2008-11-14T08:23:00.000-08:00

I was looking to purchase some new headbands and bows for Clara when a high school classmate emailed me. I started a Davis High Class of 2000 blog and Terre emailed me to have post put up about her business, "The Crafty Moms". It was perfect timing! I am so excited that I have found someone that sells the headbands. Clara really needs to wear them because of her lack of hair! Check her out! http://www.thecraftymoms.blogspot.com/

Snow and Swimming.....

2008-11-10T08:54:00.000-08:00

We had our first real snow last week, and what does Mom and Clara do? Go swimming! We had a lot of fun. Thank goodness for indoor pools! Bring on the snow! Daddy and Clara looking at the snow

The kids

Big Kiddos

I don't like the water on my face!

Look at how big I'm getting!

The Family!

2008-11-01T21:08:00.001-07:00

Cat Lady, Kitty Cat, and the Pumpkin! Happy Halloween!

PS I'm keeping up the Halloween background up a little longer. I am disgusted that the Walmart already has Christmas music and decorations in their store. We still have Thanksgiving people!

PPS Did you remember to set your clocks back?

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T08:07:00.000-07:00

Our Halloween actually started yesterday! We got to hang out with Grandma Armstrong at her school. We went on a parade around the school and got to meet all of her fun students. We then went to Grandma Wincherster's house and carved pumpkins. Clara also loved chomping on a carrot. Gotta love teething! Clara is getting really good at throwing the ball for Missy Poodle. The video is a little long, but it is hillarious!

I also want to tell my husband that I love him and that I can't believe 10 years have gone by! They have been wonderful and there are many more years to come! Happy 10 year "dating"anniversary yesterday~

At the Parade

Getting her first sewing lesson

Mommy and baby

I will add post more pics from Halloween activies that go on tonight later!

9 Months...

2008-10-27T20:04:00.000-07:00

.....plus a few days! Clara Jean has made it to 9 months. This month has been very busy for Clara. She started to crawl at the beginning of the month and is now pulling up and is ready to walk. She cut her first tooth (finally) this week. We have had play dates with Annabelle, Lacey and Tyler. We went to California. We went to Gardner village and it was so picturesque. Auntie Linda came out this weekend for a visit. We went to the Body World Exhibit. Clara is one busy little girl! She is also learning to use to potty. She wants to grow up so fast! Here are some pics of our busy month. We can't wait for Halloween to finish this month off!

A little overdue

2008-10-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

Clara and I went to the zoo a few weeks ago. These pics are overdue because I was waiting to get the video from my friend to put with it.....it's freaking hillarious! Clara wanted to stay awake so bad, but she just couldn't. I tried to lay her back in the stroller, but she wouldn't let me. I love this girl!

And this is how she ended up! All I could do was laugh!

At least we are getting some hair on that cute head...

I've been tagged, officially

2008-10-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

Well Jenn Locke actually put my name in a tag, so I guess I will do it!

10 years ago I...
1. officially started dating John (Oct. 30th actually)
2. was raising guide dogs with my family
3. was waiting to turn 16 as I was the last junior to get a drivers license
4. was in the great shape by being on drill team
5. could only dream about the wonderful life I have now!

5 Things on today's "to do" list...
1. Clean the house for our play date
2. Make our cruise photo book of the cruise we got back from almost 2 months ago (whoops!)
3. Attempt to contemplate going to the gym
4. Finish the laundry
5. Work on becoming a millionaire (see next question)

5 things I would do if I were a millionaire...
1. Pay off my houses
2. Go on a Mediterranean cruise
3. Build my dream house
4. Put some away for a rainy day
5. Buy Clara anything she wanted!

5 places I have lived...
1. San Bernadino, CA
2. Farmington, UT
3. Petaluma, CA
4. Kaysville, UT
5. San Rafael, CA
6. Holladay, UT
7. West Jordan, UT (<-----the trend got messed up here)

5 jobs I have had....
1. Sales Associate Victoria's Secret
2. Market Research Asst. Project Manager
3. Claims Adjuster for Progressive
4. Real Estate Agent -- currently more like assistant to John as needed
5. Mom --the best one yet!

I tag...Jenny Noall, Nikki Davis, Kesha Parker, Laura Miller, and Laura Bradford

Rules: Each player answers the question themselves. At the end of the post the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blog and leaves them a comment letting them know that they've been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person that tagged you know when you've answered the questions on your blog.

I Left my Heart In San Francisco

2008-10-07T17:10:00.000-07:00

John, Clara and I took a trip to Northern Cali to see my grandparents and my aunt. I got to take Clara to the Lagoon where I went as a kid, and fed the birds. Clara got to spend Sunday with them while John and I went to the 49ers game. It was the first professional football game we have been to. We had amazing seats! Right at the end zone. During one play in the second quarter, a ball was thrown right at us. John was holding his camera, and actually swatted the ball. The lady next to us got the ball. If only John wasn't protecting his camera......It was all neat because they were retiring Steve Young's jersey. From what I understand, they are also going to be tearing down Candlestick park in a few years, so I am glad that we got to go there.

The next day, we spent sightseeing at Marin Headlands (right next to the Golden Gate Bridge) and Fisherman's Wharf at Pier 39. Clara liked the sea lions, although I am not sure she exactly got what they were. Before heading home, we had an early dinner at Applebee's with my grandparents. It is their favorite restaurant. Thanks for having us! We really enjoyed our visit!

PS Clara is really getting good at pulling up, and will rock once she gets on her hands and knees.....uh oh.....crawling for sure by Halloween, maybe even walking! For more pics, check out Facebook....

Feeding the birds

The opening of the 49er Game

Steve Young and his teammates at half time

At Marin Headlands in the morning

Pier 39 and the famous Sea Lions

My grandparents

My favorite pic - other side of the bridge, in the afternoon, with the fog rolling in....

I love San Fran

I couldn't believe my eyes!

2008-10-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

John and I invested in a video monitor. I am so glad that we did. The way our house has the master on the main, and the baby's room upstairs, it made me feel more comfortable to see Clara instead of just hearing her. Well today, I saw something in the monitor that I couldn't believe. She was sitting in her bed! Clara has been able to sit by herself since July, but only after I put her that way. So I grabbed the camera and headed up stairs. I was in for even a bigger surprise when I got to her room and Clara was pulling her self up. Clara is getting so big! We are so proud of her.

SYTYCD

2008-09-23T22:16:00.000-07:00

Jessica, John and I went to So You Think You Can Dance - the concert tonight. It was blast! We had a great time. Thanks Jessica and Josette for getting us the tickets. I really enjoyed the "mattress" dance. John's favorite is the garden....hence the music on the blog. The playlist includes songs from SYTYCD season 4. We'll keep it on for a few days--just enough time to get them stuck in your head! "Four Real" - explained tonight that it means not only Season 4, but a combination of things that make the show unique, and can be applied to all aspects of life. John took the picture, I promise, he was there!

The Garden - Courtney and Gev

The Mattress - Kherington and Twitch

The Utah Locals - Gev and Chelsie

Escaped Convicts - Twich and Kherington

Flow Rider "Best of the Best"

2008-09-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

Crusin'

2008-09-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing time on our cruise. Clara did so well. She stuck pretty much to her schedule as far as naps and eating (that girl has got to eat!). Here are a couple of slide shows of the pictures. We had so many! Clara was the hit of the ship. She was known as the girl with the headbands. Thanks Michon for the cute flowers!

Muster Drill

Clara Pictures

Around the Ship

Ports of Call