Ahh Sugar Sugar- The Sweet Life

To my Malia

2011-10-02T13:01:00.000-07:00

When I first held you, you lifted your head off of my shoulder, turned, and looked at me like, "Who's a baby? I'm not, I am a big girl!" And you have been trying to prove that to me ever since. Well, yesterday, as I watched you play in the waves and on the sand, it hit me. You ARE a big girl! How did you grow so fast? You are tall, skinny, long golden curly locks down your back, where did the time go? I can only imagine in my very near future saying the same thing as you hit more major mile stones in your life.
Now that you are 3 1/2 years old, I feel like you have come into your own. Out of any other time in your life, you seem to feel like you have finally reached the age you always knew you were. I am sure that will just be more and more the case as you grow, always striving to be "a big girl." Just remember, no matter how big you get, how many years go by, you will always, always, be my baby girl. I love you with all of my heart, you are my daughter, my friend. You make me laugh and the things you say scare me sometimes, just because they are such grown up things to say! You have amazing talents and I am so excited to see what you do with them. You are compassionate and loving, you LOVE babies and making food. Your smile lights up the room and my entire world. I love you forever and always.

Love, your Mommy Becky

I Won~!

2011-02-16T08:03:00.001-08:00

Guess what!? You know those little contests they have on paper glitter sometimes? Well... I won one! I got a $20 gift certificate to their shop. Oh how much fun I am going to have making all my little paper crafts! Yippee!

A second look at a previous blog

2011-01-21T19:44:00.000-08:00

Ok, first of all I apologize once again for not knowing where I got the writing from my previous blog where did she go?   This time I am going to give credit where credit is due~! 

My friend Sarah (private blog but hey, when I give credit I give credit!) recently shared a link to an article that I found so fascinating here. Read it first. Ok, done reading? After I read this it made me think immediately of my blog post mentioned above, "where did she go?" I wanted to add my two cents after reading both of these articles. 

I completely agree with both. As my friend Sarah (other Sarah) commented, that part about the "frantic kicking going on under water" is soooo true. I am the first to say I am not perfect, I am saying it right now, far far far from perfect! Some of you are probably shaking your heads in agreement right now ;) But who wants to trash themselves on their blog? Who wants to put down a type of history on here of all the stuff that was going wrong? WHO wants to read THAT!?And more importantly, who wants to really share all of those personal details? I feel the bad stuff to be much more personal than the good stuff for some reason. 

I know, some of you are super good at laughing at yourselves and really showing your true colors so that we can really see how real you are. Thank you! You have a gift! But others of us, like me, might not be so good at showing the bad with the good. Heck, I really have no room to talk since I have been on a blog sabbatical for like a year, right!? Plus I don't claim to put myself in a category with all of you other AMAZING bloggers, I think I am aaa-ight, but do feel blessed to be put in the category of "stay at home Mommy blogger".

Well, hear me out. We have it straight now, right? Those friends that we think are perfect are really not, bottom line. BUT, and here is the big but (hehe) lets give some credit where it is due! (that is becoming a theme here). You ARE awesome. Mormon or not, all my little housewife blogger friends out there- you are doing some good! There is a reason people read your blog, even if they are not in the same situation as you in life- YOU ARE UPLIFTING! Your life is uplifting. Blogging gives you credit where credit is due. You work hard to be a good wife, work WITH your husband at being great parents, make your home beautiful, develop your talents, and you share it all with us, and we appreciate it! It makes me and everyone that reads your blog feel good inside. So, I aspire to have an uplifting blog this year. Thanks for your great example, and keep up the good work!

A special Mommy Daughter date

2011-01-21T19:12:00.000-08:00

I went on a special date last week with my favorite little girl. It was a surprise date so you can imagine the girly screaming and shouting that went on when she realized where we were... Disneyland! We did whatever she wanted to do, and boy did she run me ragged! I was pooped! Way more than carting all three of them around. High energy does not even begin to describe my baby girl.
Oh, and P.S.- Guess who is attempting potty training again!? That is right, miss Malia. So far so good. I am sticking to it this time. Wish us luck! I made a special potty chart, she gets to put up stickers for all her #1s and #2s and when it is filled she gets a new toy. She is excited, for now anyway.

FREE wallpaper for the LOVEly month of Feb.

2011-01-10T21:01:00.000-08:00

Found this cute desktop wallpaper and had to share! For all of my fellow lovers of photography or hearts or art or whatever, isn't it cute!? Enjoy! Just right click on the image and click save as desktop background, wah la! Happy Valentines day...next month ;)

P.S. I snagged this from a little website called social wallpapering. Pretty cool.

Let's take a closer look...

2011-01-10T13:02:00.000-08:00

I am sure that those of you who have given birth to children have gone through something like this. In fact, I have spoken to several different friends who feel the same way as me. It is a new concept for me because, as most of you know, our first two children are adopted! Ok, so what the heck am I talking about, right?
It goes a little something like this. Your pregnant, yeah! All our lives we have wondered what kind of beautiful babies we would one day make. Would they have my eyes, my chin, my nose, my ugly feet, etc.? And secretly (most of us I think) want to have that baby coming out looking at least somewhat like us right!? I mean we are the ones that are incubating and creating them for 9+ (+ in my case!) months!
Don't get me wrong, I love my husband and want my baby to look like him too, but, call it selfish or what you may, I want them to look more like me... insert selfish girly laugh here.
I know we are all different. Many of you will not agree with me on that. That is ok. I just grew up feeling such a connection to my family, my ancestors, and wanted so badly to have that feeling of pride when I saw my baby and they had some features that came from my gene pool (as I said before, maybe a little more of mine then my hubbies... there is that laugh again).
Well, lucky for me I married a Mormon. Not just any Mormon, but a Mormon that looks like a Mormon. I mean he has some hard core Mormon genes going on. I have my theories as to why that is (some cross pollination going on back in the pioneer days maybe? ;) ) But still, you can tell those are some strong genes. I mean everyone in his whole family looks the same ( and yes, he is the oldest of 7 children). So, I thought I was doomed. That none of my kids would look like me.
Fast forward, past us finding out we could not have kids, to adopting 2 kids. Yippee! I was fine (remember, I realize this whole post shows some of my true colors, so don't judge me monkey) with our kids not looking like me in that case, just as long as they did not look like him either! And it did not hurt that they both are so exotic and beautiful looking. You can't really complain about that!
And then, fast forward to last year. I get pregnant! Oh how nervous I was. Here comes another confession... I would pray that the baby would look like me. Is that so selfish!? I mean really, that sounds pretty superficial. But really, I was so grateful to be pregnant and immediately repented of my selfish prayer and just prayed for a healthy baby. I felt the situation was helpless and braced myself for a mini-Mike to come out of me.
Then he was born! He was/is gorgeous! The minute I saw him I was full of gratitude! He looked like the perfect mix of us both. I was so happy.
Then came the "people" as I call them. Seems as soon as you have a baby (birth a baby) everyone wants to put in their two cents about who they look like (remember, no one really did that to me with the first two). The overwhelming consensus was that he looked just like Mike. What!? NO, I swear he looks like me too. I am not just saying that (this is what I thought to myself).
So, after just over a year I have come to today. Time to do a study. I am good with detail right? I mean I am a wedding photographer for crying out loud. I am here to prove my point... this kid is a PERFECT mix of the both of us! And... don't worry, I still love you and respect your opinion if you don't agree with me. ;)

Subject #1- A one Michael Jones. Age:6mo. old

Subject #2- A one Elijah Jones. Age: 6 mo. old

Subject #3- A one Becky Jones. Age: 6 mo. old 

So, let us begin. What do you think? Want to know what I see? 
1. The obvious, Eli has Mike's mouth, but a little different. Might have a mix of mine in there ?? He has a bigger upper lip than mike did anyway. 
2. He for sure has my eyes. The shape and color. 
3. The hair is a recessive gene, both Mike and I have blonds in our families. My sister has white hair like Eli does. 
4. I believe his nose is a perfect mix of mine and Mikes... a little more like mine though... he has my nostrils.
5. He has my forehead. 
6. He has my huge hands, but more of Mike's finger nails. 
7. He has my butt (don't ask how we know that, but it is a fact). 
and 8. The rest is just a mix, his face shape is a good mix of us both. Mike says he has my ears but I can't tell. 

Bottom line... I love this kid and am so grateful for him! I hate that, because he is from us, we tend to nit pick more about where he gets what (think about it, when you see a negative quality in your child you tend to point the finger at yourself or your spouse, like, "oh, he got that from you!". The beauty of adoption, you don't do that! They are completely unique in your eyes, truly their own individual. 
My goal is to try to remember that and treat Eli the same. Give him credit for all of his own good and bad qualities through his life, and be the best Mommy I can be. Thanks for reading my ranting. P.S.- don't tell anyone I told you this ;) 

And here, just for fun, a Disney moment brought to you by Eli Jones and one from back in the day by Becky Roberts-Jones...

My Pet Project this Month

2011-01-08T19:21:00.000-08:00

We are having a special program this month for the teen age girls (young women) at my church (ward). I am one of the leaders in charge and am so excited to put my creativity thinking cap on! So far this is what I have. For those of you who are LDS and looking for a New Beginnings theme here is what we came up with: Be Loyal to the Royal within you
(helping the girls to remember who they truly are and where they came from, that they are the Daughters of a Heavenly King)
We will be making the whole evening a royal event, complete with tiaras and castles! Here is the invite I made out of dowels, those little wood buttons you use to cover holes, gold spray paint and parchment paper. Thanks to my good friend Sarah for coming over and helping me assemble all 50 of them! More to come as the planning and preparation continues!

Where did she go?

2011-01-06T18:10:00.000-08:00

I had a third baby, and that seriously just killed my blogging. I miss it, and I miss having that history to look back on over the past year. I also used to take way more pictures. So, my New Years resolution is to 1. Stop drinking soda and 2. to start blogging again. Here it goes! Wish me luck!

To begin, I read this wonderful article and had to share (oh man, I just closed the page and cannot credit the author! SO sorry, I am such a rebel!) It is from the Mormon Times though. Enjoy the read and think about how amazing you are... and how not so amazing the people you think are more amazing than you are :) 

What you don't see, when we all march into church on Sunday morning, is the chaos of the morning that happened just 10 minutes earlier.

What you don't see, when you look at my four little boys in their suits, is that the 7-year-old is wearing Dad's socks because we couldn't find his. And they go all the way up to his knees.

What you don't see, when I pull out the lovely quiet book I made a few years back, is that below it, in my church bag, are five baggies of smashed raisins because I haven't cleaned out the bag for months.

When you enter my house, with its shining entryway, you don't see the three loads of laundry dumped on my bed. Or the dirty pots I stashed in the oven. And you will never see the interior of my minivan, not until I find the time to vacuum it out.

When you admire the hand-sewn pajamas I made for all the kids, we don't talk about the three nights I got no sleep to make those.

If you look on my blog, you will see pictures of homemade chicken noodle soup with homemade noodles. You won't see my confession to popping in a frozen pizza THREE times last week for dinner.

Or the night we ate Cheerios for dinner, dry, because we were out of milk. There is a zoom on my camera for a reason. There is a delete button for a reason.

I don't think we're all playing a part. We naturally want to put our best selves forward, so that is what other people see. They don't see what's going on behind the scenes. I like to think that good parenting is like a duck on the water. What you see is the gentle, almost effortless gliding, not the furious paddling that happens underneath.

I keep a mental list of about ten people I want to stalk by camera, from morning to night, to see how they do it all. Are they up at 4 a.m.? Can they survive on three hours of sleep? Do they have a housekeeper? Because I drop balls just as fast as I can grab them. My intentions are of pure gold, but they come out as tinkling brass, at best.

I started a blog last fall. I dragged my feet into it for many reasons. One of the main reasons I hesitated was I didn't want to be another contributor to the cyberspace guiltosphere out there. Especially where mothers are concerned, do we need one more reason to feel guilty?

Because from the looks of things, other families are happier, their houses are cleaner, their marriages are better, their clothes are more stylish and their craftiness is even more crafty. Their lives are perfectly lovely, while my kids are running around screaming in their diapers.

My worst fears were confirmed last week when I got an e-mail from a friend who asked, "How do you do it all? Your column, your blog, all the things you do with your children? You're amazing!"

I looked around at my house, at the six bins of winter clothes waiting to be transported to the garage, at the sewing projects stacked against the wall, at the state of the toothpaste crusted to the sink ... I let things go, a lot of things.

A spanking-clean house is not a high priority for me. I'm a big believer in mud and its importance in a child's life. The time I take to write is time away from scrubbing that bathroom sink. I would rather read with my kids than shop at the mall, so I am certainly not up-to-date on the latest styles. I've been listening to the same music for 20 years because I can't seem to keep up with the latest music scene. And I require a lot of sleep.

We all have priorities. For some, it is keeping a spotless house, and they are good at it. For others, it is writing, or exercising, or serving others. And yes, there are some who seem to do it all, the Benjamin Franklins of the world. I tell myself I don't have to be them. And also, Benjamin Franklin was not much of a family man. Even he let things go.

What we don't see, when we look at each other on Sunday, or on blogs, or in our shiny kitchens, is that we all have different talents and unique situations. I tell my kids all the time: Life is not a race. The only person you are competing against is yourself.

What we forget to see, when admiring others, is our own personal finish line.

Gianna Jessen Abortion Survivor in Australia Part 1

2010-10-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

This woman is a miracle, amazing, and has an amazing calling in life as an anti-abortion activist. This holds a special place in my heart as we would not have our two oldest children if their Angel Mothers had chosen a different path for them. I hope that I too can have the courage to proclaim my Faith in my Savior Jesus Christ whenever I am prompted to in life. I know that He lives, that He loves ME and that He loves YOU.

Happy Early Birthday Dad!

2010-07-17T15:12:00.000-07:00

Why am I saying Happy Birthday early!? Because I have some time right now and who knows when the stars will align for me again!

Soooo.... love you Dad! Thanks for being so amazing, knowing EVERYTHING about everything, giving ME so many good qualities ;) and always being there when I need you! You really are just an all around amazing Man and I am SO SO SO lucky to call you Dad.

Handsome x 3

2010-07-17T15:06:00.000-07:00

I LOVE THEM I LOVE THEM I LOVE THEM... Malia was sleeping, the boys were lounging, I was gardening. I love summer days.

The latest bloom in our sprint garden

2010-06-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

A dinner plate Dalhia. SO beautiful. I love spring. More photos of our Spring garden to come!

gabeskillsthroughtheyears2010

2010-06-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

The Handwriting project~!

2010-06-03T12:04:00.000-07:00

Thanks Sarah - This gave me a chance to practice writing on my new computer pen and tablet. Kind of messy, but you get the idea! Would LOVE to see anyone else's writing. Just leave a comment that you are doing it and I will check out your blog. There is something so personal and sweet about handwritten words versus computer letters. 

Here is what you do: 
Write down the following, snap a picture (or scan the document), post it, and tag others.


1. Name/Blog Name
2. Right handed, left handed or both
3. Favorite letters to write
4. Least favorite letters to write
5. Write: The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
6. Write in caps:
CRAB
HUMOR
KALEIDOSCOPE
PAJAMAS
GAZILLION
7. Favorite song lyrics
8. Tag 7 people
9. Any special note or drawing


Sarah- We are opposites! I prefer the harsh lines vs. the roundy ones ;) SO, my fav letters are probably your worse nightmares! ;) Love it! Thanks again for sharing! 

A bakers dozen

2010-05-31T14:13:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from parenting magazine. Mini donuts! They were a big hit. All you do is roll cheerios in powdered sugar (let the kids help, messy but super fun!) or dip them in chocolate syrup and sprinkles. Then they each get a dozen donuts. We had these and then a "real" snack afterward. It was a big hit all around!

Creativity boot camp!

2010-05-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am going for it ! And beyond that, I am announcing that I am going for it to the blogging world! Which means I better stick to it right !? Check it out, maybe we can do it together

Jim Breuer on "Why Mothers Need Their Sleep"

2010-05-23T16:32:00.000-07:00

My friend Luisa emailed this to me. Mike and I were CRYING laughing, thought I would share. Also, the second one is pretty funny too ;)

Thought for a Sabbath day

2010-05-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

One of my old institute teachers ( like a bible study of sorts) has started the most amazing blog. It has enriched my Sunday mornings. As I sit at the computer, eating my cereal or bagel or eggs, I eagerly open my internet to read Bill Riley's latest thoughts for a Sabbath day. I wanted to share his latest one with you, something I think we could all use to reflect on where we are at and be reminded of a bigger picture. I hope you enjoy his words and I hope you can return often to his blog on your Sunday morning to get some words of wisdom.

Written by William Riley:

There are some events in our lives which by their very nature cause us to pause and pensively take a personal inventory on where we are and what brought us to this point. I remember as we sat as a family in the Reno Convention Center witnessing the high school graduation of our eldest son, out of the air thoughts which covered almost two decades flashed through my mind. Besides the wondrous things which had transpired in the family life of Kathleen and I, our family had increased to where it had maxed out to be composed of five sons and a daughter. It was a period where we made six major moves in three different states, and my personal life had gone from struggling student/construction worker to what would be a life long journey of eager learning and sharing thoughts with others.

The fundamentals of religion and philosophy seemed to change as rapidly as the cars on the freeways speeding by in a blur bearing their propagandizing bumper stickers. ‘God is Dead.’ ‘Do Your Own Thing.’ ‘I Found IT.’ ‘The Moral Majority.’

Automobiles were no longer called sedans, coupes, four doors and hardtops, but had been transformed into Cougar’s, Mustang’s, Dart’s and Malibu’s.

It was an age when parents ‘Spocked’ their kids and made every effort to make sure the offspring would be ‘OK’since the parents were also ‘OK’, while all the time they were being assured of the futility of their efforts because the children as well as the parents would all end up suffering terminal cases of ‘Future Shock.’

Last year as we sat in the Lawler Events Center in Reno and attended the graduation of another grandson I reflected on the passing of another three decades of life. Our family now bragged of 17 grandchildren and we had made two more major moves which included a wonderful three years in the beautiful country of Colombia. I had ‘retired’ from my teaching career and became aware of my days rapidly being filled up with all kinds of new adventures.

Religion had now become a way for comedians to bring laughter to parishioners congregated in clubs and bars. Church’s were springing up to gain tax advantages. Sermons and sacred hymns were delivered into homes on flat screen HD televisions while the followers vegged in pajamas and snacked on sugar laden cereals.

Automobiles were now identified by indistinguishable letters and numbers. People on the freeway are seen waving at cars with similar alphabetical and numerical labels as if they had some kind of special bond.

Parents were now constantly being pulled between raising their children with ‘tough love’ and not doing anything which would damage the fragile psyche of the tender child. Children had learned to use threats of lawful retribution for any corporal punishment which might be administered.

In these moments of reflection I would hope we would always take a deep breath and pause long enough as change swirls around us to reflect on the value of being founded upon principles which we as well as future generations can depend and which will be the cement which holds societies intact.

It may be well to consider that no matter how wise and sophisticated our ever-expanding internet-fed ever-learning makes us feel, we will never be able to supplant the teachings of Jesus Christ as the firm foundation upon which to build a fitly framed world.

About peace: Peace will never be found universally upon this earth until each of us truly comes to believe, understand and act as if there is one universal family.

About love: Love in my life will only increase as I demonstrate my love to others through edifying, building and strengthening actions.

About success: Success will never be measured by the number of lives I control, but only by the number I serve.

About worship: The most sincere form of worship is done when finding and lifting those who are down-trodden and lost.

The next time we find ourselves in one of those activities which tend to stimulate reflection and contemplation on what has and is transpiring during the rapidly disappearing days of our mortality it might be well to let our thoughts sort through the man-made mountain of philosophies which have been tested, found wanting and cast aside after their 15 minutes of trial and then in that quiet moment ponder and resolve to seriously determine to reestablish the teachings of the Savior as the foundation of our experiences in the laboratories of our lives.

THOUGHTS FOR A SABBATH DAY – WILLIAM L. RILEY

Easter Blessings

2010-03-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

What a special time of year! I love Easter and the wonderful message it brings... Christ has risen! We are so blessed to have Him as an example, a Savior, and an Elder Brother. Happy Easter to you all!
Here are some Easter photos we snapped quickly before church last Sunday. Hope you enjoy watching my children "HAM" it up ;)

Trip to AZ- Gabe 4 and Malia 2

2010-03-22T12:53:00.003-07:00

Photos from our recent visit to Arizona. Family and cousins... who could ask for more.

Eli is 3 months!

2010-03-09T14:29:00.000-08:00

 Time for another photo shoot of my little man! He is full of smiles these days and we are all just so in love with Eli. I had so much fun photographing him at my friend Conrad's studio. Thanks for letting me use your studio equipment Conrad! 2 year old and 4 year old pics of Malia and Gabe coming soon- for now, enjoy this little lover...

I AM.... IRON MAN!!

2010-02-26T16:21:00.000-08:00

Obsess much !? Yes... he is o-b-s-e-s-s-e-d!
Gabe is all Iron Man all the time. He eats sleeps and drinks Iron Man. Watches the movie daily, wears his costume daily (unless it gets stinky and Mommy is washing it- needed right about now), had 3 or 4 different action figures, knows everyone's real names from the movie, and as of this week, has his first Iron Man comic book.
This has been the case since fall, I don't think his obsession is going to end anytime soon.
I found a really cool comic book store and got him that comic book. I plan on taking him back there soon so he can talk to the cool comic book guy that knows anything and everything about Iron Man (and every other super hero if we are getting detailed). Can't wait!

And here is Eli with the chickenpox :( He was such a trooper and did not even act sick at all. He is pretty much over them now and we are glad for that! No fever and no problems thank heavens. Lets just hope he built up an immunity to them. I don't want to go through that ever again!

Right now...

2010-02-26T16:06:00.000-08:00

I am thinking... I wish I did not just eat 3 girl scout cookies! These cookies are going to be the end of me. And I have been doing so good with my diet and work out! Just counter acting my skateboarding with Gabe today and my run.. boo hoo.

I am wearing... REAL shorts (no elastic prego band on top... thank you very much!) and one of my favorite coral colored long shirts. And my hair is a wet frizzy mess. Going to take care of that right after I am done with this.

I am creating... I am so glad to ponder on this question right now because I am usually creating SO many things but have not taken any time since Eli was born to do one stinkin thing. Got to get right on that!
I am going... out to dinner with the hubby and in-laws.. to SUSHI!! My first time since Eli was in my belly. SO excited! (Thanks Auntie Meesh for watching the rugrats!)

I am reading... WE all know that I don't read! Come on, give me a break.

I am hoping... To continue to loose the prego weight quickly and that I can get my eyebrows waxed SOON they are like woolly mammoths right now.

I am hearing... the low hum of the baby monitor. I don't know how to get it to stop making that noise. Drives me crazy but have to leave it on so I can hear when Eli wakes up. Oh, and it is so quiet right now because Mr. Jones took the other two little critters to the park... ahhhh..... peaceful.

Around the house... Pretty clean! Gotta love having two women in the home to keep it in order! Probably not what my Mother-in-law would say, I am sure this is much messier than she is used to but from my perspective it is much cleaner!

One of my favorite things... Oh there are so many! I would have to say the smell of Hawaii. I miss it, I crave it so often latley. That sticky feel of the air with the salt dancing around you and the smell... I don't even know how to describe it! You know what I am talking about if you have been there. If not, go !! And you will love it too!

A few plans for the rest of the week... Let me check my calendar! We will go into next week since it is already Friday, yeah! I have a facial appointment on Monday, yes I know you are jealous but please keep in mind I have earned this and it is MUCH needed, a photo shoot on Tuesday. And Tuesday night a fun party with all my young ladies where we are going to learn to put on makeup and do our hair better. Wednesday I will probably go to the skatepark with Gabe again, Thursday we are having a triple b-day party for Auntie, Gabe, and Malia with my family. Friday is another photo shoot, and then... SOSOSOSOSO excited!! Marsha is coming into town! (one of my besties ;) Can't wait to play with her and Dante.

Thanks Betsy! Re-post this my friends and let us know what is goin on with you! I really should have called you Bets and had a live person conversation right now instead of typing this but I will call you soon my love ! Needed a moment of no talking to just enjoy the light clicking of the key board (and my noisy monitor, ug! ) Luv ya!

Eli's 1st Beach Day!

2010-02-12T17:50:00.000-08:00

Uncle Nick is in town, Yeah! That means fun beach day in the middle of winter (which we normally would not do because it is way too cold for this So. Cal girl to go play on the beach right now). But... that means Eli got to have his 1st beach day already! He (OF COURSE!) LOVEd it!

Gabe and Malia didn't mind the fun either. They love their Uncle Nick and enjoyed throwing rocks in the water and digging holes in the sand with him.

Eli is getting SO big and stinkin cute, don't ya think! ? And I was excited to fit (very tightly, but still fit) into some REAL shorts (non-pregnancy) that I had. The weight is coming off VERY slowly, but I am grateful to see some improvement from all my hard work. It is harder to loose weight after pregnancy, but I am determined! My goal is to be comfy in a bathing suit by summer... wish me luck! And encouraging comments are ALWAYS welcome ;)

Eli chillin in the beach chair

Eli and Daddy are the only ones in the whole world I think that can make this face. I don't have those nose/lip muscles ;)

Eli with Daddy and Nick and the kids in the background

Yes, that water is freezing and NO Malia did not even flinch. Mike had to run out and save her from getting smashed by a wave a couple times. That crazy girl!

These are Malia's "flop flops". AND, this is how she puts them on... every time. On the wrong feet and in-between those little toes. She of course will never let me help nor correct her. OH- and I have to brag... she LOVES Bob Marley. She calls him "Mar Mar" and always requests redemption song. She will sit in front of the computer and listen to him over and over again and gets made when I turn it off. MY GIRL!

My Months MIA... the child birth

2010-02-10T15:44:00.001-08:00

Well, can you believe my baby is now 9 1/2 weeks old and I just finally feel ready to sit down and write about my birthing experience? If you had told me that when I was pregnant I would have been pretty shocked. After all, my experience before that point BCB (before child birth) was with adopted children. I knew it would be different, that it was an unknown, but truthfully, was not prepared for the ACB (after child birth).
I think I was so much in a pregnancy euphoria that I did not really prepare myself for what it might be like after it was all over. The end of my pregnancy was wonderful, I kept on waiting for the hard part that everyone told me you go through in the 3rd trimester, and it never came! I was loving it right up until the last day. I was not swollen, had a great amount of energy and was just enjoying that little guy moving inside me and anticipating a wonderful birthing experience (after all, that was something I NEVER thought I would have and I could not wait to go through it!).
First off, lets go through my birthing day, because that was AMAZING and I just have to share with all of you! I began to feel contractions around 5:00pm on the 2nd of December. If you remember, I had been dilated to a 2 and 80% effaced for a few weeks at that point. They were mild and about 10 min. apart, but consistent. We knew it was the beginning of it all, but wanted to go through as much of it as possible at home before we had to go to the hospital. We hung out, watched some TV, I took a shower, and we decided to try to go to sleep for a little while. Around 11pm we called Mike's Mom to come and watch the kids because my contractions were only about 5 min. apart and we figured we better just start the trek (the hospital was about 25 min. from our house).
Now, Mike and I were uber prepared. We had taken 6 weeks of birthing classes, learning the hypnobabies technique (LOVED every minute of those classes, as did Mike!). I had my ear buds in and was listening to my relaxation music on the car ride over. I must say that having contractions in the car, on the bumpy freeway, was not what I expected! I did not even think about that causing extra discomfort. Lets just say I was relieved when we arrived that I would not have to deal with a bumpy road from there on out!
They checked me and I was dilated to a 3 I think at that point and 90% effaced, and my contractions were 2-3 min. apart. They got us all set up in our room and Mike and I were so excited to see what experiences the next few hours would bring us. We went through our hypnobabies routine for the next 10 hours or so (through the night). My midwife came in and checked me at that point and informed us that my labor was not really progressing, my water was still intact, and that they might have to induce me. Needless to say, I was discouraged. I was exhausted (as was Mike! He was my little coach all night long!) and knew that with an induction would come more intense contractions (which were already really hard at this point!). Mike and I decided after much discussion that if I was to be induced, I wanted to first get an epidural. It was a tough choice, but the right one. We were so grateful for all of the education we were given before hand, to make good and informed decisions.
So, I got the epidural, and it was so great! Piece of cake from that moment on! I could feel all of the pressure, could walk and move my legs. At that point my labor then started to progress with no interference, which I was very grateful for. We were SO excited to meet our new little one soon!
My Mom was there at this point (and I am so glad she was! It was great to have her there to cheer me on along with Mike). My midwife came around noon I was ready to go! I began to push. There was some concern because he seemed to be stuck in the birth canal. They said they might have to use the vacuum to get him out. NO WAY! I was not going to have that. I harnessed every last bit of energy within me and was determined to get that baby out! A few more pushes later and he came flyin out! Mike says the midwife had to catch him! They had me push for about 40 min. total.
Now the best part! Uh, is it even possible to describe in words that feeling! The one where the lay that new, wet, chicken lookin baby against your chest. And your husband is looking at you, both of you just full to the brim with adrenaline and excitement! That moment when you look into each others eyes and, suddenly, you have more love for each other that you had only moments ago. A new kind of love, like, we did it! We made this little miracle, he is a piece of each of us. That feeling like this baby was JUST in the presence of our Heavenly Father, and now he is here with us. That all that we just went through bonded us to this new little one forever. That he is now part of our eternal family.
Am I grateful to have had that experience? You bet! I can't even express my gratitude for that gift. It completed me. It completed my family, my wants as a Mother. I KNOW what a blessing it is, even more so because I craved it for so long and did not get it, I had come to accept and be ok with the idea that it would never be something I would experience. And boy am I grateful for all of those years I had to endure that. Because it made it THAT MUCH BETTER! I could not have enjoyed or appreciated it like this if I had given birth when I wanted to. Only through God's plan for my family could I have experienced that much joy in child birth.
I say all of this in hopes that you have all read my deep love and gratitude that I have expressed over the past years, in regards to adopting my children as well. I could not have loved and appreciated the experience of having a young Mother HAND me those new, snugly wrapped, chicken looking little miracles, without knowing the pain of yearning to be a mother, and not having the opportunity to fulfill that on my own.
The biggest thing I learned through having a baby- To LOVE and appreciate even more what those young mothers handed over to me. The strength they had, in carrying, birthing, and giving their little ones over to a life they hoped would be better than what they could have provided. That they sacrificed all that and trusted in ME to take them and love them with all of my heart and give them everything. What an honor to be a Mother to adopted children. What an honor to know these young ladies, these angel Mothers. And what an honor to have given birth myself and have that experience open my eyes in so many ways. How many women get to have both of those worlds? I know I am lucky and I only hope you can see through my actions and words how grateful I am for these blessings of Motherhood.

My Months MIA... after the child birth

2010-02-10T15:44:00.000-08:00

Ha, that title sounds like show "the bachelor... after the rose" :) And really, that title kind of explains how I felt in the weeks after Eli arrived. The birth day had come and gone, the euphoria of pregnancy and child birth were over, and I was left to deal with a healing body in every way- mentally, physically, emotionally. No one had prepared me, somehow I overlooked that party. With all of the preparation I had done, I had a very skewed view of how it would be when the baby was actually HERE.
Now, lets remember, my experience up to that point had been with adopted children. I was skinny, fit, full of energy, could take on whatever was thrown at me. Don't get me wrong, there are very tough things that go along with adoption, and are very comparable emotionally, but for me this was harder because it was physical. With my personality, being "couch-ridden" for weeks on end was torturous.
Ok, prepare yourself for TMI (too much information). When Eli came out, as I mentioned previously, he was "stuck" for a while. This cause some "after effects" that I wont disgust you with the details of. The kid came out with his right arm and hand up by his face, ouch! Glad we decided on the epidural!
My body took the trauma of child birth pretty hard. I could feel my mind change suddenly. I was SO emotional. SO happy the first few days, and then, like a cloudy film came over my eyes and brain. Those crazy pregnancy hormones must have just left me suddenly and I was left with a brain that was struggling to get back to a normal balance. I was SO sad. I had never experienced anything like it before. I had no interest in ANYTHING. Not my children not the TV, not going outside. The sun even looked different to me. So, I was depressed, and "couch-ridden" for weeks. How did I get through it? Well, that brings me to my night in shining armor- my Husband. He stepped up to the plate would be an understatement. He was there for me and just took over. He said he could see in my eyes that I was different. He encouraged me when I would become hopeless, he would constantly tell me, "this will only be for a VERY short time, you can get through it." He got up with the baby EVERY night for the first 3 weeks (I was having insomnia and was exhausted even without having to take care of the baby). And then he would get a few hours of sleep in the morning and take over caring for all three of our children during the day. He was a dynamo. It is so amazing how, when one of you becomes weak, the other just miraculously becomes that much stronger to help keep the balance. I am so grateful for my relationship with my husband. I am so grateful for our partnership in raising our children and in life.
Through that experience we both grew, not only closer to each other, but closer to our Heavenly Father. I COULD NOT have gotten through this without Him (Heavenly Father). I prayed CONSTANTLY. There were times when I prayed and just asked him moment by moment, "What do I do next?" Just asking for guidance on how to get through the day. I would feel little promptings like- get dressed and go in the front yard for a bit. Stuff so small like that, isn't that amazing? Isn't it so wonderful how much He loves us? The last thing that helped me get through this was every time I looked at my new little baby. His shining face made me think to my self, "Isn't he worth it?" and I would think, "of course he is!" I would go through it a thousand more times to have this little guy in my family, as a son.
Well, at about 6 weeks the cloud lifted. It took about a week after that for it to be totally gone. And now I look back and am so grateful for that trial. Why? Because I appreciate my healthy mind in a way I never did before. I appreciate just everyday stuff, being alive, like I never could have without that lowest of low. I appreciate my Saviors sacrifice in the garden of Gethsemane and understand it so much more than before. That he HAD to go through all of the pains we could suffer in the world, so He could be there by our side through anything and say, "I understand what you are feeling." I appreciate my Husband more than I could have without the experience giving him a chance to take care of me and our family in a way I pray he will never have to again. And he did it! Better than I ever could have if the roles were reversed. (He has WAY more patience than me!)
So, I am back. Getting used to 3 kids and feeling like life is normal now. Thank you to all for your prayers. I could feel them ... if that makes sense, and know you all were a big part of helping me get through that as well.

Time to Bake!!

2010-02-10T10:25:00.000-08:00

Felt like baking the other day and then spent WAY too much time decorating... HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!

Eli's Baby Blessing, as promised

2010-01-07T09:09:00.000-08:00

I just finished typing up Eli's baby blessing and wanted to share it with all of our friends and family that were not able to make it. Read the post below if you are unsure what a baby blessing is. Reading this makes me so excited to watch Eli and all of my children to grow and to see what they acomplish and who they become in their lives. I feel so honored to be entrusted with this little ones and to guide them and love them.

Heavenly Father, We a few of thy sons holding the Melchezidek Priesthood come before thee to give this baby a name and a blessing. The name by which he shall be known here on the earth and upon the records of this church is Elijah Alexious Jones.

Elijah, you have come here to Earth from the presence of a loving Heavenly Father. And have been chosen to come here to fulfill a number of callings here on the Earth. And you have been blessed to have entered into a family under the covenant where the blessings of the temple are in your home. We want you to know how much you are loved by your Mother and Father and siblings and members of your extended family, and how much we welcome you. And we bless you that as you grow you will grow to love your family and understand your nature as a child of God and that you will love your Heavenly Father and strive to get to know him and to get to know his son and your savior Jesus Christ. That you will recognize his hand in your life as you go throughout your life and that you will make wise decisions and when the time is right you will decide to be baptized and also later in your life that you will partake of the other ordinances of the gospel.

We bless you Elijah with a light in your countenance. Which will show unto others the blessing that you have in your life as a result of living a righteous life and following the plan of your Savior. And as that light shows you will be presented with opportunities to share the gospel. And that you will do so with the spirit, which will help you bring souls unto Christ.

And Elijah you were also named in part because of your Mother’s passion for family history work and the work of the Temple. And we bless you to follow in her footsteps, that you might also have this passion and that you might seek out your ancestors and feel the joy as you have ordinances done for them in the temple. And we bless you as you partake yourself of the ordinances of the Temple that you will feel of your Heavenly Fathers love. That you will be able to serve an honorable full time mission. And upon your return you will be able to seek education that will benefit you and your family. And that someday you will find a loving woman who you will cherish and take to the temple to be sealed to you. That you will be able to start your own family, also under the covenant.

Elijah, yours is a blessed life and we bless you with all of these things and all of the things that Heavenly Father has in store for you and we say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Eli's Baby Blessing

2010-01-04T16:07:00.000-08:00

We had Eli's baby blessing this past Sunday and all I can say was that it was wonderful! An experience I will never forget. For those of you who are not of our faith, a baby blessing is done after your baby is born. His/her father and some other male family members and friends will gather in a circle around the baby and the Father will say a prayer/blessing. This is usually done at the beginning of a church meeting.
In it, he gives the baby a name and says whatever he feels prompted to say in regards to blessing the baby to have certain qualities and experiences in his/her life.
Mike has a special gift/talent for giving blessings and there was no exception at Eli's blessing yesterday. Tears came to my eyes as I listened to Mike bless Eli and touch on certain points in his life and what he wished for him to have and accomplish. It made me realize how short of a time we really do have here and how I should work everyday to do something important, to fulfill my role here on the earth.Not just keeping the house clean, but make sure I am helping someone in need, reading and learning more from the scriptures, praying, and being an example to my children. To give my family love and put others before myself. These are the things that really bring true joy to my life. It is funny to me that when you lose yourself in the service of others you really feel more joy than if you were just catering to yourself. My mind would argue with that fact, but the truth is our minds are not the most important things to go by.I think our hearts know and teach us much more. I think our motherly intuition, promptings from our Heavenly Father, they all seem to come straight from our chests, or at least they do for me. So I will follow that over having it make sense in my mind any day. Thanks for reading my rambling thoughts. I will post Eli's blessing on here after I get it typed up. For now enjoy the pictures from the weekend. And thank you to all who came, it means so much to us.

Cousins- Are these boys cute or what! Grandma Melinda- you have the cutest grand kids ever! ;)

Deacon and Malia

My favorite pic from the weekend. All the cousins with Gabe and Malia (well, some of the cousins). I look at this photo of these sweet beautiful kids and can't help but feel full of love for each of them. I am so lucky to have all of these kids in my life and in my family. They really are choice spirits and I get excited to think about all they will accomplish and how they will grow and just love that I get to be on the side lines watching and routing for them.

Christmas time at the Roberts and Jones homestead

2009-12-30T16:18:00.000-08:00

We had such a fun Christmas. Luckily I was feeling a bit better and we were all able to enjoy the gift giving and opening with all of our family.
It was so fun to have 2 kids that were into Christmas morning this year... Malia is quite the present opener... I wonder where she gets that from !?
And the greatest gift of all... having a healthy, happy, really great baby boy named Eli. ;)

MY REINDEER

A VERY RARE PHOTO OP OF MY DAD DOING.... THAT IS RIGHT.... DISHES!!!

THE CHRISTMAS EVE MAYHEM

GREAT GRANDPA TOM, AUNT MARTHA, AND UNCLE ANDY. GETTING READY TO OPEN THE GIFTS I MADE EVERYONE THIS YEAR. PERSONALIZED FAMILY HISTORY BOOKS! IT WAS WORTH ALL THE HARD WORK TO SEE HOW MUCH EVERYONE ENJOYED THEM.

THE HEADBAND SISTERS

MALIA WITH HER FAVORITE PERSON... PAPA

CHRISTMAS MORNING!! GABE GOT SOME NEW GOLF CLUBS AND AN AWESOME SKATE BOARD RAMP ( YOU CAN SEE IT BEHIND HIM)

MALIA AND ALL HER NEW BABY STUFF... CLASSIC PHOTO> THIS REALLY IS HOW MUCH SHE LOVES HER BABIES!

MALIA IN HER COOL NEW HAT AND GLASSES FROM THEIR NEW DOCTOR SET

ELI IN HIS "BOB" OUTFIT. GABE USED TO WEAR THIS TOO!

IRON MAN HELPING MOMMY MAKE PUMPKIN PANCAKES

THE GANG OVER AT THE JONES HOUSE ON CHRISTMAS MORNING

WHIT... DOING HER THANG

Getting to know our new little miracle

2009-12-30T15:49:00.000-08:00

I know I promised to write about my birthing expirience, but I am waiting to complete the "healing process" before I dig into writing everything. SO patience... that is what I have been telling myself too! Only 2 more weeks until I should be officially back to myself, and then I will write, I promise!
For now, here are some cute photos from an early morning with the kids while Mike slept in (he took on the night shift for the first 3 weeks! What a man, I must say. I could not get through this transition without him!). Enjoy ;)

Christmas Card out takes

2009-12-12T07:55:00.000-08:00

Here are some out takes from our little photo shoot for our Christmas cards. We are sending out less than normal this year, but for those of you who do not get one, I will post the final product here in a couple weeks. The photo we chose turned out so cute... worth the crazy 20 minutes and about 250 shots it took to get it!

In this first one-
Gabe trying to keep it together (he did not want to take a picture this day) and not cry so he could get his cookie afterward.
Malia thinking, "come on Gabe! Lets just take this picture already! How hard can it be!"
Eli thinking, "Hey, where did that bottle go!" (I had a window of about 30 seconds before he started crying for it, to take the pics)

Our little guy with his big blue eyes.

Malia was a big helper... trying to get Eli to take his hands off of his face. She surprises us sometimes with how obedient she is! You never know what you are going to get with this little girl. ;) But, I guess if there is a baby involved, she will do anything we ask. She LOVES this little guy!

This one almost took the cake but I did not love how Eli or Gabe looked.

Eli is here!

2009-12-06T14:24:00.000-08:00

Eli is here! I am still pretty tired, but wanted to put up a post of our little guys first picture and let you all know that it was the most amazing experience ever to birth this child! It was magical and wonderful and I can't wait to write a more detailed post, but for now, here is his photo. More to come soon! Thanks to all for your prayers and support through this little miracle pregnancy. Now we can all enjoy the blessed little boy it has brought into ours and our family and friends lives. Can't wait for you all to meet him!

GUESS WHAT!! ?? ~

2009-12-03T10:58:00.000-08:00

To find out, watch this video ;)

MOVIE NIGHT!!

2009-11-27T16:23:00.000-08:00

Ok, first off no, baby has not come yet. Yes, I am HUGE, but still doing great, just tired a lot. And yes, I am so ready to meet this little guy. Not to mention the cookies I made to give the hospital staff upon our arrival, that I placed in the freezer, are now almost gone. Might need to make another batch before the little one decides to come! ;)
Here are some photos from a fun movie night we had at our place with the kiddos.

All my PREGO friends out there!!

2009-11-23T14:39:00.000-08:00

This is my parting gift as a fellow pregnant Mom ;) Any day now I will no long be able to share in the joys of being pregnant with ya... it is a bitter sweet thing for me to think about. But, we are of course excited to meet little Eli!

SO.... as my parting gift and words of advice, check out this site! They have some SUPER cute maternity tops at really great prices, plus some killer deals and such coming up this week! ;)

www.milanmaternity.com

Here is what they have going on this week:

On Wednesday, www.GiveAwayToday.blogspot.com will be hosting a giveaway for us and one lucky winner will be awarded a $75 gift card to spend at Milan Maternity! Be sure to visit their site on Wednesday and comment to enter.

Finally, the great news; we'll be having a Black Friday sale beginning Friday, (obviously) going through Sunday. Use coupon code "BLKFRIDAY" to get 20% off your entire order. Also, be one of the first 50 people to order on Friday and recieve a FREE GIFT in your order! The best thing about this sale? You don't have to wake up crazy early, stand in long lines, or even get out of your PJ's if you don't want to.

P.S. Want to hear a secret? Our Black Friday 20% off also applies to gift cards...so maybe you could forward this on to your Mom or hubby, and give them a little hint (wink wink) at what you want for Christmas this year and save them some money at the same time!

Order your Christmas Cards today!!

2009-11-17T15:22:00.000-08:00

We just got some awesome new Christmas card designs at Rebecca Roberts Photography! Here are just a few shown below. Place your order soon to beat the holiday rush! You can use a photograph we have taken for you, or one of your own.

We also do custom Christmas card designs if you have something specific in mind. The cost for a custom design is $50. Please contact us with any questions and Happy Holidays! becky@rrphotosite.com

Pricing: (Price includes printed cards (photos printed on cards) and envelopes, 1 set is 25 cards)

1 set: $45.00

2-5 sets: $40.00

6-20 sets: $35.00

BABIES

2009-11-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

I am in a baby mood... obviously. ;) Baby Eli is starting to move down (I can breathe now!) and I am starting to get some pre-birthing waves (light contractions). It all shows me that my body is preparing for the big day!

This is a bitter sweet time for me. This experience has been indescribable, amazing, a true miracle. I feel SO blessed to have experienced carrying a child. I am proud of myself for focusing on all of the positive in this and embracing how my body has changed. I have SO ENJOYED IT!! Isn't it amazing that your body just knows exactly what to do to care for this little life inside? I have been also blessed to have a pretty pleasant pregnancy, I know not all women do. I am SO excited for my birthing day, but at the same time I get emotional to know I soon will no longer be pregnant. I have so enjoyed having this little life grow inside of me.

We are pretty sure this will be our only experience being pregnant (it was a miracle after all). We feel complete as a family and I still am shocked by what life has thrown at me! Pregnant at 30 was never in my life plan ;) I always wanted to be a young mother, but Heavenly Father had a different plan for us! What a journey it has been creating our family. I look back and can now see how it was all worth it, that God had a plan for us that was better than I could have come up with... even with the ups and downs.

I also cannot describe how blessed I feel to have two Heaven sent, beautiful inside and out, adopted children. They ARE my children... forever. They are no different than this baby that I have carried. I LOVE that I have been able to experience bringing 2 children into our home also in such a unique and miraculous way. There is NO doubt in my mind that the Lord's hand guided all of us involved in having Malia and Gabe join our family. And... that he had one more special little guy waiting for us in Heaven... to be presented to us after our trials and blessings of adoption.

That said, I am SO excited for my birthing day! A day when it can be just me and Mike, that we can finally experience the birth of one of our children, that we get to be selfish this time ;) and have it be all about us! ;) I can't wait to meet Elijah, and to have all of our friends and family smother him with love and kisses as well. To be so secure that he is ours and there is no waiting period or worrying that someone could take him from us. Basically... I just wanted to share that I KNOW we are SO lucky, blessed and most of all how grateful I am for all of my babies.

the return of ... H-A-L-L-O-W-E-E-N!!

2009-11-03T15:17:00.000-08:00

Staring....

Malia as "Dorothy!"

Mrs. Jones as "Pumpkin Belly"

And Gabe as "Spiderman!"

Gabe Jones action shots as Black Spiderman!"

The group shots

Mr. Jones as.. "The dog walker"

Kujo Jones as... "The albino red eyed bat!!"

Opening weekend profits!!

CREDITS:
COSTUME DESIGN: Malia's dress made by Grammy Laurie, Gabe's costume picked out by Gabe and purchased by Grammy Laurie.

HAIR DESIGN: Mrs. Jones

TRICK OR TREATING ENTOURAGE: Auntie Whitney and Grandma Melinda.

Submit YOUR reviews below (uhh ummm... the comments section ;) )

So domestic!!

2009-10-19T17:03:00.000-07:00

Gabe and Malia (Gabe's little copy cat lately, they both walked around all day today with a band aide on their faces in the same exact place.. Gabe had a boo boo... Malia didn't) have been WAY into baking. They love putting on their aprons and helping Mommy make yummy treats. And I love that it is finally cooled down enough outside to turn the oven on! Here are my munchkins baking cookies!!

Waiting and watching the cookies change...

Malia can hardly control her excitement as the time draws near to take out our yummy cookies!!

Then she ran up to me with a big excited face... shown above... sound effect " HuuuuuuU!!!!!"

Gabe describing to us how the cookies are changing as they bake...

Lizzard tounge... kinda gross.

And of course then Malia wanted a picture in front of the oven just like Gabe...

And then Gabe wanted one with both of them in it...

And finally... what I walked out of the bathroom to find. A claw footed little boy walking around in my oven mitts. It was pretty funny! And the cookies were SOOOO yummy!!

Painting a bird house

2009-10-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

My brain is fried. I have been waiting to post some photos of our recent activities until I felt like writing something witty... it has yet to come. My pregnancy brain has taken over... so here is Gabe and Mommies birdhouse. We did this little project while Malia was sleeping one day. Gabe loved it! And would get so upset if his paintbrush accidentally landed on a spot of the bird house he was not aiming for. My little perfectionist... enjoy!

Baby Shower Tea

2009-10-05T16:07:00.000-07:00

My Mom, BFF Betsy and Mother-in-law, Melinda,and sista Michelle, helped throw me a little baby shower tea party this last weekend. It was pretty neat to get to actually be pregnant this time around! (minus the less flattering extra round face and booty photos that go with that!;))
And Can I just tell you how amazing my Mom is! This tea party was just beyond my expectations and we all had so much fun drinking tea and eating little sandwiches and yummy treats. Thanks Mom and Melinda and Michelle for all of the yummy food! Betsy (BFF) was working on making it out from Utah but a little surprise miracle of her own prevented her from attending. Still love you Bets and I think you had the best excuse ever for not making it... so no worries!

The Cooks in the Kitchen- Grammy Laurie and Great-Grandma Helen

Another one of our cooks- Grandma Melinda

The Tea Party Menu

Ok, try not to drool!!

My Mom's cute table settings. I am telling you this lady went all out!

In the midst of Tea... me and Brittany A.

Party games! Grammy had some great prizes for the winners.

Shower Favors... mmmmm, root beer and berry jelly beans and dark chocolate

Attention to detail! Cute personalized water bottles for each guest.

I love what my Mom put on the "ingredients" SO creative!

Present time! We all know how much I love that part! ;)

A Party crasher cruising through the crowd.

The SiStAs!!

AND drum roll please.... the all too classic must have funny pregnancy photos!!

Eli's future spoiling Grandma's and babysitters ...

Thanks again Mommy!! YOU are so amazing. Love you!

Eli's Room!!

2009-09-28T18:35:00.000-07:00

Hi all! After months of preparation (moving Malia out, painting walls, collecting decor on a budget, and "planning") the baby's room is pretty much ready to go!
Mike sat on the rocking chair today and said, "I am ready to rock a little baby in here now!" We are so excited to welcome this
little bundle into our hearts and family in a couple of months. And I am so excited to have this cute little room all ready for him!

We decided to do a kind of mod looking transportation/vintage toy room theme. All of the old toys are from my Grandma Ruth's house, most were my Dad's.

I could not figure out how to incorporate his name into the room/theme, and then came up with the idea of making letters out of my old tinker toys. It was easy since all the letters involved straight lines!
And this bedding was such a great deal! I found it for a steal online and then saw it in a magazine for like 3 times the price. I felt so thrifty... which if you know me, is not always the case ;)

I was lucky enough to sell Malia's old pottery barn rug for quite a bit of money (I guess it was in high demand because they stopped making it) and used the money to buy this cute rug to match the new room. The rug is from a company called flor. You get to pick out your colors and design your rug and then they send you squares that you just paste together... wa la!

I also was having a hard time finding wall art that I liked, and matched the theme/color scheme. I decided to design the art work myself in photoshop and had my photo lab print my work on canvas stretcher frame. I must say I was quite proud of my design skills ;)
And speaking of skills... Mr. Jones painted these walls for an entire week and I must say he did an awesome job!

Here is our little rocker that we have had since Gabe was a babe, renovated back to its origional boyish condition (ie- pink fabric removed). My friend Wendy S. gave me that cute sling to cart the new little guy around and I just love it! Can't wait to use it.

This was quite the find if I do say so myself. A little car mobile that looks so cool spinning around when the fan is on. Mike and I were mesmerized. It is so euro and I love it!

This is about the only part of the room that I still need to complete. We plan on putting up a little wall shelf here and displaying some retro die cast cars on it.
And that is that! Hope you enjoyed the tour of our nursery and hope you can stop by and see it in person soon ;)

Baby bump update

2009-09-22T07:17:00.000-07:00

So I am now 7 1/2 months along and still feeling great! Getting a little pooped out more easily but feeling awesome. I actually am surprised by how much energy I do have. Mike and I just laugh at all of the weird stuff happening to by body, and I am just trying to enjoy the changes (like swollen knees, so weird). I feel grateful for every part of this experience, after all, we never thought we would be able to have it!   This whole thing seems to have just flown by. I can't believe I am due so soon! 

We just finished putting the babies room together, but I still have a few final touches to do before I post photos... so be patient, they will come! ;) 

YAWN.. TIRED!!

2009-09-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

Ok, sorry to have to vent like this, but I am SO tired!!
Mike and I have been up at night (at least twice a night) this entire week! And that is hard on this big pregnant body ;)
Here is the deal: Malia will get out of her little bed, every night, in the middle of the night, and run or on occasion walk, down the hall to the living room. SHE IS TOTALLY OUT OF IT, and confused. BUT, the fact of the matter is she wakes up and does not know what to do with her new found freedom. Since I am the lucky light sleeper in this house, I get up, put her in her bed, rub her tummy (not easy... remember big prego body... tiny little toddler bed way down on the floor) and put her back to sleep.
Then, WITHOUT FAIL, Gabe will pee through his pull up (no mater WHAT we do to prevent it). Then we both get up, I comfort Malia, Mike changes Gabe and the bed, and we attempt to put them back to sleep.
Whew!! Needless to say I just ordered a LOAD of "night time" pull-ups online. I am crossing my fingers this is all he needs... "more absorbency!" I have to be up all night in like 2 months!! Come on... PLEASE let this work!
OH AND P.S.- If you have kids, I have a great website for you!!
www.diapers.com
It has it all, and if you enter the code BECK8211 at check out, you can get $10 off and free shipping on your first order (you have to spend $49 I think, so load up!)

A Skate Park kinda Day

2009-09-14T16:32:00.000-07:00

The ARIZONA Jones clan was in town a few weeks ago and while here we had a little skate sesh at our local skate park. Here are some fun pics and video from our family morning. Gabe LOVED skating with his cousins. We even had the whole place to ourselves for a few minutes!

Cousin Bryson showing off his moves

All the kids (and Mike and Auntie Chelsea) cruzin around the park

Gabe and Bryce

Deacon had fun just doing some "extreme walking" ;)

Bryson, taking a break

Mike's board

Malia wanted to join the fun!!

Gabe and Daddy, planning their next move

Weston ripping it up on the razor

The on-lookers (Uncle Corbin and Auntie Chelsea)

Weston looking cool

Bryson in the bowl on the razor

Malia cleaning up... guess it was time to go!!

We OF COURSE finished up the morning with some donuts and pink milk ;) Thanks for the fun time guys!!

D-land, LAST TAKE- For a while anyway

2009-09-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

It was a bitter sweet day... September 1st 2009. The LAST day our Disneyland passes were good for the year. Even though we were having record breaking heat for So. Cal., and I am 7 months pregers, we decided to just go ahead and do it! Who knows when we will be able to get passes again and feel like taking THREE kids to Disneyland ;) So, we packed up the car and headed to the happiest place on earth.
We totally snuck Gabe in (he is 3 and "technically" should have his own ticket, but we thought one last time could not hurt. Are we totally bad???) Anyway, it was a blast! We spent some time in the air conditioned stores but the heat was really not that bad! We just took it slow and had fun. The kids got SOAKED half way through the day so that helped a ton too. Here are some photos and a fun video from the day. Oh and P.S.- I made it all the way to fireworks at 9:15 at night! Swollen and tired, but I was proud of myself ;) And Boo hoo... I am going to miss that place this holiday season :(

Yoga Surfer Dude

2009-09-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

The post below this is ALL about Malia, so OF COURSE I had to put one up about our Gabers as well.
Here is what he has been into:
1. He LOVES to SURF ( you all knew that though)
2. He LOVES to go to the skate park and skateboard with his Daddy and get donuts and pink milk afterward.
3. His favorite meal is still BURRITOS.
4. He is a movie quote kinda guy. He throws out a movie quote at least once a day. Most are from Nacho Libre (Have not seen it? RENT IT NOW!) Like... "I get to sleep by myself my whole life!" Or another favorite, from Surf's up... "You could fit a whole fish in there!" (said after Mommy tells Gabe his hair is out of control that day)
5. He still has HUGE feet that keep on growin'... 3 1/2 years old and in a size 10 1/2- 11 kids size!
6. He LOVES to do YOGA!! And as a special treat today, I have posted a little video of him doing just that. Enjoy and don't forget to scroll down and check out the all about Malia post next ;)>>>>>>>

All About Malia

2009-09-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

So I have not given an update about our little Pink Monster in a while. She is now 18 months old... or 1 1/2 years. My how time flies! So what can I tell you about our little Miss? Hmmm.... lets just say she gives us all a run for our money! ... and we LOVE it! ;) We now know that our suspicions of earlier are true... this one is going to make us LAUGH like crazy, keep us on our toes, and WEAR US OUT!
Ok, let me give you some visuals so you can get up to date on her personality and likes.

1. SHE IS A GIRL ON THE GO!- She loves to LEAVE- give everyone kisses and wave her hand behind her as she jets out the door screaming at the top of her lungs, " BYE!"
First off, you must study this photograph to really capture every detail of Malia's "on the go" outfit. One might think I set this up, but I assure you this is ALL Malia. She came walking out of her room like this 4 minutes after I yelled "ok guys, time to go!" EVERY TIME we go ANYWHERE that white purse (naked baby inside by the way) is in tow (often she will bring two purses along). This happened to be a special day where she just felt like dressing up for a play date with Grandma Melinda, but this photo shows her "girly" side perfectly.

2. Malia LOVES to wear a bikini (I am a bikini girl myself so I actually love this about her!:)) She also LOVES to wear her brother's baseball hats (and often his sun glasses as well!) I think this photo really shows you how well rounded she is. She is girly , yes, but she is also a little tom boy too! (OH, and she is obsessed with belly buttons. She likes to stick her fingers in them and say, "OOOO, ouch!"

3. She is SUCH a KLUTZ!
Malia is CONSTANTLY ( I mean since she started moving around) "eating it" as we like to put it (meaning falling down ;) ). The nice thing is she never really complains unless it's a doosy.
Yes, her brother sometimes hits her (although he is really not doing that much anymore), but most of the time it is self induced. Like this time for example: Malia was just walking, tripped over her own foot, and well full throttle, face first, into the edge of the back door. (she cried this time of course, it looked pretty painful!)
You can see the red line down the middle of her face and her little schnoz and forehead are all swollen.

So all that said, you are now officially up to date on Malia Jones. Your welcome ;)

Graff Seniors

2009-09-11T16:20:00.000-07:00

You cannot get any cuter than the Graff girls! I have done a wedding, family portraits a senior portrait, and now another senior portrait for their youngest daughter, so I should know! ;)
And talk about on top of it! Mom made sure to book this photo shoot early so she can have all of these photos ready to go for the graduation announcements at the end of this school year. Here is a sneak peak of our fun sitting.

The Johnson Kids

2009-09-11T16:03:00.001-07:00

Here is a little sneak peak of the newest addition to the Johnson family and the brother and sister that love her!

NEW CHRISTMAS CARDS ARE HERE!!

2009-09-11T07:50:00.000-07:00

Click the link below to go to our online Christmas card store to check them out:

REBECCA ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY ONLINE CHRISTMAS CARD STORE

We have got some great additions to our already beautiful Christmas card collection. From Businsess Christmas cards to family photo cards, you should be able to find the perfect one to send to your friends and family this holiday season.
Call us now to book your photo sitting! Or you can always send us your own digital image for your card.
Rebecca Roberts Photography- 949-683-0268

SMILE!!

2009-09-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

Need a pick-me-up? Well even if you don't, I have posted one for ya!
I LOVE this short film and just had to share it with you all! It makes me excited to be a photographer, to be in love, and to be happy in life! Take the time to watch it... you wont be disappointed! I promise. Have a beautiful day.

Any Suggestions??

2009-09-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

So Malia has fallen out of her toddler bed EVERY night since we put her in it. It does not seems to bother her much, but I just feel so bad! I have gotten up in the middle of the night every night to check on her and sure enough she is laying on the cold hard floor fast asleep.
I know I can put pillows down, but I prefer doing something to help her to stay in the bed. Anyone else had this problem? Suggestions please!!

Wedding: Carly + Carson

2009-09-03T11:34:00.001-07:00

My latest wedding... and last one for a few months. Now that I am in the third trimester of my pregnancy I will not be photographing anymore weddings through at least December. Not to worry though! I will continue to do family, child, and senior portraits through fall.
If you plan on booking a photo session for a Christmas card portrait please contact me soon as my schedule is filling up fast.

UPDATE: Sleeping in her new bed

2009-09-01T07:46:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know you have ALL been DYING to hear how the toddler bed/sharing a room with Gabe thing is going. Surprisingly... pretty good so far!!
NIGHT 1: We sang songs, said prayers and tucked in the kiddos. I kept waiting on the couch for little foot steps down the hall but they never came! Malia and Gabe stayed in their beds and after just a few minutes of some whispering (on Gabe's part, helps that Malia can't really talk yet!) they were down for the count! Then disaster struck. Around 4am Gabe woke us up screaming. Then came crying from Malia's corner. Gabe had leaked out of his pull=up diaper. GREAT! What a perfect night for that to happen! So Mike and I were in there for a good 20 minutes soothing both kids back to sleep. Malia cried a little when we left, but again never got out of bed. She came stomping into our room the next morning with a big smile on her face. Success!!
NIGHT 2: Ok, so last night might not count because we were at Disneyland until like 9pm so the kids were OUT! We transferred both from car to bed without a peep. In the middle of the night I heard a thump on the ground so went in to check it out. Malia had fallen out of her little bed. She was fine (my tough girl). Her exact words were, "Sshhhh, Ouch!" I put her back in bed and she crashed once more. That was it ! Gabe woke her up at 6:10 this morning so both kids are up and in full force right now.
The only negative so far is that they both have gotten up early both days. But I am not complaining! (Mostly because Mike has gotten up with them! :) ) I am just so proud of my big 18 month old girl for dealing with the transition so well thus far, yeah Malia! Lets hope for more success over the coming days. And then to deal with nap time! She is still in the crib for that...

CANADA- Take EIGHT- And that is that! Last post

2009-08-31T11:39:00.000-07:00

Ok, for those of you who are sick of Canada, no worries. This is my last post. I had to make it good so of course it is of my little lovers, Gabe and Malia. Enjoy!!

My favorite little band aide/ chip crumb face boy!

Sweet Malia by the barn.

Malia and Cousin Hannah

This is just to show you how stylin my little boy was in his tight hurley jeans and pumas. So cute!

A classic boy moment. This tomboy-at-heart Mommy just melts looking at photos like this. Who knew that throwing toys and running after them could be so much fun!

Alas... it is time to return to the good old US of A. Gabe takes a quick stop at the magazine rack to catch up on some cartoons while we wait for one of our MANY flights. Thanks for all the memories Canada family! We miss you!

CANADA- Take SEVEN- The River

2009-08-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

Our last day in Canada we had a little picnic down by the river, not too far away from the farm. It was beautiful and everyone had so much fun playing... even me! Check it out...

Mike and the kidos checking out the river

Look at that little smooshie face! I want to go wake her up from her nap right now just so I can smoosh and kiss it!

The picnic site

" Oh no! I am naked and full of mud!"

"OH wait a minute! I did that on purpose and am LOVIN IT!"

Gabe wanted to get in on the mud action too. They say it IS good for your skin you know.

Everyone in the river.

And yes, that is my muddy pregnant belly at 6 months along.

I did not think too hard before hand about how I would get it off of me without getting my pants all wet... oh well, it was worth the photo!

CANADA- Take SIX- A shmorgishborg

2009-08-31T11:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, just a few more Canada posts guys and girls, bear with me. Here are the portraits I took at the family reunion, and some more photos from that day. Enjoy!

This is Willi's whole family. My Mom, Laurie's, birth mother, her half brother and his kids and all of us. Minus my Dad and my little sister who is not allowed in Canada... that's for you Jen. ;)

The whole family- All of the Vanderleest family and their children and grand children.

The Vanderleest siblings.

Malia with Uncle Lance. All the little kids love Uncle Lance. I think it is the beard and stash.

Auntie Petra and her boys. The Smithinski family.

David and Peck- We stayed on their farm while visiting. They live right next to Petra's farm.

Mr. Jones and yours truley with the baby bump in full action.

The Smithinski Family...

And here they are showing their TRUE colors ;)

Petra on David's horse.

And me on the horse... I know I know, I am not supposed to be on a horse while pregnant but I was really careful and just walked him around.

Niece Hannah and the other Becky petting the horses.

Niece Allie with Hannah and Gabe on the swing set at the farm.

What is going through her mind at this particular moment you ask? "Don't get between this girl and her quad... or else!"

Ready to go!!

Ok, classic shot, probably NEVER to be duplicated! Who is that you ask, riding on the back of that quad with NO HELMET ON!?

Yeah, that is Nurse Roberts (aka Grammy). Here she is giving the look of, "Oh no! I got caught!"

Yeah you better put that helmet on (that is 3 sizes too small for you I might add)!! You are in SO much trouble!!

TIME : 10:30pm... Still bright as can be outside. Having a little bon fire on the farm.

Malia with the "big girls". She could not get enough of this girly brigade.

What else can I say but ... REPRESENT!!

And finally at about 11:00pm the sun went down so we could get going on some marshmallow roasting.. yummy!

CANADA- Take FIVE- A Celebration

2009-08-31T10:55:00.000-07:00

50 years, can you imagine? Grandma Willi's sister Cathy and her sweet husband Tony celebrated their 5oth wedding anniversary while we were all in Canada. The way they reacted to their surprise cake that their granddaughter made for them, was so priceless. It made me reflect on how grateful I am for my eternal sweetheart and how much I look forward to the next 45 years with him... and beyond.
Watching these two get all choked up as they stare at the old wedding photo of them on the cake really shows you how fast time flies. How much a couple can go through in 50 years and how much your love for each other can grow. I guess it is this excitement of the unknown, the awe of being companions with someone for 50 years of your life, that makes me all gitty inside for what my future holds with my sweet Mr. Jones.

CANADA- Take FOUR- Photos of the Farm

2009-08-31T10:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos I took of different things around the farm. It felt good to get some creative shots in to feed my artistic side.

The RED gate leading into Petra's farm

The road between Dave and Petra's farms

Yes, that is correct. This horse is smiling and sticking out her tongue at me. HE-larious.

While the kids are away...

2009-08-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

My sweet Mr. Jones took care of the kidos yesterday so I could get some SERIOUS sewing done. We desperately needed to get Malia going on the whole toddler bed thing and all that we were waiting on was for this Mrs. Jones to make her bedding. I am one determined lady let me tell you!
I needed to incorporate some of the colors already in Gabers room, (she will be sharing with him to make room in the nursery for the baby) but wanted it to be more girly for my little girl. This is what I came up with! Don't look too closely. This is my first rag quilt and I did finish the whole thing (including the sheets and pillow case mind you!) in one day. Ahhh, feels good. One more thing to check off on the list. Now.... on to getting her to sleep in it! Wish me luck!

(sorry for the bad coloring on the pictures. I don't have the time or energy to edit them right now, but you still get the idea!)

And this is how I found Malia when I got out of the shower this morning. Daddy had gotten her all ready for church and she decided to spend the free time reading on her new bed. Good sign I hope! Maybe this means the transition to bed will be easy??? PLEASE... let it be a sign! ;)

Latest Photo Shoot

2009-08-26T15:52:00.001-07:00

These cuties were in town from Mississippi and it was so nice to get to photograph their little faces again. I have been doing their family photography since Mommy and Daddy's wedding and have enjoyed every sitting we have. They are just such sweet cute kids and I can't get enough of them!

`

Little Surfer Dude

2009-08-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

As promised!

Last Wednesday night as we were going through our nigh-nigh routine, Gabe posed a question. "Mommy, if it low tide tomorrow can I go surfing on Daddy's big board?" (Heart melting Mommy replies) "Sure honey!"
Gabe and Daddy must have talked about it earlier that day because upon awakening Thursday morning I caught Mr. Jones checking the surf report. It was low tide at 7:30am, so we packed up the fam and headed to DoHo beach.
Now some of you facebookers may recall Uncle Darren posing the question, " Are there any waves?"
And my reply- "There are ALWAYS waves when you only weigh 30 lbs. and have a 9ft. surfboard!"

Until later surfer dudes!!

WOOO HOOOO!!

2009-08-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

We had a little evening at the beach today.... and guess what!? Gabe surfed!! I was jumping around like a cheerleader on the beach. He rode a few on his stomach with Daddy and by himself at first, and then asked if he could go out again and try standing up. Of course Daddy said sure. Daddy pushed him into a wave and he just popped right up and rode it all the way in!! I am telling you the cutest thing ever!! He did it twice more before coming in. You should have seen the smile on this kids face... he was totally "stoked".
Of course I had no idea that such a mile stone would occur this evening so I sadly had no camera :( You can all imagine how much I was kicking myself, but I promise next time I have a post like this there will be pictures for all to enjoy!! YEAH GABE!!

Canada- Take THREE

2009-08-02T15:32:00.000-07:00

The Vanderleest Family Reunion, Drayton Valley, Alberta Canada- PART I

This was the reason for the trip. Every summer Mrs. Jones' Mother's Birth Mother's Family (take a minute and read that again... ok, got it? ;) ) has a family reunion in Drayton Valley.
My Mother's birth Mother's (hereafter referred to by name, "Willi") parents migrated from Holland to Drayton valley with their children sometime after the war. Most of the children still live in the area with their families and so they have a big family reunion every year in Drayton Valley.
Kind of fun for us since Mrs. Jones' side of the family is small and has never really had need for a full blown family reunion (Mr. Jones on the other hand is a different story). It is always so neat to get to know these wonderful people better each year.
As an ADOPTIVE Mother myself, I hold a special place in my heart for my Mother's birth family. And likewise as a daughter of an ADOPTED Mother. The wisdom I have learned meeting these people is that family is never ending and comes to us in so many ways- through blood, adoption, and bottom line LOVE. Family is a never ending circle of people that share and show love for one another. I am so grateful for my everlasting and eternally growing family.

The barn (on Willi's sister, Petra's, farm) was the location of the reunion this year. We also got to stay close by so it was nice and easy for us to just walk on over.

Mrs. Jones' Mother, Laurie, visiting with her nephews.

The swing set saw a lot of action this weekend... Malia was ALL OVER the farm. She felt quite secure and comfortable there. It was not unknown for her to randomly be found over by the cows or the horses. Mommy and Daddy had to keep a close eye on her, but she was of course loving it.

The beautiful Grammy Laurie and Malia.

Don't you wish you could hear what they were saying? Something funny! This is Auntie Michelle, Mrs. Jones' sister, and Willi.

Ok, so you remember those little parachuting army men that you used to get off the icecream truck? Or maybe from a toy store? Well, they are still around but are now bigger and better. This is Gabe throwing up his Parachuting Diego toy.
I had to get this sequence because it was just such a great example to me of pure childhood joy. And I remember a long time ago sitting on the curb in front of our house in LA throwing up my own little green parachute man and blowing those little plastic bubbles out of those little plastic colorful straws. Remember those!? So fun... and I could see that same feeling I remembered, in Gabe's face, as he was in his own little world trying to throw Diego higher and higher.

That's the joy I was talking about! Right there on my precious little boy's face.

A photo of Willi's older sister and her husband. We met them for the first time at the reunion this year. They are wonderful people and just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. More photos to come in the next post.

Mike chatting with Nicki. You DO want to be a part of this conversation. Her and her husband have traveled all over the world and always have the neatest stories to tell.

Some family checking out the horses.

Sister gossip...

Willi and her husband Jackson with Malia. Can you see the resemblance between her and my Mom?

Mike enjoying a conversation with James and other family.

The weather is always a surprise in Alberta. It was super HOT most of the time we were there (pleasantly hot though). We were all dressed for the summer weather on the day of the reunion.
Suddenly around mid afternoon the dark clouds came rolling in and the rain started. It was still a warm rain but was coming down pretty hard.
All of a sudden the hail started. And this was no ordinary hail this was CANADIAN hail!! It was HUGE, the biggest hail I had ever seen. Quite a site. Mr. Jones once lived in Texas so he was not so impressed, I guess it is true that everything is bigger in Texas... even the hail.
Anyway, Grammy Laurie and Auntie Petra decided to put all better judgment aside and go OUT in the hail and throw the large ice down each others shirts! Crazy ladies!

Here is a sampling of the different sizes we found.

This one could have hurt someone!

At the end of the hail storm, this is who I caught running back to the barn from the porta potty. That is right, let me set the scene for you.... Gabe had to go to the bathroom. Remember, he is 3 and still fairly new to the bathroom scene. Now most of us avoid using the porta potty even as adults, but Gabe braved it and headed over to the porta potty with Daddy. After a little coaxing, Mr. Jones got Gabe up on the seat to do his business.
Bring on the golf ball hail storm...
Gabe- "Oh no! What is that Daddy?"
Daddy- (peaking out of the porta potty door) "It's hailing!"
(plump plump, bang bang, clink clink)
Meanwhile Gabe bravely continues his business as they "weather the storm"
As soon as it lightened up they B lined it for the barn.... and that brings us once again to this now classic photo.

When the hail lightened up, it also brought another surprise from the direction of the porta potties. A double rainbow!! The weather might be unexpected and crazy up there but it sure does bring some beautiful skies and scenery, and unexpected fun as well!

A bad day just got a LOT better...

2009-07-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

So I have had a pretty crumby past two days... don't ask. You really don't want me to get into it. BUT, a miracle just happend and I have a smile from ear to ear right now. Are you ready.... Ok-

THEY JUST RE-OPENED STUFFED PIZZA IN SAN CLEMENTE!!!

Not so exciting for those that don't live here, in fact, you are bummed because it is the BEST pizza ever. It broke my heart when it changed to San Clemente Pizza Co. a few years ago (was good pizza, but did not compare). The closest one was in Dana Point and would not deliver all the way out here.

For those of you that live here, you better be jumping for joy right about now and planning your next stuft pizza night! YIPPEE!!!

A tip for your first order: LOVE their Hawaiian and LOVE their antipasto salad. Enjoy!!

Canada= Take TWO

2009-07-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

First day in Drayton Valley- They had the kids at "we got a rock wall water slide." It was a beautiful day to play outside.

Malia and Gabe climbing into the pool. I did not know Malia could climb a ladder... should have figured. She just climbed right up. Daddy has lost a few hairs since this little Mrs. came along!

And here is Mrs. Jones with an updated baby bump photo, 21 weeks or 5 months along.

A close up of our ladder climber.

Say cheese Hannah and Allie! Oh wait, you guys don't look so happy. Maybe it is because they were in time out. Bummer...

All the girls doting over Gabe in the pool. Get used to it Gabe, I don't think that will be ending anytime soon. You are our little "ladies Man" ;)

The kids on the water slide having a blast. Lets count them...

ONE - Allie showing off her backwards sliding skills.

TWO- Gabe enjoying the WARM water coming out of the sprinkler. That is right, they had this puppy hooked up to their warm and cold water and made the temperature just right.

THREE- Bryn's turn. Don't ask what her "official" title is... second cousin, third cousin, second cousin once removed. No one could agree, it was the subject of many conversations. No one could figure it out. :)

And lets finish it off for today with how I found Malia that day during nap time. We put her down and I went in to check on her a few minutes later. She somehow was able to reach my diaper bag and pull out all of the contents before crashing on her newly made "crib clutter". Ahh, gotta love this little mischievous lady. She keeps us on our toes.

Canada- Take ONE

2009-07-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

Whew! What a fun trip! We just returned from a little family vacation to Alberta, Canada. After a few days for R&R and unpacking and a beach day thrown in there, I am ready to edit and post all of the fun photos I took while on our trip!
BUT... I know some of you might get a little overwhelmed with too much visual stimulation thrown at you all at once. SO... I will just do a little at a time and fill you in on all our exciting adventures in the land of the Mounties. ;)

Plane ride #1- Out of LAX, bright and stinkin early!! Gabe was SO So SOOOO excited to ride on a plane... 4 planes to be exact (2 there and 2 home). Mr. and Mrs. Jones did their best to prepare for the long days of driving, flying, landing, transferring, going through customs, WALKING, waiting, flying again, landing again, then driving some more. All with our two little angel children, yeah right! ;)

Malia did OK on the plane. By OK I mean I don't think too many people were disturbed besides us. ;)

Landed in Calgary, Hannah and Allie took a quick stop for a little "flip flop" shoe shine by Gabe.

Back up to the skies. Gabe passed out before we even left the ground... Malia was soon to follow. Finally, a little break and time to enjoy the views from the sky.

Auntie and Allie having a little treat on the plane.

Sleeping beauty with her Mr. Jones.

And YES.... This was our connector flight!! Auntie Michelle almost had a cow when she saw what we would be flying in. I thought it was kind of fun. Here is Grammy and Hannah getting off the plane in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Then hopped in the trucks and another 1 1/2 hour drive to Draton Valley... land of oil! That is where Grammy's birth family reunion would be held. Here is a photo of the views out of the window on our drive. SO beautiful. They are canola fields. Can you believe it! That is where all that canola oil in your pantry comes from!

After a good 1st nights rest, Malia is introduced to "peanut". The cutest little pupper around. Peanut did not know what she was in for with this little monster! Luckily her Mommy Peck was close at hand to keep the pinching to a minimum.

Interpritation of what Peanut is thinking, "Hurry up and take the picture and save me!!"

Now this was something special that you don't find just anywhere. This little bush produced the most delicious berries I have ever had! They are called Honey Berries. This was our first expirience with them, and hopefully not our last! Hannah and Allie plucked the whole bush to use in our homemade honey berry pancake breakfast.

The "fruits" of our labor...

What a honey berry looks like.

They tasted like a sweeter blueberry, but really hard to describe their exact flavor. Lets just say "yummy".

Mrs. Jones whipping up the pancakes and Uncle Dave cooking the sausage and bacon.

The breakfast club! Oh man am I CRAVING some of those pancakes right now! This is what you call breakfast on a farm, so delicious! We stayed with Grammy's cousins David and Peck. Their farm was right next door to David's Mom's cattle farm, Auntie Petra. This photo shows mostly her family and Grandpa Jackson.

Much more to come!! Check back soon!!

Skate Session with the Fam

2009-07-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

Here are the rest of the photos I promised to post from our little skate sesh last Saturday morning. We have to get to the park at 7am to beat the "big kids" and get room for Gabe to skate around. He LOVES it and I think Daddy loves it equally as much. Sometimes Malia and I tag along. I used to skate a little, but now that I am prego I thought I would take some photos of my boys...

Gabe, showing off his moves

Taking a break to love Malia

Through the handlebars

My sweet boys

Now is this kid cool or what!?

In the bowl

The drop in sequence....

My cute booty girl

Forgot the shoes on the way out... so Malia got to show off her puties

Malia, getting a little fresh. I seriously worry about this girl sometimes

Notice the pinched fingers. It is a must for him while focusing on his skateboarding skills

Malia gets a turn

Skatepark Preview

2009-07-14T08:39:00.001-07:00

Took the whole fam to the skate park last Saturday morning. Here is a preview... more to come soon.

My Job

2009-07-10T10:04:00.000-07:00

How can you not fall in love with these faces!! I swear every time I see them I fall in love with them all over again. Isn't it just the best to be a Mother/Father? I have had, literally, like 20 jobs in my life time... everything from soap maker to lifeguard. Nothing compares to the job of being a parent. And let me tell you it is for sure a job! BUT, the most rewarding job you could ever have.
Being a parent has shown me that like any job, you can take it seriously, or just pass the time without much effort. And the rewards you reap depend on how dedicated and hard working you are. Not only that, but your efforts decide much of the success your children will have in life. My efforts will also determine the amount of joy and happiness being a parent gives me.
I used to watch these shows about Mothers who had wished they knew how hard it would be to be a parent. That if they had to do it over again they might not have gone down that road. I give them props for being honest, but honestly, I see now that they just have not learned the most important life lesson that you learn from being a parent.... selflessness. And the rewards of that lesson.
I used to worry that I might have those feelings (before I had kids) after starting a family. And although I think sometimes we all get a little self centered and remember the ease of life before kids, if I really think about it, I will remember that my heart has grown 3 times larger since bringing these little lovers into my home. The idea of Heavenly Father wanting us to "become like a child" truly makes sense, and I have never smiled or laughed so much in my entire life. I have never felt such a sense of importance and I have never been more grateful for a gift ever before than the gift of raising children, of being able to parent and pour all of myself into one thing knowing that the reward is beyond just me feeling good about it. It is all for someone else and that is the most rewarding feeling you could ever get... learning how to become Christlike. Which is pure love, Charity, selflessness. I am no longer numero uno, I can now understand how Heavenly Father can know each and every one of us, by name, and love each of us individually. How bringing more children into your life can only make your ability to love greater than it was before. Yes, being a parent is the best job ever. I can't wait for the next job to arive in November ;)

Night time at the SD ZOO

2009-07-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

The San Diego Zoo is open at night right now so we decided to head down to SD yesterday after the kids woke up from their naps. Well, Mike asked Gabe what he wanted to do and he said he wanted to go the the zoo so Mike and I looked at each other and said... why not!? It ended up being SO much fun!
It was pretty cool to see all the of the animals come alive at night time, and the crowds all go home!

Gabe has overcome his fear/embarrassment of taking photos on top of large animal statues. IN FACT... he HAD to get a picture on every single one we happened upon. They had a TON of them at the new elephant exhibit (SO COOL, you must go if you have not seen it yet).

Malia was all over the place, trying to bend bars to enter the exhibits, climb over the fences, and lean over the edge on the sky buckets. This girl makes me nervous!

Gabe and Mrs. Jones- So excited to be up in the sky at night!

This lion was playing with this lady and her cup! It was SO funny. Just like playing with a super huge cat and a toy. We also got to see the mail lion pace the fence and hear him roar! It was awesome.

Yet another animal photo...

I thought this tree was so cool. It looks like it is going to come alive and start talking to you!

And Gabe on a bird...

This is the secretary bird, way cool. And check out that enormous nest!

While I'm away (or on the computer) the kids will play...

2009-07-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

Some of you have asked, " How do you have time to get so much blogging done!?" I have tried to answer this question as best as possible, but as they say, a picture tells a thousand words.
This was the state of my living room after posting blogs the other day. I usually deal with some sort of distraction about every 15 minutes, but this was a surprise when I walked into the living room. I swear when I went in there 20 min. earlier it was spotless. They had fun!
I spent the next 30 min. (while the kids napped) cleaning it up. BUT... on a positive note I got some extra things done that day- 1. clean out diaper bag, check 2. Find 3 pairs of Gabe's missing underwear- check (no idea where they came from, but they ended up on my entryway floor). 3. Re-organize the toy drawer- check.

Did you figure it out?

2009-07-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

As you can see by our newly remodeled blog layout... we found out we are having a BOY!! YIPPEE!! We are SO SO SO excited. Mike and I both were leaning towards wanting a boy. We both really felt like it was a boy, and that made us start to get used to the idea of it being a boy, and then when the time came to find out we got a little worried that we might be disappointed if it was a girl. I guess you never know what your reaction will be until you know, but I was so afraid I would not be as grateful as I should be if it was a girl... thankfully we were right and I didn't have to find out! ;) I am so stoked to have another little lover boy around here. Now for the name... we will let you know when we figure it out. We have nothing yet, time to get started!

The good with the bad

2009-07-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know we have started feeling the blow of our Countries difficult economic times. Mike has recently found out he is getting laid off and has had no luck what so ever of finding a new position. Times are tough... but, I feel SO lucky in a way to be going through this. Because, with every struggle, comes a lesson to learn. And with every struggle we are able to overcome, comes a new or renewed appreciation for all that we have, it makes us better and stronger.
At first the unknown made us all a little stressed out and worried about the trial we were about to face. We do know there are and will be more trials associated with our current situation, but the outpouring of help and support is what has given us the ability to move forward with our heads high and our emotions positive. SO many people have lended a hand and asked what they could do to help us out. People are constantly telling us they are praying for our little family and we can just feel the love surrounding us. I want to say thank you to all of our friends and family. We could not get through this without you.
This situation has made me realize how skewed my perspective was of what I "need" vs. what I "want". And I now can really understand why my grandparents and parents have always saved their money, even without any future plan for it. They have been great examples of "living below their means". How grateful I am for their examples.
We truly feel lifted up and supported by so many kind and wonderful people. We are able to stay in our home thanks to the owners of our home releasing us of any rent payment for the next few months, we are able to pay our bills through the little money we will be receiving and the help of family and church- In what other time would we be taken care of like this? I think of those without homes and without people to turn to. I am grateful for the loved ones in my life who have stayed prepared, so that when the time came, they could help us. Their examples will be what drives me to continue to prepare ourselves when we are back on our feet. Not only to be prepared for our future, but to BE ABLE to give charity to others and help when needed.

4th of July- Malia... over exposed

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

4th of July this year- a pancake breakfast filled us to the brim, then off to Dana Point Harbor to meet up with the Proffits for a little beach BBQ and birthday celebration for my friend Lisa. The kids enjoyed playing at the "baby beach" (which I now get why it is called that! You don't have to worry so much about your babies... no waves to knock them over). Then, back home for naps and a DELICIOUS dinner at Grandma Melinda's house- 3 kinds of ribs, bean salad, potato salad, homemade lemonade, cupcakes and homemade ice cream! Besides making the potato salad I did not have to cook one thing all day! And we ate SO much good food. Then back home to walk to the beach to see the fireworks. This Mrs. Jones had to watch them from the front yard because Malia pooped out before we could finish off the day... but still got to see a great show from the yard! Hope you enjoyed celebrating your independence as well. Happy 4th!!

Here is our little beach bunny in her super cute roxy bikini.. over exposed ;)

Do you think Gabe was having fun!? He was dancing across the beach. And if I do say so myself.. his hair was looking AMAZING as usual.

Splashing Mommy with the unusually cold July ocean water.

Mrs. Jones and the "baby bump" hangin with her girl Malia

Our little swimmer boy

2009-07-07T11:39:00.000-07:00

Gabers just finished his second round of swim lessons and we officially have a swimmer!! He did so great and loved every second of it... which made Mrs.Jones VERY happy. I have very different memories of swim lessons when I was a child. Lets just say the only thing that got me through them was my Mother's promise of a A&W root beer float after every lesson. Gabe is my little fish though, and he just did so well. He can now swim to us from the side, or swim back to the side from us. Way to go Gabe! We are so proud of all of your hard work!

A fun visitor...

2009-07-07T11:28:00.000-07:00

Gabe misses this girl SOOOO much!! We had a blast playing with Maty, Mrs. Jones' second cousin, all last week. She stayed at our house for a few days while visiting all of us here in CA from MO. We went to the pool and the beach and can I tell how great she was with Malia and Gabe!? He just fell in love with her and now he can't stop talking about how Maty is his FAVORITE. He cried all day after she left.
Thanks for visiting us Maty!! We will miss you and can't wait to see you in 3 years ;) Love you!

Father's Day

2009-07-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

Gabe, Malia, and Mrs. Jones spent ALL day making Daddy a handmade father's day card and wrapping this present. Gabe did such a good job following instruction on how to wrap and where to place the tape and did such a great job! These kids really love their Daddy. And Daddy LOVED his 2 new pairs of rainbow sandals.

Tom Boy

2009-07-07T09:13:00.000-07:00

Malia LOVES to put on Daddy's shoes and hats. The funny thing is that she will never really put on my shoes! I think it is because she misses her Daddy during the day while he is at work and it just makes her feel better.

We have a baby!

2009-06-17T11:52:00.000-07:00

... no longer a sea monkey!! Mommy went to the doctor yesterday, and after a little coaxing (and unfortunately not ultra sound photo to share), got to see our little baby and hear the heart beat! I could not believe how much you could see. It actually looked just like a little baby, and boy was it moving around! Kicking like crazy and moving it's arms. Still could not see any "family jewels (or the lack there of)" but that should happen at my next ultra sound in two weeks.
Being able to see a real life little baby on the monitor really made this whole thing even more real to me. It was the most amazing thing to see the baby and think, "Wow, that is MINE, and it is inside of ME!" What a miracle. I am SO grateful and blessed to be able to go through a pregnancy at least once in my life. I have also been feeling the baby kicking a lot this week. That is such a comfort and really helps me to begin to feel really bonded to this little person. Looking for to updating you all in a few weeks with the sex! Can't wait!

Girls will be girls...

2009-06-10T10:00:00.001-07:00

Typical girls! Hanging out at the beach on the towel, under the umbrella, eating! I love seeing the difference between girls and boys when you watch different kids interact. This is Malia's best girl friend, Kahili. They are the same age and are going to be heart breakers don't you think!? Our little beach bunnies.

and boys will be boys...

2009-06-10T09:50:00.001-07:00

Gabe is taking "low riding" to a new level. The board shorts fit him fine dry... another story when they got wet. His whole bottom was popping out of his pants. Since he is only 3, we just laughed about it.

We had a fun beach day with friends Karla with a "k" and Jenelle and their kids. The boys are all the same age so it was SO fun to watch them play and get all sandy and just have pure child enjoyment playing in the shore break.
This is Gabe's friend Kai, such a cute little guy. He and Gabe are currently taking swim lessons together and are both loving it and doing so well. We will have two good swimmer boys soon... I can just feel it! (p.s.- Notice the Gabe booty in the back ground)

Gabe's Chore chart

2009-06-10T09:42:00.000-07:00

Some of you requested a photo of the "responsibility chart" that I use with Gabe. No joke, this thing rocks. He still gets excited to put up his stars, pick out his reward, and switch up his chores every now and again. I think the variety keeps him into it. And that makes me happy! This little kid makes his bed, sorts his laundry, folds his shirts and pants, and puts away his clothes and toys. He also has gotten a lot better at sharing with his sister, knowing that he might just earn a star for doing so.
Things I love about this chart:
1. Durability
2. Flexibility, you can use the pre=made velcro ideas, or they have some blank ones you can fill out yourself.
3. You can even place a photo of the goal they are working toward.
4. You post how many stars they need to earn to get the reward, your choice.

Here is the link if you are interested in buying one. :

http://www.onestepahead.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=534909

My beginner belly

2009-06-10T09:34:00.001-07:00

Per Betsy's request... Some photos of the growing baby bump...

A Couple more portraits of Gabe and Malia

2009-06-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

A few more photos

2009-06-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

Here are some more portraits from the kids portrait session. These are Malia's one year portraits, thought I would share how cute this girl is! Her little personality really shows in the first photo... at least I think it does.

Malia and her rain boots

2009-05-21T08:44:00.001-07:00

Malia's aunt Chelsea got her some cute rain boots for her baby shower when she was just born. She is just starting to fit in them and loves to wear them around the house. It is pretty funny because they go way up on her little legs and she has a hard time walking, check out the video.

Can I get some help around here!?

2009-05-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!! I am getting some! And I am so proud of my little mister. Gabe is quite the bed maker. I have been so impressed with his skills, I had to take some photos and put them up on the blog. I SWEAR I did not touch this bed. He makes his bed every morning and I give him stars on his chore chart when he is all done. Is it just me, or do you agree that a boy, not even 3 1/2 should not be able to make a bed this well!? I am not complaining, just impressed! This is one detailed kid. He has to make most of it while standing up on the bed since he cannot reach from the floor. And the sheet underneath is perfectly pulled up under the comforter. He also now takes his own laundry hamper out to the garage and can sort it into our whites, lights and colors bags... all by himself! Next lesson... how to properly fold a shirt ;)

Mommy's having fun

2009-05-21T08:23:00.001-07:00

First off can I just say how cute this girl is getting! She now will sit and snuggle me in the morning... ahhhhh. I thought for sure she was not going to ever do that. It is my favorite thing EVER and now I have two kids who snuggle!! Malia has the mornings covered, and Gabe will snuggle me anytime of day or night so I pretty much have it made now ;)
Malia now has quite the "mane". It has been so fun to put her hair back and have her look like a cute little girl, no more baby! (for now ;) )
This is a photo of my latest favorite doo. I usually do a better job, but did not have time to wet it and use a comb this particular morning. But... I wanted to give you an idea of how long her hair is! At only 14 months old.

New Due date!!

2009-05-08T07:48:00.000-07:00

I got a more detailed ultra sound yesterday and gained a week! It was so nice... one more week closer to NOT being sick ;) So my due date is more like November 30th (they still wont give me a sure due date!), but they said I am 10 weeks, 3 days along. Baby looked fine, I got to see the heart beat and baby again yesterday, so amazing. All of my blood work came back and we are looking good! As far as I go, still feeling sick most of the time, but hanging in there! Mike makes me breakfast almost every morning because I cannot open the fridge without getting sick. He is working over time these days and taking great care of us! Thanks my love!

They flew the coop!

2009-05-01T17:40:00.001-07:00

Remember these two? They might look a little different from my last post of them. They are all grown up and out of the nest! Usually we look outside one day and they are in the nest, and the next they are gone and we never see them again.
Well this time we had a special treat! Mike spotted them with their mother behind our garage, getting their first lessons in flight! They were so cute and it was neat to see them out of the nest. Farewell our little feathered friends! We will see you next spring Mrs. Dove!

Pool Party Pic-i-nic

2009-05-01T17:29:00.000-07:00

It was a HOT HOT HOT day! So we pulled out the plastic pool and had a swim! Gracie wore her new SUPER CUTE roxy bathing suit and Mrs. Jones made some yummy lunch for all to enjoy. We made silly faces and stayed cool under the big green umbrella.... ahhh.... lazy days.

Easter Portraits

2009-05-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

Don't worry... he was not hurting her, just bugging her. She DID NOT want to take a photo with him. Ahhhh... brotherly and sisterly love at it's finest.

This is embarrassingly late, but I wanted to share. Gabe was having a "bad morning" and not down for photos, but I did get a few before church... and here they are!!

A pre-summer beach day.. again!

2009-05-01T16:57:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had some AWESOME summer weather, 85 degrees in the sun! That called for a family beach day full of sand toys, beach chairs, and one pink umbrella. Malia and Gabe actually had fun playing together, to my happy surprise! I think I just might be fine taking them to the beach this summer by myself. Gabe has developed a new fear of the ocean, and Malia found his courage that he lost from last summer ;)

Daddy chasing Malia out of the ocean- She was charging it! And it was COLD!! I can't imagine how much more she will love it this summer when the water warms up! What is up with my babies not being afraid of the ocean!?

Malia was washing the sand off of her feet in the bucket, so girlie like.
The kids were having a blast filling up their buckets with water and sticking their faces in them to blow bubbles. It was cute because they would do it simultaneously- Isn't it great when your kids start playing together? Man, life gets WAY easier.
I had to include this one because she just looked so cute and it really shows off her personality. My little wild child.

2009-04-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

A sneak peak from the SUPER FUN photo shoot we had today with Tiffany Photography. I have long admired her work and when my Mother-in-law wanted to get some new portraits done for Malia's 1 year mark, I knew just the girl!
I am so excited to see the rest. Tiffany is so creative and SO amazing with the kids. What a refreshing experience to get to just sit back and relax and let someone else stress about getting the perfect shot, keep the kids in good moods, and do all the editing. All I have to do is enjoy these wonderfully priceless shots!! I don't think I will ever be my kids portrait photographer again! ;) I guess it makes sense, your kids are always more behaved for someone else! Stay tuned for the rest... oh, I so have ants in my pants... can't wait!!

Little Sea Monkey... we love you!

2009-04-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

Mr. Jones and I went to the doctor yesterday to have our first ultrasound. It was so amazing. We got to see our little sea monkey and were able to see the little flutter of the heart on the monitor, it eased my mind to know I wasn't just pretending, it's real! I still can't believe it sometimes. All I can say is what a miracle it is to have this little bean growing inside me... we are due sometime in the beginning of December. They have not given me a for sure due date yet, maybe at my appointment tomorrow? ? ? We will see!

Miracles are alive and well

2009-04-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

Let me just start out by saying how grateful I am that God has a plan for us, and that his plan for me is perfect and better than I could have ever come up with on my own.
I believe we have free will, but that Heavenly Father also puts us through trials and obstacles in life that sometimes prevent us from getting or doing what we want, impeding upon our free will.. if you will. Although it is so hard to see why, I believe there is a reason. I feel it is ALWAYS the best thing for US at the time, and in the big picture will help us to be better, help ME to be a better me.
Lets start 5 years ago, when I married the most wonderful man. I had wanted to have children ALL my life, I was born to be a mother, I just knew it. I wanted to get started on my family right away.
4 years ago... We had been trying to have children for a year, and decided we needed a little fertility help. We began going to a fertility specialist only to find out that BOTH of us had infertility issues. We were told that is was very unlikely that we would ever be able to get pregnant on our own, without help. I began taking fertility drugs, and immediately felt my body telling me that it was not the right thing to do. I stopped and began down the road of acceptance that I may not ever be able to conceive children.
a little over 3 years ago... I had made it to that place, finally, that is SO hard to get to. I was ready to accept that I would not be able to conceive a child. I was lifted up with the support of my Heavenly Father and savior Jesus Christ, my family and Husband, and began contemplating adoption as a way to begin our family.
A little while later Mike also had the feeling that we needed to go the route of adoption, that it was in the cards for us and that this would bring us children and more happiness and joy than we could ever imagine.
Shortly there after... Gabriel Robert Jones was born to the most amazing Angel Mother, Phoenix, and she did the most Christ like thing a human being can do.. she entrusted him to a family, to us, so that he could have a Mother and Father and have more than she as a young teen could give him. He made our hearts swell and we loved him from the moment we laid eyes on him.
A little over a year and a half ago... We felt the desire to have another child. I was afraid to open up my mind to trying to conceive naturally again, and was torn between trying to get pregnant (and having to give up again) or go the route of adoption again. Mr. Jones and I prayed, and both, individually, got the impression that there was a special child out there that was meant to be in our family. That needed Gabriel as an elder brother... that we needed to adopt again. We were SO excited to move forward with our family.
A little over a year ago... Malia Jones was born to yet again one of the most amazing 17 year old girls I had ever met, our second Angel Mother, Kara. She gave me the little girl I had always wanted, I love her so much. She brings light and joy into all of our lives and her and Gabe LOVE each other beyond words.
About 6 months ago... I got the distinct impression my family was complete! That we would not adopt again. I felt a sense of peace with the beautiful children we had been blessed with. I felt so much joy and love for them and felt that we had completed our family. I did not hope for having a child naturally, I was happy, we were happy. I looked back and realized that I had become what I thought would be so hard to become just a few years back, at peace and full of gratitude for Heavenly Father's plan for us to adopt our children, and not to conceive them ourselves. I felt so blessed that we had been chosen to be adoptive parents. That we got to have our children come to us in such a special way, and I had no desire to ever have it any other way than the road we had taken to get to that point. We had two beautiful amazing children that had come to us in such a miraculous way.
Just this month... A miracle. It seems God had other plans for our little family. I am PREGNANT! Now, I know this may fall on ears that have joy and some a little sadness from hearing this news. For those who also have not been able to have children naturally, I know. And all I can say is I am as grateful as a human can possibly be for this miracle. I appreciate that Heavenly Father has answered my prayers, and that He has decided that it is now my time, that now is His time (which is SO much more important than my time actually) to bless us with this miracle. For those of you who have or can have children, yours is a miracle as well, cherish it as much as you can. There are so many who never have this miracle happen to them. Be sensitive to those around you whom you know are struggling. Know that mention of child birth or pregnancy can pain them at times, it is one of the hardest trials a woman can go through.
Now, my whole point, or my main thought that I wanted to share. I am now in the future, five years into our marriage, into my wonderful blessed little family. I am looking back at my pain, suffering, difficulty accepting that I could not have children. And then my joy and happiness and realization that there was something special in store for us, two somethings, Gabe and Malia. And now, seeing that there is at least one more child, that was waiting for us to go through ALL of that, to ensure that these two that I already have, came to OUR family. I don't understand it all, God's plan for me that is, but that is ok. I trust Him, have faith in Him, and know that he knows me, Becky, and loves me more than I could ever know. And, looking back, I can see that He knows better than I do. Yes, He put me through that difficult time, puts us all through difficult times, but I feel this is why: Because how much greater can we understand joy and happiness if we have been through such sorrow and struggle? How much greater our joy will be than those who have seen no different. In other words, we have to understand pain and suffering to truly appreciate and understand joy. To have the most joy we can possibly have. And what Father would not want that for His children? We go through trials, to more appreciate the joy and miracles in our lives.
I have know this concept for many years, but this experience has made me understand it even more. I will appreciate and enjoy every moment of this miracle. I will never take it for granted because I KNOW what it is like to NOT have the choice to create your own child. I have experienced that sorrow, and now my heart is overflowing with joy at the news that we are to have a baby.
We will keep you all posted as we get any new news. Please keep us in your prayers as it is still early on. I cherish all of my friendships and loved ones. You mean the world to me, and I am SO excited to go through this with all of you by our sides.

A tweety treat

2009-04-01T09:28:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have been around since my family website days, you will remember that we have a mother dove that nests in our hanging orchid plant in the backyard, every spring. She showed up a few weeks ago and it seemed both Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Dove we happy to see each other again! She is always so tame with me and lets me stand on the bench and peek in on her to check the progress.
A few mornings ago we were awoken by little chirping outside of our bedroom window. I was so excited to see the new arrivals! They have been safely tucked under their Mama until today.
I took the kids outside to hold them up and to see if would could glimpse at the babies yet and they were both poking out from under their Mommy! So cute!! We will keep you updated as they grow and "fly the nest" in the next couple of weeks.