Giles Journal

RN

2012-01-10T10:38:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it, in fact it hasn't really hit me, but I'm now a licensed RN! I'm sure it will hit me once I get a job and start to work, but for now it seems like a dream. One of those things that you never thought would actually happen. Something you always wanted to do and never thought would come! But it has come, it's weird and exciting all at the same time. I actually accomplished something. Something that has taken a long time is now done! I never have to test for a license of this nature ever again! It's crazy!

Thank you so much for all of you who stood by my side and helped me through this. Especially my family. My family is the most incredible family in the world. They stood by my mood swings from lack of sleep and stress over exams. My incredible family who took care of my boys without ever complaining. I love you all so much! There aren't enough "Thank yous" I could ever say that would make up for all your sacrifices. But THANK YOU! You are all the best! I never could have done this without you.

2012

2012-01-06T12:53:00.000-08:00

It's amazing that it's 2012. I feel like I just left for school in 2010! I can't tell you how glad I am that that part of my life is over! Now all I have to do is take my boards exam!

We have been really busy here. I decided to go through the boys toy room and get rid of things they no longer play with and make room for all the new things they got for Christmas. This job ended up being bigger than I imagined it would be!

While I was doing the toy room, Doug decided to keep Drew occupied by teaching him how to play chess. If anyone knows my husband, he really likes chess. He has quite a few chess boards and takes every opportunity to play. For Christmas this year, I found a chess board and pieces that I couldn't pass up...they are GIANT!

Drew was having a great time learning and Doug was having a great time teaching him.

I wish all of you a healthy and happy new year! Go 2012!

Two words...

2011-12-23T13:51:00.000-08:00

WE'RE HOME! I have finished school and the boys and I are now home with Doug! It still hasn't hit me that I'm here for good...other than graduation next month. We got in last night and the boys are loving it (for now)! We'll see how it is once the holidays are over and they are bored out of their mind.

I finished nursing school on the 16th of December. It's such a nice feeling to not have anything to study for. All except for my nursing boards. I'm playing the waiting game right now for authorization to test, until then it's studying the review books and playing with the boys!

I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Drew's first week

2011-09-04T11:03:00.001-07:00

We survived our first week of kindergarten! Drew is absolutely loving school and asks everyday if he can go back. His teacher is fantastic! I couldn't ask for anyone better. She is so great with the kids and knows how to keep them interested and wanting to keep going. He comes home everyday with something new to share with us. In fact, the other day he asked a girl at school if her name was Ashley. She said, "How did you know my name?" Drew said, "I read it on your backpack." This was so awesome for me to hear that he read her name! I didn't even know he knew that "S" and "H" made the "Shh" sound!

On Wednesday, Drew was given the "math bag" to take home. He had to put something in it to take to school that they could do math with, and come up with a question(s) for them to solve. So Drew got some candy and each kid got four pieces. The questions: If you have four pieces of candy and you gave two to a friend, how many pieces do you have left? If your friend gave you one piece back, now how many do you have? Drew was able to solve both of these questions and then teach his class how to solve it.

On Friday, he told me that his teacher gave them green magic potion to drink and it turned them all into Spiderman with invisible webs! His imagination is getting bigger and it's only been the first week of school!

I have become a very proud mother! This week will be interesting since I start school again and now we'll both have homework to do. I can't wait and neither can Drew!

1st Day of Kindergarten

2011-08-29T13:01:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it, my boy started kindergarten today! It's so amazing how time flies by. One minute you have these little kids, and before you know it, they are in school.

Drew has been so excited for this day. He has talked about it non stop for the last week. Last night I couldn't even get him to go to bed because he was just too excited! Drew said, "Mom, I get to start kindergarten tomorrow. And that means I am going to be a grown up boy now." It's true, my boy has grown up!

Well Drew isn't the only one excited for this day, I have to say that I am too. Drew gets bored really fast now and needs something to keep his mind going. I am so excited that he will now be challenged a little and learn so many new things.

Drew is in the afternoon kindergarten class and we did it this way because the daycare that he goes to, the owner buses the kids to this school. So Drew is in a class with some of his friends from daycare, which for me is nice because he already has friends. In fact, when we first got there, he was able to see the older kids from daycare out at recess, and they were telling him that they can't wait until afternoon recess so they can play together!

Preston was so cute this morning. When he saw Drew with his backpack, Preston had to get his as well. When I took Drew's picture this morning, he had to have his taken as well. And then when we dropped Preston off at daycare, Preston looked at Drew and said, "I love you Drew!" It made my heart sing to hear him say that!

Well, there you have it. My oldest is now a school goer just like his mom, and we couldn't be more excited!

It's me again...

2011-06-14T17:29:00.000-07:00

Time is getting so far away from me that I feel like I'm losing my mind...I probably am losing my mind! A quick update for Drew. Since he has been on his medicine we have not had a single seizure...knock on wood! The medicine seems to be doing it's job and I am so thankful for that. The only noticeable thing is that I feel like I have a teenage girl at my house sometimes! His mood swings can be all over the place. But if this is the only side effect we are facing, then I can handle it.

Preston is still Preston. As mischievous as ever and oh so full of attitude! But I'm loving every minute of it! He loves to be outside, and we are so thankful that Utah has finally graced us with some warm weather.

As for me, school is taking up most of my time. When the boys aren't around, (they spend the days in preschool), I can usually get my studying in, but when they go to bed, I am frequently found with my face in a med/surg book, or working on a case study of some sort. I am doing 12 hour clinical rotations on Saturdays at Timpanogos Hospital and am loving every minute of it. I couldn't ask for a better instructor, especially since my instructor last semester was so rotten. This is my second to last semester and I am super excited...and super nervous!

On another note, my sister-in-law comes home tomorrow from a year or so deployment in Iraq! We are so excited to see her and can't wait to hug our soldier! Thank you Jayme for all you have done for our family and this country. You rock!

Day 1: A choice was made

2011-04-12T22:19:00.000-07:00

Well, the neurologist decided that the right medication for Drew would be leveriracetam (Keppra). He will be on the lowest dose to start out with and if he does ok, then he'll stay on that dose. If not, then they'll increase it. The good thing about this drug is that the side effects are minimal (tiredness, sleepiness-which will go away, irritability, and sometimes insomnia) and you can't get toxic off of it. The aggression and irritability are a couple of my biggest concerns, but the doctor said that if he shows signs of this, call them back and they can adjust things. My other big concern is that being on drug therapy requires a two year commitment. Drew has to be on the medication every day for two years. If in that time he has no seizures and a normal EEG, he can come off of the meds. I'm hoping this works, and that I don't forget to give him his medicine. That would be bad. So, today was day one of the drug and so far so good. Even though it was day one, and it's not really in his system yet, I have felt much better. Drew did good today, but it was only day 1! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this drug works. Love you all so much!

Drew's results

2011-04-07T10:36:00.000-07:00

Ok, so here is the big update about Drew. Tuesday we went to his appointment for his EEG. This is where they put about 27 electrodes on his head, then covered the electrodes with a gauze wrap to hold them in place. It looked like he was wearing a bicycle helmet!

He was then asked to do all sorts of things, open his eyes, shut them, open them, shut them. They then asked him to blow on a pinwheel for 3 minutes. It was such a long time for him! He would blow little bursts of air, and then a few long ones! After that the technician told him to close his eyes and try to rest. I ended up having to lay in the bed with him to calm him down. He was so restless. After they did that, the technician came back in and did a strobe light test. This test is done to try and cause a seizure. Well, Drew handled it just fine and no seizure happened.

When that was over, we headed down to have his MRI done. They were initially going to sedate him because they needed him to be really still. But they decided to do a trial run so see if he could in fact hold still. They put headphones on him and goggles which played a movie. I went to the recovery room and waited. They came back about 30 minutes later saying that he was able to hold still and the scan was done. We could go home. This was about 10:00 in the morning.

Later that afternoon, about 1:50, he had another seizure. This was probably due to his lack of sleep (they wanted us to sleep deprive him a bit before the EEG). I was so glad that we had an appointment with the neurologist the next day, Wednesday.

Well, when we got to the neurologist's office on Wednesday afternoon, the most wonderful PA came in and did a full neurological check on Drew. She was fantastic. The results to the tests the day before were in and she and the Neurologist gave us the news. Drew's MRI was normal. No tumors or lesions were found...Yay! Then the EEG. They found an abnormal burst on his EEG during his rest period. So what does that mean? It means that the likelihood of Drew having a seizure again in the next 6 months in 90%. It also means that since his MRI was clean, he has a great chance of outgrowing the seizures!

Another thing we found out is that he has Epilepsy. The definition of epilepsy is two or more seizures. Also, epilepsy is basically a diagnosis for idiopathic seizures, meaning they have no idea why or what causes them. And since Drew has had two unknown seizures within 10 days of each other, this is his diagnosis. So, now what do we do? The neurologist said that it is a good idea to treat him with medication. He told Doug and I to think it over and decide which drug route we wanted to start with. The drugs will prevent him from having seizures. Which, being that summer is coming and he'll want to be swimming, he should be medicated. What else does this mean? That this will require a two year commitment. He must be on the drug for two years. If within those two years he doesn't have a seizure or any severe side effects, then he can be taken off the medication. This also means that we will be experimenting with the drugs and their doses, since the side effects can be tamed with dosage adjustments.

So, there you have it. Our son has epilepsy. But don't be too afraid by that word. If you don't like it, use seizure disorder...it's the same thing. Epilepsy isn't as scary as people think it is. It just means that from now on, Drew needs to stay hydrated, have enough rest, and needs to have some sort of supervision. Other than that, he is a normal kid who can do normal things, like play T-ball-which he had his first practice yesterday!

Thank you to all of you who have prayed for us. It has meant the world to me. Please keep us in your prayers that we might find the right drug for Drew and that it will control his episodes. I love you all. I couldn't ask for greater family and friends.

Update on Drew

2011-03-31T11:33:00.000-07:00

Drew has been doing really well since the seizure on Saturday. In fact, he has more energy than he has had in a long time. It's the weirdest thing. We are on a waiting list to see a Neurologist and they are booked at least two weeks out. So who knows when that will be. But I did get an appointment for his EEG and MRI. He will be having those done on Tuesday. He will have to be sedated for the MRI, but I am really glad we are having it done. I'll post the results whenever I hear. Thank you to all of you for your prayers and support. It has meant the world to me. It's nice to have friends and family that love you so much. You all are absolutely wonderful!

scariest moment of my life

2011-03-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would let you all know that last night at about 5:00pm, Drew had a seizure. We were on our way to dinner when he had it. I can't even begin to tell you how terrified I was. In fact, I was sobbing so hard, so much that I couldn't keep myself together. You think I would be able to handle that, but I couldn't. He was taken to Primary Children's Hospital, where he was checked over and observed. Today he is doing fine, although he is under constant supervision. The poor kid can't even go to the bathroom by himself. He will be seeing a neurologist sometime this week to determine the cause, but for now he is doing well. Thank you to all of you who have been there for us and who are praying for us. I will update you when I can.

what's happenning

2011-03-23T10:19:00.000-07:00

Things here have been quite busy. We are in the process of getting Drew registered for kindergarten, signed him up for tee-ball (he is very excited for), and I have been quite engrossed in school. In fact, I just finished a huge paper...23 pages...and am getting ready to begin another one. Oh how I can't wait for this semester to be over!

I've been doing my clinical rotations at St. Mark's hospital. It's been a great experience clinical wise, not so much on the paperwork side! I have been able to go to every unit except two right now. Those two would be ICU and the Women's Center. We will actually do the Women's Center next semester.

My favorite place so far has to be the Emergency Department! I have been able to assess patients, start IVs, run IV fluids and lots of other things. It is definitely the place to be to learn how to do things. And the nurses that work there are so willing to teach. They love having students around, and I love that they love having us. It makes for a really great time.

Drew and Preston have been playing outside as much as they can. The weather here has been so "bi-polar" in a sense. It's good one day and the next is crappy. A couple of weeks ago, we had a huge snow storm. We had 14 inches at my grandparent's house! So the boys put on their snow gear and headed out to play.

They were having fun making snowballs. Well, I was the one making the snowballs, they were the ones throwing the snowballs!

Drew was loving that the snow was piled on top of the deck railing. He would take his snowball and throw it at that pile to make a hole in it. This made for some entertainment for him!

Preston loves the snow. He didn't want to come inside at all, even after his gloves were soaked and he wanted them off. That kid could play anywhere in any kind of weather!

Preston the other day came up to me because he had to show me some artwork he had done. He was so proud that he was able to make such a unique picture. "Mommy, look! I did it!"

Yep, at least he was honest!

Well, we are doing pretty well here, just waiting for the weather to warm up.

Ready for spring

2011-03-02T18:49:00.000-08:00

Oh spring, where for art thou? The boys are chomping at the bit to get outside. So, the other day we played in the snow. Drew will play in it for only so long, but Preston on the other hand, could stay outside forever.

Preston either wants to be in the deepest part of the snow, or eat it! I'm trying to teach him that if he is going to eat it, it has to be "clean" snow. Drew tells him all the time, "Don't eat the yucky colored snow, it's not good for you!"

Things here are going well. School is getting really busy. I feel bad for my boys, they don't get a whole lot of time with me. They are in daycare five days a week from 9-4 and then on Saturdays they are with their grandparents until 3. I can't wait until I'm done and can actually be a mom again!

Doug, I believe, is doing well. He and Daisy lounge on the couch in the evenings watching Sport's Center or some movie! I know he gets bored, but he is doing well. We sure miss him.

remaining open

2011-02-25T18:53:00.000-08:00

Due to the influx of people who have enjoyed viewing our blog, and the amount of requests I have been getting, I have decided to keep it open. I didn't realize how many people liked it, so for now, the blog remains open. I hope you will all enjoy reading about our adventures here. Thank you everyone!

going private

2011-02-22T18:26:00.001-08:00

I am making this blog private. All those that would like to view this blog please email me at dandcgiles@msn.com. I promise, this new blog will be updated at least weekly. I have made it a must, so please, come and visit us!

TWO

2010-12-04T20:38:00.001-08:00

Two...TWO! I can't believe Preston is 2! It has come so fast, but let me tell you, his attitude has been a two year old for the last few months! His birthday was on Thursday, but we celebrated it today.

He has no idea what is really going on, other than the fact he got presents! But I think Drew was more excited for this birthday that P was! He kept getting all excited over every present Preston was going to open! I wish I had my video camera going.

I hope you enjoy these pictures of Preston opening his presents. He sure enjoyed this part of his birthday!

5 years old

2010-10-04T15:14:00.001-07:00

I can’t believe my little boy is 5 today! It’s weird to think that Drew has been in our lives for five years. Its five years I would never trade.

Drew is an amazing boy! He loves movies…Transformers for one, and LOVES pizza! He sleeps with about 6 different stuffed animals and knows when one is missing! He absolutely loves to play with cars, and of course, his transformers!

Drew is loving preschool and can’t wait for kindergarten next year! He says he can’t wait to be in “big school and make cool friends!”

I wouldn’t trade any moment I’ve had with this awesome boy! I have so much love for him, as does his dad, and we can’t wait to see what 5 year olds are all about!

Happy Birthday Drew! We love you so much! Hooray for 5!

School...

2010-09-27T20:32:00.000-07:00

How many books do I really need for three classes? Seriously!

I just hope it won't be as bad as I think it will be! It's going well so far, but we have just begun.

Oh, and before I forget...I got a job! I'm going back to a place I worked at about 5 years ago. I'm excited to see those that are still there that I worked with! I start orientation next Monday.

soccer fun

2010-09-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? I'm actually blogging?! I know, I can't believe it either. But here I am!

The funnest thing we have been doing lately is watching Drew play soccer. He is having so much fun, although he has a hard time engaging in the cluster of kids around the soccer ball! Drew has a little bit of anxiety when it comes to a group of people, especially if he has to try and take something from them...like a soccer ball!

He is doing better. In fact, last Saturday he got the ball and took it down the field! He was so excited! But I do have to constantly tell him to go for the ball. If I don't, you can find Drew sauntering down the field...almost skipping. Just running in circles!

Preston is having a hard time with not being able to go out on the field and play! He wants to be a part of the team so bad that he cries when I have to pull him off the field!

Drew is loving soccer and can't wait until Saturdays are here so that he can play!

A couple Saturdays ago it was Lagoon Day for my dad's company. The boys had a blast! Drew was able to ride most of the rides this year! Oh-and he had to ride them by himself if he could!

This year, Preston was able to ride almost all of the kiddie rides. He LOVED it!

The hardest part was waiting in line. Once we got past that, this is the face you would see!

And last, but certainly not least, we got to go home over Labor Day weekend. I can't tell you how much I have missed my house and my husband! It was such a great weekend, in fact, I really didn't want to come back! I wanted to stay in my home and relax in front of the television with my hubby sitting next to me!

Clumsy

2010-08-17T08:35:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've ever known someone as clumsy and Preston. I don't know if it's the fact that he is only 20 months old or what, but he is sure clumsy. I say this because yesterday we spent about an hour or more at the Urgent Care Clinic. Preston had fallen off his chair in the kitchen and landed on a toy and this toy sliced his eyebrow open. So we were at the clinic for stitches...or so we thought.

When we got to the clinic the doctor thought they were going to stitch it because it was such a deep cut, but then she decided she would glue it together instead. I'm glad, because I know Preston and he wouldn't leave the stitches alone. We still had to put a band aid over the wound because Preston keeps picking at it and I really don't want it to open back up.

On another note, I forgot to post pictures of our display at the Highland Fling. It's not much, since we didn't have a lot of stuff, but I think it turned out pretty cute.

Carseat covers and blankets

Belts and tutus

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Now Open

2010-08-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

Our Etsy shop is now up and running. There will be more things added to what we have there. Also, if you see something you like but want a different size, let us know and we'll be happy to make it for you. We are in the process of doing infant bow ties and hopefully child ties as well. Just click my Etsy button on the left and it will take you there!

The Twisted Stitches

2010-08-06T20:48:00.001-07:00

The girls in our family have started a business. We will be making all sorts of things like: car seat covers, blankets, tutus and purses and belts. Tomorrow will be our opening day and it will be at the Highland Fling. If you are in the area and watch to check us out, please do. The name of our business is The Twisted Stitches.

After the Fling, our business will be online with Etsy. More details to come later.

update

2010-07-29T14:36:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to report that Drew is doing just fine. He is back to his normal self. Oh, and he is excited to share that he was able to sign up for soccer. My cousin, who is Drew's age, is playing and Drew wants to play with him. I'm not a soccer person, so it will be interesting to try and help him play.

Our E.R visit

2010-07-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last night we spent three hours in the E.R. Drew fell last night while on a walk and bumped his head and scraped his hip. Thirty minutes after that...he lost his vision. He couldn't see anything. We tried handing him things and he wasn't even close to grabbing them. We tried to get him to look at us and he couldn't, he just looked right passed us. So my dad threw him in the car and we headed to the E.R.

My poor little guy was so freaked out that he couldn't tell if he had to throw up or pee. He didn't even know he'd hit his head, and he has a big bump on the side of it. It was so scary. After we'd been there for about an hour, maybe a little more, his vision slowly returned. They did a CT on his head and said that all was ok and that he has a minor concussion.

Today, Preston is at daycare while Drew and I relax. The doctor said for him to lay low for the next couple of days and he can return to school on Friday. Right now @ 10:00 am, he is still in bed. I sure hope he feels better today.

24th of July weekend

2010-07-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun weekend. Doug was able to come up and see us! The boys just loved having him here...and so did I!

Saturday, the boys were in a parade for the 24th of July. Drew was able to decorate his bike and ride it. We also decorated the wagon and put Preston and Isabelle in it.

That was the hottest day ever! I can say that I will not be doing this next year. The lady over the parade asked me if I would help keep the back of the line of kids going. The children were the very front of the parade and then the color guard. So it was my job to make sure the kids and parents stayed in front of the horses...not an easy task. I finally had to tell people to keep off to the sides so that the horses could pass them up. People would stop to talk to other people on the sidelines and so they got really far behind. Which made me really far behind. Luckily for me my mom walked the parade with us. She ended up taking the wagon to keep up with Drew so that I could tend to the people lagging behind.

After the parade there was a carnival. The boys were able to get their hair spray painted and Drew also got his face painted. He said he was the "Hulk" because of his green face!

Sunday we headed to Pleasant Grove and played at the children's discovery park. It's a great park all made of wood. The boys loved it! We will definitely be back!

Help

2010-07-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

Needing help for a name for an Etsy shop. You idea will be put into a drawing of what names we like the best. Click here for your entry.

July

2010-07-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

July seems to be going by really fast. I feel like we just had the fourth! But here is what we've been up to. We went to Richfield for the fourth for a family reunion on Doug's side. I was glad to go because that meant we got to see Doug! We rode down with Doug's parents and had a really good time.

Drew enjoying the water slide

Boys enjoying the train

It was also my birthday this month. I was sad to not have Doug here to help celebrate, but I did get a nice phone call from him! My family took me out to dinner at Texas Roadhouse...so good! I'm glad that we were able to celebrate it together. Thank you to everyone who sent me a birthday wish or gift...you are all awesome!

This last Saturday we went to Draper Days. Oh my gosh it was hot! I think I sweat from every pore...sexy huh? It was fun, other than the part where I was thrown up on by my little man. I'm not quite sure if the heat got to him, or if he really wasn't feeling good. It happened just a couple of minutes into the fireworks...go figure!

This weekend the boys will be in a parade! Drew is way excited to decorate his bike and ride in the parade! We will be decorating the wagon for Preston and his cousin Isabelle! I hope someone will be on the sideline taking pictures!

Girls' Night

2010-06-30T16:40:00.000-07:00

Saw Eclipse last night with my mom and two sisters! We had so much fun and my picture says it all! The movie was great...I wouldn't mind seeing it again! Thank you Jacob Black for images like this!!

Our Soldier

2010-06-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

Friday night, my sister-in-law, was deployed. We were able to go and see her off, which was quite the experience. An experience that I hope we don't have to go through again. To see all the families that will be without husbands/fathers, mothers/wives is crazy.

There were tons of pregnant wives of soldiers leaving. Lots of families with tiny babies and little kids. It's just sad. My brother handled things well...and so did Jayme. It will be weird not to have her here for the next year, but I know she'll be ok.

While we were there, they had a line of bikers holding flags. These bikers ride for "Fallen Heroes." It was really cool to see. They stood in front of the airplane that was taking Jayme and her unit. And then as the soldiers were boarding the plane, they stood with their flags in two lines for the soldiers to go between...super neat!

I'm so glad though that we were able to go and support Braden and Jayme at this time in their life. Jayme, we love you and miss you already. Hope you are doing well. Don't forget that we are here praying for you and your safe return.

Hugs and kisses!!!

WARNING...picture overload!

2010-06-03T23:35:00.000-07:00

We have survived my first two weeks of school...thank heavens. It's only been two weeks, but let me tell you, it's just beginning!

The boys have had such a great time so far...yes, they miss home and miss their daddy. Drew asks me at least twice a week when he gets to go to his "real home." We'll make it though. Doug was able to come up for the holiday weekend. He took Thursday and Friday off of work and had a long weekend with us.

We went bowling in Provo to Fat Cats. What a great time we had. It was my parents, us, and my sister and her little family.

Drew loved being able to roll the ball down the lane. The lane actually records the speed of your ball and I think Drew's fastest ball was about 3 miles an hour! But he had a great time!

So did Preston. Even though he didn't have his own frame, my dad and I let him bowl with us. He would get so excited when he got to roll that ball down the ramp and watch it know those pins over!

Preston wasn't really paying attention and ended up tripping over my brother-in-law's shoe and fell into the ball return. As you can see, his left eyebrow swelled up quite nice. By the next day it was a nice black eye.

After bowling we went to this really cool place called Pirate Island. It's a restaurant and arcade. The entire place was decorated all pirate like. There was a big ship with a skeleton man sitting on the plank. Every so often it would thunder and lightening, and the skeleton would talk. Then the ship would shoot out smoke rings from the cannons. The boys loved it! Our waiter was nice, all dressed up as a pirate...he even talked like one. I'm sure his voice by the end of the night was so hoarse.

After dinner the boys played in the arcade. We ended up with 519 tickets. Seriously. Drew and Preston got swords and an eye patch with their tickets.

This week the weather has been good, so the boys wanted to play on the slip 'n' slide. Drew was great and would actually do it. Preston wasn't so sure. My dad ended up throwing him down the slide!

Preston did really enjoy drinking the water...or trying to drink the water!

Izzy is just enjoying the sun. What a cutie!

Daisy is enjoying the water. She sat under one of the sprayers and let it get her all wet. It was really funny to watch her!

So this is what we have been doing for the past couple of weeks.

safe and sound

2010-05-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it to Salt Lake safe and sound. My dad came to help us pack and move some of our stuff and I'm so grateful to him for that. Once we got into town I had some things I had to get done before my orientation on Friday...I guess that would be tomorrow! I had to buy a certain color of scrubs and sew my school patches on them...sure hope they stay on!

Like I said, I have orientation for school tomorrow and I'm super excited about it! We'll be getting our books and stuff. I'll have to have a picture taken of me in my school scrubs with my new look. I'm back to blonde with short hair and bangs! The bangs are taking some getting used to! But I'm loving them.

I'll be blogging more often since the husband is back home in Mesquite and will want to see the boys. So I need to get my tush in gear! That's all for now!

Change

2010-05-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

A HUGE change is about to take place here at the Giles' house. A change that we have been waiting for for a long time. Although, not to the extent that it is happening.

I have finally been accepted into a nursing program! I start May 24th! I can't tell you how excited I am and can't wait to begin...and to finish! This program is 18 months long and goes straight through, (no summers off).

So this is a big change, but not the biggest. The school is called AmeriTech and is in Draper, UT. Which means that me and my precious boys will be moving in with family in order for me to go to school and we will be leaving our amazing husband and father behind. Yes, Doug will be staying in Mesquite since he has such a wonderful job, and we have our beautiful house. We will be doing the every-other weekend visiting and toughing this out for the next year and half.

Our main reasons for deciding to go with this program is the fact that I start now and finish in 18 months, the school has a passing rate above 90%, and my wonderful boys will not have to be in daycare. Which means Preston will not be getting sick the entire time I'm in school...hallelujah!!

My dear family has volunteered their babysitting services for us while I am in school. I can't tell you how blessed we are that we have such a supportive family. We won't be able to do this without them. A thank you just doesn't cut it.

So this is what is going on with us. I hope I will be able to keep this blog up for Doug while he is home working his tail off, not just with work, but with our house and yard. I love you Doug for being so willing to live without us during the weeks. You are such an amazing person and I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!

Happy Birthday and a carnival

2010-05-01T01:06:00.000-07:00

My awesome husband turned 29 last weekend! I know I'm late posting it, but who cares...I'm posting it!!

Saturday was Mesquite days, so we went to a parade, (Doug says they threw the parade just for his birthday)! And then afterwards we went to the carnival. It was small, but it was nice because there weren't any lines for the kiddy rides!

(These guys are from Shriner's Hospital)

(Yes, even the missionaries were in the parade)!

The boys had a blast! Preston would cry when he had to get off so we would hurry and try to get him on another ride! He and Drew's faces were priceless! I just love seeing how much fun they have on those things! It makes me smile so big!

It was really hot, but we survived with a little shaved ice! If you know me, I loved snow cones and shaved ices!!

After nap time, Doug and I got a babysitter and headed up to St. George for dinner at the Pizza Factory, in celebration of his birthday. The Pizza Factory did not disappoint! Super yummy and I suggest anyone looking for a good pizza and bread stick place, go there.

Now, my gift I got for him I was SUPER EXCITED about! I finally got him something that he had no idea what he was getting! So when he opened it up, I surprised to find out that he knew what is was!! SERIOUSLY?!! I got his tickets to see Brian Reagan at Tuachan. I've had those tickets for a couple months now and hid them where he had no idea.....how did he know?! I have no idea, but he somehow always figures things out.

After dinner, we headed off to Lowe's to buy blinds. Yes, we finally bought blinds! And they have totally changed the appearance of our house! I love it! I will post pictures of our windows now that the blinds are in them!

Well babe, I know it's late, but I hope you had a good birthday. It was fun to spend time with you!

Daisy

2010-04-28T21:37:00.001-07:00

There has been a lot going on here at the Giles' house! But instead of having one huge post, I'll spread it out a couple days!

Meet Daisy! A 10 week old Shih-Tzu. She is the newest addition to our family!

My Grandparent's gave her to Drew and Preston a couple weeks ago and we are having a ball with her. Drew is so good with her, making sure she is completely taken care of. He has been so good at helping us potty train her, taking her out when she needs to go, making sure she has water, and of course...taking her for walks. Although, Daisy isn't quite used to the leash and he ends up carrying her part of the way!

Preston is really funny with her. He likes to sit by her food bowl and watch her eat! He loves to say her name and while he pets her he says over and over, "soft, soft!" You can tell what we've been telling him to do when he goes to touch her!

I wasn't there when my Grandparent's gave Drew the dog, but my Grandma says that she has never seen anyone so excited before! She said that he was beside himself with excitement! Drew called me after he got her and it was pretty much a high-pitched screaming fit!!

We are all so glad to have Daisy as a part of this family! Thank you Grandpa and Grandma B.!

Giveaway

2010-03-31T02:01:00.000-07:00

Hey all! Check out this blog! You just might win a giveaway from a really neat Etsy shop called Little Lovelies! Go ahead....take a look!

day four update

2010-03-30T21:02:00.001-07:00

Just a little update on our little "burn victim"...I say that because he looks like he's been burned. It's day four and he is looking much better. The redness is fading and the raised bumps are diminishing. I'm at work right now or else I'd show pictures.

Poor little guy

2010-03-28T14:43:00.001-07:00

These last three months have not been very pleasant at the Giles' home. You see, I have this love/hate relationship with daycare. I love that I have had a place to take the boys while I'm in school. I love that Drew has a curriculum and is actually learning something. I love that the boys love their teachers. I hate that it costs so much...seriously, it's ridiculous. I hate that even when the boys don't go, I still have to pay. And I hate....HATE that ever since they started going, Preston has been sick.

I'm not kidding. Since the day he's been in daycare, he's had a cough. He's also fought a rash, runny nose, hand/foot and mouth disease, ear infections, fevers, and now he is fighting an ear infection that was so bad it was bleeding and RSV. What more can this kid get? Well I'll tell you.

Saturday I came home from work to find a HUGE rash all over Preston's body. It is one of those rashes that also come with hives. So off to the Insta-Care we go, (by the way, the Insta-Care is 40 minutes away). Come to find out, Preston is allergic to the Amoxicillin that he's been taking for his ear infection. I mean, really? My kid is allergic to the #1 prescribed antibiotic. Go figure.

So here is what he looks like. Starting with Saturday,Day 1:

Sunday, Day 2:

And you know what gets me the most? Is that he can still be happy through it all. Yes he gets whiny...wouldn't you if you constantly didn't feel good? But he will still play and smile and laugh. I love you little guy. And I sure hope you get over all of this crap.

Brotherly love

2010-03-17T11:59:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite things! They boys go outside and play, but I often find them just like this! Sitting together on the driveway enjoying each other's company!

I love that they have a place to go and I don't have to worry about them. Yeah we live right on a road that is across from the middle school, but it's not a busy street. And Preston has learned not to go in the street.

They are both still loving the backyard! Drew has been digging out all my weeds! As you can see he has to do it without his shirt! He hasn't gotten far, but lets face it, there are a TON of weeds back there!

We are headed up this weekend to Sandy to see my family. My sister is blessing her beautiful daughter on Sunday. I also have a meeting on Friday with a Nursing program! I'm super excited! Hope all goes well!

Can't wait to see you family! We have been missing you all!

Oh! We've done a bit of decorating in my spare time. It's starting to look like someone lives in the house!!

Fun at home

2010-02-28T01:22:00.001-08:00

I can't believe that it's the end of February already...but then again I can! I've never been so busy! And it's not a fun busy either. With full time school and work, plus full time mom, I don't know how I have survived, but thank heavens I have!

So I decided I needed to blog. Take my mind off of school and work and focus on the fun we have been having at the Giles' house.

My mom and my sister came to town a couple weeks ago, and I FINALLY got to see that cute little niece of mine! Isabelle is such a darling baby! Although I didn't get to hold her as much as I wanted because my mom wouldn't give her up!!

Drew was so adorable with her. He had to know where she was the entire time. And when she would cry he would sing "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" to her! It was just so cute to watch him interact with her.

Doug built a "race track" in the backyard for all of Drew's "Cars" cars. The race track he made was a replica of "Willies Butte" from the movie cars. You know where Doc Hudson and Lightning McQueen had their race?

Preston just likes to get out in the dirt and dig lots of holes and eat the dirt! I'm so glad that they are both liking to be in the backyard, even if it is just dirt!

2010-02-06T01:02:00.000-08:00

For all of you who would like our address, shoot me an email at dandcgiles@msn{dot}com and add your address to it.

a few things

2010-02-05T10:12:00.000-08:00

So here is a couple pictures of what we've done. It's not much just because I'm also in school and have no time to spend putting a house together. So it's a slow process.

But here is a picture of our couches. We absolutely love them! (Of course I think we'd love anything since we haven't had furniture since last May)!

I found the throw pillows at Target. They are just a plain white pillow and then they had some pillow covers. Awesome for me since I can wash them and not have to worry about the boys getting them dirty! As you can see, we have not blinds. Anyone know a great place to get blinds for a good deal? We are wanting the faux wood blinds.

This is the playroom. Not much to it yet, in fact I'm still trying to figure out where exactly to put everything. But the boys love it. It's the one place they can both go and do their own thing. Not to mention I love that aspect too!

And as you can see our backyard is unfinished. But the boys don't care. They have their toys out there and they love to play in it. It's so nice to be able to send the boys outside and not have to worry about them!

Well that's all for now. I'll post more as we do more.

I can breathe.

2010-01-30T02:14:00.000-08:00

It's finally official...we received the keys to our house yesterday!! I have never gone through something so stressful in my entire life. Lets just say that this past week, the box of tissues has been my friend.

But I received the greatest phone call from my realtor saying he had my keys! So now we are moving in and our furniture is being delivered tomorrow!!

Pictures and details to come.

IT'S OVER!!

2010-01-23T06:49:00.001-08:00

It's finally over! The frustration, face breaking out like a teenage girl....it's over! We were finally able to close on our house last night!! That sounds so great to say..."OUR HOUSE!"

It was quite the experience. Title companies don't make an appointment for you to sign papers until after they have all your documents. Well, we had to close last night because of expiring applications and mortgage rates, so the title company was nice enough to make an appointment with us before they had our documents. So we packed the kids up in the car and drove to Henderson, NV.

My Aunt and Uncle who live in Henderson were so nice and watched the boys while we went to our appointment. When we got to the title company, we sat in the waiting room for about 45 minutes when I received a phone call from our broker's assistant...who is the absolute best person in the world! She told us that we were still waiting because they didn't have our documents yet! Seriously...I was starting to freak out!

Finally they got them and we were ready to sign! It went by so fast. It only took about 15 minutes of so to sign all our paperwork. Since we signed on a Friday night, our loan won't be funded until Tuesday so we won't get our keys until then, but who cares...we have signed and have a house!! Anyone can come visit....and please do!!

Hooray!!

2010-01-12T15:41:00.000-08:00

I'm finally an Aunt! Even though when I got married I became and aunt that way, it's just not the same as when your little sister has her first baby!

Little Isabelle was born today! I can't wait to get some pictures! When I do, you can bet I'll be posting them!

Congratulations Jason and Whitney, I'm so thrilled for you guys!

Super Mario Bros.

2010-01-08T09:56:00.000-08:00

Has anyone ever played this game? I am a huge Mario fan. In fact, my favorite game is the original Super Mario Bros. So Doug and I saw this game and decided to get it for the family for Christmas...mainly me! In this version, you can play up to four players...the trick though is that you all play together on the same screen. Which means, you have to keep up with each other and do a great job following or else you die.

Every night after we put the kids to bed, Doug and I sit and play this for at least an hour...sometimes longer Let me tell you though, Doug is not a Mario lover, but we have had such a great time playing this together. It helps us de-stress from our day and not to mention, it's a great bonding experience for us. We have had many a nights now laughing like crazy because we can't seem to pass off a level, and when we finally do, it's been like 10 tries! (Like I said before, you all play together, following each other. And if you don't keep up, you die)! It's something both of us look forward to at night.

If anyone was looking for a great game, this one I completely recommend.

Christmas Morning

2010-01-04T00:40:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a bit late on posting about our Christmas and all the loot that the boys got, but for some reason or another life has been so crazy. I'd love to get back to blogging more often than every couple of weeks, but I guess for now, this will have to do.

Christmas was so fun this year. Doug's parents were able to come down and enjoy it with us, and we couldn't have been happier that they were here...not to mention how excited the boys were seeing all the new toys they got!

This is what our living room looked like Christmas morning.

Drew has had his big chair for a couple of years now and Preston absolutely loves it. It's the first place he goes to in the morning when he wakes up. So I decided to get him one. I bought two covers for the chairs and had the boys' names put on them. Now they can both sit by each other in their own chairs!

Checking out the fun stuff Santa brought for his stocking!

Preston had no idea what was going on, so Drew ended up opening the majority of the presents! Although, Preston had a great time in all the paper and boxes! (Why spend money on the kid when a box will do)?!

Every time Drew opened a present, he would shout, "Oh my gosh! This is just what I wanted!" Even though the majority of it he had no idea it existed! It was so much fun to see how excited he was to get all the presents he did.

Our living room after the big gift exchange!

Here are the boys with some of their loot! Preston has the lid to his drum.

Drew with a couple of Transformers that he got.

Christmas time

2009-12-24T01:07:00.001-08:00

I can't believe Christmas is upon us already. I feel like we just graduated from Physical Therapy School, (and yes I mean we!), and moved from Iowa to Nevada. I guess time flies when you are busy working and trying to buy a house.

I'm so excited for Christmas this year! The boys are at an age where they both like to open presents and they enjoy what they get...even if it's just the box! I'm excited to see their faces Christmas morning when they see their presents under the tree, and the ones we are setting up in the living room! I know Drew will be so excited that he won't know where to start, and I'm sure Preston will stand and stare at it all, taking it all in.

I'm bummed that I have to work Christmas Eve, one of the holidays that I was assigned to work. I so want to be there to put the presents under the tree and to fill the stockings. Doug said he'd wait to do it for when I come home. I won't be there to make cookies with Drew so that Santa doesn't go without his sweets. I won't be there to watch them open their pajamas from Grandma Stacey and Grandpa Todd.

I just hope the kids are still asleep when I come home Christmas morning, that way Doug and I can put things up together. And you can bet I'll be there with the camera taking in these precious moments!

Longest day ever

2009-12-18T07:37:00.001-08:00

I'm still trying to recover from our hectic day yesterday. And when I say hectic, I mean a day I never want to have again.

It started off by me and the kids going to the health department clinic here in town to for immunizations. Our Pediatrician's office can't do immunizations, or so I was told, and so we had to go to the clinic for those. We were the second people in line, which was nice, but we were still there about an hour and fifteen minutes before they finally saw us.

Drew was first. He received three shots and the flu mist. He did really well on the mist, but once the shots came, that was the end. He hasn't cried like that in such a long time. But the nurse was nice and gave him a couple suckers and a Capri Sun. After that, she let him watch me get my shot. I can't have the mist because of my asthma, so I got to have the shot.

Preston's turn was next, and thanks to the lady at the front desk for taking Drew so I could handle Preston because P got 8 shots. That's right...8. They told me that because of his age, they can't combine any of the immunizations, so they had to do them all separate. He got poked twice in each limb. I had to bear hug him for the arm shots and put one leg at a time between mine so he couldn't move them. Preston started to cry in his third shot. And then he just screamed. The nurse kept commenting on how good I was doing, but it was hard not to stay focused since Preston had so many shots coming his way.

After that, we headed to Walmart for some basic needs...bread, toilet paper, etc. We get to the check out line and Doug calls, "Court, I'm on my way to Overton, and have a flat tire. I need you." Seriously!! For those of you who don't know, Overton is about 30 minutes from Mesquite. Luckily he didn't get that far. And by the time we got there, he had the spare on. So we traded cars and loaded all our stuff into his and headed for home to put groceries away.

Once the cold groceries were put in the fridge, we headed to Big O to fix the flat. We got there at about 10:30, and found out they couldn't fix the flat. So, we had to buy a new tire. As I'm trying to keep the kids in the little sitting area, they guy keeps coming back in to tell me things. Needless to say, two hours, two tires, one Alignment, and $300+ later, we finally left.

By that time, the kids were starving and tired, so it was a quick trip to McDonald's and home to bed. I seriously never want to experience yesterday again. The only good that came of it was finding out that the Sellers finally signed all their paperwork, and the inspector will be at the house at 9:00 this morning! Finally!!

Christmas song

2009-12-16T12:41:00.002-08:00

Heard this song on the radio, and now me and the boys have been dancing around to it at least three times a day! Hope you enjoy!

Dear Santa...

2009-12-14T18:37:00.003-08:00

This year I really want a Skids and Mudflap Transformer ice cream truck, a Polar Express Train, an Optimus Prime....etc.

I took the kids to see Santa last week in St. George. Drew was so excited to see him he could hardly stand it. Preston did surprisingly well. He just stared at Santa and his white beard! That is, until Santa kissed his cheek and all that hair touched his face. The look on his face was like, "What in the heck is that?" and "Please don't do that again!" Preston isn't used to facial hair! No one in our family has any!

The boys had a great time! I just hope Drew doesn't get disappointed when Santa can't bring everything he wants.

Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-05T00:53:00.004-08:00

We put our tree up...finally!! I usually put my tree up the day after Thanksgiving. But that didn't get done because, 1. we were out of town, and 2. Doug wouldn't let me. Doug has this new rule, I guess you could call it that, that we must wait until after Preston's birthday in order to put up our Christmas stuff. He doesn't want Preston to feel overshadowed by Christmas. I personally don't think it's a big deal. It's the day after Thanksgiving...what would that possibly do to him?

Anyway, here is a picture of the tree with the lights on. I had to take it without the flash so I could get a nice glow from the lights, so sorry it's a bit blurry.

Drew helped me decorate the tree. Notice how it's all decorated except for the last 2 feet! Yeah, I have a one year old who likes to pick at the tree! Preston has no idea what it is and is so enthralled by it! I love watching him hold the branches and stare up at it!

This is a picture of it with the lights on, but with the flash, you don't get the same effect!

We had a visitor also come and grace us with his presence yesterday. Buddy, our Elf, came yesterday. He didn't come on the first of December because we didn't have our tree up...at least that's what he told Drew in his little note!

Buddy is our communication to Santa. He sits and watches us all day long and then reports back to Santa while we sleep to let him know if we were good or bad that day. Then he comes back the next morning and finds a new spot for the day. Drew loves to talk to Buddy and tell him all the things he wants for Christmas. Sure hope Santa can fulfill this boys wishes!!

On a side note, this is what my boys enjoy doing. For some reason they both love to play in the laundry baskets. In fact, I found Preston in it all by himself, singing to himself. (I love it when he sings to himself)! He can even do Pat ta Cake all by himself, it's the cutest thing ever. But my favorite thing is that both boys must enjoy everything together! Preston thinks Drew is the absolute best!

Some good news...

2009-12-03T16:19:00.011-08:00

After a couple of counter offers, we are now under contract for "our house"!! I am so excited! Our broker is doing all he can to get us in by Christmas, but I'm thinking it might happen more along the lines of New Years. Still, I am grateful to be this far on the house! Here is a little preview of what the house looks like...

FRONT:

ENTRY:

LIVING ROOM:

KITCHEN:

DINING:

PANTRY:

MASTER:

BEDROOMS (the other three are pretty much the same):

BACKYARD:

This house is about 1900 sq. feet with 4 beds/2 baths. The only other pictures I didn't put up were the other bathroom and the other two rooms. But the best part is that it has a backyard for the boys! The backyard is not finished at the moment, but it won't take much to get it ready for them to play! I can't wait!!

Birthday Party

2009-12-02T20:11:00.007-08:00

Preston's birthday was small but fun. He had no idea what was going on, but that's what made it so great!

Doug came home for lunch and that's when we did presents. Preston had no idea what he was doing! He soon figured out that he was supposed to tear the paper off and then wouldn't stop! But after a while, Drew had to step in and finish the job! What are brothers for right?!

He got lots of things! He got two cars that are a little squishy and make noise! He loved those...played with them for a long time. He got a ball thing that blows air and shoots the balls out. He also got wooden rings that you put onto the stick.

The best part of the whole day was Preston and his cake! When we lit the candle he just stared at it! Then he wanted to touch the flame...so bad! We had Drew blow out the candle because Preston wasn't going to. After that he just stared at the cake! Doug had to finally put Preston's hands in the cake and put his fingers in his mouth! Once he tasted it, that was the end! He was loving the cake!

Can't wait for the next year to come...wonder what it will hold for us!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY LITTLE MAN!!

Birthday Boy

2009-12-02T09:37:00.006-08:00

Today my baby is 1! I can't believe how time flies! It seems like just yesterday we were walking into the OR getting ready to have him.

This year with Preston has been so much fun! He brings so much joy and happiness into our lives! His brother will tell you the same thing! Drew and Preston get along so well...something I was fearing. I wasn't sure if the 3 year gap between them would be a problem, but thankfully they are great friends!

Preston was born at 11:33, (that's what Doug says...I wasn't really paying attention to the time), and weighed in at 10 lbs. 11 oz, and was 21.5 inches long! Yes, he was a monster of a baby!

Preston loves to eat! That is probably one of his favorite things to do! And not just eat from his bottle, he loves to eat regular food! In fact, the other day we went to McDonald's and I had to buy two kids meals. Drew ate 2 chicken nuggets from his, and Preston ate all four plus some fries! Seriously, this kid knows how to put it down!

We are so happy to have Preston in our lives! He makes us all very happy!

Crazy/Busy

2009-11-22T01:59:00.005-08:00

I have to say that things have been busy around here. I drove to Sandy, UT on Tuesday for my sister's baby shower. Stayed through Wednesday and drove back on Thursday. So it was a short trip for me....but not for my kiddos!

Drew and Preston were lucky enough to stay at Grandpa Todd's and Grandma Stacey's house. Doug and I will be up there for Thanksgiving so the kids get some great one on one time with their grandparents. I'm sure they are having such a blast.

While the kids are gone, Doug and I have been working, I've been trying to get things together for Primary, and house hunting. We definitely haven't had much time to just spend together. In fact, I'm running on three and a half hours of sleep right now. Not such a good idea!

I haven't really had much time to spend in an empty home without my boys. But I'm sure missing this...

These two boys just love each other! Preston loves to climb up on Drew's bed and lay down, and when Drew comes to lay by him, he goes crazy for it! Preston loves to be right where Drew is! And Drew always likes to know where Preston is. I love it!

Preston does not like to be fed. He wants to do it all himself, what else do I do but let him! This is what you get when you give an 11 month old refried beans and a 4 year old red punch:

Preston was such a mess, but he was so proud that he did it all himself! And Drew thought his mustache was so cool. Me, I don't like a red mustache after three days! Seriously, it wouldn't come off his face!

Well, that's what we've been up to lately. Not a whole lot, but for some reason, still busy.

Halloween fun

2009-11-02T01:10:00.006-08:00

Halloween was fun for the boys...Drew especially! He was so excited when he found his costume he had to wear it almost every day before Halloween! Drew was Optimus Prime...go figure! Since I wasn't able to spend Halloween with the boys, I thought I'd blog about it for all of you who didn't get to see them either! Without further ado, I present to you:

OPTIMUS PRIME

and

MONKEY MAN!

Preston is enjoying his first sucker! Luckily he doesn't bite them, he actually sucks on them. He does eat the paper stick however!

Doug did not enjoy having to take the boys around the Trunk or Treat all by himself. I think his exact words were, "Not fun being a single parent at these types of things."

Drew and Preston love to play together, and every time I take a picture, Drew has to make sure they are in it together!

Preston is officially a walker, he almost refuses to crawl now! I'm pretty happy and sad at the same time. Sad that my baby isn't a baby anymore, but SOOO glad I don't have to carry him around anymore! I wonder if he'll thin down like Drew did?!!

Primary Program and more

2009-10-29T01:50:00.007-07:00

Sunday was our ward's primary program, and I am so glad that it's over. I was called as the primary chorister a month or so ago. Can you say stressful?! I had no idea what the kids knew or what they needed work on. So, as you can see, I'm so glad it's over!

Drew did such a great job on his part. He was one of a handful of kids that had their part memorized! He was so proud of himself for getting it right. I just wish he could have sat still. Drew was the kid that everyone looks for. He was up there giving the thumbs up and doing the horns with his first finger and pinkie! I mean, come on! He wouldn't leave the kids next to him alone, so finally his teacher had to separate him and the other boy...oh but Drew couldn't resist bugging the girl next to him! Oh man, people will be searching for him next year!

Drew wore his suit to church not just for the program, but he was also giving his first talk in Primary! It was on families and I'm sure everyone would have known that if they could hear him. He was so quiet and I had to keep telling him to talk louder! But he did a great job and can't wait to participate again!

We've decided to let Preston feed himself now. He does good with the solid foods, but the baby food we've been trying to feed him. The problem with us trying to feed him is that he doesn't want to have anything to do with that. He wants to do it! So, we are letting him. And what do you get when you let an almost 11 month old feed himself baby food? This:

He immediately dropped the spoon and went right for the bowl! He apparently was starving, heaven knows we never feed him! I mean, he only weighs 3 lbs. less than his older brother! Yep, you heard me right. Drew is 34.2 lbs, and Preston is a whopping 31 lbs. He is a monster! Man, I can't wait for that kid to walk. I can't carry him anymore!

Well, that's it from us for today. Hope things are going great your way!

new things

2009-10-27T19:11:00.006-07:00

Preston has decided that his daily routine is a bit boring I guess, because this is what I have been finding him doing...

And this, climbing all over everything...EVERYTHING!! This box he's sitting on has all of our movies in it! He likes to pull them all out just as you put them all back in!

And the biggest thing yet...

He stands up all on his own, but he wouldn't do it for us in the video, so we had to help him out a little!

Drew is being as silly as ever. He has been enjoying the rocks that are in the front of the condo and filling his dump truck with them.

He thinks it's funny to make some sort of silly face any time I take his picture!

That's all right now with us, other than the fact that it is getting colder here...at least it didn't snow! (Sorry dad)!

date nights

2009-10-25T13:12:00.009-07:00

Doug and I have had the opportunity to go out on a date the last two Saturdays. I have to say that out of the two dates, our first was the best!

Last Saturday, we headed down to Las Vegas to spend some time with my Uncle and Aunt who live in Henderson. Their son, Logan, plays on a flag football team, so we got to go and watch him play. I can't wait until Drew is old enough to play, it was so fun watching Logan. After that we got to go to Logan's Pinewood Derby. I haven't been to one of those in years so it was fun to watch. Drew had a blast there watching all the cars go down the track.

That night Doug and I were able to attend the University of Utah/ULNV football game in Las Vegas. What a blast that was! We sat on the Utah side, but had UNLV fans around us. UNLV hasn't been that great this year and their fans know it! They were the first to put points on the board by a field goal, and as soon as they did that the fans were ready to go home since it was the first time UNLV has been ahead!

The final score was 35-15 Utah! UNLV fans started leaving at the beginning of the fourth quarter, but Utah fans stayed until the end! We had such a great time! Thank you to Doug and Kenalee for watching the boys for us! You are the best!

Last night was our first time ever paying a babysitter. One of the young women in our ward watched the boys for us while Doug and I went to a Cancer Awareness Banquet at the Casa Blanca. Doug's boss bought tickets for the therapists and their wives to attend this event. This event is not part of the American Cancer Society, it's put together by cancer survivors and family members of people who have passed from cancer from the Mesquite area. All of the money raised goes right to cancer research and to cancer patients from the Mesquite and Overton/Logandale area. It was such a neat event. They had a raffle and a silent auction. They also had Celine Dion come and play! What an awesome treat! OK-so Celine Dion didn't really come, but a Celine Dion impersonator came! She really did look like her...but sounding like her...almost!

We had a really great time, and the boys just loved the sitter we got!

Happy Birthday Drew

2009-10-07T22:37:00.008-07:00

Monday was Drew's 4th birthday! Four years old...it amazes me! Four years ago, we had this amazing little boy! He was 8lbs 6 oz., 21" long. Now he is 4 years old, 33lbs, and 38" tall (that's just a guess)! He is growing so fast!

Drew was able to have a nice birthday with both sets of grandparents. Both mine and Doug's parents came down this last weekend to spend some time with Drew....and of course Preston!

For Drew's birthday, Doug and I wanted to get Drew a bike. As we looked for one, we realized we weren't going to find a plain bike, so Drew ended up with a blue Transformer bike. He got so excited when he saw it! He loved it! That is until he fell off of it, now he's kind of scared to ride it. I sure hope he turns around!

Drew kind of had a Transformer themed birthday. He got a Transformer bike, and a Transformer cake, not to mention he got 3 different Transformers as gifts!

For something fun, we went to this little place in St. George called Fiesta Fun. It is a fun center with different attractions and an arcade. Drew wanted to miniature golf first, so that's what we did. He is a little golfer! He got a hole in one on one hole! But once his ball was in the hole, he moved right on to the next, even though the rest of us were still on that same hole!

After golfing Drew just had to ride the Go Karts! He wasn't tall enough to drive, so he got to ride with Doug. Grandpa Giles and Grandpa Todd also rode the Go Karts so that they could all race! Grandpa Todd started in the very last spot, but came back to win!

Then it was off to the Bumper Boats where Drew rode with me and tried to bump Doug and get him wet! Drew wanted to drive, so as you see in the picture, he is sitting on my lap...not so sure it was that safe, but oh well!

Drew absolutely loves pizza, so for dinner we headed over to the Brick Oven for some yummy pizza. Unfortunately the service was awful, so he didn't get sung to, pizza was late...over an hour late, and part of the order was wrong. But after waiting so long to get food, we weren't sending the wrong stuff back. I have to say that I absolutely LOVE the Brick Oven, but this experience was just bad...to say the least.

I can't wait for this next year with Drew. It's going to be a blast! We love you buddy! Thanks for being with us these past four years!

Thanks to all

2009-09-19T23:08:00.003-07:00

Thank you to everyone who answered my plea for help on getting pictures from my camera phone. I did what you said and got me a micro SD card for my phone. It came with a USB attachment so that I could upload my pictures that I had on my phone.

Now I can show you all pictures of Preston sitting in the wagon at lagoon! He loved being in the wagon, and I loved it because when he fell asleep we could lay him in it!

Preston was such a good kid at Lagoon. I don't think he cried once, even when he got tired! There was just too much for him to see. As you can see by the smile on his face, he was having a great time! Plus he was getting spoiled with attention!

Preston asleep in the wagon! He always love to be covered up! Thanks again mom and dad for getting the wagon. I absolutely love it and can't wait to use it at my house!

It's Saturday already?!!

2009-09-19T00:13:00.013-07:00

Wow, where has the time gone? Seriously, I feel like the time is just passing right on by.

Doug and the boys came home from Idaho the evening of Labor Day. They brought back with them a TV...and not just any TV, this thing is huge! It is a 50" Panasonic flat screen TV. You can sit at the back of the living room (dining room) and see it perfectly! We don't have a stand for it yet, so the only place for it is on our dining room table. Yes, that's what I said! And the table is just barely big enough!

That night we had some family come over and had dinner with them. It was so nice to see them. Thanks Doug and Kenalee, we really need to make it to your house now! I can say this, I'm so glad that they were at my house when Doug came home. I didn't have to help carry that TV up the stairs! (Again, thanks Doug B.)

This last weekend the boys and I were in Salt Lake. And I got to pick up my toy!! Doug got me a laptop! It's an Acer...really nice! It's a 16" with the 10 key. I am so excited to have it! THANK YOU BABE!! YOU ARE THE BEST!

(Sorry about the picture, I took this at work)

It was my dad's company Lagoon day, so of course I had to take Drew! He had such a blast riding the rides and playing the company games! It's so hard not enjoy being there!

This year Drew was big enough to go on some of the "big people" rides! His very favorite was the Scrambler! He loved the fact that he kept sliding into the person he was riding with!

Preston was such a good boy as well! My parents have this wagon and Preston had a great time riding in it. When he fell asleep, we just laid him in it and covered him up. He took a two hour nap almost in it! So wish I had a picture of him on my camera, but I only have one on my phone and can't figure out how to get it to the computer. (Suggestions anyone?)

I just have to say thank you to my Grandpa and Grandma Quinn for watching Preston for a while, and to Jeff and Sue for taking the boys for part of the time so I could enjoy some rides myself! You all are the best!

I also want to say thank you to my Grandma and Grandpa Bleazard for letting us stay at their house. It was so nice to be there.

Although trips are great, it's always nice to be home...and in your own bed, oh how I missed my bed...and pillow!

Alone

2009-09-04T12:23:00.003-07:00

All by myself....don't want to be....all by myself anymore!! Anyone know that Celine Dion song? Well, that song describes me right now..alone all by myself! Doug and the boys have gone to Idaho for the weekend, while I stay home and work. I guess it's my turn to stay home. I've left Doug home by himself twice. But it sure is quiet here, (although, a full nights sleep was so nice)!

They left last night, and yes I know it hasn't even been 24 hours, but I sure do miss them. But I wish I was up there with them instead of them here with me. Going to my In-laws house is like going on vacation. They live up in the mountains, and so they are away from everything. So nice to go and relax.

Doug has been wanting a big TV for a long time now. So I wasn't really surprised when he called me today and told me that he went and bought his TV. It's a Panasonic something or other, but it's 50". So I guess we'll be hosting the football games at my place this year!

Well, sorry for the lack of pictures, but there is no one here to take pictures of. Hope you all are well.

Burgers anyone?

2009-09-02T10:49:00.005-07:00

Just wanted all my Utah friends to know about a new place that has opened in Salt Lake. It's called Scaddy's. We have some friends in Iowa and it's his parents that have opened this breakfast and burger joint. They say the Wayneburger is the one to try! Go ahead...see for yourself!

Mr. Mom

2009-08-26T09:52:00.005-07:00

I started my job this last weekend, which meant Doug was Mr. Mom! Doug is used to watching the kids the day after I work, but in Iowa, I never worked multiple days in a row. It was usually one day here, and then another day there. He never had to worry about having the kids to himself two days in a row. That is not the case now! I work Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, which means that Doug has to watch the boys, all day Saturday, and all day Sunday so that I get to sleep. Mondays I just stay awake after work and nap with the boys in the afternoon. I have to say that Doug did great this weekend...he'll tell you just how exhausted he was!

Saturday we did our first trip to Costco out here. We have to travel to St. George in order to go, which means that we needed to buy a cooler so that our frozen food would make it home. We figured we would just buy one at Costco while we were there, but to our luck, they didn't have any. So over to Wal-mart Doug and Drew went...no coolers. Target...none, Lowe's...none. Home Depot...5 gallon cooler (not big enough)! So Doug decided he was just going to risk it and travel home with the boys and the food. Luckily everything made it home without thawing out. Monday morning on my way home from work I stopped at the Wal-mart by us and to my surprise, they had four 70 gallon coolers! So of course I bought one!

Sometime this weekend Drew ended up with spots on his belly. Doug noticed them while he was taking care of the boys, but I didn't see it until Monday night. I at first thought they were chicken pox, but they are only on his belly and they don't itch. Looking at them more, they look kind of like little zits on his belly. It's the weirdest looking thing. I haven't taken him in for them because 1) insurance hasn't started yet, 2) they don't bother him, and 3) they aren't getting worse. I just wish I knew what they were.

Nothing really exciting here, but we did cut Preston's hair...he's bald! His hair was getting so long, and we couldn't remember what size we used the last time we cut it. So I decided that a 3 was probably what we did. Um, nope! Apparently we used a 7 or 8! Yeah, Preston is pretty bald! Sure hope it grows back, I miss his spiky hair!

Simple Pleasures

2009-08-20T13:00:00.004-07:00

It never ceases to amaze me how much fun a box can be! It was a house for Drew, and a bed for Preston. Drew would climb inside it and Preston would climb on top of it (while Drew was in it)! Why do I even buy toys when a box will do? Simple pleasures are wonderful!

Drew has found a new way to entertain himself....the ottoman swing! He has been turning the ottoman over and rocking back and forth in it! What a weirdo! But it makes me laugh!

One of our favorite things to do is to go over to the pool after dinner. It gives the boys time to wear themselves out right before bed, and it gives Doug and I time to soak in the hot tub. We did this last night, and it really wore Preston out!

He never falls asleep on the floor....ever! But he was so worn out from the pool that he couldn't even finish his bottle! Love it! Oh! Preston just got his 7th tooth and and eighth is coming in! He's got a full tooth smile!

St. George

2009-08-17T09:47:00.004-07:00

Every year, my dad's side of the family gets together for a family reunion. But it's just my dad's parents, his siblings and their kids. This year we all spent time in St. George, UT. It was so much fun! We went swimming and some of us went hiking. We had dinner and just spent time with each other. It was so nice.

There is this place you can go and overlook the valley of St. George. It's so pretty. My camera was being retarded so the pictures didn't turn out so great, but the view was incredible!

After everyone had gone home, my parents decided to stay an extra day. So we went bowling and to dinner. Let me tell you, I bowled crappy! It had been so long since I picked up a bowling ball and it showed. I don't think I broke a hundred all day. The best part of bowling was watching Drew try to throw the ball down the lane. The computer would show how fast your ball went down the lane. Doug's was an average of 20 mph...Drew's was an average of 3 mph! It was so funny!

St. George has a little park over by the old Tabernacle that has a touch pad fountain and a little stream for kids (and adults) to play in! Drew had an absolute blast and Preston didn't quite know what to think of the fountains! And it felt so good since it was so hot that day! The river has little water falls that Drew liked to sit under, and big rocks you can jump from one to the other. It's a good place to go and cool off!

One of the days we went over to the mall. Drew had to try on some shoes and put the little nylons on. Well, he liked them so much, he wore them until they literally fell off his feet! But he wore them with his sandals. We were laughing so hard at his awesome socks!

When my parents left, they took both my boys home with them, (it was first time away from Preston). They took them home because I had three days of orientation for my new job. Yes, I got a job! It's in St. George, which is only a half hour drive, and it's at the new Dixie Regional Hospital. It's such a gorgeous hospital and I'm so excited to be working there! They gave me the days and hours that I was looking for without hesitation and I'm thrilled to be there!

After my orientation on Wednesday, I drove up to Sandy to get my boys! It was a nice drive to do by myself. I thought I'd be bored, but actually, it was great! I was able to listen to my own music and not Backyardigans! I could stop wherever and whenever I wanted! The drive back with the boys was good too. It took about an hour longer, but that's because of potty breaks and food breaks! Thanks Mom and Dad for watching them, and you too Grandma and Grandpa! Doug and I really appreciated it. You guys are the best! See you in a few weeks!

internet

2009-08-06T11:43:00.003-07:00

We just got the Internet today...can I say a huge YAY!! Now I can start posting again with pictures without having to go to the library!

We are heading to St. George today to see family that is in town! So expect a post sometime next week.

Preston's new discoveries

2009-07-28T10:28:00.004-07:00

Not having the Internet really stinks. I hate that I can't blog all of the time. There have been big things going on here and I haven't been able to share them. And not only that, is that I can't post pictures or videos right now. (Ugh)!

Preston said his first word last Thursday! He said "Dada," and he says it all the time! It's so cute! The way he rolls his tongue when he says it is so funny! As soon as I can post a video of him saying it I will!

Preston also has been trying to walk, so yesterday we went and got him one of those push toys. He's not quite sure how to use it, but when he can get it going he's on the move! I wonder if he'll thin down! He is so fat right now! He's not growing taller, he's just getting wider!

This last weekend we were fortunate enough to go to Utah and see some friends of ours have their little boy sealed to them! I can't tell what an experience that was for me. Thank you so much Lindstroms for inviting us to your special event. It was awesome!

That's about all that's going on here right now. Sorry for no pictures, but as soon as I can, you'll have lots to look at!

fun pictures

2009-07-18T11:11:00.002-07:00

Just some fun pictures of the boys enjoying their time at the pool! By the way, yesterday it got to 125 degrees here. Yeah, HOT!

Drew, testing out his new goggles. And, we were able to get him to wear his water wings instead of his life jacket! (This is a big deal)! Now he only wants to wear the water wings because now he can stick his head under the water better!

Drew's new goggles! He loves them!

Preston's first hair cut. He did a super job! But he did want to look at the clippers pretty much the entire time!
After the hair cut!
Loves to pull himself up on things.

His favorite room in the house...the laundry room. I have no idea why either. But whenever the door is open, there he goes!

Update #2

2009-07-14T09:56:00.002-07:00

Well, Doug started his job last week and is loving it, and his boss loves having him there. Doug is the only one in the office that speaks Spanish and since they have a ton of Spanish speaking patients, he gets a lot of work!

He's been spending his time between the two offices, plus doing home health. They want him to get his Arizona license so that he can go see patients in Arizona. (Arizona is right next door...seriously). They have quite a few patients that live in the Mesquite part of Arizona.

The boys and I spend practically every day at the pool. In fact, last Saturday, we were able to go and spend some swimming time with some family in St. George. Drew had such a great time with his buddies and talks about them constantly! (Thanks Cavaness' for having us over)!

Everything here is so close. It takes Doug literally two minutes to get to work. He plans to ride his bike there on days that aren't so hot! Wal-Mart is also a two minute drive away and it's open 24 hours. Which helped us a ton when we first got here. We had to buy a couple of fans for the bedrooms!

Anyway, that's the update so far. I have a really cute video of Drew tickling Preston and I'll put it on here as soon as I can get it to load.

OH!! I can't believe I haven't posted about this yet. Preston is crawling and has been for a while now. He's pulling himself up onto things now...I fear he's going to be a walker soon. (Lord help us!) And he now has 6 teeth. It makes his smile the funniest looking smile ever! So that's that.

Finally

2009-07-05T15:56:00.003-07:00

OK, so I know it's been forever since I posted last. Reason being...we have no Internet. So I'll post whenever I can, which means, whenever I can get myself to the library.

We are now in Mesquite, NV...yay!! Doug is now a licensed Physical Therapist and starts his job tomorrow! It's a day we have been anxiously waiting for. We are renting a condo from our realtor and trying to get ourselves settled. We know we will only be here in the condo for a couple of months so we don't want to unpack everything. So basically, we have all our kitchen stuff and clothes unpacked.

We just spent the fourth of July weekend in Bryce Canyon for a family reunion on Doug's side. What a beautiful place! Drew was able to hike with Doug into the basin, while Preston and I hiked the rim. We had a great time and can't wait to go again.

I sure hope it won't be forever until I post again. We are here in Nevada and are happy to get our lives back in order...for a little while at least! A HUGE thank you to all who helped us get here, and who so graciously watched Drew for us while Doug and I were moving. We love you and can't wait to see you again!

update

2009-06-18T09:47:00.002-07:00

We made it to Utah safe and sound and are enjoying being back with Drew! You never know how much you'll miss them until you don't have them around.

Good news, after the HUGE hassle Doug has had to go through for boards, he was finally able to schedule his exam. The only thing that sucks is that he doesn't get to take them until the 28th. So that means we are in Utah until then. I'm kind of ready to be on our way. It sucks being in limbo. But I have enjoyed seeing my family. It's been way too long!

The time has come

2009-06-13T21:13:00.005-07:00

I can't believe the day is here. After a busy/frustrating day of loading the moving truck, (which Doug and I had to do all by ourselves since nobody from our ward showed up to help), We are leaving Iowa...forever. Ok, we might come back and visit! We are headed to Utah to pick up Drew and then heading on to begin our adventure in Nevada! It's a little scary, but we are ready. I sat down and thought of all the things I will miss of the place we have called home for the past 3 years, and I came up with quite a bit. I will miss the Farmer's Markets. I LOVE the Farmer's Markets. They are so big and exciting! It makes me want to have a garden so bad. I will also miss the people here. Iowa has some of the nicest people you will ever meet. They accept you instantly.

I do have to say that I will miss these two girls and their little boys like crazy. Good thing they are from the west and maybe they'll come and visit someday.

All three of these boys are within 2 weeks of each other. They are so adorable. I'm sad that we didn't have them a year ago so they could have a chance to play. I love you girls!

So, farewell Iowa. Our time here will always be remembered.

2009-06-11T08:22:00.003-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posting. We've been trying to pack everything up. My house looks like this:

Just a little update on Drew. He's having a blast with his grandparents and with my cousins, Tanner and Brenner. (They are 5 and 4). He's being spoiled by going to movies and flying with my brother-in-law Jason on his airplane. Apparently Drew wants to be a pilot when he grows up!

A huge thank you to all who are looking after him while we aren't there. Can't wait to see him. Both Doug and I miss him like crazy! Love you Drew!! See you soon!

So, due to moving and not knowing what's happening at the moment, I'll post when I get a chance. Might not be for a while. But check back, who knows, maybe I'll post when I get to Utah.

All done mom

2009-05-28T19:08:00.008-07:00

Here is a little video for the family that's away from us. Preston has been eating lots of things, in this video he's eating squash. And he has figured out the perfect way to tell me when he's done eating! Enjoy!

On another note, here are some pictures of what we did on Memorial day. We headed out to Winterset, IA to enjoy the bridges there. You know the movie, The Bridges of Madison County? Well, that's where the bridges are at. It was pretty neat to see.

There is this cute park there as well. We took a picnic lunch and enjoyed each other's company. Doug and Dennie played Frisbee (their Frisbee is a lid to a bowl)! And Becky and I sat on a blanket with Preston watching the guys play.

After that we headed over to see this beautiful stone bridge. It reminds me of something you'd see in the movies.

About a mile up the road there is this tower where you can observe all the beautiful scenery around you. It was amazing! (Doug just informed me that the name of the tower is Clark Tower).

Winterset is also the place where John Wayne was born. His house has been turned into a museum. But since it was Memorial Day, it was closed. I thought I'd take a picture of it for my grandfather. He is a big John Wayne fan!

And last, but not least, the Winterset Cemetery. It was incredible. The line up casket size flags along the road and underneath the flags is a name of someone who served in one of the wars with the dates they served. There were somewhere around 527 flags! All with names under them. Someone we talked to said that they do a huge memorial service in the morning. They say that it is quite a site to see. Would have been neat to have been there.

It gives me great pleasure...

2009-05-26T17:22:00.006-07:00

to introduce you to Dr. Doug Giles! Doug graduated on Saturday and received his Doctoral Degree in Physical Therapy! I am so proud of him. He has worked so hard to accomplish such a huge achievement. I love you Doug! I can't wait to see what lies ahead for you and our family! Next thing....boards! Just pray that he'll pass!

A HUGE thank you to all who came to share in this awesome day! We love you all!

Yesterday was not only Memorial day, but it's the day that I put my 3 1/2 year old on an airplane headed for Utah for the next 3 weeks. He was with his grandpa of course, but still. It's only been a day and I miss him.

I'm back to having one child, and it's a child that doesn't talk, (which is nice sometimes). What am I going to do without my little boy? My boy who is constantly talking to me, making me laugh. My boy who asks for a treat non-stop. My boy who loves to watch the Backyardigans and play with his cars. What will I do without him? My answer for you is pack and school. I guess I will have to endure his absence with packing up my house and studying my school work. But I doubt it will fill that void. All I can say is, good thing there is the web cam. Without that I wouldn't survive! I just have to see him. So I guess I'll be calling on it here soon.

family and friends

2009-05-13T20:04:00.007-07:00

So, what do you do when you find a package of smiley face stickers? Why you put them on your little brothers face! That's exactly what Drew did! He decided that Preston looked "So cute mom" with the stickers on his face!

Monday we said our goodbyes to our dear friends. They moved to California Monday night. It was sad to say goodbye, but we know we'll be seeing them soon. They will only be a few hours away from us...plus they are by the beach! We love you guys!

Is this not the cutest kid ever?! This is our friends little boy. I could just eat him up! He and Preston are only two weeks apart. They are our chocolate and vanilla babies! I just love his glasses, and his mom says that he keeps them on!

Tonight we played outside. It was a bit windy, but we still had a good time. We've been dog sitting Carter for Doug's brother. We put him on the leash outside and let him run around with Drew.

Drew decided to play on his bike, but he fell off and "can't get up mom! Help me!"

Oh, my boys are getting big. Where has the time gone?!

Last day/ Park

2009-05-07T10:03:00.008-07:00

Today is Doug's last day of his rotation. Which means he's done! He never has to go on another rotation again! The only things left for him now are graduation and boards! It's amazing that it's finally over. It's weird, you never think that we'd be here, but look at us, we are! Good luck Doug on your last day!! :)

OK, so here it is...the tooth! Doug had to pull his lip down in order to get it!

Doug and I put Preston on our bed the other night, and he ended up talking himself to sleep. This is how we found him! What a crazy kid. That to me does not look very comfortable! But whatever floats his boat!

We went on a walk the other day and stopped off at the park. Drew loves the little park over by our house. And I have to say that I'm kind of going to miss it. It's nice to open the door and walk 100 yards to the park. Oh well, we'll have to find one when we move. Drew loves to play on the slides.

Drew found some one's dump truck and just had to play with it. There's something about toys when they aren't your own.

Preston really likes to be outside as well. I'm glad for that because look at this white child! He needs a little Vitamin D!

It's a tooth!

2009-05-05T07:42:00.004-07:00

Yes, that's right, Preston got his first tooth yesterday! The thing finally broke through...I'm so glad! Even though he's a happy baby, he's much happier now that his tooth is finally here. I'm not quite sure why the Lord blesses me with early teethers, but I guess I should be glad. (Drew at this age had 4 teeth)! I was trying so hard to get a picture of it yesterday, but it wouldn't show up on camera. I'm going to try again today...outside. That way I won't need a flash! Anyway, that's our great news for now....we finally have a tooth!

Cereal please!

2009-05-01T19:43:00.007-07:00

Isn't this the cutest picture ever?! Doug and I decided that since our little guy is now 5 months old...(I know, crazy, right?!), that we are going to feed him cereal every day. Today was his first real attempt at it, (we tried last month, but he didn't quite get it). He loves it. It takes him a minute to get used to the texture and thickness, but after a couple spoonfuls he is grabbing at the spoon wanting more! I wish I could have gotten it on film, but since Doug fed him first while I wasn't around, and then I did it next while he wasn't around, there was no way to get it on film. Will try next time.

I did finally get on film Preston using his voice. It's so cute. I'm sure grandparents will enjoy this.

We did get to go outside this week...when it wasn't raining. Drew was so glad to be out on a walk. Poor kid, he gets so bored when the weather is bad.

Drew is acting like an airplane. He can't wait to go on one this month to Utah.

It was a little chilly outside, but Preston loved it. And I just love this hat on him!

Preston now rolls from his back to his front. But he cheated this time. He grabbed hold of the bouncer and heaved himself over! (Don't you just love his hair!!)

I just love his "Buddha" belly! Doug and I laugh at it all the time!

donations

2009-04-29T19:35:00.004-07:00

For those of you who read my blog have probably heard of our dear friends and their sweet little boy Beckham. This amazing boy has been through so much and is still going through more. His strength is incredible. A friend of theirs has put together a donation account in his name through Wells Fargo. Anyone who would like to donate, can. Click HERE for the details. This boy is such a wonderful boy and has parents that are rocks! If there is any way to help them, this would be one. We love you Scadlocks!

weekend recap

2009-04-27T13:28:00.006-07:00

We had a pretty good weekend...for the most part! Thursday was Doug's 28th birthday! We did exactly what he wanted to do...ordered pizza and watched the Jazz game! Seriously, it was nice and relaxing. I hope he enjoyed it because I sure did!

Friday, we took Drew to the driving range. He has a little putter and a nine iron, and Friday was a great day to use them. Even though it was windy, he still had a great time. He practiced his putting, and then he got to use his iron! I have a cute video of him that I'll post later.

Saturday we pretty much stayed home. Doug and I had talks to write for church, so we spent most of the day home. Thanks heavens it's Monday, because that means our talks are done with! Drew did get to wear his new suit, and what a handsome boy he was! Everyone loved his suit, and apparently he knew he looked good, because when people would tell him how awesome he looked, he just said, "I know!" What a goon!

I just thought I'd end this post with some cute pictures of the boys! We got out the Jumperoo this weekend and put Preston in it. He seems to like it.

When Preston gets tired, he likes to have eat his bottle on the couch with it propped up. I'm not sure why. Every time I try to hold him and feed him (only when he's tired), he won't eat. But if I prop him up, he'll eat and then fall asleep. Such a strange little boy.

no more please

2009-04-20T19:32:00.004-07:00

This has been one weekend I don't want for a long time...better yet, EVER again. Drew was sick wednesday, and Preston has had something since Saturday. (Just the runs and abnormal spitting up)! Not to mention I ran Drew over today with a cart at Wal-mart. You might be thinking, "that's not too bad," but believe me...it was.

Drew likes to stand on the front of the cart. Well, I thought he was on and started to go...BIG mistake. He hit the floor and smacked his head. The screaming started. Everyone around was in shock. They gave me horrible looks liked I'd done it on purpose. I scooped him up and carried him out to the car. Once we got there he tells me, "Mom, I'm OK. I still hurt, but I'm OK." My heart sank. I couldn't believe I had just done that. Sorry baby.

Doug got to have the day off today since his patients cancelled. It was a nice surprise to come home from Wal-mart and see his car in his spot. I just had to smile.

Since Doug was home, we decided to head to Valley West Mall to find Drew a new suit. He received some money for Easter for a new suit so we thought we'd go look. We found the cutest suit...will post pictures when he wears it. But after that, Drew threw the BIGGEST fit. He was screaming and crying because he wanted to eat at the food court and we told him no.

Seriously, what more can I do other than lock myself in my room? Can I please just stay there for a while and not come out? I need a break. I guess I'll get one next month.

Whatever mom

2009-04-07T08:12:00.003-07:00

I just love it when I hear myself come out of Drew's mouth. It never ceases to amaze me what he says, (at least they aren't bad words)! I'm usually telling Drew, "Does that sound like a plan," in order to get him to do certain things. Here is a recent conversation I've had with Drew:

Drew: I want a snack.
Mom: We need to have lunch before we have a snack.
Drew: OK, how about after we have a snack, we eat lunch. Does that sound like a good plan?
Mom: No, we need to have lunch first.
(After much begging)
Drew: Whatever mom.

Seriously. It sounds much more funny when he says it.

Preston took a nap on my bed in his boppy pillow the other day. Drew wanted to sit by him for some reason, so I let him. When I heard Preston wake up I went to go get him. Well, that didn't fly for Drew.

Mom: Hi boys. Lets go downstairs.
Drew: Mom, leave Preston here by me.
Mom: How about we all go downstairs.
Drew: MOM, leave Preston here. I want to sit by him. He is my best friend.
Mom: What if he cries?
Drew: I'll take care of him, he's my best friend.

I'm glad that they are best friends now!

Wow...4 months old

2009-04-03T12:46:00.002-07:00

My little man is four months old....4 MONTHS OLD!!! I mean, where has time gone? He's getting so big...of course he's always been big! We went to the doctor yesterday for his four month check up and here are his stats:

Weight: 16lbs. 12 oz.
Height: 26 1/2 inches
Head: 16 inches

It's just amazing how fast they grow. I just love them! I honestly can't wait until he can sit up. He's already rolling over! :)

my boys

2009-04-01T20:43:00.004-07:00

I just LOVE my boys! They are the light of my life! Drew is getting more involved with Preston and I love it! A couple nights ago I was rocking Preston to sleep when Drew wanted to hold him, of course Preston woke up! And then tonight, Drew wanted Preston to sit with him while we watched Transformers. We were watching it in Drew's room with the light off (it's better that way)! Drew was sitting in his chair and held Preston for quite some time!

Silly boys!

Random things

2009-03-25T13:52:00.007-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posting. I haven't been in the blogging mood lately. Maybe it's due to the stress of moving, maybe it's due to the fact that our home computer sucks. It is so slow that trying to edit my pictures takes forever. I'm going to try and be better, I have a lot to post. It's not anything really interesting for some, but it is for me.

Saturday is our date night. I've mentioned before that we are in a date group (highly recommend everyone join a date group), where we tend all the kids one weekend, then we get 3 off. Well this weekend we had both boys since they both have had a cold. It was such a nice night that we played outside with Drew until it was dark!

Once we put the kids to bed, Doug and I watched Twilight! Yes, I bought the movie! Couldn't help myself one bit. Doug wanted to see it and since he didn't' get to go in the theater, he was more than happy to watch it with me! Although I felt he should have watched it by himself because I kept feeling like I had to explain some things to him. (He assured me he got the gist of it)!

Question for anyone who saw it in theaters; When Edward was taking Bella home after playing baseball, was Emmett and Alice in the car as well?

Preston has been talking non-stop! It's so fun to hear him use his voice...except when it's 4:00 in the morning! He's starting to respond to Drew. Whenever Drew would talk to him, he would give his this look of, what are you saying to me?! But yesterday, Drew would talk to him and squeeze Preston's cheeks and Preston would laugh, which would make Drew laugh! I can't wait until they can interact more together. This picture is of how Preston fell asleep after being worn out from Drew.

On Monday, Drew went to the dentist. They had him sit in the chair and put some sunglasses on so the light wouldn't get in his eyes! He looked so cute! Drew was an amazing patient...not like his mom. I'm a nervous wreck at the dentist, they have to give me laughing gas every time or else my feet will be in my chest.

They cleaned Drew's teeth and gave them a good floss. I was so proud of him!

Drew was able to go to pre-school yesterday. He hasn't been in forever it seems. Last week was spring break so they didn't have school. Boy did he need to go. As soon as the doors opened for class, he ran in and gave Ms. Cathy a hug! (He missed her)!

Hope you have a great day, hopefully I'll have more to post tomorrow!

Nevada trip

2009-03-11T19:32:00.006-07:00

Boy do I wish I was back in Nevada. The weather here is SO COLD, (just a couple more months Court)! We had such a great time while we were in Nevada. We stayed two nights with my aunt and uncle who live in Henderson and were able to enjoy their kids. They have three and their littlest one is about a year younger than Drew and we just laughed at him the entire time! What a character that boy is! Another uncle of mine was also there. I hadn't seen him in years! He lives in Texas.

Doug and I were able to spend an afternoon in St. George so I could see a dear friend of mine! Miss you Mori! We spent the rest of the time in Mesquite. His boss lives there and that is where the main clinic is. We were able to go to dinner with him one night and meet his wife, and then meet some of the other therapists in the clinic. What a great group they have there!

We spent one day looking for houses in Mesquite, and another day looking at houses in Logandale. The two houses we like are in Logandale, one of them is the back up house, and the other one we totally fell in love with, but I'm not going to tell you which one! You'll just have to make your own guesses.

The reason I'm choosing not to tell you which one we love is because I don't want to get my hopes up and things not work out with that house. It's really hard right now to get approved for anything since we aren't technically working. Even though Doug has a job, they need a pay stub...yeah. So we'll see how things work out. But if you'd really like to know which house, go ahead and ask. Maybe I'll be nice and tell you!

relaxation

2009-03-07T13:22:00.002-08:00

Well we made it back from sunny Nevada and I have to say, "I WANT TO GO BACK!!" I was in shorts and flip flops the entire time! I'll update with some pictures later.

Last year for my birthday Doug got me a spa package. Well, today I got to use it! It was so wonderful! I spent 5 hours at the spa...you can't beat that! Nice and relaxing. Thanks babe, you're the best!

It's official...

2009-02-22T20:43:00.002-08:00

we're moving to Nevada! Doug accepted the job offer and we'll be heading down there in June! Can I just tell you how excited I am?! We leave for Nevada next Sunday to talk to Doug's new boss, and to look at some houses! I'll tell you though...I'm a little nervous about moving to a small town. I'm not one that likes to have everyone up in my business, but that seems to come with living a small town. Guess I'll have to get used to it!

NEVADA....HERE WE COME!!

Favorite Things and Randomness

2009-02-20T20:13:00.005-08:00

Drew's favorite thing lately is to wash dishes! He asks me everyday if he can do the dishes. Today was no exception. "Mom, I need to wash the dishes, the dishes are sooo dirty!" So, after dinner, Drew got what he wanted, to wash the dishes...and I'm not complaining one bit!

On February 8, we blessed Preston, and what a wonderful blessing it was! Doug did an awesome job with it, it was short and sweet. We had a nice small circle of family and friends. Apparently Preston was trying to sit up the entire time Doug was giving the blessing. My dad said that Doug had to get a firm grip on the back of Preston so he wouldn't slide out of every body's hands! Doug's mom surprised us by flying out for it! We found out when she showed up to church! Thanks Becky for coming, it was so nice to have you here. And to my brother Braden, he's never been out here before so it was so nice to have him here as well. We had to take a picture of him to prove he was out here!

My dad took some great pictures of Preston in his blessing outfit, and I'll post those when I get them.

Here are some fun, random pictures of the boys! I finally got out Preston's gymini and let him play under it. He looks a little overwhelmed don't you think?

Drew thought he needed show Preston how it works!

Every time I have Preston on the floor, Drew needs to be by him! It's so cute. They already have a brotherly bond!

Drew has these sunglasses that he has to wear every time we are in the car. If not, he screams out saying, "Ouch, my eyes! Mr. Sunshine, go away!" I haven't heard that much since he got his sunglasses.

Apparently Mr. Sunshine hurts Preston's eyes too because this is what I found!

good books anyone?

2009-02-18T10:17:00.002-08:00

Today I found myself at Walmart, passing away the time while Drew was in school. I ended up in the book and magazine aisle. I just stood there looking at the books thinking, "I've read that one...and that one too." So, anyone have a good book that they recommend reading? And can they be found at the library?

Suggestions please!

bad news/good news

2009-02-12T09:58:00.004-08:00

I have two parts to this post today. The first part is a little bit of venting, the second is some great news! So here we go.

I just don't understand people. What makes a person think that they can bring around their sick kids and not think anyone will care? And not just that, it's that they let their sick kids play and suck on things the healthy ones are playing with. As a result to this, my baby is sick. He can't breathe out of his little nose and he has the saddest cough I've ever heard. And not only is my child sick, but so is my really good friend's little girl, but her child's body reacted differently to the virus than mine did. I just don't get it. If you're going to bring your sick kids around, it would be nice to know they are sick before hand. Or, you don't go anywhere. (ugh!)

Alright, now that that is off my chest, here is the exciting news! Doug was offered the job in Overton, NV! He's been in Las Vegas for the week and spent a day up in Mesquite with the employer having an interview. Not only does he want him in the office, he wants Doug to RUN it! He is giving the clinic to him to oversee! So when Doug gets home tomorrow, we will go over everything, pray about it, and if it's right, we'll be heading down there the first of March to sign the contract and look for a house! I'm so excited!

time flies

2009-02-06T12:34:00.005-08:00

I can't believe my baby is 2 months old already! Time has flown right by me.

Preston has had a pretty busy week. Monday was his 2 month check up where they weighed him, measured him, and then administered his shots. Poor guy didn't like that at all!

His stats: 13 lbs. 12 oz. 25" long! He may weigh a lot, but he is so long you can't tell he really weighs that...although his car seat is getting awfully heavy to carry!

Yesterday he had a consult with an ENT doctor to see about having his tongue clipped. The doctor didn't even have to open his mouth to know that it needed to be done. Preston's frenulum attached to almost the tip of his tongue. So, the doctor decided that while we were there he would just clip it instead of us having to come back in. And now our little man has a tongue that can actually come out of his mouth!

On another note, my family is coming in today! I can't wait to see them. This will be the first time my brother has been out here to see us! The only down side to this, my brother-in-law and my little sister couldn't come. You will be missed you two.

Missionary work

2009-01-28T10:42:00.004-08:00

I just wanted to take the time to say how happy I am of two of my cousins. These two young men are serving missions and helping the work of the Lord move forward. Elder Cavaness is in Yakima, WA, and Elder Quinn is in Lima, Peru. They have the most wonderful spirits and strongest of testimonies. I am so proud of them for the sacrifices they are making to help with God's plan. Click on their names if you'd like to take a look at their blog that their family has put together.

Colyn and Davey, we love you and miss you, but are so proud of you! Keep up the good work!

Double Stroller

2009-01-24T13:32:00.005-08:00

I've been wanting a double stroller long before Preston was born. Doug and I talked about it just before Preston came and decided that we probably didn't need one since Drew is very capable of walking. So for the past month and a half I've been using our regular stroller and had Drew stay by me...try to stay by me! But Drew is a wanderer. If he sees something of interest, there he goes. And to get his attention to "get back here" is quite a challenge. So, needless to say, I need a double stroller, and today I got one!!

Doug and I have looked at all sorts of double strollers and finally decided on this one. It's a Sit 'n Stand stroller. The baby goes in front (and it has a bar that you can put on to use the car seat), and Drew goes in back. He can either sit in the seat provided, or stand on the foot rest. This gives him the option of sitting when he needs to, or when I need him to stick by my side! I can't wait to get out and use it! The plus side to this was when we got to Target the stroller was $129.99, but when the checker rang it up, it was $64.95! I couldn't believe it! Here I was going to pay full price for this stroller and...surprise!! (Stupid to think I'm so excited for a stroller)! Thanks babe for allowing me to have this stroller. You won't be sorry!

Yummy goodness!

2009-01-19T09:18:00.006-08:00

Lately I've been doing something I haven't done for a few years...making bread! I absolutely love homemade bread and the wonderful aroma it brings into the house! We received a bread maker for our wedding and I used it a ton the first couple of years. But since we moved out here, I haven't used it at all. So, thanks to this wonderful company, my mother-in-law, and the best bread mix ever, I am able to make bread again!

The only thing I do different, is I use my bread maker to make the dough, and then I bake it in a pan in the oven, (just because I like the shape). Of course today I didn't think I'd be able to make bread at all. I put all the ingredients into the bread machine, and pushed start...and pushed it again....and again. No luck. Finally, I started to beat my machine and it magically started! Looks like I need a new bread maker!

Thank you!

2009-01-16T12:57:00.003-08:00

I just want to say a HUGE thank you to everybody who gave me money for Christmas. I was able to buy these boots!!

I absolutely love them! I've never had "hooker" boots before! I had to buy them online, and they just arrived today! I can't wait to wear a pair on Sunday!! Thank you!

say cheese...or not!

2009-01-13T10:00:00.004-08:00

Preston has been smiling and using his voice a lot lately. I've been trying to capture a picture of the smiles, but every time I get out the camera, the smiling seems to stop. I need to have it out all of the time. I did, however, get a little video clip this morning of him smiling and using that cute little voice. So, here for your enjoyment, is my little guy talking! (I didn't realize that the video is quite dark. Hope you can see him).

p.s. Today is SO cold! It's -1 right now with the wind chill at -12! And last nights wind chill factors were at -25! Seriously!

Primary

2009-01-12T10:32:00.003-08:00

I can't believe it, Drew is a Sunbeam! Yesterday was his first day in Primary, which means, no more play dough and no more snack time! I'm absolute fine with the no play dough because Drew always comes home with it on his shoes!

He had a hard time at first, but when Doug picked him up after church, he was all smiles with a big crown on his head. I hope he enjoys Primary from here on out! I can't wait until he has to give a talk or a scripture, or participate in Sharing Time somehow! My little boy is growing up!