The Simpson Family

If at first, or second or third, you don't succeed try try again...

2011-11-30T13:21:00.004-07:00

Hey there!!

Yes, I am going to try this yet again!! I read all my friends' blogs and just laugh or cry my head off and I think what is wrong with you, you can do this too! So we'll try again and my goal is to blog once or twice a month or if by some miracle I have something on my mind maybe more than that! This post will be more of an update for everyone to catch up on what is going on in our lives...here we go...

Brian is just working away at the fire dept and of course still loving being a fireman! Last year he bought a lawn care company (you know for when he gets bored, haha) and so this year he had his first full season of mowing. He enjoys it, but I'm not sure if he really wants to continue doing it. The girls are getting older and he's really wanting to spend any extra time with them. I love his heart, he is such an amazing Dad!! He's also staying busy around the house, there is always a project he's working on here!!

I, for those of you who don't know, am expecting our fifth child (I know that confuses you all, but I consider the baby I lost in between Chloe and Hailee one of our children)!! Yes, our house will be one big mess of organized chaos and mushy, gushy love! I can't even begin to tell you how excited we are for this little one! It's a little scary to think that we will have four little ones running around and I know it will be hard work, but oh...I can't wait! This pregnancy has by far been the toughest yet. I have now felt icky for almost eight weeks, by far the longest stretch of any of the other pregnancies. I do feel like we are on the up hill swing of things and I am now 13 1/2 weeks along, almost to that second trimester, wooohooo!! On top of all that the kids' schooling and activities keep going...I volunteer in Chloe's class once a week and try to help out with PTA functions as much as possible too. Both Chloe and Hailee are taking dance this year as well and so I am just a big, sick SUV driving Mom taxi for the two older ones!!

Chloe started 1st grade this year and LOVES it!! The best part...yep, RECESS!! The first week or two lunch at school was pretty cool too, but that has now gotten old, in fact we usually don't even eat an eighth of our lunch because we have to get out to recess!! She is doing really well in school though...reading like crazy, she LOVES math (just like her mom) and thinks science is pretty cool because she loves learning new things about the world around her. On top of school she is in dance for her fourth year and this year she is on a performing team! She is so excited about it, they get to start performing some time in January. A couple weeks ago she brought home her first pair of team sweats and the excitement on her face was the most memorable thing EVER!! It totally reminded me of my excitement the first time I got team sweats!! SOOOO Fun!! On Wednesday nights we go to church and she attends a club called AWANA. In Awana they learn about the Bible and it's truths and memorized Bible verses, they also have game time where they are in teams and play tons of games earning their team points!! She's having a blast and loves to learn and read the Bible, it is such an amazing blessing to see her heart for the Lord!! Last but not least she decided she needed to be a part of her schools JUMP ROPE CLUB, can we say slow down Chloe!! Chloe loves to jump rope and I didn't let her be a part of the club last year because she went to morning Kindergarten and jump rope club is after school and (this is bad) I didn't want to take her back to the school. So I promised her she could do it this year and it only runs from Oct. to the beginning of January. She is one busy little girl, but is having a blast with all her activities and Mom and Dad are definitely keeping an eye on her and making sure she isn't too overwhelmed!

Hailee started preschool this year with our favorite preschool teacher, Miss Carolanne!! She is doing so well, much to my surprise!! I was having some Mom guilt at the beginning of the year because when Chloe entered she could write and spell her name, she could recognise her letters and numbers and Hailee wasn't there yet. Miss Carolanne was so great with me and told me that this is where normal 3 year olds start and Chloe was just an exception to the rule and a first child (we all know that that first child gets all your attention unlike the other children down the line). Well, Hailee is writing and recognising her letters and numbers, her class is up to letter Ee. I'm so proud of her and she comes home and asks if we can do "homework" because she just loves to sit and practice those letters. It is such a joy to my heart to see her learning and writing. I of course knew she was so smart, but to see her learning so quickly is a beautiful thing! Hailee is in dance as well, this is her second year, and right now it's just more of a fun thing to do for her. We'll see as she gets older what she wants to do as an extracuricular. She also just celebrated her 4th Birthday last Saturday! I cannot believe she is 4, it just seems like it has gone by waaaay too fast. She is sweet and sassy and is turning in to such a beautiful little girl!!

Miss Addyson! Where do we start with her? She is 18 months old now and has a personality that you wouldn't believe! Definitely the loudest of the three, but when you're competing for everything the older girls want or have I guess you have to be! No, she really is a blessing to our family. She talks up a storm and has a vocabulary that reminds me of the other girls. All my girls talked so early and I LOVE it!! She still uses her sign language a bit and that helps her a lot! She is my snuggle bug and when she is having a rough day I really try and take advantage of just sitting and rocking with her, chores can definitely wait. Her favorite things are playing with her sisters, her lovey and helping Mom with laundry, yes, she loves to help me move clothes from the washer to the dryer and slamming the door tight! She is a joy for sure, but also takes after Hailee and can be very fiesty!!

Like I said above I will try and be better about blogging. I feel like there are so many people that I would love to keep in touch with better, but you know how life is so if I at least could keep this updated you all would have an idea of what was going on!!

So until next week...or sooner, who knows!! ;)

She's Here...6 months ago ;)!

2010-10-18T15:36:00.008-06:00

Addyson Louise Simpson arrived May 19, 2010 and weighed in at 7 lbs. 14 oz and was 20 1/2 in. long. YAY! Okay so this is not news to everyone...haha...this happened 6 mos ago. I'm am the worlds worst blogger, but I wanted to at least have it on my blog so I could look back! Here's my story...

This pregnancy was probably the hardest of them all, I kept getting sick with all sorts of things, got two hernia's and was in labor for a week, but wouldn't progress because she was face up and stuck in my left hip. I was so excited because I thought I wouldn't need to be induced, I didn't have my high blood pressure issues of the past and was really looking forward to going in to labor on my own. I wanted the whole dramatic "Oh no my water broke" and I'm in the middle of the store or function of some sort, ya no, that didn't happen. The stinker decides to flip in the wrong position and get stuck. Therefore, yep, I had to be induced to get her unstuck. The induction went very normal, just sat there waiting for my body to kick in and once the pitocin got my contractions strong enough to push her by my hip my doctor came in and broke my water. Then, like my body does we sped past GO, didn't collect $200, didn't get an epidural (because some other lady decided to have an allergic reaction to stadol and be rushed in to an emergency c-section, which took away the anesthetist) and pushed that face up little girl out with some of the loudest screams I have ever heard out of myself. I felt so embarassed afterward, but if you ever want to know if it hurts worse when the baby is face up vs. face down...YES!!! All was well though and we have our beautiful 3rd baby girl here and she is amazing! Here are our photos of our hospital stay!!

Last preggo shot...look how huge I got...YIKES!

Brian got to deliver Addyson with the help of Dr. Agrusa...note: if you decide to let your husband deliver your baby make sure you have someone assigned to hold your other leg...not having a leg holder was probably the most annoying part of the whole delivery.

She's out!!

Proud Daddy and great Pseudo Doctor

Addyson and I meeting for the first time...she's telling me how bad it was and I was agreeing with her.

Cheese!

"Hey Dad...thanks for helping me get out, your awesome!"

No pictures please...I need a moment!

Getting all my stats...be gentle with my head!

Meeting the BIG sisters...they were so cute!

Addyson was the first G.Granddaughter that Nana and GG got to see in the hospital. We were so happy they were down from the cabin.

Aunt Sara meeting Addyson

Meagan got to do her first bath

Awwww...I needed this!

All clean and gorgeous!

Aunt Martha was in town and got to be here for her delivery...third times a charm!

Me and my girls...oh goodness, someone should have handed me a mirror before I took all these pictures...YIKES!

Makayla and Alee meeting Addyson

Getting dressed to go home

This is a picture from our photo shoot we had at the hospital. The hospital didn't have picture people any more so Addyson and I had our own photo shoot...not bad, eh!

So...it's been a while...oops!

2010-10-18T14:29:00.003-06:00

As most of you know things have been A LOT better since the last post entitled "Overwhelmed". I'm so sorry it has been over six months since I last wrote anything, not that I think many people are reading, but sorry any way...haha!

Besides waiting for the arrival of Addyson our spring was full of fun. Chloe played T-Ball for the first time and had a blast! Her only complaint..."why doesn't the ball come to me every time?". Ultimately she became quite the little hitter and ended up really enjoying it. Here she is right before her first practice, like the pose?

Of course sister had to jump in.

In the last post you learned of our car accident. Our poor van was hit while sitting in front of my in-laws house. After just a couple of weeks we found a new vehicle and here it is pictured below. We love it and we will be able to fit our family in it comfortably and we will also be able to expand our family in it as well! Our 2000 GMC Yukon...it's so pretty!

The one thing I desperately wanted to get done before the baby was born was to move the girls into the same room. It was so important to me that Hailee be totally comfortable not only in a big girl bed, but in her sister's room before Addyson arrived. Things worked out and they love being roommates, it also made bed time sooooo much easier on Brian and I because they are eager to get us out of there so they can talk and giggle. I love how cute they are!

Still Here!!

2010-04-16T15:15:00.002-06:00

Just wanted you to know that there are new posts and pictures coming. Don't worry the overwhelmed feeling of the last post has settled and things are starting to fall in to place. See/talk/post you soon!!

OVERWHELMED!!

2010-03-24T14:07:00.002-06:00

I am one that is normally very good at keeping my emotions in tact and I handle stress fairly well. My mentality is that God never doles out more than you can handle, but..........right now I am so completely overwhelmed that it's not even funny! I've never felt this way and I don't know how to handle it. I can't explain it either...Brian tried to talk to me about it last night and I just couldn't explain why I was feeling this way. I just laid there in bed next to him and let the tears roll slowly down my cheeks and couldn't say anything because nothing could really explain why I felt this way. We have so much going on in our lives right now, but it's all working out so I don't know why I just feel so overwhelmed. Can anyone explain this?

For those of you who don't know what all is going on here we go...1st, my children cannot get along right now, everything is a fight with screaming, hitting, pinching you name it and the 2 year old is worse than the 5 year old. The only time they seem to be remotely good is when Daddy is home, so needless to say I'm the one who is almost in tears when Brian leaves for work. 2nd, Last Thursday my van got plowed into while parked out on the curb at my in-laws house...the insurance deamed it totaled, but of course we were upside down in the loan and so we not only owe the remaining, but we will have to roll it into another loan when we find a new car. Finding another car...not totally hard, but just add that to the "to do" list and make sure it is within the budget. 3rd, the realization that my oldest is going into Kindergarten next year hit me this week when I turned in all her paperwork and made a Kindergarten Registration appointment for her. I know that one is silly, but not for me! She is still so little and I don't want her to be bullied or worse be the bully and so I go through everything we've taught her in my head about how we treat everyone we meet the way we want to be treated, always share, greet people with a smile always, always use nice words, if you ever have a problem come to Mommy or Daddy or any adult you trust, etc. It's so scary...is she ready?? Academically...YES, Socially...that's a big fat ??. I know I am totally starting to sound crazy...bare with me. 4th, all that nesting and spring cleaning I did...all went to the way side. My house is a mess again and I'm worried that something will happen and I will have the baby way to early and come home to a messy house. I so don't want to do that because since both the other two girls were born during the Holidays when I came home from the hospital the house was a disaster with stuff all over. I just want to come home stress free this time and sit with my three girls on the couch and enjoy the miracles God has blessed us with. Is that really too much to ask?? And finally 5th, I HAVE A BABY DUE IN ABOUT 8 WEEKS! and I have done nothing for her. Is this a sign of how it is going to be with another one?? I vowed always to give/do the same for all of my kids, no matter how many there end up being. Afterall, I am a STAY-AT-HOME MOM, that is my job! How hard can it be for goodness sake?? Just kidding, don't answer that! I just want her room to be put together, but I can't because Hailee is still using the crib for another couple of weeks and I want to go through and organize the clothes we saved and get those washed and ready, but Hailee's clothes are still in the dresser. However, I don't want Hailee to feel like we are pushing her out of her room...granted she is way excited to be sharing a room with Chloe, but with Hailee you have to transition slowly or she gets totally overwhelmed and it can get ugly. Oh my goodness I love my kids so much it hurts!!!

I just need a break away from everything and be able to have a good LONG cry!! Right?? I don't know.

Anyway, like I said nothing to major and everything will work out, but it's still making feel overwhelmed and out of control of things, something I've never really felt before. I'm so sorry for such a long post, but if I didn't write it down and get it out I think I might have burst!! It truly is going to be a good year for The Simpson's...we just need to get through these next two months. Love to all!!

28 weeks!!

2010-03-03T13:38:00.006-07:00

A Chinese Cabbage...which is about how big you are

Hello my precious little angel!! It has been a while since I wrote about the pregnancy and to you. A lot has changed since that last 12 week post...the size of my belly being the number one! You are growing like a weed and must say you are definitely a mover and a shaker...however, could you please find another place to lay beside inside my rib cage?? I know the lung is a great foot rest and the rib cage is a very good protector, but it is mighty uncomfortable. Here is what Baby Center (my pregnancy Bible) said about you this week...

By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. She can open and close her eyes, which now sport lashes. This movement is more of a reflexive blink than a deliberate opening and closing, but it won't be long before she's batting those beauties at you.

I love that your eye lids now sport eye lashes because that is the one trait that both your Dad and I have and we have past it down to both your sisters...who, I might add have the most beautiful eyes. I can't wait to see yours! We are so anxious to meet you...we are at about 2 1/2 months until D-day and it seems so close yet so far away. For Chloe it's like it's years away! A lot is going on in the house getting ready for you. We have to organize the play room and get all the toys up to Chloe's room, which will be Chloe and Hailee's room as soon as you arrive, so that we can move the computer and desk out of Mommy and Daddy's room so there will be room for your bassinet. Also, we have to integrate Hailee's stuff from her room into Chloe's room so that we can make room for all of your stuff that we will accumulate. CRAZY!! Our house is way too small for all of this, but we will make due. There will just be a lot construction going on as we make TV nooks and storage cubbies and all sorts of fun things!!

We had a doctors appointment this week...they drew blood for my glucose test and gave me a shot so that when you are born if our blood were to mix it would keep us safe. He also told me that my nice little hernia has gotten bigger and that instead of it probably going away after delivery I will definitely have to have it fixed...yay!! Then we got to hear your beautiful heartbeat...it is the most soothing sound for me...thank you!!

Well my love I must stop for now...although I could talk to you for hours...things must get done!! We love you so much!!
Daddy, Mommy, Chloe and Hailee

A look at Mommy's belly at 28 weeks

Nesting????!!!!!

2010-02-25T21:32:00.004-07:00

Let me just start by saying my house is looking so amazing right now...I am so proud of myself! I am very excited because I seriously thought people were crazy when toward the end of their pregnancy they say "oh my goodness I am totally nesting right now"...what???...never once with either of my first pregnancies did I nest. I completely get it now...I get the feeling...it is real! This has made me so...just...happy and I have no idea why, but it is a great feeling and I can't wait to bring this little bundle of goodness wrapped in my tummy home with me. I also went with my friend Ashley to Babies R Us the other day and registered for some things because my Mom mentioned wanting to throw me a baby shower. It just feels like things are lining up right now and it is taking A LOT of stress and weight off my shoulders!

Anyway, thanks for listening to that little rant...I had to share my excitement!

Kami's Day

2010-02-25T15:58:00.003-07:00

This last Saturday I went to the most amazingly decorated baby shower I think I have ever been to. It was for my dear friend Kami who is expecting her second baby at the end of March. The theme was "Love you Baby" and everything was red and white and hearts and sparkles and it really just looked like an extension of Valentine's Day!! It was amazing and so it definitely deserved to be blogged about!! Besides the decorations though, it truly was a fun shower with great food and great company! Kami came away with so much stuff and I believe she truly deserves it. She is an amazing mom to her daughter and is going to be just as amazing with her son. We love you Kam!!

The treat table...seven candy jars, iced heart sugar cookies on the table and then more sugar cookies in cute little goody bags hanging from the little tree there. Sooooo cute! To the left in the window seal were little candy boxes and for favors you just grabbed a box and filled it with candy and cookies! Oh and all the candy was red and white as well...darling!!

The food tables

Malia and Chloe...Malia is Kami's daughter and Chloe just loves to play with her.

Baby Madness...Terren's Baby Shower!

2010-02-23T10:01:00.002-07:00

A couple of weekends ago our cousin, Terren, who lives in California, came to town and we threw her a baby shower since all of her mom's side of the family is here...that's us, HAHA! This is Terren's first baby and we are all so excited for her and her husband, Bob! They are going to be great parents and you can truly tell how excited they are as well! The new little baby boy who will be named "Collin" is expected to arrive at the end of March...it's getting close. It was so fun though to talk and catch up with Terren and to get to see her all cute and pregnant and we are all anxiously awaiting the call letting us know she is in labor. Congratulations Ter...we love you!!

The cute Mama

The blanket Great Grandma make for Collin

Terren and Aunt Patty

The Three Amigas

Winter Fun!!

2010-02-23T09:49:00.005-07:00

It seems like winter has come and gone already!! I am a lover of winter...just the thought of snuggling up in a warm winter sweater with a warm blanket makes me excited. I love to be all bundled up out in the cold and breathe in the cold, fresh air. Then of course there is the fun activities such as going up to our family's cabin and sledding and warming by the fire with Hot Cocoa afterwards...I just love it!! It has definitely not been long enough for me, but I guess I can't control the weather. Here are few things we have done in the last couple of monts...

We got all dressed up for a winter wedding...some friends from church got married in January and so the girls wanted to wear a more formal type of dress. So I let them and did their hair to match. I think they were on top of the moon to be all dressed up and they did look beautiful!!

We went ice skating with Brian's side of the family and it was the first time ice skating for both the girls...so fun! Next time though Mom can't be pregnant because Dad had to handle both girls on ice in ice skates and it was a workout for him!! They did great and had a good time anyway!!

Look at how little the ice skates are...sooooo cute!!

Monkeying around at home. Chloe likes to let Hailee ride horse on her back, but Hailee can't herself up all the way on to Chloe's back so she just lays on her back and walks as Chloe crawls. It's the funniest thing to watch and we are all usually rolling on the floor with laughter!!

Some good friends of ours ended up moving to Alaska and so we went and had a "goodbye" dinner with them and let all the kids play. Our kids get along so well together...it was so sad to say "goodbye". However, you will see how goofy they are together because I couldn't get a good picture to save my life. This first picture is of the two two years olds...they are a week apart and they have the same name. For such good friends their Mom's never once talked about names...Crazy!!
Hailey and Hailee...they don't like to share, but they truly do love each other!

The older ones...Makenzie, Chloe, and Tucker

Trying to get a decent picture

The girls!!

We are really bad, but we have only made it to our family's cabin once this year and it was for only one night...boo! It was a blast for the girls though and I can't wait until next year when Mom can slide down the hill with them...so far this year Dad has got to have all the fun with them. So here are just a few pictures from the cabin...the sledding, their snowman, the snow cave, their snow angels and then our Aunt, Uncle and cousin showed up as well.

Chloe's 5th Birthday...Holy Crap!!

2010-02-23T09:43:00.002-07:00

I can not believe that I have a 5 year old!! So many things are going to change this year and I'm not sure if I'm ready emotionally to handle them...just kidding we'll make do. I promised Chloe that when she turned 5 that she could have a "friend" birthday party and she could invite all the kids in her preschool. So we did just that and we had the party at Chicago Connection Pizza where Mom wouldn't have to clean up the mess...yay!! It was very hard for me to put the party together because of course she is a very girly girl and wanted a Strawberry Shortcake birthday party, but there were going to be boys there too and I wanted them to have a good time as well. I ended doing just one game and it was pin the jewel on Strawberry's crown and then for favors I just did little bags of candy...yes, I'm sure their parents loved me! However, like I was afraid of it just wasn't neutral enough because I heard about it from the boys...they're 5 they're going to be brutally honest. I do think they had a good time though because everyone left with a big, sticky, slobbery smile on their face...awwww good times!

Chloe right before blowing out her candles

Malia

Blowing out candles

Chloe and Olivia showing off their cupcake smiles

Beautiful

Chowing down

Easton and Yale...Yale is Chloe's absolute favorite, it's so funny!!

Noah

YAY...presents!!

The whole Birthday gang!

To my little, girly 5 year old princess...I can't believe how you've grown! I look at you and still see the tiny little baby you used to be, but at the same time I see this little girl who has shed all that is baby and turned into such a beautiful, spunky, independent, outgoing, friendly person. My hope for this year is that you take all that is you and run with it...you will be starting Kindergarten in the fall and I can't wait to see the school girl side of you. The side that has to deal with her own struggles on the playground or in the classroom and her own triumphs as well. Always knowing that Mom and Dad are right there if you ever need us to lean on or talk to. You will also become a big sister again! It will be so fun to see you welcome our new little baby into our home. It will be so different from when Hailee came home because you are much older now and actually want to help and be a part of everything...I can't wait to see that! We love you so much and have an amazing 5th year!! ~Mommy and Daddy

Christmas 2009

2010-02-16T14:22:00.006-07:00

Christmas time is my absolute favorite time of the year! I love all the sights, sounds and feelings that come with it and now that I am a MOM I love how absolutely excited my girls get about the holiday. We are lucky because all of our family live near and so there is no traveling involved which makes for a less stressful holiday experience...I guess! It was very low key for us...had our own Christmas in the "early" morning (did I tell you how excited my kids get for Christmas), went and had Christmas with Brian's family in the late morning, came home made sure the over excited, over sugared little people got a nap, and then went to Christmas dinner at my parent's house. It was probably our best Christmas to date because we weren't trying to see everybody all in one day and dragging the kids from place to place which makes them so happy. Now to make it better would be to make everyone come to our house because after all we're the ones with little one...right?? Anyway, here are some fun photos from our Christmas 2009!!

I always read "The Night Before Christmas" to the girls before bed

The girls deep in our story...whoa the flash works!!

Our Christmas tree and presents Christmas morning

The girls ready to come down the stairs

Opening their stockings
Opening their presents from Santa

Oops sideways...Hailee opening gifts

Chloe's new Strawberry Shortcake doll...the hair smells like strawberries

Cousin Alee

Daddy helping Hailee with presents

The "big girls" with their new CD players

Simpson side...Grandpa and Grandma and the Granddaughters

Simpson kids and Grandkids

Cousin Makayla

Chloe...happy as a clam

Chloe practicing her photography skills

Our cute little family Christmas morning...can you tell the girls were done with taking pictures?

Daddy and Hailee

Sammie Jo and her Christmas T-shirt

Cousin Trinity

Hailee and her new motorcycle...when all the grandkids turn 2 my parents get them a motorized toy and this year was Hailee's turn!

Martin Grandkids

Great Nana, Grandma, Daughters and Granddaughters...three generations!

Hailee's Birthday!

2010-02-16T14:10:00.003-07:00

I have so much updating to do it's CRAZY!! So we will start here...This year Hailee's 2nd Birthday landed on Thanksgiving day. My poor kids and their holiday birthdays...anyway, it was a busy day full of turkey, but that evening we buckled down after dinner at my parents house and celebrated complete with a butterfly cake and presents. The nice thing about this age is that it doesn't have to big and glamorous for them to feel special, and they don't even remember it within a couple days. It is still amazing how fast time has gone by with the second child. It really just doesn't seem like it's been two years and it kind of makes me sad to think that I have to actually pull out pictures to jog my memory of her infant days.

I love my baby girl and we want to wish her the best year ever! HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAILEE!!

The Butterfly cake...yes the candles are where you think they are...oops on my part, that was totally unintentional!
My big Birthday Girl...love you bugga!

I haven't forgotten

2010-01-12T21:26:00.002-07:00

I just wanted everyone to know I haven't forgotten about my lovely blog!! I know it looks like it, but what can I say. Between birthdays and holidays and doctors appointments, etc. it has been a crazy 2 1/2 months. Just so everyone can know and for those who didn't get my email or facebook post, we did find out that we are having another girl!! Yep, Baby Girl Simpson #3 is on her way and she looked happy and healthy and beautiful in her ultrasound debut!!

So, hope all is well with everyone and once I get more than a couple minutes to write I will have quite a collection of posts to post.

Love to all!!

12 weeks

2009-11-14T09:13:00.002-07:00

Hey my precious little lime...I can't believe you are already the size of a lime!! I hope you are staying strong and growing and developing well. You have so many milestones this week...you will start bending your fingers and toes, clenching your eyes tight, and making sucking movements with your mouth. Those are all called Reflexes. You will also be able to feel me poking and prodding my belly to get you to squirm although I won't be able to feel you squirm...one thing I can't wait for!!

Your sisters are so excited for you to come...mostly Chloe because Hailee still isn't quite old enough to understand what is going on. Chloe goes around telling everyone that she has a baby brother growing inside her Mommy's tummy! Right now we don't know if you are a boy or girl, but don't worry she won't be upset if you turn out to be a girl...she loves all babies!!

Keep growing healthy and strong my precious one! We love you so much!!

Mommy

Here is my lovely belly at 12 weeks. Just as a land mark (because this is my first belly picture), you can kind of see the mole on my hip, that is where my belly started. It wasn't tight and tone because I've had two kids, but it was flat. So basically for twelve weeks I'm huge!!

Once upon a time there was a Fairy Princess and a Beautiful Flower

2009-11-09T13:25:00.002-07:00

Any excuse to dress up is a great day for my kids and Halloween was no exception. We had a pretty mellow day, but there was definitely much anticipation by Chloe for the evening. After the girls got up from their nap I got them all ready and we headed out to make the rounds.

My Fairy Princess and Beautiful Flower

Every flower needs a little magical fairy dust kiss

The Fairy Princess

and my Beautiful Flower

Our first stop was my Grami's house. Grami had surgery about four weeks before that so she was in her chair and couldn't answer the door, but Daddy to the rescue, was already there waiting for his girls to show up.

Our first door bell..."Trick or Treat"

My cousin Kerry Lynne was in town over Halloween and she brought her dog, Charlie, who was dressed as...what else, but a "Hot Dog".

Chloe and Charlie

Our next stop was Grandma and Grandpa's house (aka: Brian's parent's). By now I think Hailee had it pretty well figured out. She would just open the door and let herself in..."Tick o Teat"..."Tank Too".

Grandma and Granpa's house

Hailee thought she needed to eat every treat right as it went into the bucket

Our last stop was Grandma and Bapa's house (aka: Dawn's parent's). Bapa had a whole house full of guests and it was kind of overwhelming at first for the girls, but it worked. The only bummer thing was that my mom made dinner for anyone who was coming over and we were starving except everyone who was already there had already eaten and were ready to go Trick or Treating. Needless to say we lost and as soon as we walked in the door we turned around and walked right out to go Trick or Treating. It was a fun night though and the girls had a blast which is really all that matters.

"Tick o Teat" Bapa

In the end we decided that next year everyone will come to us if they want to see the girls...if not they can wait for the pictures. It's too much on them, they end up getting a late dinner and then get fussy because they are hungry and tired. Besides we have never spent a Halloween in our own house or Trick or Treating in our own neighborhoods. I think it's about time!! Hope your Halloween was Spooktacular!!!

10 weeks = Kumquat?????

2009-10-28T14:05:00.003-06:00

So I just read that our darling, sweet, alien looking baby is the size of a Kumquat now at 10 weeks!! Yeah, your growing!! However, someone please tell me, what the heck is a Kumquat? It sounds terrible and I am almost offended that that is what my baby is being compared to. Yes, maybe I'm a little over protective, but give me a break there are a lot of hormones going on here. Things have been a little crazy since I last posted that we were expecting...I took a trip to San Diego to become a fitness instructor for an oraganization call Stroller Strides. Killed myself there working out like crazy for four days straight while dealing with early pregnancy nausea and fatigue. Came back sick with "the" flu and was down for another week and am now slowly starting to feel better, but I could honestly sleep myself through the rest of the first trimester. Please just wake me up when I'm supposed to start feeling "normal" again. Also, I know I knew in the back of my head that you tend to show earlier the more pregnancies you have, but seriously come on, my pants haven't fit for about three weeks, but I refuse to go get mat. pants yet and so I've been wearing sweat pants and work out pants, t-shirts and sweatshirts and let me tell you I look lovely!! My only wish is that if your going to show earlier with each pregnancy then make it an actual baby bump and not just jelly roll.
Brian has been "Super Dad" through the last three or four weeks! He is just everything...he took care of the girls while I was San Diego, then took care of all of us when I was sick, kept the house clean, the laundry done, and started to build a work out room in our garage. I'm so blessed to have him, but at the same time he has put me to shame. I feel like being a mom takes a lot of work and at times is hard, and he swoops in and is like what's so hard about this? Maybe that is just my insecurities talking because he is amazing and helped out soooo much...Thanks babe!!
The girls are good and are very much looking forward to Halloween!! I don't know if Hailee will let us get her in her costume, but we'll try. Chloe is going to be a Fairy Princess and it's the first time I've let her get a costume that is very thin in fabric and so we will have a fun time getting warm clothes underneath it. I'm sure that will lead to some sort of squabble.
We'll get some Halloween pictures up this weekend and I will post belly pictures as soon as the belly looks like a pregnant one and not just FAT!!

TTFN

One little, Two little, THREE little Simpson's...

2009-10-09T22:46:00.002-06:00

Yep...that's right we are expecting our third little buddle of joy!! We are so excited and we are definitely keeping our fingers crossed for a little boy. So everyone please send us blue thoughts...however, either way we are still super excited!! Our due date is May 26, 2010 which makes me about 7 1/2 weeks right now. I know it's hard to believe that we are actually getting to have a baby in the spring and not during the winter holidays, but honestly if we were to have another holiday baby..........I don't even know what I would do.........maybe just go crazy!

Sorry I don't have any cool ultrasound pictures to put with this post, but since I don't work in L&D anymore I don't get any of the cool benefits...ie: free ultrasound!

Wish us luck!!

Chloe's First Day of PreSchool 2009

2009-09-01T18:33:00.005-06:00

Oh man the first day of PreSchool or should I say the first day of the countdown to Kindergarten. Mommy and Daddy were teary and Chloe was jumping off the walls with excitement and this is just preschool. I can't imagine what next year will hold...yikes! Anyway, Chloe had a great first day of school and she was so excited to see Miss Carolanne. When Chloe saw her she jumped right in her arms and I think they hugged each other for a good two minutes. She just loves Miss Carolanne and missed her like crazy this summer. So here starts her last year of preschool and make sure and check our blog because all the fun will be written about right here. Now for some pictures of our morning...yes Mom was a little crazy with the camera. Sorry the pictures are out of order, I downloaded them backwards.

Chloe and Miss Carolanne's BIG hug!!

Chloe's backpack mat

Chloe putting her backpack on her mat

Chloe walking up the driveway to Miss Carolanne's house

Chloe walking down the side walk to go up to Miss Carolanne's

Chloe in front of the house before we left

Beautiful Girl on her BIG day!!

Chloe Dawn Simpson's 1st Day of School

Chipped Tooth!!

2009-08-17T11:06:00.003-06:00

Poor Hailee! Her accident prone nature has caught up to her. Hailee and Chloe stayed the night at Grandma and Grandpa Simpson's house the night of our anniversary and the next morning she had taken a fall, but Grandma looked her over and didn't see any blood and the crying had subsided so off to playing she went. When we picked them up and loaded them in the car I bent over to pick something up and when I stood up Hailee gave me this big grin and to my surprise half of her tooth was missing. Grandma felt so bad and you could tell she was a little shaken, but things happen...especially when it comes to Hailee. We had the dentist look it over and it can be fixed, but it would require going to the hospital and having her put under and you know, even though I don't really like the way it looks, it's not worth putting her under anesthesia. So we'll wait a couple years until she is old enough to sit in the dentist chair to get it fixed. Accidents happen and Grandma, don't worry about anything...we love you!

Hailee's tooth
You can't see it very well here, but it's a cute picture!

Swimming Lessons!

2009-08-17T10:42:00.003-06:00

I was going through pictures and totally forgot about swimming lessons! This year was Chloe's first year in swimming lessons...YEAH! She did so amazing and to my surprise was a huge fish! The only thing we need to work on for next year is her listening skills, she wouldn't stay on the step that the little ones were supposed to stay on while the teacher was working with the other students. Chloe just wanted to bob in and out of the water...spaz! Anyway, she did great and graduated with flying colors to the next class. Good job my little mermaid!!

Chloe playing in the kiddie pool on the last day

Chloe and Alee waiting in line to go down the slide

Chloe got to take swim lessons with her cousin Alee

Chloe with her teacher Miss Leah

My little Mermaid
We spent a week chasing Hailee around the pool...I can't wait until they're both in lessons

Chloe's back float

Chloe and Alee

Chloe floating on her tummy with her face in the water...good girl!

My baby girl

Thank You Cookies!!

2009-07-22T13:25:00.006-06:00

On Monday we got to spend the day on the lake with some of our closest friends from the fire department. It was so much fun! Just being able to enjoy each other's company, relax, and watch the kids play and swim was so awesome. Of course we have to give a shout out to the Cook family for providing the boat and chauffeuring all of us around. Thanks guys, we love you!

Logan, Hailee, Malia, Chloe and Olivia playing in the sand

Hailee and Chloe showing their tools
My favorite little stud...Logan
The BIG girls playing
Cookie lounging in the water
Lunch anyone??

The little ones playing
What beautiful BFF's
Amy, Logan, and Kate Lisa, Maia (she's in the oven), and Kami
Hailee and Mr. Shannon teasing with each other

Yeah!! Mommy can wakeboard!! First time out and I got up on the second try.
Miss Kami- one Hot Mama!!
Hailee enjoying the wind in her hair
Chloe...say cheese
Steve catching some air

Miss Malia and her Daddy

Phil rocking the board

The group...most of us

The ladies!!

Newest Creation!!

2009-07-09T15:19:00.003-06:00

So I know that these cute little hair accessories are all over and are nothing new, but I am so proud that I figured how to make them (not that it's hard)! Now I don't have to spend $10.99 on just one...yep these cute creations are going for at least $10.99 in stores. I just love saving money!! If anyone is interested let me know and I can make you some.

Anyway, I just wanted to share because I was so excited!

My first Venting...

2009-07-07T20:22:00.001-06:00

Here it goes...is it just me or can mothering be the most frustrating job you can ever have??!! I can not stand how naughty my kids get when my husband leaves for his nice relaxing 48 hour shift (sorry babe, I know you would rather be at a busy station and this hasn't been your choice). I don't know if this time was just exceptionally bad, but it just makes me feel like I am doing everything wrong because when Daddy is here stuff like this doesn't happen. They pick on each other, they tattle on each other, they take each other's toys away, they pinch, they hit, they scream and yell, they sob, they are mouthy, I can go on and on and on. If they ever act like this when their Dad is around they get spanked and put in their rooms which is exactly what I do when he is gone, but at the end of the day they are still asking for Daddy. It is absolutely INFURIATING and tonight I have had it and am on the verge of tears right now...mostly because their behavior makes me lose my cool and I yell and spank and that is absolutely, positively not the Mom I want to be. I hope one day they will look back and not remember our rough days and can tell me that I was a good Mom, but I until then I guess I won't know. So...now that they are in bed I will take myself and let myself have a good cry and tomorrow...I guess we just try again for a good day. Kami you were right it does feel good to just get things off your chest...no sugar coating it! Good night everyone!!

Summer Time!!

2009-07-05T22:10:00.011-06:00

What a crazy summer it has been already!! From playing in the park to working on home improvements, summer is just flying by for us! Here are some pictures of the girls in the park which is usually a three times weekly event...especially now that the water is on...

Chloe teeter-tottering

Hailee playing peek-a-boo

Say cheese Chloe

Hailee wants to be a big girl soooo bad
Hey Chloe!!

At the end of May Brian participated in the annual "Fill the Boot" fundraiser. It was fun to take the girls out to see their Dad volunteering his time for a good cause. It's not so bad for Mom either...OMG, you've gotta love a man in uniform...Hottie!!

Chloe and Daddy

Yes, that one their belongs to me
Brian filling the boot...

Here is some more park play. There is a huge hill at one of the parks in Eagle and once you climb to the top you can walk along a dirt path around the perimeter of the whole park. It was fun and Hailee made it about a quarter of the way before needing a boost on Mom's shoulders.

Made it to the top

Walking along the trail

About the middle of May I did the annual Susan G Komen Race for the Cure. It was so much fun and I ran it for the first time and I am very proud to say I ran 3.1 miles in 29 min. 31 sec. I truly love this race and especially love the cause...I ran it in memory of my Aunt Amy, whom I miss dearly and in celebration of my Aunt Martha and Aunt Margy. Brian and the girls came down to watch me finish and I hope they were proud of their Mom because I sure was proud of myself!!

Big hug from Chloe after the race
Hailee enjoying the snacks
Mommy's girls

On May 13th, 2009 we helped welcome Gabriel Fidel Godina into the world. Gabriel is the 3rd child and only boy of Brian's cousin Tina and her husband Fernando. We were so excited to meet Gabriel...however Chloe and Hailee were more excited about the hospital room and the snacks in the snack machine. It was a fun visit though and it gives us hope that maybe one day we can have a boy...maybe!!

Gabriel Fidel Godina Hailee wasn't so sure about the whole sharing Mom's lap thing and Chloe just fell in love with him.
Baby Gabriel...definitely a Godina!!
Just like a lot of families the end of May and beginning of June were full of graduations! I think we had 6 either family or friends who were graduating this year. Most of them were local and we were able to either attend the graduation or the graduation party. However, there were a couple that were out of town and of those we were able to make it to one of them. So in the beginning of June we headed to Fallon, NV for my cousin, Kerry Lynne's, daughter, Ariel's graduation. We have quite a bit of family down there and so it was so nice to get to see everyone and catch up.

Shelby (my cousin) and Me

Me and Kelly (another cousin, Shelby's mom)

Ariel Jean- beautiful girl!!

Uncle Mike

Chloe and some new friends

Uncle Mike and Me

Ariel and Me

Chloe and some more new friends hangin' in the hot tub

My beautiful girl

Kerry Lynne rented sumo suits for Ariel's grad. party. They were hilarious! This is Kerry Lynne and her husband, Andy sumoing.

Kerry Lynne getting "it'll be okay" kisses from her dog, Charlie

Ariel, Hailee, and Shelby

When we got back home from Nevada we were thrust into Father's Day and Brian's mom's birthday and this is just a picture of Chloe and her cousins goofing around at our Happy Father's Day/Happy Birthday get together.

My niece Trinity just finished Kindergarden and had an end of the year program about all the things they learned this year. She did so well and she even got a speaking part that she had to memorize and recite in front of everyone! It's so fun to watch her grow up, she is so smart and we just love her to pieces!!

Jeff, Trinity, and Tana at Trinity's school program

I am so proud to say that I helped build this fence and doesn't it look GREAT! Like the perfect team we are Brian and I worked together to put this fence up. We had a blast and I'm really proud of us!!

Our new fence

In my spare time...

2009-07-05T21:31:00.004-06:00

I have found a new hobby and I absolutely love it!! I have learned how to make distressed signs, fun letters and lots of others things. I'm really excited about this and I have a ball making all these wonderful works of art. So I thought I would show some of my most recent creations off. If anyone is interested in giving a gift from the heart, these are a really fun gift to give and I am a lot cheaper than any craft store or home decor store. I can custom make anything to match the colors and decor of your home or the home of the recipient. Hope you enjoy the pictures!!

"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord"

"Family"

"i do"

"Simpson's est. 2003"

"Sophia"

Another "Family"
"Gabriel"

"It all comes out in the wash"

"Delia"

WOW! It's been a while...

2009-05-07T15:04:00.008-06:00

I'm really sorry for being such a slacker. For a stay-at-home mom I've been terrible at keeping up with the blog...again sorry!

Well, a lot has happened since I last blogged and so I am just going to show some random pictures and we'll go from there...

Enjoy!!

Chloe performed at a Centennial High bastketball game after a week long dance clinic

Chloe with her dance teachers from the dance clinic

Hailee met the corner of our bedroom door door jam...OUCH!

Chloe went with her preschool on a field trip to the fire station

Seattle...Brian attended the Scott Firefighter Stairclimb and climbed the stairs to this building. It's the tallest building in Seattle at 72 stories.

Opening ceremony to the Scott Firefighter Stair Climb.

Brian getting ready to climb

Whoo, Whoo...Hot Firefighter in the house!!

And he's off...he did it in 19 mins. Go Babe!!

Hailee's first ponytails

I through a surprise 30th Birthday Party for my sister-in-law, Sara! I pulled it off too.

EASTER!! The girls posing in their home made dresses that Mommy made. Beautiful Girls!!

Makayla, Chloe, and Alee swinging at the Easter BBQ.

Chloe finding Easter Eggs

Hailee finding Easter Eggs

Hailee and Uncle Anthony at Easter

Mommy and Hailee checking out the goods

The Easter Bunny brought Chloe a squirt gun...look out!!

Chloe went with her preschool to the Zoo. Here she is going down the Giraffe slide.

Camdyn, Zepher, and Chloe chilling on the Lion

Chloe and gang looking at the Porcupine

The whole gang...

Chloe and Leah...buddies!

The new Giraffe exhibit...

Chloe posing for the camera...Miss Carolanne passing out snack in the background.

GG helping Chloe blow up the tire for the wheelbarrow.

GG and Chloe picking up pinecones...looks more like goofing off than picking up pinecones.

Hailee eating her snack on her spot on the carpet. GG fixing drinks!!

Chloe and Hailee helping GG feed the deer

Hailee and Chloe enjoying their time at the cabin.

Good Luck President Obama!

2009-01-20T23:00:00.003-07:00

I have to say that I am so proud to be an American!! I watched the Presidential Inauguration all day today and I am so excited to be able to tell my grandchildren some day that I was glued to the TV watching the first African American be sworn in as president. Whether you voted for President Obama or not you have to admit that it was so cool to see history be made. He is such a role model for young people and I can't wait to see what he makes of his presidency. So...GOOD LUCK PRESIDENT OBAMA and Congratulations!!

Happy Birthday Chloe/Happy New Year Everyone!

2009-01-07T14:09:00.004-07:00

Well, we wish you all a very Happy New Year, but most of all we Chloe Dawn a very Happy Birthday! I just can't believe that Chloe is already four. I can still remember every detail of her delivery, which seems like it was just yesterday. So this year for her Birthday we just kept it small and quick. I thought that next year when she turns five we will make a big to do about her birthday, but this year...small! We decided to celebrate on New Years Eve and so we invited just our immediate families over in the afternoon for just cake and ice cream, presents and some good company! We have normally done her birthday during dinner and serve the family dinner so it was so wierd for me when the party was over in just an hour! I almost felt bad, like I had invited everyone over for nothing. Oh well, Chloe had a good time playing with her cousins and all the adults had a great time hanging out and having some adult conversation! Happy Birthday Chloe...we love you so much and are so proud of you. You are turning in to such a wonderful little girl!

Merry Christmas!

2009-01-07T13:31:00.024-07:00

I trust everyone had a happy and healthy Christmas! We sure did! I absolutely love Christmas time!! It's like there is something in the air that changes and I love it...the sights, the sounds, the feelings...it's just magical! The one person we have to thank for that is Jesus Christ. He is the reason for the season and I feel so blessed that my family and I are able to have a personal relationship with him!

As is tradition our Christmas started on Christmas Eve at my Bampa and Nana's. We let the girls open their Christmas Eve gift here at the house (which was PJ's) then they changed and we headed over. My Bampa and Nana are my mom's parents so typically Christmas Eve is spent with my mom's side of the family. We always have a great time because it's so small (my mom only has a brother) and so you are able to visit with everyone and it's casual and relaxed! Here are some photos...

Christmas morning Chloe came in and woke us up early and wanted to go downstairs right away, but of coarse Hailee was still sleeping. We tried to hold her off for a while by letting her watch cartoons in our bed...however that did not last and so finally we let her go downstairs.

This year we started a new tradition...the girls will each receive three gifts because that is how many Jesus received from the wise men. I really hope as the girls get older they hold this tradition close to their heart, I really think it is important. On the other side they both have birthdays close to Christmas and they only need so much stuff.

When Chloe went downstairs she was so surprised to see that Santa had left her a big girl BIKE! She was so excited! She hopped right up on it and was ready to go. It was so cute! Hailee at this point was still sleeping and so we had Chloe hold off on her other presents and let her open her stocking! She could not believe that Santa would put panties in her stocking..."That is so silly Mom that Santa would put panties in my stocking!". Finally Hailee woke up and we finished opening presents and then had to hurry and get ready to go to Grandpa and Grandma's house (Brian's parents).

Again, as tradition we spend Christmas morning with Brian's family, we open presents and Brian's mom makes this amazing sausage bake for breakfast. It is so yummy, I crave this amazing dish all year and pig out when I finally get to eat it! Renae gave me the recipe as a gift at one of my bridal showers so that I could make it anytime, but I'm afraid that if I make it during the year it won't be as good on Christmas! The girls have such a good time opening presents with all their cousins. Usually Grandpa and Grandma get them one gift that is all the same and I know that Chloe thinks that is so cool! Hailee has gotten to experience that yet, but maybe next year. The afternoon is spent back at home taking naps! This is a must for my girls or things get too overwhelming and we have breakdowns and it just makes Christmas miserable. In the evening we headed over to Bapa and Grandma's house (my parents) for Christmas dinner and of course more opening presents. My girls are so spoiled and it doesn't matter how many times you tell my mom ENOUGH she never listens!
All in all it was a very good Christmas, and as usual it went by very fast!! We are so thankful for every single person in our lives and are blessed to be loved by everyone on you!! Thank you to everyone who sent a Christmas card. It is so good to hear from everyone and see current pictures of your families!! On that note we wish you a Happy and Blessed 2009!

Hailee's 1st Birthday!

2008-12-21T22:39:00.015-07:00

So I figured I'd better get this up since it has been four weeks since her birthday! I can't believe it though...Hailee is 1 year old. It seems like I just had her and it makes me so sad that it has gone by so fast. Hailee got to have three little get togethers for her birthday, what a lucky girl. First the day of her birthday was spent with just the four of us. We went to Build a Bear and big sister got to help pick out and make a special animal for Hailee. She chose and bunny and she named it "Sally". After Sally was made we went and sat on Santa's lap. Completely Chloe's idea (I was so proud of her because this is the first year she has wanted to do this)! So both the girls sat with Santa, Chloe told him what she and Hailee wanted for Christmas and then they got their picture taken. It was a fun day just the four of us. Later that weekend, on Saturday, we had my side of the family over to our house for dinner, presents, and cake and ice cream and then on Sunday we went over to Brian's parents for a Thanksgiving/Hailee's 1st Birthday celebration. All in all it was a very big week and weekend for someone just turning 1, but she handled it well. Here are some pictures from her birthdays.

Chloe picking out Sally the Bunny

Hailee watching Chloe stuff Sally

Hailee and Chloe giving Sally a bath

Mommy dressing Sally

Hailee giving Sally her first hug!

Hailee's first cake (Saturday's cake)

The Big Birthday Girl!

Hailee's second birthday cake (Sunday's cake)

Hailee and her Birthday Girl Balloons

And the infamous cake eating pictures...Yum, Yum!

My naked Girl's...

2008-12-04T18:58:00.005-07:00

I was looking through pictures today on the computer and I noticed there are a lot of pictures of my girl's without clothes and it got me thinking...whenever we are home I have noticed that the girl's have themselves stripped in a matter of minutes. For some reason when they are at home they never want their clothes on. Even Hailee will come up to me and start pulling at her shirt to let me know she wants it off. I don't know what it is, but I guess I will just roll with the flow for now. However, there will be issues if this continues into their pre-teens.

Hailee and Chloe helping Mom bake...and their naked!

Chloe posing for the camera...naked!

Hailee hanging out...naked!!

Trick-Or-Treat

2008-11-03T09:50:00.003-07:00

What a fun Halloween!! Our fun started the night before when we carved our pumpkins. Chloe wanted to draw all over the pumpkins instead of carve them, but we told her that if we didn't carve them then we wouldn't be able to put fire in them. Her mind quickly changed...who doesn't want to put fire in a pumpkin? Hailee was cute...she watched from her high chair until we were done with the carving and then we let her loose. Like typical Hailee as soon as she got a hold of the pumpkin it went straight to her mouth. At least she recognizes food.

Halloween night was fun...Chloe was a girl scarecrow and Hailee was a lamb. I was a little bummed because the scarecrow hat that came with the costume didn't fit Chloe's head so we had to go without. Oh well what can you do? We started in Meridian with Chloe and Hailee's cousins Makayla and Alee. The kids did a trunk or treat at the neighborhood park...what a great thing for kids...it's fast and easy and the kids don't know the difference. After the trunk or treat we headed in to Star to see their other cousins Trinity and Zoe. We went around my parent's neighborhood for a bit and after only a couple of blocks Chloe handed us her candy bucket and said "I'm done!" and that was the end of that.

I love how Chloe gets more and more in to the Holidays every year! Hope you all had a Great Halloween!!

Chloe's First Field Trip

2008-10-22T22:09:00.005-06:00

Chloe's first field trip was spent at Linder Farms. Linder Farms is a pumpkin patch that has hay rides, corn mazes, a petting zoo, snacks, a hay bail maze for the kids, etc. After an emotional and overwhelming start I can say that Chloe thoroughly enjoyed herself. The kids got to pick a pumpkin from the patch then they got to go on a hayride through the farm where they got to see a Zebra and a Camel among other animals and finally they got to run through the hay bail maze. It's amazing how fast Miss Carolanne can get a group of 16 kids (not just kids, 3 and 4 year olds) through a field trip in an hour. I asked her how she does it and she just replied 23 years of experience. She also said that if I thought that was impressive just wait until they go to the zoo.

Chloe had a great time and couldn't wait to call Daddy and tell him all about it. What a great first field trip!!

My last night at St. Luke's

2008-10-22T21:38:00.007-06:00

After nine years at St. Luke's Regional Medical Center it was time to say good-bye. I think I will always remember October 6, 2008...it was my last night at the hospital and what a bittersweet night it was. I have always wanted to be a stay at home mom, but when it came time to make that decision it was a lot harder than I thought. I was 18 years old when I was hired at St. Luke's and for a number of women I worked with I was like a daughter to them. They have watched me grow up...from dating Brian, marrying Brian, and then finally becoming a mom, they have seen it all. I will never forget all the memories I made at St. Luke's and I will never forget any of the friends either.

On my last night the ladies threw me a potluck and I made my rounds and said my good byes. I think the hardest part was taking down all the pictures on my locker and emptying out my mailbox. I still haven't put any of the stuff away from my locker. It's almost like it's still not real! I will miss the job, but mostly I will miss my family there at St. Luke's. For any of my co-workers reading this...Thank you for nine wonderful years of advice, support and most of all love. Remember don't forget to invite me to any get togethers...I will being needing the adult interaction more than ever!!

This is one of my co-workers, Ainslee, who had just had her baby a couple days before my last night. I got lucky and got to take care of her baby, Carlee on my last night of work.

Discovery Center...

2008-10-22T21:21:00.006-06:00

There was no school on October 2nd & 3rd and so my sister-in-law, Sara and I decided to take our girls to The Discovery Center. It was so fun watching the girls figure things out. Makayla was probably a little more into it than the little girls, but they still had a great time. I think some of the highlights were the grocery store where they could shop on their own, the tub of soapy water where you could blow huge bubbles, and of course the veterinary office where they were able to take care of all of the stuffed animals...complete with
x-rays. It was a great way to spend a day off of school and a great chance to hang out with their cousins.

Roasting Marshmellows!!

2008-10-22T14:16:00.005-06:00

A couple of weeks ago we were invited over to our friend's, The Shoplock's, to just have a nice evening of hanging out and letting the kids play and roast marshmellows in their backyard wood burning stove. They have two little girls Izzy and Ava, whom Chloe loves to play with. We always enjoy hanging out with The Shoplock's and the kids seem to really enjoy each others company. Chloe loves Izzy's dress up clothes and it seems we never leave there without her trying on every single one of them (and she has a lot!!). All in all it was a fun time had by all and we got to have some adult interaction and take some cute pictures of the kids.

Ava and Chloe swinging

Hailee swinging

Huddled around the fire

Bath Time!!

2008-10-22T14:07:00.004-06:00

Bath time is always an exciting time at our house!! Between both the girls I think more water ends up outside of the bathtub than in, Chloe thinks she needs to help me out by pouring cup after cup after cup of water on Hailee's head, and now Hailee has figured out that she can pull herself up using the side of the tub. One of these days (heaven forbid) she is going to fall and it's going to be ugly! Here are a couple cute bath time pictures!!

Hailee is Crawling!

2008-10-21T22:32:00.005-06:00

This is a couple weeks behind, but our little Hailee is crawling!! About three or four weekends ago she finally put it together and took off in a matter of hours. It's funny how you anticipate it for so long and then boom, it just happens. She is so proud of herself and since that weekend she has figured out how to climb the stairs. YIKES! We have yet to find a baby gate that we trust at the top of the stairs so you have to be watching her at all times. We don't totally keep her away from them because she does need to learn how to go up and down them, but it is the rule that Mommy and/or Daddy have to be present for her to climb. She thinks it's funny to try and sneak away toward the stairs and when she sees one of us coming she tries to hurry as fast as she can to get to them. It's cute!! It's amazing how with the freedom of mobility comes their personality. She definitely isn't a little baby any more...:(

Proud Chloe!

2008-10-04T21:53:00.003-06:00

It's has been amazing to me the difference in Chloe since starting pre-school. It's like she has grown up over night. Even how she treats Hailee is different, more mothering than usual. Chloe still absolutely loves pre-school and comes home every day and pulls her school work out to show us what she has done. They are still working on their colors, but recently they have started to learn how to use scissors. This makes me a little nervous, but the fact that we only own chicken sheers calms my nerves a lot! I am very impressed with how well she can cut though. Everything she brings home is cut practically right on the line and you can definitely tell what shape it is. I'm am just constantly amazed by my little girl and am so proud of her! We are anxiously awaiting her very first field trip which will be a trip to the pumpkin patch and yes she can not stop talking about it and wants to be told several times a day when they will be going...stay tuned for that adventure!

The Rainy St. Luke's Women's Fitness Walk

2008-10-04T21:34:00.004-06:00

Note to self...when purchasing a stroller and they offer you the rain cover, always take them up on it because you just never know. Yes we were just three of the many women who braved the rain to participate in the annual St. Luke's Women's Fitness Race, however, had it been raining when we left the house we probably would have just stayed home. Luckily I always have an umbrella in the car and because it was so chilly that morning I put in extra blankets for the girls and left them in their footy pajamas. It was quite the site though with the rain pouring down and crowds of women, children and strollers trying to find a little shelter while waiting for the race to start. My girls did really well waiting for the race to start, all things considering, but as the race got started I quickly realized that this was going to be just too long of a walk for the girls and after just a couple of blocks we turned off to head back to the parking garage where we had parked. It was a bummer not to do the race completely, but as we got back to the car and I realized how soaked I was (all the way down to my underwear) I wasn't so sad. After all there is always next year!!

More Milestones!

2008-08-28T23:14:00.007-06:00

So for us Simpson's Tuesday Aug. 26, 2008 was a pretty big day. Our little Chloe Dawn is now a full fledged pre-schooler. Tuesday was Chloe's first day of pre-school at Miss Carolanne's pre-school and she absolutely loves it. Our daughter isn't the one that cries when you drop her off...nope, she's the one crying because she has to go home and can't stay and eat lunch and spend the rest of the day with the daycare kids. Which is fine with me because I would rather it this way and it is a great way of letting me know that she likes it. Everyday we ask her what she did at pre-school and she says "I played and I learned". It never fails that is always her answer. We've started to make our questions more specific. It is so fun to watch Chloe be so excited about school and meeting new friends. She thinks it's pretty cool that there is a girl in her class named "Makayla" just like her cousin. She tells us "Mom, Dad there's another Makayla! I think that's five of them"! Well, it's not quite five but we do know a lot of Makayla's. So we are off and running with pre-school and we have a little girl who couldn't be more happy and of course that make's Mommy and Daddy happy as well...emotional, but happy! Our second milestone of the day was that Hailee turned 9 months old and has figured out how to get herself from one place to another...whether it be scooting backwards or rolling she doesn't care just as long as she gets where she wants. I set her down in the middle of the living room by the coffee table and stepped just outside of the garage door to grab something and when I came back in she had gotten herself about five feet away from the coffee table and had found my basket of smelly pinecones. When I caught her she just looked up at me and gave me a huge grin and a look that said "What?". I just can't believe how fast these girls are growing up. I love it because they are just so fun and interactive and we just have such a good time together, but at the same time I'm trying to take in every moment and remember it exactly as it is. I just don't want to miss a thing! Anyway, it's been a great week and I am so proud of my girls, they are definitely the best things to have happened to us!!

Hailee's First Ponytail

2008-08-24T15:11:00.004-06:00

I know, I know three posts in one day, but I tell you we had a very busy week and a lot happened that has to be shared!

I can't believe how big my girls are getting. Chloe is starting preschool on Tuesday the 26th and that same day Hailee will already be 9 months old. It just seems like yesterday that we had Hailee let alone be only 3 months from her 1st birthday. I can't stand it and I have to stop thinking about because it makes me tear up everytime. Anyway...the girls and I were just getting ready for our day Friday and I was putting Chloe's hair up and I looked over at Hailee and she was just watching us. So I got to thinking after looking at her for a minute "she has so much hair...I could probably make a ponytail in her hair". Sure enough after fighting with her movements for a few minutes there was a ponytail sticking straight up in the air. She looked so cute and she new it because Chloe and I were just gushing over her. Here it is another milestone reached!

Meagan's 21st Birthday!

2008-08-24T14:59:00.004-06:00

In the midst of the crazy week of police/fire games, Meagan turned 21...YEAH! For those of you reading who don't know Meagan, she is Brian's brother, Brandon's girlfriend. Her birthday was on Tuesday August 19th and since it was the middle of the week us girls just went downtown to Old Chicago for some dinner and of course to have a couple of drinks. It was a quick night because everyone (except for me) had to work the next morning, but I think fun was had by all. Meagan was thoroughly embarassed by all her mom's picture taking and we all got good laughs over it. So on that note..."Welcome Meagan, to the ranks of legalized drinking...sure glad you could join us"! Love ya Sweetie!

Western States Police/Fire Games 2008

2008-08-24T14:00:00.014-06:00

Last Sunday a ceremony unveiling the new Idaho Fallen Firefighter's Memorial kicked off the annual Police/Fire Games. It was a beautiful ceremony complete with bag pipes and a fly over by 3 military helicopters (Sorry Dad I don't remember exactly what type of helicopters they were). It was an emotional ceremony and fourteen names were read of men who have lost their lives in the line of duty. It was really neat because on the statue little room was left for more names in hopes that no more names would have to be added. It was a sight to be seen with so many firemen in uniform and fire trucks and engines lining the street. I am so proud to be the daughter and wife of a firefighter.

There were so many sports/activities to participate in in these games it was unbelievable. This enabled guys to sign up for mulitple things and it allowed those local firemen who had to work a chance to participate as well. There were police and firemen from all over the western states. It was so awesome to see them all. Brian signed up for softball, which was enough because they played 3-4 games a day for three days! He says he hasn't been sore like that in a long time. I just laughed at him and called him an "Old Man". He says it was worth it because they ended up getting the Silver Medal for softball..."way to go BFD"! The girls loved going out and watching Daddy play softball! Granted the only time their attention was on the game was when Daddy was either up to bat or when Daddy was making a play in the field. Still being outside in the park for three days was a blast and I am sure Brian loved having his girls there. Here are some pictures of how Chloe and Hailee enjoyed the games...what a couple of goof balls.

Our Anniversary!!

2008-08-17T23:19:00.005-06:00

August 2, 2008 was our 5 Year Anniversary...I can't believe we've been married for FIVE years!! What I think is even more of a shock is that we have been together for TEN!! It is amazing to me how the time flies. Sometimes it feels like it was just yesterday that we were graduating from high school...still young and not quite as mature or responsible as we probably thought we were and I look at our girls and think "who trusted us with children"? I definetely have started to not take anything for granted because before I know it it will be five more years and five more and I don't want to miss a thing!

To celebrate this awesome day my amazing husband surprised me with a trip to Seattle!! He had everything planned out so perfectly and I had ablsolutely no idea until we arrived at the airport and the lady at the check in desk said "so your destination will Seattle"! I was so excited!! I must say I was very imprest with my husband...good job Babe!! Brian made arrangements for Chloe to stay with his parents for a night and then his sister for a night and Hailee came with us because he knew that that was a little too far for my comfort to be away from the baby...again good job Babe! Once we were in Seattle we checked into our hotel and relaxed...the only plans we had were some reservations for dinner that night at a very nice restaurant in the Pike's Place Market area called "Il Bistro". It was very yummy. The rest of the trip we had no obligations or places to be; it was all our time and at our own pace. The change of scenery was nice and to leave all stresses at home for a night was refreshing. Since it was afterall both our anniversary I told Brian we should catch a game while we were there so the next day we watched the Mariners beat the Orioles and Hailee got to experience her first major league baseball game. After the game we walked around downtown Seattle and did a little shopping and just enjoyed each other's company.

It was truly an awesome 5 year anniverysary and I can't wait for many, many more anniversaries with this amazing man I get to call my husband! Thank you Babe for my surprise weekend...you definitely pulled one off...I love you!

What a Summer!

2008-07-25T10:03:00.006-06:00

What a summer it has been! We started off the summer with a BIG Simpson family trip to California for Brian's cousin, Terren's wedding. What an awesome wedding that was...Terren was so beautiful and everything was planned so perfectly. Chloe and I were in the wedding along with my sister-in-law, Sara, and our two nieces Makayla and Alee. It was so fun and Terren made sure all of us were pampered with professional hair and make-up...even the little girls got to wear make-up (ie: pixey dust). Terren looked amazing and the wedding seemed to go on without to many hitches. The ceremony was beautiful and the reception was a blast. We didn't see Chloe the whole night because she never left the dance floor! WOW...that girl can dance! Thank you to Terren and Bob for making us a part of your Big Day!

After all the wedding festivities we made our way to Anaheim to spend a couple of days in Disneyland. It was a great time and to see the look of awe on Chloe's face when we arrived was magical! Chloe was a little hesitant and nervous at first, but as soon as she started to see the Princesses and realized that the rides weren't so scary she settled in and we all had a great time!

It was a long vacation and we were all ready to be home, but it was so fun and what great memories we have made! We just thank the lord for our safe travel and for all the blessings he bestows upon us daily! God Bless!

Father's Day!

2008-06-16T13:47:00.005-06:00

There is this man who lives in our house who is so amazing...he provides, cooks, cleans, helps with kids and is an over all great example of what it is to be a real man and a servant of the Lord! With him in the house I feel safe and complete. He is my husband and my girls' father and yesterday on Father's Day he deserved to be recognised! We didn't have to much planned but we did go to church as a family and then took Brian out to lunch and from there went and checked out the carnival that was in town for the Eagle Fun Days. I had to work that night as well so after the carnival we all went home for a family nap! It was so nice just to be on our own schedule and hanging out just the four of us. It's pretty crazy how little time there is for just the four of us. Happy Father's Day Brian...We love you so much!

This week we leave for California! The much anticipated trip is here and the only part I'm dreading is the drive there and back. I hope the girls make it without to much complaint. Our cousin Terren is getting married and we are so excited! It is going to be a beautiful wedding and I can't tell you how happy we are for her and her soon-to-be husband, Bob. We will be there a week and after all the wedding stuff is done we are taking the girls to Disneyland for the first time! Chloe is going to love it and of course Hailee will have no idea what is going on but it will be fun! It's been a long time since Brian and I have been there either and I know a lot has changed.

Can't wait to post pictures and let you all know how the trip went. See you in a about a week!

The Start of our life on a blog

2008-06-16T01:50:00.001-06:00

After viewing a couple of friends' blogs I thought "ya know that is a really great idea and what a way to keep everyone posted on the happenings in the life of The Simpson's". So this is it the start of The Simpson Family's Blog! Hope you enjoy it!