Peeking Through the Bush's

Newborn Photoshoot

2012-01-30T13:46:00.000-08:00

Evelynn

Eliza

Big Brother Brandon

2012-01-30T13:34:00.000-08:00

This pic is from the first time he met the babies.

In this picture Brandon is playing the violin and singing twinkle little star to the twins. He is such a charismatic and fun loving character!

Big Brother Ammon

2012-01-30T13:28:00.001-08:00

What a loving and happy helper!

RSV

2012-01-30T12:21:00.000-08:00

First off Eleanor had been sick for weeks and had finally gotten better. At this point the twins had been coughing for a week or so and I was treating them with essential oils and suctioning. One night Eliza seemed like her lips were turning purple and hse was not breathing well. I changed her diaper and pulled her out of her clothes and it livened her up to where she regained color. Then later that night it happened again, this time Jeff noticed. So we called Brother Probst over to give both girls a blessing with Jeff.

After that I took Eliza to the ER. As I was walking in she was turning blue around the lips again. It turned out she had RSV and Pneumonia. She was transfered in a ambulance to Children's medical center in downtown. They hooked her up to oxygen and a fluid IV.

Eliza with Daddy

Eliza with Mommy

Eliza all hooked up

Since RSV is highly contagious and the twins sleep right next to each other in the bassinet Jeff took Evelynn to the Dr the next morning and she was later admitted to the same hospital but in an non-ICU area. After a day she was moved to the NICU in a room right next to her sister because she got worse and needed heated flow oxygen.

Evelynn in her non-ICU room

Evelynn with Daddy

Evelynn all hooked up

Ammon and Brandon visiting the twins. Grammie watched them and Ellie in Houston for the week the girls were in the hospital. (Thanks a bunch!)

In the end Eliza was in the hospital 7 days and Evelynn 6. The Dr's were amazing and really show they care about the babies. We learned a lot as parents about preventative care as far as respiratory care goes. Too bad we didn't know all this when we had our first out of five children! Now we will use it as the sickly winter goes on.

Trampoline Fun

2012-01-30T12:11:00.001-08:00

Christmas

2012-01-30T11:43:00.000-08:00

Jeff grew up getting up super early for Christmas were as I grew up having to wait until at least eight or nine am. Since the babies were awake to eat at 5am we went ahead and celebrated then. Ammon was already awake in anticipation but we had to wake Brandon and Ellie.
Everyone loved opening their stockings and playing with all the fun presents. It was a great morning.

Diapers galore in the twins' stockings

Ellie loves her baby doll!

After presents we had a yummy breakfast casserole and EVERYONE ate it and LOVED it! This was a great Christmas present to me if you know the boys well you know why I say this. (BTW I have made this casserole now about 5 times since then).

Growing Up

2012-01-30T11:32:00.000-08:00

Ammon had a story to write over Christmas break. After we had done the idea web and first draft I suggested he type the final draft. He felt so grown up and loved the entire hour it took him to type!

Pre- Christmas

2012-01-30T11:13:00.000-08:00

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care... all seven of them!

What precious gifts!

Ammon the Cub Scout

2012-01-30T09:29:00.000-08:00

Ammon absolutely loves being a scout! Now if I could just find the time to get the patches sewn on.

Ellie Walking

2012-01-30T08:04:00.000-08:00

We just love how Ellie will stand up not holding onto anything. Enjoy!

Sneak Peak at the Twins Newborn Photoshoot

2011-12-04T08:24:00.001-08:00

Introducing Evelynn and Eliza "The Twins"

2011-12-04T07:58:00.000-08:00

Evelynn

Eliza

Prego Update

2011-11-12T04:33:00.000-08:00

Some sweet friends threw me a baby shower. I always feel strange being the center of attention but I realized this is probably the last time I ever will be so I tried to enjoy it. We were so blessed with gifts of diapers and other essentials. We have been given over 2,000 diapers! With the twins and Ellie that will probably last 2 and 1/2 months. Crazy. Thank you to everyone who was so generous! We sure appreciate it!

He I am at 36 1/2 weeks. Jeff says this pic does not do my huge belly justice and that I am actually bigger. Thanks honey.... heehee. All my pregnancy clothes are too small except for two skirts and two pair of stretch pants. I almost bought a 30$ pair of pants the other day but couldn't bring myself to do it to only wear for a few weeks. Jeff says I should have and then I would have gone into labor the next day.
Everything is still going well. I am already dialated to a 3 and 50% effaced. I have contractions but they are not regular and only sometimes really painful. The nights are very hard to sleep since with every contraction I am trying to decide if it was more intense than the last one and how long it has been and etc etc... You know how it goes. I actually have never gone into labor on my own, even with having had three kids so I am a bit nerve racked. (I do not want to go so far and have the babies at home or in the car). Well there you go. Send up some prayers for me to endure!

2011-11-12T04:20:00.000-08:00

A friend brought over a healthy Halloween snack. As I shut the door when she left Ammon said "why would she bring a healthy treat?" Like it was the strangest thing on earth. But after tasting a juicy fresh tangerine he was in love and so thankful she brought them. He then said to me "I want you to spend ALL your money on all the tangerines in the world so I can eat them all up...they are sooo good!"

Eleanor enjoying Brandon's time out a lot more than he was!

Walking with her push toy! She will get so mad and scream if something gets in her way. No one but us sees that side of her very often but she does have a little feisty personality if things are not how she wants it!

Halloween weekend

2011-11-12T04:11:00.000-08:00

The kids at the Tri ward Trunk or Treat

Don't mind the huge pregnant lady haha

The Harts came for the weekend. It was a whirlwind of fun! We love these guys.

What are we up to?

2011-11-12T03:58:00.000-08:00

Ammon is getting better at reading. He has to read 20 mins a day and Brandon sometimes enjoys sitting and listening to him. Animal books are still his favorite but last week he discovered the Goosebump series. Even though it is above his level he is excited to read them (with help)

Brandon looking so grown up and nice for church one day

Eleanor ( 15 mths) with her favorite person.....Dadadad. She can now say dada and bub bye. I am working on getting her to sign but she really hates it and lets out a very defiant growl or scream when I try to get her to do it or even do it myself. She is not walking on her own yet but loves her two push toys and can even turn them around while standing holding on with one hand. She will get it but is just very cautious.

The boys and Jeff working on a car for the ward pine wood derby. Their car got second in the race with no rules. They attached the motor of a pull back toy tot he wood frame and it worked really well until the wheels fell off.

32 Weeks pregnant & New church building in Wylie

2011-10-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I will be 32 weeks pregnant tomorrow! I never dreamed I would make it this far with twins with how my last pregnancy went. The babies should be 4 pounds each by now and are so happy and healthy.
I am so thankful for my innumerable blessings.
This last Sunday we got some Wonderful news. We will have a new church building in Wylie soon! Construction will start in December and is scheduled to be complete the following December! And the best news of all is that it will be only five minutes from our house!!!!!!!!!!!

Twins Update

2011-09-27T22:31:00.000-07:00

Hi All........... I just wanted to update everyone on how my pregnancy is going. I am 30 weeks along now. I read in a twin book that a singleton pregnancy at full term, is carrying the same amount of weight as a mother carrying twins has at 30 weeks. (I know I posted this on facebook...sorry to repeat). And boy do I feel it! All the aches and pains of full term will be my closest friends for the next 8 weeks. Heehee
But as far as health goes I really can't complain. I have had no issues whatsoever this time around. My blood pressure is doing great. I am so greatful everything is going so well. Even though this pregnancy was not planned Jeff and I fell very strongly that these girls really wanted to come to earth now and my health testifies this was Heavenly Father's plan for our family.
Both babies are about 3 pounds in weight and around the 20%. My Dr. is very cautious so we get a great in depth ultrasound every two weeks.
Although I feel like I am laying down all the time I am so lucky to be this far along and not be on bed rest. As of yet there are no signs that I will deliver early so pray with us that my sanity can hold out until Thanksgiving when they are due!

Wylie High Volleyball

2011-09-14T11:39:00.000-07:00

Some of the girls in our ward play HS volleyball. Jeff also teaches them in seminary. So we went to cheer them on. The boys loved making the posters and Eleanor loved watching the game because she loves balls!

Sisters! Wouldn't that be fun to be on the same team as your sister and to have such a good relationship that you enjoy it! What great examples!

Behavior at School

2011-09-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

**************** Ranting Warning*****************
Yesterday when I picked my boys up from school I found out they both had gotten bad marks on their daily agendas and almost had "color changes." To some parents this may be no big deal.....every kid has bad days right? Well I believe this is a prime teaching moment in a child's life.
So both my boys got to sit down and write an I'm sorry for my behavior note to their teachers. Which really means I got to sit down and make sure they did it correctly. And so flys by the next hour with crying and moaning on Ammon's part and calm slow breathing on my part. Brandon actually enjoyed it (well mostly).
When we were almost finished Ammon asked "Do I still get to go to cub scouts tomorrow?" To which I replied "yes...this is your punishment because you need to be responsible for your actions. I am not going to take away something that has nothing to do with what went wrong." I could see some understanding behind his eyes and I think he learned something important. Other kids in his class get "locked" (according to Ammon) in their rooms with no toys, can't go out and play, and can't do certain activities if they get a color change and yet the behavior still continues to happen.
Parents let take some quality time to teach real lessons when situations like this come up. It's not fun but it's important!!!

Ammon's Baptism

2011-09-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from Ammon's baptism. It was a very special and fun day for our family. We appreciate all those family and friends who sacrificed to come. We know traveling with young kids is not ideal. I know Ammon felt the love of those around him. The talks and the special musical number were beautiful and really brought in the spirit. Thanks Again!

How come it is so difficult to get a good family picture?

Sunday Fun

2011-09-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Daddy is so fun to play with on Sunday afternoons!

Sorry no pics of Brandon here

Bath Time

2011-09-14T10:56:00.000-07:00

Ellie loves the bath! When you are the one bathing her be prepared to be soaked! Splashing is so much fun!
Also .....isn't the pony tail so cute? she screams to have them put in but looks so adorable with them.

It's Great to Be Eight!

2011-09-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

Pure Joy!

It was very special to watch Ammon open up his first set of scriptures. He was overjoyed! He loved having his own hymnbook and journal also. Ammon has a very special and innate love of the gospel.

Can't forget the Pokemon!

Pokemon Party

2011-09-14T10:31:00.000-07:00

Ammon turned eight this month. He really wanted a Pokemon party so I caved and let him. I am not much into letting my boys go crazy over characters but it was worth it to see him so happy.

The party included drawing Pokemon, shoot the Pokemon cups with a Nerf gun game, a pinata, dinner, and presents. It was an eight year old boys dream party. All the boys had a blast!

Of course Pokemon related presents!

Fusing two loves: Drawing and Pokemon!

First day of School

2011-09-14T10:24:00.000-07:00

Brandon ~ Kindergarten ~ Mrs. Henard

Ammon ~ Second Grade ~ Mrs. Jones

Happy Birthday Ellie!

2011-09-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

These are a little out of order, but hey at least I got them posted. Thats a big deal for me. Enjoy!

Love those bright blue eyes!

Eleanor turned one last month. She had a great time opening presents and eating chocolate cake. The boys had fun helping her celebrate too!

Eleanor at age one:
~Smiley and happy most of the time
~Crawls up on all fours and pulls up sometimes
~Loves to eat baby food pouches...but macaroni and cheese is her favorite food!
~Can sign more and wave bye bye
~Loves to dance by shaking her head back and forth and waving her hands. She absolutely loves music!
~Loves balls and loves to play catch.

Munchkins

2011-08-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

Brandon and Ammon had a great time participating in the Wizard of Oz play with Wylie Acting Group for Children this past summer. It's a lot of hard work, but worth the effort as a parent, when you see your child so happy and proud of themselves!

Happy Birthday Eleanor!

2011-08-03T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hi all...I know it has been longer than forever but you all know my reasons for being a lazy but! HeeHee
Eleanor is one toady. This picture is from our trip to Nauvoo when we dressed Ellie up as a pioneer. Isn't she adorable? She is so fun and happy. Everyone in our family just adores her!
Things she loves to do:
-Play catch with anything (especially the big beach ball that is three times her size)
-Eat real food (it is hard to get her to drink more than two bottles a day now)
-Scream at the top of her lungs in a high pitched voice. (When she is happy or sad)
-Play peek-a-boo
-Be with her big brothers in their room. She will lay at their door and knock on it if they shut her out.
-Smile at everyone she meets
-Melt your heart with one gaze of her beautiful blue eyes.

Heart Health on Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T08:12:00.000-08:00

http://www.achangeofheartkc.org/resources/tool-kits.aspx

Go to this website for information on Heart Health and to get your free pedometer and information.

Christmas Ski Trip- Ski School

2011-02-11T12:35:00.000-08:00

Ammon and Brandon getting ready for ski school

Megan at ski school

Eleanor at 4 Months

2011-02-11T12:21:00.000-08:00

At 4 months old Eleanor is happy and easygoing. She does not like to be on her tummy, but she does love to ow wand aww at her daddy.

Our Family's Christmas Tradition

2011-02-11T12:14:00.000-08:00

Making Gingerbread Houses

Ammon said to Brandon
"You know what the best part is?
Tearing it down and eating it when we are all done!"

On The Way Home

2011-02-11T12:05:00.000-08:00

Eleanor's first time on an airplane

LA Views and Temple

2011-02-11T11:52:00.001-08:00

Beautiful LA

Lights at the LA Temple

The LA visitors center is absolutely fabulous.......we could have stayed for hours!

Grandpa and Eleanor

Thanksgiving Update

2011-02-11T11:29:00.001-08:00

Yes I am this behind on my bloggin............

Just some highlights from our trip to CA for Thanksgiving

Fun with Scott's Family

Grandma and Eleanor

Cousins

Steph and Jaycee

Wrestling

New Family Photos..............Enjoy!

2010-12-01T06:48:00.000-08:00

Eleanor at 2 Months Old

2010-11-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

Silly Smile!

Sleeping

My Latest Hobby

2010-11-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been having fun plating up our dinners. I usually just do Jeff's but Ammon asked me to make his "beautiful" the other night. Here is what it looked like. Yum.........Salsa Chicken!
I think when I am done having babies I would love to go to culinary school!

Thumb Sucker

2010-11-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

Sometimes Eleanor enjoys sucking her thumb. Take a look

Happy Halloween

2010-11-04T10:12:00.000-07:00

Seminary Fun

2010-11-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

Put on the whole armor of God ......Doctrine and Covenants 27.

Camping

2010-10-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

Eleanor had her first camping experience last weekend. She was a baby doll about it. We brought the pack n' play and she slept just as well as at home....all through the night!
It was the annual ward camp out and chill cook off. It was a lot of fun. The boys run around getting as dirty as possible while Jeff and I chat and sit around the fire. My kids still won't eat smores and I vow not to buy the ingredients next camp out, although I think I said that last year too.
Every year I give the boys light necklaces to wear so I can see where they are in the dark and every year they give them away to all their friends so it ends up that I see lights running around everywhere. I tried to tell them not to give them out this year but they did anyways. I guess that is what I get for teaching my children to be generous. HeeHee

Ammon's First Grade School Picture

2010-10-22T13:34:00.001-07:00

What a handsome skinny boy.
I case you are wondering...surprisingly he does not get teased about his teeth at all. Since I did as a child (and it was horribly traumatic) I have already talked to an orthodontist about his teeth. He has to wait until the two baby teeth next to the top teeth fall out before we can get any kind of braces. Why are some kids teased and other not?

Random Stuff

2010-10-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

Our friends the authors

Check out their motivational children's book

http://www.amazon.com/Fox-Mountain-Parable-Scott-Simson/dp/0615381502/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287756329&sr=8-1-catcorr

2 months old

Mom and Daughter

2010-10-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

My sister in law had this picture of me and Eleanor on her blog. I love it so I swiped it to share with you all. It is from her blessing day.

Costume Party Fun!

2010-10-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

ARG Mattie! This is the first time that Jeff has ever agreed to dress up for Halloween. He says you have to go all out or not dress up at all. It was really fun playing the part.

Playing minute to win it games

The gang

Professional Theater Pics

2010-09-29T09:24:00.001-07:00

Ammon as Cheetah in the play The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe

Asland's Followers

Wylie Acting Group for Children

2010-09-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

This weekend Ammon participated in The play the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe. He was an Asland Follower (Cheetah) and had about three lines. He absolutely loves acting. I think he loves being part a group that does something together. By the end of each production he is always excited for the next one. This time around he will not be acting in the winter play. Our family needs a little down time and since it will be during the holidays I'm sure down time will be scarce.

Blessing Day Pics

2010-09-27T09:39:00.000-07:00

Family Photos

2010-09-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

....Everyone....

Jeff Bush's

Jon Bush's

Justin Bush's

Original Bush's

Mattress Ride

2010-09-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

If you don't have time or money to go to a theme Park .....
make up your own rides at home!!!! They are just as fun!

(Ammon has a cheetah face from his theater performance ...pics to come later)

Happy 7th Birthday Ammon!

2010-09-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

For Ammon's seventh birthday we had a fun water day party planned. It was going to be so much fun...and then ...it rained! So we improvised and played a super fun Curious George board game instead. It was and hour and a half of kids going crazy and bouncing off the walls but Ammon had a great time so it was worth it. We love you Ammon!

2010-09-27T09:02:00.000-07:00

Thumb or Pacifier? Only time will tell.

Brandon loves to wash Eleanor's bottles...what a great help to mommy!

....Tired...Tired...Tired....

Fun with Baby Eleanor

2010-09-27T08:50:00.000-07:00

Big Brother Ammon!

Cuddles

Ellie's favorite spot on the couch

Precious!

Brandon is always watching over his little sister.
He loves to help by giving her the pacifier when she cries.

Seminary Set Up

2010-09-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

Seminary has been going well. Jeff is a great teacher... he is so good at testifying of truths and bringing the spirit into the room. Here is a picture of how we squeeze 25+ students into one small room. Jeff stands in the entryway to teach, and he uses an artist easel as his desk and white board holder.

This picture of Brandon is a great example of how we ALL have been feeling lately with the new schedule. He was conked out on the couch at only 4:30 in the afternoon.

One awesome blessing from this new schedule is having time in the mornings to read scriptures together as a family. It is so much more beneficial when we are not rushed to get the kids in bed or exhausted from the days activities.

September Dino Kid

2010-09-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

Ammon was recognized as his class's Dino Kid of the month for September. Sorry I couldn't get a good picture from far away. Thanks for your great behavior Ammon!

Delivery Story

2010-08-29T15:56:00.000-07:00

Delivery Details:
We went in to be induced at 5;30 am on Tuesday August 3rd. I did not sleep all night because I was so anxious. The hardest part of the entire day was getting the epidural! It took 45 minutes of poking and prodding. It was so painful, but after it was in the rest was easy.
By 11:50 I was dilated to a nine and the nurse started to call the Doctor to come. I turned onto my side and then the nurse decided to check me again and it was a good thing she did.....Ellie's head was already coming out! The nurse was starting to freak about a bit that the Dr was not there yet and so I started laughing at her. She said "don't laugh...or you will laugh out this baby!". The Dr got there and only 1/2 a push later Ellie was born at 11:53am. She was perfectly healthy and everything was great.
One thing I love about having babies is that Jeff stays with me in the hospital. It is such a special time that I will always cherish. These pics are spot on because they show just how tired we both were!

Eleanor Is Here!

2010-08-03T19:39:00.000-07:00

August 3,2010 11:53am
7 pounds 3 ounces
18 and 1/2 inches long
.....More to come later.....

She is Almost Here!

2010-08-02T20:54:00.000-07:00

My Dr. called today and asked if we could push up the inducement for tomorrow morning at 5am. I was definitely more than willing too! So Jeff and I have both been super anxious today...I have been constantly cleaning and up doing stuff. Even Ammon's family prayer included thanks for baby sister coming in the morning. It was adorable!
So say a prayer for us that all goes well.

The Waiting Game

2010-07-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

So...six days to go (7:30 am on Aug 5th) until I am induced and our baby girl gets to join our earthly family. My Dr. kept saying I might have to deliver early due to my high blood pressure, but for some strange reason it is getting better and I am no longer on bed rest. Which is a great thing but it's hard to be patient when you were expecting to have a new baby already. The baby measures around 8.6 to nine pounds so she will be my biggest yet.
The boys are getting excited to have sister come. Yesterday Ammon was even counting on his fingers how many days left until she comes. Jeff is going crazy saying I need to stop sitting here typing and go for a walk so she will come today. He is excited too!
Say a prayer of patience for all of us please!

Operation Christmas Child Project (Pack a Shoe Box)

2010-07-20T08:29:00.000-07:00

Hi all......
Since being on bed rest I spend a lot of time searching the web. Today I came across this Project

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/Pack_A_Shoe_Box/

Also I came across a blog video in which the lady teaches you how to fill these boxes for way cheep by searching for deals all year round. Watch her here ...

http://moneysavingmom.com/2010/07/operation-christmas-child-start-filling-your-boxes-now.html

I am definitely going to have my family participate in this project this year and challenge all you to do the same.

Family Picture

2010-07-19T14:43:00.001-07:00

It is so hard to get a good family picture with two boys always being silly or not interested in posing...but here is one of the best and one of the silliest. I am now 36.5 weeks pregnant.

Tyler's Baptism

2010-07-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

Ty got baptized this past weekend. We were so excited that my blood pressure was stable enough for us go to it. It was such an amazing experience seeing Andy use the priesthood to bless the life of one of his children! I was so overcome with a testimony strengthening spirit testifying to me that......The church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day saints is true and the priesthood is the way Heavenly Father has his children perform His work here on the earth. I am so grateful Heavenly Father gave us the priesthood to strengthen our families! Jeff and I are both very excited to have Ammon choose to be baptized next year.

Ammon,Tyler, and Brandon .... Best Buds

Ty's G-pa Whicker, Andy, Ty's G-pa Hart, Jeff, and Ty

Hart Family

Balloon Sword fighting in the rain

New Callings for the Both of Us

2010-07-12T15:08:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I have both received new callings. He has been called to be ....Seminary teacher to the 14-18 year old youth in our church. And I have been called to be the Activity Days leader for the 8-12 year old girls. We are both extremely excited for these new opportunities to learn and serve others.
Jeff was a seminary teacher once five years ago for just 4 months. He really loves teaching and is even more excited because this year he gets to teach the Doctrine and Covenants and church history. We have been talking and planning what he wants to do and how he wants to run the class up into the wee hours of the night sometimes. It most likely will be held in our house so we have been deciding how we want to arrange the small room we have available for it. Jeff's biggest challenge will be trying to be energetic at 5:40 in the morning...since he is a night owl at heart.
I am really looking forward to being activity days leader....but I don't get to jump into it until after I have the baby. When I was Primary counselor I got to teach a few of the lessons for the girls and I had a blast so I am really looking forward to it!

Wish us luck!

Fun at Lake Travis

2010-07-12T14:15:00.000-07:00

For the fourth of July we got together at the lake house. (I stayed in the house resting). Everyone else had a blast out on the boat and stuff. One of the funnest stories was of Brandon. He jumped out of the tube...following Ammon.. he starts doggy paddling and saying "I can't swim, can someone help me, I don't know how to swim." He kept saying this over and over all the while he is swimming to the dock. He wasn't panicked but just kept saying it. I wish I could have seen it. I am cracking up laughing just writing about it! Thanks Gram and Papa for a great time!

The boys loved this new three person tube!!!! They could have rode on it all day!

They also loved being with A.J. and cousin Kylee.

Silly A.J.

My Tummy at 34 weeks

2010-07-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

My big tummy at 34 weeks pregnant with baby cookie

I was happy to be getting fancied up just to get out of the house for a doctors appointment.
I was two weeks on bed rest already.

Baby Shower

2010-07-12T13:51:00.000-07:00

One of my Best Friends from college drove up her entire family to Dallas just to throw me a baby shower! It made me feel so special and loved. Thank You Tara!

The price is right game with baby items.

Look at this spread...Isn't it adorable? Tara is so good at crafty/cutesy things!

Ammon's Kindergarten Musical

2010-07-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Ammon loves to be on stage and was all smiles!

Ammon with his teacher Mrs. Kelly

This video is a little shaky sorry.

Wylie 1st Ward luau #2 The Festivities

2010-07-12T13:19:00.001-07:00

We were having so much fun we didn't stop to take pictures of all the festivities until it was almost over. But some of the fun, besides eating and eating, included: Hayrides to view lake Lavon and back, volleyball and water balloons, awesome tree swings, horseshoe pits that the younger kids played in as sandboxes (heehee), and just pure mingling and relaxing!!!!

Jeff and I both agreed this was the most successful party he ever put together! So many people came and had fun! On the flip side... Jeff's poor body could not handle all the excitement on the only 2 hours of sleep he had and he got heat exhaustion pretty bad. He was throwing up and everything. He still cringes if you suggest eating something coconut or Hawaiian. He will get over it someday or he will be missing out on the best pio popo (spelling?) bread ever!
Thanks everyone for all the help putting this together!!!!!

Wylie 1st Ward luau #1 Preparing

2010-07-12T12:30:00.001-07:00

As Elders Quorum President Jeff has had the best time putting together parties . The latest one was a Lual, were they buried a full size pig. Thanks to some great Samoan members of the quorum it was the best party ever! The guys got together at 1am to prepare everything since the pig needed to cook for 6 hours and there was a lot to be done.

Building the fire to get lava rocks at something like 400 degrees

Using the backhoe...Yea Haw

Oiling and Salting the pig

Layers of the pit: 16 Hot lava rocks, ~30 newspapers, lots of burlap, ~20 sq ft of carpet.

The unveiling...Yum Yum

Whirly Ball with the Bush Clan

2010-07-12T12:19:00.000-07:00

(LIttle Kylee is adorable!)

Jeff's family came to visit us in May. We celebrated three birthdays and had a blast playing whirly ball. It is a game that is a mix between lacrosse and basketball using go carts to get around.

Everyone was all smiles and laughter!

Thanks for the fun get together everyone! When should we do it again?

Soccer Misshaps - Jeff's First Real Injury

2010-07-12T12:01:00.000-07:00

"He's got the ball...about to make a goal...opponents come running in defense...there is a trip and a fall....and then....limping to the bleachers...."

Yep, Jeff sprained his left ankle playing soccer. He said it would have been worth it if he had made the shot and is disappointed he didn't. It was a level three sprain which the DR said is sometimes worse than a break. We R.I.C.E.ed it for weeks and Jeff has been going to physical therapy ever since it happened back in May. What a bummer!
BTW that ice was so cold. I put my foot in it and only lasted 3 minutes before Jeff told me to get out because my squeals were bothering him. HeeHee

Mothers Day

2010-07-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

These pictures truly capture the happiness I had on Mothers Day. The boys were so excited to give me my gift, which was GIRL baby clothes for baby cookie.
The boys also had fun making my mothers day card with Jeff. They covered the card in pink girly stickers. We are all excited to have a baby girl join our family soon. You can see the card in the picture below.

PRECIOUS!

Why I havn't blogged in months

2010-07-12T10:13:00.000-07:00

Hi All....as some of you may know I have been on bed rest now for three weeks. My blood pressure spiked over 100 on the bottom number.... so my Dr admitted me to the hospital for 24 hours in June. Of course it was the day before Ammon's theater performance and I had to relinquish my concessions stand duties etc. I was so sad. I am now at home and am supposed to be laying down as much as possible and not taking care of anyone else. It's pretty hard to see everything that needs to be done and just lay there. I know it will be for the best for baby cookie though so I am grinning and bearing it. On the positive side I have had plenty of time to read my scriptures and have just under half left to go.
Thank you to all of you who have signed up to watch my boys or bring us meals!!!!!!! We greatly appreciate it! The boys are having a blast spendin time with you and your kids.
The Dr. does not want me to go past 39 weeks so my new due date is August 4th. Just about three weeks to go.....pray for me to have patience!

If You're Happy and You Know it....

2010-04-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

Things have been pretty crazy around here lately....just with the routine things of life.
Ammon has been loving soccer and has just started practice for his first ever theater production. Check it out here:
http://74.52.121.245/~wagweb/index.htm
I have been helping found the group and can't wait to get more involved once school is over.
Brandon had been testing us a bit lately with some tantrums and obedience issues ...but so goes growing up. On a positive note he is almost completely potty efficient! He has only had two accidents in the past week and has been in underwear the whole time. Yippy!!!! out of pull ups before the baby comes.
I am doing great! I got the go ahead to exercise again and have been loving it. I sure do look funny on the weight machines with my big tummy though. I am still teaching four days a week and only have one more month left to enjoy these rambunctious little ones.
Jeff is the same old same old.....work...elders quorum....Tv.....family life...
Life is great for us ....Hope the same is true of all of you!

Our New Little "Rascal"

2010-04-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

Introducing......."Rascal".......our first family pet!

The young women in our ward held an auction to raise funds for girls camp. Among the treasures for sale was this adorable little Lion Mained bunny rabbit. When I realized he was only auctioning for 15 dollars I snagged him up without even counseling with Jeff. (Opps! Heehee)
He is a great family pet because he is quiet, small, almost shed free, and very easy to care for. The most difficult thing to deal with has been his chewing on things. He loves to chew on cables, and the first place he bolts to when we let him free is over to the computer. Now we have a baby gate there!
It is great fun to watch as he jumps around in the air in pure happiness. We all love him even though Jeff doesn't like to admit it!

Visiting Our favorite Place Again...

2010-04-09T21:01:00.000-07:00

Chimps
Meerkats

Crazy boys

Flamingos

Sleeping Chimps

Feeding time! Raw steak...Yummm!

Precious Moments

2010-04-09T20:46:00.000-07:00

Jeff teaching Ammon how to tie a big boy tie for the first time
This one melts my heart!

Celebrating Jeff's 31st!

2010-04-09T20:26:00.000-07:00

Nothing will do but an American Cookie Company cookie for Jeff!
He really enjoys them!

We had a pretty laid back birthday for Jeff this year. The boys and I made him a scavenger hunt for his presents and then we all enjoyed his big cookie. We didn't have enough candles so we used 25 regular ones and Ammon's 6 from his last birthday. Jeff said "That's one big flame."

We love you Jeff and are so lucky to have you in our family....we are thankful you were born!

Fun with the Neigbor Kids

2010-03-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

The love to play hide and seek and hide in the back of truck beds
Brandon always gets chossen as the monster. I wonder why? Hee hee

Races

Soccer

2010-03-28T12:35:00.000-07:00

This is Ammon's first year playing soccer. He truly loves it. He is a great team player and is always smiling while he plays.
At first he was not very aggressive and would stand about 10 feet away from the crowd of kids around the ball. But now after three games he is understanding to get in there and steel it away. He seems to like defending the goal because he runs over there a lot if it is not covered.

The Falcons

Brandon Turns 4 Years Old

2010-03-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Brandon...WE love you SOOOOO MUCH!Brandon picked out these cupcakes at the store and both he and Ammon thoroughly enjoyed them!

Ummmm so good!

We celebrated as a family at Chucky Cheese...the boys love it there...and as you can see Brandon really loves Chucky!

Thanks for my favorite food Gram...Cheetos!

Yes nerf guns!

Breathing Treatments

2010-03-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

During his first year of life Brandon was sick with a lot of things like pneumonia, bronchitis, etc. Ever since we have had to give him breathing treatments everyday to prevent these bigger sicknesses. For the first 6 months or so he hated this so much we had to literally pin him down between our legs, but now he is used to it. What a cute dinosaur!

Wrestling

2010-03-28T12:05:00.000-07:00

After playing in the snow outside.....the fun continues with wrestling. (notice all the snow clothes in a pile in the background? That is something I would hate if I lived in this weather all the time!)

More Snow Fun

2010-03-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

Playing in the snow was so much fun that the boys begged Jeff to go out a second time. I don't think they had to beg long. Jeff loved it. The boys loved using the sandpails and shovels. They were out there forever. Fun times! What state does this look like?

Snowpails?

Major Snow in Dallas

2010-03-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

Snowball Fighting

This was the second time it snowed this season. This day it was so bad that schools were cancelled and everyone was outside playing. Luckily we have snow gear since we go skiing sometimes. Having the right gear makes the fun last longer! The smile says it all!

"Got Ya"

mini snowman

A Lost Art

2010-03-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

What ever happened to kids MAKING their own valentines day cards and mailboxes?

I absolutely do not like the cheep valentines cards that have caracters on them that are sold in the stores. There is not even enough room for a child to write his name on it!

Every year I force my kids to make their own cards. The have to do every step, and it sometimes takes us weeks. It is such great practice in writing and art mediums! This year the boys LOVED painting mailboxes for the cards.

Stuffed Friends

2010-03-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

Brandon has embraced Ammon's love of animals. He fixates on a different stuffed animal for a few weeks at a time. The have to go everywhere with us! At the dinner table, in the car, and of course they sleep with him at night. This week it was big cheetah. A few of his other favorites are baby cheetah, baby elephant, and duck. I think he is pretty darling, but the whining meow sound he makes when he pretends to talk for the animals is quite annoying!

More Fun with the Bush Fam

2010-03-24T15:51:00.000-07:00

Ammon playing Zingo with Gram and A.J.
Brandon building

Dixie

Fireworks Fun

2010-03-24T15:40:00.000-07:00

For New Year Eve we celebrated with Gram, Papa, and A.J. in Houston. We had tons of fun with fireworks. Jeff's face lit up with happiness because he is such a pyro. The boys were getting into it too...and a few times I was worried they were going to light each other on fire with the sparklers.

P.D.A.

2010-03-24T15:32:00.000-07:00

Public Display of Affection

Before they were married Tara and Andy were always kissing but since it has been a rarity. We are always teasing them and batting them on to kiss. here is the proof. We made them hold the pose extra long!!! HeeHee

Rainy San Antonio Trip

2010-03-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

After our fun a Sea World we explored the river walk of San Antonio. I love the beautiful architecture and the rich history of the Alamo, but it's not so much fun exploring in the cold rain. The familias

"BOOM!"

Sea World with the Harts

2010-03-05T08:44:00.000-08:00

Feeding the dolphins
Aquarium.....fish feeding time!

WOW!! The Shows were great!

Standing in line in the 40 degree weather was not so great!

Weeee

Friends Forever!

Christmas Day Fun For Jeff

2010-03-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

Here is Jeff playing with his "new" saw. ("new" because I found it at a garage sale). Some of his up and coming projects are to make the boys two single beds into bunk beds, and to add more shelf space to our kitchen pantry.

Christmas Video

2010-03-05T08:19:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2009 Post #2

2010-02-24T11:28:00.000-08:00

New Scriptures! Yes!!!!

Jeff's favorite thing about Christmas.....Putting everything together!!

Jeff wrapped two cans of fruit filling. When I opened them up I was like "great some filling?" He thought for sure I would know that he got me a waffle maker after I opened them. Would you have known? I loved his laughter at the whole situation. The strawberry topping was fabulous on the fresh made waffles!!!!

Christmas 2009 Post #1

2010-02-24T11:02:00.000-08:00

Ammon's ornament from school

Seeing the snow on Christmas morning was wonderful. The boys looked outside but really just wanted to get to their presents!

May the force be with you

Legos!!! Our Favorite!

Hungry Hippos game and ring pops!

"Pregnant Brain"

2009-12-16T13:21:00.000-08:00

I was on the phone with my niece in California the other day. She was asking me about some recipe of mine and my brain wasn't working right. In a off the wall comment I said "sorry I have pregnant brain!" We hung up and a few minutes later she called right back. What do you mean you have pregnant brain? Are you pregnant?
So I guess the news is out!!!

I Am Pregnant!!

Sorry for all of you who are reading this and would have rather been told with a phone call....I still love you I am just too busy sleeping! HeeeHeeeee

I am just about 2 month along and the baby should be due in early August. Everything is going well and I am not sick or anything just extremely tired!!!

The boys are very excited and yes we are all openly hoping for a girl but will still love a boy if he comes along.

Reading Picture Books

2009-11-09T12:53:00.000-08:00

Every morning when I take Ammon to school Brandon used to cry and be so sad. One of the ways we cheered him up was to have Jeff read him one of his favorite books while I went. Well now it is a part of our everyday routine. We have also added it at 6pm when Jeff gets home from work (if I am still making diner and I need the boys out of my hair). It has really helped Brandon to embrace "reading". He loves books now. He has some that are his favorites and will ask to have them read over and over and over again. Here are the top three:

3. There's an Alligator Under my bed by Mercer Mayer

2. 10 Little Rubber Ducks by Eric Carle

1. Five Little Monkeys Wash the Car by Eileen Christelow