The Rowdy Robertson's

2011-03-28T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm going to 'catch-up' on some serious blogging this week.

PROMISE... cross my heart and hope to die... stick a needle in my eye....

My Little Photographer

2010-12-23T06:45:00.000-08:00

Neeley has been a bit obsessed with talking pictures lately. I sure hope that Santa brings her a camera so that she will leave mine alone. Anyway, I just wanted to share some of her best pictures. Enjoy!

For your viewing pleasure...

2010-12-23T06:34:00.000-08:00

The Rowdy Robertsons

The Shelleys

Jared, Jennifer, Jadon, & Jacob

The Vigors

Aunt Karen, Kacie, Maddie, & Ty

Kalley & Alyssa

Grandma & Grandpa Holm

The Wests

The Wild Whittakers

The Schofields

The Fausetts

Stacy & Abby

Grandma & Grandpa Robertson

Brylen's Halloween Birthday Bash

2010-10-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Since Brylen was sick for her 1st Birthday, I decided we should have a BIG 2nd Birthday Bash. AND... since I love Halloween, I thought it would be super fun to have a costume party. I guess I wasn't thinking about how much work would be involved, but oh well. The things you do for you kids....

If you happen to be in the neighborhood Saturday the 16th, stop by. There will be lots of fun, treats, dinner, and the added bonus that Brian is dressing up. Bring your camera!

First Day of School

2010-10-11T10:50:00.000-07:00

Back to 'Busy Bee Preschool'.

Neeley and Miss Paulette

I'm so far behind, I thought I was first!

2010-06-26T10:05:00.000-07:00

DISNEYLAND 2010

I'm so behind I don't even know where to start.... sooooo... what better place to begin than DISNEYLAND?

My awesome in-law's took the whole family to Disneyland in May. The kids were so excited to have Grandma and Grandpa there this time! We were super spoiled! The weather was awesome and the crowds weren't too bad. This time we were able to go on a few of the 'big kid' rides... thanks to Grandma Annie for entertaining Brylen!

Neeley is already asking when we are going again. Shhhhhh.... I secretly can't wait to go again, either.

The plane ride...

This time we had a limo take us from the airport to the Grand Californian.

Six adults and four kids + luggage for TEN + my huge double stroller = a volkswagon full of clowns.

But we made it, and it was a lot more fun than a shuttle or the Disneyland Express bus.

Ridin' like a rockstar

Grandma and Grandpa posing with Woody made out of legos at the Lego store.

I had to include a picture of Brian smiling. I promise he loves Disneyland and he is the funnest daddy ever.... it just doesn't show in most of the pictures ;)

The Storyteller's Cafe Character Breakfast is my favorite. Mmmmmm.......

Breakfast in the Park with Minnie & Friends

The whole crew...

Such a slacker.....

2010-06-24T17:30:00.000-07:00

I know I'm a blog slacker. Facebook has taken over all of my internet time. I promise I am going to catch up... PROMISE!!! Stay tuned...

When your one-year-old is TOO quiet...

2010-01-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

The scene of the crime:

And a trail of evidence leading to the prime suspect:

Zero... Zilch... Notta... Nothing to try to cover her tracks...

She was totally caught in the act and showed NO remorse...

The mug shot:

But seriously, who could possibly get mad at this face? This slobbery, snotty-nosed, crazy-haired, jack-o-lantern smile girl steals my heart. (She was actually saying 'cheese' with every click of the camera.)

So I put the little vandal in 'Baby Jail' and made her think about what she'd done. Being ONE YEAR OLD is exhausting!

Motivational Picture of the Day

2010-01-07T23:37:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen that motivational poster that says something like...

'ENTHUSIASM... You're at a 10, we need you at a 2.' or something like that. Well, this is my version of that poster:

Yes, I really was that excited to see Elmo. And Zoe, and Oscar the Grouch, and Big Bird... well, you get the picture. And my girls were excited too. They were just saving their energy for the ride home. Ha, Ha.

{I totally stole this picture off of my sister Lynette's blog. You can check out her version of 'Sesame Street Live' by clicking here.}

Santa

2009-12-10T14:44:00.000-08:00

(Shelley Family... you were missed! Next year??)

Pucker Up

2009-12-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

Anybody wanna kiss??? I thought so....

Sew Thankful

2009-12-08T06:01:00.000-08:00

What can I say? Maybe I haven't had time to blog because I've been too busy sewing. Neeley had a Thanksgiving program with her Preschool, and I was just itching to make her something out of this darling 'fall' fabric I found at the fabric store. So the idea to make one skirt turned into me actually making four skirts (Emma has one, too). They all looked so stinkin' cute at Thanksgiving dinner. You will just have to take my word for it because I was too busy stuffing my face to stop and take a picture.

Before the program started, Neeley was not happy that she had to sit and wait. If looks could kill.....

And here's a quick pic of my other turkey's curly hair topped off with my favorite Turkey Bow.

I have so much to be thankful for... so, so much.

I'm Ba-ack!!

2009-12-07T23:00:00.000-08:00

I know I've been MIA for a while. Even I don't know where in the heck I've been. We've had sick kids, fun visitors, and lots and lots of holiday fun. Halloween and Thanksgiving came and went in a crazy blur, and now we're in the Christmas spirit. I just thought I had better blog a few pictures so that I won't feel like such a bad mom.

So here's my 'Halloween in December' pictures:

Move over Glinda.... Neeley was the cutest witch ever.

And lil' Miss Brylen Jean was the sweetest pirate.

I even got in the Halloween spirit (sort of). I don't want to break my arm by patting myself on the back, but I made the girls costumes. I don't know how I'm gonna top 'em next year.... I think they turned out pretty darn cute.

Happy Birthday Brylen!

2009-10-25T11:54:00.000-07:00

I'm a bad mom. Brylen turned ONE on the 21st, and I'm just getting around to posting a few pictures.

I can't believe my baby is ONE... where did the time go??? I don't know when this sweet girl lost her 'baby look', but she is looking more and more like a 'big girl' everyday. I still just wanna squeeze her all the time!

Happy 1st Birthday, Toola Bear!

Halloween Pictures

2009-10-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

Check this out at http://www.jackandjillphotography.blogspot.com/.

That's what she said....

2009-10-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

Neeley: "Mom? Are you in charge because you're mean and you're the mom?"

Me: "ummmmmm........."

Neeley: "When I grow up and get big, I'm gonna be a mean, in-charge mom."

You go, girl!

Oh, Baby!

2009-10-06T11:46:00.000-07:00

And this is what Brylen was doing while I was bloggin'.....

Sweet Brylen has turned into a maniac... but definitely the cutest maniac I've ever seen! While I was trying to type, she was playing peek-a-boo around my laptop. Who could resist that slobbery, gummy smile? Not this momma! And the hair, oh, the hair! She has quite a curly mop that she inherited from me (sorry, sissy), but it fits her little spitfire personality perfectly. She is quite the handful, but simply irresistible! Matter of fact, I'm gonna go love on her now!

A Very Happy Un-Birthday...

2009-10-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

Since Neeley has a summer birthday, today was her 'Un-Birthday' at Preschool. She was so excited! She's always the queen at our house (just ask her), but thanks to her preschool, she now has a 'Queen Neeley' button to prove it! Being the 'Queen' at Preschool has all sorts of queenly duties... bringing treats, being the leader, wearing a queen button, and getting to make a poster all about yourself (complete with personal photo). Oooohhhhhh..... Aaahhhhhhh! Now all that's missing is a crown.

Since cupcakes are not allowed, we made these pudding-cones. I think they turned out super cute!

We went to the circus a week ago, and I made the girls these circus outfits. Neeley wanted to wear hers today. Notice the pink 'Queen Neeley' button.

Just how 'close' is 'TOO CLOSE'?

2009-09-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

ummmmm..... probably this close. Wouldn't you say, Grandpa Holm?

My Preschooler

2009-09-13T23:09:00.000-07:00

My sweet girl started Preschool last week *boo hoo, sniff, sniff*. She kept asking me if I was going to cry. Who? Me? -- Cry? I don't know what she's talking about. She is getting to be such a big girl.

She was rockin' those knee socks... the pom-poms were awesome!

More Disneyland

2009-09-13T22:38:00.001-07:00

This was Neeley's favorite ride (just ask her... she'll even sing the song for you... over and over and over and over...)

It's a Small World

The Princess Celebration Dinner

Chip & Dale Breakfast at The Storytellers Cafe

The Happiest Place on Earth...

2009-09-12T20:31:00.000-07:00

WARNING: PICTURE OVERLOAD!!!!

I just want to give everyone fair warning that the next few post will contain about a GAZILLION pictures of our week-long family vacation to Disneyland.

Breakfast in the Park with Minnie & Friends

Nettie Skettie aint no good...

2009-08-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

'Cause even though she just had a birthday, she's still H-O-T as H-E-double-hockey-sticks.... and still in her 20's. Matter of fact, she is the perfect age... that magic number that all women claim to be forever. 29.

So Happy Birthday, Nettie. I hope your day was every bit as beautiful as you! I love you, little sister!

Cookie Monsters

2009-08-10T07:19:00.001-07:00

'Me want COOOKIEEEES!!!'

I'm not sure if Brylen helped herself to more cookies, or if she had an accomplice (wonder who that could have been? hmmmm), but check out the huge pile of cookies Brylen is munchin' on.

I'm guessing they are both guilty. I can hardly wait to see what kind of trouble these two sweeties can create. It's a good thing they are so darn cute.

Anybody want a huge pile of sprinkles with a little cookie underneath?

Dear Grandma & Grandpa

2009-08-06T11:27:00.000-07:00

We just wanted to tell you THANKS for the fun wagon ride the other night. The pillows and blankies made for a pretty smooth ride.

Grandpa, you're the best wagon-puller EVER! Our mom told us that you can even pull great, big fat pregnant women... you must be awfully strong.

Maybe someday we will be big enough to ride a bike like Grandma DeAnn. But I don't know if we will ever be able to ride as good as she does... she can turn around in the road and everything! WOW!!

And thanks, Grandpa, for making sure we didn't loose any fingers when we fed the horses those teeny, tiny apples. Our mom was pretty scared (but she's a 'fraidy cat anyways).

XOXOXO

Lots of Love,

Neeley & Brylen

I'm Ba-ack!

2009-07-27T07:32:00.001-07:00

It's been a super busy summer. Brian is still working in Delta, so we have been spending a lot of time on the road. It's actually been pretty fun. Last year we only went camping once or twice in our new fifth wheel because I was pregnant, so we are definitely making up for it this year. Neeley thinks it's super fun to get to 'camp' with Daddy in Delta.

We've stayed busy with yard work, Neeley's birthday, new windows in the house, gymnastics, sick kids, and more yard work. I'm ready for a vacation. How about the 'happiest place on earth'? We're going to Disneyland in a few weeks for SIX days! Brian and I are more excited than Neeley. Sad, I know. Brian hasn't had more that three days off in two months, so it will be nice to get away.

Anyway, Uncle Nilsy got a new camera and wanted to 'test' the evening light. I just happened to have two beautiful 'testers'.

Don't they look excited?

Here's my little poser. No, we didn't tell her to put her hand on her hip and throw a shoulder forward... she's just a natural.

Brylen has learned to patty-cake

and throw her arms in the air when we say, "SOOOO Big!"

I have LOTS more pictures of our summer to post, so stay tuned.

Let's Celebrate!

2009-06-03T11:52:00.000-07:00

Today is Neeley Ann's birthday. Our sweet baby turned 3 years old! We tried to wake her up before Brian left for work so that he could watch her open her presents, but she was O-U-T out.

So it was up to us girls to get the party started!

Neeley opened her presents, while Brylen did this:

Let the celebration begin! Neeley still has a big present at home, we are going to try to go to the zoo on Saturday, and then we're having a little party on Sunday. Stay tuned for more pictures of the festivities!

When I Get Big

2009-06-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

Ask Neeley why she wants to grow bigger, and you will get the same answer every time: "So I can use scissors." I didn't know that scissors were such a milestone, but apparently, they are. We've been staying with Brian in Delta, and we have to get pretty creative to keep from going crazy in the trailer. Sooooooo, I finally broke down and bought Neeley her very own pair of scissors (safety ones, of course).

Brylen has a hard time napping in the trailer, so she had finally gone to sleep and I wanted Neeley to be quiet. I broke out the scissors. Well, I should be careful what I wish for, because I didn't hear a peep out of Neeley for almost 2 hours. Finally, after cutting a million pieces of construction paper into confetti, she sighed and said, "Mom, this is making me really tired" and then went back to snipping away. She kept cutting for 20 more minutes. Then the scissors broke. I swear I could smell smoke.

Pretty Pony

2009-06-03T11:29:00.000-07:00

I couldn't find the elastics to do Neeley's hair the other day. I mean, hundreds of brightly colored elastics GONE! It seems we have a little stylist in the house. Neeley put every single elastic around her bouncy horse's ears. On the bright side, at least she didn't try to put them on her sister's ears.

Worms

2009-06-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

Instead of a rainbow after the storm, we got worms. A lot of worms. So what's a girl to do? Get a tupperware container from mom, and recruit dad to go on a worm hunt, of course.

Our driveway, sidewalk, curb, and street are now worm-free! Thanks, Neeley Bug!

This Lil' Piggy

2009-05-20T09:55:00.001-07:00

It's kind of hard to see her piggies against my brown couch, but believe me.... they are oh, so cute!!! And those baby blues *SIGH* steal my heart. Brylen will be 7 months old tomorrow. And Miss Neeley Ann will be 3 years old in two weeks. I guess time flies when you're having fun!

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

2009-05-05T17:34:00.000-07:00

BEFORE

AFTER

Can you hear the angel choirs? My handsome husband is back! Not that a silly billy goatee could ever make him ugly... but I um...just, um... yeah... no. I just received this picture message on my phone... Brian cut the goatee off. This isn't the first time he has had one that long... the last one was way longer... and he wore it in a ponytail. With lots of rubber bands. Like a 'Hell's Angel'. Now I have the giggles. But that's another post for another day.

And the winner is........

2009-05-03T08:15:00.001-07:00

ME.... I'm the one getting the new dishes (ha, ha, ha)!!! I totally LOVE all three dish designs, but I am going to get #2 - 'Happy Days'. Isn't that an appropriate name for these darling dishes?

Oh, sister, where art thou?

2009-05-03T07:22:00.001-07:00

MISSING: (not just missing from the scene, but I'm missing her, too):

Rachel Ann Holm Shelley

DOB: 01/01/1979 age 30

Height: 5' 9''

Weight: Just Right

Hair: ??

Eyes: Super blue

I can't remember the last time I've seen her... maybe January or February? She's been missing from the blogging world for 3 - yes, THREE- weeks. She has beautiful blue eyes, but I'm not sure of her hair color right now... it tends to change frequently. She has two beautiful little boys, and an extra silly husband. Rachel is the best seamstress this side of the Mississippi, and can craft just about anything. She is an excellent writer and storyteller... maybe that is why I've been missing her in the blogging world. She's famous for her, "Daily Dose of David", "Thursday Thirteen", and all around wit. I know she secretly 'blog spies' from a distance, so if you're reading this, sister, I miss you. I miss signing on to The Shelley's and seeing pictures of your darling boys, or reading about the funny adventures of 'David the Dork' (I made that up myself). Let us know what's going on in your world, Rachiepoo. I really miss you. (Did I make my point clear?)

Let's dish...

2009-05-01T21:44:00.001-07:00

I'm getting new dishes for Mother's Day. I'm pretty sure which ones I'm gonna get, but what do you think? Gimme your two cents and then guess which dishes I like the best.

The 'Skew' Bus

2009-05-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

The school bus stops in front of our house about 4 times a day - twice in the morning, twice in the afternoon. Ever since Neeley has figured out that it takes kids to and from school, she has had an obsession with the 'skew' bus. Well, today Neeley's dream came true... Neeley received front-door-school-bus-service complete with her own personal chauffeur... and not just the usual-everyday-school bus driver either... it was Brian's Uncle Scott! Now how awesome is that???
We didn't tell Neeley that she was going for a bus ride until the bus was outside of our house. She was super excited when she saw the bus, but when we told her that it was here to pick her up, she was out the door. I had the video camera and she wouldn't even look back or give me a wave... she was 'outta here!'

Neeley and Brian had the entire bus to themselves... and Uncle Scott, of course. Brian said that Neeley kept saying, "I like this, Dad. I really like this." I think that Daddy liked it, too.

Who's smile is bigger?

Uncle Scott gave her a bag with a coloring book about bus safety, some crayons, and a bus sticker. Seriously, the girl was in heaven!! Thank you Uncle Scott!

Holy Birthdays Batman!

2009-04-23T19:59:00.000-07:00

> Russell (third stooge on the right)

Jase

Emma

Crystal (with our pretty Mom and beautiful Brylen)

Dad

April is a SUPER busy birthday month for the 'Holm' Family. The festivities start on the 6th with Russell's birthday. The 16th is Jase's... the 2oth is shared by Emma and Crystal... and the 23rd is Dad's happy day. Then we top it all off with Mom and Dad's Anniversary on the 30th. Lots of candles, singing, cake and ice cream (with a little Easter somewhere in the mix).

And I can't forget Brian's brother Kevin... his birthday is on the 4th, but I couldn't find a picture of him to post, so I guess he's off the hook.

Happy Birthday!

Has anyone seen my baby?

2009-04-16T21:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Neeley Ann,

I just snuck into your room to check on you as you sleep. Instead of finding my tiny, little baby Neeley, I found a big girl. When... HOW??? did you get so big? Just yesterday you didn't have two strands of hair, and tonight, there you lay with two -yes, TWO- blonde piggy tails. Instead of being my baby, you're now busy 'baby-ing' your baby sister. What a wonderful big sister you have turned out to be.

Sweet, little girl, please stop growing up so darn fast! Slow down and let your mommy watch you 'be little' for just a minute longer.

I love you, Neeley Bug... little, big, and everything in-between.

Love,

Mommy

P.S. Will you please pass this message on to your sister? You two seem to have some sort of unspoken 'language'. I just whispered it into her ear, but maybe she'll listen to you.

Happy Birthday Jaybird!

2009-04-16T16:04:00.000-07:00

This handsome boy turned 4 years old today:

Happy Birthday to YOU! Happy Birthday to YOU!

Happy Birthday dear JASE!!! Happy Birthday to YOU!

We hope you had an awesome day filled with lots of cake and great big birthday wishes!

"Hey... Did you happen to see the most beautiful girls in the world??"

2009-04-09T22:01:00.001-07:00

Snugglebug Bowtique Spring/Summer 2009 Collection

2009-04-04T17:36:00.000-07:00

I've just updated my 'Snugglebug Bowtique' website with all of the new Spring and Summer bows. I think they turned out super cute. Check 'em out here.

Let's Party!

2009-03-19T21:08:00.000-07:00

I'm a total slacker, but better late than never, RIGHT? My sister, Lynette, is having a MODBE Party, and I am going to have TONS of new bows and goodies from my Snugglebug Bowtique. I'm too lazy... I mean too busy making bows... to actually download pictures and make an invitation and all that good stuff, so here's the link to my sister Crystal's blog. She's totally on top of things, and she has posted all of the info about the party. I must have missed the 'organized-on-the-ball' gene. Anyway, come to the party. There will be lots of good food (courtesy of Nettie Skettie), and we are going to be giving away some fun prizes. Good food, stimulating conversation, and free stuff!!!!! See ya there!!!!!!! (Click HERE for more info)

Ice, Ice Baby

2009-03-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Lynette and her boys, and me and my girls went to Disney on Ice at the Energy Solutions Arena. Neeley thought we were going to Disneyland... close enough. Our seats were awesome, the kids excited, and the treats yummy (and expensive, but what the heck...) Lynette forgot her camera, so now I get to post pictures of her cute boys. It was such a fun time. Thanks, Nettie, for inviting us and helping me with my girls.

An Added Bonus

2009-03-07T12:51:00.000-08:00

OK, Mom. Since you enjoyed the last picture so much, I thought I would post another for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy.

"Yook at my new Ho-met"

2009-03-07T08:36:00.000-08:00

...otherwise known as a helmet.

Favorite Photo Friday

2009-03-06T12:17:00.000-08:00

No, it wasn't cold at our house. Yes, (Grandmas) the furnace was on. This is just a picture of Neeley being .... well, Neeley. She dressed herself in this lil' ensemble so that she could ride her horse. And the face she is pulling... an added bonus. I'm sure that in another 10 or 12 years this picture will be the perfect blackmail.. um, I mean bargaining tool. Wahahahahaha!

Don't ya wanna...

2009-03-06T12:00:00.000-08:00

Kiss her... smell her... squeeze her... love her...???

The camera comes out, and this girl is a ham. It just makes me smile... more like giggle outloud. Back off all you baby-hungry mama's - she's all mine! (when I can wrestle her away from her doting daddy.)

Dear Dr. Ludlow...

2009-03-05T16:57:00.001-08:00

OK Nat Lud, this one's for you. Since we live a million miles away from the world famous Dr. Ludlow (well, maybe not world famous, but darn close! I've heard rave reviews!), we go to one of the locals... Dr. Terry. Good ol' Dr. Terry runs his office out of his basement. Now I know what you're thinking. And no, he's not some backwoods-tie-your-tooth-to-the-doorknob kind of dentist *cue banjos* ... he's seriously awesome. He just hasn't updated the office decor (or his own personal style) since sometime in the early 70's. I think the gold chair is soothing... and the cabinets groovy... and his porkchop sideburns.... seriously, I don't know what to say except don't be a hater. I'm sure they'll come back in style someday. Oh yeah, and his wife Barbara (he lovingly calls her 'Bob'), has been his assistant for the last 30 years.

This was Neeley's first trip to the dentist and she was such a big girl!

Overheard...

2009-03-01T07:40:00.001-08:00

Brylen: *sitting there looking cute and slobbery, watching Neeley's every move*

Neeley: *said with way too much exuberance and about 2 inches from her sister's face* "What are we waiting for? Let's go to Grandma's, kid!"

Melissa needs...

2009-02-28T13:30:00.000-08:00

I found this highly entertaining....try it! It's fun... way better than a magic eight ball or daily horoscope.

Here’s how it works: GOOGLE “[your first name] needs” (i.e. ' Melissa needs') and share the first 10 results. That's it: it is that simple. But be honest! These are actual quotes from the top ten results. Tag the person who tagged you, and pass it on...

1. Melissa needs... to take a break. (Thank you, google, you read my mind exactly.)
2. Melissa needs... to board the blob ship that is hovering overhead. (No kidding! I can't make this stuff up! Google it yourself if you don't believe me!)
3. Melissa needs... a home.
4. Melissa needs... lots of guidance. (no comment.)
5. Melissa needs... hydration after the walk. (yeah, the long walk from the couch to the fridge.)
6. Melissa needs... a roof. (A home and a roof? Is somebody trying to tell me something?)
7. Melissa needs... her meds. (Again, no comment.)
8. Melissa needs... help. (This is getting scarey!)
9. Melissa needs... flakes. (Corn flakes? snow flakes? I don't get it.)
10. Melissa needs... maintenance manuals. (ummm... no thanks... I have a husband thankyouverymuch)

Okay, now it's your turn. Copy, paste, fill in. Not too hard. Consider yourself tagged.

50 and Fabulous!

2009-02-27T15:23:00.000-08:00

I just want to post a few pictures of my sweet mom's 5oth Birthday Party. (Sorry it's so late, her birthday was on February 15th.)

WARNING: I might get all reminiscent and weepy and mushy, but I can't help it.

The Birthday Girl

Dustin and Jaxon

Emma, Aunt Mary Jo, Uncle Rodney, Mom, and Russell

Uncle Rodney and Jase

Brylen Jean

Nick and Kendra

Neeley and Me

Uncle Jeff, Grandpa Swede, Granny Annie, and Mom

Dad and Mom

So I have been trying to write a little tribute to my mom to tell her how much I love her and how much she means to me. Instead of a beautifully written letter, it has went something like this: type, type, type, cry, delete, sniff, sniff, type, cry, cry, sob, delete, sniff, wipe my snotty nose, type and delete some more... well , you get the picture.

I think of my mom, and all of the love and emotion I have for her just spills out my eyes... and runny nose, I guess. That's a whole lotta love, Momma!

Mom, I want to tell you how much I love you. 'Thank you' and 'I love you' seem so inadequate. The best tribute I can give, is to try to become the kind of mother you are and always have been. I love you and hope that I'm just as fabulous when I'm 50!

Family Outing

2009-02-26T22:14:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year... time for the ever-exciting Hunting Expos... yes, plural... there's more than one hunting expo. Why? I have no idea. But you can bet my husband will be there in all of his camo glory! But this year, I opted out of the camo-wearing, horn-lovin', gun slingin' extravaganza. I went shopping instead. But anyway, we headed to the big city (Salt Lake) on a Friday. We decided to take Neeley Bug to The Living Planet Aquarium in Sandy. It was fun, I guess. I expected it to be lots bigger, but Neeley loved it, so that's all that matters, right?

We were all in our pj's, and Brian decided he needed a snack. He wore this lil' ensemble to go to the front desk to get change for the vending machines. I'm not sure they'll be wearing this on the Paris Runways. Oh yeah, and Neeley went with him wearing her cupcake pajamas and her crazy blonde hair looking like she just stuck her finger in a light socket. They were quite the pair.

Little Miss No Pants. As soon as we got in the room, she took her skirt off and got comfy on the couch. I guess her fancy cowboy boots weren't bugging her? Silly girl. Wonder where she gets her fashion sense? (See above pictures of her dad.)

And here' my sweet Brylen Jean. She was pretty tuckered out from all of the excitement. Awwwww... isn't she precious?

Pocket Edward

2009-02-26T11:31:00.000-08:00

I know, I know. My sweet mother has been waiting for me to post some pictures of my beautiful girls and hilarious hubby, but I have to post this little gem-of-a-blog for everyone to enjoy. There was a link on "Lee Lou's Blogs" so a huge thank you to Lee Lou!!! WARNING: YOU HAVE TO HAVE A WARPED SENSE OF HUMOR AND A LOVE OF THE 'TWILIGHT' SERIES TO APPRECIATE THIS BLOG. THEREFORE, I QUALIFY! ( and you too, Rachel Ann) http://laurensbite.blogspot.com/ I am also going to put a link on my side bar... and become an official 'laurensbite' follower. I can't stop laughing... and relating... and wishing I had my very own, cutsie-wootsie, witto pocket Edward of my very own.

You gotta try this!

2009-02-22T09:34:00.000-08:00

This is for all my brainy, mathy sisters... and everyone else with an obsessive competitive nature. Oh yeah, and for my dad who thinks that everybody's eyes are on 'crooked'... and Nils - the master drafter. You seriously gotta try this: http://woodgears.ca/eyeball/index.html

My best score is 2.98... What's yours?

Pay it Forward...

2009-02-19T17:40:00.000-08:00

I won, and you can too! Pay it forward!

The Rules...
1. Be one of the first three bloggers to leave a comment on this post, which entitles you to a handmade item from me.

2. Winners, you must post this challenge on your blog, meaning that you will Pay It Forward, creating a handmade gift for the first THREE bloggers who leave a comment on YOUR post about this giveaway.

3. The gift that you send to your friends can be from any price range and you have 365 days to make/ship your item. This means you should be willing to maintain your blog at least until you receive your gift and have shipped your gifts. And, remember: It's the Spirit and the thought that counts!

4. When you receive your gift, please feel free to blog about it, sharing appropriate Linky Love!If you are not one of the Top Three Commenters on this post, you can still play along. Start your own Pay It Forward game/link/chain, and encourage your blogging friends to do the same!

*Leave a comment even if you're not one of the top three, and who knows...maybe you'll get something anyway. :) Thanks Rachel!!!

Picture Perfect

2009-02-11T11:50:00.000-08:00

I was cleaning up the kitchen after lunch, and walked into the front room to find both girls asleep. Ahhhhhhh, it doesn't get any better than that.

Neeley must have given her sister a toy to help her fall asleep. She's such a big helper.

'She's the most precious baby, ever I've seen."

2009-02-11T11:27:00.000-08:00

Here's my noisy girl. Princess B likes to get a little bit rowdy late at night. The video is dark because my front room was dark... it was 10:30 pm and I was hoping she would fall asleep in her swing. (yeah right, joke's on me!) Neeley just watched this video and said, "She's the most precious baby, ever I've seen." - which translates to: "the most most precious baby I've ever seen." Yep, Neeley Bug, I would have to agree.

Count Your Blessings....

2009-01-31T19:39:00.000-08:00

I somehow came across this blog yesterday, and the Whitt family (not to be confused with the Wild Whitts) has been on my mind ever since. I don't know what to say, except I'm sure they could use all of our prayers. Check out their blog if you have a few minutes, but make sure you have a box of Kleenex close by.

'Old McDonald had a ... Babysitter??'

2009-01-24T10:29:00.001-08:00

Here's a cute video of Brylen and her new babysitter. This little activity thingy (I don't know what else to call it) can buy me at least 30 minutes of uninterupted cleaning time... if I can stop watching how cute it is when she gets so excited and 'talks' to the animals. Thank you Fisher-Price!

Birthdays and Bowling

2009-01-24T09:02:00.000-08:00

Last night was our nephew Jacob's 5th Birthday Party at the bowling alley. This was Neeley's first time bowling, and she was hilarious. She would roll the ball so slow that it would take FOREVER to make it to the end of the lane. Sometimes it was so slow that it would hit a pin, the pin would wobble a little bit, but it wouldn't fall over. If she actually knocked some pins down, she would do the longest, funniest victory dance. It involved jumping, woo-hoo-ing, and a lot of booty shakin'!

And here's what happens when you don't want to wait your turn and you have a mean mom that won't let you knock all the older boys out of the way to budge to the front of the line:

I felt bad for about half a second. Then I realized I was missing out on a great photo-op and starting snapping pictures. Like I said, I'm such a mean mom.

Here's the Birthday Boy making a wish and blowing out the candles.

I distracted Grandma Annie by taking a picture of her perfect technique. Hey... I'll do whatever it takes when I'm losing. (yes, I really was the loser!)

The crazy party gang

Happy Birthday Jacob!

My Mondays and Tuesdays are full, but I've got an opening on Wednesday.

2009-01-21T10:53:00.000-08:00

Being a stay at home mom comes with a few perks, besides the obvious 'I get to stay home and take care of my two beautiful daughters' reason. You can stay in your pajamas until noon (or 1:00 or 2:00 or 3:00 pm), you don't have to wear makeup everyday if you don't want, it's an 'all-you-can-eat buffet' of mac-n-cheese, chicken nuggets, and fruit snacks, and you can search the dish network program guide all day long and set all your favorite programs to record.

Yep, I'll admit that I'm turning into a TV junkie. When I was still getting up with Brylen in the middle of the night, I could watch bits and pieces of the shows on my DVR. Now that the little sweetie sleeps all night, I have to try to watch all of my programs during the day. That's not working out so hot since my TV is either permanently set to the Disney Channel or Noggin.

My Monday's are pretty full; 'Bromance', 'The City', and 'Daddy's Girls' on MTV. And my ultimate fave show, 'Medium' will be back in a couple of weeks. I'm not sure how it's going to fit into my DVR schedule, but I'm sure I'll make it work.

Then on Tuesdays I've already had a few conflicts; 'The Biggest Loser', 'American Idol', and 'The Real Housewives of Orange County' (gotta love those fake, gold-digging B's). Oh, such a hard life, I know.

Other than that, the rest of my week is pretty open. And Brian thinks that I play on the computer all day...

My Blue-Eyed Babes

2009-01-20T20:51:00.001-08:00

Here's my blue-eyed babes 'Hangin' Out'. They are precious! My little Brylen is getting so cute and chubby. Check out her pollywog belly... isn't that the cutest thing you've ever seen?! And I think Neeley is making her "Yo Gabba Gabba" funny face. I could just kiss their little cheeks off!

In Honor of Inauguration Day...

2009-01-20T15:28:00.000-08:00

So I am hoping that this post won't offend anyone. I think it's just plain funny. For Christmas, Santa brought Neeley the "Loving Family" Doll House. Good ol' Santa must have been having a bad shopping day at Toys R Us (and Santa's sister was even helping out), because Neeley ended up with the dark skinned 'Loving Family'.

Dale and Annie came over Christmas morning to watch Neeley wake up, and Grandpa Dale commented that her doll house was so big it looked like the White House. Then I told him that it even came with the new "First Family" -- the Obama's.

Just ask Neeley ... the mom doll's name is Michelle, and the dad is Obama. It is so stinkin' funny! And she doesn't forget! Just today I could hear her saying, "Obama, where did you go? You need to come and eat your dinner."

The best part of the story is not one kid that has played with her doll house has even noticed that there is anything different about the family. It just goes to show how innocent and unprejudiced little children are. They don't notice color of skin ... they just see a dad, mom, and babies. It's too bad that adults make such a big deal out of it. I guess this is one of the many lessons we can learn from our kids.

Here's a picture of Neeley laying her "Loving Family Twins" down to play with Brylen. So Funny! She even put little blankets on them.

A little ray of sunshine ...

2009-01-12T07:46:00.000-08:00

I love pictures... especially if they make my heart happy. I had to share these ones. I just can't help but smile.

Oh, sweet Brylen Jean! (Neeley NEVER calls her just 'Brylen. It's ALWAYS 'Brylen Jean.) She still just eats, poops, sleeps and smiles. She's only 2 1/2 months old, and for the last two nights she has slept for nine hours straight (don't be a hater)! Couldn't you just kiss her cheeks off? And her sweet baby breath smells like heaven! (*SIGH*)

And then there's the artist, Neeley Ann. The other night I was a little too sucked into TV. She kept saying, "Mom... Mom... Mommy.. Yook (look) Mom... Mommy... I drew a duck." I finally looked over and she had really drawn a duck. I had to hurry and grab my camera so that I could get a picture. I wish she would draw on paper so that I could save her 'masterpieces'.

First of all, I know what you are all thinking. Yes ... Neeley is 2 1/2 years old AND YES... I still put her in the high chair to eat most of the time. It's so much cleaner and she can't escape. I know... I know... I'll make her sit in her booster soon enough. But it still melts my heart when she falls asleep in her high chair. The little tornado looks so peaceful.

Our Lil' Genius

2009-01-07T19:38:00.001-08:00

Now I know that every mother thinks her kid is the smartest, but I'm not just being a delusional (or proud) Mom when I tell you that our little Neeley Bug is stinkin' smart. She's been able to sing her ABC's (forwards and backwards) pretty much since she was in the womb, and I think we'll just skip Preschool and Elementary and start her right in Jr. High... maybe even High School. he,he.

OK... OK... I'll stop. In all the honesty, Neeley is smart, and she loves learning new things. She especially loves to draw and color. She recognizes most of her letters, and can even write a few. We've been working on her name the past couple of days, and she's getting pretty good. Well... I guess it's downright awesome for a two-and-a-half-year-old.

She still has a hard time remembering what order the letters go, but she can write them without any help. I just wanted to cry tonight when I realized how big she's getting.

Here she is practicing her N's. She just learned how to write them last night.

"Maybe she's born with it..."

2009-01-06T14:16:00.000-08:00

No, it's not Maybelline. I was just admiring how pretty my girls eyelashes are. They got them from their daddy - so dark and thick it looks like they are wearing mascara. And they look even darker since they both have such blue eyes. It's not fair to those of us that work so hard to make it look like we even have eyelashes. Beautiful ... but not fair ... sheesh ...

2008 ... Down in Flames

2009-01-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

Here's how we started out our New Year ....

New Year's Day, Brian went out in the garage to rearrange vehicles (our yard always looks like a used car lot), to find that the Ford had caught on fire. He had the block heater plugged in, and I guess it somehow caught fire and burned and melted the entire front of the truck.

You can kind of see all of the melted rubber hanging off what's left of the bumper.

Here's the scorched front license plate in a pile of ash.

It truly is a miracle that the entire garage didn't go up in flames. We would have lost the four-wheeler, the Ranger, the truck, and probably our fifth-wheel parked four or five feet away, not to mention all the tools, gas cans, and other crap that's in there. It seriously could have exploded or caught our house on fire.

These pictures are just showing how close the trailer sits to the garage.

And I saved the best pictures for last: Brian's Baby getting loaded onto the tow truck. I guess it's kind of funny (if you have a warped sense of humor) ... not that it caught fire, just that it had to be hauled off on a tow truck.

I really am so thankful that we didn't lose the entire truck or garage. I guess 2009 can only get better from here .... RIGHT????

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

2008-12-28T12:27:00.000-08:00

These are just a few pictures I took on Christmas day of all the snow. I thought the roof was going to cave in on the good, ol' suburban (or the 'burban' as Neeley calls it).

Christmas Morning

2008-12-28T11:14:00.000-08:00

So I guess I wasn't such a good girl ... I only took three or four pictures on Christmas morning. BUT I did take video, so one out of two isn't bad.

We had a such a wonderful Christmas. For Christmas Eve, we went to Brian's Aunt Pat and Uncle Scott's house with all of their kids and grandkids. As always, there was tons of great food! Their granddaughters are all 'tweens' and they all play so cute with Neeley! She absolutely loves them!

We woke up Christmas morning to tons of snow. Brian's mom and dad came over so that they could be here when Neeley woke up. She really didn't know what to think at first, but it didn't take long for her to figure it all out! It took us all morning to open presents, but we had so much fun. Sweet Brylen was just happy to be there.

Brian threatened that I better not 'blog' this picture of him, but I seriously couldn't resist! I don't think he checks out my blog very often, so I can probably get away with it. I think he's afraid that everyone will find out what a silly daddy he is. So for the record, he's a 'cool' dad, not silly ;). And for all you ladies that want my sexy hubby ... get in line! He had Neeley's princess necklace around his head ... I tried to get him to put the earrings on, too. He is truly the best daddy in the world! He is from a family of only boys, so all of this girly stuff is new to him, but he's such a good sport. He simply adores his baby girls!

And I can't write about Christmas without bragging about Annie's awesome Christmas dinner. We had prime rib, lobster, crab legs, baked potatoes, salad, broccolli , rolls, and all sorts of other good stuff. For dessert, we had chocolate ice cream cake from Cold Stone. DELICIOUS! And once again, I forgot my camera, so try to picture it in your head. Or maybe you shouldn't ... you might start drooling!

I hope that everybody's Christmas was as wonderful as ours!

I must have been a good girl ...

2008-12-27T09:08:00.000-08:00

So how spoiled am I? Maybe I was just a good girl this year, because Brian totally surprised me with the best Christmas presents! Oh, yeah, and my baby girls, too! I didn't even know they were under the tree. The girls (wink) got me a journey diamond necklace. It is absolutely gorgeous! Brian is really good at picking out jewelry. He picked out my wedding ring all by himself!

And Brian got me a new pair of Oakley sunglasses. He is always making fun of my cheap-o, fall apart sunglasses (I'm a mom, you know!), and I would never spend that kind of money on sunglasses for myself, so it was an awesome gift. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them!

We really had a great Christmas. I still need to load pictures onto my computer, so I will post later.

My Christmas Wish

2008-12-24T09:37:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, our neighbor's little 22-month old boy passed away unexpectedly. I have been so overwhelmed with such sadness for their family - they also lost their young grandpa to leukemia right before Thanksgiving. I cannot even imagine losing a child, let alone a few days before Christmas. I honestly cannot quit thinking of them.
So yesterday, I was running around trying to get a few last minute things done. I had made a batch of fudge and accidentally added milk chocolate chips, so I hurried to make another batch. I had the new fudge poured into the little tins for my neighbors and I left it on the table to cool. I was busy doing other things, and I walked into the kitchen just in time to find Neeley poking holes into the fudge with a pen cap and then licking it off. I was fuming. But instead of being mad at the little stinker, I just had to hug her and laugh because today another mom didn't have her baby to be mad at.
This Christmas I am going to hold my babies tight and enjoy every second. I'm not going to worry about the little messes or stress out that I didn't take my neighbors fudge. I'm going to let Neeley eat the candy out of her stocking before breakfast tomorrow, and if she wants to only open one present and play with it all day, I'm going to let her. I'm going to hold Brylen all day long, even while she sleeps, and not worry that I'm spoiling her. I know that I never get even one second back... my babies will never be this small again. I'm so thankful for these precious lives that Heavenly Father has placed in our tender care. They are certainly a handful at times, but they bring so much love, happiness and joy!
So my wish for everyone this Christmas is to enjoy every moment with your loved ones! Be thankful for your kids' messes, whining and tantrums, but especially their hugs and kisses. I hope that everyone has a Merry Christmas!

Paging Dr. Robertson... Paging Dr. Robertson...

2008-12-23T11:28:00.000-08:00

I just had to post these hilarious pictures of Neeley playing 'Doctor' at Grandma and Grandpa Holm's house. Grandma has the coolest 'Doctor Kit'. My little doctor couldn't see a patient without those fancy Schmancy blue doctor glasses (I got the giggles every time she looked at me). I had to have my temperature taken at least a hundred times, and I got a few dozen shots in my leg. I think LIL' Miss Smarty Pants has been to the pediatrician one too many times!

The Letter Game

2008-12-19T06:27:00.000-08:00

Top Ten - Letter P Game time!!!!

I thought that this might be fun to play. All you have to do is make a list of ten of your favorite things. But there is a little catch. Everything on the list has to start with a specific letter of the Alphabet. That letter is randomly assigned by the blogger who you are playing with! I was assigned the letter 'P' by my sister Rachel at The Shelley's. For the record, she tried assigning me the letter 'X'. . . um. . . xylophone, duh. SISTERS!

(I cannot believe I am posting this picture. It was taken the day before Brylen was born.)

1. PREGNANCY ... Now I know I was a complainer, but being pregnant was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I loved to feel my babies kick and move. It is truly life's greatest miracle! Which leads to ...

2. PRETTY PRINCESSES .... They are absolutely gorgeous! My princesses are my reason for living! I simply cannot get enough of these two babies!

3. PINK ... I've always liked pink, but it wasn't my favorite color. Now that I have two daughters I LOVE the color pink (by default). My whole life is pink! Even my sweet husband lives in a pink world! Light pink, hot pink, pepto pink. PINK, PINK, PINK!!!

4. PARENTS ... "I, Melissa, being born of goodly parents ..." Where would I be without my parents? Where would I be without Brian's parents? I'm at a loss for words. I am so blessed to have such wonderful parents and in-laws. I'm so thankful for their examples. . . so grateful for their advice.

5. PRESENTS ... It's Christmas, what can I say? I love getting presents, but I love giving them even more! I guess it's just one of those things that happens when you grow up.

6. PHONE ... My blackberry Pearl to be exact. Brian surprised me with it last Christmas, and it's my link to the outside world ... when I can find the darn thing!

7. PEPPERMINT M&M's ... I know I've already devoted an entire post to these little delights, but the peppermint m&m season is almost over! I'm actually eating them as I type. Oh, could life get any better?

8. POLARIS RANGER ... Even though I don't ride in the Ranger as often as I should, I do love it. It's something we can do as a family, and a fun way Brian can spend time with his girls. We seatbelted Neeley's carseat right in when she was tiny! Brian even has tracks for it so that we can take it in the snow. Super fun!

9. PRAYER ... Don't be too surprised. I might not get down on my knees or pray aloud as often as I should, but I say little silent prayers all day long. I have a gazillion things to be thankful for!

10. POOPY DIAPERS, PINK PRINCESSES, PONIES, PAMPERS, PLAYTIME, PEACE & QUIET, PLAYHOUSE DISNEY, PUKE, PRETTY SMILES, POTTIES, PICKY EATERS, PIG STY, PILES OF LAUNDRY, PAJAMAS ... all of the things that remind me that I'm doing what I love the best - being a mommy!

Now it's your turn. Let me know if you want to play, & I'll assign you a letter.

Still in the Christmas Spirit

2008-12-07T20:35:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to post a few pictures of Brian and Neeley Bug hanging Christmas lights. Five years ago, I would have never believed that one day my dear hubby would hang lights on the house without having to be nagged! AMAZING! Like I've said a million times before, he will do anything to keep our baby girls happy. . . and he tries to keep me happy too! ;)

Breakfast with Santa

2008-12-06T15:27:00.000-08:00

Now I'll bet most of you don't know, but Helper is officially 'Utah's Christmas Town', officially. They really do have a lot of Christmas festivities (click here to find out more). This morning, we went to 'Breakfast with Santa'. Uncle Jared, Aunt Jenny, Jadon, Jacob, and Uncle Russell, Aunt Stephy, Emma, and Gauge were all there with us. The city council puts on a super yummy breakfast for the family, and then the kids can sit on Santa's lap.

This was Neeley's first year sitting on Santa's lap, and I think it went OK. You could tell she was petrified, and she wouldn't talk to Santa, but she didn't cry. So I guess we'll call that a success. She was a lot more relaxed when Santa was holding Brylen, too, and I think it helped that she watched her cousins Jadon and Jacob go first. My girls are so lucky so have cousins here!

Tonight is the second night of the 'Light Parade'. We are lucky enough to have friends that live right on Helper Main Street, so we are going to their house to watch the parade. (That way we can keep Brylen warm inside.) AND, there will be fireworks after the parade. What a fun way to kick off the holiday season!!

Smilen' Brylen

2008-12-04T12:49:00.000-08:00

(I added this picture for my sisters. See... she didn't grow that much in a week?)

This little smile just melts my heart (sigh)! Isn't she precious? I could just eat her with a little sugar sprinkled on top!! I love my girls so much!

Matching PJs

2008-12-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

Just a couple cute pics of my girls in their matching jammies. Oh yeah, and lovin' Neeley's bedhead and sleepy eyes.

The Grinch

2008-12-03T21:57:00.000-08:00

I'm married to the GRINCH . . . or at least that's what I thought. Brian says he doesn't like Christmas. He doesn't like the trees, the lights, the music, the shopping. But there is one thing (or should I say two?) he LOVES ... his girls. He will do anything for his babies including putting up the Christmas tree and decorations. He brought the tree out of storage, set it up and 'fluffed' it - a chore I don't enjoy. He even helped decorate until it was done. Now he is going to put our lights up outside. I guess our little 'Cindy Lou Who' melted my Grinch's heart.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-12-03T21:18:00.000-08:00

SUPER CHEESE!!! Mom and her sweet girls

Neeley Bug

Cousin Troy, Uncle Jared, Brian, and Uncle Nils (holding Brylen)

Neeley and Jacob playing air hockey (all night long!)

(Not a good family picture, but I'm posting it anyway)

We had Thanksgiving with the Robertson's this year at the Slovenian home. I love Thanksgiving! I love family get-togethers, the delicious and plentiful FOOD, and just taking the time to realize how blessed we are. I am so thankful for my sweet, little family. Our two beautiful daughters have brought more love and happiness than we could have ever imagined. How blessed I am!!!

Mmmmmmm.....

2008-12-01T19:58:00.000-08:00

I love the holidays - - the tree... the lights... the music... shopping... and best of all --(dum, dum, dum) PEPPERMINT M&M's! Who doesn't love Peppermint M&M's? I mean, peppermint chocolate in a hard candy shell. Oh yeah, and the colors - bright green and red!!!! Absolute candy perfection!

After Halloween, when Wal-mart starts putting out the Christmas goods, I immediately look for the peppermint m&m's. I love 'em. I can eat myself stupid on peppermint m&m's. And even worse, Brian and Neeley love them almost as much as I do. An entire bag can disappear in a matter of minutes around this place. Watch your fingers boys and girls because you might lose one (or two) during the m&m feeding frenzy!

So if you haven't experienced this little holiday delight - go and buy yourself a bag (or two) and ENJOY!!

Our Beautiful Princesses

2008-11-09T08:03:00.000-08:00

Here's our latest pictures from Kiddie Kandids. I think they turned out super cute - especially the pictures of the girls together. It helps that they are both so cute anyway!

Trick or Treat

2008-11-04T10:25:00.000-08:00

Definitely a Halloween treat . . . my darling, little cat and a sweet, pink poodle. I have to admit - I can't get enough of these two precious girls!

Now Taking Appointments

2008-11-04T10:08:00.000-08:00

Here's the rest of the pictures of Grandpa getting his hair done. What I failed to mention is that Neeley had to do his hair three or four times a day, and good' ol Grandpa was a patient customer. Next time I think I'll break out the make-up and rollers.

Proud Grandparents

2008-11-03T08:55:00.000-08:00

Grandpa Russell

Grandma DeAnn

Grandpa Dale

Grandma Annie

I just couldn't resist some pictures of the happy Grandma's and Grandpa's .

Neeley's Beauty Shop

2008-11-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

So Neeley has been a bit obsessed with brushing and combing everyone's hair lately. Lucky for me (and anyone else who has had the 'pleasure' of having Neeley comb their hair), Grandpa Holm was around to take the torture. Neeley kept running back and forth to the bathroom to get her comb wet because I wouldn't let her have the spray bottle. Such a mean mom, I know. Grandpa was stylin' by the time she was done!

Welcome Brylen Jean!

2008-10-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

Here she is!

Brylen Jean Robertson

7 lbs. 15 oz.

20 1/2 inches

I'm going to be pregnant FOREVER!!!!!!

2008-10-15T19:23:00.000-07:00

So here I sit on my big, fat butt still pregnant! We spent most of yesterday at the hospital, and my doctor ended up sending us home. Again. I even had the IV's in my arm and everything. I had another non-stress test and blood tests and we're both still doing OK. I guess the good thing that came out of it was that we had an ultrasound. Little Brylen looks just like her Daddy and big sister Neeley! I thought it was hilarious that even on a black and white ultrasound we could tell that she looks just like them. AND her legs are super long. Wonder who she gets that from??

Brylen's birthday is going to be next Tuesday, October 21st. We are supposed to be the first surgery of the morning. I'm nervous, but I can't wait to meet our next little princess. So for the next few days, I guess I'll just sit here, be uncomfortable, try not to feel sorry for myself, and try to enjoy the last moments of this pregnancy.

Maybe Baby - Take 2

2008-10-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

Here's the scoop on the baby situation - - I just went to the dr. tonight, and we have to be back at the hospital in the morning. He say's there's a 90% chance we are going to have a baby tomorrow, and a 10% chance he's going to make me wait a few more days. He says he has to do what's best for the baby . . which I agree. BUT I'm going to be crying buckets if he sends us home. I'll try to keep everyone updated!

Baby Update

2008-10-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

So Baby Brylen won't be making her debut this week. I went to my appointment yesterday, and my doctor sent me right down to the hospital for some blood work and monitoring. He even went as far as to say (and I quote), "I'm going to send you to the hospital, and maybe we'll have a baby by tomorrow night." A little advice to the dear doc . . . never, and I mean never give a hormonal, fat, swollen, tired pregnant woman false hope! Anyway, we went down to Mountain View Hospital in Payson at about 3:30 pm and didn't get to leave until 8:30 pm. My wonderful mother-in-law drove over and took Neeley to McDonald's. We even had her bring our bags 'just in case'. Sorry, Annie!
So here I sit, still fat and prego and emotional. I go again on Monday, so maybe next week. Patience never was my virtue.

Maybe Baby?

2008-10-07T05:53:00.000-07:00

I have a doctor's appointment this afternoon, and I'm hoping that my doc will tell me we are going to have a baby sometime soon . . . By 'soon' I mean today. I don't sleep at night - am I just exhausted, uncomfortable or nervous?? Whatever it is, I am ready to meet baby Brylen. Wish me luck!

Our "Big" Girl

2008-10-07T05:29:00.000-07:00

My sister, Crystal (or should I call her 'St. Crystal'), drove all the way from Colorado Springs to help me out for a week. It was WONDERFUL having her and Kendra here! We did a few 'get-ready-for-baby' things, but mostly we played.

She took some darling pictures of Emma, Gauge, and Neeley at the Helper Parkway. I think they turned out adorable. My little Neeley isn't quite so 'little' anymore. Doesn't she look like a 'big girl'?! Thanks Aunt Crystal!!!

Welcome Home Daddy!

2008-10-04T18:30:00.000-07:00

FINALLY! Brian made it home safe a week ago. The rest of his company stayed in Texas, but a handful of guys came home a little bit early. He was getting nervous that he wasn't going to be here when the baby was born, not to mention his spike elk hunt started yesterday. I guess whatever it takes! It was a LONG 3 1/2 weeks, and I am so happy he is home. This is a truck that took them into the swamps in Louisiana to fix the power lines.

They had to ride a ferry back and forth everyday to a "man camp" where they were staying. The man camp was a little self-sufficient town where they slept and ate. They even had people there doing their laundry.

While they were in the man camp, they had to sleep in refrigerated semi-trailers filled with bunks stacked three high. Can you imagine my seven-foot-tall husband sleeping in the middle bunk? Any bunk for that matter? He barely fits in our Cali. King bed!!

This is a picture of his crew working on a steel pole. They had to pound stakes into the pole so that they could climb it. Sometimes it's better that I don't know exactly 'what' he does while he's at work.

I wish I would have taken a picture of Neeley when she saw her daddy pull up in front of our house. She was peeking out the window yelling, "There's my Daddy! That's my Daddy, momma!" It was the sweetest thing ever! We're just so glad he's home!

Worn Out

2008-09-14T16:47:00.000-07:00

Neeley has become quite the little night owl. She doesn't like taking naps anymore, so you would think that she would be exhausted come bed time . . . I am! Anyway, yesterday she played all day with Jadon and Jacob, and I knew she was getting tired. So I bathed her ( I had to practically wrestle her to get her into her pajamas), and she insisted on sitting in her 'Dora' chair and watching TV. That lasted about one second and she was out. Doesn't she look so sweet?

Just Us Girls . . . .

2008-09-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

For those of you that don't know, Brian has been in Louisiana for almost two weeks now bringing the power back to those that lost it due to Hurricane Gustav. So far he's been in LaFayette, Baton Rouge, and Marksville. He says that the destruction is like nothing he's ever seen before - and 'Gustav' didn't do nearly as much damage as past hurricanes. Anyway, today he's on his way to Houston to start rebuilding the power lines there.

It feels like he's been gone forever!!!! I'm not really very good at being a 'single' mom and being pregnant, and Neeley is totally missing her Daddy! Thank heavens it's only temporary! Hopefully he will be back before Brylen decides to make her debut! I'm almost 34 weeks, so the countdown is on!

I am so blessed to be surrounded by family here. My in-laws totally take care of me (and I mean TOTALLY!!), and I have Russell, Steph, and Nilsy here to help . . . not to mention all of my wonderful friends! I honestly don't know what I would do if I was an 'army wife' or a real 'single mom'. Life is good, and I am so thankful for all that I have - especially my little Neeley Bug! She is such a little firecracker and always keeping me on my toes.

So for now it's just us girls, and we're counting the days until Brian makes it home safely.

Check it out!!!

2008-09-14T12:15:00.001-07:00

I think I finally have my website up and running! Check it out! Feel free to put a link on your own blog, and email all of your friends and tell them about it. We're still adding stuff, so check back often!

The Next American Idol!

2008-08-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

Our little singer is back! When I want Neeley to sing one of her songs for someone, she refuses, but today she put on quite the concert. As you can see, she got all crazy and pulled her piggies out before she could sing her songs. Then she sang quite a medley of her favorites. I think we have a future star on our hands! Look out American Idol!! {It's kind of a fuzzy video - I took it with my regular camera.}

Brian's Archery Buck

2008-08-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you all know that the world revolves around the 'hunts' at the Robertson house. Brian has been stressed out about when I'm going to have the baby because we need to work it out around the deer hunt (duh!). I've been stressed out because I'm worried he will want to be out hunting while I'm having the baby (go figure?). He wanted the doc to give us a date for the C-section two months ago so that we can plan accordingly. You know, there are three general deer seasons and a million elk seasons. If he had his way, he would hunt every one of them.

Anyway, it looks like he will be there when our new little one arrives. Hallelujah!!! He shot this big buck this morning. You can't really see, but it's a 4 x 6. It has two little cheaters on it's right side. Way to go, Brian! I'm happy for you, Neeley's happy, and I'm sure your unborn daughter will be happy when you are actually there to witness her birth!

Our Little Neeley Bug

2008-08-17T13:12:00.001-07:00

Sportin' Mommy's big ol' honkin' bra.

Beautiful Snow White

Last night after her bath, she came into the kitchen wearing her shoes and sunglasses (upside down) and said, "I'm ready!" Ready for what? I guess a girl's always gotta be on her toes!

Here's our silly girl watching TV while laying in her doll carrier.

REMEMBER WHEN...

2008-08-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

Anyone who wants to play...This is Fun!

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember--it can be funny, weird, awkward, random, etc.!
2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you

"Where are you?"

2008-08-06T13:19:00.000-07:00

Who can resist this sweet, little munchkin voice? (BTW - she's looking for a crayon!?) Don't forget to turn the music off before you hit play.