Braegger Family

Butterfly Effect

2011-03-23T15:34:00.000-07:00

Sparkle's new home in our lemon tree

Chris holding Sparkles

Waiting for him to come out

McKenna and her Sparkles

About 3 weeks ago McKenna was given a caterpillar to take home in it's own little bug house. She had learned at school that it would turn into a butterfly and she had so much fun watching the metamorphosis. We watched the caterpillar eat all of it's food. She would say every day, "He's getting fatter and fatter!" She chided her sister whenever she tried to touch the bug house, "Don't Adeline you'll kill my caterpillar." Eventually he made his cocoon or chrysalis-whichever bug terminology you prefer. It was an exciting day and we waited patiently for the butterfly's arrival. Of course we were in San Diego when the butterfly made his first appearance, but Daddy made sure to take good care of it until we returned. McKenna was entranced and she named him "Sparkles"-her name of choice for just about everything. On Sunday McKenna wanted to release him and we agreed-mostly because I didn't want it to die in it's bug house. She loved watching him but when we opened the cage she was leery. Only Mommy or Daddy could touch it. Sparkles couldn't fly so well-we'll blame it on Adeline. He kept flipping up side down and just couldn't get the hang of it. He even fell in our pool and Daddy had to rescue him twice. We decided to let him live in our lemon tree and we told him goodbye. I hope he is still alive-it was a nice experience Sparkles.

San Diego Madness

2011-03-23T14:48:00.001-07:00

After McKenna's Ballet Recital-Adeline had to wear a tutu as well.

McKenna, her cousin Rylan, and their teacher Ms. Jenny

She loves dance!

First day of pigtails:)

McKenna celebrated Dr. Suess' Birthday at Preschool

Skipping on the beach

Running away from Aunt Jessie

This was as good as we could get.

Love my sisters!

Block Tug of War

McKenna lives for this experience-although I think she is outgrowing Sesame Street

I can never seem to capture a good picture of the two of them.

Adeline wanted nothing to do with Shamu.

Adeline with Aunt Jessie

The Girls and I on our recent San Diego trip during Spring Break-Poor Chris had to work:(

We had fun going to Sea World, and going to the Pacific Beach boardwalk by my sister Rebecca's house. It was stressful I'm not going to lie but we had fun. Does it make me a horrible mother if I hate sleeping in the same room/bed as my children. I didn't have one restful night the entire time-I guess I'm spoiled.

Summer 2010

2010-08-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

McKenna's favorite part about SeaWorld-Elmo and Friends
Adeline with Grandpa Wright
Tradition-We have three years worth now
Waiting so patiently for Shamu
Took these at my Aunt's cabin-wish I had the better camera

Adeline loves this-I think Daddy does too:)
McKenna came out of her bedroom with ensemble put together
Riding a pony at This is Place park in Utah-highlight!!!!
Riding the carousel at Hogle Zoo
Such a sweetheart in her stroller-anytime really.
Thought this was funny since she has a puff stuck on her chin.
First day of preschool-she chose the outfit-oh well.
Being sneaky under the table:)
I can't believe it has been since McKenna's birthday party that I have written in here-so sad, but I am just busier than I used to be. We have almost survived summer here and I cannot wait for Halloween because it is usually at that time that it feels like fall here. We had a great summer with trips to San Diego, St. George, and Ogden but I'm glad that we have been home for a while. McKenna is now in preschool three days a week and loves it and loves her teacher. I miss her while she is gone but I actually have time to get things done while Adeline is taking her nap:) McKenna is one sassy 3 year old and she does not forget anything I or Chris say. It keeps us on our toes that is for sure. The other day I was telling her that I was getting frustrated at her lack of listening skills and she said and I quote, "Mom I don't like your bad attitude." Chris was in the room and started laughing, which made me laugh-what can you do? She told on him the other day saying he wasn't being a good example to her sister- a lot to live up to:) She is very independent and loves to help care for Adeline. She is a great big sister except for the fact that if Adeline has something, McKenna will grab it and then offer Adeline something else. This was all fine and dandy up until a couple of weeks ago when Adeline started screaming when McKenna took something from her. Needless to say McKenna is starting to realize that Adeline is becoming more than just a little baby. I can't believe how fast time has gone but Adeline is almost 10 months old and I feel like she was just born. She is crawling all over and loves pulling herself up to stand. She is going to be walking before I know and I just want her to stay little. Such a change from McKenna who I just wanted to grow up. I think that Adeline will be like McKenna in that she will talk to anyone. She loves waving hi and byebye and will clap her hands when anything exciting is happening or if she is listening to a really great song. She has even started dancing a little to music she likes. I have been busy being the new Primary Secretary in our ward, but it is very rewarding. I like knowing that I have responsibilities away from home and that I have to be organized-trying anyway. It has also given me the opportunity to get to know the children in our ward better and they are just awesome. Chris has been busier for the last two months, he took over the Queen Creek store as the manager. It has been a great blessing to our family, but it hard having him work a little more. Life is good though and I am so thankful for my wonderful family of four:)

Happy Birthday McKenna Part 1-and other stuff too:)

2010-05-17T13:59:00.000-07:00

I DON'T KNOW WHY MY PICTURES ARE ALL OVER THE PLACE BUT THEY ARE-OH WELL

MY STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE

HAPPY GIRL

BATH TIME

WHAT ARE THOSE

SPRING FLOWER

MY BIG 30

EASTER 2010

MCKENNA LOVED THE CHICKS

BIRTHDAY GIRL WITH GRANDMA AND GRANDPA

WITH GREAT GRANDMA

SISTERS

THE FAMILY

PRESENTS

MCKENNA AND RYLAN

MCKENNA WITH REBECCA AND DERREK

MORE PICS...

THREE

TWO

ONE

JUST BORN

I cannot believe that my McKenna is going to officially be three this Sunday-where has the time gone? We had a wonderful family party for her this last Saturday. She was throughly spoiled by everyone and loved every minute of it. Chris made about 15 pizzas-thats right I said made. He has some mad pizza making skills and we enjoyed every variety-my favorites were the bbq chicken and just plain old cheese. We then enjoyed just watching McKenna gasp as she opened every present and then she would look at me and say "Can I open another one?" Her favorite presents by far were her doctor kit and a squishy caterpillar-who would have known? We then enjoyed the best Tinkerbell cake ever(I made it) and some vanilla ice cream. She is going to have a little friend party this Saturday so I will post some pics from that as well.

McKenna is....

A flirt-she is already into kissing and chasing boys

A great big sister-she loves her Adeline (Adelion as McKenna calls her) and frequently climbs into bed with her to make her smile.

A great debater-She can argue just about anything and can manipulate you into changing your mind just by smiling at you.

An elephant-McKenna does not forget anything ever-I think she gets that from me:)

A crack up-She makes me laugh every day either from her stories or her made up songs. She loves to dance and play dress up and take care of all of her animals. Peachy Bear still rules supreme:)

A wonderful daughter-Chris and I are so lucky to be her parents. She is in my opinion the coolest almost 3 year old ever.

Other news...

I turned the big 30 a little over a month ago and my wonderful husband completely surprised me with a party at one of my favorite restaurants Joe's BBQ. It was great to be with family and close friends. He spoiled me rotten that day and I loved it.

Adeline is now 6 months old today!!!! She continues to be one of the happiest babies ever and I love her to pieces. She now has two teeth which is crazy because McKenna didn't have any until about 10 months. She just started on baby food and so far I think her favorite is sweet potatoes. She can roll over from her back to tummy and then she will just chill on her tummy f0rever. She is a content baby whereas McKenna was in a rush to do everything. Adeline is almost sitting up by herself and has really started to grab for everything. She is laughing and cooing and saying her ba's and ma's-she needs to say MAMA first!!!! She is just a joy even with being a little cranky with her teeth. Still no luck with the bottle-I'm kind of just giving up at this point and accepted that I will probably be nursing her for a lot longer.

Grand Adventures

2010-03-13T13:26:00.000-08:00

Sweetheart

Jumperoo!!!

My smiley girl

Helping Mommy with Dinner

We blessed Adeline at home on Super Bowl Sunday-It was great

First real smiles at Daddy 2months old

McKenna with Santa

First bath together as sisters

I can believe it has been a while because having more than one child is hard work-kudos to all of you who have done it or are doing it and making it look easy:) I feel like I am finally getting the hang of things though and coming out of the fog of sleep deprivation that I was in for the first two months of Adeline's life. Thanksgiving and Christmas came and went and now Adeline is almost 4 months and McKenna turns 3 in 2 and 1/2 months. Crazy. Adeline is now sleeping through the night and has been for about a month. It started with eight hours and now she routinely does about 10 1/2 to 11 hours. We are working on her nap schedule and yes when I let her cry for about five minutes before a nap McKenna becomes so concerned about her sister. Adeline has been in her own room for a about a week and she seems to be doing fine. We put together the good old jumperoo last Sunday and she took to it like a fish to water. She is jumping like a pro and loves us to just watch her. She is talking and cooing up a storm and she is just such a smiley sweet baby. Everyone tells me how good of a baby she is and I must agree that Adeline might be the worlds most easy going baby. She really only cries when she is hungry or tired and I hope that her easy going nature continues. McKenna is a wonderful big sister and loves Adeline so much. She is such a sweetheart and I cannot believe that she is almost three. She has adjusted well to not having mommy and daddy all to herself and is Miss Independent when it comes to doing most things. Almost daily she plans an outing whether to the mall or to Daddy's Target or Chick-Filet. Maybe must mean yes to her because when I say maybe to something she'll say that sounds great lets go at 3:00 okay:) We are still working towards becoming potty trained-she just loves her diaper apparently and I'm working towards taking it away-hopefully by this summer. She is still very adventurous and she is riding her bike like a pro and loves all of the older girls in the neighborhood. I feel like I need to be better about writing down all of the conversations she and I have-she is a cutie.

Adeline Marie

2009-11-28T13:54:00.000-08:00

My two girls

With Aunt Angie and Rylan

Adeline with McKenna and Rylan

Our Family

Aunt Jessica with Adeline

Getting ready to come home from the hospital

With Aunt Erica and Uncle Todd

With Uncle Keven

Nana with Adeline

With Papa and Grandma

With Great Grandma Wyand

Right after she was born

Ready for baby

Well she is now 11 days old and I finally have a moment to write about her and how she got her. My experience with labor and delivery this time was night and day compared to McKenna-it was almost easy. I started having contractions on Tuesday the 17th and by noon they were coming every 10 minutes. It was crazy because I had ran errands all that morning and even saw Chris at the pharmacy and sort of gave him a heads up that it might be the real thing. My back was also killing me-another reason why I thought that it might actually be happening. I put McKenna down for her nap and decided to call my mom and let her know that it was time to go to the hospital to be checked out. She came over from work and my neighbor Cheri stayed at my house with McKenna. Well I got to the hospital and my contractions were coming about every 6-7 minutes and I was at 5 cm-so I got to stay. Chris got there about an hour later and my contractions sort of stalled out at every 6 minutes. So I got my epidural and they started me on the lowest dose of pitocin and I before I knew it I was at a 7 and my contractions were coming every 2-3 minutes. My water had broke and I didn't even know it and my doctor thought it could be anywhere from 1/2 hour to a couple more hours. It was 9:40 p.m. at this point and my nurse-who was awesome said she thought it would only be a few more minutes. Well my nurse won out. I called them back in after 10 minutes and my nurse declared that it was time to push. By the time the doctor got all set I was ready and with just two contractions and 6 pushes Adeline made her debut. I was so excited because I actually got to hold her right away(with McKenna I didn't see her for like 10 minutes). I was also very excited because I felt great and alert and couldn't believe that everything had happend so quickly. She was born at 10:02 pm on Tuesday Nov. 17th and she weighed 7 lbs 12 oz and was 20 inches long. She looks similar to McKenna but her hair is a bit darker and she has a different nose-possibly mine. She is such a sweetheart and McKenna just loves to talk to her and is constantly saying how cute she is. I also think that it is adorable that McKenna calls her "Adelion"-she must get that from me because I used to call my sister Erica "America." I just love my two girls so much and I'm so glad that Adeline joined our family:)

Halloween-Full Week of Activities:)

2009-11-06T18:56:00.000-08:00

Chris and I as WalMart.com people for a Halloween Party

We are so proud of this pic-it is going in Adeline's baby book

After Trick or Treating-Love Halloween

Posing with Nana and Papa Braegger

My husband, brother, dad, and Tommy posing before their big debut!(playing at my parent's fall festival:) Yes, I still love my husband in case you are wondering.

McKenna and Rylan getting ready to go trunk or treating at our ward party

McKenna with Aunt Becca at Aunt Erica's school

Posing with Aunt Erica for her school's Halloween Parade

With Great Grandma at the Parade

With Grandma and Grandpa-they are very popular around here. McKenna wants to go to their house every day, several times a day:)

McKenna at the party at the Clubhouse-she was very happy with her Kitty Face

Cutest Boo ever!

Well Halloween was a complete success with McKenna this year-she got to go to way too many parties and her Boo Costume was the cutest thing ever. Every day since Halloween she has been asking to go trick or treating and I have to explain to her that she has to wait till next year. I think having way too much candy has made up for the disappointment. I sort of want to throw some of it away or something because I'm picking at it to-which I should not be doing. Oh well. The pictures sort of explain themselves. Still waiting on Adeline to decide she wants to come and say hello to everyone. Two more weeks:)

Changes...

2009-10-10T14:51:00.001-07:00

Yes she rode by herself and she loved every moment

On the spooky train ride at Schenpf Farm

My face is so puffy here-don't get me started on everywhere else:)

Riding the Bees with Grandma

Riding the airplane with Aunt Jessica

Don't tell them I stole a pumpkin:)

After the lady showed her the pumpkin in the mirror she asked her to paint her other cheek too-

We have been going through so much here in anticipation for our new arrival and McKenna has had to conquer some pretty major stuff. We officially put her in her new bed a couple of weeks ago and she has really taken to it. Her crib is now in Adeline's room along with a lot of other things that used to be hers. It is crazy that in weeks we will be adding another daughter to our family. I am so excited. We have been enjoying the great weather by doing lots of things outside even though I am officially waddling around-oh well. We took McKenna to the zoo last week and it was a lot of fun because she was good the entire time:) We also went with my mom, sister, and brother to Schnepf Farms a few days ago and it was so much fun. I would recommend going early if you are going to go because it was so nice not having to wait in line for the rides. McKenna has already asked to go back and I have told her that we won't be going again for a long time. McKenna is super excited for Halloween this year and even more excited that Nana(Chris' wonderful mother Janet) is going to make her costume. Why would she need a costume made you ask? Well she loves the movie Monster Inc. and especially loves the character Boo. Of course whenever you would ask her what she wanted to be she would say Boo. The Boo costumes on Ebay are like 100.00 dollars so Janet is doing me a huge favor and we're going to attempt to make one. In fact, we are going over there in a little while for a fitting and to buy fabric because as many of you may know I am not crafty and cannot sew worth anything. (My mom will tell you otherwise but I know my own abilities) McKenna has also started riding her tricycle all over the place and it is crazy because it was like all of the sudden she started peddling. Now she rides to the park and back almost every day-I still can't believe she is almost 2 and 1/2 time flies:) Oh and just a little side note. She will no longer let us say the prayer-she has to say it and she does a pretty good job too-Miss Independent.

Seven Years:)

2009-09-17T14:45:00.000-07:00

On the way up to the top of the mountain

Proof about the whole toilet thing-we are big dorks and we know it:)

We were literally in the clouds

A few weekends ago Chris and I were able to go up to Flagstaff and celebrate our seven year anniversary. It is crazy that it has been that long because it seems like yesterday we were newly married and living in our little shanty apartment. He is still my perfect match and I am so lucky to be linked with him forever. When we arrived Chris was feeling nostalgic so we visited NAU and walked around and I got to see where some of his old classes were. That night we also went up to the Lowell Observatory which was interesting if you like space(the film they showed made me want to take a nap). But, we did get to see Jupiter through the telescope which was impressive. The next day we went up to Snowbowl and did the Skyride and at the top of the mountain I used Arizona's highest toilet-impressive I know. We actually got rained on the way down and right before we got off it started to hail. It was crazy because at home it was like 102 degrees and in Flagstaff it was like 60 with hail-it felt really nice. Later that day we both got massages which was so nice especially with being pregnant. To top it all off we saw Julie and Julia that night which means that Chris really does love me:) Of course I saw one of his movies the next day. It was a glorious little vacation and I'm so thankful for my parents for watching McKenna for us. She of course had so much fun with everyone but was excited to see us when we got home. Probably the last time we will have a vacation to ourselves for a while, so I cherished every moment of it:)

Summertime

2009-08-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

Very cool ensemble

Great Grandpa Braegger's Crazy Birds

Playdate with Avery at the Lagoon

Rylan and McKenna having fun with dress up

Putting all of her animals night night with blankets:)

Happy Birthday Grandma!

I haven't been very good at updating my blog lately. I don't really know why just caught up in life I guess. I have had so much fun this summer with McKenna but I will admit that I am looking forward to being able to venture outside again:) I signed McKenna up for a messy art class this summer which she loved and a dance class which she had a love hate relationship with. Both were offered through the town and were pretty decent for the price. We also have had the opportunity to swim a lot. McKenna finally decided that she would wear her floaties and she has developed a new sense of confidence in the pool. Of course, now she thinks that she can swim, but we will continue to work with her. McKenna's beloved pacifier was taken away about a month and a half ago and she did really well. Only whined a little bit and now when she sees that a baby has one she will insist that the baby needs it. (Next step-toddler bed in about a month and then potty training-any tips would be greatly appreciated:) We are singing a lot these days, especially, Old McDonald and Wheels on the Bus. It is amazing how fast kids develop and grow everyday. I am still enjoying my time working with the YW-I will be very sad when I am released because it is seriously been such a joy to work with the amazing girls in my ward. My pregnancy has continued to go well-starting to realize we don't have too much time left and it is both exciting and nerve racking. We have an ultrasound next week which is always fun and reassuring at the same time. Chris and I will be celebrating our 7 year anniversary on Sept. 6th and it feels sort of surreal. It dosen't really feel like it has been that long and I still feel so lucky and blessed to be with him. (Good thing:) He is wonderful and he is even ready to be surrounded yet again by another girl-

Solana Beach 2009

2009-07-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

Smiling with Elmo and Zoey

Last night we were there-beautiful

Posing with Papa and Grandma

One of my favorite pics-so cheesy

With Aunt Erica and Avery

Aunt Becca had just spoiled her with ice cream

I look really pregnant here:)

Same cheesy grins

Posing with Daddy

The tigers are sleeping. They go night night

This was at the wild animal park-it was cut off

My pretty butterfly

At the 3-d Sesame Show at Sea World-she loved it:)

Being goofy with Papa waiting for a 10 dollar hamburger

I see Bruce-every shark was Bruce from Finding Nemo:)

We recently just got back from our week long vacation near San Diego and it was heaven. The weather was perfect and we had a wonderful time seeing and spending time with our family. Chris and I kept busy though taking McKenna to Sea World, the zoo, and the wild animal park. It was great being able to be outside and active since I feel like we have been hibernating at home. McKenna loved Sea World. She loved all of the animals, especially Shamu or Hamu as she lovingly called him. She actually took a nap in her stroller while we were there and it was great because when she woke up it was time to go and see Elmo and she literally freaked out. She ran away from us and kept going back to him and finally when I told her it was time to leave she told me no, I seeing Elmo. I had to send Aunt Jessie in to carry her out. The wild animal park was kind of a disappointment. Too much walking and not enough to peak any interest. We did go on the tram through the safari and that was the highlight of the day. The San Diego Zoo was beautiful and the animals did not disappoint. We were able to see three tigers huddled together sleeping-one of the cutest things I have ever seen. A panda was out and about eating bamboo and it's funny because when you ask McKenna what a panda bear says she will say "hiya" (from Kung Fu Panda for those of you that don't know:). McKenna was really looking forward to seeing the hippo but it wasn't cooperating but the polar bear made up for it. He was right up at the glass playing with a ball and McKenna just chased him up and down the glass following him-it was pretty neato. The beach there was cold. Chris got in the last day there I just got in to my knees. McKenna I think was trying to make sense of it and she decided that it was okay on the last day to get in and then run away. Also, some big news as many of you know McKenna could care less about smiling for a picture. But, on this trip for some reason she started to care and we have some great pics of her showing her pearly whites:) We were sad to come home especially when we drove through Yuma and it was 110 but I think we are acclimated now. My ankles did swell a little on the ride home but I think it was lack of movement and the sudden surge in temp. So far this pregnancy has been great and it was weird because yesterday I passed the half way mark-only 20 weeks to go until we meet little girl #2:)

2009-06-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

Well Chris and I found out that we are having a girl and I could not be any happier. Here a few of my ultrasound pics- my favorite is when she has her pinky up to her mouth. I think she is going to look like McKenna but maybe with darker hair-we will see. On Saturday I will be 20 weeks and officially at the half way mark. Crazy how fast it has all gone by. Chris was able to feel her the other day and that was fun for both of us since I have felt her for so long and now he can share in the experience. I am so happy that McKenna is going to have a sister and hopefully she will be as close to her as I am to my own sisters. I was also very excited that I won't need to buy much of anything for little girl since she will get all of her older sister's hand me downs. Now Chris and I are considering names and we are just so excited:)

Minnie Party and Party Hats

2009-05-27T15:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Girl!

Blow Blow

Kicking in the Water

I got it

Babba Babba Umbrella

Puzzles from Aunt Rebecca and Uncle Derrek

New Big Girl Bed from Nana and Papa Braegger-we won't use this until we need to:)

I need googles

Minnie and Mickey

Well McKenna turned two this past Saturday and she was so excited for the day to actually get here. Everyday this last week she would wake up and ask Party? She chose Minnie decor for her party so everything turned into a Minnie Party. She busted out the party hats a few days before hand and wore them for longer than what she did on her actual birthday. Chris and I made the cakes- a Minnie and Mickey cake and I think they turned out super cute. Not bad for two novice cake makers. McKenna was super spoiled by all of our family and she was so serious when she was opening her presents. All she kept telling me was I do it until she got to her Elmo live and then she only wanted to see that. Another popular gift was a Yo Gabba Gabba umbrella from Grandma and Papa Wright-she is obsessed with it. From that point on she could have cared less about the other presents and then she proceeded to tell me mommy do it. -Gotta love it- She enjoyed blowing out the candles and then told me over and over yummy cake and icecream-she ofcourse asked for more. I wonder where she gets her sweet tooth? I can't believe she is two it has gone by so fast. She has become so independent and it is fun to actually have a conversation with her. It is hard to think about life without her. She told me the other day after I got her some cheese Thank you Mommy Love you and I almost started to cry-she is the best and I am so lucky to be her mommy.

Guess What... I'm Pregnant:)

2009-05-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

It has been really hard not to share the news for so long but I am finally far enough along where I feel okay to share the news. We are going to be adding to our family on Nov. 21 and we could not be more excited. McKenna insists that the baby is a sister and Chris and I kind of feel the same way. Not that I would be disappointed if we had a boy, I just feel like we are having another girl. So far things are going well and we should find out in about a month what we are having. Pics are not very clear but you get the idea.

Easter Egg Hunts, Easter, and a Wedding:)

2009-04-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

I decided to group all of the Easter Egg Hunts that McKenna did together since she did three. The first was with our community and it was a disappointment. Why you ask? Well it was highly unorganized for one and they used leftover Halloween decor for all of the kids three and under. So McKenna was the grand recipient of a spider, a pirate eye patch, a few gold coins etc... you get the idea. She did freak out when she saw the Easter Bunny not in a scared way either. She was yelling "Bunny" at the top of her lungs when her turn was over and Chris had to go and stand with her on a grassy knoll far away to get her to stop crying. I felt bad for Rylan, Katie, and Kellen sorry again for the let down.

The next hunt was in my Grandma's ward and it was great except for the fact that it was raining that morning and cold. After breakfast they organized the kids for the hunt and my mom made the mistake of giving McKenna the umbrella to hold by herself. After that she could care less about the eggs it was all about the umbrella and getting it back. I didn't even know she could say umbrella but it was in her vocabulary:) We took a family pic and of course she is being a stinker and shouting for the umbrella. On the walk back inside she would cover herself in it and we would say Where's McKenna and she would pop out and say Here you are-still working on it:

On actual Easter I was so excited to go to church and McKenna woke up at 6 am which is very early for her. I went and got her out of bed and she was burning up, well she had a 102 fever. So Chris and I were going to split up church. Well later in the day I started to feel awful and it all went down hill from there. We went over to my mom's house for dinner and McKenna was not wanting any attention and once she found an egg with skittles in it-she was done. We tried to do a hunt at our house and make it exciting-she just didn't care. Luckily, her fever broke the next day and it seemed to be the only thing making her cranky.

Finally-Sorry this is a long one:) We went to a wedding reception this past weekend and McKenna had her dress picked out and was all ready by the time daddy got home from work. Chris loved the way I did her hair and I must say it did look cute-especially since if you know me you know I can't fix hair. So we took some pics before the reception and I think that they will be her substitute Easter pics:) At the reception there was dancing and McKenna was a boogie baby. She kept telling us dance and then she would run over to the floor and run around and dance with older kids. She is such a sweetheart:)

29 at the Happiest Place on Earth

2009-04-12T21:40:00.000-07:00

Tigger-She was jumping for him and then chased him around. She just called him tiger though.

Her Minmie hat

Pooh-Need I say more

Hi Ooffy-This is what McKenna told Goofy

Happy 29th to me! We ate at the Blue Bayou that evening-holy expensive, but worth it once I think.

She started swining like a monkey on the bars while we waited in lines.

Minnie was her favorite and I asked McKenna what she was going to tell Minnie and she said "cheese."

Riding the merry-go-round(She rode this ride the most:)

First day there-

As some of you may know my husband spoiled me and took our family to Disneyland for my birthday. We had so much fun together and it was nice because we had the 3 day park hopper and got to take our time doing the rides and shows. This year Disneyland is giving you free admission on your birthday, but since we already had tickets they basically gave me a gift card worth the amount of the ticket. It paid for a Minnie hat for McKenna, Bolt, and some pics of the family. McKenna was in heaven with all of the characters. Characters that she had never seen or heard of before were given big bear hugs. By far her favorites were Minnie or as she calls her Minmie and Pooh. Those were the two that she freaked out about the most and also hugged and talked to the longest. She enjoyed all of the rides but her faves were the choo choo, merry-go-round, and the Finding Nemo Voyage. We stayed at a hotel within walking distance and made sure that she stayed on schedule with her naps which was nice because we basically took a nap everyday too. The walk back and forth got a little tiring but it was better than paying for parking everyday. It has always been like a thing for me to take my kids to Disneyland and I just loved seeing her react to everything. I have always loved Disneyland and it was so fulfilling being there with my own daughter and seeing how excited she got over the characters and the parades. It was a dream come true-cheesy, but true.

Elmo Madness

2009-03-31T12:10:00.000-07:00

This past weekend at my parent's credit union they had Elmo and Clifford there and then treats for all of the kiddos. I knew McKenna would love to go because she loves Elmo. Whenever Sesame Street is being watched she will beg for Elmo-she loves that big furry red monster. So when we pulled into the parking lot I told her to look and see who it was. (I hadn't told her who we were going to see.) All the sudden "Elmo" is being screamed in the car. I had my little sister Jessie with me so she got McKenna out and was dragged by McKenna to Elmo. Now understand that McKenna pushed her way through tons of kids that were terrified to get too close and she immedietly gave Elmo the biggest bear hug. Then she ran over to Clifford and said "Hi Doggy." It went on like this for about five minutes and then we went inside to get some treats. Inside McKenna was trying to get back outside to beloved Elmo so we went back out for some more fun. Needless to say McKenna was in heaven and she reluctantly told Elmo and Doggy "Bye-Bye."

Chris-Chris

2009-03-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

I have decided that I need to start blogging about the funny things that McKenna is doing right now because I will not remember them in the future I am sure. The other day I was calling for Chris because he was outside and I said his name like 3 times. He was not out front so I went in the backyard to look for him. McKenna was with me the whole time of course and before I could say his name out back McKenna started yelling out "Chris" "Chris." It was so funny and she did it again today. When she found him it was followed by a very excited "Hi Daddy." I seriously need to get if captured on film because it was so funny. Also today we were out the park and the kids from the neighborhood kept getting popsicles and ice cream cups from a neighbor girl. Well McKenna started saying "opsicle." A neighbor boy was nice enough to go and get her one and she thought it was the best thing ever. I wish I had my camera with me because it was one of those red,white and blue bullet pops and she was filthy. Her hand and shirt was covered in a sticky blue substance and she just kept pointing to the red part and saying red and then pointing to the blue part and saying blue. She was the filthiest she has ever been-apparently I don't let her get dirty enough, although, I am sure that will be changing since she has to have her shoes off at the park all of the time now. I don't know what we are going to do this summer when it is so hot because she begs to go outside:(

Beautiful Arizona Weather

2009-02-25T12:34:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged in a while, I don't really know why but we have just been living life I guess. It has been so beautiful outside lately and we have had tons of fun playing at various parks. McKenna has a new obsession with playing in the sand which is funny because she hated it a month ago. She will literally pick up sand with a cup and empty it in a bucket and she thinks it is the greatest thing ever. She is so funny and she is starting to talk a whole lot more and it is definitly becoming easier to understand what it is she is saying. She is such a doll, wanting to help me when I cook, helping to pick up her toys, becoming more and more obsessed with Yo Gabba Gabba and Elmo:) Which by the way are great shows if you don't watch them. Life is good for me too. I love my calling in YW. I sort of feel like I'm lucky enough to go back and relive my YW days all over again. I think I may even want to go for my recognition award all over again too. We'll see. I was so overwhelmed at first but now I just love every aspect of it and feel truly blessed to be a part of their lives. Hopefully the girls don't think I'm too crazy. I did get a little riled up at volleyball last night:)

Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T12:53:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year. We celebrated Christmas Eve with the Braegger's over at our house and laughed a lot as McKenna and Rylan played with their gifts. On Christmas morning we had my family over for breakfast and then we watched McKenna open up her gifts. She was so funny because she still wouldn't tear into the gifts but delicately take off the wrapping paper. She was so spoiled by everyone and has had so much fun playing with her new toys. In the afternoon we went over to my parent's house and had Christmas Dinner and then enjoyed just spending time together as a family. I am so thankful that we have family that lives so close and for the wonderful influence they are in my life. I always cherish celebrating the Christmas Season with my family and loved ones.

Zoo

2008-12-30T12:25:00.000-08:00

We had the opportunity to go to the zoo last week and we had so much fun. Grandma Wyand was nice enough to get us in for free with her membership and McKenna had so much fun. I would say her favorite animal was the baboons. She ran up and started making monkey sounds and would tell them "hi." She also loved the kids play area and brushing the goats. Which by the way were the most docile goats ever, they just laid there while McKenna brushed them and gave them hugs. She of course had to go on the carousel and laughed and waved to everyone the whole time, especially my brother Jacob. She wanted to hold his hand half the time and even cuddled with him in the monkey enclosure-she loved Uncle Jacob:)

New Family Pics

2008-12-08T11:36:00.000-08:00

Last week we ventured out to the Mesa Arts Center to have our pictures done with my sister in laws family. It was a fun time if you consider that McKenna wanted nothing to do with any of it and Chris was annoyed because the photographer wouldn't tell us when she was going to take the picture. She definitly went more for the random shots. There were a few that I liked out of probably 200 photos and she did make us a beautiful Christmas Card. I don't know if they would have turned out better under other circumstances-McKenna could just care less about pictures right now.

Catch Up

2008-12-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe that we are in December already. I feel bad that I have not posted anything in a while especially about our wonderful Thanksgiving week. My Grandpa Wright was here for about 2 weeks visiting from Colorado so it was great to have him here in town. McKenna towards the end of his trip would wave at him and we did get her to give him a kiss goodbye which was a start. The day before Thanksgiving we went with my family to Zoo Lights and McKenna had so much fun. I think her favorite thing of all was riding the carousel. She loved it! She waved at everyone and gave hugs and kisses to her tiger and leopard-she is obsessed with all things animal and loves them sometimes a little to much:) We had an amazing Thanksgiving lunch at my in-laws and it was fun to see everyone there and then we went for dinner at my parents. Throughout the day I just kept thinking how lucky I am to have such an amazing family. Moving on to other business-McKenna started nursery officially about 3 weeks ago and has stayed by herself the last 2 weeks. It was weird going to Sunday School and actually being able to listen-it was way too easy. I'm enjoying my new calling in YW -I'm just so impressed by the young women in our ward-they are all truly special. We got our tree up and McKenna helped with the decorating until she found a reindeer and bear stuffed animal in our Christmas Stuff after that she tended to them only. Last night McKenna, Jessie, and I went to our ward Christmas Party. (Chris had to work of course). It was an evening in Bethlehem so everyone dressed in biblical attire. I just wore my bathrobe but I didn't have anything for McKenna so I took one of my old t-shirts and and cut it into a beautiful hot pink robe. She liked it even better by adding her necklace and Elmo sticker. We had fun and McKenna actually was pretty chill I think because she was so tired and she has had a sinus infection for the last week. She has to be on antibiotics for 20 days-crazy. I think she is finally starting to feel better though:)

Twilight

2008-11-24T11:05:00.000-08:00

Was the movie as good as the book...No of course not. However, I still loved every moment of it. Sure there were a few cheesy parts but some parts in the book were cheesy too. Vampire Baseball-need I say more. I am so happy that they just announced that they are going to make New Moon and hopefully they will spend more time on it knowing that it will make money. I was able to see it on Friday night with my two sisters and it was so much fun because we all love the books. The only sad thing is that I will have to find some other book to obsess over until New Moon will be made.

High School Reunion

2008-11-10T12:54:00.000-08:00

It was a crazy weekend seeing some people that I haven't seen in 10 years. That's right it was my ten year high school reunion. It was great to see everyone and I thought that most people looked exactly the same if not better than what they looked in high school. The reunion itself was held at Chase Ball Field in an upper level sports lounge and it was a great venue for the event. There was dinner a little entertainment and some great conversations. The only thing I was surprised about was the lack of people. We had like 550 in our graduating class and only 120 people were there. Hopefully more will make it out to the 20th! Oh and thanks to Tommy for keeping Chris occupied with some awesome picture taking:)

High Heeled Shoes

2008-11-10T12:48:00.000-08:00

I heard this clomp clomp sound coming from the hallway a couple of days ago and this is what I found. McKenna has been obsessed with shoes for quite some time and now she likes to wear mine all over the house. I must admit that she walks pretty well in shoes that are way too big for her:)

Halloween 2008

2008-11-04T07:42:00.000-08:00

I was so excited that McKenna actually wore her costume because a couple of months ago she cried when I put it on her. She thought she was so big this year holding her Elmo bucket and going trick or treating with her cousin Rylan. We went around two streets in our neighborhood and that was more than plenty since it took us almost an hour to go that far. Nana and Grandpa Braegger came over to and it was nice of them to hand out candy so Chris could come with Angie and I. The night ended sort of badly when McKenna opened a glow in the dark necklace and got some of that goo in her eye. We had to flush her eye which got her face wet which she is not a huge fan of so it was sad, but we got it all out and she was fine.

Fun on the Farm

2008-10-29T19:13:00.000-07:00

For some reason I love pumpkin patches and everything that comes with it. I think it is because growing up we would always go to a pumpkin patch in California near my great grandparents house and I have so many fond memories of it. Once we moved to Arizona we went to one up north in Dewey for a few years and more recently I was introduced to Schnepf Farms. We ventured there with my sister in law Angie, my mother in law Janet and cousin Rylan and had so much fun. (For about three hours and then the girls were done:) We went on the hayride, rode the merry-go-round, fed some sheep, and went on the little train that they had there. McKenna loved the rides and Chris and I both took turns taking her on each one. She also loved the animals in the petting zoo, especially the goats. I don't think I have ever heard her laugh so hard. She also gave the sheep some food and then proceeded to hug them afterward. It is great to see her having these experiences even if she will not remember them. I guess that's why we write about this sort of stuff-

Cruise

2008-10-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

Chris and I just got back yesterday from our wonderful vacation. McKenna did great with my parents and we had a marvelous time on our cruise. We did the four day from Long Beach that has ports in Catalina and Ensenada. Catalina was beautiful as always and we took a semi-submersible sub around the cove. We saw some pretty fish and best of all we didn't have to get wet. Ensenada is pretty much how I remember it-ugly and dirty. We took a bus to see the not so great blowhole and did some shopping in the local flea market. Then we had our guide drop us off on the beach and we rode horses for about an hour. Horseback riding is hard work- Chris and I loved our little vacation but by Thursday I was really missing McKenna, so the cruise was the perfect length. On Friday we got to take my dad out to breakfast in California before heading up to Vegas for my cousin Mallory's wedding. When we saw McKenna she reached up to me and I picked her up and she held my face in her hands and just stared at me-it was cute:) She wasn't really mad at us but she was a little unsure of the situation. After an hour though she was her old self. Friday night Chris and I went to see the new Criss Angel Cirque Show at the Luxor-don't waste your money. The show had a few highlights, but mostly it was just so-so with Criss Angel talking way too much. Saturday was the big day for Mallory and Josh and their wedding was gorgeous. I'm sad though because I don't know when I will see her next because they will be living in England-he is from there. McKenna was exhausted by the time the reception started and since Chris was the DJ I had little miss all to myself. By the end I just gave up and let her have her pacifier-bad I know. We had a wonderful time but home sure is nice too.

So Much Fun

2008-10-10T11:32:00.000-07:00

McKenna and I have been having so much fun in parent-tot class we have been taking. She loves the climbing, balancing, music, playing etc... The only thing she is not too fond of is the parachute. Each week when the teacher gets it out she looks at me and shakes her head no and runs away. This last week though she helped me hold it while the other kids ran underneath it and she laughed-it was progress anyway. She recently formed the habit of carrying one of my purses around the house and she likes to take it with her in the car, it is the cutest watching her grow into a little girl. She now loves to wear shoes all the time even in the house and will attempt to put them on by herself. Like mommy all the way there:) She is just at such a fun age right now-talking jibberjab, being affectionate, running everywhere. Hopefully she will do okay when Chris and I leave on Monday for the cruise-I'm sure with Aunt Jessie there she will be okay. I'm already thinking how sad it will be to leave her, and to think that I wanted to take a week long cruise. It will be a much needed vacation for Chris and I though so hopefully everything goes smoothly.

Six Year Anniversary

2008-09-09T10:47:00.001-07:00

On Saturday Chris and I celebrated our six year wedding anniversary. I still can't believe it. We had a wonderful day that started off with me getting flowers and a wonderful card. I surprised Chris later that afternoon with a reflexology massage from a new place that just opened up by our house. WE both loved the massage and it was a wonderul surprise for Chris. After that we went to dinner at Texas Road House-which was excellent-we had never been there before. The rolls alone are worth going for. Then we went to see Kung FU Panda at the dollar theatre. I know it was a weird choice but there really wasn't anything playing elsewhere that we wanted to see. It was a great day, but really everyday with Chris is. He is for me the most handsome, adoring, caring, loving, talented man that I know. Which makes me pretty lucky since I am married to him.

Summer Days...

2008-08-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

I have not written in so long. We haven't really been up to anything that exciting and blogworthy but we have been keeping busy this summer. McKenna took swim lessons for about a month with a wonderful lady that withstood her crying and screaming. I will say that now McKenna is a lot more comfortable with water and she seems to understand the basic concepts of swimming. She has yet to put all of those concepts together but I am working with her now in our pool and she is becoming more confident every day. McKenna has also discovered that she loves climbing on everything and anything that she can and I think her favorite place is the toddler zone at our nearby McDonald's. She has like 5 teeth coming in so she is Miss Cranky right now and also she has become so picky, so if anyone has good advice on how to go about feeding a picky 15 month old let me know:) Chris has been keeping busy at work and we enjoyed watching the Olympics these last few weeks. We are more determined than ever to have McKenna be a volleyball star:) I have just finished reading Breaking Dawn for a second time and loved it even more than the first. I have also noticed that I have a lot of projects that I started and have left unfinished so I need to get a move on. Excited for the upcoming holidays and for the weather to change. McKenna loves her Halloween costume and can't wait to go trick or treating! I guess that is about it, a pretty normal life, but a happy one too.

Chris Turned 30!!

2008-07-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

Chris turned 30 last Thursday and he had to work, so we planned on celebrating his birthday on Friday. We went to lunch at Joe's and then Jacob and Jessie babysat while Chris and I went to see a movie. What Chris did not know was that there would be a surprise waiting for him when we got home. I planned a semi-small surprise party for him and he had no idea. There were about 30 people there and that was just family, and a few close friends. Thanks to everyone for coming:) We had a great time with everyone and enjoyed many a chimi from Nando's(Chris and I are still eating the leftovers). I feel so lucky to be married to such a wonderful person and I loved throwing this party for him. Even though he is 30 I am the one with the gray hairs-go figure.

Pig Tails

2008-07-04T16:11:00.001-07:00

Jeni suggested that I try putting McKenna's hair into pigtails. I still had to use a clip on the front to keep her super long bangs out of her eyes. Not perfectly even but perfectly adorable.

Family Vacations

2008-07-04T15:35:00.000-07:00

We just got back from San Diego yesterday and we had so much fun. I was hesitant to leave the perfect 75 degree weather and I should have just stayed there. We practically melted in Yuma where we stopped for lunch, but we somehow made it home in one piece. Now I have a mountain of laundry and a huge pile of dog hair in every corner (thanks Badger). I am happy to be home and I think McKenna was happy to be in her own bed last night too. We took McKenna to the beach while we were there and she loved it. We would ask her where the water was and she would practically run to small waves and let the sand cover her feet. She wasn't too fond of the dry sand but she got accustomed to it after a while. Get this she even fell asleep in Chris' arms. This is a big deal because if you know McKenna she is not big on cuddling or being held for very long. She slept for an hour and Chris and I loved every minute of it. It was so great to be there with all of my side of the family for our reunion. McKenna got to hang out with her second cousin Avery and they played pretty well, mainly taking McKenna's cup away from the other one. This cycle repeated many times. We all went to Sea World and the highlight of the day was McKenna getting to see Telly and Grover from Sesame Street. We got in line for pictures and Chris and I both thought that she would be scared to death. But it was the complete opposite. She loved them. She was giving them hugs and posing for some very cute pictures. She cried when she could no longer hug on them and we distracted her by taking her to the play area. It was so darling. Chris and I also got to go to Houston a couple of weeks ago to see my cousin get married. It was an unofficial family reunion on my dad's side of the family. We had so much fun and McKenna loved being the center of attention. During the rehearsal dinner in the cultural hall she just walked around waving, clapping, and dancing-she was in Heaven. She is getting so big... I just signed her up for the parent tot swim class and it starts on Monday. Hopefully it is not a complete waist of time. Breaking Dawn comes out in a month I am so excited:)

The Host

2008-06-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading Stephanie Meyer's new novel The Host and it was so wonderful. If you have not read it yet I highly recommend it. I was a little bit leary at first because I was mad at her for putting this out before Breaking Dawn, but I liked it just as much as the Twilight series. For a science fiction novel it was very well written and kept my interest. The characters were interesting and I loved the ending. So if you are need of a great book to read I would get this one.

Happy Birthday McKenna

2008-05-27T15:08:00.001-07:00

We celebrated McKenna's first birthday last week! I cannot believe that she is officially a toddler. She is walking all over the place, I think she may even start running soon, which scares me to death. She had such a great birthday party and she was completley spoiled by everyone. She has more toys than she knows what to do with. She also had her cousin Rylan and her second cousin Avery there too, so she had a lot of fun with them. At first she didn't know what to do with the cake she sort of licked frosting off of her fingers. It didn't take long however to figure out that cake is yummy and she devoured her whole piece. The next couple of days were spent going to my cousin's highschool graduation and spending time with family that came in from out of town. She had to have her shots today so hopefully she won't get to cranky. She has been so personable lately. She waves at everyone, loves to clap, and she is learning how to play peek a boo and blow kisses. She says dada, yum, all done, mama(on rare occasion) and her favorite word to say is du-short for duck which she happens to be obsessed with. Happy Birthday to my little girl!!!!

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-05-27T15:07:00.001-07:00

Best Friends

2008-04-29T16:00:00.001-07:00

Recently I have been thinking about how lucky McKenna is to have a cousin that lives so close and that is three weeks older than her. I hope that Rylan and McKenna will always be there for one another and always be the best of friends. These are some recent pics of the two playing at our house. They are so cute:) Also, incase you were wondering McKenna is doing a wonderful impersoniation of Popeye. She just came up with it all by herself.

I am finally free:)

2008-04-28T16:18:00.001-07:00

McKenna has been weaned for the last two days and she finally drank more than an ounce of formula from her sippy cup. (It's the little things that get me all excited) I love sippy cups. Also, little girl has decided that she wants to give walking a try. She will stand for a minute or two and then take a couple wobbly steps. Still in the developmental phase but I'm sure she will master it soon with flying colors. I can't believe that she is almost 1, this year has gone by so fast. Hope everyone is doing well and have a fantastic day.

The Cutest Baby Chick

2008-04-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

So as many of you know my daughter's hair stood up all over the place when she was born. It tamed itself for a while, but now it is standing up again. I refuse to use product in it because I think it is adorable and endearing. Yesterday at the store a clerk came up and touched McKenna's hair and said, "Her hair is so cute, just like a baby chick." Chris and I laughed about this never having made the connection before. What do you think?

San Diego for a week...We must be crazy

2008-03-31T11:41:00.000-07:00

I am so glad to be home. Even though I was in one of my favorite places traveling with a 10 month old is no fun. It killed me to have McKenna off of her schedule but fun was to be had at Sea World, among other places. Chris and I had so much fun with McKenna this time because she was so much more animated, looking at all the animals. She even called Shamu DADA which I thought was funny. She screamed at the sealions(her fav) and loved the new Sesame Street show that they have there. We sampled many dining favorites, especially The Golden Corral, eating there twice. (We wanted to make sure McKenna had the best food available. )McKenna and I also had fun with my family, going to my cousins wedding. It was fun to see everyone especially Avery, McKenna's cousin who is only a week apart. They had fun baby screaming wars. McKenna is the light of my life and I love her so much. She is trying to stand be herself everyday and she loves pushing anything(including barstools) while standing. She is understanding more and she has said mama a few times. Of course she was crying and screaming while she said it but who cares.

Fun in the Snow

2008-02-28T13:21:00.000-08:00

We had the opportunity to stay at a friend's cabin this past weekend and it was so much fun. Of course driving in the snowstorm on the way up was kind of scary, but once we arrived at the cabin everything was A-okay. All of my family was there except for one brother so it was packed but we enjoyed and endured eachothers company. McKenna thought the snow looked good because she tried to eat it a couple of times. We did a lot of sledding and used the zip line that they had there. We also played a lot of games which I was happy about because I love to play games and everyone most of the time won't play with me because I'm too competitive-whatever. Apples to Apples is a really fun game if anyone is interesed in buying a new one. Chris went snowboarding on Saturday with Derrek and they said the slopes were in ideal condition. McKenna also wouldn't let anyone else hold her and she was a bit crankier that usual. I found out why when she had her 9 month checkup this past Monday. She is finally cutting a tooth, right now as we speak:) She is also still in the 90th percentile for height to. I wonder why? Also in these pictures my mom looks like she is in training for the speed skating event in the 2008 Olympics. Sadly, she is not it's just a weird running outfit thing.

Shaq Foo

2008-02-25T14:59:00.000-08:00

Chris was given Suns tickets for his Christmas gift by his parents. It happend to be the first night that Shaq played as a Sun. The game was so much fun, even though we were sitting by a lot of Lakers fans. Kobe gave Chris a high five and I got a high five from their newest big guy Pao Gasol. We were in row 4 right behind the basket so the view was awesome. I told Chris that this is what his parents should give him every year for Christmas. Even though the Suns lost it was the best game ever and hopefully we get to do it again sometime.

January Happenings

2008-01-19T11:03:00.000-08:00

I have read on so many blogs various New Years resolutions. I have decided just to set one goal for this year and hopefully I won't get too overwhelmed with this one. I have decided to tackle food storage. The whole thing starting with 72 hour kits, water, three month supply of everyday foods and then long term storage. My grandma has lent me some great books and I have my work cut out for me. To me it just solidifies how smart the church is. Not only storing food but saving and being prepared in general. I am really excited about it right now and hopefully that does not change. McKenna has progressed so much in such a short amount of time. She is crawling everywhere now and is no longer content to stay in one room. She is talking a ton and yesterday she kept repeating yaya. She has also decided that being on the ground crawling is fun but standing up on while holding on to things is equally if not more fun. I am so thankful that I am able to stay home with her and see firsthand all of her developmental milestones. I also wanted to thank Jill Riggs, now Jill Scripps who while in town visiting her family made some time to take some pictures of McKenna and our Family I will post some of our favorites. I hope that everyone is doing well:)

Christmas Happenings 2007

2008-01-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone! I hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year. We were so busy during this holiday season with family coming into town. It was so much fun to see everyone, but I think McKenna is relieved to have things back to normal. McKenna was completly spoiled on Christmas Eve by her Nana and Grumpa Braegger and spoiled just as equally by us and Grandma and Grandpa Wright on Christmas Day. Great Grandma Wyand spoiled her to with these awesome bibs that cover everything, they have sleeves!! We celebrated New Years Eve with my Aunt Paula, Uncle Mike, Mandy and Avery by going to lunch at Joe's BBQ. Then my dad came into town from California and we went out to dinner that night for his birthday. We were happy to have my dad in town with us and it was great to see McKenna interact with her Grandpa McKee. McKenna is a busy bee and she actually started crawling on Friday night. She had been crawling backwards for the past month and I was so excited when she actually came towards me to retrieve a toy. Life will no longer be the same.

What is wrong with this family?

2007-12-18T20:12:00.000-08:00

Jamie Lynn Spears Says She's Pregnant
1 hour ago.
This is beyond disgusting to me. This girl is 16 years old and she is a star of a hit TV show on Nickelodeon. It is scary that I will be raising my daughter with role models like this out there. It makes me so thankful for the gospel in my life.

Baby Food in the form of Meat

2007-12-17T09:25:00.000-08:00

I have a question for all the moms out there that know more than I do. McKenna has gone through all of her veggies and started on fruits about a week ago. So when should I start her on the mushy meat product? She still has no teeth and I'm worried that Grandpa Braegger will have to make some dentures for her:) Anyway please fill me in on any suggestions. I really appreciate all the advice, believe me I need it-Have a great day

Updated Family Pictures

2007-12-13T08:01:00.001-08:00

Chris and I recently went to Target for our family picture for our Christmas cards. These are some of my favorite shots of the day. McKenna eating the fake cookie was hilarious and she actually started crying when we took it away from her.

Look alike meter

2007-12-12T11:50:00.000-08:00

I have always been too frightened to try this because I thought McKenna would look like Chris 100% At least according to this measurement she has both of our good looks:)

Brad Womack is such a Tool-

2007-11-20T13:28:00.000-08:00

So I was watching the finale of The Bachelor last night and I was so excited that Brad was going to pick DeAnna. I cannot believe what he did, he started his speech and basically told her that he wasn't going to make her any false promises and said he had to tell her goodbye too. I was shocked. Was he planning to do that the whole time? Anyway I hope that he explains things on the show tonight because that was just not cool. Okay I'll move on from TV. McKenna is getting so big, she can basically sit up by herself and she loves it. Chris brought his huge keyboard to the floor to let her play it and she was so excited especially when she accidentally turned on different beats. I'm trying to think of anything else interesting to say and I can't so I hope that everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving:)

Halloween Fun

2007-11-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

I am so happy Halloween finally arrived:) We handed out so much candy this year in our new neighborhood, probably three times the amount of last year. We took some pictures of McKenna right before the trick or treaters started coming because she looked so adorable in her little kitty costume. She did miss most of the excitement though because she went to bed at 6:30. So am I the only person watching Dancing with the Stars? I was sad that Sabrina left because I thought she was the best one. Also, ANTM was not a new show last night it was a recap, I don't like when they do stuff like that it is such a let down. I know I probably watch way too much T.V. Anyway I hope everyone has a wonderful day and hopefully soon I will be able to post some pics of McKenna sitting all the way up by herself she is so close-

America's Next Top Model

2007-10-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

Tyra thinks this look is fierce. I made eye contact with the camera and told a story with my eyes. Seriously, this pose is hot, and it should be after practicing in the mirror. I still need to work on my posing though and I wait to start crawling and walking to change it up a little bit. I just know deep down in my heart that I should be America's Next Top Model. (McKenna's thoughts on this picture) I love it because you can see her beautiful eyes that sure did not come from my side of the family. By the way, I want Heather to win this season.

The Gift of Sleep

2007-10-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

So the night before last my daughter slept from 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. Words cannot describe how excited I was because in the first time in a long while I felt well rested when I woke up. However, last night my daughter went to bed at 7:50 p.m. and woke up at 3:00 a.m. screaming. I went to her room and checked on her and even changed her diaper. I gave her the pacifier and put her blanket just the way she likes it and left the room. Silence for 5 minutes had she gone to sleep? No after the five minutes I hear screaming again. I let her cry for 20 minutes and she would not let up. My husband then got up with her and stayed with her for 10 minutes before she finally got back to sleep. She then woke up at her normal 7:30 a.m. Seasoned mothers I need your advice. McKenna's pediatrician said not to feed her at night anymore and that she should be sleeping 12 hours. Should I just let her cry? What do you all think because I long for the well rested feeling I had a couple of nights ago.

McKenna is growing up too fast

2007-10-01T16:39:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how fast McKenna is growing and developing. It just seems like yesterday that we brought her home from the hospital and now she is rolling over and she has started to scoot a little bit on her tummy. I guess I will have to have another child because she is certainly not in the little I want to cuddle baby stage anymore. I must say that being a mom is the most rewarding thing in the entire world and I cannot wait to add to our family. Well I can wait a little while longer:)

2007-10-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

So my younger sister Erica got married this past weekend and I got this beautiful dress for McKenna to wear. Of course she hated it and protested so much that I just made her wear it for pictures and then changed her into a onesie. She had just had her shots a couple of days before and was not sleeping well, plus we had company at our house so she was not happy Saturday night at the reception. I have included some family shots as well. My sisters look beautiful and I still look pregnant-oh well. We had a great time with family and friends and Chris got coherced into being the DJ again. He couldn't dance with me and he was really upset about it:) A shout out has to go to Jen for keeping McKenna looking so cute with hair clips and headbands.

2007-09-20T08:54:00.000-07:00

I have decided to post some of the pictures we got taken at Target about a month ago. These are two of my favorite pics. Obviously I love the picture of McKenna with me, and this one by herself we love because you can see a little smile. We actually cut her cousin out of the other half because Rylan looked scared. Sorry Rylan

2007-09-14T18:40:00.000-07:00

So I knew it was too good to be true. Apparently the Old Navy that I was at had more t-shirts marked down than what they were supposed to. Some graphic tees are 5.00, but not all of them. Sorry for the misleading info. If you want to take advantage of the lower prices before they catch on it was the store on Cooper and Baseline that had all graphic tees for 5.00

2007-09-14T13:12:00.000-07:00

So I was just at Old Navy and they have all of their baby items 20% off. Really fun stuff for boys and girls. Also, everytime I go shopping with the intent of only getting something for McKenna I end up seeing something for myself. They have really comfy graphic tees for 5.00 each. All of their graphic tees which are normally between 14.95-16.95. Anyway I thought I would share the happy news with you all. Side note for those of you that are pregnant they have really cute maternity clothes as well.

2007-09-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

I love the Bumbo Seat, it has been a lifesaver!

Family Fun in San Diego

2007-09-10T14:48:00.000-07:00

Our first family vacation!!!! Chris and I just celebrated our five year anniversary, so we decided to splurge and went to San Diego. McKenna decided she wanted to go with us and we had so much fun at Sea World. By the way, we stayed at the Hilton Resort right on Mission Bay, which was very nice. But, what they do not tell you when you are making reservations is that they have some sort of chemical there that is known by the state of California to cause cancer and birth defects-Scary! Needless to say we will not be staying there in the future. I'm also new to the whole mom thing as many of you know, and I had the pleasure of staying in a hotel with a 31/2 month old. She was waking up like four times a night, I thought I was past all that. I guess not:)