Sand. Surf. And Ellsworths

Mr. Fashionista

2012-01-05T20:59:00.000-08:00

There have been several times over this past year, when Deacon didn't like what we picked out for him to wear and decided that he wanted to pick his own outfit out.

Like his 'aloha' shirt that was about 6 months too small (I hadn't taken out of his drawer) yet, he insisted on wearing it.

And he couldn't decide on which tie to wear to church, so he wore 2.

And the numerous times he wanted to pick a shirt to wear. So he emptied his whole drawer to find the perfect one. It would sometimes make us late, but he was happy.

And on this particular day, he decided he couldn't leave the house without his tie.

Oh I love this little man.

On a side note...we went to feed the ducks at the ASU research park down the street. And those ducks are psycho. And the geese are freaky. They are huge and in your face. I thought they were going to eat me. I got a little freaked out and honestly, they were scaring me. My reaction made Deacon scared. Oops. We had to reassure him that he was safe and not to be scared. Hopefully I didn't scar him of being afraid of ducks...

However, I did remain standing the whole time.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T21:25:00.000-08:00

For the past 4 years we've gotten to bring on the new year with some of our great friends, the Danielson's & the Baker's. (We missed the Jensens this year.)

We celebrated at the Danielsons with games, food, fireworks and fun.

A huge Thank you to them for hosting New Years Eve 2011!

We played multiple rousing games of "Around the World"....

Followed by sheer entertainment from Justin and Jason playing Kinect.

Jason jumping for the high jump.

Then, they tested their skills with the long jump.

He gets a little intense when he plays. ....{we got a new point and shot camera for Christmas, so we're still figuring out the settings}

Then we headed outside for some sparklers and fireworks.

The Ladies.

The Gents.

Happy 2012!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T15:02:00.000-08:00

We got to enjoy Christmas morning as a family. We had a good time with Deacon opening presents. It was so fun with him being older and seeing the joy on his face with every present he got to open.

Deacons really into, "Clifford, the Big Red Dog". A couple of weeks ago, he saw a stuffed animal Clifford at Target, he grabbed it and fell in love. It was sad to take it from him and put it back. He shed a tear. So a couple of days after, Jason and I went back and got that dog to give him for Christmas. He was thrilled when he saw it sitting next to the tree on Christmas morning.

Some bath toys.

Santa brought Jason and I some bikes! Woo-Hoo!

And Deacon got a Radio Flyer 500. He was a little skeptical at first...

But then fell in love!

After we got all dressed and ready for church we headed over to my parents house for the traditional "Poppy McMuffins", slush, homemade cinnamon rolls and to open a few presents. We didnt have much time, with our ward starting at 11, we had about 40 mins. It truly was an "Express Christmas". Everything happened SO fast that although I enjoyed breakfast, I didn't really get to 'enjoy' breakfast.

Kendal and I had each other for Christmas this year. I was lucky, she's so creative and talented. I'm not really a seamstress, but I enjoy sewing. I don't have a lot of supplies, so I asked for some sewing stuff this year. Among other things, she got a bunch of glass jars with lids and put different supplies in them...one for ribbon, thread, needles, buttons and each one of them labeled so cute, with a bobbin attached. I love it!

We said our goodbyes and rushed off to church. We had a good meeting, our wards Christmas program was the week before; which I would have loved it more to have been on Christmas day, but the meeting was still good. Just having Sacrament was just enough..I guess we were ansty to get and be together with family.

After church, we went home to change and headed to the Ellsworth's to spend the afternoon with them. We had a delicious feast. Ham, turkey, jello salad, rolls, Valeries yummy funeral potatoes and green been casserole. It was fun to be with the whole family. Although we missed the Rosenoffs!

Deacon had a nice nap while we ate, and woke up just in time to open presents.

Brennan and Tate got "Stomp Rockets" that Deacon was very impressed with. It's a good thing there were two to them cause when Deacon figured out how it worked, he kinda took over one of them.

We brought over Deacons little roller coaster, cause Luke got one too for Christmas, so they had a good time racing each other.

We had a Very Merry Christmas! And are grateful for all we have and have received. We are especially grateful for the humble birth of our Savior Jesus Christ and his Perfect example for us all. And for this time of year to reflect more on Him.

Christmas Eve...

2011-12-24T21:13:00.000-08:00

Its an "Off year" this year for the Bullocks. So Christmas Eve this year we spent with The Bullocks. We enjoyed a Delicious dinner, mom spent all day making it. Turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, fruit salad, home-made cranberry sauce. Followed by home-made apple pie, everything from scratch. Oh so good!!

"The stocking were hung by the chimney with care.." We've had these stockings for as long as I can remember. Mom wants new ones. And these past few years she has been done with hanging them up. She hides them. But every year one of us finds them and hangs them up anyway.

They are adorable. And they are a part of Christmas.

After dinner we helped the boys play a game, "Where is your Sock Monkey?"

The game comes with a little sock monkey that you hide {like put on a shelf or some place thats not too hard for 2 year olds} and little cards that helps the kids find it.

"Is it in a room with a computer?"

"Noooo"

They loved it. They had a hard time keeping their eyes closed while it was being hidden. Sneaky Victor would watch which direction whomever hid it would come back from.

"No Peeking!"

The boys helped me make "Cereal Treat". A treat that Grandma Bullock use to make. Its full of everything bad for you, and that is why it is so good!

The recipe:

-1/2 box of corn chex

-1/2 box of golden grahams

-1/2 bag of coconut

-1/2 bag almonds

boil together for 4 minutes:

-2 cubes butter

-1 cup light Karo syrup

-1 cup sugar

(I kinda feel like the stuff you boil together makes too much, so I decrease it by 1/4 or 1/2)

Mix together & Enjoy!

Later that evening we got to skype with the Olaves and the Hawaiian Bullocks. With it being an off year, we missed family but thank goodness for technology. We even did a little gift exchange with 'every one' over the internet.

Jason had Nikki for Christmas & got her an itunes gift card (which she wanted). He didn't mail it to her, he sent it via email, so it she got something to 'open' just not the traditional way. It made for a nice laugh with everyone.

When we got home that night, we let Deacon open one present. He wasn't too thrilled that it was pajamas. But they sure looked very cute on him.

Temple Lights.

2011-12-20T20:50:00.000-08:00

For F.H.E this week we decided to take a walk around the Mesa Temple for the Annual Temple Lights. It was a beautiful night and wonderful as always to be together as a family.

Picture overload ahead...Deacon was just being silly and did not want to look at the camera, at least when I wanted a picture with him. Oh that boy.

After the lights we headed home to read Luke 2. Afterward, we enjoyed some hot chocolate and watched 'Vintage' Christmas cartoons.

{I found this DVD at Wal-Mart for super cheap loaded with lots of old cartoons (like old when I was growing up), it turned out to be pretty awesome.}

2011-12-15T20:44:00.000-08:00

Silly Boy & Silly Faces.

2011-12-09T13:15:00.000-08:00

Deacon was watching "Clifford" in the craft room. He must of found the foam coin stickers and decided to put them on the only thing he could think of....his head.

This is how I found him.

He was too into "Clifford" to turn his eyes from the T.V. screen.

He's 2!

2011-12-02T14:56:00.000-08:00

On October 13th 2009, a little angel came to our family.

Where have these past 2 years gone?!

I can't believe our little man is 2!

I had hopes of doing a little family party for Deacon this year, but things didn't go as planned..We talked about doing a BBQ with the weather getting nicer, but before we could set a date Jason got excited to do winter grass and in that went before we could do a party for Deacon. The dates of doing 'something' kept getting pushed back and here it is December, so we'll work on planning for next year instead. :)

On his birthday we decided to enjoy the day as a family.

In the morning we made breakfast, eggs and a cinnamon roll. He loved the "birthday song" with a candle he could blow out.

After breakfast, Grandma and Grandpa came over with Tressa and Luke to wish D a Happy Birthday.

Deacon was THRILLED when he saw the present they brought for him was wrapped in Lightening McQueen wrapping paper. He is a HUGE fan of "CARS".

(He still is very good at giving us a huge cheesy smile when we 'say cheese'.)

We then took off to Makutu's Island. We had never been but it sounded fun. Its an indoor playground; they have a huge tree in the center you can climb all around, in and on, a little movie theatre, arcades, a little aquarium and a toddler section with little slides and foam building blocks.

When we got there, we should have known it was going to be interesting when we walked up to the door and Deacon started crying. He does not like loud places with dim lights.

We 'fun-forced' him anyway and after a few tries he finally enjoyed himself. But ONLY in the toddler area. He wouldnt admit it, but he did like the big tube slides too. He really Did Not like the tree.

We stayed for a little over an hour then went to In 'n Out for lunch.

Then we went home for cake & ice cream....

(I had plans on making the cake look much better, but Deacon was too excited to wait...so its either a Train or a bunch of cars backed up in traffic. ha ha. He is very much into either right now. )

Which made him happy that it meant another chance to sing the "Happy Birthday" song and blow out candles.

And presents...

Later that night Mimi & Papa came over to wish him a Happy Birthday and bring him a little something. He was so excited! It was a 'McQueen'

(he has a hard time saying lightening, so he just sticks with McQueen) flashlight.

It's hard to imagine him once a little baby. He has grown up so much.

We are so grateful that he is a part of our family, our miracle baby.

He brings joy to us everyday.

We love you Deacon Kai!

Trimming the Tree

2011-12-01T21:56:00.000-08:00

Last year I bought a pass for us to cut down our own tree up in Payson. {although our tree ended up being a little "Charlie Brown-like" we loved it. And it was a really fun thing we got to do as a family.}

We missed the deadline for that this year, so we headed to Costco and picked one up December 1st. It was a great price and it looked good. It was all tied up, so we really had no idea what it was going to look like. We were impressed. But we think if we do that next year, we'll have figure out what we did wrong this year because it died about 2 weeks after we got it. :(

It still smelled good and didnt look completely horrible until the day after Christmas..I like to keep Christmas up until the 1st of January, but to prevent our house from burning down, that tree was taken down the day after Christmas.

Helping Daddy.

After we brought the tree inside, we found Deacon doing a little trimming himself.

We found him about every day for the month with his toy saw, sawing at the tree. "I fix it Mommy."

The finished project.

And yes, my perfectionism kicked in after seeing this picture and those lights, 'cranberry' strands and a few ornaments were adjusted numerous times to try and get them looking somewhat right.

I found this "Grinch-like" branch on our tree. {How weird and fun at the same time.} And the only way to get a decent picture of it was to take it from above.

2011-11-30T21:45:00.000-08:00

It doesn't matter what we do, a bath right before bed, combing it out before bed or nap, this kid has the CRAZIEST bed head when he wakes up.

Happy Turkey Day!

2011-11-24T16:02:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving this year was the 'off' year for the Ellsworths so we got to enjoy it with the Bullocks. It was quiter this year then in years past with only the Holmans, Mom and Dad and our family.

But oh, it was Delicious!

The weather was a bit un-predicatable, with some cool afternoon showers while we feasted, then sun which allowed us to enjoy some time playing outside in the wagon and walks around the circle and playing 'blongo ball' in the backyard. Then when the sun went down, it turned pretty cold which worked out because we were due for a skype date with the whole Bullock clan; the Olaves in Virginia and the Trevor and Lauren Bullocks in Hawaii and in the Josh and Jourdan Bullocks and Kendal in Utah. We enjoyed talking & laughing with one another and receiving some rather shocking but welcoming news...the newest Bullock family, Josh and Jourdan, shared with us that they are pregnant! Congratulations you two!!

Whats Thanksgiving without Papas Turkey?!

Giving the Turkey hugs.

Yum!

Playing with Mylee while waiting to eat.

Reminiscing of past Thanksgivings while looking at old family photos.

2011-11-13T15:42:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful that I have some family that lives here in AZ., lucky Jason has nearly all of his family that lives here. With Deacon and Victor only a month apart we got to celebrate with him when he turned two.

Nat and Justin had family over for a BBQ and cake and ice cream. Deacon was stoked to be able to sing "Happy Birthday" and eat "I keams".

Welcome to your twos Victor! We love you!

2011-11-11T21:43:00.000-08:00

For Veterans Day this year we decided to go to downtown Mesa for the Veterans Day Parade.

We brought along Deacons little buddy, Preston, with us, and it was a hit with the little guys. And pretty enjoyable for Jason and I too.

Watching the B-52 flying overhead starting off the parade.

Watching the tank.

Waving to the Boy Scouts.

2011-11-10T21:32:00.000-08:00

With the weather as good as its been, we've been enjoying our time outside.

Deacon loves to ride bikes.

Jason and I have yet to get some, we're hoping Santa will bring some for Christmas this year.

But until then, this is how we ride.

Deacon still has yet to figure out that those pedals are for your feet. So he likes to 'walk/ride' with his feet. We'll give him a little bit longer because for now he refuses.

And we're okay with that because he's so cute.

2011-11-10T21:01:00.000-08:00

Everyday Deacon asks, "A Park?"

He loves going and would spend all day playing on the slides and swinging on the swings.

There was one time I pushed him for about 40 minutes.

My arms were killing me and I had to call it quits.

Deacon loves when Jason acts like he's beating Jason up.

He was laughing so hard.

A few months ago he couldn't climb up this ladder, he's growing up so quick!

WOOO!

Every time we go to the park he attempts to climb up the pole.

And every time he doesn't get more than a couple of inches off the ground when he jumps.

He's a very determined little guy.

And oh so cute while he tries.

Ducks!

2011-11-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

Deacon loves to fed the duck over in Grandma and Grandpas neighborhood.

But Oh, Boy, they are getting crazy.

A little TOO familiar with people.

They are starting to freak me out.

But we still have fun.

I dont know whats going on here. Ha. Ha.

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-02T15:16:00.000-07:00

Thankfully Jason was able to switch with someone at work so he could have the night off to spend with us. We were grateful for that.

We decided to go to our wards Halloween party & "Trunk or Treat". Deacon was like a magnet for the younger kids, they all loved his balloons. He had several following him, hoping he'd give them up for them.

Deacons first time 'trunk or treating'. He was so cute. We'd tell him what to say, but he grew shy and would whisper it every time.

We met up with the Bakers and had to take our 2nd annual Halloween picture with the boys in the parking lot.

The Bakers.

After the ward party we headed over to the Bullocks for a late dinner and to spend time with Mimi, Papa and the Holmans.

Getting a decent picture with these two was nearly impossible!

Victor, the garden gnome and Deacon, Russell from "UP".

Gardeners and the Garden gnome.

We had a great Halloween and are already looking forward to next year.

Ellsworth Family Halloween Party

2011-10-31T21:16:00.000-07:00

Neil and Jen had the whole Ellsworth family over for bread bowls of soup and dessert on Halloween Eve. It was yummy and fun to spend time together as family.

We thought a lot about our Halloween costumes this year. We all enjoy dressing up and its more fun as a family. :)

We had thought about being "Back to the Future" characters (Jason as Marty, Me as Jennifer and Deacon as Doc.) But we didnt want people asking us all night what we were, so we thought it would be kinda funny if we played off the "Doc" idea and Deacon was Albert Einstein. We thought it might work cause D's hair can be a little crazy.

I was talking over ideas with Trevor and he said he saw a funny idea of the dad and son being the characters from the Disney movie "UP".

...oooooooo...

...hummmm...

.....we stole his idea.

Deacon really likes that movie and we all could be characters. Perfect.

So our costumes this year are thanks to Uncle Trevor.

Thank you Trevor!

Paisley.

Paisley, Deacon, Tate and Lila.

I wish I would have taken more pictures but I had to leave early for our wards Evening in Excellence for Young Womens.

Pumpkins..Caramel Apples..Ahh, Fall

2011-10-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

A few years ago we started a tradition with some great friends...carving pumpkins and making caramel apples. I love this new tradition!

Unfortunately, we couldn't enjoy that tradition with the same friends,but we invited some other great friends, The Bakers, over to enjoy the night with us.

"Whats that?"

He tried to help clean it out, but after putting his hand in there about three times, he was over it.

Deacon and Preston Boy.

Caramel apples.

They don't look super good, we have yet to learn the tricks of the trade...but they were delicious!

The finished products...

Jason's Owl and my spider.

Deacons pumpkin remained un-carved and we had to throw it away a couple of days later cause of mold. Sorry D. I guess we really should of just let him 'play' with one of ours.

I take after my dad with a few things, one major thing is decorating for holidays.

Jason thinks I'm crazy.

But it makes me feel happy and its a nice little change in our house.

Little Monsters.

Made from toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, toothpaste boxes and soap boxes, add a little paint, toothpicks and pom-poms and wall-la!

(Deacons really 'into' "Yo Gabba Gabba", so I did a few characters, Brobee & Muno, just for him.)

Happy Halloween!

Our Little Baker

2011-10-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

Deacon loves to help me cook. Every time he hears me getting into things in the kitchen, he comes running over to see what's going on.

"What you doing Mommy?"

He then works VERY hard to push a chair over from the table to get up and see what I'm doing and offer his help.

We go through phases in our family, some weeks we go through bananas so fast, other weeks they sit and sit for days until they turn too soft for my liking. And then they get turned into banana bread. Yum.

This particular day I decided to let Deacon help me. I pulled out a few extra bowls that he could mix a few ingredients together, just like Mommy. He had some flour, sugar, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon and then he wanted to add some water, after mixing it a bit he even tried it. Yuk... But after chewing for a bit he very assuredly nodded his head and announced, "Good".

After I finished my batch, I let him lick the beaters...I think he preferred the full recipe.

I love my little baker.

I love his serious, very focused faces.

"Deacon, let me see you......

.....Say cheese, show me your teeth."

Ahhh, I love him!

Children's Museum of Phoenix

2011-10-06T21:30:00.000-07:00

The library's around town have recently started doing "Culture Passes". They are passes to all types of museums, the zoo, the botanical garden, art centers, etc. that you can check out and get into these places for free. It's been great to be able to check them out and visit and add a little variety to our weeks. Especially the ones inside for hot days. The passes also are great to explore new places and see if its worth going back again.

We decided to check out the Childrens Museum of Phoenix. Deacon and I went last year with Natalie and Victor, but they had both just turned 1, so I thought it might be a little more fun with Deacon being older.

We invited Tressa and Luke to come along as well. They had lots of playing with mail, playing peek-a-boo, riding bikes through a car wash, exploring the noodle forest, reading books, 'driving' cars, making music, playing in the maze, climbing up a 'tree-house', and fascinated by the vacuum and scarves.

We definitely be visiting again!

"BOO!"

"Where are you Deacon?"

He was a good climber, those steps were steep!

The Flying Bathtub.

"The Dream Boat"

"I do it!"

Park

2011-10-05T17:02:00.000-07:00

The weather gave us a little tease last week-it was actually cool enough to go outside for longer than 10 minutes. We decided to enjoy it by going to the park and feeding the ducks with Aunt Tressa and Luke.

Some for them.

And some for him. ha ha.

Followed by a few minutes playing on the swings.

Lotion

2011-09-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

I hate going to bed with dry hands and feet, (I know, weird) so I always put lotion on beforehand. Because I do, I keep a bottle of lotion on the side of the bed. Sometimes Deacon will grab it and put a little on his legs (cause I do that to him after his bath and he sees me do it on myself).

This time he went a little crazy.

Every mom knows when the house goes quiet their little one(s) are up to no good.

The house went quiet one morning and I found him sitting in his chair, with the bottle of lotion and super moisturized hair.

Maybe because he was wearing jeans he didnt know where else to put it, so into his hair it went.

It went from this....

To this....

Cheesy smiles.

One post at a time & I'll finally get there...

2011-09-10T16:34:00.000-07:00

I have much to catch up with...especially since it's been a year since I've posted anything. I get so overwhelmed because it has been so long and there is SO much to catch up on that I just don't post. But I gotta catch up. So here it goes...

The other day I was pulling weeds in the yard, I wanted Deacon to come out and get some fresh air so I brought out a toy that I knew he'd play with and went about my weeding. I didn't hear anything for a bit from him so I came around the corner and found him like this...

He must of wanted to cool off, cause he was sitting in water. That or he was bored and trying something new. He's so funny. He is full of the funniest facial expressions, I'm glad I caught a few of them.

2011-08-31T21:34:00.000-07:00

On our way to Utah for Josh and Jourdans wedding!

Deacon did great on the flight.. probably because he was stoked to be on a plane and sucking on a sucker.

Happy Birthday Little Man!

2010-10-22T13:05:00.001-07:00

Our baby turned one. I can not believe that he is one. I got an email from a parenting site-“..your toddler” wow, so not ready for that, especially that word.

In honor of him, we threw him a little birthday party with family and close friends. He loves to read his Dr. Suess books, so we did that as our theme. We had cupcakes and ice cream. The little ones got to decorate their own cupcakes and the older one played a few rounds of blongo ball. Deacon was a little unsure of what to do with his cupcake. He’s so cute. We had a great time. We are so grateful that he is our son. He is a wonderful little boy. Our “little man”.

"The Cat in the Hat"

"Green Eggs & Ham"

12 months of Deacon.

Party favors for the kids.

Leah & Arianna.

Lila. Heather & Preston. The young ones decorated cupcakes...

..while the older ones played Blongo Ball.

Distracted during the "Happy Birthday" song by the planes flying overhead...

Happy 1st year little dude!

Happy 4th!

2010-07-05T18:44:00.000-07:00

For the 4^th we decided to head a few hours east to Atlanta Georgia. Although it was on a Sunday, it was so fun to get away for the day with the boys not having to work. We went to church then headed out to enjoy ATL. We went to the mall to check out what they had to offer then went and got dinner to eat a park close by. We enjoyed some K.F.C then decided we couldn’t really see where the fireworks would go off so we headed back toward the mall. We found a great spot close enough but far enough away to avoid major traffic. We snuck up onto a church parking garage, it ended up being just the few of us and two other random couples. Perfect. Quiet and with a close view of the fireworks. We were afraid that the loud noise would be too loud for Deacon, but he handled it nicely. It was loud and scared him at first but then he ended up just staring at them. We had a great time in ATL. Because we were only there for a few hours we missed out on actually seeing a lot there, so we’ll have to go back someday!

playin' around

2010-07-02T22:24:00.000-07:00

Couldn't resist putting this one up...

...and a couple others.

I love this little guy!

9 months old.

You Say its your Birthday...

2010-07-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

Jason is getting old. He turned 27 this year. Instead of taking the day off to play, he was diligent and worked until it was dark. The guys were all working in a town about an hour away, so it was hard to really plan much with them getting back kind of late (& not wanting to put Deacon down for bed super late, and with Deacon and I having just got back in town late the night before). We decided to do a barbeque-it was so nice that the extend-a-stay hotel we were staying at had one.

While they were out working all day, Deacon and I went to work to prepare for a party when they returned. We made a happy birthday banner, got balloons, a piñata, made potato salad, marinated some meat, and went shopping for the perfect birthday gifts. We had a fun time putting everything together. When they all got back we headed down for a BBQ, followed by cupcakes and a few turns at the Transformer piñata before it busted open with candy& chocolate & little toys flying everywhere.

A big thanks to Terin for climbing the roof of the ramada and holding the piñata, to Josh for the cupcakes, and the Halls for drinks. And everyone for coming to celebrate Jasons birthday!!

Here’s to MANY more birthdays to come!

Happy Birthday Love!

Bakes 963 (Chris) and Josh

Kirsten, Jessica, Kevin, Jesse, Brittany and Brian.

Terin & Josh getting the pinata ready.

The Birthday Boy.

oh wow.

2010-06-29T22:19:00.000-07:00

Got this picture text from Jason while I was away in Arizona....

Grandma Bullocks Funeral Weekend

2010-06-29T18:31:00.000-07:00

With my Grandmas health on the decline these past few years, Jason and I had been preparing our selves for word of her passing. In the long run, it was the best for her to be released of her body here on Earth and return to her Father in Heaven as well as seeing Grandpa once again.

It was pretty incredible that she had held on to say goodbye to all of them. The weekend prior too her passing Aunt Tracey from Oregon had flew down to spend some time with her, uncle Vic from California drove over to see her, a few weeks prior uncle John from Texas was here to see her and uncle Bill from Utah had made it just in time to give her kiss and tell her he loved her before she passed away silently in her bed.

Shortly after, the news had spread and we received word of her passing. Due to funds, Deacon and I were the only ones able to fly back to Arizona for the funeral. We found a good flight and made our way home. With Jason working non-stop, Deacon and I decided to stay a few extra days after the funeral to spend time with family. We packed our bag and hitched a ride with a friend to the airport as we flew out Friday June 18^th. I was betting on using clothes I had left at home and only packed 1 bag for Deacon & I. Traveling alone with a baby was pretty stressful. I didn’t put much thought into it before going, thinking, “no problem, I can do this.” It was pretty rough. We didn’t bring Deacons stroller with us to Alabama, thinking that we would just buy an umbrella stroller if we needed one, so had to carry Deacon the whole time. I had Deacon, his car seat, my handbag and our carry-on bag---that didn’t have wheels, just my shoulder. After I got his car seat checked on that lightened my load for sure. But that little guy sure is getting heavy. We checked in, letting the agent know that I was flying alone with him, hoping for an empty row. And that’s what it was looking like we’d get. Turns out the flight before us got cancelled so some of those passengers got on our flight and the flight became completely full. No biggie right? Wrong. Our flight actually had a lay over in Atlanta, Georgia, so we were on a small plane due to the short flight. Deacon and I were put in the very back to the plane. Isle seat. Picture this—someone at the window seat, us, the flight attendant, and then another 2 passengers and all of us shoulder to shoulder. And I still nurse Deacon during take-offs and landings so his ears pop. Lets just say it was a good thing I packed some formula just in case. He ended up sleeping the whole time, thankfully. And it was only a little over an hour flight. And the women sitting next to me was very kind. We arrive in ALT; I immediately go the gate agent verifying the gate for the flight to PHX. She directs me to the correct gate. Or so she thought. That airport is HUGE! I walk down the super long corridor, down the escalator, take the tram to the next terminal, up the escalator, down another long corridor to the gate, verify that we were in the correct spot and was told, “sorry, its been moved to another gate.” I turn around and walk down the super long corridor and to the other gate. Talk to the agent making sure I was in the right spot and wanting to ask how the flight looked (to see if Deacon and I could get a row to our self). But the flight heading out before us was delayed so she couldn’t even help me until she got that taken care of. I take a seat to finally put my bags and deacon down and catch a breath. I’m practically shaking because I’m so thirsty and hungry and exhausted with hold D and our heavy bag. I quickly eat my cold pizza I bought at the Birmingham airport, the one I thought I would get to eat on the previous flight. I notice that the agent is still trying to figure out the flight and so Deacon and I head to the restroom and then to grab some water. By the time I’m done changing him, getting he & I cleaned up we make our way back to the gate and it’s practically deserted! WHAT?? Did they board our flight already?? I’m freaking out, quickly head to the counter and ask a gentleman in line if they boarded the flight to PHX. He was kind enough to let me know they hadn’t and actually had moved the flight back to the original gate. Oh my! So I tread back down the super long corridor to the other gate. I made it. I went immediately to the gate agent to check on the status and occupancy of the flight. She put me in a middle seat. Lovely. Now I’m praying that it doesn’t fill up. While waiting to board an older gentlemen offers to hold one of my bags, seeing that my arms were full. I let him, but kept a watchful eye on him. You never know. He was very kind and helpful. We boarded and another kind woman offered to hold Deacon while I got our stuff all situated. She was traveling alone, but turns out she’s done the traveling alone with kids a number of times, her husbands in the military. We got ourselves in place and waited to take off. With every passenger finding his or her seat I got more and more antsy, just praying and hoping that no one was sitting in our row. Finally, the flight attendant came on the intercom to let us know we’d be taking off. PHEW! And thank heavens; we had our own row! When I was able to finally let out a sigh of relief I get a tap on my shoulder from a woman behind us…she just wanted to inform me that she had been watching Deacon and I while we were waiting at the gate to board, she said Deacon was so well behaved, adorable and looked like a sweet heart. She’s right; he was wonderful the whole time. Loved to people watch and was happy to walk back and forth. He was a trooper!

When we took off Deacon was mesmerized with watching everything ‘fly’ by, but he was exhausted so ended up falling asleep rather quickly and ended up sleeping the remainder of the flight.

We arrived in Phoenix and the rest of the trip was kind of a blur. My cousins and aunts and uncles all arrived within the next few days and with us all living in different states it was great to be able to see them all again. There were some that I hadn’t seen since my grandpa died, about 17 years.

Sunday was Fathers Day, so we all got together and went around telling something about our Dads, a story from growing up, something that we learned from him, something that reminds us of him. It was great to hear stories and be together as a family. Unfortunately, Deacon and I missed being with Jason on his first Fathers Day. We were so bummed for that. But got to chat and take some pictures to send of little D.

Monday the women of the group-my aunts, mom, sisters and cousins went to ‘Dress’ Grandma for the funeral the following day. We put her in her temple clothes, did her hair and makeup. We talked of stories of Grandma, of memories we had of her and made with her. We talked about the way she would have wanted her hair-she loved it big and curled. When we finished she looked natural & beautiful. And then we each got a minute or two to say our last goodbyes. Although it was only her body, with her spirit having left it, it was a wonderful experience. Later that day the siblings talked over Grandmas affairs-none of us wanted to be there so all the cousins went swimming. We had plans of having a BBQ in the evening followed by a FHE with everyone. Plans soon changed. The meeting with all the siblings ran a little long so we went to In-n-Out for already made burgers. We met up at the condo afterward for the FHE but Josh was looking pretty bad, he ended up throwing up a few times. My stomach had been bothering me, and I also ended up throwing up as well. With the combination of heat and not drinking enough water, Josh was not doing well at all, Trevor and Dad gave him a blessing and ended up taking him to the ER., they pumped him with fluids as he ended up being severally dehydrated. As for me, despite what people were thinking-that I was pregnant. I think I had a 24 or 48hr. flu bug. I just drank lots of fluids. And the next day still wasn’t feeling great, but a bit better. Turns out my cousins daughter had to also be taken to the children’s ER that night due to a urinary infection.

The next day, Tuesday, was the funeral. We were all suppose to be there early, but with me not feeling that well, I showed up just before the funeral and just before they closed that casket. I am glad I got to say my goodbyes the day prior. Although I spent the majority of the service out in the lobby with Deacon, it was a beautiful service for Grandma. Wonderful stories and memories of her by Uncle John and Aunt Tracey and Dad, as well a song that Kendilyn (who is serving a mission), recorded and sent to be played. It was perfect.

After the service we headed to a brief service at the gravesite. Brady played two wonderful songs on his saxophone, more memories were shared and Uncle Bill said a beautiful prayer. With the Arizona temperature, it was brief and we headed back to the church building to spend more time together as a family. Josh’s flight back to Alabama was actually right after the funeral, so Trevor, Nikki, deacon and I took him to the airport. I was starting to not feel very good once again, and Trevor and Nikki weren’t either so we headed home to rest. That flu bug was rather contagious, as it turned out just about every one of my family-immediate and extended ended up getting sick.

I was able to spend a few more days in Arizona to spend time with family. It was great, as we hadn’t seen each other in a while. We relaxed and told stories and went through Grandmas stuff.

I am so grateful that families are eternal. I am grateful to know that I will be able to see my Grandma and Grandpa once again.

Deacon and I were also able to have dinner visit with Jasons family. It was so fun to put Deacon next to little Luke. I can’t believe Deacon was once that little.

Josh forgot a lot of stuff in Arizona that he wanted me to bring back to him when I flew back to Alabama, and because he did he offered to pay for a bag to be checked. That was a huge help not to have to carry my bag like on the flight to Arizona. And I borrowed my parents’ umbrella stroller to help lighten the load with carrying Deacon as well. But my flight back to Alabama was just as much as an adventure as it was getting to Arizona. We once again had a middle seat, so of course my hopes were high that we’d have the whole row again. That hope was shattered as I learned the flight was completely full. Deacon was pretty tired, so I once again hoped that he’d sleep the whole flight. Once again that also didn’t happen. He slept for just a short while, which wouldn’t have been a problem except the flight ended up being longer than expected. With a storm moving in over Atlanta, where our connecting flight was, we were sent to Chattanooga, Tennessee. With many other planes also sent there, we waited on the jet way for a gate to refuel for over an hour. Deacon was getting fussy, hungry and tired of sitting in one spot. I was getting overwhelmed with being stuck in the middle and trying to deal with him. Thankfully I was sitting by some nice people that offered food and for us to walk around. Jason was on the phone as soon as he heard our flight was delayed to check the status of my connecting flight, hoping that we wouldn’t miss that one and be stuck at the airport overnight. If our plane made it back to ATL we’d have to book it to the connecting flight or we would be stuck. Our prayers were heard and finally we were on our way back to ATL. As soon as we got off the plane Deacon and I ran to the connecting flight, they were calling the last few rows before taking off. Thankfully for us our connecting flight had been delayed for a few hours so we made it just in the nick of time! That flight was really empty so Deacon and I got to sit wherever we wanted with a row to ourselves. After watching the lights while taking off, Deacon slept peacefully the whole time to Alabama. Once we landed, of course we went to get our bag as well as the car seat, and like a cherry on top if it all, of course neither of them made the flight. After dealing with the luggage and getting a car seat to borrow we were on our way back to the hotel with Jason. It was nice to be on the ground and especially nice be with him once again.

Apparently I wasn’t the only one that had a hard time getting home after the funeral, several of my extended family also ran into problems, with cars breaking down to flights being cancelled or redirected. We all joke that of course all of us to have problems getting there and leaving. Ha. Ha.

Moving on to Something Better.

2010-06-28T13:30:00.000-07:00

After being apart for 19 years, my beautiful Grandma Bullock has finally been reunited with her Sweetheart. She passed away June 16^th, 2010, quietly in her bed.

I am grateful for her legacy she left behind.

I will cherish the memories we have made together, with our family and with her and I. The sleepovers & then watching Nick at Night, getting ice cream (& her getting Taz, {her dog} his own bowl), playing Phase 10 and Dominoes, the barbeques at her house, summers full of swimming, watching General Conference & eating this delicious Chex mix she made—I’m still trying to track down that recipe, going out to dinner & in her later years only wanting Steak, No Veggies. I’ll miss her shear honesty with saying whatever was on her mind; it made for good conversation.

I am grateful to be her namesake, Marjorie. Although a bit old-fashioned it reminds of the wonderful women she was.

Until we meet again Grandma.

Her obituary: Marjorie Killpack Bullock, 92 of Mesa, Arizona, returned peacefully to her Heavenly Father on June 16, 2010. She was born 11/04/1917 in Nephi, UT to William Leslie and Jeanette Killpack, and grew up in Driggs, ID with her sister Helen Paxman and two brothers who died in childhood. A lifetime active LDS Church member, she married Victor Collins Bullock (deceased) in the Salt Lake Temple. Later they served in the Singapore Mission. They raised 5 children in SLC, UT: Victor C Jr. (Orange, CA), John (Houston, TX), Tracey Ann Browning (Portland, OR), Kent (Mesa, AZ), and Bill (Draper, UT). She is survived by 17 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren. A BYU graduate, Marjorie taught elementary school in UT and AZ much of her life. She was a caring wife, mother and grandmother. She will be sorely missed. Viewing 9:30 AM followed by funeral at 11 AM on June 22, 2010 at Woodglen Park Ward, 616 S Extension Rd, Mesa, AZ. Burial will follow at Mesa cemetery. Arrangement by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Fathers

2010-06-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

This year was Jason’s first Fathers Day. {Unfortunately my Grandma passed away a few days prior to it and we flew to AZ for the funeral.} We were so bummed that we weren’t able to spend the day with Jason! Before left we insisted on taking him to dinner, his choice; we dinned at the Outback. We had a great dinner and enjoyed time together as a family.

Before we got married, I knew he’d be a good dad, as we have had Deacon he has made that even more apparent. I love to see them together, the smiles on both of their faces as I can see how much they love each other. We are so grateful for Jason in our lives, for the wonderful husband he is to me and fabulous dad he is to Deacon.

Happy Father’s Day Jason!

(Taken on Father's Day-so we could send a 'hello' to Jason)

And a Happy Fathers Day to our amazing dads..Marc & Kent! We love you guys! And are grateful for all you do/have done for us, for your examples & your love for us.

Little Fish

2010-06-16T16:28:00.000-07:00

With the weather getting warmer we got ourselves some bathing suits, a sun hat and rash guard for Deacon, lathered up the sunscreen and hit up the pool. It was his first time and it didn’t even faze him. When he takes a bath he loves to suck the water off his little fingers, the pool was no different. Then he quickly realized he could splash and play. We all (Jason, Uncles Josh, me & Deacon) had a good time playing in the pool; spinning in circles, bouncing, tossing him up.

8 months

2010-06-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

(I forgot the monthly birthday cards-so we improvised)

Deacon turned 8 months on June 13 (his Aunt Natalie's Birthday)!

Weight: 20lbs

Length: 28.5inches

(according to babycenter.com....Weight = between percentile 25 and 50 Length = between percentile 50 and 75)

You are such a happy, smiley boy. And getting quite curious about everything! You recently learned to tilt and move your body slightly sideways to look 'around the corner' and love to do that often; your dad, me and others get a kick out of it. And although you have 4 teeth with 3 trying to make their way to the surface, you remain in good spirits just fussy at nights. You are not yet crawling, but are trying by moving around backwards and in circles-we have to get to go forward now. But you do love to 'walk' with the help of anyone holding your hands. Just a few days ago you learned to clap! I've been clapping & trying to show & teach you how, you studied my hands and one day you just did it yourself. It was the cutest thing. You watch intently to learn to do things yourself, I love the way you study us to figure things out yourself; like how to say a new letter, clap your hands & make new sounds. You love to make new sounds; you taught yourself the funniest thing-you run your fingers over your lips in a wave-like manner. You do it "just because" and sometimes when you get frustrated. You are getting more active and alert and hate to be left alone for too long.

Splish-Splash

2010-06-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

With living here in the South, Deacon has had his first ‘real’ bath in a big tub. He looks so grown-up sitting up. He loves it. His curiosity gets the best of him as he watches the water fill up a few inches, plays with the plug, and watches as the water drains when he's ready to get out.

Brookhaven, Mississippi

2010-06-07T13:52:00.000-07:00

"A HOME SEEKERS PARADISE"

There is something about small towns and their downtowns that draw me to them. I love the old buildings, the architecture, the colors, the character, the wonder of the past & those who once lived there.

We spend Sunday afternoon driving through Brookhaven, {it only took about an hour}. I was infatuated with the character of the town. I wish I would have taken some pictures as we drove through the old neighborhoods, but I was too distracted with the charm of the homes. Beautiful antebellum, plantation homes. With tons of windows. With shutters. With color hidden in the brush of trees and plants and flowers. Why can't they build homes like those in Arizona?! Why can't they have charm and character and be different from each other? My dream: to live a neighborhood like that, but in AZ. Maybe some day it'll come true.

Even though the humidity seems to be 90% all the time here, Deacon & I have to get out and get some fresh air so we walk around outside for a bit. It was a beautiful day, minus the thick layer of humidity you could clearly see. Deacon was so funny. Normally, he is so distracted with everything around him that he won't look at me for me to take his picture & when he does he can be quite serious and wont smile, but today he was all smiles. He'd be looking down in the grass or out at the cars and then I'd call his name and he'd give me a huge smile. What a charmer.
His serious face. I wonder what he's thinking. Some say its intimidating. ha ha.

And he's done with taking pictures; on to more important things, his shoes.

Trouble

2010-06-05T13:23:00.000-07:00

Deacons already getting into trouble.

The other day he was playing on the bed, I walked away for one second and found that he had discovered a pen laying near him. He loves to play with anything and that went directly to his mouth...although I'm still curious how he got the cap off.

911!

2010-06-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

Thursday June 3, 2010

Its day 3 of selling and day 4 of being here and our 3^rd move. Turns out there is a nicer hotel in town. We are booked for 7 nights here at the Hampton Inn. Hopefully this time we’ll stick with the plans. Don’t get me wrong, I’m perfectly happy with staying here. They have a great breakfast, hot chocolate 24/7 and homemade cookies in the lobby after 6pm. It's nicer and feels a bit safer then the creepy/scary, movie feeling of Days Inn, with the doors of the rooms facing the parking lot. And, to be honest, I went and bought sheets-to put over the bedspread, cause I didn't want Deacon to play on their bedspread. And I put one on their couch too. Terrible of me.

Thankfully they made it home safe yesterday…last night we had Josh over for dinner when the guys got home from selling. And he told me a frightening story.

He and Jason car pool to their neighborhood, since they are just a few blocks from each other. When the sun was setting Josh was driving past the projects on his way to pick up Jason; he said he saw some guys dancing around a car that was blaring music waving their hand guns above their heads. He immediately called 911 to report them. After the night before, with people telling Jason to hide, he decided he would stay north of the projects when it got dark. Good thinking. I am just glad they both made it back safe and sound!

Road Trip.

2010-06-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

This summer we will spend it in the Dirty South.

Although very unlike Jason, [he’s a people person, but definitely not a salesman], he decided to try his luck at selling security systems with APX.

On Saturday May 29, Jason, Deacon and I left for our 3-day road trip to McComb, Mississippi.

A few nights prior to leaving, Deacon had been waking up more than normal in the middle of the night, crying out in pain. He was his happy self during the days sometimes acting a little more fussy and clingy—but around 7 months we read that babies go through that stage—so didn’t think much of it. He didn’t have a temperature but Jason and I both noticed that he would tug more at his ear {he will sometimes do that when he’s tired}. So before we drove out of state I took him into the Urgent Care Saturday morning…just as suspected, the poor little guy had an ear infection.

Just Great. Not the best news with traveling.

We picked up his prescription, gave him some Tylenol, packed up the car and made our way out of Az. We drove 8 hours on day one. Luckily we only had to stop three times with the last stop being our final destination in Van Horn, Texas. We had traveled the deserts of Arizona, New Mexico and finally made our way into Texas. What a trooper that little guy was!

Sunday. May 30. Day 2.

It was a bit longer; driving the whole time through Texas, more than 9 hours but once again Deacon did great-(& only stopping 3 times) -- until that last 40-45mins. As we were heading to my aunt and uncles in Houston for the night, he just lost it. It was just like something from a movie; in a new city, searching for freeways, trying to pay attention to street signs, calming a crying baby and driving in the pouring rain. It was quite a drive.

{no pictures of New Mexico & Texas cause the camera was packed away somewhere in the car. =(--we'll have to take some on our way back...plus, in the words of my mom, "its much prettier once you get past San Antonio." ha.ha.}

Earlier that day as we were making our way to the next town, Jason and I looked at each other and knew that Deacon had a ‘pooper’. Holding our breath we finally made it to where we’d stop to eat some lunch. We pulled D out of his car seat and oh man! There was poop everywhere! Apparently ‘someone’ (I think it was me) didn’t put the diaper on straight and it made quite the mess. All over his car seat, his legs, his shorts, his little onesie. Yuck! Jason held him up while I carefully removed the layers & gave him a little bath of baby wipes right there in the parking lot. After he was all cleaned up he was sitting in the front passenger seat facing out, while I searched for a new diaper just as I was about to turn and put it on him he shot the longest, largest stream of pee. {just to give a little visual.. if there were a car parked next to us, it definitely would have hit the car door}. It was hilarious. And there our little naked D sat with a perfectly happy, content look on his face.

It took Jason a minute to find the camera, so most of it dried up. But that wet spot on the concrete, yep, that was from Deacon.

Craziest Sonic we've ever seen...an inside eating area with a playground. Strange.

Monday. May 31. Day 3.

We thought that by day three of being stuck in his car seat he throw a fit when we put him in there, but he was happy & laughing when we left the next morning. With only 6 hours of traveling {making our way out of Texas, through Louisiana and into Mississippi} before meeting up with the guys it was a great last leg of the journey. Jason and I were both antsy with it getting so close. I’ve been through Texas before, years ago, but never have driven beyond. And, Oh my gosh what a sight! Jason and I were just blown away with Louisiana. Half of the I-10 is a bridge over rivers and marshes. It was beautiful. But we both thought kind of funny-we had our eyes out on the look out for the Gators and were hoping for NO hurricanes.

To the left of that grey truck is ocean.

On the bridge over the marshes & half of Louisiana.

The Mississippi River.

That saying, ‘when it rains, it pours’ could never be more true here in the south. We were driving through Louisiana and saw a dark cloud coming our way; it was either smog or rain. A few minutes later a few raindrops hit the windshield and not more than 10 seconds later we could barely see the car in front of us. It was raining SO hard. [We prayed. At least I did.] We were a little scared. Shortly after that cloud passed over us. And we were seeing the sun once again.

After getting settled in the hotel Monday evening in McComb Mississippi, we heard sirens. Jason immediately thought, “TORNADO!” {it had been cloudy} I tried to calm his nerves with “maybe its just a drill, to make sure they are working like they do in Hawaii.” Come to find out, sure enough Jason as right—it was a Tornado warning. Thankfully it was just a warning. The storm had passed and we were safe.

Although we were both really nervous with driving for 3 days with a 7 ½ month old, Deacon did great! We had to stop about every 3 hours to let the little guy out of his car seat and stretch. He was the happiest little dude on earth when we took him out. Giving us big hugs and smiles. He even went back in his seat in pretty good spirits. He was a very good napper too—sleeping about 2 hours then just entertaining himself for an hour when he’d wake up. We are both thankful that he did so well!

Jason and I will be married for 4 years come this November, and this was our first road trip together {the hour long trips into Honolulu when we lived in Hawaii don’t count}. It was a great trip. With Jason studying like a mad man & us barely seeing each other over the past 2 months, it was so fun to be able to talk and laugh together. And just enjoy each other’s company. He was crackin' me up with his critiques of each state we'd pass through, "I don't like New Mexico, I don't like Texas, I don't like Louisiana." Due to crazy drivers, bumps on the interstate, or getting confused with directions. [I'm a pretty good navigator, but he just wouldnt trust me.] I love him. So grateful for my best friend.

So here we are. Already moved to our second hotel, the Days Inn {not the nicest, but recently renovated and with being in a little town what do you expect} and a little bit further north, Brookhaven, MS. The managers put Jason in quite the area yesterday. The guys each have a section of neighborhoods in the towns and he was working close to the projects. He said as it started to get dark with the sun setting he had a couple of older people tell him he should get out of the area. He was waiting for his ride & one told him while he was waiting “you should go hide in the field”. Luckily he made it home safe. This summer will be an adventure that’s for sure.

While he’s out during the day and until the sun sets Deacon & I get to sit in the hotel. We would enjoy some time outside, maybe pool side, but with it being the start of hurricane season for the past 2 days it has been cloudy with rain in the afternoons/evenings. Deacon and I play together and when he naps, since I didn’t bring my sewing machine, I decided it would be a great time to read, journal by way of blogging and enjoy a nap myself.

So here’s to a summer of working & hotel living in the South.

LOST

2010-06-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

For the past 6 years Jason & I have dedicated our

time to a great TV series.

We anticipated Wednesday nights at 8. Even through school, we would get all our studying done or take breaks and rush home to watch. It would be the hot topic of conversations at church, at school, at play. We would have friends over for enchiladas and LOST.

And now it has come to an end.

For the season finale Jason and I got together with

Kevin & Heather Baker.

[The little ones were put to bed shortly after it started, we had to minimize all distractions.]

Earlier that day, I made a homemade yellow cake and with the help of my mom, Jason and Valerie we paid our final tribute to the show.

Although not completely satisfied with the ending {still lots of questions unanswered that we might just have to watch all the seasons again}, Jason & I thought it was a good finale.

Thank you to LOST and for the last 6 years.

the past couple of months

2010-06-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

I've been slacking terribly on my "journal-ing". So, heres what's been going on.

April.

{that flash took him by surprise & I know so ghetto, his hat's a little too small but it was cold & I couldn't find his beanie}

We started out by celebrating Easter weekend by going to the Mesa Easter Pageant. We hadn't been in years. It was a great way to start off the Easter weekend. And with all the people in attendance, we ran into some friends that lived in our building & ward in Hawaii, the Andersons, as well as the Danielsons.

Easter Sunday we got to spend with both of our families. We watched the morning session of General Conference with the Ellsworths and then spent the afternoon watching it at my parents. Followed by a traditional ham, funeral potatoes and asparagus & rhodes rolls Easter dinner. To be topped off with requested homemade Lemon ice cream & the traditional chocolate bunny cake. Yum!

Thank you to Aunt Natalie & Uncle Justin for the Easter basket!

We cant believe its already been half of a year,

Deacon turned 6 months old!

We took him in for his check up-- Weight: 18.5 lbs. Lenght: 28 inches long.

We celebrated Valeries Birthday with having a barbeque at Tressa & TJs house followed by a rousing game of Trival Pursuit.{half of us hated the game. getting the most difficult questions. questions like that would be the million dollar question in 'who wants to be a millionaire'. while the other half got questions like, "how many days in a week." seriously. oh well, we tried to put on a good face anyhow.}

A week later we celebrated Marcs birthday with pizza and several rounds of Blongo ball {a game}. And sneaking peeks at the Suns game playing inside.--So happy they won.

With Tressa's due date just around the corner Jen threw her a beautiful baby shower.

May.

With Mothers Day coming up, we decided to have a little photo shoot of Deacon and give a picture or two to our mothers.-they were both saying how they wanted pictures of D. He started out being SO serious but ended up taking some really cute ones.{This picture puts a smile on my face every time I look at it. ha ha.}

We attempted to take Deacons 7 month old pictures..he just wanted to talk & then we just ended up playing.

He absolutely loves it when Jason throws him up in the air.

Since there isn't a routine check up for 7 months, Jason & I weighed and measured his length ourselves, after all it isn't very scientific. D weighed 19.5 lbs and was 28.5 inches long. Deacon is such a joy in our lives. He is always happy. He already has 4 teeth-two on the bottom & two on the top; which makes him look so grown up.

And we celebrated Mothers Day with the wonderful women in our lives. {see below}

Mothers

2010-05-23T15:19:00.000-07:00

On Mothers day, in years past after sacrament meetings they would hand out chocolates or flowers to the mothers and future mothers. I always tried to avoid that. I wasn't a mom. And felt awkward standing up so the youth would come by and bring me something.

I finally 'earned' that chocolate.

This year was my first 'real' mothers day.

It was lovely.

The night prior too, my Nonny called to wish me my first Happy Mothers day. She said all of her granddaughters that were new moms were on her mind. How thoughtful. I love her.

The morning of Jason let me sleep in. He made me my favorite...waffles with fruit on top for breakfast {even though they were the toaster kind, they were delicious!}. We went to my parents ward for church. Sacrament meeting left me feeling hopeful and powerful with inspirational talks about the women before me. My mom was giving the lesson in Relief Society so I wanted to stay and listen in. Deacon was being a little stinker so Jason took him home so I could stay & enjoy the lesson.

With it being Mothers day, missionaries are allowed to call home so we got to talk to Kendilyn. It was so good to hear her voice & hear about her progress in the mission. She is doing wonderfully and Loves serving the people of Portland. I can't believe she has already been gone 4+ months.

On this beautiful day we got to spend the day with the women we love....in the morning we spent time with my mom. In the afternoon we were able to go visit my grandma. Her health has not been very good for months now (she fell and broke her hip back in December) But she was bright and sunny. And thrilled with the chocolate she received from dad and the women in her ward. And in the evening we got to spend some time with Valerie.

We are so grateful for each of the women in our lives. For their unconditional love to us. For their incredible example of faith, hope and charity. And for their inspiration to do and be better. We love you!

I am so grateful to be a mom to this sweet little guy.

SUNS

2010-05-13T16:18:00.000-07:00

We're pretty excited about the playoff season the Phoenix Suns are having!

Our evenings were filled with watching each game intently. And when they start back up again, we'll be there once again too.

Now they just have to sweep the Lakers like they did the Spurs.

Thanks uncle Josh for the jersey!

Ducks.

2010-05-05T16:31:00.000-07:00

Although Deacon might be a little too young, we took him a few weekends ago to the ASU research park to feed the ducks.

that one scared me. jason said "dont worry, but they bite."
quick! take a picture.
Ah! there he is again.

Warming up....

2010-04-11T15:50:00.000-07:00

As the temperature begins to rise here in Arizona we have tried to take advantage of the last "nice" days outside before things get too hot.

While I was working Michelle was getting creative. She has made some onsies for Deacon like the one above. They have turned out really cool! She obtained the idea from a friend of ours blog (Thanks Cheryl).

We recently were able to enjoy the outdoors doing a hike in the Superstition Mountains just a half hour from the house. My mom watched Deacon while we hiked close to Weavers Needle.

"Weaver's Needle has played a significant role in the stories of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. The Needle's shadow reportedly indicates the location of a rich vein of gold, and many treasure hunters have searched for it. The hunt for gold around Weaver's Needle has been pursued by hundreds (possibly thousands) of people and the area is packed with prospect holes and abandoned camp sites, spent cartridge shells, and possibly missing persons." (most trusted source on-line......wikipedia.)

While we did not find any Gold or "missing persons " we had a great time getting out seeing nature at its best.

Date Night??

2010-04-08T06:19:00.000-07:00

Jason and I try to 'go on a Date' once a week.

This we learned from our former Bishop. He and his wife are great examples, in all things, but in the many years they have been married they can count the number of times they have missed date night on 2 hands. How wonderful!

Since Deacon has been born we haven't been the best at this. Since D is getting older its allowing Jason and I to finally get back into the swing of things...even if we get to bring him along or do something at home.
We do anything from going out to eat to watching a movie at home or in the theater to walking around Target {yes, I am PERFECTLY fine with that being a date} to arts and crafts. I just love the time I get to spend with Jason and Deacon.

We have been able to go out to eat at AZ88--we love that place. It has great memories of when we were dating. Going to see Avatar in 3D with all the Ellsworth men --thank you for letting me tag along.
A few weeks ago, Grandma Valerie watched little D while Jason and I went to see Alice in Wonderland. Jason claimed to have rented out the theater...we were the only 2 in the whole thing. It was great. {I guess thats what happens when you go see a movie on a Wednesday night.}

Despite the critiques and the reviews we both really enjoyed it.

Last week we went to watch our nephew Tate play in his T-Ball game. {He was so cute & did great} Afterward we went out to eat at a favorite place of ours..even though this is the first time we'd been in years....
It was delicious, just like we remembered it. With the most amazing salsa verde and spinach cheese sauce. Yum! Not only was dinner so good, but the company was even better. It was great to spend some time with Jason as well as little D.

5 months.

2010-03-13T15:07:00.000-08:00

Its been 5 months since we've had this little joy in our lives.

We just LOVE him to pieces and are so grateful he's a part of our family!
Happy 5 months little Dude!

At his {very late...(2wks ago)} 4 month check up Deacon was
weighing in at 17lbs 1 oz. {75 percentile}
and
27 inches long {93 percentile}.
He also got a few shots. I'm happy the nurse did them quickly. The poor little guy was not happy. And my heart just broke a little to see him in pain.

Deacon has recently discovered that he has toes. Although he'd love to suck on them, he cant quite get them in his mouth just yet. But he Loves to reach for them.

He started eating rice cereal. And like it. We're excited to move up from cereal and try something else {fruits & veggies} soon.

Not quite sure what his hair color is..in some light it looks auburn-like in others it's brown.

Around 4 1/2 months these two beauties crept their way into his mouth.
He was getting a little more fussy, his sleeping pattern had changed a little and he started loving sucking on his {or anyone he could get his hands onto} fingers, but I didn't think much of it. I'd been asked a few times if he was teething, but I thought he was too young. I was wrong. And one morning I really felt it..they just poked their way through over night. Thankfully they didn't bother him. He must have a strong tolerance for pain, thank goodness!

And he's finally tall enough to play in this amazing toy! He is fascinated by the all the fun things on this saucer. And he loves to use it to bounce.
{huge thank you to Bill and Tara for this great toy!}

--D loves to look at everything. Every time we enter a new room his head goes back & forth at lightening speed.
--He is quite the talker. Although we can't understand him he could talk for hours.
--Constantly learning & making new sounds. He tries hard to mimic the sounds of everyone around him.
--Loves to blow bubbles with his saliva.
--Loves to roll his tongue over his 2 new teeth often sticking it out at us.

The other day D and I went for a walk around the neighborhood and around the park. He started getting fussy and tired of being in the Baby Bjourn but by the time we got home his is how the walk ended.

The tricky part was getting him out without waking him...
I was unsuccessful.
It was a short nap.

Cereal Already?

2010-03-12T16:52:00.000-08:00

With his little teeth coming in we thought that might be an indicator that its time to try some rice cereal. {That and we remembered the Wilburs had Channing try cereal around the same time and he had slept really good; we were hoping for the same. =] }

On Tuesday March 9th Jason went out and got cereal and new spoons. He was a little hesitant at first but after a few 'bite' {slurps} Jason couldn't feed him fast enough. Deacon was practically diving in for it.

He likes it!

Just one thing...unlike little Channing we're stilling waiting for him to sleep from sun down to past sun up. Guess the cereal isn't quite as filling as we had hoped!

Deacon Turns 3 months and then 4

2010-02-25T07:56:00.000-08:00

So it has been a while since we have posted anything on the blog..... I hope that we don't wait so long for the next post. We have moved back from Hawaii and are now living with the parents for a couple of months.

It has been so long since a post; Deacon has turned 3 and now 4 months old.

In the last two months Deacon has been getting really good at the balancing trick (some people are not fans of this but its fun and he smiles ear to ear at 'his' accomplishment).
Matt and Gina gave Deacon this cool outfit. He looked really good.
The above is Deacon at his 4 Month photo shoot. He is getting so chunky.

He's been bitting his bottom lip and 'chewing' on his 2 little fingers more often, to which we have noticed....

This last week Deacon has two teeth on the bottom (Hard to see in this pic but, they are there) He is growing up so fast.

Why is it when we were kids the summers dragged on and on and now that we are older it feels as if we run by a different clock?

Success!

2010-01-14T15:23:00.001-08:00

On December 18th 2009 Jason completed his Bachelors Degree at

Brigham Young University-Hawaii in Pre-Professional Biology

with a minor in BioChemistry.

We are So proud.

Is this almost over?...

The Proof.

The Graduate!

The Proud Wife.

The Proud Parents.

"My Dad is Rad". The Proud Son.

The Gang.

So sad. And so big.

2009-12-15T16:49:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday Deacon turned 2 months old. And with that comes the dreaded 2 month check up and shots.

{After taking Immunology last year in school Jason and I decided not to forgo getting his immunizations.}

He handled the first shot pretty well, just let out a little cry then calmed down, it was the next 2 that were doosies. He cried. Not for very long due to rocking & bouncing him followed by putting him in his car seat and rocking him some more which put him right to sleep.

Poor little guy.

As far as his stats goes:

he weighed in at 12 lbs, 14 oz. and he is 23 1/2 inches long.

(They didn't give us the percentiles, but he is quite long)

These past few weeks he has grown so much. He's smiling more. Not just gassy smiles, real ones. He's more alert. More active, kicking his legs and moving his arms until you feel like they could fall off. And 'talking'--well, cooing. And when he does, it just makes our hearts melt, its the best part of the day!

We love when he's awake and 'playing' with us, but we also just love it when he falls asleep on us.

Our little guy

2009-12-06T21:42:00.001-08:00

Well not only is Deacon warming up to the bath he warms it himself. We both have had to sheild ourselves a number of times=).

He even has started to like his vibrating chair! (Thanks Eric and Tish)

While I was studying for a test Michelle, Lauren, and Trevor had a little fun with Deacon and I really liked this one. He has an excellent grip.

Don't let the smiles fool you, he is a handful =) and we just love him so much!

Last visitors in Hawaii

2009-12-06T21:17:00.001-08:00

With only a couple of months (now weeks) left in hawaii we had some visitors. My Mom, Matt, and Arianna all got to meet Deacon and hit the beach for a little bit. With school going we were not able to hang out much but, we had a great time. It is just too bad there are selfish people that have to steal things.......but we still made it to get ice cream at the dole plantation!

(Above) Grandma and Deacon sharing some love with his new blanket that she made for him. We are grateful for Grandma and Mimi for making our little guy blankets that he will be able to cherish.

See you all very soon! =)

Christmas Card Photo Shoot

2009-12-05T15:37:00.000-08:00

Just a few snapshots from our photo shoot for our Christmas card...{that we never ended up making. ha.}

And this is how we ended the day...Jason in Tara's Snuggie.

Thanksgiving Week

2009-12-01T15:39:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving week has become very busy. Which we love.

We started it off by celebrating our 3rd anniversary on Sunday the 22nd.

Then Laurens Birthday on the 23rd. With a delicious cake from Ted's Bakery...her favorite place...with a handwritten "Happy Birthday Lauren" from Ted himself. {at least thats what Trevor said}. The candles were forgotten, so we improvised with using a candle they had at their house. ha.

Thursday the 26th was Thanksgiving. And it was fabulous! There was plenty of food and fun company. It was fun to have more family in town-Laurens parents came into town as Lauren, Trevor and Justin live here. And with Kendilyn living in Hawaii we got to spend Thanksgiving with another Bullock. A few of Lauren's R.A.'s got to join us as well as Kendilyn's roommate Stacey.
After dinner we all 'vegged'. The boys watched a little football....while some of the Ladies {the cooks} rested.

Trevors birthday is the 27th. We celebrated with him that night with another Thanksgiving feast for dinner followed by some yummy desserts. Again, the candles were forgotten, opps! So that candle that was used for Laurens birthday came quite handy.
This bag has kinda become the joke with us...just that its used for everyone for every birthday. And with us leaving the island soon, this was going to the last time we were going to be involved with using it. =(

Called to Serve.

2009-11-30T16:57:00.001-08:00

My younger sister Kendilyn had been thinking and praying about serving a mission for our church for about a year. Every time she considered going she just felt it wasn't the right time, until now.

She completed all she needed to to 'turn her papers in' and while my mom was here visiting Kendilyn received a large envelope from church headquarters on Friday October 30th.

With family (those here in Hawaii and the others on speaker phone from everywhere else) and friends gathered around she opened her call.

And for some strange, ironic reason she was called to serve in the same mission our older brother Trevor served in...Portland Oregon.

She reports to the missionary training center on February 3th 2010 and will be serving for 18 months.

We are very excited for her and know that she will be a wonderful missionary.

The Envelope.

The Shock.

The Call.

{Note: its not signed by the President. oops.}

Congrats Kendal!

3 years.

2009-11-22T20:08:00.000-08:00

3 years ago today I married my best friend.

Best decision I've ever made.

I love him.

1 month already!

2009-11-14T18:32:00.000-08:00

You know how people say that time just flies, that they don't stay little forever? Its true. I can hardly believe that it has already been a month since we were in the hospital and seeing our little guy for the first time. He really has grown a lot since then.

When he was born he was 8 lbs 3.6 oz and 21 1/2 inches long.

At his 1 month check up this week Deacon was weighing in at exactly 10 lbs and 22 inches long. Before he was long and lean, now he's started to pack on the little rolls and get a little tummy; its adorable.

A few pictures from the past month.

Sleeping just like his dad, with his mouth open.

Jason trying to prevent Deacon from getting wrinkles.

Big Yawns.

Big Smiles.

Deacon started it!

Nana.... Mimi..... what's next? =)

2009-11-14T17:52:00.000-08:00

Halloween weekend my mom was able to come out to see her first grand baby.

While she was here we (Kendilyn, Trevor, Lauren, Jason and I) tried to come up with a name the grand babies would know my mom as. She knocked down every name we threw out there, Nonny, Gigi, MiMi, Marmi, Momo (mom's mom), etc. Finally on Sunday we came up with something...Kendilyn, my mom and I wanted to bake some rolls for Sunday dinner, we opened up "Nonnys Cookbook" and decided to use the recipe "Nana's Rolls" (my moms grandma). After much contemplation and deliberation of what the grandbabies would call my mom, Kendilyn and I said, "what about Nana?!" I dont know how much she likes it, but we think its here to stay.

Im sorry if you got bored here mom; instead of going to the beach and site seeing we spent most of our time inside and just walking around Laie. Thank you for the beautiful quilt you spent many hours making. Thank you for the walks and talks. Thank you for the help. And most importantly, thank you for taking the time and coming out! I love you!

Guess the name didn't "stay" for very long; its now Mimi!

Halloween festivities

2009-11-01T12:33:00.000-08:00

So we did our traditional 5 min costume. (Charlie from LOST and a Hippie)

Kendi (red) and friends as Wii characters

Just want to eat him up!

Just before the carmel bath!

I did the right side, Michelle the left

The first 10 days

2009-10-24T20:58:00.000-07:00

Deacon has been so good to Michelle and I (He has his moments). He is waking up about once a night so we are enjoying that. Many people have told us that they like to trick you so we hope he does not decide to switch things up.

I almost think Michelle wants to wake up more often...........I say this because last night I woke up in the middle of the night and I saw Michelle sitting up cradling the baby (so I thought) It turns out she was sleeping sitting up with her arms as if she was holding Deacon to feed. It was the funniest thing. I guess she said the night before she woke up doing the exact same thing. What a kook!

Deacon Kai Ellsworth

2009-10-17T15:18:00.000-07:00

The above picture is Deacon getting ready for his first sponge bath at home!

This was the calm before the storm.

All better! He loved his new duck towel =)

Lauren (sister -in-law) says I (Jason) have a good stink eye when I am not amused. This is my little guy in training.

Michelle holding baby Deacon shortly after he was born.

I keep debating on if I should tell the story or Michelle. She is sleeping right next to me so here goes my point of view...
I have been pretty busy at school this last semester so I have not had much time at home. I have told Michelle a number of times that my phone is on loud and to call me if anything happens. So I am in the BioChem lab on campus Monday evening (Oct.12) and I get a text.."How much longer do you think you'll be"? So I respond that I just finished lab and I would be starting homework. She then tells me "I think my water broke". I was not too worried as this was done all over text and she did not seem nervous (and she was not sure as it was a very small amount). I suggested she walk over to Trevor and Lauren's house (not too far but, a little walk). I soon found myself not being able to concentrate and so I left on my way over to their house as well. I get there and she is having contractions so we decide to time them and call the birthing center to tell them all that was going on and if we should make our 50 min drive down to see them (we did not want to go because we have heard when its your first baby they do not take you very serious and its a long drive). After Lauren gave Michelle probably her best massage ever, we went to our house picked up our things and headed on our way. We get there and I do not bring anything in with us as I am sure they are just going to be sending us right on back home (Michelle's contractions were like 10 min apart). We get seen in the triage room and sure enough the nurse says "you guys aren't going anywhere, lets get you settled into one of our suites" =). We were very excited! After a while the doctor came in and decided to finish breaking Michelle's water and the contractions slowly built. Deacon was on Michelle's sciatic nerve causing more pain in her legs making that more intense than the contractions. Michelle wanted to do it without the epidural but, the pain in her legs was just too much. The epidural was put in place around 4am (she made it to just about 8 cm so I was impressed). Michelle did not have any problems with the epidural and was so glad she got it. We then got a few off and on moments of shut eye. Around 7 am she was checked again and was at a 10! The doctor and nurse decided that they weren't going to do anything and let her body 'labor down' on its own. Within the next hour the nurse set her up for pushing and we (she) was on her way. The craziest thing was the amount of time it was just Michelle and I doing the pushing process. She would tell me she felt the urge to push, I would look at the monitor, see that she was infact contracting and I would hold her up and count to ten 3 times with a deep breath spaced between each push. If I had to put an honest guess it was just her and I in there 50% of the time alone (exaggeration 75% but, I liked it just being her and I). The doctor was really busy so when Michelle was just about ready for the last push or two the nurse said "hold on we need to wait". Michelle being her sweet self was very understanding but then after 5 min she says to the nurse "OK, WHERE IS THE DOCTOR I AM PUSHING!" The doctor came in a few minutes later and 2 pushes later our little guy was here. [I do have to say I am glad I caught a few TLC birthing episodes before hand because babies are freaky blue when they come out so I was prepared.]

So Deacon Kai was born October 13, 2009 at 11:04am.

8lbs 3.6oz and 21 1/2 inches long.

Everyone in our family has been really helpful. Thanks you Trevor, Lauren, and Kendal for cleaning our house and helping out so much! Also thanks to our 5th ward for all the food and support.

I still cannot believe that we have a baby.
I truly love him so much! And of course my beautiful wife..... She is amazing! I love you Michelle!

Recently.

2009-10-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

Time for an update...

Jason is in his last semester of his undergrad program! Woohoo! He had high hopes that by only taking 6 credits it would a breeze & he would be able to spend more time at home...umm. Not so much. We rarely see each other.

His time is filled with a class for his job, concluding his Senior Research and BioChemistry and BioChemistry Lab, which is giving him his minor, but taking ALL of his time. He leaves the house sometimes before 8am and (if Im lucky I get to have lunch with him) usually don't see him until after 11pm. He has homework and quizzes and meetings and works on top of that.

He's working very hard and I am So proud of him!

We also had some visitors from the mainland, The Gordons and the Halls. My cousins, Melanie and Kirsten, with their husbands (& babies). We were able to meet up and go to dinner. It was great to see them again and catch up! I just cant believe we didnt take one picture while they were here. =(

As for me...Im 39 weeks pregnant today. And definitely feeling it....although this is the first time I've ever felt it. Our little man has run out of room, taking over all of my abdomen and then some. Its been so great (and at times weird) to feel him move so much. The doctors say I'm progressing well, dilating a centimeter every week for the past 3 weeks. So 3 cm dilated and 75-80% effaced as of last Tuesday. I have been having random & mild contractions, nothing consistent or unbearable as of yet. My doctor said our little one could come any day now.

I'm nervous for the delivery and the 'unknown' of when he'll come, I secretly get more nervous before going to bed. With the more than likely possibility of waking up in the middle of the night or the wee hours of the morning to terrible contractions. But I'm excited for the "prize" Jason & I will get in the end.

To fill my time, since I quit my job a bit ago, I think the whole "nesting" thing has come into play. I clean our apartment about every day. The other day I really went nuts and cleaned all our windows, the window screens, washed the curtains and duct taped the screens to the wall (the screen here in Hawaii have a tendency not to fit quite right & I wasn't about to 'allow' any type of creepy crawly find its way into our house with the little guy on his way). I have washed all of his clothes, set up a little nursery-well a spot in our room for his crib & things and a drawer in our dresser for his clothes. (hey, we live in a one bedroom apt). And am constantly double checking our hospital bags to make sure we have everything ready.

Let the countdown begin.

With Jason being so busy, especially this past week and weekend with a BioChemistry exam, white glove inspections he had to do at work, senior research--he continuously reminds me every day that he has his phone on 'loud' if I need to get a hold of him. For Jasons sake, thankfully the baby listened to his request of waiting until at least today for his big debut. Nothing as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.

We are so excited to welcome him into our family and cant wait for him!

A House Full of Fun...

2009-10-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had quite the house full of family. We got word a few months ago that Jasons Grandma and Aunt Gina had planned a trip out here to Hawaii. So we talked Valerie and Marc to come out as well (Jasons parents). Tickets were a pretty good price so Jasons sister Tressa and her husband TJ decided to come out too. Thats right...we had a total of 8 people in our one bedroom apartment. It was a bit hectic at times, but so fun to be all together and have them here!

Some of the highlights included:

--Dinner at Haliewa Eats & Sunset at Keikiks

--We had a blast riding scooters around the Honolulu/Waikiki area. --we'll have to get more of those from Valerie)

This ones for you Kristin...note the helmet. =]

Jason & His mom, Valerie

--Pearl Harbor

Marc & Valerie.

A late lunch with a beautiful view after touring Peal Harbor.

Tressa & TJ. Overlooking Hanauma Bay.

--The Blowhole on the East Side.

--Hiked to the Lighthouse.

We did it! Grandma Cleora, at 82 years old, and myself, at 35 weeks pregnant, made it to the top.

The view at the top is gorgeous...

But she wasnt too impressed with the finale.

Ha ha.

--Polynesia Cultural Center.

Waiting for the Night Show to start...Jason, Gina, Grandma Cleora and Valerie

All of us with our Tattoos..Michelle, Gina, Tressa, TJ & Jason.

--Shark Diving, only some of us did that...Marc, Valerie, Jason, TJ & Tressa. The rest of us,

Gina, Cleora & I went to Sharks Cove for some snorkeling.

--Beach Day!

--Baby Shower

--The ladies hiked up to Waimea Falls while the men snorkeled and played at Waimea Bay.

It was So great to have them all here with us in Hawaii! It gave us a chance to play tourist one last time before the baby comes and as our time here comes to an end.

"Under the Sea"...Baby Shower!

2009-09-17T16:25:00.001-07:00

Lauren & Kendilyn threw me the most beautiful baby shower a few nights ago, Sept. 14.

It was a "Whale/Under The Sea" theme.. Including all the fixin's... homemade sail boats, whale crackers, a chocolate fountain, bubbles, little umbrellas for the drinks...Adorable! No detail was left untouched, a huge Thank you to the both of you for the time, effort and creativity you put into it! It was perfect!

And thank you to all of you that came! =)

Sarah & I.

Nanako, Eryi, Francis and Sione

Tara, Aushra and Jen

Jasons Mom, Valerie & sister Tressa.

Camping?!

2009-09-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to go camping for a while now, but its been too hot! and lets face it, we just havent taken the time to plan it & my belly (the baby) is not getting any smaller. So for our date night last weekend, I told Jason that I had it covered. He ended up having to work Saturday evening which worked out perfectly. While he was at work, I went to work myself.

(Yup, thats whiteout.)

I had originally planned on us making foil dinners, but it just didn't sound appetizing at the time so we made homemade buffalo wings (thanks for the recipe Trevor! They turned out really good). While our food settled we played some Uno under the stars (hanging from our homemade tent). And lets just say Jason was a good sport to loose terribly to me. Ha ha.

We finished the evening by our "campfire" roasting marshmallows and eating Smores.

For not actually being out camping in the woods, it still was a great time spent with one another.

Keeping Active

2009-08-26T17:04:00.001-07:00

I dont know exactly where this 'tennis itch' came from, but within the last few weeks, {in the evenings} you're likely to find us out on the courts as we all play a couple of times a week. Its become a slight addiction.

My times on the court have definitely slowed down--with the growing belly getting in the way of running around and bending down to pick up the balls.

But its been a great way to get outdoors and get some exercise.

Another Year??

2009-08-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

My sister called to wish me a Happy 25th Birthday on Monday, I wish she were right...she was a year too late as this year I've turned a quarter of a century plus one.

The big 26.

Weird.

Our night away in Honolulu the weekend before was the perfect present, especially since Jason had class and work on Monday so we didn't get to spend time together until that night. Since everyone was busy that day I decided to work a few hours myself but that night we had some family and friends over for dinner and some activities.

We made my favorite ice cream, my great grandmothers recipe--Lemon Cream Shebert {THE most delicious you'll ever eat!!!} and decorated our own cakes with homemade fondant. All Jasons idea which was perfect cause he knows how much I LOVE desserts!

Everyone took turns shaking a ziplock bag until it was nice and ice creamy. We all deserved ice cream as we all burnt off the calories before eating.

We really like the show Ace of Cakes so Jason really wanted to make a cake that we could put fondant over. I helped Jason find a recipe and he went to work. The fondant turned out pretty good (good job Jay!). And we made personal cakes so that everyone could make their own "Ace of Cake".

The creative geniuses at work...Decorating our own "Ace of Cake".

Thanks to everyone for coming over and helping to celebrate, and for the Birthday wishes!

It was a very happy Birthday!

Just What the Doctor Ordered!

2009-08-19T13:57:00.001-07:00

Jason and I decided that we both needed a night away. We decided that with the baby coming less than 2 months {and as a birthday retreat} we needed some time to relax and to relax together. This past weekend we got a great deal on a hotel in Honolulu for a night (an hour away for our version of a vacation) and headed on down. The moment we got there we immediately headed for the pool. Neither of us had been a pool for over a year. We spent quite a bit of time there and enjoying watching some MTV in our room.(We don't get that channel in our student housing. haha). Later we went over to the mall and then out for dinner and dessert. It was great time away from schedules, our phones and the norm and away from Laie; if only for 24 hours.

The view from our room, 32 stories up.

The elevators; they freaked me out to ride (I swear I felt like the wind was going to make the elevator detach and sway us right off the side of the hotel!), but Jason LOVED them!

31 week Photoshoot. (end of the 7th month)

2009-08-17T19:45:00.001-07:00

A HUGE Thank You to Jason for taking these photos!

Bittersweet

2009-08-04T15:24:00.000-07:00

Jason & I have been SO blessed to have shared the first {almost} 3 years of our marriage out here in Laie, Hawaii. We have gained an education, life long friendships and a stronger relationship with one another.

Come this December it will be time for change; Jason will complete his bachelors degree and we will be moving on from this amazing place.

We are thrilled to move to the mainland and be closer to family and friends there, but when Jason brought home the printed confirmation of our ONE WAY flight back to AZ tears came to my eyes. {And even as I'm writing this, they are flowing back.} Hawaii has been our home. And always will be.

For now, for the next 4 1/2 months, we will embrace everything we can while here. Enjoying the sun, the numerous beaches, the friends, the smells of the plumerias & the gardenias, the sunsets, our small apartment, our nightly walks around town, the hour long drive to more civilization (Honolulu), the random showers of rain, the wonderful breezes, the short walk to the temple as well as the view, the fresh coconut, pineapple and mangos, the T.V.A lifestyle, trips to Foodland for melona bars, and our life together.

3D ULTRASOUND

2009-07-22T21:36:00.001-07:00

Just about 28 weeks along (7 months)I cant believe it!

And its just going to get bigger!

What a 4th!

2009-07-15T14:28:00.000-07:00

For the 4th of July Jason had a work meeting at 7am after which, he came home and we decided to enjoy some much needed sleeping in. Once we got up and got going we headed to the beach to soak up some sun then met up with some friends & family (the Bullocks, Holladays and Johnsons) to go spear fishing. Afterward we headed home to get ready and met up with some friends from our ward to go to dinner for Aushras Birthday. It was a great time & the food was delicious.

The Robins & us then met up with the Bullocks & Holladays, we played Wii and headed out to cause some trouble with our own fireworks show since we all had just barely missed the show at Turtle Bay.

So, Josh & Hayley Wilbur, thank you for your "flowers"!

Jason & David Robins.

Watching Jason box on the Wii is one of the most entertaining things anyone has ever witnessed.

What a bunch of Kooks!

Yes, that is lit and yes, it is in Taras mouth.

For some reason I knew this 4th was going to be different & since we missed having a BBQ and all the typical 4th of july foods, the following Monday I decided we couldn't miss out on it and we enjoyed it for dinner-complete with homemade potato salad, watermelon, chips and hot dogs. It definitely felt more complete. And yes,all in all we had a great 4th this year!

Michelle Graduates!

2009-07-05T19:49:00.000-07:00

Michelle graduated about a month ago to the day. I have failed to post about her graduation until now. Michelle graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Pre-Professional Biology and has the desire to return to school soon. She worked so hard and I am very proud of her !!!! WAY TO GO!

"One Year Older and Wiser Too..."

2009-07-04T14:31:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday To You!

For Jasons birthday this year, we celebrated by sleeping in a little then having a delicious breakfast followed by something neither of us had ever done- Kendilyn joined us and we all went and hiked a new hike, Maunawilies. It was beautiful!

The Fall

right as he was about to jump the camera went dead. =(

Just He and I, dinner at Haliewa Eats; Jasons favorite.

Followed by...

An arousing game of "Yali" (thanks Wilburs!)

(look at the strategic planning)

Beautiful (& delicious) Edible bouquet from Trevor and Lauren.

Cheesecake, And

"Happy Birthday to you..."

[Anyone who knows Jason knows he has amazing lung capacity---except to blow out trick candles. Just look at how exhausted he is. haha.]

And ending the day with the Simpsons.

Happy Birthday Jay!

OK OK HERE THEY ARE!!!

2009-07-02T01:40:00.001-07:00

So we were not going to post pics of my lovely wife

growing at the seams but.........

due to popular demand

5 months along

(About 20 weeks)

Just this last Sunday 6-28-09

(6 Months aka 24 weeks)

On our hike for Jason's birthday, June 30th

(Jason 26 years along)

Family

2009-06-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

So these last couple of weeks have been filled with many visitors from Michelle's family. It all started when Noel came out to run the IRON MAN on the big island with her boyfriend David. Noel aka Nicole aka Nikki did really well and finished in just over 7 hours. the next to fly in was.....I think Kendi followed by the rest Natalie, Justin, Kent(M's Dad), Maralyn (M's Mom), and Josh. They all stayed at a condo at Turtle bay (they had the nicest neighbors in the world... "He who can do this can do anything"). When the whole fam had arrived

We did not waist anytime, we knew there was one place to go in Hawaii ....any guesses? If you said the beach you were way off. It was Gucci and Nike town... Hello!! After shopping we hit up "Dukes" for dinner on the beach. We all went to the beach the next day and the day after and the day after that. Friday we spent the entire day at the PCC. Josh was pulled out of the crowd to drink coconut milk.

On Saturday we put the beach on hold until a little later because two very special Ladies Graduated. The First was Mi Corazon Michelle!!!! and the second our sister-in-law Lauren. CONGRATULATIONS! (more on graduation)

After Graduation and 3 million photos later we had a BBQ on the beach!! It was so good not only the food but, a BBQ on the beach with Family and Friends in Hawaii was amazing.

The rest of the trip was full of adventure. Thank you all for coming out it was a lot of fun!

No more Wilbur shells on da beach!!!!!!

2009-06-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

Hawaii lost two and a half amazing people this last month! Josh and Hayley moved back to Cali =( . Josh will start up his graduate program. We have become really really good friends. (LTF) you can try and figure that out Ba ha ha! We have traveled, Island hopped, made candy apples, surfed, ate, dressed up for Halloween, beached it up, Sunday dinners, sleep overs, talked story, dreamed, planned Disney land vacation, beached it up #2, Ted's, Matsumotos, Haleiwa eats, Keikies, Castles, Easter eggs, Turkey, Baby showered....together, and much much more.

We Love and Miss you both

Devan & Leah!

2009-06-19T00:55:00.000-07:00

It has been quite a busy past few weeks here! So one update at a time...

Memorial Day weekend Devan & Leah came to visit us. They definitely did a lot in a short amount of time. They hit up the must see's and the must do's. From cruising waikiki on scooters to tasting the rainbow hawaiian ice at Motsomotos. I even did something for the first time the honolulu zoo. A few highlights from the weekend included..

Sunsets on the beach,

The Honolulu Zoo.

Renting scooters and touring Waikiki.

And the Lantern Floating Festival in Town.

We're so glad you guys came to visit!!