Hale Family

Birthday, Birthday, Birthday!

2012-01-25T09:58:00.013-05:00

Our family has a cluster of Birthdays around the end and beginning of each year. I kick things off on December 28th, then Ben on January 3rd, and then our big boy Max on January 24th. So here is a photo journal of our celebrations!

Here's me and Jake on my birthday enjoying some Brazilian food at Trolly Square in UT.

I call this picture, "Tiny Tim." He had a thing for my mother-in-laws cane. Lucky for him it was adjustable, so we set it to the smallest setting and let him walk around with it a little. It was the funniest thing.

Me and my cake the boys and grandma made for me...I loved it, white with PINK sprinkles. I must say it's fun to be the girl in this group.

Now onto Ben's birthday. He turned 35 this year and yes, we put 35 candles on that cake.

Someone call the fire department!

Max turned 6 yesterday! I can't believe how big and grown up he is getting. I'm starting to get nervous for him to loose his first tooth. His little look will change so much, his smile and baby teeth are the only thing keeping him looking like a little boy :(. He loves to eat at Red Robin, so we had our family dinner there last night. I'm not sure if it's the balloons or the spaghetti he likes the most.

I think he reminded our server it was his birthday like 5 times, no lie....he wanted that Birthday ice cream sunday and fun song they sing!

Pure satisfaction!

Luckily, he was kind and shared it with his brothers.

We came home and met some friends for some cake and ice cream. We are totally into star wars and legos around here.

The winning present this year was the Webkinz! I'm sure as soon as he gets off the bus this afternoon, he will be glued to the computer setting up his Webkinz account!

Happy Birthday my 6 year old. I sure love you. You are so responsible and thoughtful. I can still remember the beautiful snowy morning of your birth!

Thunder Struck

2011-11-19T11:48:00.003-05:00

So I was trying my best to find the best Halloween pictures to share, but this one trumps them all! Halloween this year fell on Monday, and of course Ben had to work, and of course this is exactly how he looked as he was inches from you and your mouth holding a drill! Doesn't get much scarier than that....well, maybe it does.....those jeans you think he is wearing in the picture above are really cut off jean shorts....and they're short!

I know right?!??!

2011-11-14T18:31:00.010-05:00

So here are pictures from the first day of school....yes, school started when your kids school started...I'm way behind on posting...I know right?!?!? So here is big Max going off to Kindergarten. It's everyday, half day. I love having him home for lunch! I wanted to drive him to school, but he didn't want any part of that. "I want to ride the bus because it is really long, it has lots of seats and has its own stop sign!" The swagger wagon can't compete with that.

This was also Seth's first year of Preschool. He was so excited and totally ready. After taking Max the previous two years, Seth has already become aquatinted with the school and the teachers. It was like Cheers! Everyone knew his name!

And of course our little fella, Jake. He doesn't miss a beat! He loves to help me watch for the bus and get those boys off to school. He is my little shadow. I love our time just the two of us!

I guess next school year I'll have two shadows, one to follow and one to carry!

"Money Money Money by the Pound"

2011-09-15T07:45:00.000-04:00

This is such a late post, my little Sethy turned 4 on August 23rd! He has grown into such an amazing kid. He is my tender hearted peace maker. He's very adventurous...I often loose him because he sneaks out of the house and rides down to his friend's house on his scooter. The moment I realize I need to look for him is the moment the phone rings telling me my little one is at the neighbor's. Seth loves to snuggle and be close, I love it. He loves to rock out when we're driving in the car to songs like, "Another one Bites the Dust" by Queen or "Beat it" by Micheal Jackson.

Seth's favorite toys are LEGOS. He loves to build them, show me pictures of future lego purchases, go to friend's houses and build their legos...he just loves them. Which is good and bad for me, I'm happy he is doing something constructive, but I never know when I'm going to step on one of those little pieces. So, you can see what inspired his Birthday Cake this year. I made the actual cake, Ben always does the creative portion, including idea and execution.

Seth has been enjoying the movie, "Pete's Dragon" this year. One of those Disney Classics from the 70s. It's full of music, and Seth knows just about every song. This was the first year he understood Birthday cards and the possibly of money being inside.

As soon as the money fell out, he ran to his piggy bank singing, "Money Money Money by the Pound", a song from Pete's Dragon. It was pretty hilarious.

A Birthday's not complete without dinner at Chuck E Cheese! It was a perfect night, there was hardly a soul there. Seth had a blast!

Happy Birthday Buddy Boy!

Preserving

2011-08-22T07:08:00.007-04:00

How to Preserve a Husband

"Be careful in your selection. Do not choose too young. When selected, give your entire thoughts to preparation for domestic use. Some wives insist upon keeping them in a pickle, others are constantly getting them into hot water. This may make them sour, hard, and sometimes bitter; even poor varieties may be made sweet, tender and good, by garnishing them with patience, well sweetened with love and seasoned with kisses. Wrap them in a mantle of charity. Keep warm with a steady fire of domestic devotion and serve with peaches and cream. Thus prepared, they will keep for years."

This is what was in the back of a 1974 Ball canning book. I thought it was hilarious!

Here's another picture I took of the book to show what women were wearing while working hard in the kitchen.

Now for what I was really trying to post about. Ben and I canned peaches this weekend. Ben has seen/done it before as a boy, but I was a first timer with peaches. It was a lot easier than I thought it was going to be. We bought this bushel from a farmer, Mr. Burnham. He has a great farm about 45 minutes west of us. He also has apple orchards that we'll be visiting in about a month or two.

Hopefully I have preserved these peaches correctly and they will be enjoyable for the months and year ahead, but it will be a forever canning process to keep my sweetheart preserved ;)

Safety Town

2011-08-14T14:03:00.006-04:00

Our area of the world has a great program for all up coming Kindergarteners called, safety town. It's a week long event where they learn a different sort of "safety" each day. One day it's fire safety and the fireman comes and shows off his rig, one day it's bus safety and they ride the kids around to all the elementary schools in our city, another day it's water safety, so on and so forth. They also learn their address and phone number as well as getting their picture and finger prints for an id card. It's pretty cool and the kids love it. In every city where Safety Town is held, they have a Safety Town...hence the name. Below are some pictures of our city's Safety Town, fully equipped with traffic signs and lights, roads, houses and buildings, and little cars for the kids to drive around in.

These pictures were taken at the beginning of June...as you can tell by Max's eye, he totally was suffering from seasonal allergies:-(. Max starts school on the 26th of this month, we've got less than two weeks till we start this new chapter in our lives.

Botanical Gardens

2011-08-13T10:26:00.007-04:00

I'm trying to really enjoy these last days of summer break before school starts. Last week went to the zoo with a group of friends and this last Thursday, we went with this group of fun friends to the Botanical Gardens. It was the perfect temperature and a ton of fun for the kids to run around and play.

A little less than two weeks left, I can't believe how fast the summer has gone!

Jake's Summer

2011-07-23T17:50:00.009-04:00

We have gone non stop this summer, and poor little Jake has been our mascot! He has gone to every tee ball practice, tee ball game, soccer practice, swim lesson, you name it. I truly think he believes he's just as old and big as his brothers. He is dying to get on every field and looking for ways to get around me or anything else in his way. He's such a good natured little fellow, I had to give him a post before I put all of the big boys summer adventures up. He's Max and Seth's BIGGEST FAN! We love you Baby! (For some reason, who ever is the youngest child we call them Baby Max, or Baby Seth, or now...Baby Jake. We eventually just drop their name and call them Baby.)

Ben took this picture; Jake has conquered climbing onto the counter. He really is a Super Baby!

Here he is drinking Seth's water bottle while at tee ball practice.

Poor guy is watching the boys play with fire crackers.

Jake is watching a little dog out the window at a boat marina.

After all our trips to the Lake this summer, Jake has finally warmed up to swimming and getting into the water...he loves it!

The Blob and Water Tramp

2011-07-07T12:35:00.003-04:00

We had a blast in TN again! This time we brought a water Trampoline, it was a blast. Can't wait till next week!

Moments That Matter Most

2011-06-27T13:52:00.000-04:00

Some Friends that are Great as Hale

2011-06-26T21:30:00.000-04:00

These are some of our best family friends. They have truly been a blessing to Ben and I since living in OH. They are a couple that would do anything for you and we have learned so much from their example of service and love. Thanks so much for all you do and ALL the fun we have down in Tennessee!

Red and Oh So Sweet!

2011-06-12T20:00:00.000-04:00

Last year was our first year picking strawberries, I just about missed the season. This year, I've been keeping tabs on a local strawberry farm just down from our house. We even brought Ben along to help us with our efforts. Jake was old enough this year to walk along side of us and eat what he picked. He was a mess by the time we were finished. I had to remind the big boys to only pick the red ones, not the green or orange ones. Thank goodness I was making freezer jam with them...it calls for a ton of sugar!

Sorry to all those that aren't on my visiting teaching route...this was there June treat with visit!

Fun as Hale

2011-06-11T12:00:00.000-04:00

We love spending our Memorial Day weekend down in Tennessee! This year there was a new addition to the Hale family...our boat! My vote for his name is, "Fun as Hale"...let me know if you have any better ideas for names?!?! Here is a few pictures from our weekend of fun.

The maiden voyage. Our friends dropped us in and drove the truck back to the cabin so we could take the boat out for the first time as a family!

Yes, I was finally able to get up on the wake board...I know it might be hard to believe since this picture doesn't show me up.

A weekend at the cabin wouldn't be complete without fire crackers*****

The Beginning of the End

2011-05-23T12:51:00.008-04:00

Maxton's last day of preschool was Thursday. On his last day, the school has an olympic day and picnic and each kid can bring one parent. I was thrilled when Max picked me over Ben to attend...it rare that the boys pick me over Ben. Here are a few pictures of us at Olympic Day.

Max with his teacher this year, Miss Kelly. He has really enjoyed her class this year!

That same night, was his Preschool Graduation. Ben thinks it's silly that there should be any graduations besides for High School and College, but I thinks it's great to celebrate these milestones in their little lives. It was such a special night, and he looked so grown up. I didn't cry, I think because he is so ready and excited to move on...I'm happy for him. He was able to walk in the Flag as you can see here.

Here's Miss Carroll giving Max his certificate.

What a doll you are Max. I love you! You've grown so much. All that stands between me being a mom of little ones that stay home and a mom that has school age kids is three short months. I pray we enjoy every minute before that bus shows up.

A Bunny Called Easter

2011-04-29T16:23:00.006-04:00

My neighbor was telling me about her little boy who just turned three this last weekend. He met the Easter Bunny for the first time at a family hunt a week prior to Easter Weekend. Days after this meeting, he asks his mom, "Is there a bunny named Easter?"

The last great thing about my trip to China, was that I made it home in time for Easter Weekend. Saturday we woke up early and got ready to hunt eggs with a group of our friends. Saturday night, while I was putting the boys to bed, I asked what Easter was about...thankfully Max said it was about Jesus, I couldn't have asked for a better answer or understanding!

(Seth is starting to dress himself...I'm sure you could tell by this picture)

This picture was taking on Monday after Easter...can you tell Jake raided his brother's Easter Baskets?!?!

Ni Hao

2011-04-28T07:30:00.001-04:00

I'm back from my wonderful trip to China. The only bad part of the whole ten days, was the plane ride. Me and my sister had the best time with my parents. My folks have been living in Beijing working for about 15 months now. They now feel comfortable a world of away from the USA, my dad can speak enough Mandarin to make basic communications with the locals, and they know the best places to eat, shop and use the bathroom (you'll understand that last one a few pictures down).

Good Eats-We went to this amazing dumpling restaurant, and I loved it so much, we had to go one more time before we left. My mom's maid, would cook an amazing chinese lunch a few times during the week, and did I mention she would also wash our clothes every day. It's fun to see my folks eat only with chopsticks, they have really mastered the art. Yes, that is me totally enjoying my lunch and sporting my new black pearl bracelet I picked up at the Silk Market.

Good Shopping-We literally shopped till we dropped. It was amazing all the pearls and purses I came home with. My parents knew all the good vendors and they knew my parents were locals, so they would give us the best deals.

Good relaxation-While in China, I had a 2 hour Korean facial, two foot massages that lasted an hour, one one hour body massage, and a gel manicure. I was in heaven. Just to put it in perspective, it only cost 9 dollars for an hour foot massage!

Good weather-Spring over there is awesome. All the cherry blossoms were out and the temperature was perfect.

Good produce-Everything is so fresh, my mom buys her produce several times a week. She usually buys just what she will eat that day because it doesn't have the preservatives our produce has in the States.

Bad Bathrooms-this is what the toilets look like in China. I took a picture so I will always be grateful for the Western accommodations we fail to enjoy! You can't put any toilet paper in these toilets, all your wipings have to go in the waste basket beside the facility. Thankfully, my parents did know where the Western toilets were and would encourage us to take advantage when we happened upon them.

Good touring-The first day we were there, my whole family took a walk on the Great Wall of China. It was so beautiful and amazing! My mom also took us to the Temple of Heaven, The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Hutongs (the traditional housing of long ago...there is only a small pocket of these hutongs, they've all but been replaced with ski rise apartments).

It was a trip of a life time! Thanks to my folks, and Ben and his parents for taking such great care of my little ones while I was a world away!

The other side of the World

2011-04-08T12:50:00.003-04:00

I'm so excited to see my folks and not only that, but to see them while they are in CHINA! Can't wait to post all the fun pictures and tell you about all my adventures when I return. Oh yeah...I'm going without kids and without hubby (I do wish Ben could come along, but we thought it best to not have us both so far away from the kids and for so long) (and don't feel bad for Ben, he's not having to care for the children on his own...his wonderful parents will be here with him and the boys....thank you thank you!)...just me and my sister!

Walkin'

2011-03-24T15:30:00.002-04:00

I'm so happy that I was able to catch Jake on video taking his first real steps. He's taken one or two, not realizing what was happening, but nothing like what's in this little clip. I have to be honest, the ending is not the best, but it won't be long till we're running!

Party in the Back!

2011-03-15T14:17:00.006-04:00

Before I had kids, a dear friend of mine (I like to call her aunt V) told me it was bad luck to cut a baby's hair before they were one. So, my three little boys sport the baby mullet until then. Yesterday evening, my good friend and neighbor gave my new one year old his first haircut. It's no longer...

Business in the Front

Party in the Back

It's my cute baby boy with his new look!

My cute neighbor/haircutter with Jake...Thanks Dena...he's a doll!

It's fun to be ONE!

2011-03-14T17:21:00.008-04:00

Today was the day, our little Jake turned ONE! He has truly been such a joy to have in our family. He is so happy and good natured. He really took it easy on me becoming a mom of three. He's not walking yet, but he stands up on his own and walks along cabinets, walls, furniture, and anything else he can get his hands on. He enjoys nice quiet moments playing in the toilet and helping me unload the dishwasher. Happy Birthday Baby Jake!

Can you see the family resemblance? We always make the birthday cakes at our house with Ben being the mastermind and head baker of all our creations. I asked him nicely to give me a smile while preparing his angel food cake and this is what I get.

We decided to have a big breakfast this morning, since Ben is home every Monday morning. We had fresh fruit, bagels, breakfast casserole, and angel food cake. It was a yummy morning!

Ding Dong

2011-03-13T21:05:00.008-04:00

Tonight while eating dinner, our door bell rang...no one was there, but a box of Ding Dongs tied with a bow and tag. The tag said, "You've been Ding Dong Ditched". I don't know who did, but it was sure thoughtful! I think Jake enjoyed himself the most, or either he was in training for his Birthday tomorrow. He tore it up!

Final Days

2011-03-12T09:13:00.008-05:00

Well we are down to the Final Days of Winter, and Mother Nature is holding on to this season for dear life! Who am I kidding, where we live Winter holds on through the first part of Spring too...year after year after year. Yesterday, the snow was beautiful...a wonderfully white day. Everything was covered perfectly, I took a drive with the boys just to look at all the snow.

These are also the final days of Jake being a baby. On Monday he will be turning ONE! This year has flown by, but we'll save the rest of all these sappy heart felt feelings for Monday's post.

Through all this reflection, of the season's changing and my baby growing up and reaching his first major mile stone, there is still funny and crazy stuff happening here at the Hale House...

A few days ago, I was putting Jake down for a nap and the big boys were playing. When I came down, Seth says to me very matter of factly, "Mommy, I went pee pee in a bottle and put it in the garbage." Of course a million things began to race through my mind: I never relined the garbage when I took it out, did he keep it all in the bottle during the process, oh please tell me he recapped that bottle before he threw it away, what was Max's part in all this...was he cheering him on, or tell him this wasn't the best of ideas, etc. I got down to the kitchen, stepped into the scene of the crime (a few splatters on the tile), and opened the garbage to find this:

Thank goodness it wasn't as bad as I thought. I was mad, but laughing enough on the inside, to stop in the heat of the moment and take a picture. They're just too cute to stay upset with them, and here's the pictures to prove it.

Mother Goose

2011-03-05T20:59:00.004-05:00

There are few pictures that have me in them. I'm usually behind the camera taking pictures of Ben and the boys. Now don't get the wrong idea...I know I'm looking like mother goose in this photo, but it is definitely a work in progress. I've been thinking a lot about this lately...how much time I actually spend with my boys. By actual time, I mean time I'm totally engaged with them. I know it's a work in progress, it's something I will always work at being and doing better. For now, I'm going to cherish this picture my mom took with me in it and actively engaged with my little ones.

Mom and Dad

2011-02-18T11:24:00.009-05:00

My parents having been living in China since January 2010. I'm not sure how long they will be there, my dad is there for work and the longer he can stay there the better. He loves it...it's a challenge, provides great job security, and he's able to make a little extra money to beef up his retirement. My mom has been able to visit a few times over the last year, but this was dad's first time back to Ohio since he left. Even though we can Skype, it's not the same as being able to call them any time you want. I can talk to them first thing in the morning, or at night...it's a 12 to 13 hour time difference depending on if we are on daylight savings or not. Most of you women can attest to the fact that there are certain times in the day you just need to call your folks right that minute. That has been one of the hardest challenges. Another tough part about them being on the other side of the world, is not having family here in Ohio. Ben and I are both from different places and Ohio is not one of them...my parents living an hour away was one of the reasons we stayed here...that was an adjustment to realize I'm okay here with or without my parents. I've come to terms with the fact that we have a great life here in Northeast Ohio. The other thing I've learned and thought a lot about since they left is family relationships. None of us are perfect and the sooner we can be gentle with ourselves and others, the better our relationships will be.
For the last two months, I've had a ton of fun having my parents come and visit. My mom has been in the states since Christmas, visiting us here and family down in Georgia, and my dad was able to visit two weeks during that time. Family is important! Here are a few pictures of some of the memories we made while they were here.

My dad went with the boys and I to a fun candy/ice cream parlor.

This is us celebrating my Mom's 51st Birthday!

Until next time...we love you and miss you already!

Oh yeah, another thing I'm learning...it's so important that we reach out to all those we know that don't have their family around, or family that has passed from this life.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T11:05:00.002-05:00

We just wanted to wish you all a Happy Valentine's Day, filled with LOVE!

Fast!

2011-02-06T18:50:00.008-05:00

I've finally figured out how to download or import some home videos onto the computer in order to burn them onto discs. Of course I got nothing else done yesterday because I would put in a new tape and go to walk away while it imported and would be stuck to the screen while watching every second. The funny thing was, I wouldn't sit down, because I thought I would just be watching for a second and thirty minutes in, it would finally dawn on me that this would be so much more enjoyable if I would stop leaning over my computer with elbows on the desk and just give into the moment. Even though I still have little ones, those few family home videos we did take have reminded me how far we've come in just a short time. It truly has gone by so FAST. It was amazing to see the growth in our family, the growth in the kids, and in our home decorating. I sometimes catch myself thinking too much about the future, or the next project I want to start on the house, and forget that the fun is happening right this minute and to enjoy what's happening today. It made me want to spend more time, plain and simple.

When I figure out how to organize all this footage and burn it onto a DVD, maybe I'll try to share a few clips on the blog. Until then, here's a few pictures that show the growth and how fast time flies!

Ben and I the month before we got married, June 2003

Our wedding reception August 2003

Ben's Graduations, May 2006

October 2007

July 2009

November 2010

We Arrive at Five!

2011-01-28T20:05:00.011-05:00

Dear Max-

We did it, we've arrived at five! I love you to pieces! You're a beautiful child! Thanks for teaching me all I know...so far. You are so responsible and bright. You remember EVERYTHING, down to the littlest detail. We're both so blessed that you have such a strong and healthy body and mind. Yes, you are a busy little thing and very type 'A' (just like me), but I love it...I definitely have something to work with. You love super heroes, you like to dabble in video games and television watching, you collect all things creepy and crawly, you could drink ranch dressing (like you mother I might add), you're artistic, you keep me on my toes, your little bothers watch and look up to you, you love to play with friends, your a social butterfly, you want to help and please others, you love to have "boys" night with dad, the list could go on and on. Know that I love you and am so thankful to call you mine! Happy Birthday my sweet boy!

Below are pictures of Maxton on each of his Birthdays.

Little Hale Baby Girl!

2011-01-26T13:18:00.006-05:00

No, we are not having a girl, nor are we expecting a new baby! But, I can only imagine our little baby girl looking like this.

It's amazing how much fun little ones can have with an after Halloween clearance wig from Walmart!

What do you do in the Winter time...

2011-01-07T09:27:00.006-05:00

What do you do in the Winter Time when all the world is WHITE? You line up your army guys of course! That's right, The Joker is the POW this time. This is the small and simple thing my little ones are doing this morning. I love it!

34 Years

2011-01-03T12:33:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet Ben! He is the best thing that ever happened to me. It's amazing how the Holy Ghost works...if you can figure out how he whispers promptings and answers to you and how to always listen, then you've got it made (that's one of those small and simple things for 2011). I do know how the Spirit speaks me and I'm so thankful I was listening when I was told it would be perfectly fine to marry Ben on April 6th 2003...after only knowing him for a month and a half. He is truly my other half, my best friend, my companion.

On his birthday I want him to know that I'm so thankful to be by his side through this life and the next.

Small and Simple Things

2011-01-01T19:40:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year! We've picked our family motto for the year...Small and Simple Things. I've added it to my header at the top so that I can try and remember to include that somehow in each of my posts this year. With a busy family of little boys, I find that I don't take very many moments to be still and do something small and/or simple. The small and simple things I'm talking about are and not limited to: reading a story with my boys, looking through the Friend and Ensign, praying by myself, reading the scriptures, turning off the TV, temple work, laughing, enjoying, talking, being kind and gentle with myself and other. The list can go on and on and I'm sure I'll add many more to the list as the year moves along.

I leave you with a few pictures of me blowing out my birthday candles and a shot of me in my BiRtHdAy SuIt...yes, I'm 30 now!

Signing back on....

2010-12-27T13:37:00.002-05:00

I'm back...moderation in all things...I hope to add some photos and updates real soon. Most of you have kept my blog address on your blog list, and for that I'm grateful and feel the love from the blogging world!

Signing off.......

2010-06-30T13:56:00.003-04:00

Hi there Friends and Family! Just wanted to let you know that this is my last post. I've been thinking about getting rid of my blog for the last 6 months or so and finally decided to go through with it. It's been fun, but I'm done. I've decided to go back to the old fashion way of communicating, email and actually talking. In a few days, I will change my settings so that it looks like I've gone private, and then after I figure out how to put what I've posted into a book, I'll delete it. So when you come to check my blog and it says for invited readers only, don't feel like I left you out. Hope things are going well with everyone...I'm sure I'll talk or see you soon...this is Tara signing off............

Creative Memories

2010-06-16T16:20:00.002-04:00

If you are interested in scrapbooking both traditional and/or digitally, Creative Memories has their WOW sale going on right now...a ton of stuff that is 40% off...even their digital scrapbooking software. Let me know if your interested. Here's the link and you can check out their stuff...click here.

2010-06-15T16:46:00.004-04:00

Here are a few pages from my 2009 family digital scrapbook...

Interested?

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-15T16:32:00.002-04:00

Many of you know that my folks are in a far away place, China. They have been there since February. My mom did get to come home for a visit in May to meet Jake, but I've yet to see my dad. Since it takes a lot of money and time to get things shipped back and forth from China, I decided to make a digital card with my digital scrapbooking program (pictured above). Love you Daddy! Miss you Daddy! Maybe we'll see you again in December...maybe!?!?! And no, he can't check my blog in China, so my father's day digital card isn't out of the bag.
On a side note, I just finished my second digital family book...I love it! If any of you are interested in digitally scrapbooking, let me know, they've got an awesome deal right now on their software!

June 14th

2010-06-14T11:31:00.004-04:00

Today is a special day around here, our little Jake is three months old today. He is such a great baby. He sleeps most night straight through, if he does get up it close to 4 in the morning and then he goes right back down. He smiles and coos all day, I love to sit and just talk to him. The boys totally love him, they call him their baby and give him hugs and kisses. Once he gets upset, it is hard to consol the little guy, thank goodness this only happens every once in a while.
Here are a few of his stats: At two months, he had doubled his birth weight. He was in the 95% for weight ad 90% for height. He is currently in 6 to 9 month clothes. Here are a few pictures of Jake I took this morning.

Granddaddy and Gardens

2010-06-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

My Granddaddy Wood has the biggest "green thumb" I know. He loves to be outside tending his garden and yard. Whenever he comes up to my house, I love to find yard projects that we haven't gotten to so that he can help me with. When he was here a little bit ago, he helped put in our garden and plant knock out roses and blueberry bushes. I'm so excited about my blueberry bushes, I think it will be so fun for the boys to pick and enjoy. The best part, was watching him so tenderly prepare the soil and plant each piece...he did it so carefully and with purpose, I couldn't help but think of the Savior, our Gardener. I hope I can care for these new additions to my yard, those bushes will forever remind me of my Granddaddy and how I should take care for the many things I've been blessed with. Thanks Grandaddy, I love you!

Trek 100 2010

2010-06-06T19:55:00.004-04:00

It's that time of year again when Steve and I make our way to Wisconsin for the Trek 100. This is a fundraiser for finding a cure to childhood cancer. Today, up to 80% of children with cancer can be cured. But cancer still remains the leading disease-related cause of death in children. Help us continue the battle against childhood cancer and related blood disorders during the 21st Anniversary Trek 100 Ride for Hope Click here for some childhood cancer facts. I can't imagine one of my boys having cancer or anyone of my loved ones...help me as I raise money for the cause. Please make a donation at my site...click here. My company will match up to 300 dollars of your donations.-Ben Hale

Brothers

2010-06-02T14:11:00.001-04:00

I think this picture speaks for itself...love these boys!

Days Before

2010-05-21T08:49:00.005-04:00

Nine days before Jake was born, a friend of mine took some amazing maternity pictures of me and my two little boys. I had never had this done before because I'm not one to be in the spot light or have any extra attention drawn my way. But with this pregnancy I tried to do all I could to make it special and one to remember...you never know when your pregnant for the last time (I'm not trying to make any sort of annoucement or declaration), but life is special and I feel like the older I get the more I come to understand that little fact. So, when I was approached by this great photography, I said, "Yes!" I'm so glad I did...I feel so maternal as I look at these pictures of my boys and large belly, and know I will always have something as a reminder of this short stage of my life. In the moment, nine months seems so long and uncomfortable, but it is such a small blink in the sceme of things.
Anyone that is pregnant, I recommend jumping out of your comfort box and let that belly hang out for a few pictures. I did have a few taking of my bear stomach...it doesn't look real...it's kinda cool. And any of my friends or family out there expecting, Congratulations!

Two Months

2010-05-14T14:24:00.002-04:00

I'm two months old today. I've been such a joy and blessing to have around. My big brothers love me and Seth loves to touch my face gently and give me kisses. I only get up once in the night to eat and that makes my mommy so very happy and well rested. I'll keep you posted on my new stats once I get home from the doctors on Monday.
In the last month my major accomplishments have been, getting a name and blessing, learning to smile, and getting some strong legs and neck.
***note from mom: it seems like he's been with us forever, can't wait to see what the next few months bring.***

Name that Baby Part 2

2010-05-08T09:24:00.003-04:00

You're right, it is Jake, Max, and Seth. People always ask me who I think Jake looks like and I think it is definitely evident from these pictures that Jake reminds me a lot of Max. So grateful for my three little boys...they make me smile everyday. Thanks for playing friends!

Name that Baby

2010-05-05T07:39:00.005-04:00

See if you can name my babies. And if you can't, tell me which ones look similar. Have fun!

A.

B.

C.

The start of something New

2010-04-29T15:47:00.001-04:00

So...I'm sure you can tell in this picture what we are starting at our house!?!?!?Potty Training. It's just day one and we've already been through three pairs of underpants...not bad.
The other new thing I'm starting is blogging by phone...this is my first post...maybe this will help me blog more often.

First Milestone

2010-04-29T12:24:00.004-04:00

Here's our little one at one month old. Yes, this post is a little late, he is almost 7 weeks now, but I'm sure you'll understand the delay in my post. Things are going well, we are all enjoying our baby Jake, and I'm pretty sure I'm going to make it. I'm feeling great and am back to my ol' self. We plan on blessing him this weekend, can't wait. Enjoy!

Grandparents

2010-03-31T11:00:00.006-04:00

We had some special people come and stay with us when the baby was born. They traveled a few days to get here and spent almost two weeks with us. I don't think I've ever had anyone come and stay/care for me and my family that long since Ben and I have been married. They kept all the clothes clean, the children happy, kitchen spotless, meals on the table, made the baby a quilt, and gave me great encouragement that I CAN do three little boys. I was sad to see them leave, but ready to see if I really could handle it all again. The house hasn't burned down yet, and for the most part I'm doing well...mostly because they took such great care of me. Thank you so much...We love and appreciate you!

Special Delivery

2010-03-29T08:17:00.013-04:00

Jake arrived two weeks ago, on March 14th...he weighed 7lbs 10 oz and was 20 inches long. Things went rather quickly as far as his delivery...thank goodness. I'll save you the details. He's been a great addition...sweet, cuddly, laid back baby....We love him and feel so bless to have him in our family.

This is Max and Jake's first time meeting...Max was so cute, he wanted to hold him immediately and the next thing out of Max's mouth to his father was, "Take a picture of this little guy!"

Seth is doing really well with him too, he is still learner how to love Gently. He loves to know where he is and what he is doing. Yesterday, he even wanted to join in the feeding and asked if he could taste some Mommy Milk...of course I said heck no, go find your father...I'll be done in a minute.

Jake has rather large feet, they make me laugh every time I look at them

And long fingers...I love to look and study all of Jake's little features while I'm holding and feeding him.

He has just as much hair as the other boys did, except for it's a lighter than their hair was. He also has dimples...that is something new...can't wait til he can give us big smiles and we can see these dimples in action.

Ready and Waiting

2010-03-12T08:32:00.002-05:00

I've never been prepared and ready for a baby before, I've always felt like I would have time and that it was too early to get things in order. For my first two pregnancies, that was not the case...They both came at a complete surprise, one at 38 weeks and the other at 36 weeks--I was caught with things half done or not done at all. This time I wasn't going to let that happen, I was going to ready...totally ready--not just have the house cleaned and all the baby stuff out, but I've even had time to let someone take maternity pictures of me, something I've never done before. Some say you should treat every pregnancy and baby like it could be your last (I'm not saying I'm done) and I feel like I've really tried to make this one special. It would be easy not to since it's my third boy, but I've done some real special things for him that I'm real happy about. Now for the first time I'm waiting with nothing really to do before this little one gets here except get more excited to see him and how he will be received by his big brothers.
Just like the others, we never have a set name for our baby until we finally meet him. We do have a small list of names we like, but if any of you out there have a favorite boy name you would like us to consider that would go well with our current names (Maxton and Seth) please put them in your comments.
The longest I have to wait is two weeks (my due date is the 26th), but maybe this little one will show himself soon. We are so excited to see you little baby Hale...come out, come out, whenever you can!

Receiving Blankets Tutorial {Part II}

2010-02-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

Okay lets get this blanket sewed! Sorry it has taken me a couple of days to finish up this tutorial, but it take forever to upload pictures...no lie, it has taken me longer to put this post together then finish the blanket.

Pick a pinned side and sew straight down a quarter of an inch in.

This is what it looks like as you come to the end of one side...be sure that you've kept the bulk of the red fabric out of the way as you sew down...you only want the two edges to be sewed together...
This is what your side should look like after you sew.

This is how it should look as you go to do the next side...I've kept my red material out of the way in the corner, we will take care of all the corners later...also remember that when you come to your fourth side, leave a nice 7-10 inch opening in the middle so you can flip it right side out.

This is what it should look like in every corner once you've sewed up each side.

Here is a picture of the opening I've left on one side so that I can turn it right side out once it's time...don't flip it yet, we still need to take care of the corners.

The top of blanket before the corners and before I've flipped it right side out.

Picture of the back before corners have been sewed.

Now the corners....have your iron and ironing board ready...here is our first corner...they should all look like this.

Pinch and....

Fold it over...

Then grab the point at the top and fold down again...give it a nice pressing with your iron...you are trying to make a nice guild line of where to sew.

Here is my guild line after pressing and opening my fold.

Sew along that line.

Cut off the excess.

Picture of what it should look like after you've sewed, cut and opened up the area.

Do the same to the other three corners and then you are ready to turn right side out...your corner should look like this.

The side of the blanket should look like this when it's right side out.

Here I've located my opening and I'm preparing the area to be sewed up during my top stitch around the whole blanket...I've just folded the red down to meet up with the dino fabric and ironed it a little to stay in place for when I feed it through the machine.

This where I position my foot peddle for the top stitch...I like to pick a fun stitch, like a zig zag or any thing nice and thick and cool looking...that all depends on what your machine has to offer and what you like. Stitch all the way around and and your done!

Fold or roll up how ever you want...I usually roll up a few and tie with a strip of one of the fabrics or use a cute ribbon...it's kinda neat looking if you've made two or three for someone and they are all tied up together with a cute little tag....but that is all up to you. Obviously you can do several different things with this idea once you've put your mind around making your first one...you could do matching burp cloths (rectangular or whatever), etc. Have fun!

RBT {Part I}

2010-02-10T09:49:00.004-05:00

I'm going to post a few more pictures so that maybe it might answer a couple of the questions already received...

This is the back of the pinned blanket...you are looking at the larger fabric and it is not smooth like the top fabric...it is kinda bubbly/bulky (essentially you are making the binding as you go, that is why the back fabric is larger...you will not be doing a binding once the blanket is turned right side out...you will have already taken care of that....but I will be posting that on Part II of the Receiving Blanket Tutorial so don't worry about that yet)

And here is another picture of the top for reference

I think maybe I will try to do a small video click and post it on the blog to go back over the pinning process....It might be easier to understand that way

Receiving Blankets Tutorial {Part I}

2010-02-09T19:49:00.018-05:00

I'm going to try my hardest to do a tutorial on how to make these very easy receiving blankets. When I say easy, I mean you'll be able to make two in one evening and be so excited and proud of yourself that you completely such an easy and cute blanket for the up coming baby shower you have in two days. The hardest part will be my tutorial...I hope I don't make it more complicated by explaining it with words and pictures...for that reason, I'm going to do this in parts. Tonight, I will explain how to prepare, cut and pin the material-that way if there are any questions, we can answer as we go...here goes:

1-buy 1 yard of a fun flannel fabric and 1 1/2 yards of a complementary flannel fabric for the back of the receiving blanket.

2-wash, dry and iron your fabric

3-fold each fabric in half and then in half again...it should look like a rectangle.

4-lay your 1 yard folded rectangle on your cutting mat and cut to a perfect square. Make the square as big as the fabric will allow depending on how uneven the sides are. It usually will only make a 15-17 inch square. Refer to the pictures below (mine was already cut...sorry...mine ended up being 15x15...so obviously once I unfold the fabric it will be a 30x30 square...BUT DON'T OPEN YOUR FABRIC YET)

5-do the same thing as in step 4 with your 1 1/2 of flannel fabric---whatever your smaller fabric ended up being, will decide what you will cut your large square...for example, my small folded fabric was 15x15 so my larger folded fabric had to be 5 inches larger 20x20....if yours is 16.5x16.5, then your larger fabric will be 21.5x21.5 (that's folded remember...when you open up your larger fabric it will be 10 inches larger....so my folded 15x15 and 20x20 squares with open up to be 30x30 and 40x40), here are a few pictures. (again mine was already cut before I decided to do this tutorial)
6-don't unfold anything yet...give them both a nice press with the iron along their folded sides to get the fabric to remember those creases.

7-now open up your fabric.

8-put right sides together and match up a center line on the smaller fabric with a center line on the larger fabric.

9-Pin the top at the center (where your ironed lines are)

10-then pin that whole side (it's a little hard to see my pins in the picture below, but they are there)

11-next, turn and repeat steps 8-10, obviously you'll have to pull the smaller fabric up and over to meet center ironed lines together...I've tried to capture the process in the following pictures. You will do this four times, the pinning process that is, since there are four sides in a square.

Your corners will start to look like this as you go around...

Once you've pinned all sides your project should look something like this...

Please comment with any questions...tomorrow we will begin sewing.

My Heros

2010-01-28T08:39:00.004-05:00

A few months ago I made these little Super Hero capes for the boys...they have loved them...and I love them!

A Big Day

2010-01-25T10:00:00.011-05:00

My first baby boy turned four this weekend. I can't believe how big he is getting. In the last month he has changed so much, I feel like he has finally gotten through the terrible two and threes and has turned into such a good boy. I have so much fun just talking with him. He is interesting, funny and kind hearted. He loves Mario Cart Wii, Bakugans, Transformers, Super Heroes, Star Wars, Tom & Jerry, Chicken Salad with Wheat Thins, Apple Juice, Dogs, short sleeve shirts, his socks and shoes to be just right, going to Primary, baking cookies, gymnastics, wearing goggles to swim, snuggling, and going on adventures. He said in the car the other day, "I was your first Baby, right?!" Yes you were and you will always be my sweetheart...I love you and the little man you are becoming.

The next few pictures are of his birthday party and the construction of his birthday cake. We had a Father Son Bowling Party and Ben made a Light Saver Cake. He made it out of two cakes that he cut and froze over night. Placed them on a long piece of card board and I made tons of icing for him to dye and decorate with. He used glow sticks to bring it to life and a red disc of chocolate for the button. Max thought it was pretty awesome.

Here is Seth so proud of himself after pushing his first ball down the lane!

After Maxton's party, we hustled down to my parents house to celebrate my Mom's 50th birthday. Dinner was great, we ate a Japanese Steak House. At dinner my folks shared some important news with us...my Dad's company is sending both my parents to China for a year (not returning home at all for the year) on a project. My Dad leaves this Saturday and my Mom will follow once her passport and visa come through, probably the middle of February. It was a bit of a surprise. I think it will be so great for them and a wonderful adventure. Obviously I'm sad that they will just miss seeing our new little baby boy born and his first year, but it will all work out.

Last but not least, here is a belly shot of me...it's current...31 weeks along...this picture is really for my dear friend in the KS...enjoy VMS!

Wholesome and Nutritious

2010-01-11T07:45:00.003-05:00

I might not be the best at it, but I'm pretty domestic. I love anything domestic and lovely. I'm always trying to learn new things and try out recipes or ideas. Since April, I've had an itch to learn how to make Whole Wheat Bread. You know, grind the wheat and everything. I even traded in my Kitchen Aid for a Bosch since most bread recipes are too over powering for the Kitchen Aid. It took me almost a year, and Santa brought me one for Christmas...I was so excited. So naturally, my "one track mind" kicked in and I was on a mission to learn and conquer whole wheat bread...so much so that once figured out, I would make a batch each week for my family in hopes to not buy the bread at the grocery. I had come across three different recipes since April and I wanted to try all three to see which one I liked the best. One came from a great lady in my ward, another from a dear friend in KS and another from Utah. Each recipe was a little different and each one asked for something a little out of the ordinary. I took my kids out in the freezing cold and snow to find such ingredients as: saf-instant yeast, vital gluten flour, 9 grain cracked cereal, hard red wheat, flax seed, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, wheat grinders from friends, 8.5 inch bread pans, etc. I called friends and bugged them like crazy with questions about each and every recipe. Once I had gathered all I needed and more, I settled in on my adventure.
In a matter of four days I had baked 15 loaves of Whole Wheat Bread, trying to perfect and figure out which recipe I liked and that liked me the best. I failed miserably at two of the recipes and did okay with the third, but it still needs a little work.
As each loaf was baked and eventually put in a zip lock, I began wondering if there was more to this bread than just baking it. Was it somehow filling a hole inside of me? All 15 were wholesome and nutritious, was I feeling like I was needing some nurturing, something warm and wonderfully filling?
Regardless, I've made 15 loaves. I've going to stop now and order my own wheat grinder and finally buy some wheat for my food storage and continue trying to make my recipe work...not like a crazy woman, but a little over time.
I guess there could be worse things I could do to fill some of those emotions!?!?

Commercial Break from the Back Tracking...

2010-01-07T14:04:00.002-05:00

I wanted to share a new found treasure with you...I friend of mine makes SLR/DSLR camera straps and sells them on Etsy and I just received mine in the mail this week and love it. I'm not boring, so why should my camera strap be boring. So, if you're ready to show off your personality while taking those amazing pictures...check out her straps (click HERE).

Back Track {Part II}

2009-12-23T08:20:00.006-05:00

So, even though I haven't shared Halloween Pictures this year, we did celebrate and go Trick-or-Treating. And I have pictures to prove it! Ben picked the boys costumes out this year and I thought they were perfect...yes they were little Beavers...I think it fits their current temperment...BUSY, you know, "busy beavers"! I guess there's only one thing to say, "Happy Halloween!"

Back Track {Part I}

2009-12-22T12:30:00.007-05:00

What a busy time of year, personally I enjoy it for the most part. I'm behind on both my blogging and scrapbooking because of all the holiday fun and being pregnant...I'm tired okay! Since things are winding down from all the festivities, I've started back to scrapbooking since I'm about a half a year behind and found some cute pictures I wanted to share. Here is Maxton's first day of preschool...back in September:

Fall Fun

2009-10-26T18:28:00.004-04:00

I know I'm not the best at blogging regularly, but it's not because we are boring and not doing anything around the Hale House. First of all, I've been busy cookin a new little bun...that right, we've got another bun in the oven that should be ready in March...very excited about this news! But lately, me and the boys did our annual apple picking last week. We had the best time, here are a few pictures-

Family Photos

2009-09-09T17:14:00.013-04:00

These were a few family photos a good friend of ours took for us while we were visiting in Utah this summer. Thanks Friend!

Itty Bitty Fun Camp

2009-08-25T15:32:00.006-04:00

I'm going to rewind a little bit...about two months or so...and try to catch you up on what we've done all summer. We started out with an hour and a half day camp for Max that only lasted a week called, "Itty Bitty Fun Camp." They made crafts, played games and sang songs. The first day Max was a little nervous and was wondering if I would be coming in with him...I reassured him that we would walk him in and make sure that things went well. The next day he didn't even want me to get out of the car...."Just drop me off Mom, Okay!!!!!" Were the words coming from the back seat as we drove to Itty Bitty Fun Camp. To be honest I was a little sad and happy all at the same time. I want him to need me, but I also want him to be confident and enjoy those things that he can do as a three year old. This week alone has told me he will be just FINE at preschool in the fall, which someone is anxiously awaiting! On the last day, the parents and siblings were asked to come to see them preform the songs they had learned that week...it was pretty exciting and cute.

Seth Turns TWO!

2009-08-24T20:31:00.009-04:00

This last weekend we were happy to celebrate Seth's 2nd Birthday. He has been such a joy to have in our family. He is such a good little talker and totally affectionate. His actual birthday was Sunday, the 23rd, but we had a little friend party on the Friday before at a Splash Park. On Sunday, my parents and sister came up for Sunday dinner and Cake. Here's a few pictures of the weekend.

Seth playing at the Splash Park...it's so great...the park is fenced in, I don't have to get wet, and the kids can't drown...a great place to relax as a parent and the kids still have a blast!

Here is Seth passing out the cupcakes.

Here's Seth eating his second cupcake

Some of the friends that joined us for the party.

Mickey Mouse Birthday cake I made for Seth on Sunday.

Sweet Brothers

Sweeter Brothers

Seth blowing out his candles. We had to relight a few extra times so that both Max and Seth could have a couple of turns at blowing out the candles....that's the best part of birthday cakes apparently...the FIRE!

Here is Seth sporting two of his favorite presents...boots and sunglasses!

I'm Back!

2009-07-13T23:20:00.003-04:00

We spent the last week in Ben's home town state and had so much fun. It was jam packed with events that I will be sure to do a five paragraph essay on once I get the rest of my pictures down loaded. Luckily, a good friend just emailed me a few pictures, they are of me and the hubby at a wedding of a good family friend. So I'll start with that happy and wonderful event with more of our vaction adventures to follow.

Ben and I...obviously. Don't we looked so relaxed...we were so blessed to have grandma and grandpa Hale watch the boys-Thank you!

Me and one of the other bridesmaids, Jaime...such a sweet heart!

Me photo bombing Jaime and her mother's (Robin) awesome mother/daughter moment. Thanks for letting me be a part of the love ladies!

HaPpY fOuRtH oF jUlY!

2009-07-03T12:52:00.004-04:00

The summer is just flying by, it's hard to believe it's already the 4th! Currently it feels like fall here with high 60 to lower 70 degree weather. Not only is it on the cooler side, it's over cast! I'm not going to complain, it actually feels nice. Since it's so dreary here, I thought I would post something colorful and patriotic looking to celebrate our country and the freedoms we enjoy!

Wish I could take credit for the beautiful pictures, a good friend of mine took these for me along with some cute pictures of my boys (I hope to post some of those soon.) I can take credit for the Jam (strawberry freezer jam)...me and my other good friend put these together the other day to pass out for the 4th.

Sunny Saturday

2009-06-06T20:42:00.003-04:00

I should feel great...We've had a beautiful Sunny Saturday and me and the boys have had a great time together, but I still don't feel like blogging. I'm sure you could already tell by the lack of posts. I don't know what it is....maybe it would be easier if the pictures didn't take so long to upload...or maybe I'm just too full of excuses for my blogging laziness. I do have something very exciting to report, drum roll please...............Ben just finished his 100 mile bike ride and I'm so proud of him. The sad news is that my baby is officially in his big boy bed and loving every minute of it. This is the first time in 3 1/2 years that I haven't had someone sleeping in the crib, however, I'm embracing all the fun that me and the boys are having and what a great summer it's going to be with the two of them. Hopefully their will be some pictures and a few more posts than usual over the next week or so...

Trek 100

2009-05-10T21:36:00.006-04:00

Fat Man on a Little Bike (training for my 100 miler)

Me and my good friends, Steve and Taylor before Trek 2008's ride

Every year the first weekend in June, myself and some good friends do a 100 mile bike ride, called the Trek 100. The purpose of this ride is for raising money and awareness for childhood cancer. "Today, up to 80% of children with cancer can be cured. But cancer still remains the leading disease-related cause of death in children. Help us continue the battle against childhood cancer and related blood disorders during the 20th Anniversary Trek 100 Ride for Hope!" Click here for some childhood cancer facts. I can't imagine one of my boys having cancer or anyone of my loved ones...help me as I raise money for the cause. Please make a donation at my site...click here. My corporation will match up to 300 dollars of your donations.-Ben Hale

Lance Armstong

"We're not in Kansas Anymore Toto"

2009-05-04T20:58:00.012-04:00

Me and the boys made it back home safely...."There's no place like home!" We really had a great time. Valerie is one of those friends that you just pick up where you left off. We spent most of our time in the kitchen....between my boys eating her out of house and home, trying our hardest to keep the kitchen clean with five little ones, and learning new recipes...the whole while talking and laughing about old times, our kids, struggles, and ideas...it was fun! Valerie is one of those friends that makes me want to be a better person...you can't have too many friends like that...thank you! Here are a few pictures of our week:

One of the first places they took us was a this little farm called, Deanna Rose. The boys loved it, they had playgrounds, farm animals, and little tractors the boys good ride.

It was so cute watching how well my little ones responded to some older friends. Max adored Jackson and he was so great to let Max be his shadow.

Another afternoon we took the kids to this rec. center that had open gym time. It was basically a gymnastics gym and they just let the kids have at it. What a great place to get some energy out!

I guess our gymnastics we've been taking this year has paid off...Max hopped right on the beam and handled it like a pro.

I loved Valerie's backyard...it's fenced in...need I say more. They kids had a blast playing in her yard. They even got to watch as Jackson and his Dad shot off a bottle rocket...pretty cool!

I was so excited to learn a few new recipes...like freezer jam! I've already been making several batches since I've been home the last two days to give to friends and neighbors...it's some good stuff!

Last, but certainly not least was getting a pedicure. Valerie's husband was so great to watch all or our children while we stepped out for a bit to be pampered and carry on a conversation without interruptions...thank Jeff...and thanks for sharing your family with me!

Visiting Friends and Family

2009-05-01T09:29:00.003-04:00

I'm comin' to you live from Kansas City! One of the many reasons I love visiting with family and friends is so I can pick their brains. I love to see what other mothers are doing with their children and what their different relationships are like. I learn what works for them and what they love about where they live. I feel so refreshed and come away with all sorts of great ideas and projects I want to do for me and my family. I love for my children to make new friends and have a little change of pace.
On this particular trip I'm visiting with a dear friend, who has three children, 7yrs., 4yrs., 14mos. We are having the best time here with their family. Maxton loves playing with her oldest, he has learned so much about dinosaurs and light sabers. Seth is so great, he always rolls with whatever crowd he's with...a very easy going child.
So (apparently that's how Kansas folk start all their sentences...with the word "so") here is one of the little ideas I've learned from my friend. It's called...COOPERATIVE BABYSITTING! If you click here, it is explained nicely. After reading, comment if you would be interested in starting this up when I get home. I think it would be a great idea!

Rockaby Baby

2009-04-24T09:43:00.005-04:00

Back in March, I was out with my mom one night and left Ben home with our kids. When we got home, Ben was upstairs checking on the sleeping boys, I run upstairs to help since it's so cute to see little ones asleep...it's one of the best times of my day. We checked in on Max and he was snuggled up nicely and then we opened Seth door to find an empty crib...WHAT!?!?

As we searched the dark room for our baby, we found him here:
For the next three nights he continued with this process of being put in his crib by one us and then after a few minutes climbing out of his crib and rocking himself to sleep. After that he stopped climbing out of his crib, almost like it was just a phase and forgot how to do this little trick. About two weeks ago it started up again, and I don't think he will ever stop. He never cries, and he doesn't bang at his door, he just snuggles up and rocks to sleep. I've rocked both of my boys while they were little, sometimes to sleep and sometimes until they were just relaxed...so that's probably why he finds comfort in our well used glider. It's so fun to check on him after he's fallen to sleep because he's always in a different position. After I take his picture, I gently pick up my big baby and put him in his crib.

Somethin' for the little man

2009-04-15T21:18:00.006-04:00

I got to feeling a bit bad that little Seth got left home from the game while Daddy and Max had fun and got their very own post, plus I found some more pictures of Easter so here is a little tribute to our little man.

But we'll start out with a token picture of the big boy and his daddy. This is Maxton and Ben at the neighborhood Easter Egg hunt. It was pretty cold so we left early but not before Max soaked himself in a puddle and had to grab spare pants and boots from a neighbor.

And here's the boy of honor. About the cutest little egg hunter you've ever seen, right? And I must say I'm not looking to shabby either. Those pink pants are smashing. And if you want the name of my hair stylist I'm happy to share. Call me.

We went to another egg hunt at a friends and once Seth got hold of an egg it was all I could do to get him to put it in his bag and hunt for more without stopping to eat the goodies out of each one.

But he found enough to keep him happy and looked pretty dashing doing it. I tell ya, I've got to have the best looking boys around. I mean, the blond hair, eyes like the sea after a storm, you can't beat it. They're like little cherubs.

Alright, I have to fess up: This isn't Tara typing (although I do think Seth's pretty cute). This is her friend. Tara was over at my house today using the computer and tonight when I came to blog I found myself logged in as her . . . the possibilities abound--but I settled on just giving her a late April Fools and owed her these pictures anyway. Enjoy Tara, and I won't steal your blog again.

To the rest of you: I leave you with a last trilogy of Seth--don't get in the way of this boy and his chocolate, hoards it like a chipmunk!

Opening Day

2009-04-14T18:07:00.006-04:00

Last Friday was Opening Day for our Cleveland Indians...Go Tribe! Ben was able to buy two tickets and we thought it would be fun for him and Maxton to go together. I packed a little bag for the boys that contained their Indians blanket (yes, it is still pretty cold here), his glove, and camera. I met Ben at his office and off the two of them went...poor little Seth was stuck with me.

The most amazing thing happened...they caught a foul ball! Well, Ben's shoulder caught the ball and it bounced off his shoulder and the usher picked it up and gave it to Max. It was so cute to hear Max tell his version of the story...he was excited! Here's to a great baseball season and warmer weather!

Easter Eggs

2009-04-10T13:58:00.004-04:00

I'm so excited to report a few things:

1-Easter was in April this year (meaning that our chances for better weather are greater...we've still had snow this month, but not a blizzard)

2-There was no snow on the ground for our hunt

3-This was the first year Max and Seth hunted eggs outside

4-Both of my boys are old enough to hold their own basket and get into the fun

5-There's a ton of chocolate floating around

I hope everyone has a Happy Easter with their family and friends. Here's a few pictures of our attempt at dying eggs with a 1 and 3 year old.

Halethy Quest 2K9

2009-03-26T09:00:00.006-04:00

As you know, or maybe you don't, Ben loves to ride his road bike. He has done two 100 mile rides in Wisconsin and is planning his third for this Summer. He is trying super hard this Spring to drop a few lbs and get into better shape so that his ride will be even better than those past.

Another thing you may or may not know about my little sunshine is that he loves to read every ones blog...daily! At work if his office manager is looking for him in between patients, she knows she can find him in his office listening to ESPN, while reading blogs. He recently told me that he started a blog to record his progress as he prepares for this next 100 miler. He is currently out cycling as I type and I thought I would do a little blog advertising for him with a few pictures I took before he left. I'll be posting his site as soon as he give me the green light.

Thinking of You...always

2009-03-24T07:35:00.004-04:00

Today marks the anniversary of my cousins death...I think of you always, my thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Pay it Forward

2009-03-22T07:40:00.002-04:00

The first 3 people to leave a comment on this post will receive a gift from me during this year.
When and what will be a surprise!
There's a small catch though....Post this same thing on your blog and then come back and leave a comment telling me you're in.
Remember, only the first 3 comments receive the gift.
*Don't forget to post this on your blog first,then come back and leave a comment on this post!*

Back on the Horse

2009-03-20T22:25:00.000-04:00

I check blogs everyday...I know what you're thinking..."no she doesn't, she never comments on my posts!?!?!" I know, I know, I need to do better and I will do better. By the time I read all your blogs, I'm too tired to write something on my own. I'm recommitting to do better, I'm hopping back on the horse, going to give it another go...let's see how it goes. Since it has been awhile, I've posted 4 new things, so keep scrolling down.

Brian Regan - Refrigerators

2009-03-20T22:23:00.001-04:00

We went to see Brian Regan this month...love him! Thanks Debbie and Steve for the tickets. If you ever get the chance to see him take it...you won't be sorry

Brian Regan Doctor

2009-03-20T21:59:00.001-04:00

Another funny bit from Brian

WWF

2009-03-20T21:37:00.009-04:00

My little guys are really starting to play together. Seth has grown so much in the last few months, that he has bridged that small age gap of barely 19 months. One of the things they enjoy doing together is Wrestling. I took about 20 pictures of this particular match, but tried to pick the best to share with our viewers.

My little Prize Fighter-Watch out Hulk Hogan!
Max you are such a good sport!

Valentine's Day Tag-One day late

2009-02-15T23:20:00.004-05:00

My friend Amy Tagged me with this, since I'm late on posting, I won't tag any of you with it...enjoy! If you want to check out her cute blog click here.

♥ How long have you been together? 6 years (5 1/2 married 5 months dating/engaged)

♥ How long did you know each other before you started dating? one week

♥ Who asked who out? Ben

♥ How old are each of you? 28 and 32

♥ Whose siblings do/ did you see the most? My sister since she lives close

♥ Do you have any children together? Two boys

♥ What about pets? none...not till we finish having kids and they're all potty trained

♥ Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple? Determining who loves who the most

♥ Did you go to the same school? nope

♥ Are you from the same home town? nope, we come from different worlds-me from GA and Ben from UT

♥ Who is the smartest? Definitely Ben...he knows a little bit about everything, which is great when talking to people and his patients.

♥ Who is the most sensitive? I'm not sure...we're both a couple of tender people

♥ Where do you eat out most as a couple? Mandarin-Chinese

♥ Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple? St. John

♥ Who has the craziest exes? neither

♥ Who has the worst temper? I have the worst temper...and yes I'm trying to work on that. I've come a long way and it's all because of Ben-he's a great example of love and patients

♥ Who does the cooking? I would say it's half and half...we both love to be in the kitchen

♥ Who is more social? I think Ben and I both suffer from a little social anxiety...you might not tell it in the moment, but right before we freak out a little. I think Ben is a little more social than myself...I do better socially in small groups of one to two.

♥ Who is the neat freak? I am, but when Ben decided to clean he goes all out and does a great job.

♥ Who is the more stubborn? BEN

♥ Who hogs the bed? We have a king size bed so there's enough room for the both of us

♥ Who wakes up earlier? He does for work.

♥ Where was your first date? He took me to the Rodeo and then made me homemade peach cobbler because I'm a GA peach

♥ Who has the bigger family? Ben, he is one of seven

♥ Do you get flowers often? Not really...I have to beg for them

♥ Who is more jealous? Definitely me.

♥ How long did it take to get serious? Not very!

♥ Who does/ did the laundry? I do.

♥ Who’s better with the computer? Ben

♥ Who drives when you are together? He does!

Drum Roll Please

2009-02-15T18:07:00.004-05:00

Drum Roll Please. I would like to announce the winner of the new FlexCare Sonicare tooth brush. For the record, every one's name was only submitted once...it was a fair playing field. The winner is..................Nikki! Congratulations my friend. I'll be dropping that by this week. Happy Valentines Day to all!

Happy Valentines

2009-02-11T08:39:00.004-05:00

I thought thevlast post would promote some question to how my little one lost his tooth at such an early age, but I guess not.
I've decided maybe I've become boring, so let's see what happens if I wave one of these in front of you...that's right folks, I'm going to draw one name out of all my commenter's from this post on February 15th and mail you your prize. I should just draw from my previous post of my three loyal commenter's, but I'll have a HEART this Valentines and give you all another chance. Good Luck!

PS-click on the word "these" to see what the give away is.

Somethings Missing?!?

2009-02-04T21:13:00.005-05:00

There seems to be something missing. It's been gone since the 19th of December. It's about 5-6 cm long and about 3 cm wide. Something very easy to loose I suppose with those dimensions, but most don't loose this for five to six years and it only took my WiLd MaN 16 months. See if this picture can help you figure it out!

Comfort Food

2009-02-02T14:28:00.004-05:00

Here's a yummy easy recipe for dinner. Perfect on a cold winter day when you just want to come to the dinner table in your pj's and eat some comfort food.

Ingredients:
1 stick of butter
1 pkg Italian dressing mix
4 chicken breast
1 block of cream cheese

melt butter in microwave, mix in your Italian dressing pkg and poor over your chicken breasts, which you've already placed in your crock pot. Set your crock pot on high for 4 hours and when it's been about 3 1/2 hours, shred chicken with a fork and knife while still in crock pot and replace the lid.
You decide what carbohydrate you want to serve with it, noodles, rice, etc. I like egg noodles with mine. While I'm boiling the noodles on the stove, I add the block of cream cheese and let it get hot in the crock pot. Once I think it's (the cream cheese) nice a soft, I remove the lid and give it a good stir. I place the noodles in a bowl and pour my chicken and sauce on top. I love it! Give it a try and see what you think. Obviously it's not a meal you want to cook once a week...it's just a little fattening, but you will enjoy it-I hope!?!

*Recipe given to me by a good neighbor*

Happy Happy Birthday Maxton Dear!

2009-01-24T13:37:00.004-05:00

Maxton at 6 days old...this picture I used for his birth announcement

Today is my oldest son's birthday. I can't believe it's been three years since he was born. Maxton is such a sweet boy. He loves to help in the kitchen and in the laundry room, He'll even give me a hand with the vacuum. Max is a very affectionate child and tries hard to be kind to others. Ben and I are so blessed to have him in our family. We are looking forward to all the doors that begin to open once you turn 3, for example: He is starting preschool next year, I just signed him up for gymnastics, swimming lessons this summer, and being able to go the Eagle's Nest at the grocery store (for those that don't know what the eagle's nest is-it's a little daycare type place with all kinds of fun things to do and an employee of the grocery store that watches the children while their parent shop for groceries...pretty exciting stuff!).

A few things I'm not happy about with each new year and that wish could last forever: watching him grow by leaps and bounds right before my eyes, how he calls everyone "he" regardless if they're a boy or girl, his baby skin that he still has thankgoodness, that he enjoys snuggling and wanting to be around Ben and I, all his excitement when he figures something out for the first time, that he likes to sit right in my lap while I read him a story, that he has to have a kiss and a love (hug) before anyone leaves his presences-the list could go on and on, I just need to continue enjoying every moment. Happy Birthday my Sweet Boy!

Last weekend we had a little pre birthday party with Ben's parents who were in town. Max didn't complain...who would if you got to celebrate not only early, but twice!

What do I know?!?

2009-01-13T12:09:00.003-05:00

Me and the boys were just sitting down to lunch when out of the corner of my eye I something walking through the back yard. I ran to the window and yelled for Max, "Come here quick! Look! It's Deer!" Max then replies, "No it's not...it's a Donkey!"
Here's the picture, I'll let ya'll decide...What do I know, I'm just the Mama!

PiCtUrEs!!!

2009-01-11T21:43:00.014-05:00

It's been a LONG time since I posted some pictures. I was having a ton of technical difficuties before the new year with my computer and then this year I've had to wait a bit trying to get all my picture back together, but now I'm finally in a good place right now electronically speaking and so here goes a post chuck full of pictures. We'll call it..."a photo time line/quick way to review the fall and holidays/update on how much the boys have grown/ramdomness" That title should just about cover it?!?

In the middle of Dec. Ben and I took Maxton to Disney on Ice...He had an awesome time since he's been watching Play House Disney instead of PBS

Seth opening up his Christmas Presents from his Grandma and Opa Hale

Max opening up his Christmas Presents from Grandma and Opa Hale

Ben acting goofy and us opening up some presents from his folks...Thanks!!!!!!!

Looking in the awesome box that Grandma and Opa Hale mailed to us for Christmas and Seth & Max wondering wear to start!?!

Max showing off his way cool nutter butter cookie reindeer we made one morning with a couple of his buddies

Here's a picture of my tree...a few posts ago I had a picture of a tree that wasn't mine, because I was having trouble uploading my own pictures

Maxton in his self made Indian outfit in memory of the very first Thanksgiving.

A cute picture of Seth in November, at least cute to his mother.

Ben and the boys all dressed up on the 31st of October getting ready to hit the streets in search of Candy! Max insisted that Ben wear his costume in order to go trick or treating. Ben was the only adult dressed up in our neighborhood...What a good Daddy!

Seth at the zoo in October.

We've had a good couple of months...I have so many more pictures I could share, but I figured this was plenty.

2009

2009-01-01T21:24:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year! I've been thinking a lot about New Years and the whole resolution thing and I think I'm kinda leaning towards my husbands point of view or maybe a hybrid of my beliefs and his. He thinks that you don't need to wait until January 1st to be a better person, you should be setting good goals year round. I agree with that, except I think people do need a nice reminder to help motivate like New Years day. So here's to 2009, lets be a little better starting today, and if you see something worth working on, put it into action and not wait for 2010 (that year was awkward to type).

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T14:29:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas to All! What a great day it's been...a fun morning with the boys opening a few gifts from Santa and Ben and I. A yummy Christmas dinner we were able to enjoy with my parents and Ali, my mom's parents, and my great aunt. It was so nice...the best part for me is that I'm finally able to use my blog effectively. I've got so many things to update on my blog, I can't wait. I've got to get a few things organized on my computer so I can post some pictures. And no, the picture of that christmas tree below is not my tree...I be sure to put a picture of my actually tree in the next post.

It the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2008-12-01T20:09:00.003-05:00

It is officially December even though the Christmas decorations and shopping started up right after the 31st of October in the retail world! I've got my radio set to 102.1...Christmas Music round the clock, my decorations are mostly up, the boys Christmas outfits are ready to go, the snow is falling, and my Christmas cards are ready to be mailed...I'm definitely feeling the Christmas Spirit.

Where's Waldo

2008-11-29T11:10:00.003-05:00

Do any of you know those books, "Where's Waldo"? We had a few of those books when I was growing up and it was so much fun to try to find that little fellow. He was always in a very busy area in the middle of chaos. When you found him, he looked just fine and always had a smile on his face. Think of me as Waldo...I'm here somewhere with a smile on my face. We've had a busy month finishing up Halloween and getting ready for Thanksgiving. In the middle of the two holidays, we've all been sick, I've fed the missionaries at our Stakes zone conference, thrown a bridal shower, celebrated my dad's 50th birthday, finished up my '07 scrapbook, been getting use to a brand new calling in church, and been totally aggravated with my computer...it won't let me sign into my blog! My mother-in-law call me a few days ago to check on me since she enjoys keeping up with us by our blog, I was happy to report that we're all okay, just have had a busy run. I posting this from my mothers house, so I'll be sure to post soon with some pictures of the last month.
I do want to say how thankful I'm am for all my blessings and my sweet family...Happy Thanksgiving!

If you would like to take a peek at the storybook I made for my dad's 50th, click here and follow the instructions.

Trick or Treating

2008-10-26T22:19:00.002-04:00

Now that we've had a chance to enjoy some treats, we will now move to the entertainment portion of my Blogger's Halloween Party! Here's a little comic relief that I hope you will enjoy:

Halloween Party

2008-10-16T11:42:00.009-04:00

I wanted to kick off this fall with a great Blogging Halloween Party! Today starts the party, with blogs full of food and fun till November. Lets start kick things off with some refreshments. Below are a few ghoulish treats I've made this season that you are welcome to feast your EYES on. If there are any recipes that you would like, let me know.
These are miniature candied apples
Here are some Marshmallow Bones for our Blood Red Hot Chocolate
Chocolate Cup Cakes that are so good, they taste more like a brownie and not cake...to die for

Blood Red Chocolate with Marshmallow Bones (I wish I would have had a clear pitcher so to see the hot chocolate better)

Makeover...Laundry Room Edition

2008-10-06T21:01:00.009-04:00

It's that time of year...it's starting to get too cold to do projects outside and on the yard, so Ben and I start looking for indoor home projects. I've been itching to give my laundry room a face lift and we finally took care of it last week. We used a little bead board, paint and hooks and this is how it turned out. Here are some before pictures.

Ben took the original baseboard off first, placed a thicker baseboard down to handle the bead board, put up the bead board, I caulked and spackled, Ben and I painted, and Ben screwed in the hooks. Hear are a few after pictures.

A Challenge

2008-09-24T21:10:00.006-04:00

We are constantly teaching the youth of the church to make those hard moral decisions before they are placed in difficult situations. By doing so, you don't have to think when someone asks you to do something you're not suppose to...the choice has already been made and you just follow through on you previously made decisions.
I put this to practice the fall before I got pregnant with Maxton when it came to all the holiday food and treats. I went a head and made my decisions on what I would and wouldn't eat and I didn't gain those holiday pounds for once and I was so much happier with myself. I've decided to try it again this year, and see how it goes...anyone with me? It's always a little easier if you know others are doing the same and that the one Christmas sugar cookie or slice of pumpkin pie won't be alone...somewhere near or far there are a few more treats in the same boat...all stuck with strong women about to toss them in the trash or let them be ripped to shreds by the garbage disposal! That's my Challenge, any takers?

Apple Picking Time Line

2008-09-24T20:47:00.008-04:00

I think it's funny how we judge time...each of us do it a little different and even more so at different times in our lives. For instance, when I was working full time I judged time by a 6 month interval...x, y, z will happen before I have to clean this persons teeth again. Since kids are my full time job now, apple picking is one of my judgements of time, among other things. As you scroll down, you'll see what I mean...once was one baby boy three years ago, is now two boys that are growing like weeds. (Can I also mention how much I love the fall and picking apples...it's the perfect temperature and the boys have such a fun time.)

Sept 2008
Seth is exactly 13 months old

Sept 2008
Max is 2 1/2 years

Sept 2007
Seth was maybe 2 months old

Sept 2007
Max was 18 months old

Sept 2006
Max was 9 months old

Costco Lovers

2008-09-11T22:21:00.003-04:00

I got my gift certificate for Costco in the mail the other day...really it's the 2% I earn from all the shopping I do during the year with my executive membership...anyways, it was burning a hole in my pocket and I couldn't wait for the 11th to get here because the new coupons kicked in. (Sorry, that was a crazy sentence...totally not sure if it was even close to being grammatically correct) So, we were off to Costco this afternoon with costco money in hand and a fresh set of coupons...honestly, it doesn't get much better than that. We found some great stuff, made our purchases and ended with a nice slice of cheese pizza for dinner before leaving. While we were eating, Ben had said something about Costco and me liking it and I responded with, "I don't like it, I love it!" Several minutes later Ben asks Maxton if he likes Costco and he says with a mouth full of pizza and lemonade, "nope, I love it!" He truly is my child.

A little light reading

2008-09-10T21:40:00.004-04:00

I love to catch the boys doing stuff while I'm not around. Today, the boys had settled in for some light reading. Maxton had pulled "The Miracle of Forgiveness" off the shelf, and Seth was enjoy a John Grisham novel, "Bleachers". They were sitting so quietly together, I had to run and grab the camera...I couldn't have posed them any better. I'm just happy I didn't catch them toilet papering the bathroom this time!

"I'm a Big Kid now!"

2008-08-28T16:49:00.003-04:00

I'm a Big Kid look what I can do

I can wear Big Kid pants too,

And I can pull them up and down!

Mommy Wow.....

I'm a Big Kid now!

(Wasn't this one of the first little jingles for Pull-Ups when they came out?!?)

Yes, my little big kid, Maxton is pretty much potty trained. We started around the second week in August, and things are going pretty well. We also have graduated into the tricycle and helmet. Two things that Max is super excited about these days. Way to go Mr. Max!

Happy Birthday Baby Seth!

2008-08-23T20:24:00.004-04:00

Here's Seth blowing out his candle tonight...well, Max actually blew out the candle!

Today at 11:06 this morning, my sweet baby turned one! It's amazing how long and short the year has gone by. We've been so blessed to have this little guy join our family. It feels like he's always been apart of our family, just like little Max. We love you Baby Seth!

Me and Baby Seth the day he was born!