The Bryant Family

Happy Hudson :)

2011-06-19T19:55:00.002-10:00

Cute Pic...

2011-06-09T19:02:00.003-10:00

Our Little Tattoo Wear-er

All the Boys...

2011-06-08T15:26:00.002-10:00

I was taking some 5 months pictures of Hudson and the boys wanted to join in! It turned out so cute :)

Recipe of the Week...

2011-06-04T20:04:00.008-10:00

Cuban-Style Grilled Chicken with Avocados and Mangoes

And YES... It's as good as it looks!

And YES... My kids eat it!

Ingredients:

Dressing:

1 C Olive Oil

¾ C Orange Juice

1 T Grated Orange Peel

1 T Honey

1 T Soy Sauce

Chicken:

2 t Cumin Seeds

6 Cloves Minced Garlic

1 Large Serrano Chili (stemmed and minced)

½ t Salt

¾ C Olive Oil

3 T Orange Juice

3 T Lime Juice

6 Skinless Boneless Chicken Breast Halves

2 Firm but Ripe Mangoes (cut into ½ in cubes)

2 Firm but Ripe Avocados (cut into ½ in cubes)

Directions:

Whisk all dressing ingredients together and salt and pepper to taste. Can be prepared 1 day in advance, covered and placed in refrigerator. Stir cumin seeds in medium skillet over medium-high heat until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Transfer seeds to bowl and add garlic, chili and salt. Mash with fork to form a thick paste. Heat olive oil and pour over paste. Stir and let cool for about 15 minutes. Whisk in orange and lime juice and place in 9x13 inch baking dish (or a ziplock bag). Add chicken and marinade for 1 to 3 hours in fridge. Dice mangoes and avocados into 1 inch cubes, combine and add 6 T of dressing to coat. Grill chicken on medium-high heat (about 5 minutes on each side). Cut chicken into 1/3 in strips. Place lettuce in bowl and coat with dressing. Mound on plates. Arrange one sliced chicken breast on each plate. Top with mangoes and avocados. Sprinkle with nuts. I original recipe called for cashews but I like to use sliced almonds. Enjoy!

Regarding the Kids:

I put everything on their plates in bite size pieces. They love guacamole but aren't as big of fans of plain avocado. That said, I give them lots of mango and chicken, along with 1 cube of avocado and if they want dessert, they have to eat it :) Nine times out of ten, once they try it, they love it. The same goes for almonds. Instead of giving them sliced almonds, I give them each 2 whole almonds and if they want dessert, they have to eat it :) Yesterday, Payton chewed up an almond and then spit it out on the floor. Then he was told to go get the dust buster to clean up his mess and when he came back there were 2 more almonds on his plate :) He ate them and proudly proclaimed, "I like almonds!" I have no problem bribing my children to try food that is good for them!

Hudson Grew Again...

2011-06-01T08:56:00.005-10:00

Things are Changing Quickly...

2011-06-01T08:34:00.008-10:00

Sawyer is OFFICIALLY potty trained!

Now I just need to roll out the rugs :)

Hudson is now rolling over and sleeping without a paci (most of the time)!

Our yard is finally grown in and looking great!

Payton is getting so tall, hence the new longer shirts and shorts :)

And he has quite a sense of humor, hence the goofy pose!

Jonathan is loving life, minus missing us :)

And I am still tired :) but doing great!

Hudson is Growing...

2011-04-28T16:47:00.010-10:00

We took the first pic the night Jonathan left in February. The second pic was today. Look how much he's grown!

Hudson... 3 Months Old

2011-04-27T12:24:00.016-10:00

Hudson's 3 months old now and doing all kinds of tricks. He loves to suck on his hands and fingers and even prefers them over his pacifier. Hopefully we can get rid of it all together in the next month of two. He sleeps anywhere from 4 to 7 hour stretches at night, which we're working to increase, and takes 3 to 4 naps during the day. He loves his brothers and is always entertained when they're in the room. He still LOVES to be on his belly, especially when he's sleeping. He smiles, talks and laughs constantly. He even joins in when his big brothers are carrying on in the car. Oh, joy for me :) He can hold his head up when he's laying on his belly and loves to sit in the bumbo seat for short periods of time. He has recently discovered the TV. Every time it's on he's drawn right to it. I've taken advantage a time or two when I needed a shower! Overall, he's such a joy and a very predictable baby :)

Come... Let Us Compare

2011-04-15T12:23:00.005-10:00

Wanice needs to send me some younger pictures of Jonathan because we're beginning to think Hudson looks a lot like him :)

Resurrection Buns

2011-04-15T10:34:00.003-10:00

This morning we made Resurrection Buns.

Some of you have been asking for the recipe/directions so I thought I would just put up a link.

There are many ways to do it but what we used were the following:

1 Roll Grand's Jr Bisquits

Large Marshmallows

Equal Parts Cinnamon and Sugar

Melted Butter

I rolled each bisquit out flat and told the boys that this was the tomb where they placed Jesus. Then I had the boys roll the marshmallows in butter and place one on each bisquit. Then they sprinkled each one with cinnamon sugar and I explained that in Jewish culture they prepared Jesus' body for burial with oil (butter) and spices (cinnamon sugar) and then wrapped it in white blankets, or linen cloth. Then they pinched each bisquit closed as if they were closing the tomb. Then we flipped them over and placed them on a cold baking stone and baked them on 350 for 8-10 minutes. When we took them out I cut a slit in the top and asked the boys what happened. They were very quick to exclaim, "Jesus is GONE!" And all that was left was the white blankets (melted marshmallows). They enjoyed eating them, as did I! They were very tasty :)

4 Day Old Hudson Thomas...

2011-02-02T14:50:00.004-10:00

Newborn Pictures of Baby Hudson Thomas...

4 Days Old

The blanket over the top of him was actually a wedding gift from my cousin, Mandy.

Introducing Our Newest...

2011-01-16T15:04:00.005-10:00

Putting the boys to bed before heading to the hospital...

Payton was reading a Bible story to us :)

Sawyer getting ready for bed... Payton wanted to take a pic of us. I'm pretty sure I was having a contraction.

Just minutes after he was born...

Proud Daddy

Hudson Thomas Bryant

Born on January 13th, 2011 at 4:58 PM

8 lbs - 20 inches

Our Whole Family :) :) :) :)

The boys meeting Hudson...

Hudson's First Bath

He actually really liked it :)

Back at home...

Everyone tired!

Getting ready to leave the hospital...

2nd day at home and doing great :)

Christmas 2010...

2011-01-03T08:56:00.001-10:00

Jonathan's Work Christmas Party...

2010-12-20T13:45:00.005-10:00

Santa Flying In

On the Way to See Santa

I think Payton is explaining what he wants for Christmas while Sawyer was shouting, "Candy!" Waiting for Santa

Everyone Watching Santa Flying in on a 53

Payton's Preschool Christmas Program...

2010-12-20T13:41:00.003-10:00

Payton was a shephard for his Christmas program.

We had to wake him up from his nap to take him and I'm pretty sure he was still half alseep through the whole thing. He didn't sing a single word, which is very unlike him.

Enjoying Cookies and Punch After the Program

HMH 463 Dining Out...

2010-12-12T12:28:00.002-10:00

Since most of the squadron was gone over the Marine Corps Birthday they decided to have a Dining Out this past weekend.

We had a great time at Turtle Bay!

Maternity Pics...

2010-12-11T10:55:00.004-10:00

Location: Kailua, HI

Photographer: Crystal Nix

www.snapshotsbycrystal.com

Family Pics...

2010-12-09T06:00:00.002-10:00

A Few of Our Recent Family Pics

More to Come Soon...

Location: Kailua, HI

Photographer: Crystal Nix

http://www.snapshotsbycrystal.com/

Family Life Weekend to Remember Marriage Conference...

2010-12-06T06:13:00.004-10:00

This past weekend, Jonathan and I left the boys with our sitter and we attended the Family Life Weekend to Remember Marriage Conference, here in Hawaii. It was so refreshing! The speakers were entertaining and encouraging. We had scheduled projects to do as a couple and alone, a scheduled date night and we even renewed our vows :) When the weekend was over I was more than ready to come back home to our precious babies :)

Date Night

Sunset on Date Night The Ihilani Resort and Spa (JW Marriott) where we stayed...

33 Weeks and Feeling HUGE :)

The View from Our Room

I took this picture b/c we knew the boys would love to see some sharks :)

When we got home the kids were so excited to see us. Jonathan helped Payton wrap all the pictures he had painted over the weekend and they labeled them as presents for all of Payton's friends. Don't you love the way Payton lined them all up under the tree?!

Playing with Daddy

Our Tree

This is Sawyer running around the table singing Jingle Bells :)

Gifts Wrapped and Ready...

2010-11-30T16:52:00.003-10:00

I decided to make my own tags this year and I think they turned out pretty well :)

I have a good teacher though...Thanks, Val!

Thanksgiving and Decorating for Christmas...

2010-11-29T18:09:00.005-10:00

Thanksgiving

Our New Lanai Furniture and Decorations Flag from My Mom... She bought me a few of them a long time ago but it took me FOREVER to find somewhere that sold the hangers.

Our Dining Room All Lit Up

I love having the new shelf to hang the stockings on and I love having a HUGE Christmas tree!

Jonathan did a great job helping decorate. It was his idea to replace the orange berries with from this Fall with the red ones for Christmas :)

Payton was wiped out! He fell asleep sitting up during his "rest" time in our bed.

We had a great Thanksgiving and had the joy of having Nana here with us for the week! I'm glad we have a few weeks of normal before Christmas and Baby Hudson arrives. The boys definitely need it :)

Payton's Thanksgiving Program...

2010-11-29T18:02:00.003-10:00

Payton started preschool again a few weeks ago.

Right away he had a Thanksgiving Program. Afterwards we all got to enjoy a potluck meal together.

Playing on the Playground After Eating

Preschool Playground

Payton and Sawyer's Birthday Party...

2010-11-22T12:16:00.004-10:00

Jonathan did a great job picking out their cake!

Payton wanted a George party and Sawyer wanted a Thomas party, so we had both :)

The party was at the Officer's Club Pool. It turned out to be a great day and a lot of fun for everyone! Birthday Boy #1

Birthday Boy #2

Me and Sam

We hadn't taken Sawyer swimming in a while and we found out yesterday that he has really turned into a fish!

He loves to jump in off of the side! At one point he even jumped straight into the pool and then swam to Jonathan and said, "I jumped in!"

Payton's swimming lessons have really been paying off too!

All the Party Goers :)

Nana was there too but she took the picture for us. Thank you to everyone who came! We had a great time and the boys made some great memories :)

Payton's 4th Birthday...

2010-11-11T14:21:00.004-10:00

Blowing out Candles

Enjoying Birthday Brownies and Ice Cream

Opening Presents

I wrapped them all in priority boxes and envelopes b/c that's all I had.

Playing with New Toys

Listening to Mommy's...Neck :)

Birthday Boys

He IS my little twin :)

Train Table

Jonathan and I made this for the boys but we didn't get it completely finished before Payton's birthday. We still have to add another coat of stain and sealer.

Harold the Helicopter

Taking Care of Daddy with the New Doctor Kit

He's Such a TWO Year Old

Ready to Ship...Any takers?

28 Weeks...

2010-11-04T15:54:00.003-10:00

28 Week Mommy

28 Week Baby Hudson

Trick or Treating...

2010-11-01T08:10:00.006-10:00

Trick or Treating on our Street

Our Pumpkin that Payton DID NOT Help Carve

Friends Neighbors...They had the greatest costumes and Sarah made the dalmation costume for Elena!

More Trick or Treating

Our Spider and Pumpkin

My Latest Project for the Boys

I'm still working on the matching diaper cover for Baby Hudson.

Completed Christmas Wreath...

2010-10-26T15:22:00.003-10:00

I saw these wooden stars at the craft store and wanted to figure out a project for them. I decided to use this vintage Christmas scrapbook paper and cover them with Mod Podge. They turned out great but then I didn't know what to do with them. Fortunately, I had an empty grape vine wreath I hadn't decorated yet. It turned out great. I don't love the bow but I wanted to use the same fabric and this is what I came up with, so here it is :)

Hudson's New Room...

2010-10-25T13:21:00.005-10:00

View Looking In

Refinished Shelf Finally Hung

A Trip to the Pumpkin Patch...

2010-10-16T11:38:00.005-10:00

Sawyer was loving the wagon we borrowed from a friend!

Payton had such a fun time picking a tall pumpkin for Daddy, a round pumpkin for Mommy and a small one for himself! Sawyer got to pick out two little round ones too. One for him and one for Baby Hudson. Our porch has all of us represented now :)

Hay Ride

Ready to go pay...

Sawyer spent half the trip in a MOOD.

And the MOOD continued on the ride back to the car :)

Much Needed Update...

2010-10-15T08:43:00.011-10:00

For those of you who have FB, I'm sure you've seen most of this before;

But for those of you who don't, I hope you enjoy the update!

We've been keeping fairly busy but trying to relax a lot at home too. I was told by the doctor to "take it easy" and to try not to pick up the kids. Have you ever tried that? It's harder said than done. I didn't realize how much I pick them up to put them in carseats, booster seats or the bathtub, to sit on the counter when I'm cooking or to help them onto the potty. Like I said, harder said than done.

Below, I tried to capture some pictures of all the things we've been up to. Hope you enjoy!

Counting Down the Days Until Daddy Comes Home

Payton is officially through with naps, so every day he has about and hour and a half of "rest time" in his room and then we do about an hour of "school work/projects." While he's in his room he just has to play quietly, sleep or read his books. He's been getting better and better at building these elaborate lincoln log creations!

We've also been visiting the library for story time. Usually we go about every other week and the boys enjoy the crafts and swapping out their books!

Sawyer has been requesting to use the potty more and more frequently. He just turned 2 so we haven't been pushing the issue but he definitely knows when he has to go and insists that we take him! Payton has also been taking private swim lessons for about 2 months now. He's doing a fantastic job and is just learning how to coordinate blowing, kicking and pulling right now. He would rather just hold his breath and kick all the way across the pool but evidently blowing out and taking breaths out of the water makes you a better swimmer. Who knew?!? Such a Ham! Me and My Friend, Sam

Sam lives across the street and has one little girl and another baby due next week! We enjoy the nights our husbands are both flying late so we can hang out and watch Grey's Anatomy and The Office while the kids sleep. She's a great friend and it's been fun being pregnant together! Last month we enjoyed the Blue Angels at the airshow. The boys were big fans and Payton spent most of his "rest time" watching for "jet planes" out his window! Sawyer is officially sleeping in a toddler bed now. We are anxious to get him into the room with Payton so I can finish decorating/painting his old room for the baby. He's doing great and stays in bed! After the experience we had with Payton transitioning to a bed, I have to admit I was not looking forward to taking him out the crib, but he's doing great! He has a railing now, after falling out of bed twice in one night!

I am growing like a week now that I've reach 25 weeks. I'm sure Jonathan is going to be very surprised at how much different a 20 and 28 week belly looks.

Sawyer loves to help me cook and has even developed a love for broccoli this month!

Payton loves doing his "school work" and all of the sudden a light went on and he's identifying and writing new letters every day! He can write A, B, C, D, E, F, N, O, P, T and Y and can identify a handful more. It's amazing.

Sawyer is quite a sweetheart but can be a troublemaker as well! He loves to tattle on Payton and says, "Paytee did it."

They crack each other up most days. This is a recent photo from lunch. I have no idea what they were giggling about but they were hilarious.

Giggling at Lunch

Payton's Name...He's getting so good at writing it!

This is the group of girls at my MOPS table (minus one who's daughter was sick). I have had the experience of coordinating our local MOPS group of about 40 women. It's been a growing experience as we rely on the Lord to provide for our meetings every other week.

Here we were putting together boxes for Operation Christmas Child. It's a Samaritan's Purse outreach that takes thousands and thousands of shoe boxes full of Christmas gifts to children in countries where they may never receive a gift in their life. It's a really fun experience every year. I also brought home 4 boxes to pack and ship with our family. Payton has had a fun time picking out the gifts for the kids.

Baby Bryant #3

Baby Bryant #3 Saying "Hi"

Little Legs

I changed the blog layout and added a little something new as well.

Let's see if you can figure out what I added!

I hope everyone enjoyed the update. Jonathan should be home in a little over 2 weeks. He's had a pretty eventful time at WTI but I'll let him tell you about that! Please continue to pray for him during his time there and continue to pray for our new baby boy. We had some abnormal ultrasound measurements this month. At this point it's nothing to be overly concerned about but we need God to heal him so that the measurements don't continue to increase, at which point it would be concerning! Thank you so much. Take care and keep us updated as well!

No Pics but at Least it's an Update...

2010-08-20T13:25:00.002-10:00

This has been a very stressful week! Sawyer turned two the day after we returned from the mainland, two days later we found out we're more than likely having another baby boy (we'll know FOR SURE on September 3rd), then we moved our guest room/office to where Sawyer's room was, Sawyer's room to where Payton's room was (with the intention of transitioning Sawyer into the room with Payton very soon), and Payton into their new room where the guest room/office was prior. We painted, hung curtains, purchased new bedding, etc. They love their new baseball-themed room, although Sawyer isn't sleeping in there yet. We thought it would be a good idea to rid him of the paci before we transitioned him into a bed... Which is what pushed my stress meter over the edge. Let's just say after 4 days of anything but peaceful naptimes and more demanding bedtimes, he has it back. He wasn't doing terrible with the transition but all I could think about was how nice it was before we took it away. He was a great sleeper! No need for singing and rocking and book reading, etc. You just lay him in his bed and say go to sleep and that's exactly what he does. Payton use to be that way too, until we took his paci away. Ever since then he's been the biggest pain in the rear at naptime and bedtime! He gets out of bed multiple times and wants a drink and wants his door open and wants his fan on and wants his fan off, etc. I can't help but think that we took his paci away a little too soon, which spurred on these needy habits at sleep-times. So... I gave it back to him and I don't plan on taking it away anytime soon. Hopefully both he and I will be more ready when he's closer to 3. Until then, enjoy that paci Baby Sawyer :)

New Little One at 9 Weeks...

2010-06-22T16:25:00.004-10:00

It's so crazy that at 9 weeks the baby already has a recognizable head, torso, arms and legs.

This isn't the greatest picture but I promise you, they're there :)

First Day of Summer...

2010-06-21T11:44:00.005-10:00

Sawyer has a serious pouty lip when he's mad.

He didn't want to take turns with the hose.

Trying to get the snail out! Loves the Hose

Watering the Grass

Loving the Hose Some More

Playing Hide and Seek Freeze Tag

Loving the Neighbor's Hose

Playing Hide and Seek Freeze Tag with Our Neighbor, Elena

Bringing in the First Day of Summer with a Splash :)

Loving the $20 Walmart Pool...It was worth it :)

We celebrated Payton taking a nap again by going to Kailua and getting ice cream by the fountain (BTW, Payton hadn't taken a nap in almost 3 weeks).

SO FUNNY. Love those shorts, Dad :)

New Haircuts...Finally!

Sweet Baby :) He got a haircut too. I was sick of taking to them to get haircuts and then being unhappy with them afterwards. I am officially my sons' barber :)

More Pictures...

2010-06-07T08:37:00.003-10:00

I have been so sick that the boys are enjoying their jammies a little longer than usual each day!

They've also been getting away with more than usual.

Like coloring on the couch...

And climbing in my baskets.

Is that Papa Russ hair or what?!

Loving the new desk!

Enjoying some milk with their magic straws from Grandma Ginger.

Sawyer in our new baby bassinett.

I bought it on craigslist for $20!

Isn't it great?!

Lately...

2010-06-04T13:42:00.006-10:00

Payton is currently growing grass in this old dinosaur planter that was mine when I was little. He loves to give the dinosaur haircuts!

Isn't this desk adorable?!

A friend of mind was getting rid of it because her kids had outgrown it and I had to snatch it up! The boys already love it and it already has character from all the previous kids who have used it, so I don't have to worry about my kids messing it up! I also got this frame, which use to have an old picture in it.

I took out the picture and painted the backing with chalk board paint to create this cute chalk board! Thanks for the idea, Val!

Yesterday I found Sawyer laying in Payton's bed, all snuggled up with both of their blankies...He's such a cuddler!

In desperate need of a haircut! And a face-washin'!

Sawyer All Snuggled Up in Payton's Bed

Sawyer LOVES the barn from Papa Russ.

Oh yeah...Did I mention that I'm pregnant again?

Payton is turning into such a big boy! I love to watch him lay on the living room floor while watching a movie or TV show.

Sorry it's been so long since we've updated. Life has been busy and for some reason I haven't taken as many pictures lately. Take care!

Poor Sick Baby...

2010-03-05T13:30:00.004-10:00

Poor Sawyer

He's been sick for almost a month.

I took him back to the doctor today and his

cough had progressed to a wheeze, so now

he's back on Albuterol.

The good thing is that we have a wonderful

Pediatrician who always has great advice and

who I completely trust.

It eases so much tension when you're baby is sick.

Sawyer is such a trooper.

Here he is, taking his temperature :) Practicing Breathing in the Tube

He loves to put the corner of his blanky in his ear.

So funny!

Trying so hard to get more Tylenol.

Still Trying

Throwing a fit because I wouldn't give him more Tylenol.

The Boys...

2010-03-01T18:54:00.003-10:00

Sawyer was protesting because I made him sit down.

Feeding the Ducks...

2010-02-25T12:35:00.003-10:00

Feeding the Ducks

Becoming One with the Ducks

This thing was as big as Sawyer...SERIOUSLY! Beautiful Background

Ducklings

Eating the Bread

Homemade Pizza Dough...

2010-02-25T12:30:00.002-10:00

I just noticed these aren't in the right order but whatever.

I made homemade pizza crust this week and it's so good!

A Little Bit of EVERYBODY...

2010-02-16T15:08:00.004-10:00

On the Deck in the Desert

Love that Sweet Face :) Beautiful Sunset Over the Desert

Payton with His New Haircut

Sawyer Likes to Climb and

He Loves BOOKS Sawyer frequently retreats to

his room by himself to read books.

Trying to Climb Again

And...He's Stuck

Mommy's Shart Drawing and Payton's Shark Drawing

We did this in church a few weeks ago.

I was pretty impressed with his shark drawing skills :)

And Me...Just Before a Night out with the Girlies

I know I know...What was I thinking?!

2010-02-10T19:53:00.006-10:00

I got the boys' hair cut tonight.

I was almost having a heart attack as they were

cutting Payton's and then I ended up having them

stop cutting, mid-haircut, with Sawyer.

I brought him home and finished it

myself and am a lot happier with it.

Payton's hair, on the other hand, has gotten

very thick and curly over the past year

and I think it looks better long.

Oh well, it will grow back!

_________________________________________

Don't mind the comb-over on Payton...

He had just gotten out of the bath.

That's better. This is the best photo I could get of Sawyer's hair as he was squirming all over my bed. This is about how much he sat still when getting it cut!

More Lately...

2010-02-06T19:37:00.004-10:00

Payton and Kristin, One of His Best Little Friends

Lately I've been buying them popsicles.

They LOVE them! Sawyer, Lounging by the pool at a friend's birthday party today! All the Kids Playing at the Party

Some Sqaudron Friends

Lately...

2010-02-03T19:12:00.008-10:00

Here's what we've been up to lately.

Payton started preschool in January.

He goes on Tuesdays and Thursdays

and absolutely loves it.

When he's at home he LOVES to play outside

with Sawyer and his friends.

He's still awful at going to bed.

Actually, right now he's crying in his room because I

put my foot down and shut him in his room :)

He'll give in and go to sleep, right?!

Although he's completely potty trained

(with the exception of night time)

he's still learning where it is and is not appropriate to pee

(see below).

Sawyer is quickly reaching his toddler years and

has learned that he has a will of his own.

Here he is (below) watching Sesame Street, or what he

calls "Bi Bi" for Big Bird.

It's definitely his favorite right now.

Payton hasn't napped since last week so as you can

imagine he's pretty tired by dinner.

Sawyer LOVES blueberries and spaghetti. Jonathan's New Jeep

It's a stick so I'm trying to conquer the beast before Jonathan returns. I'm doing pretty well and can actually drive around the block without any difficulty. I haven't attempted traffic yet :)

Sawyer Playing Outside

Payton Playing Outside Sawyer LOVES Popsicles!

Payton LOVES Popsicles TOO!

Sawyer loves to get the bumbo seat out of the closet

so he can sit on the floor and eat his snacks :)

So, I'm happy to say Payton has stopped crying for the current moment. Let's pray that he's actually going to sleep now. I need to break this getting out of bed habit before he's FIVE and still coming downstairs for a "a drink of water" every 10 minutes! It's SO SO annoying! We only have about 1 MONTH left before Jonathan returns and it seems to be one of the most challenging for both of us. It's important that they stay focused on what they're doing in Afghanistan and for me to keep from just throwing in the towel and saying, "I quit." Sometimes I wish I could go on a vacation from motherhood for the next month but then I am reminded of how much I love my children...Just not single parenting :( Enjoy the update and keep in touch. We miss you all.

Random January...

2010-01-21T08:43:00.002-10:00

Tired and Dirty Boys

Who doesn't love a cute baby bottom?!

Watching Pippi Longstocking

They both love it and even SAWYER will sit and watch the WHOLE thing!

Sawyer...

2010-01-03T20:05:00.005-10:00

"Mommy! I'm hungry and I need a cookie!"

I'm eating my cookie.

I'm putting my cookie through the hole in the picnic table.

I'm picking up my cookie. I'm distracted by the golf ball I just saw between my legs.

My chubbie legs.

Hiking to Makapuu Lighthouse...

2009-12-31T13:04:00.002-10:00

Playing at the Playground...

2009-12-27T19:52:00.004-10:00

I want to squeeze him ALL the time!

Playing "Drive Thru Window"

"Can I hold the baseball?"

Swinging his imaginary baseball bat...Sound effects and all.

He's even looking off into the distance as if he hit a long one.

Payton wanted to take a picture of us. He's been insisting on sleeping on the floor with his animals.

Christmas 2009...

2009-12-25T13:47:00.002-10:00

Making special candy cane brownies for Santa.

Unwrapping the candy canes.

Cruching the candy canes with his hammer.

Before our Christmas Eve service at church.

Santa came.

Santa ate our special candy cane brownies.

Boys waiting on the stairs.

Payton...So excited about his bicycle.

Sawyer playing with his new school bus.

Mommy and Sawyer admiring the ABC apple from Nana.

Loving the new bike seat from Papa Russ and Grandma Ginger.

Payton did inform me that he WOULD BE riding his OWN bicycle.

We had to talk about that.

Sawyer and his new bike seat.

Snuggling Sawyer.

Just a Few More...

2009-12-19T22:02:00.004-10:00

Attempt at Using the Self-Timer

I just remembered Payton had his shirt on backwards.

I bribe Payton with candy sometimes so he'll take pictures. Right after we took these I said, "I think we got a good one." And Payton said, "Yay! Now I get a candycane." Haha.

Sometimes I actually blowdry my hair :)

Miscellaneous...

2009-12-19T10:25:00.007-10:00

Payton and Our Friend, Miss Anne

Her husband, Cody, is with Jonathan right now.

Payton was just "eyeing" the candy canes and clearly

Sawyer was not a fan of Santa. The boys LOVE Miss Anne.

Sawyer couldn't have cared less about Santa.

All he wanted to see was the helicopter!

Sawyer, Admiring the Mighty 53

Sunsetting Over Kaneohe Bay

They LOVE to play in the rocks.

Sawyer, Caught in the Act!

Not sure what he was up to but he looks guilty.

Payton Playing with His New Mr. Potato Head

More Kitchen and More Boys...

2009-12-12T08:59:00.004-10:00

Completely Finished...Stools and All

Payton Helping Make Chip Dip New Curtain...Very Happy With It

Sawyer was watching Jonathan read books on TV and he kept trying to climb the entertainment center to get to him :)

That is some SERIOUS belly!

I went in to check on the boys last night and they were both sleeping in the same position! It was too cute to not take a picture :)

Kitchen Redo and Random December Pics...

2009-12-10T22:47:00.006-10:00

Kitchen Redo...I didn't like the first color I painted.

New Sign Another New Sign

I ordered a new vertical pic of Payton...Just waiting on it.

Fort Hase Beach Sand

I was taking a shower and when I came downstairs I found the boys devouring a candy cane while watching TV.

Watching The Triple Crown on The North Shore...

2009-12-10T22:35:00.004-10:00

Triple Crown

What I Usually Look Like...

Triple Crown

Payton thinks he's sneaking away.

November...

2009-12-10T06:33:00.004-10:00

trying to ride the tonka truck

getting his own treat for peeing on the potty

help me help me

bonk from the corner of our end tables

new trio helicopter

payton wanted to take a picture

"take a picture of me and clyde and clyde's friends"

teaching patty cake

washing his own dishes

Future Farmer OR Future Flyer...

2009-11-04T11:43:00.002-10:00

Jonathan saw these pictures and said it was funny to see him studying the combine and helicopter like he was contemplating his future...I hadn't thought about that but it is really funny :)

Squadron Party...

2009-10-30T21:00:00.005-10:00

My Brown-Eyed Baby My Blue-Eyed Baby

Counting the Helicopters

We had the squadron Halloween party tonight

and Payton dressed as a dinosaur and Sawyer as a frog.

Enjoy the photos...

THE Cabinet...

2009-10-29T09:39:00.002-10:00

My Inspiration

The "Before" Cabinet I Purchased

The "After" Cabinet I Puchased

Some Random...Some Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-24T13:38:00.004-10:00

Aluon Farms Pumpkin Patch

Val and Kids Sawyer loved picking his pumpkin.

Picking His Pumpkin

Debating...

Payton and Kristen on the Hay Ride

Right after I took this picture Payton peed on the pumpkin!

YUCK!

Pre "Peeing on the Pumpkin"

Reading Before Bed

Sawyer Copying Payton

Payton Enjoying His New Chair from the Davis Family

Sawyer Enjoying the New Chair

Sharing the Chair

7 Prayers a Day...

2009-10-05T11:42:00.003-10:00

I recently came across this and wanted to share it with all of you. It inspired me to pray for the boys throughout the day. Here is the link to the blog www.audreycaroline.blogspot.com if you want to check out more about the source of the inspiration. 1. When they wake up: "Let the morning bring (child's name) word of your unfailing love, for she has put her trust in You. Show (her/him) the way (she/he) should go, for to you (he/she) lifts up her soul." (Adapted from Psalm 143:8) 2. When they are getting dressed: "Therefore, as God's chosen child, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Lord, help (him/her) bear with others and forgive whatever grievances (he/she) has against others. Help (him/her) forgive as the Lord forgave (him/her). And over all these virtues, help (him/her) put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." (Adapted from Colossians 3:12-14) 3. While they are eating: "Teach (child's name) the secret of being content in any and every situation whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. Teach (him/her) that (he/she) can do everything through him who gives (him/her) strength." (Adapted from Philippians 4:12-13) 4. When they go out of the house: "(Name of child), do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-His good, pleasing and perfect will." (Adapted from Romans 12:2) 5. While they are taking a bath: Lord, give (name of child) clean hands and a pure heart, and let (him/her) not lift (his/her) soul to an idol or swear by what is false. Let (him/her) receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God (his/her) Savior. Let (him/her) be part of the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. (Adapted from Psalm 24:4-6) 6. When they are going to bed: "The Lord Your God is with you; he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, be will rejoice over you with singing." (Zephaniah 3:17) 7. While they are sleeping: "I pray that (name of child) will do everything without complaining or arguing, so that he/she may become blameless and pure, a child of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which he/she shines like a star in the universe as he/she holds out the word of life-in order that he/she may boast on the day of Christ that he/she did not run or labor for nothing." (Adapted from Philippians 2:14-16)

Trip to Ohio...

2009-10-05T10:45:00.010-10:00

at the zoo

amber and payton waiting to ride in the combine uncle jason helping payton pedal

sawyer snuggling uncle scott before bed

payton and grandma ginger doing the b-ball pose

grandma and papa with all the grandkids

grandma and papa with my sister's girls

me and the boys at the zoo

riding in papa's "dump tractor"

sawyer and papa

caleb and keston with payton and sawyer

waiting for the combine

some photos i took of josie

The Fair...

2009-09-05T02:15:00.004-10:00

one of the puppies at barnyard babyland

payton, riding the ponies for the 1st of MANY times sawyer, watching payton ride the ponies

jason and josie

payton riding the ponies for the 2nd time

they let sawyer ride for free since there was

an empty little tiny pony

payton riding the ferris wheel for the 1st time

with uncle jason and marissa

waiting in line for the ferris wheel with uncle jason

kenzie showing her pig payton and aunt amber watching kenzie show her pig

keep watching...i'm sure i'll continue to post fair pics

A Few New Pics...

2009-08-23T14:47:00.003-10:00

Me and Sawyer at Nana's House

Me and Jonathan's Cousin, Cynthia, at the Cowboys v Titans Game

I know it's not the best picture of Payton but

I love the outfit...He looks so old! Walking Sawyer...Love the Swim Diaper

Professional Pics of the Boys

Jonathan and His Mustache...

2009-08-23T14:40:00.002-10:00

Very intimidating huh?!

Photos from Jonathan...

2009-08-08T07:31:00.002-10:00

Jonathan "making a silly face" as Payton put it :)

Their Tent Jonathan sleeps on the bottom rack.

I got these from Jonathan today.

I thought most of you would enjoy seeing him.

Trash to Treasure...And More

2009-08-03T08:52:00.006-10:00

MY INSPIRATION

I found this picture in a magazine and decided I had to have something similar to store our china! It so happens that I have a friend from MOPS who refurbishes furniture and she has agreed to do it for me! So I went on the prowl for a similar piece of old furniture for very little money :)

MY FIND

I found this armoire for only $70!

It needs a little work but it's going to be an original, one of a kind cabinet for storing our china and linens and I'm SUPER excited! She's going to finish it for me while I'm on the mainland and I'll get it back just in time to move to our new house!

I potted some new flowers this week and this is the frog that was living in my largest flower pot under my flowers! It's almost gave me a heart attack when I went to add dirt to the pot! I think they'll look much better once they're on our NEW front porch!

New Flowers

More New Flowers

I put together this flower arrangement off of our bush in our backyard!

Only in Hawaii :)

Doesn't it look wonderful on our new table :)

Jesus Loves Me...

2009-07-28T15:49:00.002-10:00

New Table...

2009-07-27T16:49:00.002-10:00

Not to big for 4 and plenty big for 6 :)

Lots of Randomness...No Particular Order

2009-07-26T10:37:00.006-10:00

Loves to Sit on Things

Big Boy Underwear

Or What Payton Calls "Good Boy" Underwear Playing Cars Giving Payton the "I don't care that I just destroyed your block tower" look. Building "Daddy's Ship" Not sure what that means.

Climbing Everything

Attempt at Using the Self-Timer

Roses from Jonathan for My Birthday

Potty Training and ALWAYS Naked

Waving "Hi" at the Neighbor Dog

My mom sent me a frame so I could put a picture of Jonathan in a place where the boys could see it and reach it. I put it on the second shelf of this stand and I noticed the other day it had been moved to the first, so I know Payton found it and was looking at it. Then I got out of the shower today and I caught Sawyer admiring the photo, pointing and saying "Dada." I got it on video at the bottom of the page too! SOOO adorable!

Payton Takes Good Care of Mommy

and Gives Me Lots of Love

Blowing "Daddy's Silly Kisses" on My Cheek

Sweet Child

They're finally playing together...

No wait, they're fighting over a cup!

New Stand

New Chairs...Table to Be Picked Up Today

Payton use to push these stools around all the time when he was learning to walk. Now Sawyer does it too. It's SO loud!

New Potty...Payton's Doing GREAT at Potty Training

Awww...They're dancing!

No wait, Payton is trying to MCMAP Sawyer.

This is what Sawyer looks like when he wakes up in the morning after 12 hours of CONSECUTIVE sleep! Don't get too excited. He only did it twice and now he's sick and waking up again several times at night!

This is my view of Sawyer for most of the day.

More Sawyer at My Feet

Video of Sawyer when he "Found" Daddy

Update on Jonathan...

2009-07-22T19:36:00.004-10:00

Jonathan has finally arrived safe on deck at his final destination.

Old and New...

2009-07-22T15:03:00.007-10:00

The time is coming soon. We'll be moving into the left side

of the duplex in the center (when looking at the picture)

and moving out of the house in the picture at the bottom.

The base has been making some upgrades...

In case you couldn't tell ;)

Effective October 13th our address will be:

4943 Brown Drive

Kailua, HI 96734

Enjoy the pictures and if anyone wants to visit,

now is the time because we'll finally have FOUR bedrooms!

A Little About Jonathan...

2009-07-18T08:59:00.001-10:00

One of the Helos from the

Sqaudron Jonathan is About to Replace...

A US Marine directs a CH-53 helicopter as it delivers supplies for their convoy in Koshtay in Afghanistan's Helmand Province on July 11. Efforts by the US military to stabilise the Afghan government and defeat the Taliban rely heavily on controlling the lawless province, where much of the opium that funds the insurgency is grown and through which Taliban fighters travel to safe havens in Pakistan. US President Barack Obama said US and NATO-led troops had pushed back the Taliban in Afghanistan but he warned that there was still a long, hard campaign ahead.

Jonathan's Last Day at Home...

2009-07-15T13:32:00.004-10:00

Wearing Daddy's Dog Tags

Saying "Goodbye" at the Sqaudron Watching the "Daddy Read Books" Video Before Bedtime

Videos...

2009-07-06T13:00:00.003-10:00

Playdate with Payton's Friends...All Girls!

Sawyer loves to chase any ball around with his bat and Payton has quickly learned how to get what he wants from Sawyer. Watch how sly he is at stealing Sawyer's ball!

Lots of Randomness...

2009-07-06T09:50:00.010-10:00

Double Trouble

Jonathan Making a Tent with The Boys

Helping Daddy Pack

More Helping Daddy Pack

This is what Payton looks like first thing in

the morning when he opens the hall door.

These are the kind of notes my husband

leaves me...I love him :)

Thought I'd share this picture too...

This is real life, right?!

Playing "Tower" with Daddy

Enjoying the Pit of a Mango...

It's a great teether!

Trip to the Hale Koa...

2009-06-28T20:14:00.009-10:00

This weekend we decided to stay

in Waikiki at the Hale Koa as a little

"pre-deployment" vacation for all of us.

It was nice to have a change of

scenery and the kids had a blast!

Shriveled Toes...We did lots of swimming!

Sharing Pretzels with Daddy

Payton Under Water

Enjoying Dinner at Benihana's...See the Onion Volcano

Our Chef

Brushing Their Teeth Before Dinner

This is a picture of Payton right after

a fire alarm went off at the hotel.

We were ALL napping and Jonathan

and I jumped right out of bed but the

boys didn't even flinch...And we

thought they were light sleepers!

Going Back to the Room to Check Out :(

One of the best parts of the weekend

was that Payton decided he was ready to swim!

Humorous Photos...

2009-06-24T12:42:00.004-10:00

So, Sawyer is always a pretty fussy

baby but during the past few days

he's been unusually fussy.

I know he doesn't have an ear infection so

I'm assuming he's teething since I can see

another top tooth attempting to break through.

So this is pretty much the only way I can

get anything done lately. Fortunately for me,

Sawyer really likes the Ergo carrier.

*****

So for those of you who know me WELL

I'm sure you can see the humor in this picture!

*****

WHY WOULDN'T MY CHILD BE BETTER

SOOTHED BY MOPPING THAN BY

ROCKING IN THE ROCKING CHAIR?!

Lessons with Daddy...

2009-06-24T07:55:00.005-10:00

Sawyer is 10 and a half months now

and already one of his absolute favorite

toys is his Rangers baseball bat.

He crawls around the floor with the

bat in his hand chasing any type of ball.

It makes his Daddy very proud!

Not Too Proud...

2009-06-18T12:31:00.003-10:00

Lining Up His Strawberries this Morning

(prior to bruise on head)

Eating Lunch After Errand Running and Flipping out of Cart

I'm not too proud to admit my faults, especially when it could potentially benefit someone else. The reason I am writing this is because today Payton fell out of a grocery cart. It scared the life out of me! We were leaving Toys R Us after returning a broken tambourine Jonathan and I had bought for Sawyer for his birthday. I had purchased diapers and put them under the cart and when we were going through the parking lot the diapers fell out from under the cart and brought the cart to a screeching halt. Payton lost his balance and flipped over the front end of the cart and caught his forehead on the parking lot asphalt.

So, lesson learned:

Even if Payton throws a fit because he doesn't want to do something, like be buckled into a grocery cart, I'm not giving in for the sake of avoiding a tantrum anymore. I know what's best for him, that's why I am the parent and he is not. I just thought I'd share because sometimes we (including me, obviously) think we're immune to the warnings on grocery carts, toys, etc. but we're not. It's probably happened 1,000 times before and with more devastating results than a scraped up head and that's why the warning is there. Fellow mommies, I hope you're encouraged by my mistake today :)

My Thoughts...

2009-06-17T20:29:00.005-10:00

I don't usually do this but I've had some extra time to myself tonight so here goes... I just finished putting the boys to bed and I was sitting in my favorite chair deciding what the most productive thing to do would be and I just couldn't decide. I started to watch the latest episode of Wipe Out but quickly decided that I would probably end up dumber by the end. Then I put Payton back in bed for the 3rd time after he informed me that is was "No dark mommy, no dark." Then I checked out a friend of a friend's blog and cried a few tears over their loss of a premature child. Then I realized Payton was up again, watching me. I then invited him up into my favorite chair and held him for a few minutes while he watched Wipe Out and I cried because I am so thankful for healthy children. Then I put him back in bed, where he has remained for the past half hour or so. Lately I've been overwhelmed with all of the latest and greatest health news. One day soy is good for you and the next day it's not. One day milk is the best thing ever invented and the next day I'm reading about people's efforts to cut out all dairy because the hormones cause premature puberty in girls. In one magazine I read about the best sunscreen and then I read articles about how toxic it is and how it's worse than the actual sun exposure. I try to cook balanced meals for my family and over the past 5 years I've made a lot of changes including switching to whole grains, cutting out processed foods, cooking with olive oil only and using real butter, among other things, but it's overwhelming. I was just reading a friend of a friend's blog (again) and her refrigerator looked like the produce section of an organic supermarket. I feel like in comparison all I am feeding my children are pestisides and hormones and I'm overwhelmed by the newly gained insight. I feel convicted to start making Sawyer's baby food and to throw out the goldfish and graham crackers but then I remember that I am dealing with and trying to feed REAL people. Sawyer has learned to spit out food he doesn't like and Payton throws tantrums multiple times throughout the day when he can't have what he wants to eat. I can't imagine what he would do if I handed him smashed beans and avocado with chips for a snack. In order to be able to sleep tonight I have convinced myself that just like everything else in life, MODERATION is key. I think I am going to start trying to buy more organic, watching less TV and reading more and adding a mineral supplement to our daily routine. Small changes at a time right?!

Reading to Brother...

2009-06-17T14:47:00.006-10:00

Sawyer's 1st Birthday Party...

2009-06-15T13:22:00.006-10:00

Sawyer Eating His First Piece of Cake

All the Presents and Balloons

This is straight out of a scene from Little Rascals.

I bet he's going to start a He Man Woman Haters Club

when he goes to school!

This is a picture of me telling Jonathan that

Sawyer is NOT going to crab the whole cake.

It looks like Sawyer is on his Daddy's side!

Blowing out the Candle

Playing with His New Ball from

Uncle AC and Auntie Lindy

Trying out His New Lawn Mower

from Daddy and Mommy

Opening Presents

Miss Valerie made Sawyer's cake!

It was amazing :)

Decorations and Food

We celebrated Sawyer's First Birthday

a little early since Jonathan is leaving in July.

Sorry to confuse some of you.

His really birthday is still August 11th!

Jonathan's Promotion...

2009-06-09T21:16:00.002-10:00

Jonathan put on Captain this month

so he had his promotion ceremony today.

Enjoy the photos!

Trip to TX...

2009-06-09T21:11:00.001-10:00

Just thought I'd share a few photos from our trip.

Enjoy!

Time to Lower the Crib...

2009-05-20T15:59:00.004-10:00

I put Sawyer down for his nap today

and I caught him STANDING in his crib.

I guess it's time for Daddy to lower the crib!

Here is the first glimpse of him when I opened the door :)

See My Teeth :) Playing with the Door Stopper Precious Cuddle Baby...He Makes Me Smile

Sawyer Meeting Milestones...

2009-05-18T12:22:00.009-10:00

This morning I noticed Sawyer

trying to pull himself up next to

the toy box so I quickly grabbed the

camera and I actually caught him

standing up for the first time!

Trying So Hard to See INTO the Toy Box

HERE IS THE PICTURE (BELOW)

His First Glimpse INTO the Toy Box

He turned around and looked

at me as if he were saying

"Wow! The toy factory!"

The Winning Photos...

2009-05-15T08:16:00.004-10:00

These are just random but

Payton didn't feel very good yesterday and

ended up getting a 101 fever in the afternoon.

I thought this picture was sweet of him laying

on the couch with his T-Rex and

Clyde (the monkey) watching "Cindawewi".

This is how he wanted to be wrapped

up earlier in the day...Before I realized he

was trying to tell me that he was "sick".

We had so many great photos

we had a hard time choosing but

these were the winners :)

2 and a Half AND 9 Months...

2009-05-11T12:10:00.007-10:00

Sawyer 9 Months at the Pool

Taking a Nap Later On...He LOVES His Blankie :) 2 and a Half Year Old Hand

Payton's favorite color is orange so he goes to the

refrigerator (where we had this hanging for a while)

and points to this picture and says,

"Mommy, I so pwoud of you" and "I made dat".

Orange being his favorite color, it didn't surprise me

when he made me an orange flower for Mother's Day

in Sunday school.

Trip to the Honolulu Zoo...

2009-05-06T12:38:00.003-10:00

Me and Boys at the Zoo

Payton Loved the Zebras

Watching the Rhinos

Payton and His Friend Joy

Sawyer Enjoying Some Graham Crackers

Don't you just love them baby blues?!

Typical Baby Behavior After a Long Morning at the Zoo

Randomness...

2009-05-03T20:04:00.005-10:00

Payton and His Friends, Abigail and Kristin at the Pool

I love this picture because it really shows

how chubby Sawyer has gotten recently!

Payton Taking a Break from

the Pool While Eating a Snack Sawyer Feeding Himself Cheerios...Or at Least Trying Payton Tickling Sawyer

Jonathan Reading to the Boys the

Night Before He Left for Yuma

Reading "Thomas" to the Boys

Sawyer, Sawyer, Sawyer...

2009-04-21T13:00:00.003-10:00

Outfit So Cute I Had to Share

Trying So Hard to Put the Paci By Himself Best Attempt to Crawl So Far

Cute Video...

2009-04-19T12:04:00.004-10:00

Sawyer is starting to copy things we do, especially Jonathan.

He's so fascinated with him.

Everytime he hears Jonathan talk he

turns his head and tries to find him.

Payton's First "Barber Shop" Haircut...

2009-04-16T15:36:00.005-10:00

The "Before" Shot

I took Payton to the Barber Shop on base today.

I was tired of fighting with him to give him a haircut.

He did a great job and afterwards we went to the exchange he picked

out a York Peppermint Patty as a treat :)

This is what Sawyer thinks of my schedule...

He's trying to destroy my watch :( Who me? I was just playing with my toy!

Family Photo Shoot

2009-04-15T19:25:00.006-10:00

We had family photos taken a few weeks ago.

There are just a few of them here.

You can see the rest at the link below...

http://mandysee.smugmug.com/gallery/7902662_UhQD2/1/512898705_5ZXEm

Enjoy!

Happy Easter...

2009-04-12T12:38:00.007-10:00

I had to add this picture!

A friend took it with a different camera so it's not as clear but I LOVE IT!

Here we are...

Fulfilling our New Year's resolution

to take more pictures of US!

We took family photos at church this morning

and they turned out really well.

Payton Hunting for Eggs

Sawyer and Jonathan at the Easter Party

We don't have any pictures WITH the Easter bunny.

Payton and Savannah weren't interested in getting any closer.

Grandpa Rob's Family Visits Hawaii...

2009-04-12T11:36:00.009-10:00

Everybody parent loves a picture of a sleeping baby :)

Sawyer loves his jumperooooo :)

This is what happens when you ask your 2 year old to give your 8 month old a snack! (Notice the rice puffs scattered all over the kitchen floor!) Sawyer at the Hale Koa Hotel...Getting dressed after a good swim! Payton Feeding his Animals (Yarn was the food of choice on this particular day!)

8 Month Sawyer

Payton Swimming with Grandpa Rob

Sawyer and Daddy at the Pool

Sawyer and Grandpa Rob

Payton Naming His Animals

Everytime Payton looks at him, Sawyer laughs!

More Laughing...