The Wilsons : A Forever Family!

6 months!!!!

2012-02-10T12:08:00.002-07:00

Our Bradyn is a half a year old!!! wow..time has flown by!! He's doing great! Has 3 teeth..began sitting at 4 months old..laughs, smiles, and talks all the time. Is so interested in everything by grabbing on to toys all the time. Loves his big brother. Began eating solids one month ago. Loves carrots :) Can't wait for him to start crawling!

Today was his appointment. We took him to his new pediatrician- Dr. McCuen. He's great! (thanks for the reference, jamie!)

weight- 16 lbs 3 ounces ~ 53%

length- 28 inches ~ 98%

head- 17 inches ~ 79%

I know he may seem skinny..but to ME he is CHUNKY!!!! b/c peyton was sooo little as a baby. The doctor was very impressed with how long he is, that he's kept on his weight pretty well.

We just love him!!!

Hmmmm...?

2012-02-02T16:04:00.006-07:00

THIS...

OR THIS...

We have been dead set on a Cruise for May. But then my Dad suggested why not New York/Church History sites. I think that would be pretty cool. I have been on a cruise, but Steve has not. Steve has been to the NY airport..both of us haven't actually"been" there though. Neither have we seen the Church history sites. So now I'm totally 50/50. What do you think?

St. George home

2012-01-13T09:15:00.005-07:00

As many of you know- we have been living in St. George for the past two years. We had the opportunity of living in my parent's 2nd home that they purchased at the time we were moving down there. Our St. George home was filled with so many memories. My heart has been broken knowing we are saying goodbye. Coming to St. George felt so right as we sat back and watched everything perfectly fall into place This house is where Peyton learned to crawl. Where he took his first steps. A place he returned to after having heart surgery to recover. This house is where much celebration took place as I landed my dream job. This house is where baby Bradyn came home to. I'm filled with a lot of confusion in wondering- how is a place that felt so right only lasted for just 2 years? Our goal is to come back. I always imagined Peyotn and Bradyn growing up as Southern Utah boys. I pray our wish comes true. So many visitors, much laughter was shared within the walls of our home. We took pride in calling our house- "The Wilson Resort & Spa"- we even had a massage table to serve visitors :) The thing we will miss most is spending countless hours with my parents. We always looked forward to every visit. Peyton always waiting anxiously for their arrival. Relationships were made stronger in our home. We give a big thanks for all who came and stayed with us. We loved every minute of it. I loved seeing how friends made so much effort to come see us. Now we are walking away, and will forever hold these memories in our hearts forever.

My parents have decided to put the St. George house up for rent. And are so lucky that their treasured daughter (me) found renters for them :)

We are in South Jordan right now living with my parents untill our condo is built in Eagle Mtn. Our expected move in date is- Feb 18th. Steve loves his job. I gotta say- we have a very lucky lifestyle right now. Steve does about 1-2 exams per day. He's away for about 45 min per exam...and the rest of the time we chill and hang out together- and is getting paid full time hours. Talk about chill!! We've got it good, that's for sure. But we know business will pick up and he will be away more often. We are loving the time spent with friends and family. My little sister, Amber is getting married next month- so we've been busy planning her bridal shower, making her wedding video, etc. All is well. We are looking forward to this upcoming year!

Nuts n' Bolts...

2011-12-16T16:16:00.004-07:00

We are moving! yay! and....noooooo :( all at the same time!! I have so many mixed emotions. One second I'm bawling and then next I'm excited to see what the future brings. All and all, i know that moving is what's best for our little familia. Soo.....we are coming up to So Jo for Christmas Dec 20-27 (during that visit we are meeting with the financing people- talkin about moving into Bret and Katie's condos) Then on the 27th- Me, Steve, and Bradyn will come down here for a few days- just depends on how long it will take us to box everything up and put it all in the garage and then to take what we need to live on for about 2 mos. We'll then leave prob the morning of the 31st to drive back to my parents. We are then living at my parents for a couple-few months. Then when our condo is ready to move into/when we have the money for the down payment- we will drive to St. George, rent a U-haul put all boxes and everything in the truck and drive straight to our condo in Eagle Mtn. And that will be it!!! so the good news is- we get to go to Jen & Ben's New Years Eve Party!!! yay!!! lol. I'm excited! So please let me know if you want to hang out during Christmas week, we'd love it! Merry Christmas!

Cross road

2011-12-12T14:53:00.012-07:00

(pretty much ME the past week)

Well....well.....it's that time to write everything out..so i can process.

As most all of you know, Steve just graduated from the Medical Radiography program here in St. George. He was one of many that graduated with not a lot of job prospects, in fact none. After praying that something would come along- we decided to begin looking else where..like up North. B/c it was becoming apparent to us- more opportunities are available in SL.

(i mean think about it, like dozens of hospitals as compared to two)

Well, a job has come up. It is a Mobile X-ray company. Pretty much Steve would have x-ray equipment in a vehicle and would travel to different locations performing x-rays (nusing homes...assisted living houses...anywhere between ogden to provo) pretty much places where people can not go get x-rays done themselves. Steve would manage himself. Big chance of moving up the chain and becoming a team lead- when more guys are working for this company in SL. Be given a company car & phone. (meaning, we would trade in our two cars for a new car and could take his phone off our plan, making our bill cheaper) Annndd....a gauranteed full time hours. Major reason for that is b/c we would be relocating for the job. Even if he may only get paged to do one or two x-rays per day..and he's only gone for a few hrs. No matter what- gauranteed full shift hours. (pretty chill, right??!) Also to add we have been planning to go on a cruise in March and working for a job like this would make that plan very easy for us to still make. This job would start Jan 1. Meaning- yes, we would move to Salt Lake. So we then have thought ok- if this was the case...where would we live? And Eagle Mountain seriously was the first place we thought of. Not only are a big chunk of our friends there..but I have always loved where our friends- Katie & Bret Boyd live...and think it would be awesome to buy into their same bldg. Tomorrow- Steve is going on a "drive along" down in Vegas (where the company is based from- but they need Steve in SL) with some of the guys to see nuts and bolts of it all and what a typical day is like. So that is the SL plan.

So....admist this job in Salt Lake-we had been hoping an x-ray position would just open up here at the hospital (b/c we had been told the hospital would take 2 more students in Dec) A job did open up- but it is a front desk position for Radiology- not only would he be in charge of registering in patients but can also go back and perform the x-rays himself. And when the next tech position opens up- he would get first dibs since he's already working within the same department and is an x-ray tech himself. The only thing is the matter of - WHEN would the next tech position open up??? Could be one, two..or months from now. So, he went in and had an interview and it went well. He actually will be hearing either today or tomorrow if he got the job.

So the huge pickle that we are in..is...the SL job we know would pay more than the hospital job here in St. George..BUT the big clencher is--- my job is HERE. And that is the biggest reason why I am digging my heels in the dirt is b/c of my job. I know we could get by fine with staying here and me working and him doing this front desk job and fingers crossed that a tech position would present itself shorty..and everything could perfectly fall into place and be fine and we could live the best of both worlds.

When speaking to a friend about all of this madness she said to me- this is interesting b/c most people are driven by money...but then again, most people don't have their dream job. After she said that, i thought yeah- you know to some, this could be such an easy choice- go with the job that you know will pay more and has more perks. But it's the whole matter of me leaving my job here..my DREAM job. Not to mention, we LOVE st. george.

That's the biggest thing is the unknown..we don't know. And the future is so unclear right now. And it's been hard b/c I am a planner..and right now, I don't have a plan! Within 2 weeks we could be gone..or could remain here!! It's just so so up in the air at this point! And I wish I had all the answers! But I do know after we hear back from the hospital and he does this "drive along" with this SL job tomorrow- we will have a better idea as to what will happen. well..that is, I hope we have a better idea. I want to enjoy the holidays and make a decision. Crystal ball- please, where are you?!

I will keep you posted!

Loves!

Graduation

2011-12-01T14:59:00.004-07:00

Steve graduated for the Medical Radiography Program at Dixe State! It was a 2 year program :)

It seems like yesterday we just moved to St. George, crazy! Steve has been the class president for his class and was asked to speak at the Graduation as well as introduce some speakers. He got the award for- "the final rose" Most updated with Reality TV. So funny!! all b/c of me :) Following that award he got up to say- "stay tuned for the Bachelorette starting Jan 1 ha ha"!! After the graduation we went to dinner with his sister, trisha and his grandma. Thank you to all who have sent such sweet cards/gifts. Steve really appreciated all those who cared so much for him. My family is such a great support system!

Loves!!

steve loves me :)

2011-11-24T17:59:00.002-07:00

We decided to add on to our Willow Tree Nativity set. L.O.V.E it!!!

The Wilson update :)

2011-11-14T14:34:00.005-07:00

Many have been curious to know what's going on with Us lately. We are approaching a big cornerstone in our lives this week. Steve is GRADUATING!!! I am excited...BUT...it's not the end. He will be returning back to school in August to move on. So..in the meantime we are figuring out our plans.....

Steve will be graduating with the title of- Rad Tech. (performs X-rays) Right now Steve is trying to find a job. As most of you know- for the past 2 years I have been the one to work. (which I LOVE) So now that Steve is finished with the program he will now work..and I will too (b/c i LOVE it) There is 12 graduating in Steve's class..and 4 have jobs already. The hospital is taking 2 more students in Dec. So we are obviously hoping that Steve will be one of them. Big disadvantage is- we don't have many options here..but would have many in SL. Steve has had a job offer at the Las Vegas Hospital. (don't know the exact name) So that is of course, a back up plan. It is not by any means the most appealing idea. It would only work if- Steve's has no other luck in St. George, if he works 3 days a week 12 hour shifts, the pay per hour is a lot more than here, and we buy a new fuel- efficient car. The commute is 1 1/2. So we will see about that.

There have been questions raised of- would we move back North? Well, if we did- we totally would move to Eagle Mountain :) BUT- i honestly doubt we will move back. 1- we HATE the cold. 2- I could NEVER EVER leave my Job. I try to explain this the best way possible..but there is NO Way I could ever walk away from my Dream Job. A big part of it, is b/c I worked for 5 yrs to not only get a degree and to be working in a field that is related..and a place I have always sought after..no way will I walk away. (not to shabby income either) I feel like if I walked away and whatever place I would be working at- I would always think..I'm better than this. Plus it's different b/c where I work is a Fitness Resort (not a gym) aaannnnddd...I am continuing to work up the ladder for higher positions. So, I'm really hoping Steve finds something here!

So, once Steve finds a job (the goal is by Jan 1) we will both continue to work. The ideal situation is- Steve works graveyard shifts full time...so I can work during the day. Would be hard...but do- able. As for now, the plan is moving out of my parents house in June and finding a house to rent nearby. Then in August Steve will return to specialize in MRI through Weber State via online. That will last 1 1/2. And then he can go on to have a job in that specific modality. With every area he specializes in, salary increases (dramatically :)) Big Perk!

NOW- there is the option of an idea that has come to our attention of- selling security for the summer :) If this occurs, Steve will find a job now..leave it in April (as well as me leave my job) and then return in August for Steve to begin school again. We shall see. The worry- is my job wouldn't accept a leave of absence like that. As some of you know- I had a pretty bad situation where- while being on maternity had my job position filled at another Resort I was working at (if you recall, I worked at 2- it's a VERY long story) So I am very very hesitant about leaving jobs like that..since that had just happened to me. But I do think it would be a blast. Even cooler that all money could go towards paying off our student loans from the past 2 years. And I'm pretty sure- I would want to be the one to sell. It's an idea we are playin' with.

So that is our update. In other news, Bradyn is now 3 months old and Peyton is 30 months. I just had a fantastic birthday! I loved it! And we have been getting ready for the Holidays. Christmas shopping is almost all done. My sister, Amber is engaged. Her and Russell and my parents are coming to us for Thanksgiving this year. Christmas this year will be in South Jordan :) We are so excited for Christmas. I want to spend every day with my friends and hanging at my parents. So excited to see the lights at Temple Square. Pretty sure- we will be decorating for Christmas early this year. Last year we had everything up before Thanksgiving (partly b/c we were leaving for SL) Might do it again this Year....:)

ps- we re-did our blog header, let me know what you think :)

And..fingers crossed- Steve finds a Job....HERE! ha ha

Blessing Day!

2011-10-31T13:55:00.004-06:00

October 30, 2011

was Bradyn's Blessing Day. He was 11 1/2 weeks old. It was such a wonderful day. I decided to have Bradyn wear Peyton's blessing outfit- he barely fit into it. ha ha :) We blessed Bradyn in our parent's ward. Steve had in the circle- my dad, his dad, my Grandpa Devey, Chris (bro in law), Ben (bro in law), Russell (future bro in law), Bryce Nelson (close friend) and Nic Koelliker (close friend). Steve's family was in town but only his dad could make it...
After the blessing we had a brunch at my parents home.

I LOVE LOVE my friends. They mean so so much to me. I love this gang so so much! I take for granted how much these people mean to me and all they do for me. The are such a great support system. I know that any day in St. George when I feel lonely or forgotten..to stop and think of days like these and know that my friends are always there for me no matter what. I love them so so much!!!

Little Bradyn

Our family

We weren't able to get a family shot of my fam...hope to soon. Loves!!!

A loss :(

2011-10-21T12:55:00.006-06:00

Steve's grandpa Emmett Smith passed away early this morning :( He was by far the sweetest generous grandpa I have ever met in my life. I will always hold dear the memories of driving to Central
(a little town tucked away from busy city life in the forest)
where we would stay whenever Steve and I traveled to St. George and needed a place to stay. They would be waiting at their doorstep for us to arrive. They were the kind of grandparents that would stay up late just talking and talking. Hours and hours of playing Scrabble. Just hearing of all the adventures of Grandpa Smith's life. In honor of him our first born son possesses his middle name ~Emmett. I loved how involved he was in his children and grand children's lives. Ever since deciding to move to St. George we have become very close to them. What's been the hardest for Steve and I is how the process of him fading has happened so quickly. I would have never expected it at all. He's been so healthy and in shape his whole life. We just have to hold on to the fact that Heavenly Father sees the bigger picture and to hold on to the eternal perspective of things. What a great missionary he is being right now.

Families Can Be Together Forever

We love him SO SO SO much. And am so happy to see him before he passed. I'm proud to say not only is he my husband's grandfather but that he is Mine as well.

2 months!!!

2011-10-10T13:56:00.004-06:00

Our sweet Bradyn is 2 months old!!! He got his shots today :( He did quite well, actually. Only stressful part was 2 kids at the Pediatrician's office at once! Here are his stats:

WEIGHT: 11 LBS 6 OZ ~ 43%

HEIGHT: 23 1/2 INCHES~ 80%

HEAD: 15 INCHES ~ 15 %

He's doing great!!

*Smiles and coos

*While on tummy holds up head and looks from right to left

*While sitting on our lap can hold up head

*Discovering hands

*Gets up twice at night

*Loves Nursing (going very well)

We Love him!!! Its true what they say- you hardly take any where near as many pictures as you do with your first baby. We are Thrilled to be going up North soon for all family and friends to finally meet him!!

Most Important Thing

2011-09-14T21:11:00.001-06:00

LOVE

Mama of Two

2011-08-25T22:14:00.004-06:00

Does anyone have any advice on how to teach your 2 yr old to not attack their sibling that is a baby??
We are kind of going through a hard time with that.
Peyton has had some scary moments of wanting to attack Bradyn :(
hitting, squeezing...
Sibling rivalry? Jealousy issues? All the above?
It seems no matter if it is negative attention..he wants it. I think another example with that is- he chewed off the keyboard off my phone...(not like him) and has chewed buttons off the remote.
He just seems to be doing things we aren't use to him doing.
This is EVEN with Steve and my mom around..a lot...
Wish me luck when that is not the case

I don't think I can fully say I know what it's like yet to be on my own in a normal daily routine yet. My mom has been with me every day..and will still be in town till Sept 6th as well as Steve has been around alot. So I haven't felt like I've experienced what it's like to be "on my own" at home with the two of them..

Can I just say how much i LOVE nursing?!? So So much better than it was one week ago!!! Bradyn has made it so easy for me and is so flexible. I nurse during the day..and then pump at least once during the day to provide milk for the night..so that we are able to feed him bottles at night. Not my idea- steve says..."Brooke, you do enough during the day...I get him at night..please pump so that I can feed him at night."
Um...HELLO!!! where the freak did I find Him!!? Love you Steve :)
on a side note- am a little worried not getting up at night to nurse or to pump how that will effect my milk supply. Nurses have told me as for right now, it shouldn't be a problem..I may need to adjust if needs be.

Exciting Moment- I gained 20 lbs with my pregnancy...and I've lost 26!!! in 2 weeks!!!
Freakin excited!!!! :) yay for breast feeding!! It makes me more excited to get back to work.

Loves!

3rd yr Anniversary

2011-08-20T11:15:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was our Anniversary :)

It was Steve's turn this year. We do this thing whoever plans it for that year- is the only one that gives gifts.

This is what we Did:

Watched our Wedding Video

Lunch @ Kneaders

Bought "Something Borrowed" and watched it

Got all dressed up & had Dinner @ Redmountain Spa

(first time we have ate somewhere having a bill over $50)

Got a massage

As an anniversary gift Steve gave me-

A legit Professional MASSAGE TABLE!!

2 massage specialty towels

Massage oil/Cooling & Warming Lotions

"How To" Massage Book

Just another fun thing to add to the Wilson's Resort & Spa :)

It was a great Anniversary! The day was spaced out enough that I was able to nurse Bradyn when we were home.

Love you Steve!!!

Baby Bradyn

2011-08-12T14:20:00.003-06:00

8 lbs 7 oz

22 inches long

12:28 pm August 10th

So we are home!!! Everything was so so awesome!!!

So i went in @ 7am the morning of August 10th to be induced. Once they got me all hooked up...the next words were- Um, you are in Labor...do you not feel these contractions? I said- Nope. I ended up not being induced after all and countined dialating and thinning out on my own. At 12:00 i started pushing. And at 12:28pm had him!!! My mom was there in the room with us. She liked it alot. They lied him down on me...and washed him all off...didn't wisk him away :) He ended up weighing less than I thought he would. And they said- ok let's start with the nursing- and he latched right on and sucked and sucked away!!! 2 hrs later I got up and began walking around...excellent food service. He's been doing great!!! Such a completley and total different experience from last. Have had a few hiccups with nursing today...but I think it will be just fine. I have to nurse with a nipple shield on due to such large boobs ha ha!! He can't quite fully get everything he needs to in his mouth due to my size. Peyton loves him. We are doing well! :)

OH BABY BABY!!!!

2011-08-09T12:23:00.003-06:00

it's finally here!!! My Doctor informed me he is going out of town and since I'm 39 weeks....he asks- wanna go ahead?? I'm Like- Yes!!! :) Tomorrow Wednesday, August 10th is the Day!!!

Yay!!! I'm so so so ready!!!!

38 week pic

2011-08-01T17:37:00.003-06:00

We'll see you soon Bradyn!!!

Preggo update- 37 1/2 wks

2011-07-29T19:28:00.002-06:00

I found out Tuesday that I have Toxemia. Although I find it a little strange because I'm not experiencing many of the symptoms. I don't have headaches, swelling or blurred vision. Never had it with my 1st child. But i do have high blood pressure and protein in my urine. He didn't exactly tell me to go on Bed rest...just to "stay off my feet" as much as possible. I am still teaching classes (i know, i know- im a freak) I feel fine when I am at work, but once I'm done i'm in so much pain from walking I just want to bawl. I am still having MAJOR pelvic problems :( Probably because right now I weigh more than I ever have my entire life as well as the baby's weight. All i want to do is eat ICE!! I LOVE it!! I still have heartburn I end up taking a combo of Pepcid AC as well as Tums.

The doctor told me that I will be getting induced. My next appointment is on Tuesday and he told me that if my levels are still high that he will induce me that very day. If the levels are OK then to wait till I'm 39 weeks (Aug 9th) I kinda like the idea of being induced. It's so PLANNED :) So ME!! I like the idea of having my bag all packed, house nice and clean, freshly showered and ready to go with a scheduled appointment :)

If it were up to me- my vote is to have the baby Aug 9th. I want Bradyn to stay in there as long as possible, but obviously if it's detrimental to his health then of course take me whenever. Just watch- I'll actually just end up going into labor on my own before I even have the chance of being induced. Who knows what will happen. I will have more clarity on Tuesday and will give you an update. I'm excited for my parents to come and to be here with us through it all. They will be such a big help for Peyton.

I'm not nervous at all.

Just a list of Hopes :

1- my labor and deliver will go far much better than last time, no Nicu experience, be able to leave the hospital with our baby, and to have a smooth recovery.

2- Peyton's needs and wants continue to be met as well as for him to have a smooth transition to a new brother

3- That the new experience of breast feeding is completley non stress and a success

loves!

Birthday!

2011-07-23T13:09:00.004-06:00

My Little 24th of July Baby!!! Love my Steve with all my heart!!! We are truly meant to be!!! Happy 27th Birthday Steve!!!

Love, Brooke

breastfeeding qts...

2011-07-09T08:53:00.002-06:00

Hey! So I never breastfed Peyton and really want to this time with Bradyn. So what's the deal with -if you want to breastfeed then no binkis??

Is that true? I've heard at the hospital to tell the nurses no binkis...right? But then what about once you are home? No binkis at night? What's been your experience?

34 weeks

2011-07-07T13:02:00.004-06:00

34 weeks and 1 day

I feel so so so BIG!!! Went to my Doctor's appointment. Things look good. He is breeched still...

I am measuring at 36 1/2 weeks...he thinks i may go early (let's hope so) But he's not changing my due date- remains as Aug 17th

My doc calls him "a tank" ha ha....He feels he knows without a doubt this baby will be over 10 lbs.

I have gained a total of 14 lbs.

Heartburn is SEVERE!! No more tums...i'm moving on to the good stuff- Pepcid AC.

My entire groin, thighs, and hips are constantly aching...it hurts really bad to walk. He says it's b/c the baby is so big my ligaments aren't strong enough to support. I even wear a maternity belt!! The thing that's hard with a maternity belt is with how hot it is down here...with it on, i sweat so so much more....sucks :(

I have to choose- do i want to be soaked all day in a furnace or not hurt when i walk??

The siatica i think is gone...

So I have 2 jobs- Biggest Loser Resort and Redmountain Spa. I've decided to stop working at Biggest Loser Resort on my due date. And Redmountain the last Saturday in July be my last day.

Am i pushing it too much?? probably a lil crazy!!

We have asked my sister in law, Trisha to be there for us to watch Pey in case I go in labor in the middle of the night...pretty much she will be at mercy to our beckon call lol.

We have absolutely everything done and completed..and now just waiting :)

Today is Steve's last day for the summer. He is off for 6 1/2 weeks..He starts his LAST SEMESTER on Aug 22nd!!! (so so so ready to be DONE DONE DONE!!!)

so that will be good to have him around all the time to help out and stuff. We are thinking of going up North next week...mainly b/c we have nothing better to do :) Doc says it's fine to travel at 35 weeks (which i will be next week) but not 36. Pushing it??

Besides baby stuff- we are in the water once a day...anything from the splash pad to the pool. Steve's Birthday is on the 24th of July. He will be 27!!! OLD!!! and will be running in the same race he ran last year. So that will be fun. Speaking of old...i'm turning 27 this year too!!! Which ps- excited for my Birthday to land on 11/11/11 this year!!!! PARTY!!!

Steve's mom is coming into town for a couple of weeks so that will be fun too.

We are finally getting past a huge car repair- in total cost us $750. I HATE spending money like that on gay cars!! ugh!!

Speaking of cars, we are actually thinking of trading in our Jeep as well as my Neon and getting a brand new really nice car....don't know what yet??? I would rather have one nice car then 2 crappy cars....

And we figured once Steve starts working at the end of his program (November) he will be working full time- graveyard shift...allowing me the opportunity to work during the day. So it's not like i need the car in the middle of the night..it's just that he would be car less when i would go in for work. So it should work with just 1 car?? hope..

All is Well!!

He's Been There Before

2011-07-03T20:38:00.004-06:00

"The alarm rings at 6:30; i stumble to my feet. I grab on my companion's bedding and pull on his sheet. A groan fills the room, is it already time to arise? It seems just a second ago I was able to close my eyes. The morning activities follow study, prayer and such. When it's time to leave the apartment you feel you haven't accomplished much. "We have a super day planned" my comp says with a grin. I utter a lowly faithless breath. "Ya, if anyone lets us in."

With the word of God and my faithful Schwinn, we ride off in the street. Prepared to face another day of humidity and heat. It's 9:30 in the evening. The day is almost through; my companion and I are riding home not accomplishing what we thought to do. We ride up to the mail box hoping to recieve a lot only to look inside and hear my echo reverberate "Air box" We go up to our apartment the day is now complete. The only thing to show for our work is a case of blistery feet.

It's past 10:30pm, my companion is fast asleep. Silence engulfs me all about and I begin to weep. In the midst of sadness I kneel down to pray; I need to talk to Father but I'm not sure what to say.

"O Father" I begin "what happened to us today? I thought we'd teach somebody, but everyone was away. My hands, my aching hands...worn, hurt, and beat; if our area were any smaller we'd have knocked every street."

"Why on missions are the days so much alike? The only difference about today was the flat tire on my bike. Will you send some cooler weather? The heat is killing me. I sweat so bad it gets in my eyes, it's very hard to see."

"Why do i have to wear a helmet? Isn't your protection enough...people always laugh at me and call me stupid stuff. Please send us some investigators so I can give them what they lack. I want to give them books of mormon, the weight of them hurts my back."

"And what about my family? They don't have much to say. I'm sick of not hearing from them day after day. O Father why am I here? Am I just wasting my time? Sometimes I just want to go home. I'm sorry, but that's just on my mind."

"My companion, heavenly father...what are you giving me? The way he rides his bike..i don't think he can see."

"Now you have it, I can't go on...I don't know what to do. That, my Heavenly Father, is the prayer I have for you."

My prayer is now finished. I stand up, and jumped right into bed. Sleep starts to over take me. I seem to drift away. Then it seems a vision takes me to another time and another day. I'm standing alone on a hill, the view is very nice. A man walks towards me and says, "My name is Jesus Christ."

Tears of joy well up inside, i fall down to his feet. "Arise," he states "Follow me to the shade. You and I need to speak."

My attention to my Savior total and complete. He says, "your mission is similiar to what happened to me. I understand how you feel, I know what you are going through. In fact, it would be fair to say i felt the same as you. I even know how you felt when no one was listening to you at times I felt not quite sure what else what I could do. I know you don't like to ride a bike for you, a car would be sweet. Just remember the donkey I rode wasn't equipped with 21 speeds."

"I understand you don't like sweating, in fact it's something you hate. I remember when I sweat blood from every pore. Oh, how the agony was great! I see you don't like your companion. You'd rather have someone else. I once had a companion named Judas who sold my life for wealth."

"It's hard to wear a helmet and have people make fun of you. I remember when they put thorns on my head and called me the King of the Jews. So you feel burdened down by the weight of your pack. I recall how heavy the cross was when they slammed it on my back."

"Your hands hurt from tracting and knocking on doors all day. I guess when they pounded nails into mine..they ached a simiiar way. It's hard to not hear from home when your family is not there to see. I lost communication on the cross and cried." Father, why hast thou forsaken me?"

"We have alot in common, but there is a difference between us, you see. I endured to the end and fulfilled my mission. So follow, and do like me."

He embraced me with his arms, his Light filled me with his Love. With tears in my eyes, I watched as he went back to the Father above. I stood with awe and wonder when a beep rang in my head. I listened then heard my alarm, then realized I was in bed. My companion let out a groan, "6:30 already, no way?" I sat up and said, "Come on, I'll even carry your scriptures today."

No matter what we go through, when we feel we can't take more. Just stop and think of Jesus Christ. He's Been There All Before.

i was watching the Best Two Years today and became very nostalgic. I sent this to my brother, parker :)

it's that time again.....

2011-06-26T16:47:00.007-06:00

"My Homeland, Territory, and Element...."- me

My 13th trip to Lake Powell!!

What greater way to spend it than with Aubs :) This is Aubs 3rd time with my family. Her and Jamie are in the running for most times gone with my fam :)

Peyton was a complete angel the entire time. He just loved every minute of it! A natural boater! He'll be skiing by the age of 5!

yes, i'm HUGE! so..i don't know if i would recommend going so far along. I still went on the tubes but due to my size felt a little uncomfortable...the only things that were a little challenging was the heat- especially when there was no air circulation in the house boat...and this trip, there was not a whole lot of food to munch on...and prego in 3rd trimester..no snacks = no bueno. :( This heart burn is killing me...i'll consistently have it throughout the day especially when I'm not snacking on something at least every few hrs. I've gained 9 lbs...so that's better than just a few!!

To think of a new little boy sitting next to them :)

We had so much fun!! I love how much Steve loves my Family. I love how much he interactes with everyone and that he is truly interested in their lives. He and my Dad get along so well with each other....i love how he truly feels like they are his family. I love how much my famly loves him and describes his as a natural member of the fam. From Day 1 he has always felt like he can call my parents- mom and dad. Well, on the trip I heard him call my mom- "hey, mommy" ha ha!! it was funny. I love doing such fun summer activities with family :) So many more Lake Powell memories to come in the next years!!!

To Bradyn

2011-06-13T12:55:00.003-06:00

(may be cheesy, but i love it)

Dear Bradyn,

We just can't wait for you to come into our lives!! You have an amazing dad who will do all sorts of fun things with you :) Besides having an incredible Dad- your older brother Peyton already just loves you so so much. Not an hour goes by in the day that Peyton comes up to my belly and says- "baby" and gives you a kiss on my tummy and then lies down on my tummy pressing his check to try to feel you :) Your mommy and daddy are so blessed to both work in areas of love and passion in which we have worked so hard to accomplish in our earlier years. We live in such a warm place and have so many fun things to do outside. We will have you swimming in no time! We are so excited to take you on walks and to the park. You have so many little buddies just waiting to be with you (most of them live far away, but we see them often) We are so anxious to see how much you look like Peyton or if you will look very different from him. And I am so happy to plump you up! You have, in my opinion- an adorable room that is waiting for your arrival! The animals in your room are so happy to play with you soon. Get ready to learn how to pose and smile at the sight of a camera. We have trained your older brother, Peyton quite well. Your Daddy and I will help you achieve every dream you can imagine. Your Daddy and I both had the opportunity of serving missions and are so excited to watch you follow in our footsteps. We are so excited to see you smile, hear you laugh, and watch you as you grow in all stages of life. We can't wait to kiss every inch of you. We love you and just can't wait for you to come into our lives in just 9 short weeks...

Love, Your mommy Brooke, Your Daddy Steve and your brother

(best friend for life) Peyton

Weekend Fun!

2011-06-08T18:15:00.004-06:00

Last weekend Joyce, Nic, and Jack came to play! We went to see The Little Mermaid at the Tuachan. It was so fun!! We spent the weekend at the Splash pad, swimming pool, and Dixie Rock. We missed Jamie, Bryce, Stockton and Aubree!!

Amanda and her kids then came to stay a night as well :) We love when visitors come! So many fun things to do here in St. George. Happy to live in such a hoppin place!

As far as a baby update- I'm 30 weeks along! 10 more to go! From here on out I'm being seen every 2 weeks. My first physical therapy appt for my sciatica is on Friday. Hopefully that will diminish soon....

Touching

2011-05-29T11:49:00.004-06:00

Peyton's Heart Surgery Day seems such a long time ago. That day was a complete blur. I do remember feelings of worry and stress. I came upon this excerpt in an Ensign article.....so so touching.

The article is called- The Atonement Covers All Pain

by Elder Richards.

Of all general conference talks- this one stood out to me most.

Thirteen year old Sherrie under went a 14 hour operation for a tumor on her spinal cord. As she regained consciousness in the intensive care unit, she said- "Daddy, Aunt Cheryl is here....and....Grandpa Norman...and Grandma Brown...are here. And Daddy, who is that sanding beside you?...He looks like you, only taller....He says he's your brother, Jimmy." Her uncle Jimmy had died at age 13 of cystic fibrosis. For nearly an hour, Sherrie described her visitors, all deceased family members. Exhausted, she then fell asleep. Later she told her father, "Daddy all of the children here in the intensive care unit have angles helping them."

This brought tears to my eyes. Peyton had his own guardian angel in his room with him that day. At the time of his surgery my parents described that the spirit was very strong in the room....and that he was being looked after.

"Fear not, Little children, for you are mine.....wherefore, I am in your midst, and I am the good shepherd."

He goes on to say- "I have noticed that children are often more naturally accepting of pain and suffering. They quietly endure with humility and meekness." I find that so True! Peyton was home in four days on only Tylenol.

What a day that was. So happy it is in the past. It has helped Steve and I to appreciate Life and the blessings we have.

I am so grateful for those who visited and supported us during that time...who helped relive my mind from stress and worry.

We love You! :)

2 Year Appt

2011-05-23T13:59:00.004-06:00

Our Little Boy is Growing, Growing, Growing!!!

Weight- 24 lbs 6 ounces - 12th percentile (BIG YAY FOR US :))

Height- 36 inches- 74th percentile (taller than 7/10 kids his age)

We are so excited to hear how he's doing so well!

I learned from my Pediatrician that boys potty train between 2- 2 1/2! I had no clue it was that early! Any good tips, please!!

No more whole milk..we are moving on to Pediasure. Hope he likes it.

His 1st Dentist appointment is on Wednesday!

To enhance him learning more words- our doc gave a good suggestion on just rotating through 4 books instead of a big variety. Also there is a very good speech center here in town that if we are concerned we can take him to.

He had just one shot :)

GO PEYTON!

Steve and i were talking- as much fun as he is...we are SO SO SO EXCITED to have a New Baby soon!!! We are so ready and just thrilled! I want a tiny little baby I can cuddle up with again. It will be fun! and stressful lol

My Little Boy is 2!

2011-05-18T13:41:00.005-06:00

Peyton Turned 2 on May 13th! We drove up to my parents house to be closer to friends and family during this celebration :)

We went to the Zoo

Jack and Peyton ate some Birthday cake together

I did everything Sports themed for his party. The party was suppose to be a park party, but it was pouring by the time the party began. So we did cupcakes and gifts inside and then headed on out to the park to play.

It was a Blast! Thank you all for Coming! :)

Updates!

2011-05-11T11:08:00.002-06:00

I had a doctor's appointment on Monday. I found out that my Due Date is

August 17th..not the 13th

like I thought. Making me exactly 26 weeks today!

But something a little interesting...I have gained 4 lbs thus far, but I'm measuring bigger than I should be. My doctor told me at the rate I'm going I could have a 10 pound baby!!

Peyton turns 2 in 2 days!!!

We are so so excited! I love going all out for Birthday Parties, it should be a lot of Fun!! Just hoping it's good weather up North! I'm excited for all the fun plans this weekend has in store. Way excited to get together with all my Utah State friends and have a little reunion as well! I'll post pictures when all is said and done :)

goodnight...

2011-05-07T21:48:00.003-06:00

Today has been EXHAUSTING! Got up at 5 am to do a 5K.....Got to meet some pretty awesome people......That's right, go ahead...Be jealous lol

Then went on to teach 3 classes....and then headed on over to the IronMan. Pretty much the only thing that has kept me going all day..is imagining what all the IronMan contestants have been going through throughout the Day. When I saw them come into the finish line they were at 13 1/2 Hrs. Can you believe that?! The willpower.....i must say, it seems so so so appealing to me. What an achievement.

2.4-mile swim

112-mile bike

26.2-mile run

Glad to live in such a popular Town :)

SO EXCITED....and i just can't hide it!!!

2011-04-26T14:16:00.002-06:00

Aubree is coming with us to Powell this year!!!! Get ready water...we r coming!!!! My 13th time!!

Peyton's New Room

2011-04-21T19:37:00.004-06:00

It's All Done!

NESTING!!!

2011-04-20T15:29:00.003-06:00

Oh Man....Big time nesting phase. I have only 3 more things to come in the mail for Peyton's & Bradyn's rooms!!!

once these things come in the mail- I can finally take pics of the finished rooms and post them!!

All of Bradyn's clothes are hung up according to sizes and ready to go.

Everything is done and ready!!! :)

I've read "What to Expect when you're Expecting" for the 2nd time as well as "What to Expect in the 1st year" for the 2nd time as well.

When I begin to get anxious and over zealous I've been cleaning and organizing the garage as well as watching The Hills ha ha :)

And...i've been trying to eat a lot more. I've gained 2 lbs...and hope to gain more!

Hopeful

2011-04-12T14:17:00.006-06:00

So some things went on with my last delivery that I want to try to prevent as much as possible with this upcoming one. To organize my thoughts, blogging seemed like a good idea. Here are some things I want to discuss with my Doctor or better yet make him aware of....

(Warning- if you have not had a baby...probably should not read)

1- I pushed for 3 hours and 50 minutes....yes, you heard me right....3 hours and 50 minutes. Hoping this time will not be as long next time........

2- My epideral lasted 48 hours....yes, you heard me right....48 hours...as in 2 days!!! 2 days....could not feel anything from the waist down....Steve had to carry me to the bathroom...and the majority of the time, had a catheter....That was just awesome...A pretty bad experience was- steve wasn't around for me to go to the bathroom...so the 2 nurses thought they could completley carry my full weight to the bathroom...they dropped me and I pee-ed all over the floor...and remained on the floor untill Steve came and got me....:(

Now, later found out the reasons why my epideral lasted for so long is a domino effect from pushing for so long...anesthesiologist told me that when pushing so long you are applying a lot of pressure on your veins..therefore, making it easier for the epideral to linger for a long time.

3- Constipation issues for 10 DAYS! Yes, you heard me right....10 days...a week in a half. My mom told me back in the day, they wouldn't let you be discharged without having had gone to the bathroom...i think is an excellent idea....why they don't continue this trend?

But this is just the beginning of the issue...I was prescribed with special drinks that would help...nada...Steve performed an at home Enema on me....

(how fun is that, been married for like freakin 9 mos and your husband gets that wonderful opportunity)

Finally ran into my Doc's office..and without getting too graphic...tried taking matters into her own hands......nada...

It was coming down to the wire where they wanted me in the E.R. but had one more suggestion- the life saver...

After 10 days was given a surgical drink- the kinda drink patients use prepping for surgery the next day to get all cleaned out....said it would kick in way fast...had my mom watch peyton...drank and drank....identical taste to contact solution

(in case you know what that tastes like LOL)

and it did the TRICK!

Relief at last!!

Later found out, this issue was a domino effect as well- Pushed for so long lead to Epideral lasting forever- since I could not move- lead to constipation issues.

All kinda makes sense now....

I would like to ask if I could begin taking a stool softener like a week before my due date?? Don't know if that's OK or not...but worth a try asking....

4- Never cut, tore..no C-section....and would like to prevent from doing so again.

5- NICU baby- Doesn't really count as an actual issue that my Doctor could help in preventing...but just throwing that in there...that all these issues became more stressful times 10 since Peyton was in the NICU.

6- Inverted nipples- the times I had a chance to attempt breast feeding did not work because of this issue. Conidering in getting nipple shapers...and using them daily a week before due date.

For those of you who visited, probably remember me being very stressed and in tears...probably heard me say a few choice words...now you know the full detailed story why.

This picture pretty much described me-

And this picture described Steve....

Oh and let's not forget, the nurses asked me- what do you not like to eat? (at the time they did not have menus) I told them- meat. Next meal that was brought up- was a Steak Dinner....Hmmmmmm???

Let's just say when the Phone call- survey was extended to me a few weeks later- I had a few things to say...

Since I'm 22 1/2 weeks along...when do you think I should bring these issues up to my Doc...or should I say, hit him with this train of a Horror story? (I kid!)

I really think he can give me some good insight on how to prevent some of these things from happening again...i hope....Seems to me all major issues stemmed from pushing for so long...

The purpose of this blog isn't to get all negative about my past experience...I would do it all over again for Peyton. Needless to say, I thought the pregnancy and "giving birth" was a piece of cake (then again, did have an epideral)

Mainly just all the "AFTER" stuff....SUCKED!!! SUCKED!!! SUCKED!!!

Breathe in....Breathe out.....

Hopeful

Loves

TUESDAY!!!

2011-03-31T13:02:00.003-06:00

Tuesday, April 5th

Jamie's @ 6pm

Watching Wedding Videos!!!

please bring your wedding video and either popcorn, candy, or a drink to share!!!!

Hope to see ya there!!!!!

ps- boys are planning a guys night the same night! Get with Bryce for the 411

Need or Not Need?

2011-03-25T14:15:00.003-06:00

Hey Ladies!!! All you fine Successful Nursing ladies....what is your opinon of one of these...

Some of you have been so lucky as to have heard my "not so good" labor and delivery stories. One of which was the inability/lack of desire to nurse. Since Peyton was a NICU baby and I had a bad case of "flat nipples" I was not able to nurse very well...but i pumped like crazy for about 6 weeks....the sucky part was we rented one for $85/month. And then when i was in the NICU they had one on hand for me to use.

This time around I really want to make sure I give a solid effort with breast feeding..and was wondering...is it totally necessary to have a pump on hand? Even if you're successful with nursing, is it still good to have one on hand? Is it worth the money? Borrow not buy one? Will it erase a lot of stress to have one on hand in case needed? Let me know what you think. Because it is quite expensive..and just don't know if I should get one or not.

Loves

IT'S A BOY!!!

2011-03-23T13:34:00.006-06:00

Hey All!!!

First of all I need to catch ya up on Disneyland!!

We had a lot of fun! Although i don't think I would recommend going while pregnant. My back began hurting alot. Plus I love big rides..and I wasn't able to go on any of them :( But it was Fun!!!

Now for the News of the Day.....

YAY!!!! I'm way excited!!!! Excited for Peyton to have a little brother, things will be a lot cheaper (since we have most everything) and excited to see how much Bradyn will look like Peyton :)

My due date has been moved-

AUGUST 13th

It's interesting My original due date with Peyton was May 19th then moved to May 13th. And with this baby...original was August 19th and moved to August 13th. Hmmmm.....

So if you recall, I was going to meet with a Genetic counselor about some things....well absolutely no worry on our part whatsoever. Peyton's heat defect determines there is a 2.5% risk this next baby will have one as well. They did a cardiac ultrasound and said the heart looked perfect...no worries. But if we still wanted to we could go to SL and have a fetal echo...but i don't think we will. Sounded like there was no need to.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to being SHOPPING online for Stuff :) See ya!!!

Loves

Lake Powell Memories!!!

2011-03-18T22:52:00.005-06:00

With some help from my Mom…we figured out I have been to Lake powell 12 times. I want to go down memory lane a little bit and talk about my memories with each trip…. More so for my personal records...I’m feeling a little nostalgic today. Of course I included pics as well…

Before getting the houseboat…when I was younger I went on 3 trips. We just camped out. Totally not providing pics for these 3 trips ha ha…

2002 –Amanda, her Dad and uncle- Amanda invited me on this trip. I remember going snorkeling with bright lights that were under the water to help us see, rats climbing on the boat at night, and getting hit by a large deer on the side of our van coming home in the middle of the night. So sad I don’t have ONE PICTURE from this trip!!! Amanda, do you??

2003- Highschool trip- HAVE Oh so many memories!! I went with Jamie, Aubree, Amanda, Brittany, and Cara. I remember having boat tire issues on the way there…taking pics of Brittany sleeping in the car, the boat driving over some large stick and me bursting into tears thinking the trip was over, Britt and Aubs having a burping contests at night, Jamie and Britt sleeping on a futon that took over 75% of the tent lol…And of course, me and Britt being burnt to a crisp while everyone else is golden brown..and my dad driving Cara next to a rock wall..that had scared her to death :)

then later that year...we got the houseboat

2003 Katie- I remember laying out a lot. I do remember skinny dipping…amateur style..ha ha…we would get in the water and then take our swim suits off ha ha…

2004- Jamie and Joyce- Well what can I say, skinny dipping with Jamie of course is a HUGE memory of mine…let’s just say we got a pretty clear picture of us in the water…we both saw it and ripped up the evidence ha ha….”the huge monster in the water” And my extensions falling out and dropping all over Jamie and Joyce’s legs on a tube ha ha…they were screaming…I was laughing but sad that they had fallen out…Ended up taking a lot of my real hair with it…my hair ended up being high above my chin after it was over ha ha..

2005- Megan & Savannah- Ok Lots to talk about with this trip So on our way there we had a couple of cars going down and my parents Suburban broke down…we waited and waited in some small town and my Dad kept talking as if we would just have to go home. And I was NOT going to allow that to happen. So I grabbed Meg & Savannah, Amber, and her friend Marlene and hopped into the car and began driving to Powell on our own not knowing whether or not my parents were actually going to be coming. We stopped in P-town and slept over @ Veater’s house (a friend I had met through Joyce at USU) It was so Fun! We went 4- wheeling around town and roasted marshmellows. Once we got to Powell we had someone take us and all our stuff from the dock to the houseboat…and realized we had no food or water and was literally DYING! We then made a big sign and began screaming for someone to come get us to take us back to shore so that we could run somewhere to go eat. Someone did come get us…went and got something to eat…By the time we got back to the houseboat..my parents were there with everyone else…and proceeded to have our trip ha ha. Of course…skinny dipping with Savannah! We found this little cove…got naked on shore and ran into the water…so fun! I also remember their was this little boy with us that year that had a big crush on Savannah…ha ha…

In 2005 I also went with Aubs- wow….well let’s see Skinny dipping memory for sure! This was the ULTIMATE most Hilarious Skinny dipping story ever!! So…we decided to go skinny dipping and began hiking around the area…came to this rather large cliff..and thought hey let’s get naked and jump off the high cliff into pitch darkness..and hope everything is OK down at the bottom…as we were about to undress..my Dad turns on the house boat’s spot light straight at us…we began yelling “turn it off” but he wouldn’t so we got undressed anyway..jumped off landed in water…ha ha…but didn’t think that we would need to climb up off the rocks..so one of us turned the other way and took turns climbing out of the little cove back up to the cliff to dress. Another memory…my brother Ben and Aubs took a bunch of scandalous pictures…we went home and I made a story book out of the pictures…HILARIOUS!

(most all of you have seen this book)

2006- Mission (Didn’t Go, obviously)

2007- Jamie-I actually don’t think we went skinny dipping this year. Jamie was married and asked her to go right after I came home from my mission. I felt so bad..she was home sick for Bryce….It was like a 6 or 7 day trip…what a tropper for coming! But I do remember boating through some pretty canyons and me asking her a bunch of sex qts..that was fun ha ha…

2008- Steve and I were engaged-Finally taking a BOY with me to Powell!!! That was fun! No skinny dipping….or was there?? Hmmm….ha ha…

2009- Peyton was 3 mos old- Didn’t Go

2010--Peyton's 1st year- So fun to bring my little boy with me to my home land of Lake powell…he loved it! Although he had a huge fever..his molars came through that same week..poor guy…but he loved the tubes! And yes, steve and I did go skinny dipping…ha ha… rated R style LOL. First trip being a Married Girl to Powell!

I just Love Lake Powell so much. If you haven’t been, you are missing out! You’ve got to Go!!! I LOVE IT!! I will always feel like home there. Everytime we leave my mom gets out a chair places it on top of the house boat and will just burst into tears each time we have to leave…I feel the same way too!!

What can be better…Sun, Friends, Water, Boating = MEMORIES!

Peace Out!

2011-03-11T19:53:00.005-07:00

MONDAY!!!! HERE WE COME!!!!

PICKLES!!!!!

2011-03-08T12:27:00.002-07:00

I CAN'T STOP EATING PICKLES!!!! PICKLES FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER...AND IN BETWEEN!!!!

OK- so I had my Appt today....so I have a Flap in my heart...not serious at all....no procedures necessary....pretty much i need to see him once a year to make sure the flap doesn't turn into an ASD (which is what Peyton had) and then I would need a procedure to take place. 25% of the population has flaps in their hearts..some want to take care of it and get it attached..so they go through with a procedure. If I even felt like that- he recommend me not to since it would require high doses of radiation that would be harmful to the Baby.

ALL IS WELL!! I'm 17 weeks tomorrow!!! and have gained 3 lbs.

Loves!

Not a Happy Post...:(

2011-03-04T15:41:00.003-07:00

This is a sad one.....

I am posting this experience with not all the Facts

So...as some of you are aware...last post I was explaining how I've been having weird things where my arm, upper lip, tongue..goes numb and begin to see black spots...And I told my OB of these things and he set me up with a Cardiologist appt...So I go in and asks for me to come the following day for a Bubble Echo. So I go in..it was cool...i layed down on my left side...had an IV in my arm and they pumped saline through my body and as they were performing the ultrasound I would tighten my ab muscles..and if the bubbles go through one way of the heart..then they know there is a hole..and if they didn't then they know everything is OK...

Well.....

There is Hole....a large one...:(

Sorry, I'm going to start crying......

I'm so scared and emotional right now.....

But I do have to go through a procedure to get it fixed....in Salt Lake....

But they told me oftentimes I have one of 3 options

1- Catheter through my femoral artery, they will patch up the hole

2- Go down my esophogagus and come to my heart from the back side..and clamp the hole

3- OR decide not to do anything at all

These procedures can be done while being pregnant. There is only One Doctor in the State of Utah that performs these procedures. Interesting thing is that me having a hole and Peyton having had had a hole...completley unrrelated. It's not genetic. It's a complete rare fluke. I thought that was quite interesting...

I'm not quite sure I want to be carrying a baby while going through this procedure....

My follow up appt is on Tuesday...so I'll ask everything....

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE-

The doc goes...ok enough of the worrisome stuff...you're 16 weeks along right...i said yes...he says- wanna know the sex of your baby? And said Umm....YES! He dragged the ultrasound thing on down...and TOLD ME!!:)

So that was exciting news. I wasn't going to find out till the 23rd.

I'll post after my appt on Tuesday

Loves

Health issues ~ 15 weeks

2011-02-23T12:34:00.006-07:00

I really don't want to make a big deal out of any of this. I haven't really wanted to talk about it.

Some weird things have been happening to me lately. I will be just sitting on the couch and my entire left arm goes numb, upper lip goes numb, tongue goes numb, can't speak..and I begin to see Black spots...once I take Tylenol it all goes away within 15 minutes. This has happened 3 times. And has only happened ever since I've been pregnant.

(although I remember it happening during my 3rd trimester with Peyton...but only once)

So at my Doctor appointment a few weeks ago I told him about it...he seemed quite concerned. Said it could be strokes. And thinks something could be wrong with my heart. So he set me up to get an EKG- which I did a couple of weeks ago. And next week I have a Cardiologist appointment (March 2nd). I actually have always wanted to be checked out especially with Peyton's ASD (atrial septal defect) I have always wondered if something is wrong with mine or Steve's heart. So I think it's good how this has all worked out so now i can get checked myself. IF something is wrong...I will go up to SL and have a catheterization done. Which is the procedure they will go through my Femoral artery (leg) and patch up a hole. Even if I am pregnant they could do this procedure. Although, I think i would want to wait?? i dunno.

I have also been a little worried with this baby's heart too (since Peyton had a defect). So when we find out the sex on March 23..a specialist from Salt Lake is coming to do a Cardiac Ultrasound on me to examine the baby's heart in the womb to see if it's likely this baby will have a heart defect as well. What is on the side of it being ineffective is that all babies are born with holes in their hearts..peyton's just never closed up...so in the ultrasound we will see a hole. But I think there's a better way of telling if there are any other noticeable problems as well.

And then also I have been worred with family history and genetics of certain disorders...so also a Geneticist is coming down from SL to speak to me as well on March 23..

The Day of March 23rd will be a pretty big Appt- find out sex of the baby, Geneticist, Cardiac Ultrasound...and other routine 20 week things they do.

I have learned I can't do squats anymore with a heavy bar across my shoulders...never knew that, glad I do now:) And that I can't no longer do any toning or stretching exercises on my back or tummy anymore....so cues in my fitness classes will need to improve so that others can do the exercises without me actually having to do it with them..

My due date has gone to August 17...which would make me 15 weeks today. And I'm still throwing up every single day in the mornings.....UGH!!

We had Peyton's follow up appt for post surgery...and he looks wonderful. He's gained quite a bit..and not one concern

We are off to Vegas- there is a Radiology convention Steve needs to go to. He will be in class for about six hrs a day...and I'll be Shopping and getting my nails done :)

Pretty much walking the strip all by myself ha ha...

Loves

13 weeks!

2011-02-11T08:45:00.006-07:00

13 weeks means 2nd Trimester!!!

I'm so excited it's finally here...maybe the morning sickness will stop now!

Everything is Good, no complaints!

I have a doctor's appt today...I wrote down a list of questions I want to ask....

If it's a Boy..we are really torn between

Bradyn

(which has always been a top Fav)

or Dawson....

What do you think??

What I feel

2011-02-04T20:57:00.003-07:00

LONELY :(

I don't know if any of you get like this when you're pregnant.....BUT...i sure feel like it...

I think to myself- it's bound to happen...I live far away from people..

Big reason I begin to feel this way is living in St. George...and we don't really hang out with anyone...To be honest, haven't felt a Drive to...feel like I'm missing out on things up North...

Which is HUGE for me, always been the social butterfly...always always

That's why it's such a big deal...i take it harder than most, I think

I feel work keeps me pretty occupied...just some moments...when I have enough time to think about it....I begin to feel just kinda Alone. Maybe it's Just a pregnancy thing...who knows??

Sucks living far away, but at the same time love that we are a vacation home for people to travel to...and I know this is where we need to be...and have been given so many great opportunitions...me working @ The biggest Loser resort (which is the Ultimate Dream for me...still pinch myself each time I go there) And Steve close to graduating this November with such a great Job as he'll be able to continue specializing and will support us beyond what I could have imagined...:)

sigh

i dunno...guess i got to just put things in perspective...that this is the best place for us. But still wish often times I could just say Hey, gonna hang out with so and so...or do this or this with so and so.....

sigh

Thanks goodness for FB and Blogs :)

but at the same time find it humerous most of us can't just keep in touch with good ol fashioned phone calls, ya know? I myself am guilty of that.

thoughts, please...let's me know you care :)

10 Weeks

2011-01-21T15:27:00.004-07:00

So I want to go about this Pregnancy differently than last. What I mean by that is--with Peyton I was so sad I was pregnant, bawled everyday till I was about 3 mos along (since he was a honeymoon baby) I never took any pictures of me pregnant...never wrote a journal about anything Cool. And my friend, Erin inspired me--through out her pregnancy she not only Blogged like crazy..maybe like once or twice a month and also provided a lot of pregnancy pictures....So..i want to do just that...BUT i'm not totally convinced on the pregnancy pictures part. I just think I look like a huge godzilla ready to attack people (even though I didn't get that big with Peyton- a whole whopping 21 lbs.) But the idea of taking a lot of pictures does sound like fun. I already feel this pregnancy is different since we Planned for it...And also the fact I experienced a Miscarriage..more reason to cherish and hold it more as value.

In the mail I just received our 2009 blog book and 2010 blog book. And I love them! Love the concept of it all...and thought this is totally like Journaling..and when you go through with it and buy the books you have to keep Forever. So I think that gives me even more motivation to treat this Pregnancy better. Here it Goes-

Today I turned 10 weeks. No morning Sickness....the Girls are still way sore still ha ha.. Steve likes to hear me complain about them....guys are so weird...sorry little TMI

Hmmm.... went to my first appt and saw/heard the heart beat. Everything looks good! There is always the thoughts of miscarriage in my mind...Everytime i go to the bathroom i look in to see if it's red... Can't live in fear though, right? Steve & I picked out our rooms.

So yeah...how did i do??

I'll try to be more thorough later on the process....so I guess I'll do another update in a month? Yeah, I'll go with that.

Give me any feedback on what information you think would be valuable to include that I'll want in the future to look back on.

Loves

Baby Taylor's Room

New baby will get Peyton's room and this will be Peyton's new room

Called to Serve

2011-01-17T18:56:00.005-07:00

My Brother, Parker in New Zealand

Parker's Favorite Nephew..Peyton

Steve in Canada

Me in Georgia

LOVE the Blessings of serving a mission. I remember coming home from my mission and wondering about all the differences I would feel in my life from serving...it's moments like these where I take a moment to really reflect and the blessings are so apparent and real. My life is completley different from serving a mission. It has made me who I am today...I'm so happy for all the different levels Steve & I are able to relate to one another...grateful for all the late night talks I get to have with my husband of so many special spiritual moments on the mission and to connect on such a different level. Grateful for both parents who served. I hope for all my children to Serve. And love to hear from Parker often...

Yay for Missionary Work!

Baby

2011-01-14T18:40:00.007-07:00

So my 1st apoointment wasn't till Tuesday....but this morning I was kinda wiggin out because I realized I have zero morning sickness..and I felt like something must be wrong since I just didn't feel sick at all anymore...so being the anal person I am, I called in and they had me come in today. And things look Great! The baby was moving around and got to see/hear the heart beat. I am exactly 9 weeks along and due on our Anniversary ~

August 19, 2011.

Guess you don't need to be Sick to be prego ha ha.. We're excited!

Loves

Merry Christmas- I'm Pregnant!

2010-12-24T17:47:00.008-07:00

Peyton is going to be a Big Brother! So many of you know I had a miscarriage beginning of November. And found out few weeks later that I was pregnant again....doctor had me come in for an ultrasound and took blood tests...and everything looks great. Research has shown it's uncommon to have 2 mis carriages so close back to back like that...so we feel confident things will go well. Also, it seems this is really meant to be. Plus it's Christmas! Best time to annouce it! I'm any where from 5-7 weeks along. I'll find out more on my next appt on Jan 18th. YAY!

loves

Peyton's Christmas Present!!

2010-12-17T16:35:00.003-07:00

DISNEY LAND!!!

You think he'll like it?!? I know he's a little on the young side....BUT...this trip is mainly for Steve & I. My parents are coming with us to be our little baby sitters! Plus, what grandparents wouldn't want to be there for their grandchild's first experience at Disney..? :) WOOT! I'm excited!

The True Meaning of Christmas

2010-11-30T12:59:00.003-07:00

Willow Tree Nativity

My Mom & Dad gave us half this set for Christmas this year and then Steve went out and got the rest of the set. I LOVE IT! I can't stop going over and looking at it. I felt the Spirit so strongly as we were setting this up. This nativity set truly shows us the true meaning of Christmas. May we always remember this event!

1 1/2!

2010-11-15T14:38:00.003-07:00

Peyton is now 18 months!! Crazy!

Stats-

Weight- 20 lbs 10 ounces~ 2nd percentile

Height- 33 inches~ 70th percentile

Head Cir-18.6~ 34th percentile

Doc said he's doing great!

And he loved nursery on Sunday!

Most Creative 26th Birthday!!

2010-11-11T17:22:00.008-07:00

I thought to write a post about my Birthday...it was quite creative of Steve :)

So I woke up in the morning to find the computer opened and it said "Play me." I pushed Play and he had done a movie of what was going to take place in the day's events (he was @ work)

As he was narrating the video their were pictures that went along with it.

So the video began by telling me that I would find my breakfast in the fridge....in the fridge were cinnamon rolls and then when to drop Peyton off at a neighbors house to be babysat while I go to Red Mountain (where I work) to get a massage...

Redmountain Resort & Spa

Desert Dream Massage

Sweet Deal...since I work there I got 45% off!

The video proceeded to say after I come home from my massage a mystery guest would be showing up at the door...and that it wasn't going to be Ryan Reynolds, Matthew McConaghey or Bradley Cooper :(

and then Flowers were delivered! :)

Then the video said Steve would be getting home @ 2:45 and we'd go eat @ the Pizza Factory (my Fav)

So after Dinner we went to the mall and I bought some jewlery. Then we went home to watch a chick flick and had ice cream cake! (Fav) And had a Pumpkin Spice Frap @ Starbucks (first time...and Yes, Jen...amazing!!)

Awesome Birthday! So creative of Steve! Loved it!!

And here's the video Steve had made, so you can actually watch it for yourself :) lol

Thanks for reading!

Loves

A Loss

2010-11-07T12:56:00.004-07:00

So I really wasn't planning on telling anyone this. I don't want anyone to think I'm doing this for attention....I debated about it...And thought blogging is such an easy way to express my feelings....I've been too down about it and need girl support....

I had a miscarriage....:(

But I'm not too depressed about it....I barely had found out last Tuesday I was pregnant...and that I was 4 weeks along...and then 3 days later...began bleeding alot....and a lot...and a lot.... went into the doctors...

And waited a couple of days, took a pregnancy test..and it's a negative....

But it could be worse-- I could have experienced having a miscarriage furthur along...and could have found out after announcing it to everyone... it could have sucked way way more....

But at least I know my IUD hormones are FINALLY away from my body and I should be getting pregnant way quick now...hopefully...

Interesting how Peyton came with little effort at all...and know I actually feel like I have to try.....

Hopefully my upcoming Birthday week will be better...

Thanks,

Loves

Peyton's Heart Surgery

2010-10-14T12:00:00.004-06:00

Wow! It's over! And all I can say is it went so much better than I thought it would. He acts as if he never had surgery. He's crawling and pulling himself up onto everything..just like he always had been! Boy, were my expectations wrong! He's doing great! Everything went awesome! No complaints whatsoever! Now, I'm just very anxious to get back home to our life in Saint George. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers...:) Check Face book for pictures!

STRESS!

2010-10-06T13:15:00.002-06:00

So we drove up from Saint George all ready for Surgery today....and.....not gonna happen. Peyton had gotten a fever over the weekend, we had taken him into a our Pediatrician (thinking that was the right thing to do) well, he was given some antibiotics to get rid of the fever...and it completley jeopardized him having surgery......(DUMB DOCTORS- should have called our heart doctor up North to have asked) And with all this chaos made us eliminate the possibility for him having the catheterization done. So....thankfully, they resceduled us for next Monday. Which was totally fine with us cuz we were planning on being up here for that long anyways....so everything is working out. For a few days though...we were in a lot of Limbo and waiting....and waiting....now, we have answers!! Now, we can enjoy this week and get even more prepared than we already felt like we were. I personally, feel like I will still break down and have a very hard time saying goodbye to him and seeing him for the first time after Surgery....those will probably be my breaking points...not looking forward to that. But he needs this. All will be well.

Yes, Peyton is in fact a Boy

2010-09-16T18:57:00.004-06:00

I can not even tell you how many people I meet a day that asks- "Your child is a boy, right?" People seem to think all the time that Peyton is a Girl. The name doesn't help, totally understand that...BUT seriously. My favorite one was at the doctor's office....Peyton is wearing a Blue one-sie that says Momma's Boy...and here comes a nurse...."Now..your daughter is looking excellent....." SERIOUSLY!! Once the correction is made, there is the..."Oh well, he's just too pretty to be a boy.....just look at his eyelashes!" People- he is a BOY!! I laugh about it now. When he was first born, I took offense to it...a little....just kinda funny.

I got all of Peyton's surgery papers today.....:( SO SO HARD & EMOTIONAL!! Does any one have any suggestions on like muscle relaxant/anxiety pill that I can take during that week? I really think I'll need it.....

PS...SO EXCITED & READY FOR FALL!! Freakin St. George, get cooler!

Love ya!

Wednesday, October 6th :(

2010-08-29T20:41:00.003-06:00

Peyton's Surgery Date is:

Wednesday, October 6th

(sigh)

We are still wanting to go the route of catheterization. The day before his surgery he will be getting another Echo...and we'll then find out if he's a canidate for the catheter....if not, he will already of Surgery scheduled for the next day. Keep on prayin....:)

On a lighter note....look at this adorable picture....

Peyton, Stockton, Jack

We just spent a weekend with these adorable boys and their parents in Panguitch for Jack's one year birthday. They, along with Aubs gave Peyton the cutest Build a Bear dressed in scrubs so that he has a little friend for the hospital.

We love you Nelson and Koelliker Family....the greatest friends ever!

Love, Me

Two year Anniversary

2010-08-19T22:24:00.004-06:00

HAPPY 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

8.19.08

Today was our Anniversary! Things We did in Park City-

Alpine Slide/Zip line

Lunch @ Loco Lizard....AMAZING!!

Movie- "Eat, Pray, Love" = very good:)

SHOPPING!

Dinner @ Eating Establishment

Main Street

And of course, watched our wedding video

It was a blast! I've realized that so many of my dreams have come true being married to Steve. I love knowing that we are right on track of accomplishing EVERYTHING that we have ever wanted to do in this life. Love it!

Maybe we'll get just as lucky tonight as we did 2 years ago...(if you know what I mean...) lol

Lake Powell 10'

2010-08-15T18:59:00.003-06:00

This year was Peyton's first time at Lake Powell. The week started out with him having a high fever...which led to the fact that his molars are coming in...It broke a few days later. Then the rest of the trip he was a sweetheart. We had a great time!!

Heart Broken

2010-07-29T11:31:00.008-06:00

As most of you know, today was Peyton’s appointment to see the Pediatric Cardiologist….an appointment we have waited over a month for.

I’m not going to beat around the bush, so I’m just going to fight the tears and say it….

Peyton is in need of open heart surgery

My heart feels so compeltley crushed…your child in your eyes is perfect. Perfect just as God intended for them to be. And it’s so so heartbreaking to hear of an imperfection that needs attention.

Our doctor explained everything very thoroughly with us…went over the anatomy of the heart and explained how he has a VSD and that we have the option of going one of 2 ways--

Both procedures will take place in Salt Lake at Primary Childrens.

Either he has a catheter that is inserted through the femoral artery and a patch is placed on his heart. But if the cath lab does not feel comfortable on doing this on such a low weight child…as peyton…then our next option is Surgery. She stated how some go the route of the cathether placement but then find out it doesn’t work after all and is then admitted into surgery. So it’s the possiblilty of going through 2 events…or just with one event which is--surgery and getting it all over and done with.

Essentially, we get to make the choice. We feel at this time if we hear back that the Cath lab without any hesistancy feels 100% comfortable in placing the patch…we will go that route. But if they don’t feel comfortable---we will do surgery.

It is also up to us when we are available. We are to give them a date and onward that we are available for..and she will get us in. Our doctor stated that this situation isn’t urgent or emergent but is a “gosh, we need to do something about this soon.”

We have a lot of things coming up in August so we are thinking of telling them we are available August 29^th and on…..although I feel i'm being selfish..

If the catheter is the route we go for…we will be in the hospital for one overnight stay. If surgery takes place—he’ll be in for 5 days.

(I will totally NEED visitors ps)

Peyton’s heart condition has answered a lot of questions—Q: why is Peyton weighing the same 18 pounds he did at his one year appt…A: Peyton’s heart has been working so hard it burns so many calories leaving his body at a low weight. They say once this procedure is complete his weight should double immediately. It sounds fun to see Peyton being chubby.

Why has Peyton been sick a lot? RSV, Rosyola, etc…

His heart condition has made it so that he can’t fight viral infections well and has been harder to have a strong immune system.

One question I would like to know the answer to—is why couldn’t this have been detected in the womb through all the ultra sounds I had while pregnant? And will this effect other children we have as well?

Please pray for him. I have been bawling non stop since 7 am this morning….

I’m not going to ask—why me? I’m too strong in the gospel to even become close to asking myself that question. Trials are given to us for growth and learning. And that no trial is given to us upon which we are not able to bear. I can do this. We will do this.

Thanks for reading

Loves

OMG!

2010-07-24T11:32:00.007-06:00

So I taught a Hip-Hop Cardio class last Friday at Fitness Ridge...and guess who was there!!!???

SIONE & FELIPE!

from Season 7 of The Biggest Loser

I was so Star-Struck...I didn't say anything....! I need to get used to the fact that contestants from the show stop by every now and then!

NOW I can begin to freak out!

2010-07-05T16:01:00.002-06:00

Yay!!! I'm officially hired. My position at Fitness Ridge is called: Test Administrator/fitness instructor!!! I'm so so happy! Prior to graduating i knew I wanted to be associated with a corporation bigger than just a Gym..and when I researched Fitness Ridge early on I knew it was the perfect place! Then after graduating being pregnant at the time I often wondered if I would ever do anything with my degree....I seemed like it would be awhile till I could...

My dream has come true!:)

I hope to get the Job!

2010-06-25T22:00:00.006-06:00

I'm sure many of you know..but through out high school...I knew exactly where I wanted to go to college and exactly what I wanted to major in...I can think back being the age of 9 and imitating Kathy Smith's exercise tapes...I got certified at 18 and have taught various places various classes. As I was finishing up college I researched where I would like to work. And it kept being made known to me that Park City and St. George are the greatest locations for the fitness industry...And began looking into Fitness Ridge Resort.

SO... I don' t know if I should freak out quite yet.....?? BUT I had an interview at Fitness Ridge Resort today aka- The Biggest Loser Resort. For those who don't know much about the show Biggest Loser...The show is filmed at the Ranch in California...and Fitness Ridge Resort..located in St. George is partnered with the Biggest Loser and what the resort does is they have people from all over the world come stay for 7 days or more...and they are put on a 1200 calorie diet and they attend lectures, spa treatments, personal training, and go through many exercise classes every day through out their stay. Their ultimate goal is to obviously lose weight..while vacationing...

SO....in Aug 08 I interviewed at Fitness Ridge while Steve had interviewed for the Radiology program. Unfortunately he didn't get in that year so i pretty much had to let Fitness Ridge know that we weren't moving to St. George anymore....Well, now that we are here...I went in today....AND........

Had an amazing interview! Honestly, could not have gone better....She told me that I would be the perfect person to work for the Resort. Not only for my qualifications but the fact as well that I am a Mom. She talked a lot about how so many women will be able to relate to me so well...and she also expressed how confident she thought I was. And the most awesome part was the fact that she did not have a problem at all that I haven't really taught since having Peyton... I loved when she said...it takes most women a year to get back into the fitness realm of things after having a baby.

So this picture is going to totally be me....lol

SO....through out this whole next week M-F I'm starting by coming in 2-5 to attend 3 different classes to get the hang of things, and how they are taught and what not....then she told me that I will be meeting with HR and be put on their sub list. She did mention that even being on the sub list I should be teaching 1-3 classes per week....

So like I said I don't know if I should begin to freak out yet or not.....kinda sounds like it's in the bag....BUT...I don't want to get my hopes completley up yet.....BUT...... you get the picture!

In previous blog posts I have stated how I haven't felt completley fulfilled being a stay at home mom...and I feel like this will be my break through..a sense of contributing to society...and doing what I LOVE to do!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T18:33:00.017-06:00

So...I know of some pretty GREAT Dads...Let's Begin with my Dad.. My Dad to me is very unique in that he takes a sincere interest in my Life. I've known of so many Dads growing up who never quite involved themselves in their daughters lives...and I am so proud to say that my Dad isn't one of those men. He has always been so fun and has been all of my friends Favorite Dad to be around. He has done so much for me...To name a few.....

He Voluntairly took this lovely group to Lake Powell for my Graduation Trip....I've thought to myself what kind of a dad would do this sorta thing for their daughter...take a bunch of friends, camping out in the sand for 4 plus days....? my Dad. And we loved it.

My Dad was one of my inspirations to serve the Lord on a Mission. I was raised in a family where both my parents had served and he was there for me at the very end...when all was said and done....Exhausted as I was..he was there as I stepped out of the doors in Georgia to finally go home....

When I came home he made sure he had purchased a car for me and took me up in a hot air balloon ride...why? Because he knew I would like to...

He even put me up for Sale....lol

And then this fella came along...and swept me off my feet....

My Dad was there for me at my wedding, like all good Dads are....

Shortly after we were married I found out I was pregnant....Steve became my Rock. When dating him I made sure he possessed the same qualities as my Dad. Being a Father has come SO SO naturally for Steve. He is truly MEANT to be a Dad....:) It has been so amazing to be married to someone and watch them sculpt into a Father...

He's been there for Peyton during his 1st diaper change.....

This picture signifies a lot to me in that Steve will be there to support Peyton and to raise him up in times of trouble and need.....

I know that Steve will always provide for us...and will be the Dream and Ideal Dad that I had to our children. These Men are very Special to me and will ever remain special. How I love them So!

Happy Fathers Day!!

Peyton's Echo

2010-06-03T10:23:00.003-06:00

Peyton got an Echo done. It went well. They gave him LOTS of sedation medicine...he kept fighting it so they had to give him an injection of the medicine besides the regular dose. That was sad to see him asleep like that. We'll hear back from Primary Childrens soon. I'll keep you updated.

New Zealand!

2010-05-26T21:24:00.008-06:00

MY BROTHER PARKER GOT HIS MISSION CALL TO........

NEW ZEALAND!!!

I am so so jealous!! I love the movie Lord of the Rings...well I grew to love it!! And this is where they filmed it!! I'll tell you what I so want to save so Steve & I can go see him!! So So excited! At times I'm like how do they really decide where missionaries go...I mean really? Obviously they follow the Spirit, but seriously....I went to Georgia of all places! Which I loved...I'll be honest wasn't too excited initially...because I wanted to badly to go foreign I wrote ALL over my papers how I wanted to go foreign, learn several languages, go to the hardest mission ever, and endure the harsh-est conditions on some remote island....I know many of you may think- What Brooke on a remote island? She's too girly girl...but for real though I wanted that so so Bad. Don't get me wrong, like I said loved Georgia.. But I'm so so Jealous of Parker!! Every missionary's dream is to go there!! I just remember the church quote that says:

"you're chosen to serve where your personality, abilities, dreams, and goals are perfectly woven and matched with the people that inhabit that land."

Congrats Parker!!! I'm so so excited to scrapbook every single picture of your mission!!!

Loves

Peyton is Uno!!

2010-05-19T23:34:00.011-06:00

A year ago this sweet little boy came into our lives....

And now he is ONE! Peyton had the BEST BIRTHDAY EVER! This is what we did:

ZOO

PEYTON CAUGHT A FOUL BALL AT A BEES GAME!

Kind of weird-ed out by the mascot lol

At Peyton's party he had 6 boys come and 1 girl!

The Most Amazing Cutest Birthday cake I have ever seen in my LIFE!!

We kinda went all out and Peyton had 3 cakes at his party. One for everyone, (which is in the back) a smash cake, and the amazing cute cake (which I couldn't bear to eat it was too cute)

Needless to say...he did have few bites but most of it he just kept smashing....

Our friend Daniel Olsen took Peyton's 1 year pictures!

It was an amazing weeknd full of so many fun things! He even got a swimming pool for his birthday along with toys & clothes:)

STATS:

WEIGHT: 18 LBS 10 OUNCES

LENGTH: 29 INCHES

HEAD: 18.3 INCHES

Peyton is into everything now! He is crawling everywhere and has 6 teeth! Not walking yet...He is still in the 3rd percentile for his weight. But once again the doctors don't seemed worried at all. One very exciting thing is now that he is a year....no more bottles! He goes on to whole milk:) And he loves it! A kind of sad thing...at his doctor's appointment the pediatrician was checking his heart beat and told me it sounded very strange and told me to go downstairs in the hospital to get an x-ray done...so the pediatrician rushed to give him 4 shots and to hurry him downstairs. I did and turns out we will be taking Peyton in to do an echo-cardiogram~which is an ultrasound of his heart. He didn't seem to worried. At his 9 month appointment the doctor had noticed he had a heart murmer. So hopefully, it's nothing serious at all. I'll keep ya'll updated. And remember if you're heading South come visit! Oh and PS we are going to start trying again....Soon!!! ha ha

Thanks for reading!

Loves

Love, Me

2010-05-05T19:37:00.008-06:00

So Many Fun times are ahead....Mothers Day is on Sunday!!! It feels so cool to actually feel like Hey, this day is for ME!! Cuz I am a mom! Gives a good reason for Steve to shower me with gifts and It makes me feel so grateful to be a mom and for my cute little Peyton. Speaking of Peyton....he's turning ONE next Thursday!!! What the Heck!? Time has flown by so so fast! I am so EXCITED for his Birthday Party next Friday too....let's be honest I love planning anything!!

And am so excited for my friend Jamie to have her baby soon:) And so so excited to be going home next weekend for all this Fun to occur!! Steve just finished his first semester with straight A's in every class!! Goes to show you everything he's been learning has become so natural for him to grasp. He's off for a few weeks and starts back on May 24th. I'm so grateful to have a husband who values furthering his education and is pursuing a career in health care which is such a worthwhile, secure work place. Love you Steve! And am so dang grateful for my friends! And feel so spoiled to be living in this house! And Happy Mothers Day to all of you! Even with some of you who have your lil baby in the oven!! This day will take on a whole new meaning!

Ps. Go Suns!

Summer Already? Yes, Indeed!

2010-04-09T16:49:00.005-06:00

Dixie Rock

It feels like summer already here in Sunny St. George! Come Visit!

Creative Side of Steve

2010-03-31T19:17:00.006-06:00

So.....Steve cooks, scrapbooks, AND designs invites/announcements!!! Ha ha....these are his ones he's designed....it begins with his amateur to his most recent work of art:)

Randomness

2010-03-30T14:06:00.003-06:00

I wanted to give ya'll an update in Peyton. He is doing SO SO much better! And are so happy to say he is cleared for RSV. No more of his cough, running nose, fever...nothing! How I love this warm weather in St. George. Everyday we enjoy playing catch in the backyard, playing on the grass, and taking walks. We really like it down here a lot. And as of right now, feel this will be home for the next 5+years. Peyton is SO close to crawling it's ridiculous. He gets in the crawling position and then flattens back out on his tummy! I want him to begin crawling so bad, but at the same time am not ready to proof the house yet. :) His two front upper teeth have cut through. I can't believe he's going to be turning ONE in like 6 weeks! Ps. for you all who have had kids, how did you personally come to know you were suppose to begin trying again? (maybe too personal, sorry:))

I have such an awesome experience coming my way this week...a convert from Georgia is coming to Utah and we are doing baptisms for the dead in the Oquirrh Mountain Temple....SO EXCITED! How amazing it will be to witness someone I taught the gospel to doing work for the dead. I've done baptisms with her before in the Atlanta, Ga temple. I want to go to Georgia right now SO BAD! But know it's a little unrealistic right now. Sometimes I wonder- does anyone remember me? Then at a moments notice am reassured from a text or a phone call from a convert letting me know how much they appreciate me.

So we all have a thing that we are overly obssessive about whether it be....decorating, cleaning, punctuation or grammar, gardening....well, mine is scrapbooking. This all began a little after we got married, I always feel so inclined when we take pictures to first save them on our computer then to develop them and scrapbook them. I think this could have started when I saw the commercial of these parents pictures being destroyed or something and they had their 4 year old standing in a crib and the parents were taking pictures trying to recapture the photos they had lost and the commercial was for some computer talking about the need to save your pictures etc. Sometimes I find myself second guessing if all my pics are accounted for....I know, I know I sound crazy! But just love pictures and the memories that are created from them. A little obsessive! Just out of curiousity- what's your thing?

Poor little guy:(

2010-03-19T21:15:00.002-06:00

Peyton has RSV.......:( His test came out positive for it. I had a cold and then he must have got it from me. For RSV the only things you can do is vapor rub on their back, feet, and chest especially before they go to bed at night, a humidifier, nose drops along with suctioning. He's been so so clogged we've had to take him to a Bronchiolitis Clinic for them to suction him. What happens is they take a catheter and drop it up his nose and suck out all the crap. Needless to say he DOES NOT like it. When babies have RSV they have little to no desire to eat especially their bottle (cuz they can't breathe right) So we get him suctioned in the morning at the Clinic before he is able to eat his bottle in the morning. He's already so slender!!!:) So they have now discovered he has an ear infection too. So he's on medication for that too. We aren't able to go to church with him or any shopping centers of any kind for how contagious he is. The doctor has told us his cough can linger for a good month.....oh his cough is so so sad sounding. Nevertheless, he is still sleeping through the night! Hopefully he will get better soon!!

Baby Contest

2010-03-01T16:19:00.001-07:00

This is the picture we submitted

So..we entered Peyton into Regis & Kelly's Beautiful Baby Search about two months ago. The winner gets $125,000 towards a 4 year college education and a year supply of Gerber foods. Unfortunately, he was not chosen as one the top 10 semi-finalists....:(

BUT.....

his picture will be on the show this week!! What day? We don't know...so we have the show recorded for each day this week:) Just something Kinda fun & exciting.

9 MONTHS

2010-02-16T16:41:00.012-07:00

ZIONS NATIONAL PARK

PEYTON TURNED 9 MONTHS ON FEBRUARY 13TH!!!

STATS:

WEIGHT: 16 LBS 11 OUNCES~ 3RD PERCENTILE

HEIGHT: 28 3/4 INCHES~ 70 PERCENTILE

HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE:17.9 INCHES~ 56 PERCENTILE

I know what you are probably thinking....holy cow 3rd percentile!! Yep, we have one slender little dude. When entering into our visit the nurse says "Whoa, he weighs as much as my 6 month old!" In my mind I was like...hmmm...thanks. Peyton is categorized as a high-risk baby. He's 16 lbs but with his height he should be at 21 lbs. After going over his feeding schedule with our doctor he did not seem worried at all. We just need to try to beef him up a bit! He said to us just because he's slender does not mean he's unhealthy...so that put me more at ease. A coorelation between mission and having a baby is~ don't stress about the numbers! So true!! A couple of new things to us, St. George tap water doesn't contain fluoride like up North. So we have to start giving him fluoride drops every day. As for as his eating, we need to introduce him to meats. And power pack his bottles. And as for as movement skills, next step is for him to begin crawling. He's been sitting independently for six weeks now. As for everything else, he's hitting every growth milestone that he needs to. It's crazy how pregnancy goes by so slow but when they are out of your tummy it goes by so fast!!We love him to pieces!

Oprah

2010-02-04T10:48:00.003-07:00

I was watching the episode the other day where Oprah had on the children of the mother who kidnapped Elizabeth Smart and Oprah was talking to the children about their opinions of their mother with this situation and their was a comment made by Oprah that really hit me it was:

"BEING A MOTHER SHOULD BE THE HARDEST THING TO DO, WHEN DONE WELL"

I then began thinking about this statement. That when doing a good job as a mom, it should be the hardest thing to do. I then asked myself: Do I really feel being a mom is a hard thing? As I pondered about this question and came to this answer that- Yes, I feel it's complicated here and there but given the fact that Peyton is not crawling or walking yet and is very easily entertained for hours sitting on a blanket with a bunch of toys surrounding him...(I guess I must have a very easy going baby) And also have a husband that is here the majority of the day and ALWAYS switches off with me doing feedings, diaper changes...and what not and who always checks to make sure I'm not overwhelmed. I came to find out that- As for right now in my life I don't feel it's the hardest thing to do. Maybe I will feel later that being a mom is the hardest thing to do...when I'm pregnant again or sick....or when peyton is running everywhere...this statement can also change due to what season you are at in your life. Maybe it's because I have been through much harder things in my life? (school, mission, callings) But when answering to the statement No...not right now...I then feel like I am not doing the best I can....since the statement says....WHEN DONE WELL.....motherhood should be a hard task. Although I do feel it's hard but so far not the hardest thing I've done. Nevertheless, this is Oprah here...it's not doctrine, but an interesting concept to think about. So I wanted to get your thoughts on this statement and what it means to you and how you personally interpret it.

Then & Now

2010-02-03T10:40:00.003-07:00

We decided to do a grapevine:)

Want to know your thoughts....

2010-02-02T10:14:00.006-07:00

Ok...so recently I have been thinking A LOT about different opinions people in the church have on different topics. A lot of interesting points of view that don't make a lot of sense to me. My mother in law and I were talking about all of this late last night...

So i was sitting in Sunday school and the teacher was talking about how we need to instill qualities in our young men..that of finishing college and being a returned missionary. He talked about how his wife and him knew that if they tried to instill those qualities in their young boys then their young girls would find boys to marry who also had those qualities. So my immediate thought to this was: Why in the heck aren't these qualities being instilled in girls too? Now, I am one who did finish college and went on a mission....but seriously though why is it just the boys that these qualities are being so stressed upon. Finishing school and going on a mission can only better anyone. I understand that girls should not feel obligated to go, but i also think boys shouldn't feel this obligation to. From personal experience, if you aren't feeling the urge to go yourself, you will waste the Lord's time. It's a personal choice. But why aren't these qualities being instilled regarding both sex?

I have a very very hard time when in the church others look upon women as ok...stay at home and have kid after kid after kid...and if you need to work, fine. But you shouldn't be forced out into the work place. I DO NOT agree with that idea at all. I understand in the proclamation it reads....mothers are to nurture...So I got married at what....23 and felt like I was doing something wrong by not having had gotten married earlier and now...I feel married couples go through the stress of making sure they have babies right off the bat. For example my MIL, they were married for 3 years and she told me people constantly harassed them on "when are you going to have kids....?" And it's like goodness gracious! Just let us recently married people alone and leave it up to us!! So a lot of you reading this know I did have a honeymoon baby...wasn't exactly planned...but k so peyton is now 8 months old...and I ALREADY have this stress of "Well, brooke since you are staying at home right now...."you might as well start again...." YOU MIGHT AS WELL.....what the? I don't want to have more kids on the basis of "you might as well" I have a very hard time with these different stigmas so so many mormon parents have....on to the next one...

K. so my brother has a friend...who is a convert. Just got baptized a year ago. You know he lived the rough edge of life and he has been dating this girl rather seriously for awhile now and he proposed, she said yes. But her parents refuse to let her marry him. And why is the question? You guessed it...convert, has tattoos...and you guessed it! Not an RM. What the? Oh my goodness it just makes me want to kick box someone....you can not put that on the poor boy. He is a convert for crying out loud!!! I saw this time and time again on my mission where these young boys get baptized and fall away because there is so much pressure for them to go on a mission and they feel so badly if they can't go... For instance, this boy amazing amazing guy....is a convert, he couldn't go on a mission due to severe debt on his car...and he fell for this super cute lds girl and dun dun dun...parents would not allow her to date him because why? Convert and not an RM. All these issues just make me so so mad.

But overall, the moral of all of this is the people in the church are not perfect but the church is. And that everyone is titled to their own opinion and own way of life. I just feel that these stigmas are becoming a habit in more and more people. And it just really makes me sad:(

Cutest watches ever

2010-01-27T20:33:00.003-07:00

Love these watches! You can mix and match with the faces and different bracelet colors to coordinate with your outfit! These watches are my newest fashion statement since I have moved. If you want to save the trouble of making them your own, let me know if you are interested in where to get them!

Interior Design Project ~ St. George Home

2010-01-13T15:10:00.024-07:00

So as most of you know we live in St. George now. As Steve was going forth with the Radiology program my parents were searching for a second home in St. George as a vacation/retirement home. When Steve got accepted they asked us to if we wanted to live there. Of Course we said, Yes! My parents provided the bed for the master bedroom and then we took care of the rest. We mostly had everything anyways. We are in love with interior decorating...even more Steve than myself. He pays attention to every detail making sure each room goes together. Hope you enjoy!!

Front door

Come on In!

Master Bath

Master Bath (2)

Master Closet

Master Bath (3)

Master Bedroom

Master Bedroom (2)

Master Bedroom (3) (accent pillow currently with my mom)

"Friends & Family Gather Here" vinyl lettering. Hallway to another bathroom, laundry room, and garage.

Kitchen "Bon Appetit" lettering

Dining Area "Fondest Memories are Made when Gathered Around The Table" vinyl lettering
Love Peyton's Eddie Bauer high chair-thanks grandma wilson!

Kitchen (2)

Kitchen (3)

Living Room

Living Room (2)

Outside porch

Backyard

Backyard (2)

Hallway from the Front door entrance (still seeking for a mirror)

Hallway leading to back bedrooms

Alcove (Still thinking about a table of some sort)

Ok love this..."And this is my Joy" vinyl lettering. This saying comes from Alma chapter 29 vs 9...it was on my mission plaque and when I found this I just had to have it! So we put it with The Living Christ, First Presidency, and The Proclamation to the World

Bathroom

Entrance into Peyton's Room

Name Plaque

Bedroom

Bedroom (2)

Spare Bedroom- So with this room we decided on red, black, and white for the colors. We want people to have a feel they are somewhere foreign so the pictures in this room are that of Golden Gate Bridge, Taj Mahal, overlooking Rio DeJanerio, and Egyptian pyramids

Spare (2)
Love this Comforter...I call it my wedding dress comforter. When I found it I just had to have it!! It's pleated with what looks like jewels from afar...are buttons

Spare (3)
Great Wall of China and the Eiffel Tower

Spare (4)
Instead of a headboard we used various sizes of mirrors to make the wall appear larger. Their is also a black nightstand to the left of the bed.

Oh ps...Peyton is sitting now:) Happened on Dec 30th

Peyton's Room ~Jungle Theme

Love the willow trees in his room

Love you Peyton! He turned 8 months old today!

Moving down the state

2010-01-06T20:05:00.005-07:00

We have now lived in Logan, West Jordan, and now St. George...Arizona, next?

F.R.I.E.N.D.S & FRIENDS:)

2010-01-04T09:44:00.003-07:00

For my birthday Steve got me all ten seasons of Friends...well we have finished them all in 6 weeks! How sad...but oh well. Love that show!!! When watching the show it makes me think of how great my own friends are in my life. A huge blessing we have recieved is when we moved out from our apartment. Jen & Ben, Daniel & Ashley and Erin & Paul were such a huge huge help!! Thanks to them!! Erin & Ashley even cleaned our entire place. I love it when friends take on service opportunities, it really shows they care:) Thanks guys! You are the best!! Aubree Healey even drove down with me to help us move in...she dealt with my narotic "let's get this all done Now!" attitude...love her!!! Her and I even experienced the 24- hour flu together :( For all those reading this...although we have moved away to St. George..don't forget us!! We love you all! I have a strong feeling this move will be permanent for quite some time...Please visit!!

Glimpse in the NiCu

2009-12-13T17:50:00.004-07:00

The nicu
My nephew is in the Nicu.
I can’t help but reminisce on what my experience was like when peyton was in the Nicu.
The nicu is a place of worry, sadness, and miscommunication.
You feel like every nurse has no clue what they are talking about…no one can clearly explain to you what’s happening in lay man terms…every nurse becomes your worst enemy. The are going on shifts or leaving and never know quite what to say…the only question that you are thinking of is…when will my baby get to come home? The nicu is a place you never expect to go to. The worst is when you are discharged from the hospital and leave without your baby..You are in a state where the last thing you want to hear is everyone else’s experiences…you are being denied to hold your baby, caress your baby, at times to feed your baby. All you have is hope and your heavenly father to lean on. Everyday seems to get better or worse…No one understands what to say or what not to say…Then the day finally comes when you receive a phone call and the voice on the other end says…”He’s ready, come get him.” You are finally filled with so much happiness. My experience will always remain a negative experience because of what I went through. I hope when future kids come it will be a sweeter experience. The nicu is a place no mom will ever understand what it's like unless they have gone through it themselves. The important thing is, peyton is totally fine now...and I have that to be always grateful for. I learned from this experience to have a higher sensitivity towards others that go through the nicu as well as patience...things happen in life you can't explain or predict..I love you Carter! Get well!!:)

Friends temple night

2009-12-06T20:01:00.003-07:00

The holiday season is coming!! And being inside the temple during December is the best! Friends couple night Sat, December 12th 7 pm session. Draper Temple. Be there at 6:30 in the waiting area inside the temple. Hope you can make it!

My Parents R Amazing!!!!!

2009-11-26T16:29:00.004-07:00

So... as most of you know we are moving to St. George January 4th for Steve to begin the Radiology program at Dixie State. Well, my parents decided to buy a second home in st. george and are letting us rent it!!!! yay!!!! I am so so so excited!!! It's brand new 4 bedroom 2.5 bath and 3519 square feet with a 3 car garage!!! And what the best part is, they close the end of december so we get to move right in! After thanksgiving dinner they also surprised each of us married couples with 7.5 feet tall christmas trees with huge boxes of ornaments!! Please please please if any of you are ever coming down to St. George for any such reason in the next few years...please come stay with us!! We will even put mints on your pillows and make you breakfast in bed!! I am so so excited to start decorating!! yay!! Love love my parents. Thanks mom and dad!!!

Church Quote

2009-11-08T13:53:00.002-07:00

“It isn’t as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out. Don’t worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. If you do your best, it will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. … If we will put our trust in Him, if we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers” - Pres. Hinckley

Any suggestions?

2009-11-04T17:56:00.002-07:00

So lately I have been having a hard time with not thinking life is so routine. I feel like all I ever do is change diapers, feed peyton, clean...ugh, which don't get me wrong...all things I love to do. But at the same time it's crazy how different my life is. Let me give you an inside look to me. I have a very strong personality. In the past few years I feel I have accomplished a lot by going on a mission, finishing college, getting married...honeymoon baby...And I feel like I have been so accustomed to my mind constantly being stimulated. Always learing, learning, and learning. Studying anatomy, the gospel, teaching kick boxing classes...getting all cute and ready for the day...to now I am a stay at home mom. And my mental stimulation comes from Oprah and Rachael Ray. Now, don't get me wrong..I do like being a stay at home mom. But at the same time I don't think I have the personality for it. I really truly don't. I feel their are many girls that can chill at home, be bored...have routine days and be so happy and content. Although, I do love Peyton a lot it's just not cuttin it for me....I need something....work? maybe. I dunno...it's a complicated situation cuz I don't want to have to do day care because I'll be down in St. George soon with no one to help out. Make best friends with ladies in my ward and get them to babysit? Who knows.... I am a very extroverted person that loves taking risks, setting and achieving goals.... and now, what goals do I have? It's hard. For all you moms...are you going through this same issue? How can I view life more optimistically? I know, I know...read the scriptures, find the answers. But is their more I can do? It has led me to take on scrap booking..something I have wanted to do, ok...got the hang of that now. So, now what? I feel so so limited on what I CAN do.. I would give anything to be back in college right now..pursuing a masters degree, perhaps? But in what? I'm at a loss. And I feel like it's those moms who are SO much like me, that can fall into post pardum depression so so easily. Because you are use to going going going to now....being a stay at home mom. Sure, I can go on walks..but once, again...I need something more. Please Help!!!

Family Pictures~Daniel Olsen Photography

2009-10-30T16:59:00.007-06:00

The Devey Kids

Brooke, Steve, and Peyton

Lil sis Amber ~ 20

Devey Side of the Family

Ben And Krystal

Little bro Parker~ 18

Heather and Chris

Mama Mia and Papa

My parents just finished their landscaping in the front and back yard. Let's just say..it cost

a lot. So we decided to take family pictures there. It had been four years. A lot has happened since then. Me, Ben, and Heather all got married within one year from each other. Peyton came along in that year. And Carter will be coming in December.

HE GOT IN...

2009-10-23T17:38:00.002-06:00

So Steve has been accepted into the Radiology program at Dixie State. This program is a two year program. Once it is completed he will recieve a degree in Radiography. His job title will be a radiographer. aka Rad tech. This two year program is credit wise, equivalent to a Bachelors Degree. Dixie State is turning in to the University or Utah in 2011. Which is a reason why Steve wanted to go to St. George. So when he graduates his diploma will state U of U. Once he completes the program we plan to move back up here for Steve to specialize in Ultrasound from the U of U. This will last for over a year. As he specializes he will be working as a Rad- Tech for the hospital. He will then have a job title as an ultrasonographer. The more he specializes, the more the salary will drastically increase. There are many areas to Radiology. The more you learn, more money you get. So that's the plan! St. George here we come! As for me, I bawled when I found out...mostly because I'm sad to go. This move will be very very hard for me. But it's only temporary, it will be ok! We already have a place to live. It's a 3 bedroom town house. So cute!! Now it's just a matter of getting the student loans, grants, and scholarship money under way. The program has insisted Steve does not work during the program. Because of this, we will live off of student loans. But Steve still will get a part time job with IHC so we can remain having the benefits of free health insurance and 100% tuition reimbursement. The program begins Jan 2. We hope to move after Christmas. Also depends on the part time job he finds. Thanks everyone for your love and support on this journey! This is a dream come true for Steve!

LOVE THE FALL...PICTURE TIME!!

2009-10-17T19:04:00.001-06:00

I JUST LOVE PEYTON OH SO MUCH!!!

Peyton's First Time Swimming

2009-10-13T16:13:00.001-06:00

Oh my...he loved it!!! Did not cry at all!! Just kept smiling and kicking!

Broken and True Friendships

2009-10-10T16:28:00.002-06:00

I find it so intersting to me that as time goes on you really come to know who your true friends really are. This week I had some interesting experiences. To not go into too much detail...I have been shocked at how you think you know someone so well and are so close to and then all of a sudden they can erase you from their lives because of issues they are having with them selves. Or you think of someone as a good friend and they can suddenly exploit your name with out getting facts straight about everything. I feel I have a lot of close friends, but have found it's better to be more selective because it's so easy to get hurt by others. And then their is a sweet experience I had last night with someone who once was a best friend and despite our struggles in the past it has made us stronger and I still consider her one of my best friends today. YOu know who you are!! Friends are in our lives for a reason.

"Some people come into our lives and stay but a small moment while others trace a path on our hearts that lasts for an Eternity and as a result we are never the same."

I am so grateful for all of my friends. Love all of you!