Isaac is 3!

Isaac, on his birthday.

1 year!

2 years old!

Dear Isaac,

You are a joy. As the oldest in our young family, you have taken the brunt of all your parent's misshapes; despite this you have turned out to be wonderfully kind and so much fun. We love your silly looks and wild imagination. You are your daddy's best play mate, and my best co-chef. Isaac, you are a wonderful example to Eli. He loves to be around you even now, and we cannot wait for the day when you two can play "hard core" together all day long. We love you so very much. Happy 3rd Birthday!

Cake was crafted by my friend Brittany Jones

visit her website here!

Isaac would not leave the cakes side. 

For an hour before the guests arrived he stayed right there. 

He loved that thing!

The Idea was that it was a party for Isaac and Eli. 

Isaac's third birthday, and Eli's recovery. Eli was asleep, but that was okay!

Opening up presents. It got crazy! 

Enjoying his gifts through out the day.

Eli happy and alert after the guests left! He loves his fingers. 

Eli playing with Isaac's toys.

Eli is doing well. Got off of oxygen last week. However he does have a bit of a cough, but it is getting better. Sleeping lots more now that he does not have the oxygen on. He is a beautiful, happy 5 month old boy!

Free Photo Sessions!

This is summer has been crazy! 

But during all the stress with Eli, I have tried to find some sanity in improving my self and gaining talents. 

For the Lord hath said, "...that every man may improve upon his talent, that every man many gain other talents..." D&C 82:18. 

First Improvement: Running!

I participated in three 5k races this summer, and continue to run every-other day.

Second Improvement: Sewing!

I love to make things, and this summer I bought a Brother sewing machine and have completed many fun projects.

Third Improvement: Photography! 

It is well known that my husband is very proficient* in the art of photography. 

And I want to learn too! I have created a blog of my learning adventure. 

Please check out and tell me how I am doing. I seriously need positive reinforcement.

Click here!

Here are some shots that I took yesterday of a very willing family:

I want to do this for free, and learn the art of photography whilst* having fun! 

If you are interested, and live in Rexburg, let me know. Seriously.  

*(I have been reading Jane Austen novels, and have been watching movies based on her works. My language is a bit funny at the present time.)

PS If you are intrested in a formal family session, check out Matt's blog at mdud24.blogspot.com

Its the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

The 2009 College Football season has opened! 

Me and Matt are pumped! Though, quite a House Divided. I just love love love the wonderful team Florida State University. 

Matt, though he likes a bunch of teams, is a die hard Boise State University fan. 

ACC vs WAC, though weird, it is what it is. 

I talk smack, Matt talks smack, and WE LOVE IT! 

What is your favorite team, and how do you think they will do?

Home. At Last!

We pulled into our parking lot at 4pm Tuesday afternoon. What a relief! I love being back with my two boys. Matt and I caught up on our sleep yesterday, and this morning I went on a run. Everything is starting to get back to normal. (And college football starts tonight. Awesome!) Though we were only gone two weeks, it felt like months and months. Isaac has grown up so much. Talking more and taking on more responsibility--he love the little jobs we give him. Eli is adjusting well. He is still on oxygen, and probably will be for a while. His naps and nights are starting to get better. Everything looks as good as we can hope. He is probably going to be house bound for the next little bit as he heals, but I don't think he minds. 

Thanks to:

• Our parents. For taking care of us, and Isaac. We know we can always count on yall. 
  
• Ashley&Dave. Babysitting! For dates, Eli appointments--you guys always pull through.
• Family. For all who have prayed for us and sent us blessings, near and far. From Florida to Canada, we have felt your prayers.
• Friends. FRIENDS! Thank you so much for helping me (us) through my lows and highs. I have been very stressed since Eli was born, dreading this surgery. But all of yall have stuck with me, talked with me, and supported me through this. 
• Our Ward (church congregation). Thank you for all who participated in the ward Fast and Prayer for us and the other family. 
• Primary Children's Medical Center Team. What can I say? You guys saved our little boy for us. We will forever be in debt to you. Thanks to the doctors and surgeons, the nurses, and the volunteers. You guys are tip-top. 
• Ronald McDonald House. What a wonderful place! For taking the burden of figuring out a place to stay, what to eat, where to do laundry. Thank you, thank you.