The Salem Browns

Annabelle Jeanne Brown

2010-01-27T16:05:00.001-08:00

Well, a lot has happened since I posted last..which is to be expected since I haven't posted anything since what, October!! Seriously. But the most exciting would have to be the birth of our first little girl, Annabelle Jeanne. She was born on the 15th of January at 5:53 AM and weighed in at 9lb 9oz and 21 inches long. She was born with the same cute cheeks as her brothers and a full head of hair. She was unique in that she has an extra finger on her left hand. It wasn't attached by bone to her hand so they just tied it off to cut off the blood supply and eventually it will just fall off. Pretty interesting. My sister Kathryn commented that she will have something fun and interesting to say when she plays 2 truths and a lie!! Kind-a funny. We are loving her and the addition she has made to our family. Jackson has really taken to her and loves to hold her and puts his finger in her mouth to "feed" her. Logan points to her, esp when she cries but is still a bit unsure about her.
Things are going well so far but right now she is pretty easy. I am sure things will get a bit more difficult as she gets older and requires more attention. But for now, I am enjoying each moment, especially those that I get alone with her during the night. I appreciate the family and friends around me that have been so supportive and helpful during this time of transition. Not to mention an amazing husband who knows how to take over and give me a break. I feel very blessed.
Here are a few pictures and I am sure there will be many more to come!! Enjoy!!

Moments

2009-10-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

Here are a few moments we caught on camera in the past little while. I think having kids has made me appreciate all the little things that just make me smile.

I love this picture of the boys. It seriously captures what life is to them right now. They are having so much fun together and just enjoying the simple things of life. I love it!!

As a parent, sometimes we have to sacrifice some of those things that we hold precious....like sleep for instance. But for me, those sacrifices seem so small, esp when I get to wake up to this everyday!!
Jackson and Logan love movies and Wayne is exposing them to some great ones already!! This particular morning, Jackson sat down and then of course, Logan soon follows. This is a constant lately. It is fun though because you can see the love and admiration that is already growing between them. So fun.
I LOVE this picture because I think it captures a lot about our family.
We like being a little crazy sometimes
Wayne loves nothing more than his two boys (and soon to be little girl)
We love and appreciate our good friends (this was taken at our good friend Maylie's carnival themed birthday party)
We LOVE life and try to live to its fullest

Last but certainly not least our kids have taught me that we just need to be ourselves and don't be afraid to have fun!!
PS You can't really hear the music because the door to the car was closed but it is still fun to watch them!!

Yet another catch-up!!!!

2009-09-23T22:20:00.000-07:00

I am always playing catch up......seriously. You would think I would learn after awhile that I just need to do it and not have it on my list of things to do....for like 4 months. Wow. I guess I have become more of a facebook girl and not so much a blogger. Not because I don't want to blog but because it is just easier. Anyway, enough of my excuses.
We are doing really well. Wayne is still working for the ambulance company here in Salem but he has added another job to his work load. He now works as an ER tech at the hospital. He enjoys it but he doesn't think that he will last much longer as really he is meant to be a firefighter/paramedic. But that is a whole different subject!! We are still here in Salem....we hope to move in the future but it looks like it is going to be a couple of years and not a couple of months, as we hoped. So is life though.
So our new little one is a mover and a shaker to say the least. It is funny though.....I like it because it reminds me that she is still there and that she is doing alright. That is right. We are having our first girl. CRAZY. I almost didn't believe it when we found out but we are excited to add another sweet spirit to our home. She is due to arrive on January 13th.
Jackson is 21/2 and growing up before our eyes. We are in the process of potty training and he is catching on pretty well. A tub of different animals has been our life saver though. He gets a small one when he goes pee and a big one if he goes poop....he loves to share this information with everyone that he sees as well as letting them get a peek at his underware. He is very proud. Jackson is very inquisitive and is always asking questions....almost to the point that it is almost annoying. Especially when he asks the same ones over and over again. But at the same time, it is fun to see him learning and discovering new things. He also started a preschool/play group once a week with 5 boys from the ward. He is enjoying himself, esp because he is going to "school" like the other big kids. Very fun kid with tons of personality and wit.
Logan is 16 months and is also growing before our eyes. He is honestly a such a big kid......I get asked a lot if Jackson and him are twins, just because they are similar is size. Logan is still learning how to get around but he sure does like to "do" or try to do everything his brother is doing. He loves to point and grunt at things and doesn't say much to our understanding but he sure makes a ton of different sounds. It is pretty funny. I think one of these days he is just going to start talking in full sentences!!
So, here are a few things we have done in the last little bit....at least the ones I was able to get pictures of!!!

We went camping with a few families from the ward at Silver Creek Falls and had a great time

My oldest nephew Zack, left for BYU in August. Crazy that he is old enough to be away at school

We got a trailer for our bikes and the boys have loved it....

Zoo trip with family while Patti was visiting....very fun and obviously, very tiring.

ROCK ON JACKSON!!!!!!
We went to the fair while Jeff and his family were here....I hadn't been in years. Jackson loved going on the few rides that he could, esp the roller coaster with his Dad. Good times.

Wayne's Dad is leveling out his back yard to create his ultimate yard and of course ALL of the boys had to help in the process. The looks on the little boys faces as they played around with the excavator were seriously priceless.

Hopefully I will post before the next 4 months have passed us by!!!

2 month catch up!!!!

2009-05-13T14:18:00.000-07:00

I know, I know.....it has been FOREVER since I have posted anything. We are alive I promise. We have moved since I last posted. We decided that it was time to get an apartment here in Salem since the out of state job wasn't happening as fast as we would of liked it to. So, here we are. We love our new place and although it was so great living with Grandma P after she returned home, it has been so nice to pull out my stuff and have a place that is ours.
Our boys are growing up fast. Jackson is almost 2 1/2 and is such a busy body. His latest loves are dancing (he constantly is dancing and wanting us to dance with him) "what are you doing Mom", "driving" the car, and of course, being such a helper to his parents. He is quite the talker as well and is quite the charmer already. He so enjoys saying hi to people and interacting with kids. I wonder where he got that from....?!!!
Logan will be a year old next week!!!! Wow. I can't hardly believe it!!! He is such a good little guy. He loves throwing balls or anything else for that matter and already has quite the arm. He LOVES his older brother of course. He just smiles and laughs whenever he can get Jackson's attention. He is taking steps, but not fully walking yet, which I know he loves as well because of that independence thing. He is a pretty big kid and am interested to know what his percentages are when we go to the Dr. next week. He is definately bigger than Jackson was at 1 year.
Wayne and I are doing well. Wayne is still working random hours at Rural Metro and spending a lot of time on the internet looking for jobs, places to live etc. I am getting settled, still wanting a few other things for the place, but like I said, it has been fun to get out my things that I haven't really used in almost 2 years.
I am starting up running again......slowly but surely!!! I sure do miss it though. I just got a calling in the ward as a primary teacher (8-9 year olds) which I am very excited about.
Here are a bunch of pictures from the past couple of months........hope you all are doing great!!!

Drift Creek Falls was a such a blast.....the boys were pretty tired by the time we finished

Jackson and Logan LOVE helping out around the house, esp if it is with Dad. Being with Dad really is more fun!!!

We sure enjoyed out Easter this year. We went to a couple of Easter egg hunts and Jackson was in heaven. We spent Easter day with my sister Kathryn's family. It is so nice to live close so that we can spend the holidays together. Love you!!!

We love being outside and we would go to the park everyday if the weather would allow!!! Logan loves the swings lately and sometimes he practically falls asleep as I am pushing him. So fun. We also went and fed the ducks a little bit ago and it was an interesting experience to say the least. I couldn't believe how frisky some of those ducks were......like we had to shew them away because they were getting too close. One of them bit Jackson's finger when he didn't even have any bread in it. I think I may wait awhile til we go back.

For Mothers day, after church we went on a drive to Silver Creek Falls. It was raining a bit but it was still enjoyable and the boys didn't seem to mind. Really, it just felt good to be outside.

Overall, it has been a great couple of months and we feel so blessed to be in the situation that we are in and look forward to the future that is ahead of us. We feel so lucky to be surrounded by such great friends and family and appreciate your encouragement and support. Love you!!!

Is it spring yet?!!!

2009-03-16T21:57:00.000-07:00

It is pretty cold and wet here in Oregon these days but we do get a couple glimpses of the sun once in awhile. We take advantage of these days and spend as much of the day outside that we possibly can. We can't wait for SPRING!!!!!

The boys are playing together so much more lately. Jackson is enjoying being an older brother to Logan and likes to bring him toys and make him laugh. Those of you that know Jackson know that he loves to do "strong man" He was doing it for Logan and he was just laughing and laughing....it was so fun to watch. I know this stage of them getting along so well wont last forever, but for now
I am LOVING it.

More happenings......

2009-03-11T22:11:00.000-07:00

Wayne is about to finish up his quarter at school and he has enjoyed his classes for the most part. They have been a bit more time consuming than he would of liked. He did take a photography class that he really enjoyed and I wanted to post some of the pictures that he took for his specific assignments. I know that I am a bit biased but I think they are pretty cool. Here are a few.....

In other news......
We have been wanting to move for a few months now but things haven't been moving as fast as we would of liked. We are still wanting a change in location but it looks like we are going to be Oregonians for at least the time being. Yea!!!

Here in the, hot tub......

2009-01-31T23:01:00.000-08:00

We were able to go to G&G Browns house the other night and go in their hot tub. We hadn't ever taken the boys in with us before but they both seemed to enjoy themselves. The bubbles were a big hit of course.

I thought of a couple of random things as I was sitting in the hot tub. First of all, I honestly love the feeling of having my body totally warm but my face cold because of fresh air......maybe because it reminds me of camping. I also thought of the SNL skit....has anyone seen that one with Drew Barrymore and maybe Will Ferrell? Pretty funny.

Family outing

2009-01-14T22:19:00.000-08:00

I really am an Oregonian through and through.

I don't run when it starts to rain, I usually walk and get wet.

I don't mind cloudy days.....

I love the Oregon coast. It is freezing and windy and not usually warm, but I still love it. It is so beautiful, refreshing, and very relaxing.

We took a day trip to Lincoln City this past week which was really great. We really didn't do anything spectacular, it was amazing to just be together.

Jackson and Wayne had a blast chasing the tide. It was so fun to watch.

Cute little Logan at 7 months. He really is such a great baby. When I look at him, I think that maybe this is what my Dad looked like as a baby. It is a sweet reminder.

My sweet husband stopped to let me indulge a bit on some salt water taffy. I don't really love it but I like it enough to get some once in awhile.

Jackson loved it though.....imagine that

2009-01-14T22:15:00.000-08:00

Just want to put a little shout out for the Knapp's new little one.
Maxwell Ralph Knapp

2009-01-05T22:15:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas with my family this year. It was a bit crazy at times but fun none the less. We had a house full to say the least. But I was reminded that family really is everything and it was just great to all be together.
We are still doing well here. As many of you know, Wayne had a change in jobs recently but is liking working as a paramedic for the ambulance company. I am keeping busy at home with the boys who are growing up so fast I can hardly stand it. We are still here with my Mom for the time being which has been so nice. We are not sure what our plans are at this point....things are up in the air. We may be relocating all together.....maybe to Flagstaff, AZ? We shall see.

Sure love all of you and hope you enjoyed your holidays!!!

Let it SNOW

2008-12-15T20:48:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun in the snow today. Jackson was LOVING life, to say the least. We didn't have a sled so we made one from a garbage can lid and a rope. It was quite a show, let me tell you. The snow really is beautiful but I do have to say that it has put a damper on my shopping schedule!!! We live between two big hills in the county, so when it snows they don't sand out here and it is hard to get around. I am sure I will get it done but just not as soon as I would of liked. So for now, we will enjoy the scenery!!!

Happenings........

2008-12-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

Just a couple of fun pictures from this past week

Train ride

2008-12-03T22:32:00.000-08:00

We were able to ride the train to Seattle last weekend to visit my sister and her family. We had such a good time....I really think that we are going to consider taking the train more often. The kids did really well. They don't have to be strapped to car seats and can move around as they want, whenever they want. HEAVEN!!! We were lucky enough to pay for 2 seats but get 4, which was so nice. Jackson watched movies, made friends with random people, and loved looking out the windows.
We had a great time together....we went to the aquarium, tons of parks, shopping, walked the pier, and Carol and I got out to see Twilight together which was so nice. Thank you guys!!!!
We had a great Thanksgiving as well.....pretty low key at the Brown's house. These pictures are of Jackson "helping" Grandma make pies. It was quite a sight to see......Jackson with a little apron on, making his own little apple pie. Very fun.

We have so much to be thankful for....especially friends and family like you that are so supportive of us. Love you all!!!

Get candy, get candy, get candy....

2008-11-14T15:35:00.000-08:00

Jackson was a pirate for Halloween and didn't get the whole concept at first until he saw that people were giving free candy wherever he went. He was in HEAVEN. We went to the trunk or treat at our church and after a few trunks, he sat down in the middle of the parking lot to examine his goods. We had a good laugh. After about 30 minutes of trunk or treating, we went over to Aunt Debi's house and walked around her neighborhood with Maylie. Again, very short and sweet but very fun. They were both pretty funny as they just made themselves right at home with other people, wanting to go in their house and everything.

And now, as you can see, he is loving his 4 pieces of candy a day!!!!!

Logan is growing up so fast. I can't believe he is almost 6 months old. We started the rice cereal, which he is a big fan of. Jackson always wants bites as well which is pretty disgusting in my opinion. Logan is quite the "talker" as well. His noises capture peoples attention wherever we go. I swear his squeeling is so high in pitch, he is going to break a window.

2008-10-24T23:39:00.000-07:00

I feel like there is so much to report on. I really need to update this more often. Here are a few activities that we have been up to.

First, we went on the Portland tram the other day. I takes you right up to OHSU with a breath taking view.

We also went to the pumpkin patch the other night, which was fun. Oddly enough, we actually didn't get any pumpkins. We were merely going for the photo opt and to do something festive. We thought we might get a pumpkin cheaper at WINCO. We are cheap, what can I say. We went with our friends, the Knapps. Jackson is obsessed with Maylie. Rightfully so. She is adorable. Seriously, when we get in the car to go anywhere he says these words. "Maylie, Maylie, Maylie". He just can't get enough of her.

We were also able to go to the temple and walk around a bit. It seriously is so beautiful and I am reminded of how grateful I am for my family and all the things that I have been blessed with.

We are alive and well...

2008-10-06T23:00:00.000-07:00

I really am such a slacker...I have thought about posting many nights but get caught up in other things. You know how it goes. Unfortunately, there is life outside the blogging world, dang it.
This month has been a busy one for us. My Mom got home from Brazil and is doing so well. She is now visiting family in Utah, Arizona, and California and having a great time I am sure. Wayne's brother Phillip also came home from his mission this month but has already gone back to Italy for a vacation with part of the Brown clan (totally jealous). He is going to hang around and will be back to Oregon State starting in January.
Before Phillip left to go back to Italy, he and Wayne went to North Fork and did a little bridge/cliff jumping. We replaced our camera with one that is waterproof and Wayne is loving it. Here are a few pics/video from their trip.

Our boys are growing up before our eyes. Jackson is saying so much more these days and is totally into jumping off of things. He definitely pushes his limits though and has already had a sprained ankle!!! Crazy huh. But he is a Brown boy so I wouldn't expect anything less. Logan is such a sweet boy. He is smiling so much and starting hold and play with toys. I love this stage as he is interacting so much more with us as well as tracking and starting to be aware of his surroundings.

Hope all is well with all of you!!!

She is HOME!!!!

2008-09-06T20:34:00.000-07:00

Well, as many of you know, my Mom is home from her mission. Yea!!!! She isn't in Oregon yet as she flew into Utah yesterday but she will be here on the 12th. I wanted to post that she is going to be reporting about her mission in 2nd ward on Sunday the 14th at 8:30 AM. If you want to come, you are more than welcome to. We are going to have an open house the next weekend most likely so if you can't make it to the sacrament meeting, you can see her the next weekend. I will post more about that as soon as we have the details. We are so excited to have her home!!!!
As far as our plans, we are going to be staying with her for a few months as we are still house hunting/saving for a down payment etc. It will be fun to all be together for a bit as I know Mom is anxious to spend time with Jackson and Logan. Love you Mom!!!

Adventures.....

2008-08-19T22:47:00.000-07:00

So this past week, we took the kids camping for the first time. I was so impressed by how well they did. Logan slept like a log and Jackson woke up in the middle of the night and was taken back that he was sleeping next to his parents (and obviously in new surroundings) so he wanted to explore. But finally his eyes closed and we had a good night. The See-doo worked great (thank you Wayne) and everyone had a blast. We went with our friends, David and Sara Myers and then my sister and family came up for a day. I wish we had pictures to share but my nephew thought it would be fun to throw our camera into the water so right now, we are without one. Sad huh. Hopefully Costco will uphold their great return policy and give us another one. We will see.
Other news this week. My Mom has a release date!!! We are so excited. She comes home on the 12th of September. We are so proud of her and all that she has done. What an amazing woman to serve a mission by herself in a foreign country. I mean, come on now. What a lady.
What else. Oh yea. On Sunday the fire alarm went off at church. I was in the RS room and didn't think much of it (because we couldn't smell smoke of course!!) For the next 5 minutes it kept going off and on. Didn't think much of it. Then Logan had a poopy diaper so I go out in the hall and there is Wayne holding Jackson with the Stake Presidency surrounding them. You guessed it. Jackson was the one who pulled the alarm. Our son set off the alarm in the arms of a fireman.

A Great Week

2008-08-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

One of the benefits of Wayne's schedule is that he only works every third day. We are able to do so much more as a family. Here are a few things that we have been up to.
Wayne has been changing the clutch on his car and Jackson has LOVED hanging out with him and "helping" him out. He so loves his Daddy. I got a good kick watching them together.

We have also been getting the house ready for my Mom to return in a month or so and one of the projects has been to pressure wash the roof. I walked outside and this is what I saw......

Ya, that is what I said. I couldn't believe he was letting him climb up the ladder. What a fearless little guy.....just like his Dad.
We were able to go to the Aquarium in Newport for an afternoon, which was totally fun. Jackson loved all the sharks. He stood there forever just watching and pointing. I loved it.

We have been wanting to take the kids to a pool and our friend offered to take us as guests to Cambridge pool. The water was a bit cold but I think we may have to invest in a membership because Jackson LOVED it. I was totally surprised that he didn't mind going under the water. And then Wayne dove off the diving board and after he saw Dad doing it, he wanted to. So I took him out to the edge of the board and he didn't exactly jump but he fell into his Dads arms. What a kid.
And then we had the usuals....bathing, playing, sleeping and enjoying life together!!!

Hope you had a great week as well. We love you all!!!!

2008-07-26T22:03:00.001-07:00

Everyone is doing it, so why not join the fun!!
Post a memory that you have with any or all of us. It could be something recent or a long time ago, which ever you choose. Happy blogging!!!

Summer fun

2008-07-23T11:59:00.000-07:00

Here are our two beautiful boys. Jackson is 19 months and Logan is 2 months. Time is flyin by that is for sure.

Logan is so much fun and is growing up so fast. He is a pretty peaceful baby for the most part and doesn't mind his brother being a little rough on him.

Jackson is loving the summer. He loves the water and esp loves it in his face......crazy kid. This pic of him holding his stomach is so funny. We went to Wes Bennett Park where they have a few water fountains and he just loved watching the kids play. Wayne took him in the water and he loved it but I think he most enjoying being around kids and seeing what it was like being a big kid.

My HOT firefighter!!!

2008-07-17T13:04:00.000-07:00

Wayne graduated from the recruit academy and is officially working at station 10 (it is located on the street that GI Joes is on, off of Lancaster). He has been loving everything about it, especially the schedule. He works one 24 hour shift and then is off for 2 days. It is awesome. I know that some days I will hate the schedule because he really doesn't have much flexability with it (like having to work every third Sunday) but it definately has its purks.

Here are a few pics of the ceremony and Jackson loving the trucks.

Our last month continued.....

2008-06-28T12:28:00.000-07:00

Here goes for the rest of the month....
Logan Allan was blessed this past Sunday by his Dad. We were able to have some family in town for it which was so nice. My sister Kathryn, lives right outside of Salem and so her family came as well as my second sister Cheryl, and her family. Most of Wayne's family live elsewhere and so they took the opportunity to come home for a weekend and so we hung out with them as well. We went to the beach on Saturday, which was a lot of fun. And then that night, we hung out with my fam here at our place. We ate pizza and had a great time all together. It was crazy though, with so many kids running around. What are we going to do when ALL of the grandkids are here!! Wow.
After church on Sunday, both families gathered together for dinner at G and G Brown, which was fantastic. It was so nice to have both families hang out together.
Thank you so much for such a great weekend. We feel so blessed to belong to such great families and appreciate all the love and suppo rt they always give us!!

Our last month

2008-06-27T21:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been a huge slacker and haven't posted anything in the last month. I know you are all anxious to see pictures of Logan and I am sorry that it has taken so long to give you more!!! But I am going to highlight the past month as there are a few things that I want to share. So, here goes. At Logan's 2 week appointment, he had thrush and so they gave us this medicine that turned his mouth purple. We thought he looked like a gothic child or something. It was pretty funny.
June 11th....our 3rd anniversary. I feel so grateful for my sweet husband who treats me so well and is incredibly thoughtful. I love you Wayne. I couldn't ask for a better companion and friend.

Wayne is just about to finish up the recruit academy this next week with the Salem Fire Department. He has been really enjoying his time and is very happy with the new job. We find out next week where he will be stationed at for at least the next year. We are very excited.
We have also been house hunting as my Mom will be home soon from her mission.....I can't believe it. We aren't that picky about where but are very excited to find one to call our own. Jackson is so much fun lately....he is saying so much more and just loves life. Here are a few fun pics of him lately.

Logan Allan Brown

2008-05-22T22:09:00.000-07:00

Logan Allan Brown arrived Monday morning at 8:36. He weighed in at 9lb 2.5 ounces 21 inches long. He looks similar to Jackson with lots of dark hair and a cute round face. We couldn't be happier.

Official

2008-05-06T00:49:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official. Wayne got a job with the Salem Fire Department this past week as a firefighter/paramedic. We are here to stay!!! Congrats babe!!! We are so proud of you!!!

Gotta love Utah!!

2008-05-05T23:57:00.000-07:00

This past week we flew to Utah for David Myer's wedding in SLC. It was so nice to get away for a few days and see friends and family as well as be there for the wedding. Wayne and David were good friends growing up here in Salem in the Pringle Ward and David didn't know that we were coming, so it was a nice surprise. David has a brother that is working in Jerusalem right now and also surprised his family in the temple actually. What a special surprise that was for everyone.
We arrived Wednesday night and went out to dinner with some of my old roomates that I lived with in SLC. It was so great to see them and catch up as I haven't been the best at keeping tabs on everyone. Thank you so much girls for a great evening.....I just wish we could do it more often!!!
We totally enjoyed everything with the wedding festivities on Friday.....the sealing was really special and then the luncheon was great that afternoon. Art and Sierra (Wayne's brother and sister-in-law) took care of Jackson while we were in the temple which was so nice. That evening we went out to dinner with siblings as it was actually Wayne's 25th birthday, so we wanted to do something for him on his day. I gave him his presents before we left so he didn't have anything to open on his day......he was such a good sport about it all. Love you babe!!
Saturday we went to the Hogle Zoo which was awesome. Seriously, it was so fun and all the kids loved it. We got there early, which was nice because by the time we were on our way home, it was so crowded. But it was a very fun afternoon with Art and Sierra and Brandon and Michelle. Thanks guys.
Sunday after church we all took naps, which was awesome!! We had dinner with family again and then came back to hang out with my cousin, Trent and his family. Thank you so much Trent and Ashely for opening your home and being so good to us. It was great to see you!!!

Cirque Du Soleil

2008-04-11T16:26:00.000-07:00

For my birthday this year, Wayne got tickets for us to go to Portland to the Cirque Du Soleil. It seriously was amazing. I wish I could of taken pictures inside but it wasn't allowed. I know there are a lot of Cirque Du Soleil shows...this one was called Corteo and was performed in both English and French. We didn't follow the actual story line very well but the different performances were just incredible. It is one of those things you just have to see to completely appreciate. Thank you Wayne for such a fun night out. I love you!!!

Easter

2008-04-01T15:28:00.000-07:00

I know Easter was a couple of weeks ago, but I still wanted to post a few pictures from an Easter egg hunt we went to....
Jackson had a great time.....after he got one egg, he was completely content. I have a feeling that next year he wont feel the same.
Mollie Knapp offered some chocolate to Jackson and he became her best friend!! It was a fun day, even if Dad had to work and couldn't be there.

Tagged by Stacia

2008-03-31T21:24:00.000-07:00

A - Attached or Single: Very much so attached

B - Best Friend: Wayne

C - Cake or Pie: I would say pie.....classic apple with ice cream and pumpkin with cool whip!!

D - Day of choice: Any day that Wayne is home from work, which isn't always Saturdays.

E - Essential Item: This is tough.....crude clay for my thick, fine hair.

F - Favorite Color: green

G - Gummy Bears or Worms: Not a huge fan of either

H - Hometown: Good old Salem, Oregon

I - Indulgence(s): Hot long showers or a good book read (without interruptions) or a tasty treat to satisfy my sugar tooth.

J - January or July: I would have to say July but honestly, I love the change in seasons.

K - Kids: Jackson (15 months) and another boy on the way (due May 26th)

L - Life is incomplete without: Family, good friends, and the Gospel

M - Marriage Date: June 11th, 2005

N - Number of Siblings: 6....4 older sisters and 2 younger brothers

O - Oranges or Apples: Both- Fuji apples are my favorite but I will eat any apple that isn't soft....yuck. I love a good juicy orange. Fresh off the tree are definitely the best....one of the things I miss from my mission.

P - Phobias or Fears: I think I have a bit of claustrophobia....Wayne LOVES to tease and put blankets over my face to see how long I will last without yanking them off. I just don't like my face to be completely covered. Weird, I know.

Q - Quotes: "You have two ears and one mouth, use them accordingly"

R - Reason to smile: Being so blessed with a loving husband and a fantastic little guy

S - Season: Spring when everything is blossoming, and fall when the leaves change

T - Tag Three Friends: I will pick two....my sisters-in-law Megan and Sarah

U - Unknown fact(s) about me: My husband is 6 years younger than I and the second would be that I really like to fly fish. I worked at a resort in Arizona for a couple of summers and a co-worker taught me how. I just wish I could get away to do it more often.

V - Very favorite Store: I love a good deal so wherever I can get one of those and Old Navy. I think every other item in my closet is from there.

W - Worst habit: I have two that I can think of right off hand. My brother in law always makes fun of me because I say "I am sorry" too often. Like I say I am sorry for things that I have no control over or whatever. And another thing that I am constantly reminded of is talking too loud, esp on the phone.

X - X-ray or Ultrasound: Ultrasound.....hands down

Y - Your favorite food: Cheese......there is nothing like a good grilled cheese sandwich

Z - Zodiac: Pisces

Goodbye Grandpa

2008-03-10T22:16:00.000-07:00

Some sad news to report on.....Wayne's Grandpa died this weekend. He was living at a skilled facility and was slowly declining so we knew that it was only a matter of time. He died very peacefully though....pretty much he just fell asleep and never woke up.
We are certainly sad because we will miss him but we know that he is so happy now, being reunited with his loved ones. We love you Grandpa Buck!!!

2008-02-19T21:02:00.000-08:00

We get together at least once a week with some good friends of ours, the Knapp's. We have dinner or just hang out.......but it is a lot of fun because our kids are only a couple of months apart and they just love playing together. One of Jackson's favorite things to do lately is "play" the piano. Maylie wanted to join the fun and so we captured a few cute moments of them together.

2008-02-19T16:29:00.000-08:00

So, I really only told the first half of our trip to California. Our way home was quite an adventure to say the least. Wayne had to be back on Monday for the written part of the exam, so we were on the road again Sunday mid-morning. As we were about to leave, Wayne's Dad called to see if we had chains for the car as he had been watching the weather, and we were supposed to get a lot of snow. We did have chains, they were a bit loose but Wayne thought they would work. We left around 10ish as we weren't in any rush, not knowing what was ahead of us. Pretty much it started raining and then snowing, and it didn't let down, even when we got home to Salem, 21 hours later. Yes, I am not kidding. It was CRAZY. I wont bore you with the whole story but I will give you the highlights.
Yreka.....stopped for dinner and had to get new chains as ours weren't tight enough and they were required at this point because the roads were getting bad.
We didn't get far and a bad accident ahead had us stopped on the freeway for about 2 and a half hours.
Again, slow going as the roads were crazy......one chain broke so we pulled over to take that one off.
Got to Roseburg and it was pouring snow by now......we turned off our lights as we could see the roads better without them. Never thought I would say that.
Just past Roseburg, the other chain broke. Pretty scary not only pulling over but the roads were still crazy and cars/semis were all over....on and off the road.
Eugene to Salem......the freeway was a sheet of ice and Wayne says he has never been so scared driving.
We got to Salem around 6:30 AM and Wayne was able to have a couple hours of sleep before he had to be in Portland at 1:00 for his test.
I know I can't do the story justice but at this point, we just feel very lucky to of arrived home safely and without harm or accident. We know we were watched over and blessed in so many ways. Wayne did pass his written test so he is in the application process to find a job as a firefighter/paramedic. We are very excited.
Here are a few pictures as we stopped a couple of times to walk around when Jackson started acting up.

Our very short trip to California

2008-02-12T21:06:00.001-08:00

I have some updating to do.....imagine that. I honestly THINK about blogging all the time but I just don't take the time to do it. Maybe someday.....
As some of you know, Wayne finished his paramedic program this past December. But in order to actually work as a paramedic, he had to take a National practical exam as well as written exam. For some reason, in Oregon they only offer the practical exam twice a year and of course, he just missed the cut off. California on the other hand, offers the practical exam almost every month in different cities. Since it is the same exam in both states, why not take a little trip and getter' done!!!
Originally, he was going to go with some friends but at the last minute they decided to go early, which he couldn't do because of work. With a little arranging, Jackson and I packed and decided to join him.
Wayne had arranged to stay with my sister Carol and her family in Morgan Hill......right close to San Jose. We had a great time with them and the trip was worth it as Wayne passed the practical exam with flying colors. Yeah!!!!!!
Here are some pictures of Carol and Ryan's kids, Ava (5) and Dylan (almost 2). Love you guys!! Thanks again.

Another day in the world of Jackson Brown

2008-01-23T21:50:00.000-08:00

Jackson has started pooping, yes pooping in the bath tub. I don't know if the warm bath water relaxes him or what, but it is SO annoying (and disgusting). So, Wayne was around one morning and Jackson was starting to get "the face" and started the grunting noises as well that most kids do when they are doing their business. Wayne got the grand idea to get out the "potty seat" that I used growing up that my Mom has kept over the years. It seriously has been around FOREVER. I am sure my parents had it with most all of us kids so it is like 30-40 years old. Anyway, so he pulls Jackson out of the bath and onto the toilet to see if he will go. He didn't go, but it made for some great pictures.

Our little man

2008-01-08T21:17:00.000-08:00

We just had to take a picture of Jackson in his Sunday best......he looked like such a little man. Seriously, how cute is he. By the way, we just had an ultrasound and found out that we are having yet another boy!!! We are soooo excited and feel so blessed to be able to have another child.

Jackson's 1st birthday

2008-01-08T20:38:00.000-08:00

We had a small party with family and friends to celebrate his 1st birthday, December 20th

Jackson wasn't too much into the present opening thing but he sure was into the birthday cake

He seriously devoured it and wanted more. Imagine that. Thank goodness for baths!!! Happy birthday big guy. We love you.

The Christmas Spirit

2007-12-14T23:07:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like getting a tree to really help the season come alive. We cut down our tree last weekend and I have been loving it. I love turning out all the lights except those on the tree and just relaxing. It is one of those things that I really look forward to.
So, this year for Christmas, we are spending most of it with Wayne's family. We are really looking forward to hanging out with his siblings, especially those that live away from us. We will be spending a couple of days out at the coast all together so that should be a lot of fun.
We are going to have a get together with my family as a few of them that don't live in Salem are going to visit for a few days. I am looking forward to that as well as we don't get together very often. There is nothing that compares to family, and I especially miss family around the holidays. This year is so different with Mom being gone on her mission.....I am sure the holidays will be hard for her as well. But one of my sisters is actually going to Brazil and will be there for Christmas. I am sure they are both looking forward to that. Being a senior missionary sure has some nice perks!!!
We are so thankful for our friends and family and just want to wish all of you the happiest of holidays. We love you and Merry Christmas.

Daddy's favorite

2007-10-01T22:05:00.001-07:00

Dad sure does dote on his little guy. It is so fun to watch them wrestle and play together......it is something that only a father and son can do. I play with him but not like his Dad does. I feel so lucky to have such a great husband. I love you Wayne!!!

Classic pics of Jackson

2007-10-01T17:10:00.001-07:00

Issac Garners baby blessing

2007-10-01T16:57:00.000-07:00

We loved being in Utah with the Browns and Garners....it was a short but very fun trip. We wish that we lived closer to our cousins!!!!
Jackson loved the hammock.......he was laughing and lovin life!!

Highlight of our trip to Utah

2007-10-01T16:47:00.001-07:00

So, on our way home from Utah Jackson had a HUGE blow-out. Poop had seeped through the diaper and onto the car seat. It was so gross!!! So, we did what we had to do.....we striped him down naked and watered him down. It was a two person job to say the least.
This is one of my favorite pics....letting him air dry!!