.

6 More Days

2012-02-15T20:32:00.001-08:00

Yeah...So I'm just sittin here thinking that in 6 MORE DAYS Millie Kaye will be here! Can you believe it? I mean she can come any time before then (it acutally would be preferred if she did...hint hint Millie) but no matter what she will be here Tuesday thanks to induction. President's Holiday is providing the perfect 4 day weekend for us to have her cuz Marc's schooling but so far she is on her own schedule. I have never made it this far in a pregnancy (only my second) and it is really pushing my patience. I was so unprepared with Braxton and now that I am overly prepared...nothin. Nothin but false labor and a missing MP. I have realized though, I am a much better mom when I can actually get on the ground and play with my son and heck, even get off the floor! haha

This is me trying to get off the stinkin floor. . . not happening.I decided I should have a couple pictures of me pregnant before I have Miss Millie. Um Yeah I AM BIG! ha
Braxton is in the background getting up to the coffee table. He cracks me up! haha

I never got to document these puppies when I was prego with Brax... Aren't they lovely. S-W-O-L-L-E-N! It's funny when you can put your finger prints in your skin and it doesn't go away. I am so happy though that being swollen is just now happening. Being prego in the winter is the bomb! The freezing cold is actually good for something.

I have honestly loved this pregnancy. Other than going basically to my due date, I have enjoyed it. I can't complain, but I do every once in a while. haha no but really I am so grateful that Millie is healthy and I am guessing pretty big, especially compared to my little itty bitty Brax. We are so excited to have another baby and we can't wait to meet our sweet little girl. I think Braxton will absolutely be the best big brother and will just love her! So, everyone out there reading this (probably not many haha) positive thoughts that this little girl will come tomorrow or Friday. I really want her to have a good 4 day weekend to spend with her daddy :)

Valentine's Day: Phase 1 & Phase 2

2012-02-15T09:03:00.000-08:00

Phase One:

Our Valentine's Day was extended this year! Marc had a pretty rough school schedule with a test everyday this week so we decided to go out to dinner last weekend (hoping there wouldn't be any waiting). Well, lets just say it turned out to be pretty funny because our first thought was Olive Garden (my fav) and when we got there it was an hour long wait for just the three of us! So, we had to move on and the only place that sounded good besides that was breakfast! haha I absolutely LOVE breakfast. We didn't want to travel 20 minutes to the nearest IHOP so I remembered Village Inn. The last time I went there was for a basketball tournament in high school and it was so good. Marc had never been there so we decided to go. . . we pull up and the parking lot had 3 cars in it. That automatically shot up red flags for Marc. He was a little skeptical and the three cars belonged to none other than old people. haha I felt so bad but I told him that it really was good so after a good laugh and being the youngest couple in the resteraunt we got one of the best meals for 15 bucks (including a piece of cheese cake)! :)

Braxton's second time in the high chair...he did good. He is just like his dad though! He was a little skeptical too. (notice that there are no people in the back ground ha)
Marc approves! haha I don't know how soon we will be going back. ;)
Phase 2:

Since we went out over the weekend I decided to plan a chill at home celebration. All we needed was a little pepsi and peanut M&Ms, a little present for Millie and Brax (yeah I really thought Millie would be here to help celebrate...she might be a little stubborn ha) and a heart shaped pizza for dinner! It was perfect! :)

Braxton and dad playing! Marc's homemade card on the wall. haha
All I wanted was a walk, hoping that my water would break, and foot rub for my huge swollen feet...We went for a walk around our complex and low and behold we found a herd of deer on our hillside! haha They were just all laying down. There were about 20 and there was even a 4 point buck! Too bad it wasn't hunting season. ;) After our walk we had brownies and ice cream, got into our pjs and I got Breaking Dawn from the Red Box. Before you judge, I already saw the movie in the theaters but Marc never got to see it. So, I got it and I was able to laugh (without getting horrible looks) with Marc at all the corny scenes, so basically the whole movie.
Braxton was exhausted after all the celebrating and went to bed at 9:30! That was huge! Marc studied and I just lounged on the couch watching the silly movie! It was great. Just a simple chill Valentines. Hope everyone had a great one!

Now that Valentine's Day is over...Millie can come!!! Now please! :)

Growing Up

2012-02-06T18:18:00.000-08:00

As I sit here having contractions about every 6 min, just lost my MP (mucous plug) and hoping and praying to go to the hospital within the next 24 hours, I realized that our little Braxton is getting big! It is so crazy that he is already 15 months!!! January flew by and now we are on the verge of having Millie come. He is going to be such a great big brother. After this last month he will have a lot to teach his little sis. :)

He is starting to inch his way across the furniture. It's a slow but steady learning process because he gets so nervous when he stands up to things. His physical therapist is so impressed with his motivation to move. Yay Braxton! He now tries and is successful at pulling himself up to the most complicated pieces of furniture...he uses those big chompers of his as a third hand to do so. haha

He gets into EVERYTHING! I absolutely LOVE it! He loves to chew on all of Marc's papers and books. I guess if Marc ever needs an excuse he can actually say his son ate his homework. ha Since he is becoming a big brother soon...He now has had a few big changes come into his little world. He is in a front facing car seat which means he has to sit in the shopping cart all the time ( Side note: I hate the whole shopping cart thing. They are so disgusting and since Brax gets sick easy, this is not a very easy change). This was his first big outting to Walmart and he fell right to sleep. haha
I have done a lot of observing this past month and I think Braxton has a definite eye for blue, circular/round things. He will play with any toy really but if it came down to choosing between two toys, I am pretty sure he would go after this ring! haha He cracks me up. He is learning so much!Loves dad's hat. He like to take it off and bite it.

Another big boy change is sitting in a restaurant high chair! This was his first time and he did really good. We fed him some yogurt (which got ALL over him) and then he just played. It is definitely different experience going out to eat when they are in a high chair. He hasn't figured out how to tip his bottle yet when he is sitting so that will be our next hurdle. Braxton got a pretty bad cold which I got too. :( For a few days there we were both out of comission and trying to figure out what would make him feel a little better was a little difficult. Marc came up with a GENIUS idea...he loves his bath and loves these little balls that he has. So, Marc put both together and made our sick little boy the happiest boy in the world! He played in there for 30 plus min!Here are the remnants of him being sick...

He found the tupperware and now gets it out every day!He LOVES to wrestle with dad. He has learned to crawl over obstacles and going over dad was a big one! ha

He also got a new little cousin. Little McRae. He didn't notice him right away...then he started getting fussy and Braxton looked at him. haha McRae is such a cutie! Braxton looks like a bruiser next to him. I am positive that McRae will out grow him soon ;)

He also got to hang out with his girl cousins while we were waiting for McRae to be born. They loved him and made sure he was taken care of. :)His big boy carseat! He didn't notice much of a change. haha

His favorite thing to play with! His little high chair! I think he knows to go there when he wants to eat.

Such a big boy now! We can't believe how much he is learning and improving. He got weighed today and he is back down in the 15 lb range. Little Stinker! He is 27 1/2 inches now and still has the cutest little head. haha He looks a lot older in the face but walking around with him and having a big belly I get a lot of stares and a lot of questions/comments: How old is he?! How far apart will they be?! You are going to have your hands full!! I loved that stage...7 months is a great age! haha Little did they all know that he is 15 months! We are so excited for our little family to grow and for the big man of the house to have another person to teach. We learn from Braxton every day. He is such a special spirit and we are so blessed to have him! Love you Brax!

Ready or Not She is Going to Come!

2012-01-31T12:33:00.000-08:00

Millie is almost here! I can't believe how fast pregnancy flies by when you have another little person to be mom to! I remember being pregnant with Brax it felt like time just stood still! It could be that I didn't do much with myself. haha 15 months have gone by and here we are waiting for this little darling girl to come. :) I couldn't help but post a couple pictures of what I have been doing to get ready for her to come...

When we found out we were having a girl I was soooo excited but nervous because I did not know how I was going to get her ready. The bows, the bracelets, the tights, the shoes, the dresses, the finger nail polish...I am so used to a boy who is so chill to get ready every day (maybe cuz he looks homeless a lot of the time ha)! Since I got back from Christmas break I decided I should get on the whole accessory train and use my not so great skills to stay on a budget. haha So, I decided to make little miss Millie a bow box (that will match her room that she won't have until we move to Omaha)... Here I made some burp cloths, bracelets, and to make the bows my friend Kayli decided to have a bow making party for me which was SOOOOOO helpful! I had know clue there were so many great ways to make bows! I am so grateful that she helped me finish that project...I don't know what I would've have done if she didn't do that for me :)
And last but not least...I figured that there are only so many things you can pass down from a boy to a girl before you are just a rude mom. So I decided I should make Millie her own blanket that was girlie! haha
Not the best pic

Now. I am sure there are a ton of people out there who could tell me a MILLION things that I am forgetting that she will need. But for those of you who might read this that have a girl and there is something I absolutely, 100%, truly MUST have, tell me!! I am a little nervous she might be coming sooner than later so let me know PRONTO!!! haha 4 more weeks til my due date! Having a lot of contractions though...so maybe sooner (37 weeks would be great!)

Like Father Like Son

2012-01-25T10:31:00.000-08:00

Braxton absolutely LOVES his dad! They have so much fun when they are together. They wrestle and fly through the air...they even crawl on the floor together. haha It is so fun to watch them! Braxton over the past couple weeks has learned a lot from his dad:

He has learned how to smile but still look a little tough ha... He knows what team to cheer for (even though they aren't having the best season so far haha)...

How to dress for church Basketball games... How to do Marc's church calling the mornings I have meetings...

And probably his favorite thing he has learned from his dad is how to get out of Priesthood...crawling in the same spot out in the hall. haha

I am so grateful Marc is such a good dad! Being almost 35 1/2 weeks prego doesn't help when you are trying to crawl around on the floor with your son. haha Marc is so busy with school but he is able to balance his time so Braxton can get some manly time. He sure does enjoy it and most of all...look at all the great things he is learning! haha

Lost count...New posts below! :)

2012-01-08T16:47:00.001-08:00

Braxton Update

2012-01-08T15:57:00.000-08:00

One month sure can go by fast when you are busy beyond belief and I cannot believe that our little Brax is already a month older! He has had a fantastic month and he sure is progressing! He has a pretty mellow personality until something makes him mad. haha He is definitely like his dad all mellow and then when something comparable to basketball gets his way he is ready to brawl! ha It is so fun to watch him. He is into everything and we love it! He will play for hours by himself and will just go from toy to toy and examine all of them. He likes all the new toys he got but when we got him home he went back to his old rod iron and Tupperware lids. haha He goes from room to room finding new things.

He loves the ring toy where they stack but he likes just the donuts and the blue one is his favorite. Hence the makeshift hanging toy for his car seat! A little ghetto but it gets the job done. haha He likes to put himself into really tough situations and tries to get out of them...

Since we got home from our vacation and back into our routine Braxton has flourished in the standing area. He will now do this to our bed and will stand up to the couch. The only problem is when get up to the standing position he starts crying because he is scared. His little knees start wobblin and he turns into a statue. His physical therapist will be so proud of how much progress he has made! We are so proud! He is getting more and more distracted with how aware of his surroundings he is. Marc tried to desensitize him with all of his toys from Christmas...it hasn't really worked. ha He is now 16 lbs (on a good day) and can kind of fit into his snow suit. There hasn't been much snow to go out and use this so hopefully we can use it before spring comes along!

His best trick yet is being able to remember his dinner routine. After dinner I go and get a bath ready. Marc takes him out of his chair, undresses him and Braxton now knows where to crawl! haha It is so funny because will come whippin around the corner and almost run into the wall he is so excited! He loves his bath and will go into the bathroom during the day and want to get in. He grunts while he crawls and will go and touch his little bath.

Eating has become a little tricky. He is still eating baby food stage 2 and not quite a full jar at a time. He gets VERY distracted. We have to have the lights off because he will follow the shadow of the spoon instead of the actual spoon. haha This was one of his distracted days. He looks like a 5 month old after a meal. It was in his hair, his eyes, and all over his belly.

The biggest thing to happen over the past month was his follow up MRI for his spinal cord. We were anxiously waiting for the results to see if he would need another surgery on his back. Thank goodness we had fantastic news and everything is looking great back there!

Brax and Dad hanging out before getting sedated...

Once again another IV was placed and he was sedated. It's really sad now that he is older because he knows exactly what is going to happen when we have to pin him down and stick a needle in him. He is so brave though! We are so proud of how well he handles all of his trials!

The medicine they gave him this time though was VERY strong and it took him a good two hours to wake him up enough to get the go ahead to leave and then he slept for 24 hours! It was crazy! There was absolutely no way to wake him up...

On a regular day there is no way we could have done this...

Or this...without him waking up (he is asleep in there haha). Such a champ! We sure do love this guy!

His Uncle Matt gave him this skunk toy. It moves around and he will follow it. When he catches it he will stick his face on it and not move for a few minutes. HILARIOUS!

Braxton is doing so much! We can't believe it! We are so happy that he has found his strength in movement and are hoping he is walking before 18 months! Pretty sure he is going to easily beat that goal. Other things that he is liking right now...

his shadow, biting on purpose, his crib, playing with dad, sitting in his highchair, playing with his crackers and finger foods (not eating them), hitting his head on everything! He purposely goes up to things and bangs his head over and over again. He usually starts crying after a while but starts all over, looking at mom and dad's face (huge accomplishment), going up to literally ANYONE who is on the floor and standing up to their legs, bulldozing over other kids. haha We love you Brax! Soon you are going to be the BEST big brother! Millie will be lucky to have you as a big brother! :) P.S. Workin on a sleeping schedule HARDEST THING EVER! to let him cry himself to sleep. It's hard for any parent but when your child doesn't understand the reason that you are putting him in his crib at night to just cry...let's just say I bawled the first few times. I am happy to say though that after a week in he is getting a lot quicker at going to sleep! Cross our fingers for a habit! That would be great before Millie comes. ha

Happy New Year!

2012-01-08T15:26:00.000-08:00

After 6 funfilled days in the California sunshine we moved on up I-15 back to the cold :) I was actually excited to get back to the cold because I started to swell down in the heat. haha We stayed 5 days in Cedar and we were able to relax and catch up with my family! We had a lot of fun hanging out. Marc and all the guys went shooting rabbits a couple of times and us girls watched the kids and a couple of movies. We played a few games and ate and ate! haha All of that was a lot of fun but what I was looking forward to most is my family's New Years Party! My parents over the past 6 years or so have had a wonderful New Years party. We have a great dinner prepared by none other than my dad... the master chef. ;) and then we play games. We played a fun charades game (it was funny to watch Marc play becuase he isn't much of a game guy ha) after all of that we get serious and play a heated game of BINGO! My parents have the legit bingo game with the ball roller and prizes if you win! We play this until a few minutes before the countdown. Let's just say I wasn't too lucky this year...actually Marc wasn't he didn't win once (either did Cub) Markus was the big winner this year winning 7 TIMES! Our family doesn't get competitive at all so that wasn't a problem ;) We had a blast!
Braxton got all dressed up for the big countdown!

Have to take a family picture...Braxton was looking at the ceiling fan the whole time. There was no use trying to get him to look in the picture. haha Oh and he is a way better trooper than I am. He wanted to countdown and stay up for another hour and a half after that. He must be like me and not want to miss out! ha

Here are a few pics from the trip...Braxton found the huge TV and actually watched if for a few minutes haha Doesn't he have great posture?! :)

He loved his cousins little table. It was his perfect size to stand up to.

Marc and I did a little experiment with Braxton and Rylee...Braxton didn't notice her for like 5 min and they were right next to each other! haha Marc looks good with two kids on his lap. That will be us here in 7 weeks!When he finally realized she was there he touched her hand and was locked in to her.

We have been trying to get this picture for over a month now! Braxton likes to lay flat on the floor (especially our cement floor at our apartment) He decided to lay on the rug just long enough for us to get the picture. haha

It was such a fun 11 days! We got to be with both of our families and enjoy time away from real life. Thanks mom and dad for letting us stay and thanks for the fun party! :) We love you all! Now it is back to the grind. . .

Santa Came!

2012-01-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

After Grandma Rosell's house we came home, ate more food, did our stocking march, and went to bed early ;) It was a fun experience having Christmas for Braxton. Last year he was so tiny and we were so unprepared for Christmas but this year he was actually interested in all the presents he got this year! It was so much fun! Anyways...Christmas night came and low and behold, we were all really good this year and Santa Came!!! Since we had church at 10 we were able to open all of our stockings and Santa gifts.

We all came down the stairs and Braxton wasn't quite as excited as all of his cousins. They were all so excited that Santa had come! Braxton found his stocking though... (Don't mind the HUGE belly ha)

Braxton and Marc...
He was really excited...or overwhelmed, I am not sure. ha

He went right to his stocking and with a little help was able to get through all of it.

He got a ball with holes in it...just like he asked ;)

After all of the excitement from opening his stocking and Santa gifts, Braxton slept through church. That was a first. He wanted to get into the big presents too.

The mess we made after all was said and done...

After church we took our time getting back into opening our presents and just enjoyed the day. We ate a delicious breakfast thanks to all the guys and eventually made our way into the tree room for the the rest. It was kind of nice to take our time. We didn't finish opening presents until about 4 in the afternoon! I love Christmas falling on a Sunday...it doesn't end too quick. We sure did enjoy our day and time with the family! I LOVE going down to California. It is such a blast to get out of Utah for a bit and the weather wasn't too bad either! ;) We had tons and tons of fun. Thanks Ruth and Rande for such a wonderful Christmas!!!

Christmas Eve at Grandma Rosell's

2012-01-08T14:24:00.000-08:00

This year we went to California for Christmas! It was a LONG LONG drive but it sure was worth it! Next year we won't be close enough to drive so we are just grateful we got one more year somewhat close by. :) Marc's family does a lot of fun things for Christmas. There are so many traditions that have been around for a while and I LOVE traditions! Every Christmas eve they go to their Grandma Rosell's house and she is just the sweetest lady. She has 9 kids, 50 grandkids, and about 30 great-grandkids! She has such a wonderful legacy and they love getting together every year! We eat a huge meal, change into our jams, and have a Christmas program out in her back yard. (it was 75 degrees the whole time we were down there! Wish I wouldn't have brought all of my winter clothes! haha)

Our little family with Grandma Rosell...Braxton loves her!

Each of the 9 families does a little skit and we sang Jingle Bells and used little bells to spice it up. haha

They do the Nativity Scene and this year Braxton and Brock were wisemen. They did such a great job! ha

We had to take a picture infront of Grandma's HUGE Christmas tree!

Braxton and his dad stopped paying attention for a while...they had a mini photoshoot. ha After the fun program, Santa Claus came and gave all the kids presents from his bag. Braxton sure liked Santa!

Temple Square

2012-01-08T14:10:00.000-08:00

So...it's been about a month since the last time I blogged! I am dying that I have to catch up on everything! I just keep putting it off but it's time and now I have to try and remember all of the fun things we did over the past month!! Right after Marc finished his first semester of Dental school we went to temple square with Mike, Megan, and Ruthie! It was pretty cold but we were deteremined to get together and do something festive so we braved the cold and had a great time! The lights were beautiful as always and the temple was STUNNING! I absolutely love living near such an amazing temple. Ruthie and Braxton...Ruthie looks DARLING!

Our little family in the Joseph Smith Memorial building (that's where we took refuge from the frigid air haha)

Marc did a great job with the photography. :)
Me and Brax. Don't worry he slept the WHOLE time we were there. haha

~Ward Christmas Party~

2011-12-09T07:13:00.000-08:00

Last night we went to our ward Christmas party and it was so much fun! We really are so lucky to be in the ward that we are. It's like we are back in our first married student ward just with a million more kids. haha

This year the ward went all out and we went up Millcreek Canyon to Camp Tracy (I had never heard of it) but it was so neat! It was this huge lodge and perfect to have a PARTY! When we got there we just were mingling, we were not even close to being the first ones and we still got roped in to being Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus for the Nativity. They came up to us and said that the Mary and Joseph cancelled this year and so of course I can't say no. Let's just say that it wasn't biblically correct...Mary and Joseph did not have a 13 month old Jesus (who really did look 5 or 6 months old so I guess Brax could pass haha) and another one on the way. haha It was fun because all of the Primary kids got involved and to be honest it wasn't the greatest rendition of the Nativity but it sure was a funny one! haha I was actually thinking I should have been Santa Claus with how big my belly is! Before we left I had to get a family pic to remember how much fun we had...Braxton was even smiling!

Braxton also had his first encounter with Santa Claus. He almost ripped his beard off! The little girl his age went right before him and she started bawling immediately...not Brax he really doesn't mind going to other people, especially if they have a long beard to tug. :) He kept trying to get the jingle bells that the Bishop had jingling out of the shot. He is cracks me up!

I am so glad we got to go to the party! It was good to go and get festive with the ward. It was nice that Marc was able to take a little break from studying...FINALS NEXT WEEK and then CHRISTMAS BREAK baby! Can't wait!!! :)

Accomplishments!

2011-12-08T19:44:00.000-08:00

Braxton just turned 13 months and the past month has been full of so many accomplishments! We are so proud of him! :) He is pretty excited himself...He has decided to bump up his eating from 3 1/2 oz to 4!!!
He ate his first whole jar of food. He is eating twice a day now 1/2 jar of the stage 2 jars. He loves Bananas, Sweet Potatoes, Peaches, Carrots, Mixed Veggies, he even ate Pears and Raspberries mixed! He went to a food therapist the other day because he will NOT let anything enter his mouth that isn't baby food or a toy. haha A few hours after his appointment, he decided to put a Ritz in his mouth ( he didn't really eat it but he sucked on it and that is a huge step!) When he would bite it the sound of the cracker breaking would scare him! ha
His physical therapist has just loved working with him because he loves to move and is motivated to get around. He went one week just crawling, the next crawling to sitting, then sitting and playing with toys, then crawling everywhere around the house and getting into stuff Yay!! And now he is standing up to shorter things around the house. He loves to stand up to his high chair! I am so glad he found one of his strengths...Keep on moving buddy I will gladly clean up any mess you make! :)
One day he decided to cross the kitchen lenolium into our bedroom and he found this wonderful decoration...HE LOVES IT! He will drag this thing around with him everywhere! He loves anything rod iron.

This is the first time he found the "toy"

He knows where he eats and will go up to the high chair when it's about that time to eat some baby food. ha

He finally noticed the ZHU ZHU pet and will follow it around the house. By the time he actually thinks he has caught up to it, it decides to turn itself around and go the opposite way. I am so surprised he doesn't get annoyed but if he can stay focused he will follow it.

This pic was funny because I dressed him up in this outfit and Marc thinks it's a little young for him (it's his size cuz it finally fits) but he obviously took his dad's side and did not like it at all! I still dress him in it. haha

We are just loving where Brax is at and we are pushing him as far as he will go. He still just communicates through grunts and wheezing but he will let you know what he wants. Has 9 teeth! He finally reached 15 pounds and we are just thrilled! It took us four months for crying out loud. haha Still getting constant ear infections but despite that is still happy and is starting to move toward sound. He loves to come up to Marc or my feet when he wants up. He knows our voices and LOVES to play with his toys. Every therapist we go to or doctor just absolutely loves him and are so astonished at what he is accomplishing. He has a long way to go still but WOW is he surprising us everyday! Our goal is 18 months for him to walk...stay tuned it might be earlier! :)

Shopping Cart

2011-12-02T13:58:00.000-08:00

Braxton had his first shopping event in a shopping cart today! My mom got him a shopping cart cover for his birthday and now that he is sitting on his own I thought today we be a good time to try it out. We had so much fun at first. When I put him in he was laughing and when the shopping cart would shake from the asphalt he would laugh hysterically. When we got inside it was so funny because everyone would come up to me and say "Oh my gosh! What a cute little baby!". Some gave me a few dirty looks because they probably thought he was too young to be in a shopping cart. I just smile and think if only you knew that he was 13 months old. haha

He was content for a little while and then after the excitement wore off 5 min later...
He started crying and nothing would make him happy. So he finally just resorted to laying across the whole seat until we were done. haha I don't know if he is quite ready for the whole shopping cart thing...we will try in a week or so. haha

Oh and a random side note...I have been searching for these cookies for about three weeks now because I have been CRAVING them so bad! I finally found them at a random walmart I went into. They are DIVINE!!! If any of you love peppermint these are the way to go. I think I need to go and buy a few more packs and another gallon of milk ;) Thank you Christmas for bringing peppermint everything into the stores! haha

Gobble Gobble

2011-12-01T05:33:00.000-08:00

So this is going to be kind of a lame post because I have ZERO pictures of the actual Thanksgiving meal and all the fun things we were able to do over the weekend. But, I did get a few of some fun times we had.

For Thanksgiving this year Marc, Braxton and I took the long trek down south to Las Vegas! It sure was worth the drive because we got to be with family and it was WARM! We stayed at my paraent's time share and had a blast!

We played at the little jungle gym...I even went down the slide with Braxton! haha I thought I was going to go into labor it was so high ;) Marc tried to send Braxton down the slide by himself...Didn't work out like we planned. haha
This was after our Thanksgiving meal. We all lounged around and the two boys played with each other. Braxton is sure getting better at recognizing other kids around him and "playing" with them by biting or by trying to bulldoze them over. haha Rush really is so good with him. He would always come over and give Braxton a kiss on the forehead and give him a side hug. He tried to teach Braxton how to use his toys.

There is the sweet little side hug :)

Braxton watching Rush know how to play with the toy.

Brax is getting so good at sitting up by himself...It was fun because he would just cruise around the room and go from toy to toy. Braxton and Dad playing together. He sure does LOVE Marc's cast. He gets so distracted by it and just smiles. It's hilarious!

I am so sad that I didn't take more pictures. My parents kind took over this trip so if I get my hands on them I will have to post some of them. We took family pics while we were down there and I look like a plump peach but it sure was nice to finally get a family picture after 3 years! haha It's always a stressful time but now that we have them done it will be nice to have the memory of having the whole family together. Maybe the next time I won't be prego!! haha Now that we are back and it is WINDY AND COLD I sure do miss being able to go bask in the sun and get burnt after 15 min. haha Happy Thanksgiving and now Bring it On Christmas! We are so excited!!!!

Spreading the Love

2011-11-30T14:01:00.000-08:00

So Brax and I were out running errands today and just when I was about to get mad at the stupid stop light for not turning green when I wanted it to...I saw this. It made me laugh. Someone had taped the two fingers on the hand that symbols not to walk across the street and it made an "I Love You" sign. It was great. I was just reminded that we have to spread the love this season! I love that such a small random moment can put things back into perspective and also give me a laugh. haha December starts tomorrow! Yay!!!! On the countdown! :)

Happenings of the Week

2011-11-20T21:15:00.000-08:00

We have had a fun and interesting week. Braxton has been progressing so fast and it is so fun to see how curious he is, how motivated he is to move and to study (in detail) every toy. haha His new fascination is the Laptop. He loves to help me email people and to look up baby stuff. He even found a way to make all of my font smaller (I don't know how to change it back)...he is so smart!

This past week he had to get another hearing test done which meant he had to be put to sleep and that he would have to starve all morning. :( The night before his test I think he knew what he was up against because at 7 he was out. I tried everything to wake the little guy up and as you can see...even the bath didn't work! haha Even though he was so hungry the nurses provided him with so many toys in his crib that he was completely distracted (at least for an hour). It was really funny though to think back on his previous tests and how immobile he was...this time he was crawling around the crib and looking at everything he could get his hands on. I am so proud! :)

He LOVED this ball because he could get his little chubby fingers through it and even see through it. (Don't tell him but I think Santa is bringing him one ;)

This was after he woke up...he wanted that bottle and would not put it down. He drank 6 oz in 10 min! He only drinks 4 oz at a time so that shows just how hungry he was. It was sad though because the blood pressure cuff was too big for his arm and so he could barely use that arm to hold his bottle. ha

Another thing that has become an everyday occurrence is playing under his jumper. It started out as just a little place to play for a couple min but now that is his place. We call it his "fort" and he just absolutely loves it! He puts all of his toys under there. He tries to sit up but always hits his head. He has learned though that his mouth is a great way to hold a toy and also play with another one at the same time. We just laugh at how cute his problem solving skills are.

Here is his stash of toys under his jumper. I have given up on cleaning it because he plays with them and pulls them back under if I do.

The BEST part of the week though was getting to decorate for Christmas! I was so excited to get our tree and put actual ornaments on it this year. Last year we had a homemade Christmas because of our situation with Braxton which was fun...don't get me wrong...but I sure do love matching ornaments and a theme. haha If you like decorating a little early like me and want a tree before Thanksgiving...Home Depot is the place to go! :)

Braxton did not pay attention to the tree at all! He was so enthralled with his basketball.

I had to literally sit him in front of the tree and put the branch in his hand for him to see it was there. He actually like playing with it for a little while.

While I was decorating the tree Braxton just watched and ate...He sure looks comfy! I wanted to switch him spots. I get hungry just as often being prego and all. haha

We had so much fun decorating the tree and setting up all of the decorations around the house. I just love this time of year and I can't wait for Thanksgiving and then CHRISTMAS! Yay! I can't wait to visit family and most of all we get to spend some one on one time with Marc since he has a break! By Christmas Marc will get his cast off and Braxton can't wait! They can actually play together. I know Braxton misses rough play with his dad! So much to look forward too. I just have to remember to not wish my time away! You only get to enjoy the season once a year! Merry Christmas...oh and Happy Thanksgiving! :)

Oh Braxton

2011-11-14T07:59:00.001-08:00

Lately Braxton has been cracking us up! Now that he can crawl he finds himself in some of the funniest situations. He loves the most random things! Ever since we started up physical therapy again he is getting so independent and feeling like a big kid. haha

This picture was just so cute I had to post it. :) We found the exact same pajama that we bought when Brax was in the NICU and we thought that this would be such a great picture to show his growth in a year! It's crazy to think that that little sleeper was BIG on him when he was first born! haha Size Preemie to Nine Months! Crazy! This is Braxton's new favorite thing! Instead of being in the jumper he crawls under it and will play there forever! We put a few toys under there and he just loves it! Yesterday he was under there for 40 min at least. haha

His other favorite thing is this silver bowl! He will sit there and play and play. I think he loves to look at his reflection off the bottom of the bowl!His other new favorite thing is Marc's cast! He will always sit and study it, try and chew on it, and feel it. When Marc tries to feed him he gets so distracted trying to find it.

Another favorite for Braxton is his Crib! On his Birthday he finally moved out of our room into his crib! He LOVES it. He sleeps pretty good in it (I am still a nervous wreck and wake up just to go and make sure he is breathing. The monitor is great but I can't really tell exactly what's going on). He will play in there and crawl back and forth for 30 min. haha He is hilarious! It's so crazy how much Braxton is accomplishing right now! We are so proud and it is so fun to just sit and watch him try and figure things out. Yay Braxton! :)

Happy Birthday Marc!

2011-11-13T20:59:00.000-08:00

This past Friday we celebrated Marc's Birthday! He turned 27 on 11/11/11! We went down to Megan's and went out to Olive Garden where Melissa, Jeff and the whole fam came up for the weekend. :) It worked out really good that we got to have some family around to celebrate with us. After dinner we came back to Megan's. We all got to sing to Marc and he blew out his candle! haha He isn't into celebrating his birthday all over the top so it was fun to have a little bit of fun! We had a DQ cake because my homemade cake failed! :( I was so happy to make Marc his Birthday cake (which is kind of my favorite part of his whole day because I love to bake) this year but being prego has it's disadvantages for sure and this is the first time I can truly blame a problem on prenancy...memory loss! That morning I woke up and made him his birthday breakfast and got started. It took about two hours and once I put the first layer in the oven I realized that I had forgotten TWO major ingredients! Sugar! and Milk! I am such an idiot! I had a complete melt down bawling and was so sad that I wouldn't get to give Marc his cake that I worked so hard on (plus I wasted two hours of my day)! We laughed about it a few hours later but it was very devastating there for an hour or so. haha So DQ it was and I think I might be getting that every year now! I forgot how good those things were and Marc agreed! haYou may notice the "little" cast on Marc's arm. Well the week before Marc started intramural basketball and 6 min before the game ended he BROKE HIS LEFT INDEX FINGER! You kind of need that for Dental school! haha He came home and said he had dislocated it and put it back in but after two days of it getting more swollen and black and blue I talked him into going to the Urgent Care place for an x-ray. 20 min in the Doc. office and walks out with a splint on it! We just laughed because it is so fitting seeming as his schooling and profession he will kind of need his fingers. haha After the weekend we went to the doctor and the nurse got cast happy and put a whole arm cast on. Now everyone comes up to him and asks him how he broke his arm. haha Happy Happy!
Our little family on Marc's big day. And no...your eyes are not deceiving you. I blew up over night! haha I think I ate too much at Olive Garden ;)

Marc with his favorite little people. They sure love him (at least he has brainwashed them too haha he got little Micah to tell everyone that uncle Marc is the smartest person he knows ha)

The two boys got to play with each other too! They had fun playing with their own little basketball and soccer ball. A lady at dinner asked if they were twins...we said no and she said, "oh they just must be close in age". Sorry lady these two are 6 months apart and we wish he was as big as Brock! haha I think Braxton was jealous that Brock has the basketball because in every picture he is looking at the ball! haha

We had so much fun! Thanks Megan for letting us celebrate at your house! It was such a fun night and even though I botched the cake it still was perfect! Hope you had a great one babe! Braxton, unborn Millie and I love you! :)

One Amazing Year!

2011-11-05T20:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Braxton Rosell McRae!

4 lbs 14 oz 17.5 in

Wow has it been a year! I remember a year ago at about this time Marc's and my life would change forever. Marc went off to California for a Dental School interview and I would be left home because what I thought was horrible back pain would turn out to be back labor and a few hours later result in my water breaking. I still had a little under 5 weeks to go! I couldn't believe it! After what seemed like a dream of being flown up to Salt Lake with my mom, Marc and his sisters driving nonstop through the night to meet me there and then waiting for our sweet, tiny little man to arrive, he did! at 6:16 on November 6, 2010. I will never forget that day (nor will anyone else who experienced it with us). Looking back at all of that now it is amazing how we even got through this past year.

Braxton's month stay at the NICU would start our parenting adventure off and oh wow, that was a trying time. I can't put into words how hard it was to leave our son every night and hope to not get a phone call from the doctor saying something had gone wrong. I cried probably every time we had to drive the 40 min to get to our temporary home at my SIL Megan's home. Thank goodness for her and Mike's sacrifice on our behalf...we can't thank them enough. We just wanted to be by his side at all times. Every day, religiously, we would leave around 9 and come home when the nurses switched shifts. I am sure us being there that much bugged the nurses but there was no way we were going to be away from him. As a mom I went through many different emotions...happiness, joy, gratitude, hurt, pain, loneliness, absence. For a while I felt gypped. I didn't get to be the mom that everyone else got to be. I had to leave my son with a stranger at night. I felt as though he wouldn't remember me. If he was in pain at night I wouldn't be there to comfort him. But then, he would smile or look up at you and you knew, you knew that he knew who we were, his parents who were so lucky to have such a special spirit enter our lives. You could tell when we got there every morning that he knew we were there. Many prayers got answered during that month. Prayers of comfort, healing, and gratitude. Blessings were given and promises were made from the Lord that Braxton, our sweet son, would be alright. I haven't really ever written about this or talked about it much but what we went through in that hospital every day was spiritual. We got to be next to one of the sweetest little angels and he was able to teach us patience, how to have childlike faith, and to be positive. Each day brought its challenges but with each challenge there was growth. I know that because we were blessed enough to be able to go up there every day and be with our son. Each day he progressed, and we got him to the point that we got to bring him home that December 4th night. There were definitely mixed emotions that night. We had to bring home our fragile little man on oxygen and a feeding tube. It wasn't just diaper changes and people helping you along the way anymore...we were on our own. My dream of being a "normal" parent was coming true but both Marc and I were pretty nervous. What if he stopped breathing? What if we couldn't replace his NG tube? What if he got sick? All these what ifs were going through each of our minds but all of that cancelled itself out when we got him in the car and started the drive home. It felt wonderful to have him in the back seat with us. We were parents, on our own, and life was amazing. Yes he got a hernia right when we got him to Megan's house (which stunk) but we got to be with him and we got to get up with him and not have to ask to change his diaper or hold him. I could hold my sweet son whenever I wanted! I could do what I wanted! haha I felt a little edgy getting him out of his pack n' play without permission. ha

As soon as we got him home it was somewhat normal. We were in the comfort of our own home finally.

We took him to many doctor appointments, traveled back and forth from Salt Lake a few times for hernia surgeries, testical (can I say that on a blog) surgeries, spinal cord surgery, ear tubes, follow up visits and more but we got to be there for it all! Braxton has been our champ this year. He has been through more than most people have to go through in a lifetime physically but he did it with such faith. I know he could never actually tell us what he was thinking but I know he had the Lord on his side through everything. He was the one teaching us how to be better. He knew more than we ever would and I think a lot of times he was probably laughing at me if I started crying because I was scared for him...I bet he said it best in his head and probably quoted the scripture Matt. 6:30, "...Oh ye of little faith" The Lord was always there and always will be for all of us. I am so glad I get to learn that every day. He has taught Marc and I to have faith...no matter what we are going through. He has taught us to take life a lot slower. Enjoy each moment. I am so guilty of sometimes not getting ready for the day until 2, still, but I don't care. Braxton keeps our perspective where it should be. This (having our son go through so much pain) was never our plan. As much as I want to have everything planned out each day, it usually never works out because I am not in charge. The Lord is in charge he sends us trials in our lives to make us better people. Braxton has been the best blessing we have ever had. He has handled everything so well and we are so proud of him for that. He has made so much progress and still has many challenges ahead but I know for sure that whatever obstacle comes his way...he might cry for a second but you just wait and a smile will spread across his face no matter what pain or problem he is having. Life is not perfect but it is the perfect life for our little family. I am so happy that we were able to get Braxton through his first year and I am so grateful for the gift that he has been in our life. Without him I don't know where we would be. One year is such an amazing milestone for babies to hit because we as parents got them through it with no road map. I am so glad we get to celebrate Braxton's first year of life and more years to come. We are the luckiest parents ever to have Braxton and that we get to raise him and help him fulfill his goals (everyone should say that about their child). We thank Heavenly Father every night to be in the situation we are in and to be able to learn from such a special spirit. We love you Braxton and are truly so proud of what you have accomplished so far in your first year! Thanks for coming to us! :) Happy Birthday!

Thanks to everyone who helped us get through this past year! We are so grateful for your sacrafice, love and prayers! :) Braxton has accomplished a lot during his 11th month:

He is CRAWLING! Not quite sitting but we are working on it :)

He is exploring, moving all over the place, and becoming more curious it's so fun to see him figuring things out.

He isn't 15 pounds yet...we are working on it haha

He is in mostly 6 month clothing

He is taking naps in his crib

Smiles and laughs constantly

Loves to play with my hair...he always looks for Marc's hair but it's never there. haha

Getting three teeth at the same time!

Still LOVES his jumper

Loves his hand and will touch his thumb between his eyes and push himself backwards. haha He cracks himself up all the time doing that.

Likes to joke around with mom and dad

Loves to play with his dad
Isn't sleeping through the night yet :(

Loves to play with his book, drum, and anything that looks like a string

He has has major growth this past month and it is so exciting to think that he has come this far in such a short time! Can't wait to see what he accomplishes this next year! :)

Three Posts Below!

2011-11-01T17:08:00.001-07:00

Trick or Treat!

2011-11-01T16:32:00.000-07:00

Braxton had his first real trick or treating event! Woo Woo! He did so good! Our cute and quaint little neighborhood was a perfect spot for a first timer. haha There are mainly little kids and there weren't many of them. It was great weather so we didn't even need coats! :)

Marc prepping Braxton for his first outing. Braxton was just wondering why there wasn't any candy in his bucket yet. haha So a little history about this lovely pic...so Marc and I really aren't the dressing up kind of people. I really want to be! I loved it in middle school and a little bit of high school but I haven't dressed up since then. So, I was watching all of these cute moms and dads outside all dressed up with their kids and I decided to whip up a costume and get in the spirit. I forgot how much fun it was! ha I only had stuff to make a cat (makeup, headband, and some pipe cleaners)...creative right? Not! ha But Braxton loved my ears. Anytime my head would move he would follow it. hahaWe went outside and tried to make it look like he was walking up to the stairwell (yes, stairwell. We had to climb stairs to get to the apartments because not everyone passes out candy here) of the first house.

We warmed up at a couple houses and then he got the hang of it! All the people loved his cute little face and costume. I got a couple of weird looks but hey...that's the name of the game.

After we got home he ate all of his candy and passed out from his sugar high...I wish. We actually put his candy in our bowl and gave it to the other trick or treaters and he was so happy to share. haha

It was so much fun taking him out for the first time! I can't wait for next year when he can teach Millie how to trick or treat :) So long Halloween! It was sure fun this year! Next...Thanksgiving, then Christmas! Yay! haha

Halloween Party!

2011-11-01T16:10:00.000-07:00

The day after Braxton's party we had our annual McRae Halloween Party. :) It was so much fun to see all the little cousins dressed up! They had a blast playing in Melissa's backyard. We had a soup cook off, a lot of treats, and a ton of fun! I can't believe that it was just a year ago when Marc and I lived in St. George around this time. We didn't miss out on anything back then. As much as I LOVE SLC I do really miss the warm weather. I was in capris and was wishing I was in shorts! haha

All of the cousins/second cousins posing for a picture...of course Braxton wasn't looking in any of the pictures. He gets so distracted and I love it. haha There were only a few cries from this crowd. Braxton and Brock "Broccoli" I absolutely LOVED his costume! Melissa is so creative! He is already bigger than Brax. haha

Marc had so much fun throwing Braxton in the air and letting his cape get some real flying action. Brax couldn't get enough...until he threw up a couple tosses later. haha He is so happy playing with Marc!
Since the kids couldn't go trick or treating for a couple of days we did an indoor one. Aunt Becky was at this door handing out Braxton his first piece of candy. :)

The cousin pic didn't turn out as good as we planned. The three little ones had had it at that point. haha

We had a blast this past weekend! It was full of fun times and family! What better way to spend a little time off?! We already miss seeing everyone! :) Thanks Melissa for letting us come take over your house! ;) Halloween was sure fun this year!!

Braxton's 1st Birthday Party

2011-11-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Well it's official that I have overdone it with the pics on this post but...I had to get every moment of Braxton's 1st Birthday Party! It was about a week early but Marc didn't have school on Friday and all of his family and my family would be down south. So it was obvious that we should pack up the car and get down there and share such a great event with the whole fam! :) First of all, I have to thank my SIL and BIL Becky and Matt for letting us use their home...AGAIN for Braxton's party. They just have the perfect party house. We told them it wouldn't be an annual event because here in about 6 months we are moving to Omaha. haha But really thanks for letting us use your beautiful home! It made the party perfect!

Braxton had a blast during his whole party! He didn't know what was going on but he sure loved it! haha
The theme was Superman so it was only fitting that he got a not so greatly decorated Superman cake. :)The party favors
The cupcakes with B's on them. haha

The banner that I really shouldn't have made but I had so much fun doing! ha

And my fav...his one year collage. This was my favorite thing. I got to go through all of his pics and highlight his first year of life. It was so much fun to see the progress he has made in just a year's time!

HE LOVED HIS CAKE (at least the bright frosting and candles)! It was hilarious!

Uncle Matt trying to help him blow his candles out...

He was so curious what Marc was putting in front of him! He was ready to dig in.

And he did! haha

He didn't eat it by any means but he sure liked the colors and texture! He couldn't figure it out. He had enough of that and realized he wasn't getting a full tummy so we brought in the reinforcements...Bottle! His chubby fingers were all covered in frosting! It was the greatest moment ever! I was just so proud that he would play with his cake!

We did presents before the cake and he got some amazing things! Thanks to all of our family members! He loved the wrapping paper and helping open the presents. (we practiced opening presents before the party so it wasn't new to him haha)He got books, blocks, a shopping cart cover so I can finally take him out of his carseat, clothes, a fire engine, balls, a sick pair of Jordans, and the lifesaver of the party...a little high chair! We didn't have one so I was so glad that Ruth had got him his own little seat.

He loves the lights on this thing. ha

Markus and Brax playing All the nieces and nephews...Rush loved Matt and Becky's backyard. It was so cute because Ruthie kept giving him kisses on the cheek. Little Micah and Halie thought that was the funniest thing in the world. Grandma Ruth with the little guysBraxton just wanted down to play with the wrapping paper. :)

And after all of the fun...he ZONKED on Grandma J! haha He sure had some fun!

This was the best party ever because we got to share it with our families who have been there for us throughout Braxton's first eventful year. We are so grateful for all of the gifts but mainly so grateful for family traveling and helping us celebrate our favorite boy in the world! He has been through a lot but having everyone there for us sure made it a lot easier! Thanks Everyone! We Love You! And Braxton...Mom and Dad love you so so much! Thanks for coming to us! :)

Braxton's 1 Year Photo Shoot!

2011-10-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

Braxton had his first year photo shoot a week ago and man was I excited about this! I found out about this cute photographer from my SIL Megan and I am so glad I was able to get in with her! She didn't even know me and was more than willing to travel an hour up to where we live (without charging extra), she did an AMAZING job, and it was only 45 bucks for these fantastic pictures! She captured everything that I love about my little Brax! All of his facial expressions, his gorgeous eyes, his quirks, and my FAVORITE...his fat, chubby hands. haha She didn't even laugh when I whipped out his Q7 Man Halloween costume that is WAY homemade! ha

I am just so appreciative of these pictures! I was freaking out a little because I didn't know how Braxton would act during the session. He was crying right before, trying to sleep, and then he turned it on for the camera! I was so thankful!

K enough of that...here are just a few of the pics. I honestly LOVED them all and I couldn't choose! So I just chose a few...

It was only fitting to get pictures of Braxton in his costume because he has been through so much this year and is a little superman! I changed the symbol just a bit so that it was more him and made it Q7 after his little disorder. haha I honestly would let him wear it everywhere with how cute he looked in it. It just fits him and his personality. haha

This book got us through the whole session without tears.

He loved the leaves on the ground

Classic look from the little man

There's his fat chubby hand I love so much! He does too...he is always staring at it!

This totally looks like a fake smile! haha He is already learning to please his mom

I can't wait to celebrate his birthday! Huge day not only for him...but for Marc and I! We got him through his first year! Only a couple more weeks! Yay! :) Sorry so many pics! (actually I don't think I'm that sorry haha)

We Love Apples!

2011-10-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

At the moment...I am obsessed with apples! Actually, I take that back, I am always obsessed with them but this time of year always makes it a lot easier to get ripe, cheap, crisp ones. haha Like many people out there who do the whole carameled apple thing, we decided to finally follow suit and join in the fun! Ever since Marc and I have been married I have wanted to do it but he always talked me into just the caramel dip you buy...NOT THIS YEAR! I took the initiative, made a mess, got back into tradition, and ate the deliciousness that is called carameled apples. It was so much fun! And so I could take pictures of our first ever apple event of our married life Marc did most of the work :) He did quite well. Oh and it's ok to be jealous of our lovely abode (many people are! ;))...our apt. is off the hook! haha

Here is Marc stirring the lovely caramels...on our itty bitty stove.
Yes...I am aware there are forks in the apples instead of sticks. The caramel package didn't provide 5 sticks this time :( I guess we are in a recession what was I thinking!

Still stirring...Marc was worried this would take too much of his study time. haha Thankfully I halved the recipe so it only took a couple minutes

During this time Braxton was having way too much fun in his jumper. He could care less about the whole apple thing...at least this year.

Marc didn't like how I dipped my apple so he decided to show me how to get the whole thing covered in caramel. I told him it would be way too much but he learned his lesson when he tried to scrape off most of it. haha

The magnificent end product! It was delicious but very messy! I think I might be doing this one more time before Halloween. It's healthy right? haha No more caramel dip for us! We are stepping it up :)

My New Little Niece!

2011-10-10T21:05:00.001-07:00

Ang just had her beautiful baby Rylee last thursday! Braxton and I were so lucky to get to go down there and see her and hold her and be of any help to Ang, Brace, and Rush. It was so much fun to see everyone. It was a way short trip but it was worth it! She is so darling and chunky! haha

Rylee and I getting to know each other. haha

I tried to have Braxton look and give Rylee a little wave but he was way more interested in his hand and mine. haha Oh and he looks like he just worked out and is all sweaty but it's the drool!

Once again looking at his hand. He usually doesn't look at anyone unless they are holding him or are bugging him. haha This will be me in 4 months though! So crazy but I can't wait!!! I am so glad that Ang let me come and get in the way! haha I just love that sweet little girl! I am a little jealous of her though...she is way tanner than me! What's new though ;)

10th Month

2011-10-10T20:20:00.000-07:00

What an amazing month Braxton had!
It was filled with some growth (which is always good), a lot of sickness :( but more than anything it was filled with him making us laugh hysterically and tons of F.U.N! He did a lot of scooting (can't quite get the crawling thing down but it will come), sitting for 5 min without falling, laughing like a big boy, looking at his hand and studying it (he has now moved from the whole hand to grabbing each individual finger haha), eating more food 1/2 jar consistently when he isn't sick, holding his bottle for most of the time, A LOT of wiggling and moving, getting stuck under things, he got a 6th tooth, hasn't reached 15 lbs yet, actually grew out of his 3 month clothes...wait I take that back. He has a pair of pants that are 0-3 and a jacket that is 3 months haha. He did a lot of hanging out with dad on his breaks which he absoutely LOVES, loves his carseat again, took two trips to cedar, he likes to use his head to do just about everything you would use your hands for (he pushes buttons on his toys with his head ha), LOVES LOVES LOVES his jumper, he got 3 ear infections...a UTI...and a cold all which included a 103-104 degree fever! It is becoming that time of year again RSV!!! and it's sad because he is so prone to infection and he is around a lot of children. I am going to have to do a lot of chatting with parents about letting their kids touch Braxton :( On a happier note, he loves our daily walks (getting cold now so hopefully those will last), he moved to size 3 diapers, not sleeping through the night yet, takes about three naps during the day (two short and one long), bites like a pitbull and has drawn blood a couple of times, already is pushing Millie's buttons by kicking my stomach or stepping on it ha, and will look at you like you're an idiot if you don't make him laugh. haha

Braxton is so much fun! He is happy most of the time and finds joy in some of the most random things! It is hilarious! Marc and I just enjoy watching him explore everything around him and watching him become more and more independent. We are so excited that he is only one month away from the big UNO and that he is doing so well. Keep it up buddy!! We love you so much!

Conference Weekend...Not like I Planned

2011-10-03T21:11:00.000-07:00

I LOVE conference weekend! I have so many fond memories of this weekend and now that I am a mom I want to make memories for Brax (even though he could probably care less haha). So I had it all planned...we wake up, have biscuits and gravy (my favorite, and now Marc's too), we would go up Big Cottonwood Canyon (a place I have always wanted to go), have a fun KFC picnic and go on a little hike in between Saturday sessions.

Well...like I said I "planned" it but my plans usually don't go the way I see them in my head. For instance: I didn't plan on Braxton waking up with a 103.2 degree fever poor little guy, I didn't plan on getting so wrapped up into making Millie a blanket and forgetting to eat lunch before lunch (if you are like me when you're prego, you have to have two of every meal so you don't get sick), I didn't plan on not knowing where this stinking canyon was, and I didn't plan on getting sicker than a dog because the road was so windy and I hadn't eaten! So, we went with the flow. We actually didn't eat up on the mountain because there wasn't a KFC on the way or any other restaraunt. We ate after the whole trip at Cafe Rio instead. We didn't get to enjoy the ride up because my head was hanging out the window trying not to you know what. We didn't get to go on a hike because of Braxton's condition and I had forgotten coats and my baby carrier. But I did get to go and see the BEAUTIFUL leaves, the BEAUTIFUL canyons, and most importantly I got to do it with my family. Obviously Braxton didn't care...

He just sat in the back and enjoyed the ride I was so worried about.

when we got as far as I could go before I drove back down the mountain I had to take some pictures of the pretty scenery.

I finally had to get out and walk around. haha

There was this hike that was only 2 miles and I really wanted to go so I could see what was up there but Marc wasn't having it. He would have had to carry Braxton the whole way! ha

Other than the FANTASTIC talks...(I loved them all! Especially the one by Elder M. Russell Ballard!) We had a great time as a family. Even though it didn't go like I had planned, at least I had a plan. haha Sometimes that all you need. Such a great time of year! Everything was WONDERFUL! I do have to thank Marc for dealing with my wacky ideas. He actually had some fun getting away from studying for a little bit. haha

St. George Visit

2011-09-29T13:44:00.000-07:00

I tried to post this last night but the computer wouldn't let me so this is an addition to the Cedar post. When we went down to Cedar we just had to go to St. George and see everyone down there! I hadn't seen everyone for over a month and I was so excited to see how big Brock was getting! It was such a quick visit but quick is better than not seeing anyone at all! :) We stopped by Melissa's to get our traditional cousin pics of Brock and Braxton. It was going to happen sooner or later but it happened sooner and now Brock weighs more than Braxton. haha I just loved holding little Brock and rubbing his SOFT head. Seriously, he is the cutest thing! I just love him. His smile is so darling and I couldn't get enough of him. Micah and Halie were so cute too! Best older brother and sister EVER!

I wasn't able to get the pictures of Braxton and Brock both smiling but either way they look so cute! It was funny because Brock would be happy and then they would switch off. haha I think Melissa got a few pictures of them both happy at the same time.

Braxton looks older in the face but size wise Brock is surpassing him. haha I just love these two next to each other. One day they will be playing and running around together! :)

It was so much fun to go down to St. George and see these guys! We were also able to go over to Matt and Becky's for a while it was so good to catch up! I think we will be going down there right before Halloween! Yay! :) Thanks for letting us stop by and pay you a visit...even on your busiest night of the week! haha

Our First Visit to Cedar...Alone!

2011-09-28T20:56:00.001-07:00

Marc had his first test a couple of days ago and while he was preparing for it he "suggested" that Braxton and I take a little trip down south to good ol' C Town. So...we did! It was so much fun to see the family! We had so much fun! It is always good to go and see everyone. The sad part is is that time FLEW by and we didn't get to do all that we had planned! Next trip for sure ;) Marc sure missed Brax though...of course he missed me haha but once you have kids, you sure MISS your kids the most. Hence, all these pics are not very good because I was always taking them on my phone to send to Marc. ha

Here is just a quick wrap up of our trip (no order don't have time)...

Braxton go to sit in a high chair that actually fit his little body! haha He loved it! This high chair actually was Markus' back in the day.
Ang and I decided to take the kids up to Kid's Pond for a little picnic. Braxton slept...

and slept...
and slept...

and even putting him back into the carseat, still slept! haha I was a little sad that he didn't get to enjoy it as much as little Rush. Oh well. It was so pretty up there though! We were the only ones until these crazy guys (Elyse this one is for you if you read this. One of those guys was your brother Tanner haha) were trying to put a ramp up to drive something into the pond ha The things you do when you live in a small town. But we didn't stick around long enough to see the end result. I thought we would be taking one of them to the hospital if we waited.

When we first got to Cedar, I thought Rush would be really shy around me and Brax because he hasn't seen us in a while but there was no time for that. He got right to givin Brax kisses and hugs. He just loved Brax. It was good practice for him with his sister comin in a week or so. :)

He was also trying to teach Braxton how to use his dog toy. Braxton didn't really care about the toy though...he was too buys looking at the fan! We don't have one of those at our house so that was probably the highlight of the trip for him. haha

We still had baths but he loved to splash around in the "big" bath

I was SOOO glad I brought his little jumper toy. This thing is honestly his FAVORITE thing in the world and even though it was a pain to pack into the car. It was totally worth the trouble. Brax or I wouldn't have survived the trip without it.

We went to the park where Brax stayed in his stroller because there was no shade over by the toys. When I took this picture Braxton looked like a toddler! It is definitely the angle because he doesn't even look close to being this big. haha

We had so much fun! I was very sad when it ended so soon but we were so happy to get back to our house and see Marc! It was the cutest thing ever when Braxton saw Marc for the first time. It took him literally two seconds to figure out who he was looking at and then THE BIGGEST MOST PRECIOUS smile came on his face and he was SOOO EXCITED to see Marc. It was like Christmas day for Braxton and Marc. They sure missed each other. I think Braxton got sick of hanging out with the girls all day. haha Thanks mom and dad for letting us stay! We had a blast! :)

Still Millie!

2011-09-28T20:18:00.001-07:00

No pics but I have to say that we are so excited to say that we went to our 18 week ultrasound and Millie is still Millie!haha I am so glad we live in a big enough city where we could go to a mall and find out we were having a girl way before this appointment. ;) (I say this only because there have been a few skeptics out there about the legitimacy of fetal photo and wishing that it wouldn't work just to prove they were right... I can say that IT'S LEGIT! :) We are just so happy she is healthy and right on track size wise. I was a little anxious to see if this sweet little girl would have to go through all that her older brother Brax has but I think it is safe to say that this pregnancy will be fairly easy...cross your fingers...so far so good! We are so blessed to have such a happy and healthy family!

Just Workin Out

2011-09-18T20:34:00.000-07:00

Tonight Braxton decided that he wanted to workout. Hey, one of us needs to work out in this house...might as well be the baby who NEEDS to gain weight. haha

He started off with a few stretches...foot to mouth.

Once he was warmed up and stretched he went straight to push up!
Next he went for a move that combines both yoga and a little resistance...

Then! Oh My Heck! We couldn't believe it! NO HANDS! He just wanted to show off just how STRONG he is.

For his cool down, he chose to do a full body stretch. Atta boy! Go big or go home :)

Seriously though, Braxton is so amazing! He is really trying to figure the whole crawling thing out and he is doing an awesome job! I think he is going to meet the goal we set for him of crawling by 13 months! He has already moved his arms three times while moving his legs...of course it was when Marc wasn't home and I didn't get it on my camera. Since then he hasn't done it. haha But what he is doing now is fantastic! We are so proud of you Braxton! Our cute little muscle man! :)

To Sleep or Not to Sleep?

2011-09-16T17:43:00.000-07:00

When Marc gets home from school it is a huge event! Braxton gets so excited because he gets to see a new but familiar face, I get a little break, and best of all he gets to play with his dad! He loves to play with Marc and get some man time in but today was a little different...

Braxton started off excited and ready to play. Laughing and smiling here but then two seconds later...
He is out COLD! haha He just fell right to sleep while Marc was playing with him. I don't think that it was anything against his dad but we will never know will we ;) Love ya Brax! Thanks for making everyday so much FUN!

A Little Too Early? I Think Not!

2011-09-16T09:08:00.000-07:00

Sorry in advance for any of you I might offend. I am warning you that if you are a summer lover stop reading because you might throw your computer out the window with my obsession of the CHILLY, GORGEOUS, SWEATER WEARING, PUMPKIN CARVING, time of year!! haha

I truly am early, but I don't care! I just love fall. I don't know about anywhere else but up here in old SLC it is feeling like fall and I say bring it on! I have already decorated my house...a week ago. haha (even with Halloween decor because I can)

The best part of fall for me is honestly EVERYTHING! Here are some of my favorites!

The leaves on the trees! I love when they change colors. The beautiful oranges, yellows, reds, browns. I told Marc that we will be taking a few drives up the canyon to gather some leaves! My favorite thing to do...thanks to my mom! :)
PUMPKINS! These bad boys are the heart and soul of the season. Everything I do during this season revolves around them. They are in my decorations, my candles, my scentsy, my food, and of course the carving! Holy cow these things are versatile! haha Thanks to all of the farmers who grow these plump, orange, delights. :)

The FOOD! Can I just say that every dessert, during this season, I make has either pumpkin, pumpkin, frosting, pumpkin, oh and some apples in it. I am very sad though because this is one time where being impatient really backfired! I used my one can of pumpkin puree that I had stored thinking that I could just go buy more. NOPE! I am a little too early for that to come into the stores I have been to. Today I am on a mission to find a store that is selling it! I am out and I only was able to make two things out of my little can :(

To go along with the food obsession of this time of year...SOUP! I didn't make this soup. Just found this pic on the internet but I have already started the craze. Hopefully Marc doesn't get sick of it because I think it is going to be a weekly trend. There are just so many different soups out there and I have to try them ALL! :)

5 days and counting until fall truly is here (calendar speaking) but me being my over zealous self started way before and I LOVE IT! Fall is the best! It's the precursor to Christmas! Wow, I am getting a little ahead of myself. haha

Love Love Love! Is anyone as obsessed as me or am I just a psycho?

Snapshots of the Past Week

2011-09-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

We have been up to a lot lately...well at least it is a lot for us. haha Last weekend we went and hung out at Megan's and Mike's, we went on a picnic as a family when Marc got a little break, and Braxton and I went to the Utah State Fair with my friend Kayli and her cute little boy Easton! HOWDY YA'LL! We have been having tons of fun since Braxton is feeling better now :)

Marc took this picture on our picnic...Braxton looks so cute!

This was at the state fair. I had only been to the Iron County Fair once because I had to and it was fun but this place was PACKED with things to do. Plus...FOOD FOOD FOOD! ha

This was the Sea Lion show. We didn't have a great view but I captured the atmosphere.

My dang finger kept getting in the way of my little lens on my phone...oh well. Braxton LOVED the fair. haha He loved his stroller mostly.
We went and looked at the animals and this was hilarious. The goats kept poking their heads through the gate and trying to eat things. Kayli almost lost a piece of her dress. haha Caught the goat just in time. ;)

Another great shot. I wish I could say that I can just say "cheese" and Braxton pulls these faces but I am basically a circus act when I am trying to get him to smile. haha

This was at Megan's. Ruthie had these glasses and they are hilarious! The strap was too big to Velcro around Braxton's tiny head. ha He loved them!

Marc and Braxton on our picnic. We found the neatest little grove to go and eat. It's called memorial grove and I had no clue it existed until we went for a drive one day. It's really neat.

The creek that runs through that grove is beautiful!

Braxton wasn't too happy to take the picture with mom.
After a little song and dance we got Braxton to smile. :) Such a cute smile!

We had so much fun going to all of these places. It's amazing how fun the simple things are! I have definitely learned to not over plan anymore...spontaneous is my motto. haha I WISH! But seriously so much fun when you are with family and friends! :)

Labor Day Weekend (Emphasis on the Labor)

2011-09-06T21:28:00.001-07:00

Oh Labor Day. What a wonderful holiday! It's kind of a weird one to like but I have always liked it. Probably because most of time it was spent at the Lake for the last trip of the season or some type of camping acitivity. Mostly, it lets me enjoy the "end" of the summer and brings on my favorite season!!! FALL!

Anyway, to get back to the title of this post, I can't say that this was the most eventful Labor Day weekend of my life. My family came up which was what I had been looking forward to for a whole week! I knew that we would be doing a lot! Sadly, Marc had to study...THE WHOLE WEEKEND (it's ok though, it is for our future!) so it was just going to be me and Brax hanging out with the fam! Well, that worked...ONE DAY! I was so pumped that Angela, Brace, and Rush came up to see our place and go to the zoo! Those passes come in handy man! NO ONE paid!! Woo Woo. It was so much fun to go with them. Rush loved the animals and of course Braxton slept! haha When they left I thought that I would be heading up the mountain for some good ol' dutch oven cookin from my master chef dad but Braxton got SICK! I was so bummed. We had to leave church early and I cried. :( I just wanted to get out of the house and do something! Braxton takes priority though and we stayed home. It was fun to relax but Marc was busy enjoying his studying so it was a sick boy and me.

The next day I thought we could go and at least have a little picnic or something...NOPE! It rained! Honestly I think that I was meant to learn the real meaning of the holiday this year. I did laundry (which takes 4 hours), deep cleaned, showered at 1, my parents did visit on their way home THANKS!, and grocery shopped at 9 at night. Really, I accomplished a lot and should be so proud. I just had high expectations. Oh well. I guess it's called LABOR Day for a reason. Maybe next year...well maybe in the next three years. haha

Me and Brax at the Zoo. He wasn't very happy so I dipped my finger in apple juice and let him have a taste. He HATED it. haha We still had fun...I think he was wishing Marc was there.

Ang and I. PREGO!! haha She looks better than me and she is due in 4 weeks! Jealous! I am so glad they came up to relieve my sanity! I can't wait for little Rylee to get here!!

Rush and Brax. Braxton was just wondering why he keeps ending up in this place (the zoo). haha Even though it's over, I really acutally enjoyed the weekend for the most part. I guess it's what you make it out to be. haha Well now I have decorating for Fall to look forward to. I think this will happen a little before Sept. 21...I just LOVE the holidays!!

Major Growth in Month 9

2011-09-06T10:25:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that Braxton is now TEN MONTHS OLD!!! I am so excited because that means only two more months until his birthday...which means, PARTY PLANNING! haha I am so excited to plan his party and just do what regular moms get to do! :) But until then, we will enjoy every moment of him growing and learning! His ninth month was so eventful! He learned so much and most of it happened on its own! All of sudden stuff just started clicking. Compared to kids his age he is pretty far behind still, but I am so proud of what he has accomplished! When I look at him and think back to where he was and where he is now, it's night and day!! :) I just feel that we are so lucky becuase he isn't growing up too fast. We get to soak up every moment!

During his ninth month, Braxton:

Learned to grab his feet! He can almost bring them up to his mouth!!

Decided to get up on all fours one day and start rocking back and forth! He isn't sitting yet, but crawling works for me ;) He likes to bury his head in the ground and bite his burp cloth. It's just like a puppy! haha

Loved his sunglasses on (inside). Literally wouldn't take them off! He doesn't quite recognize himself in the mirror, but he likes looking at "whoever that is"

Learned that he was going to be a big brother to a sister!! He is so excited ;)

Played with dad on his breaks...he likes to pretend like he is walking haha

Got stuck in the most random places...This one was under the couch. His favorite is under the coffee table. He just kinda scoots backwards until he gets stuck somewhere. haha

Started holding his bottle...he is up to about 80 percent of the time holding it himself!

Tried to eat like a big boy...He doesn't like those little Gerber treats. So I eat them! ha They are good!

The past week he just decided to start eating a half a jar of baby food (either sweet potatoes or bananas so far nothing else) at night

Had a lot of fun in his pack and play...he actually only sleeps on his stomach during the night! AHHH a little scary cuz he will sometimes sleep face DOWN!!

Went on his first four wheeler ride with dad! Didn't realize what was going on but he will get there knowing Marc. :)

Played with his cousins... Here he is with Brock. Brock was almost bigger than him, I am sure he is now! Brock is so cute!!

Braxton and Rush went to the Zoo together! Rush is so cute with him! He loves to poke his eyes cuz he knows where eyes are! haha He is going to be such a good big brother!

He a Ruthie also played a few times! Ruthie is always good with him she even feeds him his bottle (she will shake the bottle, like she is making it, take the lid off, put it in his mouth for two seconds, and takes it away! It is hilarious! She is so so so darling!)

A few more things he learned to do (no pics):

Bite! Not on purpose but I he has almost drawn blood a few times haha

Whine/grunt when Marc or I leave the room

Communicate different grunts to get what he wants. The best one is his "I want to be picked up" grunt

Help mom with the dishes. He loves to sit in his bumbo at the side of the sink and watch me do dishes. He will now throw things in the sink (not on purpose but it's hilarious)

Make mom melt...he will look up at me and kind of whine cuz he wants to be picked up! I love it but I end up not getting much done. haha

So so so much was accomplished during his ninth month! I am sure I am forgetting something but really, he just was doing so much! Month ten has a lot of promise!!! I love you buddy boy!!

Tubes Round 2

2011-09-06T10:02:00.000-07:00

Oh Braxton...if only we could've skipped what happened this morning. It's your ten month old birthday for crying out loud!

At 6:45 this morning Braxton had to get his tubes replaced in his ears. Before we got to the hospital though, I drove around Salt Lake City to put him to sleep. haha He did FANTASTIC this morning (thank goodness because I was by myself this time) but even though we have been through this multiple times...it only gets harder to starve your child! ha Hopefully this is the LAST TIME we will have to mess with his ear tubes. I handed off the little man to the doctor he was gassed to be put to sleep.

P.S. I guess this stuff really makes them mad when they wake up. When the anesthesiologist told me this, I just nodded my head and thought it couldn't be that bad...guess again! haha

When I left him it was sad but I am used to it by now. I totally trust the doctors and he seems to be just fine when I leave him but when I was walking down the hall all of these workers kept coming up to me and telling me that he was in good hands and that I shouldn't worry. haha I don't know if I looked worried, but I wasn't. Maybe I just looked like it because I was SOOOO tired. I wanted to tell them that I had been through worse...tubes are nothin compared to the other procedures. haha Once I got in the recovery room and at that point he was sound asleep, so peacful, but then the sleeping giant woke up! He was so sad!!! He wanted his bottle so bad but on the other hand he was too sad to take the bottle. Once he got enough sugar water down him, he stopped crying, fell right to sleep and we went home. Sleeping still :) He deserves all the rest he can get. I might just take a nap too. haha

We got to the hospital...woke up happy as a lark...
had a few sad moments (no picture needed)

Soon it was all over! He looked so peacful until he woke up. I would be mad too if I woke up with a mask covering my face! Claustrophobia anyone??

So proud of this little guy!!! He is a trooper! :)

Bows and Nail Polish

2011-08-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

IT'S A GIRL!!! Woo Woo! We were way too impatient with finding out the gender so we went to this Fetal Photo place at the mall and even though I am 14 weeks...we just had to find out!! We are so excited!!! I need to start making bows and buy more nail polish! haha I cannot wait! She is going to be such a good help with Braxton and will always keep him in line ;) haha Isn't that what girls do best?

Little Millie Kaye

First Day of School!

2011-08-24T14:53:00.001-07:00

It's official! Marc started Dental School! Yay! He is already really busy but it will be worth it in the end! :) I am just so proud of what he has accomplished and all that he will accomplish. It's crazy that this day finally came...it sure was a long time coming but it is amazing how the Lord works and how perfect his plan is. We were waiting and waiting last year to hear from schools and we got discouraged because he was perfectly qualified to get into schools. He interviewed at 5 schools and didn't get into one (kind of unheard of)! Now looking back at what has happened in a year's time, we now know that the Lord had a plan (always does) and it just took us having our amazing son Braxton to realize how blessed we were that we got to take a year off, take care of all of Braxton's needs and just enjoy each other. This past year has been amazing and now that we are moving on, it's a little bitter sweet but we are already adjusting nicely and Braxton and I can't wait for Marc to get home each night to spend some time with him. This is going to be an adventurous 4 years and it will fly by so we are going to do our best to not wish time away and just realize that our situation is a wonderful one! We love you Marc! Thanks for all of your hard work! :)

First day of school pics...gotta have em (even at 6 something in the morning haha)

Braxton and Marc...Braxton is contemplating wether or not he wants dad to leave. He loves it when Marc gets home! He gets all excited! :)

2011-08-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

You may be wondering why Braxton is so HAPPY...Marc and I sat him down the other night and had a chat with him. We told him...

That he is going to BE A BIG BROTHER!!! February 27!
We couldn't be happier! I am 13 weeks and haven't been sick at all but I eat ALL the time! haha It was planned and we are so blessed that Braxton will have a little friend and protector! It is crazy how things come together! WE ARE SO EXCITED!
It is great because my SIL Megan is having a boy in January and our friends in Dental School are due two weeks after us! This baby will have friends galore! :)

Hearing Test

2011-08-21T18:55:00.001-07:00

On Thursday Braxton had to go in for a sedated hearing test. We had to go through the whole process of not feeding him before hand which wasn't too bad this time just because he is getting a little bigger, that's a big plus! The negative about this procedure is that now that he is getting bigger, he is realizing pain and wants to get right on out of the situation (I don't blame him). Anyway, he keeps failing his left hearing test which is causing him to not look toward sound. It is kind of funny sometimes because we will be calling his name and he will act like nothing is going on. haha I guess you gotta be there.

But before he got the test they had to sedate him which meant an IV had to be placed. I am a little irritated and need to vent because Marc and I have seen this done many of times and we know that the best place to find a vein is his left foot! He has the thickest, chubbiest skin, so cute, but it is hard to find veins so we just made sure we remembered the best place. The IV team comes in and I tell them the best place is his left foot. Of course...what was I thinking, I am only the mom and have seen them misplace IV after IV before! Anyway, they go straight for the hand, nothing. Braxton is so sad and just bawling. We say it one more time, but EGO gets in some of these people's way and they go for a different location. Finally, Marc has to get a little angry at them before they will listen and they put it right in! I am so bugged by people sometimes. I know it is their job but Marc and I have seen this happen too many times and we just know. It was just awful to see little Brax having to be pinned down while they poke around! :( After that he was pooped and they hadn't even started. He fell to sleep right after doing a little wimper cry (which he has recently learned and it is very sad).

The tech and I getting Braxton ready...Braxton so tired after the IV incident...

The audiologist got us the results right after and explained what the problem was...the test came out inconlusive! haha We will unfortunately have to go back and repeat this process once the doctor checks his ears to make sure there isn't any fluid in his ears. We truly are learning some major patience with doctors and with Braxton's condition. We basically have to take it one day at a time. I am getting used to this lifestyle though...I feel liberated! I am such a planner and have to have my day all planned out but I am liking this change. I feel like I am living on a beach (which I am not even close to) relaxing and not letting unplanned mishaps completely ruin my day! I think I could get used to this! :) Heavenly Father helps us learn things in such unexpected ways!

Dream Come True

2011-08-14T20:05:00.001-07:00

This has been MY DREAM! To own one of these bad boys...well I really wanted a legit piano but since we are low on space and money, I decided this would be sufficient for the time being! I am so excited to have this beauty in my room! haha That is the only place we had room but I have been wanting to start up the talent I once had since I got married. This is the best thing ever!!! Hey, maybe during the long winter months up here in SLC I could get more out of this thing than I did with 12 years of lessons! haha TRULY A DREAM COME TRUE! YAY! :)

Thanks Marc for letting me get this...Early Christmas Present! ;)

Who Knew?!

2011-08-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

You know when you are just having one of those days when you feel BLAH! well it's those days when you're husband surprises you with his artistic abilities, uses your jewelry to create it, puts it on the floor so you see it when you walk in, and makes you're day so much brighter! haha I don't know where it came from but I think it has potential...man I love my hubby. I can't help but smile when I look at it. haha
Let's just hope his inspiration wasn't me! haha

HOGLE ZOO

2011-08-07T15:12:00.001-07:00

When we moved up to SLC I was trying to think of things that Brax and I would be able to do while Marc was in school. So, I was thinking that we should get a zoo pass so that I could take him as much as I wanted! It is a mile up our street so I decided that we needed to get one. The first time we went, Megan and Melissa, along with their husbands and kids, came up and we went to Hogle Zoo. It was fun! With our pass we were able to get another adult and kid in free! DEAL! haha It was a blast though! I had never been to a zoo before so this "small" zoo was perfect! I was told that the zoo was really just farm animals (Becky my SIL told me this as a joke...I really was worried that that's all it was going to be) but I was pleasantly surprised!

Here we are at the Elephants

I LOVED LOVED the Giraffes!

Braxton liked the Giraffes too! Actually, he didn't really even notice the animals, just dads arm moving up and down. haha

He LOVED the train ride. ha

His favorite exhibit was his stroller, where he slept most of the time. haha

Cousin photo!

Braxton and I with the monkeys. Little Micah loved these monkeys! The best comment of the day was when he saw one of the monkeys with its hands on the other monkey's head and Micah as sweet and perfect minded as could be says, "Look! That monkey is giving the other one a blessing!" haha That really was the best thing ever! Melissa, you are teaching them right!! :) Even though Braxton didn't really know or care what was going on, it was so fun to watch Halie, Micah and Ruthie recognize and just love the animals!

It was so fun to have everyone come up and go to the zoo! I will keep bringing Braxton here so if anyone wants to come up...free ticket! haha

Adventures in Month 8

2011-08-07T15:08:00.000-07:00

Braxton's 8th month FLEW by! It's crazy that he is almost One! I can't think about it though or it makes me sad...so I will focus on what he did while 8 months old. :)

while 8 months old Braxton...

Got both of his front teeth (Pic below) He might just smile like this...we will need to work on it. haha It looks so cute with his two little buck teeth

He also started to get his 5th tooth!

started to like his jumpy...10 min at a time but he is starting to realize that it's pretty fun. When he can actually touch the ground he can start jumping!

learned to do push ups...

Found that any hanging toy is his favorite...we hung this on his car seat and he can stay in there for a while if we let him. ha

started liking our rod iron bed. I will lay him on our bed and he looks at it and starts laughing. haha He likes the most random things.

wanted to start being more independent and started grabbing and holding his bottle. He is up to a few minutes at a time (as long as he doesn't find his hand and let go)

Rolled over and did push ups...can't quite roll himself back over.
Learned that big cups in his face kinda scare him...we have a cup for his bath too and he is so scared of it. haha

Still loved to laugh...Nice Grill son!

Loved to look at trees (only from underneath)

Started liking glasses...Stylin! He really liked them! He wouldn't take them off!

Still liked the move where we move our hand up and down in front of his face and laughs histarically!

Other things Braxton did during month 8...

continue to love his lay down toy

made it to 14 lbs (FINALLY)

got a double ear infection :( So much for tubes!

still was in 2 diapers

would eat food every once in a while (about three tablespoons)

learned how to say he wants me to pick him up...grunts over and over. haha

Braxton is doing very good! He is learning and growing! He is so much fun!

Side note: in our ward we have two babies that were born a few days after Brax and it is amazing to see what an 8 month old should be able to do! It's hard to think that Brax is behind when we are with him all day and see what wonderful things he is accomplishing but when we put him next to kids his age who are waving, crawling, saying mama and dada, clapping, sitting, playing with toys and all that good stuff, it kind of puts things into perspective (milestone wise). Marc and I just sit back and kind of laugh. Braxton is just too much fun and really, we are lucky to have him where he is! He has learned so much and has surpassed kids like him. I love that we get to have him smaller for a little longer! We are so proud to be his parents! We Love you Braxton! :)

California

2011-08-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been FOREVER since I updated this here blog but now that all of last months adventures are done, I figure I should catch up. :) Before Marc starts dental school we wanted to get as much traveling and family events in as possible so we decided to drive down south and go to California and then on our way home stay in Cedar. When we got to Cali our first thing on the agenda was to let Braxton have a little play date with this BEAUTIUL little girl! (Braxton got his ability to get girls from his dad...it must be the looks. haha) Really though, Jordan (Marc's family friends' little girl) and Brax had some fun...as you can see in the pictures. haha p.s. Jordan is about three months younger than Brax! He is so tiny... It was hilarious! Jordan was just leaning all over Braxton and he didn't even notice...he knows how to play hard to get! :)

A few days into the trip the boys went to Bass Pro (a couple of times actually) and Brax went along. Get some male bonding time...he loved the fish!

We had so much fun at the pool! It was SO HOT when we were there so we made sure we got some pool time in.

Braxton Lounging...

The water was cold at first but he loved it when he got used to it.

This was his first time without his little swimming shirt and he will never swim with it again! I think he loves the feel of the water on his skin cuz he had a lot more fun without it.

Marc jumping off of his parents deck! I am surprised he is still alive with all of the things that they used to do...ha

We had a BLAST in California and I am so glad that Ruth and Rande live there so we have somewhere fun to visit! Thanks for letting us stay! Can't wait to get down there again! :)

3 Below!

2011-07-08T22:29:00.001-07:00

Wolf Creek...Never Heard of It!

2011-07-08T21:51:00.001-07:00

For the 4th of July weekend my family decided that we were going to go to Wolf Creek up Ogden Canyon. I had never been there and to be honest...It was GREAT! We had so much fun! We stayed in my parents time share and it had everything we needed. We played tennis (a great sport to play when you are a has been athlete haha), a pool, horse shoes, shopping 7 miles down to Ogden, a good bed and a fantastic game of catch phrase! It really was so much fun to all get together! My SIL Becky has family up in Huntsville which is way close and she always has fun up there so I knew we would be in for a treat!

Thanks Mom and Dad for making it such an awesome weekend!!! :)

We went to the pool and let's just say that I am the black sheep (White sheep in this situation) in the family! I hate taking pictures with these two because they let my true white color shine. Cub is showing off those fantastic abs, Ang is Pregnant and looks better than me in a swimsuit and I still braved the pool! haha I still went and had a blast! This was the 4th of July Parade in Hunstville. It was similar to Cedar but with less advertisements haha

Braxton didn't like it at first...
Then he got used to it...after the cannons went off! You forget how loud parades are when you don't have a baby!
This sweet lady from California made him this blanket and gave him his first 4th outfit. It was so cute and a great idea for showers!

After the parade just chillinI'm a little nervous that these two always look gangsta haha

After all of the festivities of the day we drove home to our new apt. and watched a little Rocky IV! That is my FAVORITE of the series...The best is where Rocky heads over to Russia to fight Drako and trains like a made horse! Sylvester gets you motivated me to get into shape! haha Anyway... 9:30 rolled around and then I realized that we needed to get out and watch the fireworks! It's tradition! So we went and got a 5 piece from Wendys and since we didn't know a specific spot in SLC to watch fireworks so, we went where we went to where we knew best (Primary Children's Parking Garage which overlooks the whole valley) and watched the whole Salt Lake Valley LIGHT UP! It wasn't like we were watching a huge display of fireworks right above our head but it was amazing in a different way...You could pan the whole valley as far as the eye could see and watch these little balls of light pop in the sky. I would say THOUSANDS of fireworks were going off at 10 o'clock exactly. It was really cool!

Braxton was in his car seat and I kept saying "happy 4th of July" to him and this was his reaction! He loved his 4th! haha

Last Days in St. George

2011-07-08T21:35:00.001-07:00

Before we moved from the sunny St. George, we had to get a few more things in. We went to the pool with the Melissa and the cousins and then we got together for tacos! It was very convenient to be so close to family and that is one thing we are going to miss. The good thing though is that Megan, Mike and Ruthie are not too far being 40 min away. It will be fun! :)

Halie and Braxton hangin in the pool. Halie is such a little Model! Braxton LOVES the pool!

The two cousins...Braxton still has Brock by a little ;)

We will miss the good ol' south but we have so many adventures ahead of us! I can't wait! SLC better be ready for the McRaes! haha

Month 7

2011-07-08T21:04:00.001-07:00

Braxton's 7th month came and went...It really went so fast with all of our activities during the month and packing. He has accomplished so much! He definitely is showing more of his little personality and we can't get enough of him! Braxton is mostly smiling and enjoying his laydown toy that he has had since month two. haha He just might be using that until he is four...that might be his little blanket that we have to carry everywhere. HA It is so crazy how quickly he is growing and learning so much...

During his 7th month, Braxton:

Learned how to roll to one side...He cannot go from belly to back but he will get there! :)

His two front teeth started coming in

Got even more ticklish

His love for ceiling fans grew even more (we don't have one in our new apt. but I think we can find something to put on the ceiling)

still was in the zero percentile. You GO BRAXTON! He likes to create his own curve!

Held his bottle for 30 seconds

Grabbed for his favorite monkey on his laydown toy

stood probably 80% of the time he was awake (he loves to stand)

Slept through the night twice (8 hours baby!)

Got tired of doing physical therapy but it works!

Knows Marc and I's voice and mimicks our face when we do dumb grins. haha

Grew out of his 3 month outfits...finally!

started to eat regular formula

Started brushing his teeth and taking flouride...he actually likes it!

Didn't quite get to 14 lbs...that's ok buddy! :)

In about a two week period he just started doing so much! We are so proud of him and what he has accomplished in his 7 short months. I can't wait to see what the 8th month has instore.

Tried to fit both thumbs in his mouth...you can only suck on one at a time! haha

Strike a pose...vogue!

This was his first night sleeping through the night. It absolutely scared Marc and I because he flipped over in the night and he can't get back over. He sure seemed to like his stomach though.

This is him grabbing his Red Monkey Fred! He loves that guy!

Rolling...

Made it over...this was taken before he started freaking out because he couldn't get off his stomach. haha

Completely worn out from doing all of his exercises.

Yay for Braxton! We Love you and are proud of all you have accomplished! Keep it up Buddy!

Two Posts Below...Two More Tomorrow!

2011-07-07T22:15:00.001-07:00

PROGRESS!

2011-07-07T21:42:00.001-07:00

We are officially moved out of our mansion of an apartment in St. George and moved into our 650 sq. ft. apartment HAHA. I KNOW! I can't believe it was so quick ! I thought we were leaving Julyish and Augustish but once again...plans are only as good as a loaf of bread. You think the loaf is perfect and ready to eat and then just when you least expect it...MOLD! Haha ( I know that was an awful analogy but it's what came to mind) The Lord knows best!

Real quick: for all of you who thought I was living in Vegas, we are now in SLC, and I know it could get really confusing becuase in one years time, we moved FOUR times! We are VERY good at moving. :)

Here is the kitchen of our St. George apt. It was so fun! I loved the community and the weather! It was a HUGE 3 bed 2 bath had a ginormous kitchen and now...

Here we are!!! haha You honestly can see our whole apartment in this one picture! ha We love it though. We walked in and I got a little nervous...just for a sec (just about how I was going to feed my family)...but it will be a fun place to live! The neighbors are uber nice and there is everything a little broke family needs. They have a playground out in the courtyard, family fun activities, and a mom group! haha It is amazing! Everyone is in the same situation here. All of the husbands are going to some type of graduate school at the U of U and so we (as wives) can all relate. We are so close to Marc's school and Braxton's Doctor appointments. It is such a fun adventure! I can't wait to look back on these times and I know we will long for the simple life. We are going to enjoy every moment that we have...even if you can shower in your kitchen (multitasking). We are only going to be here for 10 months and then we are off to OMAHA! YAY! I love PROGRESSION! I love how this is all working out for our little family and I love that Marc can get back to doing what he loves...STUDYING! Haha So, if any of you are up north anytime call me up and we can go get lunch! :)

Our kitchen, livingroom, both bedrooms, and bathroom right around the corner! It's amazing how creative you can be trying to fit all of your crap into a little space!!

We are on the bottom floor...but we have the best natural light!

Our living room and kitchen...I couldn't believe how furniture and our decorations made everything feel like home! I love our little home! :)

The last thing we need to do is hang pictures. I found out that hanging pictures in cinderblock walls is definitely harder than I thought.

HOME SWEET HOME! 10 months will fly by! :)

*Special thanks to Megan, Mike, and Ruthie! They helped us move in, in one day! They were so helpful and Megan helped me get things into Feng Shuai (if that's how you spell it) position. haha can't wait to hang out!

Three Years!

2011-07-07T21:24:00.001-07:00

I can't believe that Marc and I have been married THREE YEARS! It has flown by and so much has happened in the short time! There have been mostly happy times and a few sad/scary times but I wouldn't change it for anything.

To celebrate this wonderful occasion first: I had to leave my little Braxton! Now that was hard... but it needed to happen. He was left in good hands though (Matt and Becky) and we got pics of him enjoying his time away from mom and dad. Second: we went to Texas Roadhouse!!! MY FAVORITE PLACE EVER! Third: we went to Tuacahn for The Little Mermaid!

(Now looking back this was an anniversary all about what I like...maybe next year Marc you can decide haha) Marc acutally liked the show! It was amazing! I was wondering how they were going to make it look like they were under water and they didn't fail me. . . they were very creative and it almost tied with the Disney version.

Here we are waiting for the play to start...

THE WATER CAME ONTO THE STAGE!

Here is the ship...Mysterious Fathoms Below! haha

Finale!

Everything was amazing! It was a lot of fun and I think I allowed myself to eat the worst food possible but it was worth it! I was thankful though when it was over...I sure missed the little man! That was the longest I had been away from him. Let's just say I am not going to look for ways to leave that chunkie, smiling, handsome boy! haha

Thanks for an amazing THREE YEARS MARC! I LOVE YOU!

TO MARC:

2011-06-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

Since it is Marc's first Father's Day...I thought he deserved a little shout out for being such an amazing father and husband! Here it goes baby! haha

From day one of finding out we were pregnant with Brax, Marc was there. When we found out about the problems Braxton might have at our 18 week appt., Marc was there. He squeezed my hand during the amnio, he came to all of the Dr. appointments, and perinatologist appt. He was always there. LOYAL, STRONG, and full of FAITH and LOVE. I couldn't have done all that without him and it wasn't until Braxton was born, that i knew it wouldn't go away. Traveling 11 hours to get to SLC, when I was labor, 8 more hours of waiting by my side and then it happened...little 4 lb 14 oz 17 1/2 in. Braxton Rosell was born! Braxton wasn't doing good (at all) when he was born. He was limp and couldn't breathe, but did I find any of this out at the time...NO! Marc was so CALM and was right next to him watching all these things happen to Braxton that I wouldn't have been able to handle. Marc gave Braxton his first little blessing during the first couple of nights at the hospital. He made sure that our little son wasn't alone. Marc just connected with Braxton on a level I will never know. The whole month Braxton was in the NICU Marc was there, he helped with I.V. s, he held Braxton's hand when I couldn't watch him have trouble breathing, he prayed for him, he took picture after pciture trying to make him look gangsta haha, he learned how to place a feeding tube. When Braxton came home, he rant to the store at 3 in the morning to buy a thermometer the first night he came home, he didn't sleep an ounce just so he could watch Braxton take breath after breath, and the list goes on and on. Marc is the PERFECT dad for Braxton. They are BEST buddies and love it when mom leaves so they can have man time. Marc was meant to be a dad and has been so wonderful. He is just as on top of things, if not sometimes more, than I am about Braxton's schedule and what his needs are. To this day, Marc hasn't missed one Dr. appt. Braxton is his little bud and will always be. I am so THANKFUL for a TERRIFIC husband who takes his job as a dad seriously and will continue to be one with all of our kids as we continue to build our family. We are so BLESSED and our little family is so lucky to have Marc be the head of it. THANK YOU Marc for always being there for Braxton and for me! HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! WE LOVE YOU!

When Braxton was born Marc was right there watchin over him

Gangsta! ha

First night home

Blessing Day

This was after the 3 am run to the store... :)

Like father like son!

Marc always makes Braxton laugh

Chillin

I tried to take these pics...They turned out ok. haha Daddy son time!

Our little Family!

THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO MARC!

You Would Think I Went to Hawaii!

2011-06-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

For the LONGEST time I have been wanting to go on an overnighter with Marc and Brax. Just a little getaway to break up the day to day and also get in as much before Marc starts school in August. The only problem of trying to make this work is was not having extra money to go and have some fun! Well...my prayers were answered! Ruth and Rande had a hotel down in Vegas at the Encore and for one night they wouldn't be using it. They asked all the kids if anyone wanted it and basically I jumped at the opportunity! (literally jumped for joy) I was overwhelmed with excitement and really you would think I had just won a trip to Hawaii! Marc leaned over and said, "If this is all it takes to get you excited about a vacation we can go on a vacation all the time!" I wouldn't go that far...I do want to go to a tropical island one day but it works until Marc finishes school. haha

Braxton before we get on the road...had to pull out the cute tank top outfit.
Right when we got there we hopped right into our swimsuits and headed to the pool! It was Braxton's first time at the pool so I was so excited and a little nervous about how it would go.
HE LOVED IT!!!!

Full of EXCITEMENT! HA

He especially loved laying out.

After the pool we went to Olive Garden (Thanks to Ruth's early anniversary gift) and brought it back and watched the Heat and Dallas play...Let's just say it was a GREAT night cuz Dallas won!

This was the view from our 54th floor window :)

Braxton loved the view!

The next morning we went straight to the pool and once again...He was so happy to be in the water! I think he thought it was huge bathtub. haha I didn't think this would be the case because right when we got there he got bit by a bug (i don't know what kind. Not poisonous!) He freaked out for like twenty min! I felt so bad!

This is him laughing...looks like he is crying.

After playing so hard in the pool, he fell right to sleep! IN THE WATER! haha

It's kind of hard to see but he got bit right on the forehead. It left a little welt! :(

It was the best overnighter ever! I loved every minute of it! Braxton loved it too! I am just so GRATEFUL for the room and for everything! We had a B.L.A.S.T! Thanks Ruth and Rande!

Physical Therapy

2011-06-11T18:53:00.000-07:00

Braxton had his first Physical Therapy appointment since before his surgery. We were super nervous that he wouldn't be very pleasant because for some reason he just doesn't like it...I wonder why with all of the stretching and rolling around. haha But we went and he did SUPER! He is showing progress with sitting and rolling!!! His arms are a little short so if he tries to prop himself up with his arms he is almost touching the ground with his nose. haha He will get it though! I am so proud of the little guy! I love how happy he is even when we are poking and prauding him and forcing him to do things that are hard! He has the will of a work horse. haha After his session he laid there and and fell right to sleep! We have a hard time getting him to sleep at home...I think we will be buying one of those mats. :)

Out like a light!!!

1/2 Way There!

2011-06-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

Braxton! You have flown through your 6th month already!

Getting older each day but looking back at his 1/2 way mark it went so fast and he accomplished so so much!

At sixth months Braxton...

*got his second tooth

*had his spinal cord surgery and did so WELL!

*got tubes in his ears...HEARS everything now!

*learned to yell (more like growl haha)

*got another hair cut

*before his surgery...started to eat 4 ounces consistently

*tried baby food...hated cereal and peas but loved sweet potatoes

AFTER his surgery...

*sat in his bumbo for 30 min without crying

*loves his jumper toy now

*learned how to make a sad face

*didn't like baby food anymore

*got the FLU two days after we got home from the hospital and lost a pound

*gained the pound back :)

*forgot how to stand (got a little worried ha)

*remembered how to stand! Yay!

*HE SAYS MOM!!! It's more like a mum sound with a growl but I can hear it! haha

Braxton standing and looking at Dad

Dad and Brax at the hospital... Straight Thuggin!

Hanging out with the boys watching the Lakers game!
True fan through and through :)

Sitting in the Kayak

I think he thinks he is driving the Jumper

He went chair shopping with the guys at Sportsmans and he knows what he wants...

This is the one! haha Thanks Grandpa McRae! :) Perfect for the Beaver Trip...Next Year!

WE are so excited that Braxton is 1/2 way to one! He has been through so many trials but smiles right on through! We learn something new each day and teaches us all how child like faith can get you through any adversity! :) Thanks Brax for laughing with your mom and dad's not funny jokes and weird faces...You sure are an AMAZING little guy! Love You!

Three New Posts Below...OVERLOAD!

2011-06-02T19:22:00.001-07:00

BUZZZZZZ

2011-06-02T18:58:00.001-07:00

If anyone was near my house the other night...you would have heard the buzzing sound of the hair clippers cuz... Braxton got his first BUZZ! He is only 6 months old and has had three haircuts! I guess that's what happens when the hubby runs his own barber shop (maybe one day Marc :)) I was a little skeptical at first but I gave in and Marc got the go ahead! One buzzing noise later and I was bawling! I have no clue why I was so sad but he looked like a cancer patient to me (Hit a little close to home)! It was just too much too soon...He really does look so so cute but it took me awhile to get used to not seeing his long locks. haha

{Before}

{After}

I think the buzz makes him pull funny faces haha

He looked at me and smiled his little toothy grin and basically reminded me that it doesn't matter what length of hair he has...He is always going to be the cutest little boy EVER! We sure do love you Brax!!!

CuB JeAn, CuBbErS, MaNcUb, AMANDA!

2011-06-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

I had to post a couple pics of my little sista! She graduated last friday and I am so dang proud of her!!! She is GORGEOUS, SMART, SO TALENTED (on and off any court or field), and SUCH A GREAT SIS! I am so lucky to have and older and a younger sister to look up to! She is going to have so much fun in college! I keep tellin her though...the guys will be callin left and right to go on a date with those long legs, tan skin, pretty smile, thoughtful and hilarious personality (I cry laughing anytime I am with her)! haha I am totally jokin...Kyler is such a great catch (below)! Just saying that the best times are in college and I can't wait to see her reach her amazing potential in life! Love ya cub jean! :)

Kyler, Amanda, and Little Rushtyn (NEPHEW)! HAHA

Local National Geographic

2011-06-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

The other night, Marc, Braxton and I were enjoying some time together and I happen to peek out my window and I see the weirdest looking thing! It was a bird! haha I know a bird...not just any bird though, a HAWK! I couldn't believe my eyes! Just right out on our little neighborhood road. But really the weirdest thing was that it wouldn't move. He was standing on something and when I took this picture the truth came out...I had just witnessed a murderer caught in the act! He had just killed one of the beautiful doves that makes sweet music in the morning for us!! :( I know it is nature and all...it could be pretty cool even, but I couldn't get over the fact that life just moved on. The dove wasn't missed. The only thing left was it's feathers. Marc, being the man he is, told me to go pick some up for some free feathers for my hair! I know...SAD!

5 minutes later, neighborhood kids were out playing and it's a good thing they didn't see the crime scene (it had blown away). It's a cruel world in the animal kingdom.

48 Hours later...

2011-05-20T08:44:00.000-07:00

Braxton was happy as a lark this morning! Probably because he got his epidural taken out, his oxygen off, and his IV out! We are dropping cords like flies! I had to do his hair so he looked good layin there. hahaThis is his surgery site...The little wire lookin thing is his epridural before they took it out. I watched that too and didn't faint! I might be getting better with the whole squeamish thing!
This was this morning when they took his bandage off! Let's just say that the doctor underestimated how big the incision would be. When he explained it he help his hand up and showed us an inch tops on how big the cut would be...looking at it now its about three times that big!! But it all looks good! haha *Sorry for the noncensorship in the pic. I guess a little bootie never hurt anyone.

As soon as they rebandaged him the Neurosurgeon gave us the go ahead to finally hold the little man! Talk about torture...I have never gone even close to five hours without holding Brax! That killed us not being able to hold and snuggle him!

Right when I held him he was just so happy. He was smilin up a storm. I think he missed it too! ;)

Love you Buddy!
The dynamic duo back together again! Braxton was so happy to be with his dad! They have way too much fun together. haha

He is now sleeping in his bed...I think it was a lot of excitement in one hour. haha The doctors were really positive about him likely going home in the morning! Cross your fingers! :)

Surgery!

2011-05-19T09:09:00.000-07:00

Braxton's surgery was yesterday and is THANKFULLY over! Now he is just in recovery which isn't very fun because of how much pain he is in! Poor little guy! It sure is crazy how much he tolerates now...sadly I think it's just from having to deal with it his whole 6 months of life but he is such a trooper and was smiling (once the anethesia had worn off) last night! I love this little guy! He definitely teaches us lessons each day. We are so thankful for amazing doctors and staff who do everything to make him better. Our Neurosurgeon is fantastic! He has been doing his job for 42 years so no worries there...he knows exactly what needs to be done. Marc and I have been sleeping on and off taking turns so one of us can be with Braxton at all times. Even though the nurses know what they are doing we still know Braxton and his needs so we make sure we stay involved with everything! As much as it would be nice to let the nurses take over...I just can't. I am too much of a mom now to let others take care of my baby! haha

This is Braxton at 8 am. At this point, it's only been an hour since his last drop of pedialite. He sure is happy hanging with dad! Little did he know that everything was going to be bad news for a while. :(

This is 30 min. later trying to get him to calm down so they can document that he is getting enough oxygen. It was really hard because he would go purple holding his breath cuz he was crying so bad...all they were doing was putting a thing on his foot. haha He knows exactly what is going on at this point. I am sure he was having NICU and surgery flash backs! I don't blame him for crying! You cry all you want buddy! He went to sleep about ten minutes later.

About an hour after that this was him (his so so cute hospital garb! I didn't think they made them so little and he looked so darling!!): content, chillin with mom, I thought we were in the clear! Literally 2 min after this picture he wasn't having it. The hunger pangs kicked in! I felt so bad because we couldn't explain to him why we were having to starve him (this is the worst part of surgery...bar none)! Marc took him for a while and like the amazing dad he is, he put him right back to sleep. :)

We handed the little man off to the anethesiologist and two ear tubes and one tethered spinal cord fixed later...

Braxton was in his hospital bed hooked up to all of these monitors. I am sure he was trying to devise a plan on how to get out and run away! haha They gave him a baby epidural! It is the tiniest thing! For a while he couldn't move his legs...if it's anything like when you are in labor there is no moving! He got plenty of rest and his little toys sure kept him company! He loves his toys! He looks pretty relaxed! haha My only complaint is that he will get so comfy and cozy like this and then the nurse comes in and has to wake him up and, most of the time, be pretty rough with him. I know they have to do their job but it sure is hard seeing him so happy.

This morning at like 3:30 he woke up and I was feeding him he was about to go back to sleep and the nurse came in and said he had kicked his iv out! Then she says that he has to have it put back in! I was so sad for him I told the iv team that his veins are really hard to find so try his left foot again...three pokes later they finally put it in his left foot. Braxton was in so much pain! Marc was sleeping and I don't do well with needles...but mom power pulls through and I didn't faint! Woo Hoo! haha

Thank goodness the surgery is over! Yay for Braxton!!!

Thanks for all of your love, support, and prayers! HOPEFULLY this is his last surgery...EVER!!! :)

Shoe

2011-05-16T18:52:00.000-07:00

Hey there little shoe! How in the world did you get on my back wall?! I would love to give you a home but you are just way too big! I mean it's not like you aren't cute or anything but you don't have a match, you are so dirty and I just cleaned my house. I am so sorry but you are just going to have to find your true owner! Try a couple of houses down. :) But I have to ask, why our house? Why choose our wall to perch on? We don't have much to offer...
I must say though, I am quite flattered you chose our wall! Thanks for finding the good in us and our little home. By now you are gone and moved on to, hopefully, your rightful owner but thanks for stopping by. We will miss you watching over our back fence possibly keeping the birds from pooping on it.

I chuckled every time I walked by. Thanks for the laughs (mostly laughs), the memories, and most of all for just being there even during wind storms! ha

Good times, good times.

Identical...Don't ya think?

2011-05-14T19:56:00.001-07:00

We are just chillin at Megan's and Ruthie (my cute little niece) was playing with her doll. I thought the doll looked identical to Braxton...so we took pictures! haha He was actually that exact size when he was born! Crazy how much he has grown! He is hilarious! It's funny how fixated he gets on things cuz he didn't even notice the doll laying next to him! haHe was that size in the NICU 4 lbs 14 oz 17 in long...Now 12 lbs 4 oz 23 in long! Yay for Braxton!

This is really random but I wanted to post these pictures of Braxton. He is just a head in these pics but what a cute little head he has! I could take pictures all day! I kind of do :)

He is the most amazing boy! He is getting prepared for his big surgery next Wednesday so we are just trying to get him fat and chubby so he doesn't lose too much weight! Hope you can tell! He still is the size of a doll but what a handsome little studmuffin! :)

Month 5

2011-05-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

Oh how time flies! I can't believe that my little boy (who is still little) has reached his 6 month mark! He is sooooo much fun! We just love him to death! It is that time again to now reflect on his fifth month of life and all that he has achieved!

At 5 months Braxton...

Made it through all of his follow up doctor appointments with a smile (three days worth!)

Learned how to blow raspberries

Slept 6 hours at night...Majority of the time haha

Rolled onto his left side

Got another fade

Loved to stand

Sat in his bumbo without crying for 10 min!

Continued to SMILE and LAUGH!

Reaches for Mom and Dad's face

Watches mom and dad walk out of the room :)

Bath time at Aunt Megan's

Happy as a lark

Chillin with dad

Loved to stick out his tongue... Still does

At his Cardiology appointment...

He was so happy! All he wanted to do was play! haha wish I could be happy when I go to the doctor. He teaches me something new everyday! Love this little man! :)

I have Officially Lost My Mind!!! (Post Below)

2011-04-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

2011-04-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

It was amazing! My fake crown was all laid out, popcorn popped, tea and scones made, pillow and favorite blanket ready. My phone buzzed at 2 am. I woke and up ran to the television. It was the moment I had been waiting for, for over 120 days! That’s right everyone…I witnessed history (at least that’s how I put it so I justify losing my mind and priceless sleep over a wedding clear across the world) as the commoner Catherine Elizabeth and the Prince William of Wells got married!
Now, I do have to be honest. I really didn’t have popcorn and tea and all that junk but I really watched from start (2 am) to finish (7 am). I couldn’t peel my eyes off the screen. You just might be thinking right now, “What a Looney!” but it had to be done. I just love fairytales! Growing up on Disney movies my whole life sure didn’t help the fact that I wanted to see someone drive off in a carriage happily ever after. It was a Cinderella story!
It was hilarious because I was actually getting butterflies when I saw her in her dress. It was absolutely gorgeous, she was absolutely gorgeous, I couldn’t get enough! Sometimes I wish I was British so I could dress all sophisticated with the little hats and fascinators (little headband hats ha). I told Marc that I will be going to England before I die. haha I just love history and I witnessed history in the making. My only problem is that when I finished watching I wasn't satisfied. It's like watching Harry Potter or other sequels and you have to watch the next one and the next one to feel fulfilled. I am just going to have to watch them live their lives so I fill fulfilled waking up at 2 am. haha
I had never seen a wedding like that in real life. I am so used to temple marriages and to see this way was weird no matter how many weddings you see in movies! Though it was good, I couldn’t help but think how sad it is that they won’t really have a fairytale ending. All of that hype, money, and fanfare for something that won’t last…eternally anyway. They seem like such a cute couple and that they really love each other but I wanted to tell them how they really could have a happy ending. One day they may know the truth about the gospel...That might be a while but any time is better than none. Right? :)
Well I am so sorry that I posted about my guilty pleasure. Some of you might look down on me now. You might even be thinking you knew me and now you wish you didn't...but it was worth every little minute of Barbara Walter specials and documentaries on the royal family to the Finale of a modern fairytale. haha

Well...Maybe Next Year

2011-04-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

I wasn't going to post this cuz I have posted a lot lately but I just had to. EASTER! Man, was I so excited to celebrate Easter this year! We actually had Braxton to celebrate with this year! I went and got him this cute Easter basket from the dollar store and couldn't wait to hide it and all that good stuff. I got the die for the Easter eggs and even made sugar cookies with the hopes that as a fam we could dye Easter eggs, frost cookies, and just have some good ol' fashion fun! Turns out that Braxton just didn't want to be part of it this year! haha

Maybe he doesn't like the whole Easter Bunny thing (he doesn't compare to the fat, jolly, man in the red coat by any means), or it could be that he just wanted to boycott society's love of candy and love of the wonderful holiday...ya never know. He might be just thinking how ridiculous we look trying to make him join in on all of the activities when all he wants to do is fake punch his dad and laugh! haha

All I know is that my plans of family fun turned into me and Marc taking turns dying eggs and I frosted all of the cookies. Haha

He was not having it!

The next morning, Easter Sunday, I got us all dressed in our Easter outfits and I was pumped for a good day at church...That didn't happen. haha All I could do is laugh. Marc was happy though cuz he actually got to hang out with Brax during Priesthood.

After church it was time to find his Easter Basket. This is him (below) thinking, "Hey! The Easter Bunny gave me the book off my shelf, the swimsuit I already had in my drawer, and candy from my last Easter Egg Hunt, and dad is going to be the one playing with my hoop!" Not happy! ha

This was him after throwing a little fit...tuckered out and ready for a nap...

I love Easter! It was a little ghetto but being poor is fun and Braxton makes it so much more fun cuz we have to be creative in how we celebrate (hence the regifted basket)! Even if he didn't quite grasp any of it...at least we have the memories! I don't care if he was mad on Bunny day...he still made it a blast! I love his personality, maybe cuz he is a little like me, fiesty! He did help me remember though that Easter is about the Savior and family! Everything else is fun but it definitely doesn't matter in the eternal scheme of things.

All I can say is, "Well...Maybe Next Year!" haha

3 AM Never Looked So Good

2011-04-23T03:25:00.000-07:00

So Braxton decided to wake up at 3 this morning and as I sat there watching infomercial after informercial, watching people go from a size 45 to a 6 not having to work out and eating whatever they want. Wishing and hoping I could get Cindy Crawfords Meaningful beauty that has kept her wrinkle free since her twenties. Getting my wallet ready to buy the next workout video...I have already done this one. ha I realized, that I should be enjoying the little boy next to me laying on the couch! He is hilarious! It really is easy to stay awake when I realize that he is having the time of his life staring at his reflection glow in the couch! So...I decided to capture every moment of his early morning capers that make me laugh.

After the couch stare, he went straight to sucking his fingers for a while.

He got tired of just laying on the couch so I put him down on his laydown toy. He was soooo excited to see his little friends. He played with them just 10 hours ago and it's like the first time all over. He was so excited!

He couldn't contain his excitement anymore!

This was the last picture I took before he rolled to his side and zonked out! ha ha Now I am left wide awake and so I decided to blog about it.

Having a child is the best thing ever! I wouldn't trade all the sleepless nights, poopy diapers, worrying about every tiny noise and sad face for anything! Braxton is the best thing to happen to our little family! He puts everything into perspective. His personality is so fun and he really is just an all around happy baby. We are so blessed that Heavenly Father would send us such a sweet spirit...What did I do right to be trusted with such an AMAZING son? I think it might have been a mistake but he is all mine and I am not giving him back! haha

So all you moms and dads (Marc gets up with him the most in the 3 am so I gotta shout out to the hard working dads as well) when you are up with your baby because they just want to be up for no reason, remember that it really doesn't last that long and it is all worth it when you just look at them and they start smiling! :)

Maybe he will do this again next friday when the royal wedding is on! :)

Two Posts Below!

2011-04-20T16:45:00.001-07:00

First T-T-T-Toof!

2011-04-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

Well...It's official! Braxton got his first tooth in March but it is now visible through the camera! haha We were at the park today and he was so mad that I put the cutest hat on, so we took advantage and got some pics. Just so ya know I don't make him cry on purpose for pictures. haha Quick background though...kids with his chromosome disorder tend to get their teeth in early! They can also come in really strange, such as a molar tooth where your front tooth goes etc. he might be getting a molar! It is very large! We will see good thing Dad is going to be a dentist. Either way he will rock it! He is so dang cute! I can't get enough of my little man!

Bottom left tooth...Crazy! He is growing up too fast!

This is the only picture of him happy in this hat! haha

He just oozes swagg wearin his RUN DMC onsie! He is lookin so Handsome!

Hippity Hoppity Easter's On Its Way!

2011-04-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

Marc's family was in town this past week because my cute little nephew Brock was born! (I can say little because Braxton is actually a tank compared to Brock) We are so excited because Brax has a boy cousin on both sides of the family about 6 months apart...Friends! We are already letting them hang out. ha Brock is so darling and Braxton is already needing fashion tips from him! My sister-in-law looks so good and we are so glad he came a little early so we could celebrate Easter with Brock!

Braxton put his arm right around Brock when he came home

I have decided that Braxton needs a little spray tan laying next to Brock. haha

All the cousins! They all look so cute!

After all of the pics Before my Mother-in-law had to go back to California she did a little Easter Egg hunt in Melissa's backyard. It was so fun! I tried to help Braxton get all the candy...I started getting a little competitive with all the kids. Just teasing, but that would be something I would do. haha Thanks for the great Hunt Ruth!

I told Marc I wanted a picture of Brax in his Easter Basket...Wrong one Marc!

Brax was the only one not digging into his basket for candy...Mom and dad did that for him!

Is Aunt Megan trying to still your thunder Brax?! Oh Heck No! haha

We celebrated a little early but it was so much Fun! We are just excited the Easter Bunny sent us a little Cousin to play with! :)

K...I Fibbed! Last One!

2011-04-07T19:01:00.001-07:00

For my birthday all I wanted to do was go for a hike! So, we went. It was so fun! Just Red Cliffs but that was perfect for Braxton's first hike. He was so good! He slept the whole time. It was great cuz that hike was actually a workout carrying him around! ha I love living in St. George...It's W A R M!

We asked a lady to take a family pic. It turned out ok. sometimes asking people doesn't result in a good picture. It was gorgeous!

I was tempted to wake hime up. I wanted him to remember being on the hike...I am a dork I know. Braxton, there's more hikes a comin!

Well that will be it for a while. That's why i don't really feel too bad posting this ridiculous amount but, until i get internet in my home this will be it for a time. :) Hope I caught everyone up somewhat. There were so many things that happened during his first five months but at the risk of boring everyone to death I kept it to the big events in his life! From now on I will stay on top of things.

Numero Dos!

2011-04-07T18:33:00.001-07:00

3 MOnths Old/ Blessing Day! He did so good! He smiled all during sacrament. Marc gave him the most amazing blessing! Grateful for the Priesthood!

What Braxton Learned and Did...

Got Blessed by his Daddy

Two days later got his first surgery...5 worst hours ever!!

Smiles and laughs ALL the time Found his little hand

Sucked his thumb for real

Got better at Tracking objects

He really is strong...Abnormally Strong. Maybe it's the duplication on his 7th Chromosome. haha

Got his first little infection after surgery...bounced back after a day! Atta boy!

Dad gave him his first Mo-val fade. AKA Haircut. Marc did such a great job!

Brax Holding his little head up!

4 Months...

Absolutely LOVES his dad! They are best buds!

Finally fit into three month clothes!

Sucks thumb!

Imitates sticking out his tongue

Loves looking at faces...especially mom and dad ;) ha

Gets irritated and sometimes just wants to hang out with his toys haha

Drooled like non other...Tooth anyone?!

First sign on tooth two weeks before his five month b-day!

Long Locks...1/4 of an inch.

Still has the thumb...both hands now!

Faux Hawk!

This was his first picnic! He had so much fun!

Double chin-s

Grabs our face

can hold a rattle (when we put it in his hands)

Sits in Bumbo for 5 min! By Himself!

YAY FOR BRAXTON!

First of Two Posts!

2011-04-07T18:06:00.000-07:00

Braxton Rosell McRae 4lbs 14 oz born November 6, 2010! This was his life for the first month of life...NICU at the U of U! It sure was a rollercoaster ride but he would just look at us and we knew that he would be just great!!!At the NICU one week old!

This was him getting ready to go home! We were so nervous and excited to take Brax home! We were waiting for this day for a whole month...Everyday I was tempted to take him home! Things that he accomplished his first month...

Gained a whole pound!

Learned how to drink from a bottle and nurse!

Only needed oxygen during the ride home and when he ate!

Endured many, many tests!

Realized that he hates doctors and nurses :)

Got a Hernia the first night home! :(

Second MOnth...

Kept gaining weight!

Had so much fun with family during the holidays!

NO MORE NG TUBE (the tube we had to feed him through)

Rolled over all the time!

Got his 2 month shots...That was so sad!

Had his first doctors appointments at Primary Childrens

This is him without his NG tube and a HuGe gut...That is exactly what Marc looked like as a baby! We just held him all the time! (Still Do) ha

Finally, Finally, Finally!!!

2011-04-06T22:05:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone (not sure who everyone is ha)! I am FINALLY posting on the blank page of a blog that I call mine. Life has been a whirlwind lately but I now have 1. internet (at my sister-in-laws house ha) 2. Some time on my hands (marc is feeding the baby) 3. and a desire to journal about our little family! haha This is just a disclaimer post that this blog is basically just a blog about my son: little boy, buddy, pal, side-kick, and PERFECT baby boy Braxton! :) He is my life and the best part of my day (other than my husband of course...tied). I am going to have to back track on the past few months so be patient with me but I will get up to date soon enough. I am so excited to finally be part of the fun world of blogging that I have been missing out on. This is my first post of hopefully many! Exciting! Yay! haha

.