Rachel and the Boys

Christmas Morning

2012-01-29T18:27:00.000-08:00

What do you mean it's almost February? How did that happen? Guess that's how we roll these days. So much for my New Year's resolution to be an "on-time person".

Anyway, back to Christmas morning. Yes, don't be deceived by the darkness outside, this is indeed very early Christmas morning. McKay is my early riser. In Utah he was often waking up at 4:30 am ! On Christmas Eve he went to bed late but so did all the adults! At around 2:30 am I passed out on the couch and after what seemed like only a minute, I awoke to sounds of the Marble Works set Santa had brought McKay for Christmas!

Our tradition has always been to wake everyone up and all go into the Living room together. Apparently McKay didn't get that memo because when he woke up he just took himself right into the Living room and started exploring.

When I walked into the Living room he was playing with his new toys and he announced to me, "Mom! Santa came and he drank the milk we left and he ate a cookie!" So, he'd also single-handedly checked on Santa's comings and goings. It was so funny!

Once I knew he was awake I got everyone else up, which explains the bleary-eyed pictures that follow. After all it was 6 am.

McKay hosing off Papa with his new firetruck

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Two out of three sets of eyes closed! Hahaha!

Yes, Santa knows how important oral hygiene is!

Nothing says "Merry Christmas" like Cars underwear.

Nice!

Well, at least McKay is having fun!

P.S. Benson, bless his heart, didn't wake up for another 2 hours. After McKay was finished opening his Santa gifts, Papa took one for the team and stayed up with McKay. The rest of us went back to bed for a short winter's nap.

More Dailies

2012-01-24T06:37:00.000-08:00

This morning McKay woke up and see seemed a little warm to the touch. I asked him if he felt sick and he said no. I said, well come here so I can feel to see if you have a fever. I felt his forehead and as I did he said, "I'm ok Mom. I'm not sick. My eyebrows don't need bandaids."

McKay has a little trouble with constipation. He holds it all in for days until he gets sick and really constipated. Eventually he will have a BM but it will often be hard and painful. We often have to sit next to him in the bathroom, help hold his legs and coach him through it. Yesterday I was in the bathroom and he came in. He sat on his little step stool and said, "Mom, I'll hold your legs for you so you don't fall in. You're doing great Mom. Just a few more pushes Mom." What a helper.

Speaking of BMs, last time he was having one he looked at me and said, "Maybe my next poop will be as big as America." Sure hope not.

Last night we had a friend over for dinner. While we were eating McKay piped up and said, "Dad, could we take a bath this year?" It was a little embarrassing. I promise, we bath him much more regularly than that!

Benson is still pretty quiet but he has taken to leading us around. He regularly comes to find me, grabs my fingers and pulls me through the house until we get to his toys. He then points vigorously toward the ground until I sit. He won't let me touch any of his toys. He just wants an observer. It's pretty cute.

Little Smarties

2012-01-15T17:41:00.000-08:00

My kids surprise me all the time. I get so used to the things they can do that I often forget they are capable of new things all the time.

Benson, though he still speaks mostly in grunts, understands everything I say to him. And, he always obeys...except when he is instructed to eat. He never does that. But, when asked to put his shoes and coat away, or share with his brother, or park his cars for the night, he happily obeys.

Today was McKay's first day in Primary. Since I am the Primary President, I've been talking up how much fun he'd have in Primary and how excited I am to finally have him there with me.

He did really well. He sat nicely in his chair (though he insisted I sit next to him). He tried hard to sing the new song we learned, though he had absolutely no idea how it went. He also helped with the Sharing Time lesson. However, when it came time to go to class with his teacher, he was not excited. He screamed, in fact. So, he and I sat outside his classroom for a while, discussing the importance of attending class, how much fun it would be, that his friends missed him, etc. Finally I said, "Well, I'm going into your class, so you can come too or you can sit in the hall by yourself." He chose to come.

Once inside class, I sat down next to him for about a minute after which he looked at me, waved, and said, "See you later, Mom". That was my cue.

In Primary this year, we are encouraging all the children to memorize the 13 Articles of Faith. Whenever they memorize one and pass it off to their teacher, they get a treat.

McKay has been working on the 1st Article of Faith all week. When class ended today he repeated the whole thing to his teacher! We got him started with "We" and he finished the whole thing by himself. I was so proud, and amazed.

When we were first working on our plan to encourage memorizing the Articles of Faith, we were only going to do it with the Sr. Primary, assuming the Jr. wouldn't really be able to do it. Wow, McKay sure proved me wrong.

We have all had stuffy noses around our house lately. Everyone is pretty much over it but mine is really hanging on. So, the past few days I've had a humidifier going in my room. After naptime today I noticed that McKay had a humidifier in his room too. I assumed BJ had set it up for him, since it was plugged in and sitting next to his bed.

Tonight as we were putting the kids to bed, BJ asked if I still wanted McKay's humidifier on. I said, "I thought you got it out for him" to which he replied he had thought I had gotten it out. We both looked at McKay and I asked if McKay had gotten it out. He said, "Yes, I got it out of my closet. My nose was stuffy so I needed a re-midifier."

Little smartie-pants.

Christmas Pageant

2012-01-09T05:46:00.000-08:00

This year's version of the annual Robertson Nativity reenactment was quite interesting. We began the production by having the Roman Soldier (shown below) narrate. Scene one featured Mary and Joseph and McKay, riding the donkey. Benson kept removing the Baby Jesus from the manger and McKay broke the frankincense. A good time was had by all. :)

The fearsome Roman Soldier-Narrator

McKay sampling the frankincense and Myrrh.

The lovely, and very convincing, Mary and Joseph.

Benson in the manger. As soon as he spotted it, removed the Baby Jesus and climbed right in.

Then, of course, McKay needed to try it out too.

And, I'm not really sure what was going on here... Nice dress, Dave!

This year, though the pageant had plenty of funny moments, was special because we were wearing costumes that my Grandma Brady made. She spent a lot of time before she passed away making a set of Nativity costumes. My Mom helped her with the project, so when she passed away, we inherited the costumes.

It was neat to know that she worked on them and that this Christmas story was important enough to her that she would spend time creating costumes for its reenactment once a year. She was a very special lady with a firm believe in her Savior and Heavenly Father. She lived a selfless life. We miss her.

31

2012-01-06T18:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, BJ! In honor of your 31st birthday, I wanted to share with you 31 of the MANY reasons you are loved, admired, and appreciated. You are so special to me, to our boys, and to all of your family and friends. Here's why:

1. Your favorite place to be is home.

2. You teach our boys to pray and to read the scriptures.

3. You never speak ill of anyone, or even think ill of anyone...except bad drivers :).

4. You always wake up in a cheerful mood.

5. You change dirty diapers without a single complaint.

6. You have never criticized me about anything, ever.

7. You love to serve in Nursery.

8. You sing beautifully.

9. Angie: "I love how positive BJ always is and that he clearly loves Rachel and the boys."

10. You wrestle with our boys every day, play Legos, and trains, and cars, and anything else they want to play.

11. You love to snuggle.

12. You love to stay up late just as much as I do.

13. Little children love and trust you immediately.

14. You love being a dentist because you get to help people and make them feel at ease.

15. Daniel: "He appreciates good humor".

16. Lety: "I love BJ because of his positive attitude and his constant smile, his willingness to help anybody, especially when a computer breaks down, because he is medio-Uruguayo, and because he accepted me immediately as a part of the family when I moved to the United States."

17. Damon: "What I love about BJ is that his is...well BJ. He hasn't changed over the years, he is still the same happy personality. He is authentic, sincere, and irreplaceable. Who'd a thunk the little blonde kid switched shortly after birth would turn out to be such a good brother. I love his slippery head...just look at all those poor little hair follicles that slipped off the top of his head and slid down to his chin where they are hanging on for dear life. Seriously, I couldn't be any prouder of my little Bro...love you."

18. Josh: "B.J. has been a mentor, guardian, and close friend. In other words, he's my older brother. He used to drive me to and from school when he was in high school. Sometimes I was slow, and he would still drop me off at the middle school for my Jazz band even though it would make him late. Then, after school while he finished his musical rehearsals, he let me use the spare change in his car to buy Reese's Pieces and Nibs from the vending machine while I waited. On some lucky days he would come to pick me up from the middle school and I knew the moment he entered the building because he would be singing some cheery tune. I was proud to have him as my brother. Still am!

He really cares about people. He has periodically checked up on me and will just call to say , "hello", and tell me about the latest electronics gadgets. I have always admired BJ. I admire his fun personality, his glowing confidence, and his humility. He really loves the church and is not just active but proactive. I love to see how he treats his little boys. I have full confidence that their futures are bright because of how good a father they have to raise them.

I don't know exactly how families were organized in premortality, but I'm grateful I got signed up to be in his!"

19. Tasha: "I love that BJ is so selfless. He is always so willing to help however he can. He's so pleasant to be around. He has a cheerful countenance that is contagious. And he has great hair."

20. Trina: "I appreciate and love BJ for his readiness to laugh and to make others laugh and for his acceptance and love for everyone. I love to listen to him sing. It is a beautiful sound and always sincere, genuine, and gentle. He is happy and always ready to help those of us who are technologically challenged. He never laughs at stupid questions. I love Beej!"

21. Mom Robertson: "There are so many reasons why I love BJ! he is kind to everyone, he loves my daughter and my grandsons, he is fun-loving, he is great with computers and is always willing to help anyone in need (this is something I noticed about him way back in high school). He loves us as a Family and is willing to spend time with us even when he would rather be with his own family. We truly love you and are so glad you are a part of our family."

22. Becky: "BJ is special to me because he wasn't born into my family but he is my brother just the same."

23. Kiarah: "Beej is the best big brother. We share tons of fun memories...like the time he spit on my face, or when he introduced me to Mr. Ghosty Ghost:). But seriously, I am so grateful for BJ. I always feel very safe confiding in him. He cares so much and has such a huge heart. He was my number one supporter and had the best advice when I was adjusting from the mission. In his letters home when he was on his mission, he would always write "it's all good" that sums up BJs attitude and it has always had such a positive effect on those around him. He never fails to make me feel so good. I love joking around with Beej and love his sense of humor. Mom always comments gratefully on how Beej will drop anything he's doing to help you. It's so true, he's so willing to help, always. I could not ask for a better big brother."

24. David: "Something I am always impressed with is the way BJ treats others. Especially those he doesn't know very well. They may ask time consuming favors of him yet he doesn't find a way out, but does the favor with a smile on his face. I don't get to talk to him much about serious things, but I got to ask him what his favorite Christmas tradition is this past trip. He said it was providing Christmas to needy families. That just solidifies the evidence that Beej is a one of a kind guy, and I'm very happy to be his brother. :)"

25. Benson: "I love Daddy because he is just like me. We are two peas in a pod. We have the same cheerful disposition, the same sense of humor, and the same loving ways. Daddy is so much fun to play choo choos with. I love my Daddy best of all!"

26. McKay: "Daddy is so special to me. He gives me baths and takes me on walks and makes me waffles. I love to play cars and trains with Dad. Daddy, I love you!"

27. You always look on the bright side.

28. You come home singing.

29. You are always up for a good time.

30. You have always given me wings.

31. I knew I wanted to marry you because I always felt happy in your presence. It was the best decision of my life. You have made every day joyful.

Cox Christmas Eve

2012-01-06T18:15:00.000-08:00

Hooray for Christmas in St. George. This year we were extra lucky because we had two Christmas Eves, one on the 23rd with the Cox family and the other on the 24th with the Robertsons. It was wonderful! Here are some pics of our Christmas Eve at the Coxes. All the little boys got Thomas the Train pajamas, to their great delight. Here are McKay with his cousins Colten and Camden. They had a wonderful time playing together. Here they are playing with Grandma's decorative boxes.

Mel and Trina in Christmas PJs.

Samuel and James

Benson and Mommy. This was Benson's favorite place in Grandma's house--the train table. Every morning we stayed at the Coxes the first thing he would say (and still one of his only words) was "Choo choo".

Daddy and Benson. Here Benson was saying "cheese". This is one of about 5 words he says, and Mommy still isn't one of them (he still calls me "Daddy"). Although, while we were in Utah he learned a new word, "Costco". He says it clear as a bell. Haha!

Isi-bell :)

McKay and Boots

Looks like he's a natural! I guess all he needed was a mic. Maybe now he'll sing instead of just shout, "Stop Practicing"! whenever anyone in our house utters a note.

McKay watching the program. After a delicious dinner of ham and turkey, potatos, green bean casserole and other wonderful food, we made our way up to the theater room for the Christmas Eve program. It was really great this year! Performances included all the little girls dancing and singing to "Santa Baby", BJ and I singing "The Prayer", Dallin and Kiarah doing, "The Christmas Song", Aubrey playing piano, all the teenagers singing, "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer" and other great stuff.

Santa!!!

2011-12-15T05:08:00.000-08:00

*Sigh*

Saturday was BJ's last full day to study for the dental board examinations, so we had to get the kids out of the house. Trisha kindly invited us to go with her and her kids to Joseph Beth, a big beautiful bookstore downtown, where Santa was going to visit and read a story to the kids. Everyone was invited to bring their kids and cameras to take pictures with Santa after story time.

McKay, Benson, and I piled into the car and headed off to see Santa for the first time. McKay was very excited to tell Santa what he would like for Christmas and, of course, to play with the train table at Joseph Beth.

We arrived just before Santa descended the escalator to arrive in the Children's section of the bookstore. When he did, the kids were so excited and sat very patiently as Santa read "Twas the Night Before Christmas" to all the kids.

Once the story was over, there was a mass movement to form a Santa-sitting line. And somehow we ended up at the very back. For a group of 2 and 3 year olds, that line seemed endless. So, we opted to visit the train table while we waited.

McKay and Benson love this train table. We visit Joseph Beth often for the singular purpose of playing on it (never mind that we have a train table in our own house). Anyway, on this Saturday, the train table was busy. The entire store was packed and the children's section was no exception. Things started off well...until McKay decided he wanted a train that another little boy was using. He asked nicely for it once and then, when the train wasn't delivered forthwith, he flew into a terrible tizzy. He ran screaming at the top of his lungs through the aisles of books, wailing something about not sharing.

It was as if a collective hush fell over the entire store. All eyes searching for the source of all that noise. I chased after McKay, practically begging him to calm down but to no avail. I could see he was not going to be quieted which left us with only one choice. I scooped up a kicking and screaming McKay under one arm, and Benson, who had been playing nicely until he was unceremoniously dragged away, under the other. A kind parent pushed the elevator button for me and up I went with two screaming children.

The elevator served to amplify the screaming so when we finally reached the top and the door opened, the whole store was staring (many in disgust) at the parade of ill-behaved children and their frazzled mother.

It was about this time that McKay realized his opportunity to talk to Santa had been compromised. His screams turned then from indistinguishable shouts to a piercing, "SANTA!!!!!" which he screamed over and over again as we dashed madly for the door.

I don't think I've ever been so embarrassed in all my life. Even my infamous bra mishap on TV (plenty embarrassing, I assure you) doesn't compare to walking through a gigantic store carrying what appeared to be two totally spoiled children screaming about Santa at the top of their lungs. I felt like the whole store was collectively shaking their heads at this terrible mother.

Poor McKay was sorely disappointed. He sobbed all the way home about not getting to talk to Santa. However, I think it was a lesson well-learned. And perhaps we'll find another opportunity to talk with Santa. Maybe we'll even get a picture.

Letters

2011-12-15T04:37:00.000-08:00

In this day of digital everything, I appreciate more and more a hand-written note. One of my favorite things about the Christmas season is the influx of mail we receive. It means so much to hold a letter in your hands.

Lately we've received a couple of letters with particular meaning. Each one brought tears to my eyes, especially because the feelings each expressed are the way I feel about each of these wonderful people. At the risk of being too personal, I am going to document them here as I want to remember them for years to come.

From Becky, Todd, and Rachel (A Thank You Note at Thanksgiving):

"Thank you so much for having us for Thanksgiving! It was so nice to spend time in your home with you and your cute little boys. Thank you for your hospitality-the delicious meals. rearranging your schedules and rooms for us, and for your kindness! Hope to see you again."

-Rachel

"Thank you so much for inviting us into your home and taking such good care of us. You're both amazing, and kind, and comfortable. This has been the best Thanksgiving break in years. You guys are the best!"

-Todd

"Thanks for having me and my friends for Thanksgiving. My family is the best part of me. Thanks for letting me share that. Love you!"

-Becky

From Elder Anderson, our missionary friend here in Nicholasville:

"Dear BJ and Rachel,

Where to even begin! Thank you so much for the love, kindness, and hospitality you've shown me during my time here in the Nicholasville ward. Having the privilege to come to know your family and to see your growth in the Gospel has been a tremendous testimony builder to me. I cannot thank both of you enough for the example you have been to me and the members of the Nicholasville Ward. As I have witnessed your faith grow, my faith has grown. Thank you, Brother Cox, for magnifying your priesthood, and thank you, Sister Cox, for taking upon yourself the errand of angels. And thank you both for making your home a Heaven on Earth. I never thought it would be possible to come to love someone as much as I've come to love your family. I have every intention of staying in touch with your family, plus i know the relationships one acquires while on their mission will last for eternities. BJ and Rachel, never allow Satan to bind your tongues. Share what you know to be true with boldness and love. In the words of that great missionary Paul; Fight the good fight, finish your course, and keep the faith. Shall we not go on in so great a cause! The Lord loves you and so do I."

-Elder Anderson

From Elder Ahern, his companion:

"Dear Cox Family,

I want to thank you so much for everything that you have done for us. I have grown to love you all so much. I've enjoyed every minute of my time spent in your home and I want to thank you for the love that you have shown me. You make me feel like part of the family and my family back home has heard a lot about you, nothing but good things, hahaha! I want to thank you for having us over for Thanksgiving. It really meant a lot to me because of the fact that it was my first major holiday away from home and I was worried I would get homesick. Celebrating Thanksgiving in your home was perfect because I have come to love you as my family...kind of like a home away from home. You are too amazing and I know I still have some time here but it's going to be super difficult when I do go. I could go on but just know that I love you all so much. Have a wonderful Christmas season!"

-Elder Ahern

Everyday Angels

2011-12-12T20:42:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks have been very busy. December always is. Especially so for musicians, it seems. BJ and I love performing at Christmas time and feel so blessed to share beautiful messages about the Savior's birth during this time of year.

Performing has become challenging though, since each time we sing or rehearse, we have to figure out what to do with the kids. Especially since McKay still hates our singing. Really, he does. He covers his ears and shouts at the top of his lungs, "Stop Practicing!" until it stops.

Last evening was our last big concert of the Christmas season. We have been taking turns attending Stake Choir rehearsals for our Bi-Stake Creche festival and Christmas concert. It was a beautiful event with nearly 150 Nativities displayed and a beautiful concert planned. We were both planning to sing in the choir and we'd also been asked to sing a duet.

The evening began well. We brought along the kids with plenty of snacks and toys. While we rehearsed our old friend, Rick Snow, did a masterful job of keeping the kids busy. We then went to find our babysitter but things didn't go as planned. After a few attempts to find childcare, I went back to the kids and a very nervous BJ. The concert was minutes away from beginning and we were stuck.

I sent BJ on in to sing with the choir and told him I'd stay with the kids and find someone to watch them while I ran in for our duet.

After he left, I sank into a chair, trying to hold back the tears of frustration and disappointment. The choir was large and they didn't really need me, but we had sacrificed many Sunday evenings to rehearse. We'd driven a half hour each way every week to practice, often with the kids in tow past their bedtimes to support good music in our stake. I wanted so much to be able to sing and, in the midst of hundreds of church members, I felt alone. I knew I could drag someone in if I really tried, but I didn't want to bother anyone. Everyone there had come to attend the concert, not babysit. After a busy few weeks of calling in favors and arranging for childcare, I just couldn't bear to ask anyone for yet more help.

The concert was extremely well attended. There were nearly 700 people and there were not 700 chairs set up. So, right before the concert began, priesthood men were sent to every extra room to retrieve chairs. As I was sending BJ off to sing, there were two men picking up chairs in the room we were in. One of them said, "Do you need someone to watch your kids"? I didn't know him and assured him that I would be fine. He left. But, just as I was saying in my heart, "Heavenly Father, I wish we had someone to help us right now" he came back with his beautiful wife. Scott and Julie Hill introduced themselves. Scott, it turns out, is a 2nd year dental student and a friend of BJ's. Julie said to me, "We would be happy to watch your kids tonight. You need to go and sing. I am a nanny and we love kids. It will be a blessing to hear you sing through the speakers while we play with the kids."

I was so very touched. All I could do was hug Julie and choke out a "thank you" before wiping my eyes and running out the door to sing.

We returned an hour later to two cheerful boys and the sweet smiles of Scott and Julie. They assured us that the boys had been great and that they had even played a new game with Benson.

I know that last night, in the midst of a crowd of people busily celebrating the Savior's birth, Heavenly Father sent two servants, angels in fact, to minister to a daughter who was feeling a little forgotten and alone.

I am so grateful for two humble wonderful people who willingly gave up an evening of pleasant enjoyment for one of service. Who answered a small call that made all the difference to me. To me, their smiles were radiant and nothing short of angelic.

I know Heavenly Father is mindful of me and my two boys. That was evidenced to me last night through the actions of others. I was reminded that it is often through others that the Lord meets our needs and answers our prayers. I'm grateful for the Hills' example which has encouraged me to look around more attentively and listen to the Spirit more closely that I might minister too.

Sick!

2011-12-08T19:00:00.001-08:00

Let me just start off by saying that my boys are cuter than any other little boys out there... sorry if you have boys and are reading this... but it's true :)

Every time I burp in front of Benson (which, I'm sure isn't very often...), I look at him and make a scrunched-up face and say "Sick!"

So, tonight, Benson got the hiccups. It was hilarious because each time he would hiccup, he'd look at me and say "Sick!" (which comes out more like "Sih"). This went on for about two or three minutes until he got over the hiccups.

Cute kid. Gotta love him.

Update: Rachel insists that I make sure that you all know that BJ wrote this post... Rachel doesn't know how to burp.

The Daily Tantrum

2011-12-06T20:08:00.000-08:00

Well I don't know who ever coined the phrase "Terrible Twos" but they must have never raised a three-year-old because two-year-olds got nothin' on the three-year-olds.

At our house, we have a "Daily Tantrum". Yes, it even has a name. McKay wakes up at 6:30 every morning and by 1:00pm he has HAD IT.

(Insert tantrum here)

We now have a tantrum routine. When he starts his screaming fit, I calmly say, "you may go to your room until you calm down. Benson and Mommy don't want to listen to screaming."

Recently, McKay has been sending himself to his room when the screaming begins. That helps some.

Benson mostly just stares in shocked horror. You'd think he'd be used to it by now.

Today's edition began like this:

We arrived home from a friends house where the kids had been decorating Christmas cookies and having a wonderful time. McKay was exhausted but when I suggested taking a short rest he flew into his "daily tantrum".

(Insert screaming and gushing tears)

I calmly said, "You may calm down and play for a few minutes while I put Benson to bed or you can stay in your room and cry."

(More screaming)

So, I put Benson to bed and returned to assist McKay. When I opened his door he glared at me, with tears still streaming and said, "Zook what you've done to me, Mom! I'm SO SAD! Zook what you've done! I am SO disappointed in you!"

At least I know he listens to me.

Ugly Sweater Party

2011-12-04T20:03:00.000-08:00

Isn't it a fantastic idea? There are so many hideous holiday sweaters wandering around, why not have a party to celebrate them? Our friends, Kauti and Josh Nicholls did just that. Here are BJ and I in our versions. The sweater BJ is wearing is actually the sweater he picked up for me at Goodwill but it just worked so much better on him. You can't exactly see it, but the sweater is skin-tight and has miniature snow scenes all over it. Little barns and covered bridges--a tribute to my New England heritage.

Sierra, Kauti, and I in our versions of the ugly sweater. Mine is a little lame, I know, but I would never wear this out in public, so I figured it worked. After all, I had to give my sweater up to BJ...it was a selfless gesture. Just call me Mrs. Santa.

Trisha, Kate, and I. It was really hard to have serious conversations with people throughout the evening while wearing such horrible outfits. I just can't take someone seriously who is wearing a gigantic Snoopy on their chest.

Eric and BJ. They are such good friends. :)

BJ, posing in his winning sweater. Yes, of all the garish, awful outfits of the night, BJ was voted the owner of the Ugliest Sweater. Way to go honey! You make me proud!

His winnings included a Fruitcake log, reindeer antlers, a tacky Santa wall decoration, and a musical Christmas tie. Perfect for Nursery!

We also exchanged White Elephant gifts. BJ and I walked away with a $10 gift card and a mug with a sweet quote likening friends to bras. Brought tears to my eyes.

Our contributions to the gift exchange included 4 bottles of pickled peppers and a crab. Yes, it was alive and nearly scared the opener to death, especially since she mistook it for a scorpion.

That's right, don't forget to invite us to your next White Elephant party! You never know what you'll get!

Post-Thanksgiving Pie

2011-12-02T18:26:00.000-08:00

Watching The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. McKay loves this movie. So does everyone else but when we tried to quote it, we were all scolded by McKay. He would tell each of us in turn, "Stop talking! You're distracting the movie!"

The day after Thanksgiving, Todd demonstrated his baking prowess. He made two Amazing pies, a Lemon Meringue and Raspberry, both recipes from his Grandmothers. Here they are...

And they tasted even better than they looked (if that's possible).

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-27T20:21:00.000-08:00

It was, simply, one of the best Thanksgivings in recent memory. It could only have been improved by sharing it with ALL of our family and friends. However, we felt so very grateful to have a house full of people we love for Thanksgiving this year.

This set of missionaries, Elder Anderson, Elder Ahern, and Elder Gaastra, are very dear to us. They have taught us, strengthened our testimonies, and become our friends. We were so happy they could join us for Thanksgiving this year.

Shaelynn, McKay and Benson had their own little Thanksgiving nook. They really enjoyed themselves. They laughed and played and sampled the food. Well, Shaelynn and McKay sampled the food. Benson just at jello...and pie.

We were nothing short of delighted to have Becky and her two wonderful friends, Rachel and Todd, join us for the weekend. It felt more like Becky brought two of our cousins home.

Rachel, Becky's roommate, is a sweetheart. She was kind, patient and sweet with the boys, and a big help in the kitchen. We loved getting to know her better.

Todd was fantastic too. He took some family photos for us, baked two unbelievable pies (I have the recipes in-hand), played trains and airplane with the kids, and seemed to be doing dishes every time I turned around! He was kind and thoughtful too.

Needless to say, we hope they come back for another visit soon.

Our dear friends Trisha and Eric Ashford also joined us for the Thanksgiving meal. They have been our home away from home here in Kentucky. They have been there for us, no matter what and we feel so blessed to have them as a constant in our lives here.

Just had to include this adorable pic of Mr. Benson chillin' on the couch after the meal. He looks like such a little man.

This Thanksgiving was truly a special one. There is something about living far away from home and family that makes you so grateful for every meaningful relationship. From missionaries to friends, to family, each person in our home over this Thanksgiving weekend was so special and important to us. How often does that happen?

Joy is so many things. This weekend joy was:

A beautiful golden turkey

A walk through the woods with no coat

Lemon Meringue, Apple, Raspberry, Pumpkin, and Pecan

A park-side duck-attack

More people than beds to hold them

Bang!, Apples to Apples, Loaded Questions, Bananagrams, and Scategories,

Two babies and Five adults

New friends you feel you've known a long time

Little Women

A new sweater and Chick-fila waffle fries

A van with no empty seats

A best friend named Becky.

I am so grateful for the dear, irreplaceable people in my life. All weekend long our home felt complete for the wonderful people surrounding us.

Happy Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-27T20:04:00.000-08:00

Elder Anderson and Elder Ahern, two of the best missionaries to ever serve in Nicholasville!

Becky snuggling with McKay, post-nap.

Elder Anderson setting the Thanksgiving table. Those missionaries are always serving! :)

Eric and Alyssa. So cute!

Three of the four Ashfords. Our family away from family.

Elder Ahern and Elder Gaastra playing Bang! It was so much fun to play some games with the missionaries!

A kitchen-full. Delicious food everywhere, friends and family filling the kitchen, lots of helping hands, and a silly husband mashing the potatoes = a perfect Thanksgiving.

Benson giving me loves. Oh he is such a sweet little man!

Becky unwrapping the goodness.

Part of the Thanksgiving feast. And, for the record, our turkey was BEAUTIFUL! Props to BJ for doing the dirty work to make the turkey so beautiful and tasty!

How to eat a roll, Benson-style.

McKay's Karaoke

2011-11-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

So, last night while McKay, Benson and I (BJ) were playing with trains, I (like I often do) broke into song. Sometimes while I sing songs, I will pause and let McKay fill in the words... Our song last night went something like this:

BJ: Splish Splash I was taking a...

McKay: Bath (half-heartedly)

...

BJ: I stepped...

McKay: out of the tub, (a little more enthusiasm)

BJ: Put my...

McKay: Feet on the floor,

...

BJ: Splish Splash I...

McKay: Jumped back into the bath. (quite enthusiastically)

BJ: How was I to know...

McKay: There was a turtle in the bath!

Letters from McKay

2011-11-22T19:11:00.000-08:00

When people are sick we sometimes scribe for McKay while he dictates a letter to a loved one. Here are a few of his recent correspondence.

Dear Mom,

I'm sorry that you're sick. I hope you feel better...I'm drawing a spaceship on Dave's picture for him...I love you a lot, Momma.

Love,

McKay

Dear Dave (and Vickie),

I'm sorry you're sick. You're welcome for giving you this card.

Love,

McKay

Muffs and other random thoughts

2011-11-10T08:44:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning while Benson was still asleep and McKay was watching a show, I hopped into the shower. Once in, I realized I didn't have my shower puff or a washcloth in the kids bathroom so I grabbed McKay's puff and began using it.

About two seconds later I heard the bathroom door open and McKay's voice authoritatively say, "Hey Mom, don't use my new muff that Nanna bought for me. It's my own special muff, so don't use it, okay?"

"Ok," I replied. I mean, technically I wasn't using a "muff" anyway.

In preparation for McKay's nap today, I sent him in to go potty. He went into the bathroom, then I heard the toilet lid lift up and crash back down, followed by McKay's wailing.

I said from the other room, "Are you ok? What happened?" to which McKay responded through tears, "The toilet lid fell on my pee-er."

Ouch.

Yesterday the boys and I went and got flu shots. Today I feel horrible. It feels like a miniature dose of the flu. I am reminded of two years ago when I got my first ever flu shot. I remember feeling badly then, too. It was after that flu shot that I swore them off forever, deciding I'd take my chances with the flu.

The next year I got the flu. I felt horrible. Three full days in bed feeling disgusting. So, this year I opted for the flu shot. And now I feel horrible again. Grrr.....

As we were leaving the clinic after getting our flu shots, a lady was being taken back by the nurse for an appointment. As she walked past us McKay looked up at her and said, "the nurse will give you a squirt in your arm, then you will be all better too!"

This morning I stepped out of the shower and was drying off. McKay had just come into the bathroom and was talking to me about Benson. All of the sudden I heard a strange "plop" behind me in the shower. I turned around and looked at the very spot I'd been standing in only a few moments before. A huge spider had just fallen from the ceiling to that very spot. We're talking big black, thick body and legs, and hairy too. A few moments earlier and it would have landed right on my head.

I'm not kidding.

I managed to half-choke the scream that unconsciously rose in my throat. I made McKay close the shower door and watch to make sure the spider didn't escape. I grabbed the poison and gave it a healthy spray. It didn't seem much affected by the stuff. When it came running at McKay and I, I knew we needed reinforcements.

I called my neighbor, Dave, who was just on his way to work. He knows a little of my arachnophobia and gallantly came over to rescue us. I felt a little ridiculous but some things are too much for me to handle. And why does this always happen when BJ is away? I think spiders can smell fear.

Pumpkin Carving 2011

2011-11-06T13:03:00.000-08:00

Truck or Treat 2011

2011-11-06T12:11:00.000-08:00

This year our ward held it's annual Trunk or Treat and Chili Cook-off at the Nicholls farm. It was the perfect place for the event. The ward met in the barn, ate on hay bales and had a wonderful Halloween time! Right outside the barn were horses. Above McKay is posing in front of the horse. He was fascinated by it and kept trying to feed it pine needles.

Here are Mommy and Benson. Benson would walk right up to the horse and start giggling...and barking. He seems to think all large animals are dogs.

Peek-a-Boo

A shot inside the barn

At the entrance to the barn was a blow-up monster. McKay thought it was very exciting indeed.

Mmmm all the delicious treats!

And here is where Benson spent the majority of the party. Try as I might to keep this boy clean, he insisted on rolling around in the dirt.

Actually, the truth is, it was a very cold night, so his well-meaning mother dressed him in 4 layers underneath his monkey suit. He was wearing a full fuzzy jammy, jeans, a sweatshirt, and long johns (maybe a coat too) underneath. So, anytime he bent down to reach for something, he fell flat on his face (think "The Christmas Story"). All I have to say is, thank goodness that costume is brown!

"Help! I've fallen and I can't get up!"

At the orchard

2011-10-28T12:23:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we soaked up some of the last of the beautiful Fall weather at Boyd's orchard with our friends, the Hamiltons. Axl and McKay loved the Hay Ride (above), the Inflatable Train, and the Petting Zoo.

Benson Loved feeding the goats!

There is nothing like Kentucky in the Fall. It is so beautiful here. Thanks Tyler and JoAnna for a great day (and for taking some photos of all four of us).

Boyd's Orchard

2011-10-28T12:12:00.000-07:00

Peek-a-boo

Ahoy there!

Daddy and Boo

Outtakes at the Orchard

2011-10-25T19:31:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics that didn't quite make the family album :)

I guess we're done with this attempt to get a decent family photo... ha!...

It's just annoying when adults blink during photos, but it's sure cute when babies do it...

McKay sat like this for about two full minutes until we finally convinced him that the ground was only three inches from his feet.

McKay's Masterpiece... He insisted on holding the camera through the corn maze :)

Yet another...

Let's give this family photo thingy one more shot... or not... Well, at least we tried, right?

Funnies: Chapter 2

2011-10-23T19:20:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we took McKay and Benson to Golden Corral for dinner (this was BJ's idea). We let the boys choose their food, and before long our table was littered with dirty plates. BJ and I had helped the boys eat and were busily trying to eat a few bites ourselves. Bottom line, we weren't paying that much attention to McKay.

All of a sudden we realized that McKay was flagging down our waitress, saying,

"Excuse me lady. Lady? Excuse me. We have a problem here. Excuse me, we have a problem lady."

Before we could stop him, the waitress had come over to our table. He continued,
"This is a mess. We're done with this plate, and this plate, and this plate."

We apologized profusely but probably didn't seem too sincere since we were laughing so hard. Fortunately our server had a good sense of humor and played right along with him. I just couldn't believe that our three-year-old would be able to recognize our waitress in a busy restaurant, get her attention, and then clear the table for us. Where did he come from?

Story #2

Our neighbors Dave and Vickie were over two nights ago for dessert and Rummikub. The kids were in bed and we were having a great time laughing and talking. About an hour into the game, McKay came wandering out in a daze and said,

"You have to put that game away. I'm trying to sleep really hard but I can't when you're playing zat game. So you can't play zat game."

NASA

2011-10-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

We spent a wonderful vacation in Houston, TX with Daniel and Angie. While we were there, we also took a road trip and visited our friends the Lassen's and Romney's to check out their new homes and dental practice! It was great!

While in Houston we played and played. We went to the beach, to the movies, out to dinner at The Hobbit and the Chocolate Bar, played games, and toured NASA. All of the Robertson siblings were there and the Robertson Grandparents spent the time in Kentucky watching our kids! It was great (at least for the Houston crowd). :) Thanks Mom and Dad for taking one for the team.

Rocket Park

In front of the training Space Shuttle

Mission Control

NASA...In Line

2011-10-23T18:50:00.000-07:00

Here are a few shots of our trip to NASA. Below is a sequence from the line we stood in while waiting to tour mission control and the rocket park.

At least Angie was enjoying herself! I wish we could say the same for the rest of us...

The wait in line really wasn't too bad and was well-worth it! The tour was incredible. We saw mission control, moon rovers, and a life-sized version of the space shuttle that the astronauts use for training.

Firetrucks and Funnies

2011-09-29T19:22:00.002-07:00

So, we went out the other day and happened to see that there was an Emergency Vehicle fair at the Lowe's by our house. Naturally, McKay insisted that we had to stop and check it out.

See if you guess which emergency vehicle was the biggest hit with our boys...

Nope... I didn't forget about the "Funnies" portion of the post. Here goes!

At six o'clock this morning, McKay came trundling into our room, walked over to my (Rachel) side of the bed, and proceeded to reason with me...

McKay: Mom, (in a rather serious tone) Zisten to me. I have a great idea! How about we watch a movie!

Rachel: McKay... It's still dark... It's still resting time.

So, I gave him two choices, either he could go back to bed willingly or I would escort him back and lock his door. He volunteered to return to his bed with the promise of watching a movie after he'd had a little more rest.

Three minutes later he was back, claiming he'd taken another rest and was now not sleepy and ready to watch a movie.

"See Mom," he said, "I'm not yawning".

He was sent back to his room again and two minutes later was back again.

It was about this time that Thomas The Train turned up and those who were ready to wake up did so, and those who were still in a groggy stupor remained in bed for another 25 minutes or so.

One more story. So, tonight I (BJ) was giving the boys a bath. McKay looked down at his special parts and the conversation went something like this:

McKay: "That's my Shooter"

BJ: "Your shooter?"

McKay: "Yeah... It shoots out the Pee"

BJ: "I see...."

McKay: "And under here (pointing to his rear end) is my Sprayer"

BJ: ... Yeah right like I could actually compose myself to make a comment after that...

Orchard with Dave and Vickie

2011-09-20T20:14:00.000-07:00

What a great Saturday! We spent the afternoon with our good friends Dave and Vickie at Evan's Orchard. The boys had a wonderful time feeding the animals in the petting zoo, playing on the toys, and taking a hay ride.

We all really enjoyed the day and loved spending time with our friends. We have been so blessed to have such wonderful neighbors in Dave and Vickie.

Benson feeding the goat. He laughed every time the goat licked his hand.

Playing in the train
McKay giggling at the goat. :)

The orchard had a huge sandbox filled with dried corn. It was genius and McKay loved it! He played in there for a long time.

Benson on the big boy swing--happy as a clam.

Who's driving this crazy train?

Benson and Vickie both looking good.

Dave taking Benson for a ride. Wahoo!

After the orchard we sampled pizza at a new place in town, mmmm! Then we put the kids to bed and played RummiKube, our new favorite game. Well, BJ's new favorite at least. He won every round!

It was a great Saturday and we look forward to many more fun outings with Dave and Vickie. Thanks so much guys!

First Words

2011-09-16T19:27:00.000-07:00

Benson is beginning to talk! He's not exactly articulate yet... At this point, he often sounds more like he's sneezing than speaking. He does some sort of a closed-mouth snort but his tongue is moving. It's difficult to explain. Perhaps he'll be a great vantrilaquist one day. In the meantime, it takes a practiced ear to realize he's "speaking" but he definitely is.

Occationally he does open his mouth to speak. He first word was, of course, "Daddy", which is always spoken with much enthusiam. He also LOVES trains and goes around all day saying "choo-choo" and giggling gleefully when he actually finds a train.

Yesterday he and I were reading a Thomas the Train book. We got to a picture of Percy. I pointed at the little green engine and said, "look Benson, it's Percy". He smiled and said, "Cercy!" over and over again.

Now I must point out a little irony here. The little tyke is naming the Sodor engines but every time I walk into the room he runs to me and says, "Daddy!". No attempt at Mommy at all. Just "Daddy!". But, he always says it so happily and it's usually followed by a big hug and kiss, so I don't really mind. :)

Other new words include "Kay" for McKay, "Doggie", "Please" (sounds like cheese), "Tank too" for Thank you, and "All Done".

He's really into animal sounds right now as well. The animals, according to Benson:
Sheep- "BAAAAAAH" (with extra emphasis on the AH)
Cow- bOOOO
Chicken- Bbbbbbb buh buh
Monkey- who who ah ah
Owl-Boo

Maybe tomorrow we'll spend a little more time on "Mommy".

Benson's First Hair Cut

2011-09-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

Before

After

I was really nervous to cut Benson's hair but since I could almost braid it, something had to be done. Over the summer his hair has bleached to an almost white color and against his little tan it is just adorable. I didn't want to make a mistake and have to shave it all off.

His trim was really just that--a trim along the bottom and top. The style didn't really change but it's a little shorter now. He's my handsome little guy.

Anti-Nephi-Lehies

2011-07-21T19:28:00.000-07:00

So, as McKay and I were reading the Book of Mormon tonight, we read about the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. I think McKay was a bit confused because he kept asking... "Is that guy a 'Tiny Nephite'?"

McKay's prayer tonight.

2011-07-18T21:00:00.001-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for nanna and papa;
Thank you for grandma Cox.
Thank you for David and for Becky.
Thank you for Dave and for Vickie.
Please bless uncle Ballin...
And uncle Dallin...
And uncle Gallon.
Please bless momma.
Please bless Benson, that he will make us strong.

In the name...

PJs

2011-07-14T21:15:00.000-07:00

This morning, in bleary-eyed exhaustion, I plopped down on the couch next to McKay, after he'd awoken me at an unearthly hour. I happened to be wearing the oldest and tackiest pair of pajama pants I own. My first hand-made article of clothing (and my last). Made in middle school, they are a Capri covered with light houses and sailboats.

McKay sat on the couch for a moment, drinking his juice, then cuddled up next to me, looked down at my pants, and said enthusiastically, "Cool pants, Mom!" He then proceeded to list all the maritime paraphernalia on my PJs.

Perhaps it's time to invest in some real pajamas.

4th of July

2011-07-14T11:04:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful 4th of July! We spent the morning at a great little parade in Wilmore with the Ashford's. The kids loved the tractor brigade, the lawn mower brigade, and the emergency vehicle line-up.

All four of us actually looking in the same direction!

McKay and Shaelynn mesmerized by the parade.

Eric and Shaelynn...adorable.

And Trisha and Alyssa!

C.S.F

2011-07-12T13:07:00.000-07:00

C.S.F = Capri Sun Fetish

My Friend Benson

2011-07-12T12:44:00.000-07:00

The past 14 months have been a little rough for McKay. Benson, from day one, has been a sweet smiling, easy-going guy. He is delightful to be around and has been lots of fun. Not so much for McKay though.

During Benson's first few months of life, we would hear McKay plotting as he played with his toys. Though his language was stilted, his intentions were clear. "Hurt, brother. Hit, brother." We'd often hear mumbled under his breath. Needless to say, I didn't leave the two of them alone together, ever.

Once Benson reached about a year old, things began to improve. McKay would tolerate being in the same room without threatening bodily harm. He began asking with real concern, "Is Benson alright?" anytime Benson would be napping. There was a light at the end of this tunnel we began to hope.

And, just today, we reached a huge milestone. Over the past few weeks we've noticed the boys playing side by side, with the same toys, even handing toys back and forth. Then, today the boys were in the family room, playing with cars together. I was getting ready in the bathroom, cautiously listening for screaming, when Benson came around the corner to find me. He began playing next to me for a moment, when, around the corner came McKay. McKay looked at me and asked, "Mom, could you tell my friend Benson that I want him to come play with me?"

Tears welled up in my eyes. More than anything, I want my boys to be friends. My brother, Daniel, is just 15 months younger than me. He and I were best friends growing up. I honestly don't remember ever not being happy that he was around. I have always hoped our boys would love each other that way too. Perhaps there's hope after all!

Business

2011-07-03T21:14:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday, while Rachel and Benson were napping, I was finishing my business in the restroom. Just as I was about to close up shop, McKay came running into the bathroom and shouted, "Wait, I need to wipe your bottom!"

Park City

2011-07-03T21:05:00.000-07:00

While in Utah, we went to Park City with the Grandma Cox and the cousins. We had so much fun playing with the cousins at the resort, swimming, and shopping.

These were taken at the city park. One evening we had a picnic there and all the kids played. McKay followed Bo around pretty much all week. He loved to have older cousins to play with.

One of my favorite pics from our trip. Aunt Trina swinging with Benson. Trina and Spenc shared a condo with us and we had a great time. Unfortunately, McKay decided he was afraid of Spencer but loved the time to play with Kimball and Isabelle.

We also saw...

2011-06-27T13:12:00.000-07:00

Dan and Angie who were visiting at the same time. We had a big Robertson birthday party to celebrate Daniel and Benson and McKay who had all had b-days in the last month. Then we had a Cox bday bash where the boy's birthdays were celebrated again. We had a third birthday party on McKay's actual birthday in Kentucky (pics to follow).

Now, when we are in a store and McKay sees a toy he wants he says, "maybe I can get that for my next birthday party". I have yet to explain to him that birthdays only come once a year. :)

Nanna and Pappa were exceptional helpers this trip, getting up early with the kids every day and letting me sleep in!! That is by far the best present anyone could give me. I felt like a new woman by the time we left.

McKay would wake up at 6am every morning. Often during the night he would come into my bed. So, as I'd see him get up at 6am I'd try and talk him out of it. But, he would just shrug his shoulders in resignation and say, "But it's zight (light)", as if there were nothing in the world he could do about it. Then he would take his blanket and trundle down the hallway to Nanna and Pappa's room where he would flip on the light and say, "Time to zake up, Pappa".

Pappa would then get him dressed and take him on adventures. They walked to the sand pile down the street, to the park, on the bike trail, and to look at the ducks in the river. It's no wonder McKay couldn't wait to get up in the morning with adventures like that awaiting he and Pappa!

Me and Dave chillin' at the splash pad.

Birthday Presents!!!

"What do you do in the Summertime"

2011-06-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

Do you take a vacation to St. George and hang out with your family all month? If that's what you do, so do we!

Mckay, Benson, and I took a trip to St. George to visit our family. Grandma Cox picked us up and flew us back...Thanks SO MUCH! We had a wonderful time playing with Grandparents, Cousins, and Aunts and Uncles. As you can see, a favorite spot to visit was the downtown splash pad.

We visited our favorite spots, Cafe Rio, the park, the outlets, but most of all, we just had a great time being with family. I somehow didn't get any pics with the Cox cousins but the boys had such a good time playing with their cousins. we caught Rigdon's b-day party during which both my boys ended up in only their underpants (sorry Cherie) but they sure had fun!

Benson's First Birthday

2011-05-09T18:53:00.001-07:00

Funnies

2011-05-09T18:18:00.000-07:00

Tonight BJ and McKay were on a walk. McKay turned to BJ and said, "Dad, I have more hair than you".

McKay loves Dr. Seuss books. We own several, thanks to Uncle Dan and Nana. He has them mostly memorized and tonight was reading "Oh the Thinks You Can Think" to BJ. However, McKay still struggles with the [th] sound, so tonight he actually read "Oh the Sinks You Can Sink".

Whenever Benson is feeling cheerful (and BJ is around) he follows BJ around the house giggling and saying, "Daddy, Daddy, Daddy". Whenever he's hungry, tired, cranky, or needs something, he crawls after me crying, "Ma Ma Ma Ma". Oh the irony.

1 Year Old

2011-05-05T11:35:00.000-07:00

We had a family party (along with our neighbors, Dave and Vickie) where we celebrated little Benson. We had pizza--his favorite food already. He ate a LOT; photo number one is Benson smeared in pizza. Then, for his first cake experience, I made cupcakes spelling Happy Birthday. He was not at all pleased about the frosting. He stuck his fingers in it and began to cry. However, once we got that off and broke open the cupcake, he was much happier. We sang and opened presents. He got this great helicopter (above) from our dear friends the Ashfords as well as a new dump truck, a construction duplos set (which McKay adores), and a water table. It was a great evening.

My Sister-in-law, the Super-Scientist

2011-05-03T11:54:00.000-07:00

When Daniel decided he wanted to marry Angie, the Duke and Harvard grad, the Biomechanics doctoral student, the professionally published bird-flight specialist, and current Post-doc fellow at University of Houston, we knew knew he was making a great choice. In a conversation I had once with Daniel, he told me Angie was one of the leading scientists in her field. He described her as having a brilliant scientific mind. Below you'll find evidence of her genius and also her faith.

Angela Berg Robertson: Scientifically seeking religious truth | Mormon Times

I'm delighted that Daniel and Angie are married. And, while I marvel at her knowledge and "science", it is Angie's goodness, her faithfulness, her kindness to me and everyone she interacts with, and her absolute love for my brother that make me thrilled to be her sister. She has a pure heart and an unwavering devotion to God. She is a sweetheart and the perfect companion for my valiant but sometimes scatter-brained brother.

Congrats, Angie! Sure love you!

A Favor

2011-05-02T19:24:00.000-07:00

BJ was on bedtime duty tonight while I taught a voice lesson. Toward the end of the lesson, McKay came out and informed me that Benson had gotten a "boo-boo". So, post-lesson I went to investigate. When I asked BJ what had happened, he related the following:

BJ: McKay, can you do me a favor?

McKay: A fever?!

BJ: No, a favor.

M: A FEVER?

B: A favor. A favor is when you do something nice for somebody else.

M: A favor?

B: Yeah, could you get me some socks for Benson?

M: Benson has a fever?!

B: No, he doesn't have a fever.

M: (Knowingly) Benson has the Fluke!

Birthday Baseball

2011-04-27T20:28:00.000-07:00

Benson's 1st birthday was yesterday and we celebrated in All-American style! Once a year BJ's dental school is treated to a tasty meal and box seats at the local baseball team by a local dental practice.

Last year's event happened a few days after Benson was born so he and I stayed home while BJ and McKay went to the game. They came back thrilled with it all. BJ and McKay watched the game, played catch on the sidelines, and McKay got a foul ball. It sounded like so much fun we all decided to go again this year.

This year's game landed on Benson's birthday so we all went and had a great time. None of us saw much of the game but we enjoyed the food and friends immensely. Here we all are, attempting to get Benson's birthday hat on him.

Speaking of that birthday hat, while we were in the car driving to the game, McKay kept saying from the back seat, "Mom, can I have that space ship?" I couldn't figure out what in the world he was talking about until, at a stop light, I turned around and saw him pointing at Benson's birthday hat. For the rest of the evening he carried around his "space ship", flying it through the maze of tables. We had to pry it out of McKay's hands to get a picture of Benson wearing the birthday hat.

Happy Birthday Benson!

Happy Birthday, Boo!

2011-04-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

My Darling Benson Boo,

One year ago today you were born. And I shouted for joy. "That was amazing", I just kept shouting, over and over again. And it was.

When I held you for the first time, your birth-cries quieted, and you stared into my eyes. "Hello my darling" was all I could say and kissed your soft, new cheeks. Joy: intense, both familiar and new, wrapped around me as I held you.

Joy has been a year now. A year of meeting. You've introduced yourself. It has been my pleasure. So much like your daddy; it makes me smile. Cheerful and calm, quick to smile, brave and curious, independent and oh so loving. Happy to learn and explore but always ready to cuddle. And eat. Anything.

A mother once before, I wasn't certain I could love again. My greatest comfort was to discover you. Wrapped in sweetness. Filling me with joy. Absolutely the same and totally different.

I love you my little darling.

Love,

Mommy

Easter Morning

2011-04-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T18:24:00.000-07:00

Jack and the Beanstalk (McKay Style)

2011-03-18T18:21:00.000-07:00

Me: Once upon a time there was a boy named...

McKay: Jack!

Me: Where did he live?

McKay: In his house with his mom.

Me: What was his house called?

McKay: It was a small house called a Cottage.

Me: Did they have any food?

McKay: No... they had to go to the grocery store and get some chicken and make it into a swushee (slushy). Then they made it to seeyul (cereal) and ate it all up.

*Skip a bit*

Me: Then the great big man giant said...

McKay: Fee Fi Fo Fum. I smell the bottom of an Engwish man.

The most difficult thing is keeping a straight face through it all (I admit I let a laugh or two every once in a while).

I love that little guy.

For Nanna

2011-03-05T10:10:00.000-08:00

Nuts

2011-03-03T17:11:00.001-08:00

Well folks, the bottom line is this: Kids make you nuts. Don't get me wrong--I love mine more than life itself and wouldn't trade them for my sanity, but still, they've made me a little crazy.

I think I've been coming to terms with this reality gradually. For instance, I've become a perpetually late person. I walk around in a constant state of exhaustion (can't remember the last time I had an uninterrupted night's sleep). I've become rather accustomed to appearing in public in oversized sweatshirts or, better yet, in spit-up covered, booger smeared everything. And my hair is turning white at an alarming rate.

Yes, these realities have been gradually descending upon me. However, tonight I had a particularly illuminating conversation with my brother, during which this harsh reality hit me squarely between the eyes.

Daniel and I were chatting about things in his life. He was returning from the store, they'd been to a mutual friend's vocal recital, their plans with other couples for the weekend. Then Dan said,
So, what are guys up to?" To which I had to respond:

"Oh, not too much. Just the same old same old."

By the end of the conversation, however, I'd recounted how McKay had dropped a toy car in the potty, had peed on the carpet and then asked me to vacuum it up, and had insisted that Santa Claus had stolen his Gingerbread House Book.

During the conversation I was repeatedly saying things like, "Brother doesn't like it when you scrub him with the bottle brush", "Put your underwear back on", and "Don't put Mommy's make-up on Benson's diaper".

I finally had to end the conversation when Benson was crawling out of his half-changed diaper and McKay was shouting, "Time for dinner, Mom".

Like I said, it's a crazy life and it's made me a little crazy but boy, it sure is funny. At least it was to Daniel tonight.

Puppy Dog Benson

2011-02-27T20:47:00.000-08:00

One, Two, Buckle My...

2011-02-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

So, this morning, I was getting McKay into the car, ready to head off to church when I decided to test his ability to rhyme. Our dialogue went something like this:

BJ: One, Two, buckle my...

McKay: Shoe!

(I thought... hmm.. pretty good... let's keep going)

BJ: Three, Four, shut the...

McKay: Car!

(Not exactly what I was hoping for, but pretty good considering he's only 2)

BJ: Five, Six, pick up...

McKay: All of the toys!

(Well, that's about as far as I got because I couldn't keep it together)

Another quick story: So McKay's nursery leader, Sister Beyler, is probably the world's most incredible nursery leader ever. When we asked what they sang in nursery today, he said "Child of God!". So, naturally, Rachel and I wanted him to sing it for us. He needed a bit of prompting, but overall did pretty well. The one part that made us lose it was the following line:

"Has given me a nursery home, with **mumble, mumble** Dear!"

So, Sister Beyler, if you are reading this, you have successfully indoctrinated our child with the importance of nursery!

Welcome to the Family!

2011-02-20T16:18:00.000-08:00

Look who's new at our house! We loved our old car and will probably never have anything quite like it again. But, it started to have some major problems and we thought, well let's make our parenthood official by getting a van! We got a great deal on it and we really love it.

It's a very gently used 2007 Honda Odyssey and we really love it! The best part of all, it has a DVD player. Before I had kids I thought DVDs in the car was a terrible idea. Now I know it's the best thing they've added to vehicles since the wheel. Seriously. I meaan it.

A shot of the interior and of Benson and I, post-wash. Welcome to the family New Blue!

Cracker Barrel

2011-02-10T17:24:00.001-08:00

For a few weeks now, McKay has been begging to go to Cracker Barrel. It all started when one night we were discussing what to make for dinner and he looked at BJ and I and said, "I need to go to Cracker Barrel". He likes Cracker Barrel because he gets a dinner he likes (pancakes and eggs) PLUS time to play in the Cracker Barrel toy section. Thankfully he doesn't yet understand that those toys are actually for sale. Right now he's been lead to believe that all those toys belong to Cracker Barrel and can't leave. :)

Tonight we finally made good on our promise of going "later". We were looking over the menus and asking McKay if we wanted a fried egg or scrambled eggs. He said he wanted scrambled, then paused and said, "No, I want a French egg". I couldn't figure out what he meant but BJ started laughing immediately. When I looked at him quizzically he responded, "McKay would like a (French) fried egg". Of course. If it sounds remotely like French Fries, McKay's all-in.

On another note, we've been reading Frog and Toad before bed lately. McKay really likes the story entitled "A Swim" where Frog and Toad spend the day swimming in the river. Toad dresses in a silly-looking bathing suit and all the animals laugh at him. McKay memorizes the stories we read very quickly and after a few reads he can recite portions from memory. However sometimes he hears things slightly differently. So I had to chuckle tonight as I read, "Toad, you really do look silly in your _____" and paused, McKay readily filled in with "Baby suit".

Bad hair day

2011-02-09T17:43:00.000-08:00

The other evening at dinnertime, McKay climbed up on my chair and started playing with my hair. He examined it for a few moments, then stated, "I can fix your hair, Mommy, I'm a doctor!"

Bye-O-Bye?

2011-02-09T17:29:00.000-08:00

So, any of you avid readers (yes, both of you) who are not familiar with the Cox family "Bye-O-Bye" song, you may not appreciate this as much, but here goes... Actually, maybe I'll explain a bit first. So for generations (at least four) Cox fathers have been singing this song to their Cox daughters and sons that has come to be known as the "Bye-O-Bye" Song. If anyone is interested in learning it, all you have to know is the melody to "Red River Valley". The lyrics consist of a never-ending chain of the words "Bye" "O" and "Bye" in the given order, repeated until said daughters and sons fall asleep.

So, now that you are all up to speed on Ancient Cox Folklore...

The other night, Rachel had to teach, so she went in to her school and I met her there to pick up our two very sick little boys (very sad). So, Benson, by some miracle was asleep (ever more difficult when he can't breath through his nose... also very sad). As we were on the road listening to McKay's new favorite kid CD, Benson began to stir. In my mind I was thinking, "Oh great... now he's gonna be cranky for the rest of the 20 minutes until we get home." Fortunately, I was wrong...

Cue McKay. I didn't notice at first, (since I was too busy getting upset at the bad driver in front of me) but I soon heard McKay in the back seat: "Guy oh Guy, Guy oh Guy" sung to some unrecognizable tune. When I realized what he was doing, I would have given anything to have a spare hand to whip out my phone and take a video or audio recording, but alas...

Now, if that wasn't cute enough, after he finished his song, he began to tell the story of Jack and the Beanstalk to keep Benson appeased (much more completely and understandably than I thought he could).

We love our boys.

Holly Jolly Christmas

2011-02-06T15:31:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite Christmas traditions of all time is decorating gingerbread men. This year we did so in St George with McKay. Why he would only consent to decorating in his underwear--I have no idea but that was the deal, so we went with it. After all, nothing says "Merry Christmas" like Bob the Builder underwear.

Uncle Dan, master of the "Everything" gingerbread man, gave McKay a few pointers. McKay managed to make his own version of the "Everything-man" by dumping an entire bottle of chocolate sprinkles over one mini gingerman. McKay had never encountered sprinkles prior to our decorating fest (does that make me a bad mom?). He was quite facinated by them and insisted on using "frinkles" on every cookie.

Benson slept through the gingerbread men but got plenty of loves from everyone. Here he's modeling his Christmas shirt which reads, "All I want for Christmas is my Auntie".

Benson 9 months

2011-02-02T12:33:00.000-08:00

Hi, I'm Benson Boo and I'm 9 months old! I love to eat graham crackers (see the front of my shirt) and carrots...and that's all. Oh yes, and I LOVE to drink my bottle.
I love to crawl and chase after my brother. I especially like his trains! Boy, he sure doesn't like it when I play with them though.
I appreciate a good nap, two a day actually, but sleeping all night long is so boring. I make a point never to do it! Besides, Mom and Dad must miss me so much; I wouldn't want to make them wait ALL NIGHT before seeing me again. Really, it's all for them, you know?
I think my big brother is the greatest guy. He's always running around and playing with neat stuff. I watch him all the time. I can't wait to be able to play with him.

My Mommy and Daddy sure do love me. Mommy calls me her Angel and you know what, I am!

"Clippers"

2010-12-13T18:45:00.000-08:00

I am not a crafty person. My incredible mother is a professional seamstress and quilter. She paints, she decorates, she bakes--she can make anything. Really.
I, on the other hand, get frustrated by thinking about crafts. Past RS Super Saturday projects haunt the shadows of my closets, threating to expose me. Past sewing projects (save the one I'll post soon) have turned into tear-stained lumpy messes, and I've never baked a cake from scratch...ever.
That being said, I was inspired this year, to attempt to make Christmas Stockings for my two boys. The projects are beautiful sequinned affairs, all hand-stitched and darling but incredibly time intensive. I chose this gingerbread stocking for Benson and have another train stocking I'll do (next year) for McKay. Or at least, that was the plan.
Nearly every night since before Thanksgiving, after the kids have gone to bed, I've spent some time working on this stocking. I've cut-out, beaded, sequinned, appliqued, and otherwise labored over the project.
Well, Saturday night I worked on the stocking, then put it on the shelf and went to bed. Benson was sick and was up most of the night, so BJ spent the first half of the night up with him and I the second half. We were both completely exhausted by the time McKay greeted us at 7:00 am. He came in with his usual morning request to "watch a movie" and BJ, in bleary-eyed exhaustion put on an episode of Caillou and went back to bed. I was in Benson's room and heard none of this happen.
When Benson and I came out, BJ and McKay were sitting on the couch together. As soon as he saw me, McKay said, "Sorry I ruined your project Mommy". I mumbled, "It's ok honey", not having any idea what he was talking about but BJ said, "actually, it's probably not".
Apparently BJ went back to bed at 7 and fell asleep until 8:30 when he heard McKay next to the bed saying, "Daddy I found clippers" and then the distinct slice of scissors. BJ rolled over and there in McKay's hands was my beautiful project with slices around all the edges. Apparently he'd been cutting for about 40 minutes and boy does it show.

I have to admit, I was rather horrified that my hours of work had been sliced to pieces, but that fact that McKay followed me around the house kissing and hugging me and apologizing over and over again did help.

I'm still going to try and salvage the stocking but now it will be McKay's stocking and Benson will get the train stocking. And, every Christmas when we pull them out, we can tell the story about McKay and the "clippers".

An honest prayer

2010-12-11T19:12:00.000-08:00

We continue in our attempts to help McKay learn to pray. Tonight we sat down at the table to offer a blessing on our Little Ceasar's (which might be asking too much to begin with). McKay was served first and already had a mouth full of pizza by the time we were ready to offer the prayer. Nevertheless, he launched into a meal prayer by himself and said his typical, "Thank you for Nana, thank you for Papa, thank you for Becky....pause....(usually this is where the promptings begin). I suggested "Thank you for the food" but instead of repeating as he usually does, from across the table with his mouth stuffed full of pizza I heard a hearty, "Mmmm-Hmmm"!

Yes, tonight we were all very thankful for the pizza.

The Many Faces of Benson James

2010-12-09T21:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-09T19:23:00.000-08:00

For the Thanksgiving holiday this year, we took a trip down to Birmingham, Alabama to visit BJ's brother Damon, his wife Lety, and their two boys, Colton and Camden. Incidently, Camden is two days younger than McKay, so I'm sure they'll always be great friends. Indeed, all three boys had a great time and really seemed to enjoy playing together. Colton and Camden's Thomas the Train set was the hit of the weekend for McKay--thanks for sharing your toys, boys!

Homewood, where Lety and Damon live, is a lovely place. It's very lush and the weather was just perfect. The Alabama Coxes showed us a wonderful time, complete with a fantastic Thanksgiving meal, movies, treats, and fun activities with the kids. One of them was a trip to the cookie shop where the boys each got to choose their own sugar cookie. Colton's self-portait is above.

McKay loved this shop and had his nose pressed up against the glass of the display trying desperately to decide on just one cookie. It was pretty funny to see him try and decide between so many delicious options.

And Camden. Don't let that innocent look fool you. Upon closer examination you'll see a faint orange ring around his mouth. All three boys loved their treat.

I just have to add a small tribute here to my sister-in-law Lety who deserves some sort of medal of honor for supporting me in a Black Friday adventure that turned out to be a little more than we bargained for.

I've never done any Black Friday shopping. To me, the unearthly hours, tales of ridiculously long lines, and shoppers running over each other to get to the great deals was just NOT WORTH IT. Well, enter children. Now, all of the sudden, Christmas means buying toys and toys, it turns out, are expensive. So, I got this great idea that we should hit the Toys'rus sale, since I've been looking for months for a used train table for McKay with no success (they go like hot cakes on craigslist, just so you know) and Toys'rus was having a fabulous sale on one.

Lety agreed to go with me to the sale so, at 9:00 pm, off we went, thinking we'd waltz into the store at 10 pm when it opened, collected our few purchases, and breeze back out, home by midnight or so. HA! How could I possibly prepare for the scene of insanity we found as we entered the parking lot. There wasn't a parking spot within a mile of the store. The began at the doors and wrapped around the rest of the strip mall, seriously, we were about 15 stores from our destination when we began standing in line.

Then we found out that the fire marshal was only going to allow a certain number of people in the store at a time. Super. 10:00 came and went, still in front of the same store. 11:00 found us 2 stores up. 12:00 and we rounded the corner so Toyrus was actually in view which, up to this point, had not been the case. At 12:45 it began raining and at 1:00 am, freezing, exhausted, and soaking wet, we finally entered the store.

There were people everywhere, chasing madly through aisles, climbing displays to retrieve toys. It was madness. But, thankfully and miraculously, there were 3 train tables left! I literally grabbed one and sat on it, lest someone come along and rip it out of my hands. Then I discovered you could take a nifty little slip to the front of the store and load it into your car. So, we stood in yet another ridiculous line in order to check out. But at least this time it wasn't raining.

We finally got home around 2:30am and fell into bed.

So, thanks Lety, for sticking with me. And I hope you're still speaking to me. :)

Airplane Museum

2010-12-09T18:55:00.000-08:00

While in Birmingham, Damon and Lety took us to see this really great airplane museum. It had lots of real planes, some from the Vietnam War and WWII as well as many others. The boys loved the ones they could sit in and fly themselves. Here is Pilot McKay, preparing for take-off.

And little Boo getting a free ride on the diaper bag, courtesy of Dad. It was the day of the big BYU-Utah game, so we had our little Cougar all dressed up. Too bad it didn't help.

McKay and Daddy both in the cockpit! McKay did the stearing while BJ manned the gums, uh, guns. :)

And here they are again. That blur of a hand is McKay waving to me as they prepared for take-off.

Grandma Gravy's Visit

2010-12-06T11:53:00.000-08:00

Just before Thanksgiving we had a wonderful visit from my Grandma Brady. She has planned to come visit us since we moved to Kentucky and it all finally worked out! She came the weekend of the Transylvania Singers concert, so she was here to watch me conduct the women's choir. That meant so much to me. A singer herself, she has always been a big supporter of my musical aspirations, so it was a joy to bring things full-circle by having her attend this concert.

McKay and Benson loved having her here too. The day before she came, I was telling McKay that Grandma Brady was coming for a visit. He was very excited and spent the rest of the day asking when "Grandma Gravy" was going to arrive.

While she was here, we celebrated her 84th birthday! We had a nice dinner at home and carrot cake, one of her favorite desserts. Then BJ watched the kids so that she and I could go and watch the new Harry Potter movie. It was great!

We were so delighted to have Grandma be able to come and visit us. We're grateful she's still strong and able to travel and be a part of our lives. We loved having her stay and will always be grateful for the memories of her with us here in our home. Love you Grandma Gravy!

Dailies

2010-12-03T22:32:00.000-08:00

We are in the process of potty training with McKay. We've decided to take a more casual approach. We talk about going potty, we have a little potty, we have pull-ups and cool underwear AND we have the potty man. He is a little jar with a face on it that holds "potty man treats". When McKay uses the potty, he gets to choose a treat from the potty man--a big highlight. Well, in the last few days he's turned a corner and is suddenly using the potty so often that we ran out of potty man treats. Grandma Cox is here and part of her errands the other day was to bring home some new treats. Among other things, she brought home a bag of gummy worms which McKay has never seen before. When I told him the potty man had gummy worms he excitedly said, "I go potty and I get some gummy beans". Yum.

This week BJ and I have been in dress rehearsals and performances of a rather spectacular version of the Messiah, with the Lexington Philharmonic and some internationally renowned soloists. Anyway, the pressure was on, so I spent some time really getting dressed up, complete with a real hair-do and make-up. I walked out into the family room where McKay was sitting after getting ready and he looked at me and said, "Mommy, you're an angel". He got a big hug for that one.

McKay has a cold, again. He gets really frustrated with colds now because he doesn't like to have a runny nose. It really bothers him and he's constantly saying, "I need a tissue to wipe my nose." This morning at 5:00 AM he came creeping into our bedroom. He went right up next to BJ's face, held out a small square of tissue about the size of a dime and whispered rather pitifully, "Please you wipe my nose?"

Little Benson Boo is about the sweetest thing ever. He now sits up by himself and loves to play with toys. He'll sit contentedly for long stretches just handling the toys within his reach. Today we were at the children's museum and I sat him in front of a big mirror. He just started giggling at himself. He laughed and laughed like he had just found his best friend. He is an absolute delight.

Fall Photo Shoot

2010-11-28T20:48:00.000-08:00

Our boys are growing so fast; I wanted to get some pictures of them both before too much time passed. These are Benson's 6 month pictures and McKay's 2 year (and some) pictures. I took the boys by myself to get these photos done one day. How bad could it be, I thought. Well, after chasing McKay pell-mell through JC Penny multiple times and trying desperately to get one decent shot of the two of them (and we literally only got the one you see) I realized my error. In the future, this will definitely be a "family" activity--got that Beej? Anyway, it was well worth the craziness, as now we have these rather darling fall shots. Have a look. :)

2010-11-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

Silly Boys

2010-11-13T20:34:00.000-08:00

Halloween Part III

2010-11-03T05:30:00.000-07:00

Trick or Treat II

2010-11-03T05:25:00.000-07:00

We had three nights of Trick or Treating around the area so on Friday night we attended a church party and Saturday we did some door to door Trick or Treating. We went with McKay's good buddies Max and Sam Lassen and Matthew Darby. Below you'll find a Toy Story Invasion!

Buzz Lightyear showing the Woodys a thing or two.

All the boys!

A Cowboy isn't a Cowboy without his hat!

Trick or Treat Part 1

2010-10-30T22:08:00.000-07:00

Hooray for Halloween! Last evening we Trick or Treated to our neighbors houses before heading off to our annual Ward Chili Cook-off and Trunk or Treat. McKay is sporting the Woody costume, complete with handmade vest (thank you Nanna), bandana, and boots. Yee-haw!

We stopped by Dave and Vickie's and Jim and Carol's where the boys were showered with candy, stuffed animals, and their very own buckets of snacks, juice, and even books! We sure love our neighbors!

And here's preppy dad holding the cutest pumpkin I've ever seen!

Mom was sporting the orange and black striped tights and the orange and black polka-dotted eyelashes. Spooky!

Woody in a Pumpkin

2010-10-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

Our Pumpkins carving pumpkins.

It's hard to see but McKay is introducing Woody to the finer points of pumpkin-carving. Once the pumpkins were cleaned and carved McKay thought they were great...especially for stashing toys.

Three guesses on who McKay will be for Halloween. :)

It's The Great Pumpkin

2010-10-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!
Tonight marks the beginning of a weekend of Halloween fun 'round our house. Here is our little pumpkin in between our spooky creations. Though this was a "family activity", Mom and Dad ended up doing all the cleaning and carving. McKay stuck his hand in the pumpkin a grand total of one time, declared it "poopy" and "messy", then headed for the sandbox while we finished up.

Clutter

2010-10-18T11:26:00.001-07:00

I have a plan. When I build a house I will cover the ceiling in shelves. Yes, circling the ceiling fan and covering the perimeter of each room there will be shelves. Shelves for books, shelves for duplos, shelves for race cars, and blocks, and army guys, and stuffed animals. Shelves for shoes, shelves for trucks, shelves for figurines, and micro machines, and very high shelves for the loud musical toys.

Then, based on good behavior, my children will earn ladders with which they can climb up and retrieve their toys...one at a time.

Mark my words, such houses will become the norm. No mother would think of building a home without ceiling to ceiling shelving because she could then walk peacefully from room to room, free of stubbed toes and twisted ankles. No more piles to skirt, dodge, or jump over. Just clean, quiet, orderly living. *sigh*

Ah well, you'll have to excuse me while I go straighten up.

Laughing Benson

2010-10-11T08:37:00.000-07:00

I know there are a million movies of laughing babies out there, and some are more funny than this, but it's always more enjoyable when you know the baby involved... So, here ya go :)

Kentucky Vocal Union

2010-10-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

So, for any of you who don't know, I have been singing with a barbershop chorus called the Kentucky Vocal Union. It has been really fun, and this past weekend we competed at the district prelims in Columbus, Indiana. For any who may be interested, here's a link to the youtube video of our performance.

Tackle Naffer Quiet

2010-10-03T20:51:00.001-07:00

So, we were watching general conference today when McKay awoke from his nap. When the session was over and the choir was singing the final song, I said to McKay, "Can you say Mormon Tabernacle Choir?" To which he responded in a very confident tone, "Tackle Naffer Quiet." I love my boys :)

Family Pics Summer 2010

2010-09-20T05:18:00.000-07:00

As ever, BJ's sister and her husband, Tasha and Tim Conner, do a fantastic job! We are so grateful for their great photography talents and their willingness to share them so readily. Thanks for the beautiful pics, guys! We love you!

For this photo shoot, we headed out behind the sheds on the Cox farm to this old rusty Boots Cox Dairy truck. Tucked away between the sheds and the river, nearly hidden by the weeds, is this beautiful old relic--a tribute to BJ's "Grandpa Boots". Boots Cox ran a dairy farm in St. George for many years and gave much to the St. George community in its early days. Though I never knew him well, he left a wonderful tradition of giving which has carried on to his children and grandchildren. I've always been impressed by the Cox family's willingness to give and share literally anything they have with others and I know they were taught that by this man.

My favorite story about Grandpa Boots is the one I hear every summer as we drive by the Sun Bowl in S.G. BJ always says, "I loved going to the rodeo as a kid with Grandpa. He would park is camper outside the Lion's Club for two weeks before the tickets went on sale in order to get first pick of the best seats. Each year he would purchase enough tickets for all of his children and grandchildren."

More Pics

2010-09-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

Bathtime with Benson

2010-09-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

This little fellow loves his bath! He has a lot of fun bouncing and splashing and, as he is demonstrating, grabbing his toes.
He really is such a cutie. He is just a really cheerful guy. He smiles at everyone who looks in his direction. The other day we were in the grocery store and this little old lady came over and started talking to him. You'd think he'd just won the lottery or something! He was smiling the biggest smiles, laughing, and cooing at her. He is really charming and makes my days so wonderful. I thank Heavenly Father every day for sending him to our family.

All clean! There's nothing that smells quite as nice as a freshly bathed baby.

Bounce U!

2010-09-05T19:25:00.000-07:00

Dave and Bex stopped by on their cross-country drive to Washington D.C. where Becky just moved. (For more details on this miraculous story, check back soon.) We were absolutely delighted to have them spend the day with us. We headed to Bounce U for some over-sized inflatable fun. I'm really not sure who had a better time, David or McKay. Let's just say when it came time to leave, it wasn't McKay who was whining. :)

Sparring buddies!

They must have been allergic to the hand-sanitizer.

A tie for Papa

2010-08-29T20:08:00.000-07:00

This little fellow will not wear a tie. Not for candy, not for fruitsnackes, not for a trip to the moon. No way. Until he saw Papa wearing one. That changed everything. Here they are waiting outside the Draper temple, holding up their ties in celebration.

Congrats Dan and Angie!

Did you guys check this thign out this sweet tie?

And little Maggie wandering the temple grounds. So cute.

Bachelorette Party and "The Hair"

2010-08-29T19:19:00.000-07:00

For Angie's bachelorette party, we decided to do desserts at The Garden on Temple Square in SLC. Dan and Angie had their 2nd first date (3 years later) at this restaurant and, with a rooftop view of the Salt Lake Temple and an open ceiling with a beautiful view of the stars, it was the perfect setting.

We all chatted and ordered desserts while Angie answered questions about she and Dan. My favorite was her answer to "What is one of your pet peeves about Dan?" She replied that "pet peeve" was too strong a word but that one thing she noticed about Dan was his tendency to be tardy. She said she's figured out a way around it though. She said, you can't rush Dan along (boy is that the truth) but you can get him to skip things e.g. "you don't need to shave, you look just fine" etc.

Becky and I were seriously impressed and not a little embarrassed that we lived with him for 20 years and never figured that out. (Guess that's what happens when you marry a scientist. She's always problem-solving.) :)

I knew when she said that (and all the other sweet things she said about Dan) that they were going to be blissfully happy. Love you Angie!

Fast-forward to the morning of the wedding. Becky and I met Angie at her house to do her hair for the wedding. Becky and I are certainly not hair-pros and there was a fair amount of nail-biting on our way there, hoping we wouldn't mess up the bride's hair on her wedding day. However, we pulled ourselves together and were happy to perform our sisterly duty. Here is the result (above). We were pretty proud of our efforts and thought Angie's hair looked beautiful.

Croquet Champion

2010-08-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

T-ball? HA! Who needs it when you can play THIS! Croquet, the sport of champions. And how better to nurture a champion than to start him early. We have high hopes for this one; look at that form!
McKay's authentic "Blue Steel". Don't be surprised if you see this on the cover of the next issue of Croquet Today.

Family BBQ

2010-08-22T17:41:00.000-07:00

Grandpa and Grandma Anna Lou, Kent and Grace

The evening before their "I do's", we celebrated with Dan and Angie at a big family BBQ at my Aunt and Uncle's house in South Jordan. The Shepherds graciously shared their beautiful backyard with a host of Berg's, Robertsons, Kreider's and Bairds. I believe Heaven will consist of events such as this--being surrounded by those you love so well, just enjoying the pleasure of each other's company.

It was great to share delicious food and catch up with everyone before the Temple ceremony the following day. We had awesome pulled pork sandwiches with fresh slaw on top (SO GOOD), fresh Utah corn on the cob that was Mostly paid for (more on that later), and great salads from Grandma and the Aunts.Yum!

The Happy Couple

Chuck (Angie's Dad), Angie, Dan, and Grammy Baird

Family BBQ Part 2

2010-08-22T17:23:00.000-07:00

The beautiful backyard

Everyone enjoying the food

No Robertson/Shepherd/Kreider family event would be complete without a rousing game of croquet. Here they are, the few, the proud, the brave...

California Beef Rice !#

2010-08-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

He tried to say skillet, he really did. It just wouldn't quite come out. Somehow the "sk" turned into "sh" and it was downhill from there. So instead of Mommy preparing a nice wholesome Beef Rice Skillet meal, she served Beef Rice _____. Anyone want to come for dinner?

Home Again

2010-08-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

After an extended stay in Utah for 6 weeks, we are back to our "Old Kentucky Home". We had a fabulous time seeing lots of family and friends, celebrating TWO weddings, and getting BJ through his first round of Dental Boards (he passed!!!). We have plenty of pictures and stories to share but for now, here are a few pics of the boys since arriving home.
Benson is nearly 4 months old and is nothing short of sheer delight. He smiles all the time and giggles every time I change his clothes. His favorite place is on dad's tummy (below). This is especially cute because we have lots of pictures of BJ as a baby sleeping similarly on his dad (and mm, and several siblings).

Benson's Photo Shoot with Sarah

2010-06-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

Our dear friend Sarah Lassen has recently started a photography business and graciously used her talents on our little Benson. I love these pictures of him at 6 weeks old. He was very alert through the entire session. We had hoped he would sleep so we could get some curled up little newborn shots but Sarah still managed to get some great shots of him. Above is BJ's favorite.
His seriously tiny feet. McKay's feet were bigger than this at birth.
Rachel's favorite. :)
Yes, this is him holding himself up at 6 weeks. He's very curious and likes to see the world.
A little outdoor action. He wears this concerned look most of the time. It's pretty funny.

Thanks so much, Sarah! We love them!

McKay's First Prayer

2010-06-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

Tonight as I was putting McKay to bed, I decided to urge him to repeat what I was saying for our nightly prayer. So, the prayer went something like this (B=BJ, M=McKay)

B: "McKay, say 'Heavenly Father'"

M: *pause* "Henny Fodder" (said in such a quiet whisper that I could hardly make it out)

B: (trying to hold in a chuckle) "Thank You"

M: "Tank You"

B: "For Today"

M: "Tanks Momma... Tanks Nanna, Tanks Papa..."

B: "Thanks for Daddy"

M: ..... "Tanks for Papa"

B: "Please Bless"

M: "Peas Bess"

B: "us"

M: "us"

B: "to be happy"

M: "Bess us Seeping" (sleeping)

B: "In the name"

M: "Name jeezkeist"

B: "Amen"

M: "Amen!"

McKayisms

2010-06-04T17:40:00.000-07:00

McKay has turned into quite the talker. We call him our narrator because he literally narrates both his own and everyone else's every move. It's actually quite a handy little trait because, not only do we constantly hear things like, "Pay (McKay's name for himself) eat food", "Pay all done", or "Mommy hold you (meaning Mommy hold me)" but we also get warning of intended misdemeanors. We've been able to stymie several ill-meaning attacks by overhearing things such as, "Hit baby brother", "Pay bite Mommy", or "Throw toy" while they're still in the planning stages. Saves a lot of time-outs.

Recent Funny Phrases include:

Fice Juice (Spicy Juice aka soda pop)

Zanya, it ficey (Lasagna, it's spicy)

Baby hold Pay (meaning the opposite)

McKay tends to be a bit timid about swinging. Okay, he hates it. When we go to the park he MAY sit in the swing but usually panics whenever it actually starts swinging. However, the other day we were swinging with Trisha and baby Shaelynn (who, incidentally, was swinging much higher than McKay and loving it) and Trisha gave McKay an underdog. We reassured him that it was fun. After the first underdog he looked terrified. He was gripping the swing with all his strength and staring at the ground looking absolutely miserable. However, instead of screaming he started saying, "fun", "fun", "fun" in a shaky little voice. He sounded anything but convinced but it sure was funny!

In other news, McKay has discovered he can climb! Oh boy. Yesterday Becky went in to fetch him from his crib after naps. She entered the room and found him straddling the crib, half-way in and half-way out. When asked what he was doing, he simply replied, "climbing"! How one can be frightened of swinging but happy to clamber over the rails of ones crib, I don't understand, but there you have it!

More Park Pics

2010-05-29T07:04:00.000-07:00

Since I can only upload a few pictures per post, here is the continuation of the park pics from the other day. Isn't Kentucky beautiful in the summer?

At the Park

2010-05-27T17:10:00.000-07:00

My beautiful sister, Becky is here being our nanny for a month. Thank goodness! Having two little ones is tough but with Bex here to help, it's been a lot easier and a lot more fun!

Yesterday we went to the park for play group and to celebrate our friend Trisha's birthday. We had lots of fun hanging out and watching the kiddos play. Boy, summer sure is nice!

And here's Aunt Becky with both boys. Like I said, she as been an amazing help. Having her around has made this big transition in our family so much easier. Today while she and I were watching a movie during the boys' naptime, I realized that history was repeating itself. I have vague memories of my mom and her sister hanging out together when I was a little kid. They would let us play while they watched movies together, just like Bex and I were doing. My mom always said it was so wonderful to live by her sister and be able to raise their kids together. I remember how happy we were as kids to be able to live close to our cousins and play with them all the time. As I spend time with my sister and we raise kids together (well, she helps me raise my kids anyway) I realize how wonderful it would be to have her close by all the time. Life is more fun with her around. :)

Mr. Benson

2010-05-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here's our little Benson at 10 days old. He has continued to be very sweet and gentle. He only cries when he's hungry and still loves to snuggle. He seems to be a very content little fellow and we just adore him.

Cuddle time with Nanna.

Kisses!

More Mr. Benson

2010-05-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

Not even 2 weeks old and already up and at it!

Nanna with her TWO handsome grandbabies.

A close-up of little Mr.

We're Home

2010-05-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

We made it home from the hospital and are now enjoying our family of four! It has been a big adjustment for us all, particularly for Big Brother McKay as he learns the finer points of such things as "gentle", "soft", and "quiet". We'll get there. In the meantime, we are having fun playing with both of our boys and watching them interact.

These are some pics of Benson at six days old. He is a sweet, snuggly, and very mild-mannered baby. He loves to cuddle and sleeps like a champ as long as he has company. We love cuddling with him and feeling his peaceful spirit.

Oh, and by the way, the first pic at the top looks very similar to Rachel's sister, Becky. Wuz up Bex? :)

Benson James Cox

2010-04-27T08:10:00.000-07:00

So, to start off, here's the pregnant picture of Rachel (she would never let me take one before the hospital)

He's Here! Benson James Cox was born at 5:00pm on Monday, April 26, 2010. So here's how everything went...

We came to the hospital at 10pm on Sunday night, but apparently there was a miscommunication somewhere in the hospital and they weren't expecting us until Monday night. Fortunately, they called the doctor and confirmed that we were there at the right time and they let us in. They got things started with the induction around 11:30, and we were on our way. When the anesthesiologist gave the epidural, he had a bit of trouble because Rachel is so small. Apparently, he went into the dura (the tough material around the spinal cord) when he was supposed to go around it (epi = near/on top of), so he had to do it twice. Fortunately, the second one took pretty well for a while. Toward the end, the epidural began to wear off and Rachel felt just about everything the last hour or so. The good news is that she only pushed for about 15 minutes before Benson came out, whereas she had to push two and a half hours with McKay.

Now to the part that everyone really cares about...

Benson is a beautiful healthy baby boy. He weighed in at 7lbs 5oz, and measured 20 inches. Here are some pics.

Fast Track to the Hospital

2010-04-23T07:28:00.003-07:00

Well, I'd never ridden in an ambulance before, until yesterday that is. And honestly, it's not nearly as glamorous as it might seem. I couldn't open my eyes, so I didn't actually see the inside but I vaguely remember it being a bumpy ride and wishing the attendant would stop asking me so many questions. Funny the things you remember in crisis.

Let me back up and explain what happened. First, no baby yet. He's fine and is scheduled to make his appearance sometime on Monday (induction begins Sunday evening). That is the biggest relief of all.

Here's the story:

Yesterday I was having a lot of pain in my stomach but I had my 39 week check up, so I went and talked with my doc about it. She did the regular exam and said everything looked fine. We both assumed I was just having contractions so we scheduled the induction and I headed home. A couple of hours after I got home I started feeling really sick and strange. I managed to get McKay down for a nap and thought I would take one too. It was when I laid down that everything happened. All of the sudden I felt so sick and had some sort of attack of horrible nausea, faintness, and pain around the baby. Everything went black and I stopped feeling him move (he'd been very active up to that point). I could feel myself about to faint so I blindly searched for my cell phone and managed to reach my friend Trisha down the street. She came running and literally saved me. I was so weak and faint I don't remember much but we ended up getting a ride in the ambulance. By the time we reached the hospital, I couldn't feel my limbs and my face was numb. They kept asking me questions but I couldn't talk, my face was so stiff and felt like it had been anesthetized. I couldn't open my eyes or move my arms or legs, it was all so strange.

BJ, who had been at school, met us at the hospital and was able to field the questions. Finally they gave me an IV and were able to stabilize things. I eventually regained feeling and consciousness and was able to head home, though the doctors couldn't figure out what had happened. The on-call doc basically said that, according to the lab work, everything should be fine. He said his best guess was that this was the way my body goes into labor (oh great!). Really makes me excited for future pregnancies.

Today I feel weak and tired but much better than before. I just want to say thank you to all the people who literally saved me yesterday, both by taking care of me and helping me but also by helping with McKay while I was gone. We have incredible friends and neighbors and church members who are our surrogate family and who were nothing short of angels to me and my family yesterday. In the words of Elder Holland:

When we speak of those who are instruments in the hand of God, we are reminded that not all angels are from the other side of the veil. Some of them we walk with and talk with—here, now, every day. Some of them reside in our own neighborhoods.[...] Indeed heaven never seems closer than when we see the love of God manifested in the kindness and devotion of people so good and so pure that angelic is the only word that comes to mind.

I testify of angels, both the heavenly and the mortal kind. In doing so I am testifying that God never leaves us alone, never leaves us unaided in the challenges that we face. “[N]or will he, so long as time shall last, or the earth shall stand, or there shall be one man [or woman or child] upon the face thereof to be saved.”13

On occasions... we may feel we are alone in dark and dreary places...but even then the Father of us all is watching and assisting. And always there are those angels who come and go all around us, seen and unseen, known and unknown, mortal and immortal.

“I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, … my Spirit shall be in your [heart], and mine angels round about you, to bear you up."

So, thank you to each of my angels.