Our Little Family

3 Months!

2012-02-20T08:18:00.001-08:00

Jack turned 3 months old on February 15th. We put away all the newborn clothes 2 weeks ago and I was a little sad. Jack is growing like crazy. I took him to the doctor a week ago because he had a bad cold and he weighed 11.6...a long way from the 4.14 he weighed when we brought him home. Jack has grown up so much in the last month and even in the last week. We have finally found a pacifier that he will take somewhat. He is learning how to put himself to sleep! He is sleeping through the night!!! YEA!!! He went 9 straight hours the other night. We were so thankful for some sleep! We felt like we had enough energy to actually accomplish something.

He loves his hands, he loves to look at them and suck on them. He loves his bath! He has almost out grown the plastic bath tub and splashed so much we have had to put rug down so he doesn't get the floor all wet. He has learned how to hold his head up really well and we are practicing sitting and standing on our laps. He loves music. He was being a little fussy the other day and my sister Katy started to play the piano and he was mesmerized by it. He went to Kindergarten for the first time this month and my students were speechless. I should take him everyday if it makes them that quiet. :) He loves his 2 bouncer seat mobiles that we put on. He will just sit and smile and smile at the monkey on the one seat.

Here are some of the faces of Jack at 3 months.

Happy

Content

concerned

silly

laughing at his Dad

Happy Valentines Day!

2012-02-14T20:52:00.000-08:00

Our little Valentine.

We are loving this smile.

He gets so excited that the pictures turn out blurry because he is moving to much.

We are so happy that he felt better today. He has a had a bad cold and yesterday he screamed all afternoon. I have never heard him cry so hard. He was having some tummy problems but seems to be back to his happy self today. :)

Blessing Day

2012-02-14T20:13:00.001-08:00

On January 1, 2012 Brent gave Jack a name and a blessing. We decided to do it then because my sister Heather was still in town from Christmas. Knowing what we know now we are so grateful that we didn't wait. The last sacrament meeting that my Grandpa Duzett attended was Jacks blessing day. I am so grateful that he was there and that he was able to be in the circle. Brent gave Jack a beautiful blessing and it was impossible to hold back the emotion of actually being able to bless him. It is something that we missed doing with our little Aiden.

Our little family...Next time we will try not to take pictures in the shade of a tree.

Me and my sweet baby... It was such a beautiful day we were able to take pictures outside. You would never know it was January.

Brent and Jack

My Parents and Jack. We missed Brent's parents who are on a mission in South Africa but we were able to skype them so that they could see Jack in his blessing outfit.

Sleeping Jack

Some of the men that stood in the circle.

We had two parties because of the size of our families. We had the Giles all over for brunch right after the blessing and my family came later that night for dinner. It seemed to work out really well, although we were scrunched in our little home.

Ponds...Minus Jared, Celyn, Jocelyn, and Tyler

Katy and Jack. Katy is so kind! She rearranged her school and work schedule so she can watch Jack Mon-Thurs mornings for us! Thank you so much Katy! My Aunt Lara is taking him Friday mornings which we are also grateful for! It is nice to be able to leave him in the hands of family.

Sleeping Jack in his blessing outfit

2 months

2012-02-07T20:39:00.000-08:00

On January 15th Jack turned 2 months old. Life has been really busy with me going back to work and my Grandpa being sick an eventually passing. I feel like for the first time since we had Jack that maybe we will be able to get into a routine. I feel bad it has taken me so long to up load these! We are loving every moment with Jack and we are starting to see his little personality come out. When we took him to the doctor he weighed 9 pounds 6 oz. He has come a long way from when he was released at a mere 4 pounds 14 oz. He is in the 50 percentile on about everything. He is a pretty average baby. The thing we are loving the most this month is his smile. He smiled for me the first time on December 22nd and I felt like crying. The next time he smiled I did cry. We have waited so long for this little miracle that it was a little bit of a pay day for us. : )

I found these stickers on etsy and didn't get them till after he had turned two months but I thought I would still take his picture because he is still technically 2 months.

He likes to be on his tummy for a little while..but when he is done he is done.

Cute bum

Maybe I will just go to sleep...

These pictures are from the day he actually turned 2 months. We put on his new sweater and pants and he looked so grown up.

Grandpa Duzett

2012-02-05T22:41:00.000-08:00

My(Emily) Grandpa Duzett passed away on January 26th. He had gone in for a surgery that should have been uneventful and somewhat simple. Well days after having surgery he suffered from blood clots and extra bleeding. We thought for a little while that he might pull through but in the end it was his time to go. It has been a hard and sweet time for our family. We are so grateful for the gospel and we know that we will be with him again someday. I just wanted to list somethings that I will never forget about my Grandpa.
-I will never forget that he had a simple testimony of the gospel.
-I will never forget that he wasn't perfect and when he made a mistake he would make sure he would fix it.
-I will never forget how excited he was for Jack to come to our family. He worried about Brent and I and he knew what it felt like to wait so long for a baby.
-I will never forget the time he spent in our home teaching Brent how to do many little things like replacing base board and putting up crown molding.
- I will never forget what a meticulous and hard worker he was.
-I will never forget being with him twice when he got pulled over and him mentioning that he had a temple recommend to the police officer.
-I will never forget that he grilled a great hamburger and many fun memories from family BBQ's
-I will never forget going with him and some cousins down to the church to make sure it was all locked up. Me and my cousins would follow him around the building locking and turning out lights. Our favorite thing was to turn on a light that he had turned off so when we got outside he would look up and say, "hey I thought I turned that light off". We would all have a good giggle. He eventually learned to not let us back in the building. :)
-I will never forget his sense of humor. He loved joking around and even liked laughing at himself.
-I will never forget that he was able to stand in the circle as Brent blessed our little Jack. Little did we know that it would be his last sacrament meeting.

Grandpas grave sight

Our Little Family...We also know that Aiden was waiting on the other side to see Grandpa

All the cousins oldest to youngest

My Aunt Janae, Mom, Grandma, Aunt Leann, and Uncle Todd

Jack was so good through all of it. He slept through the viewing and funeral.

The grandsons

The Grandaughters

All the grandkids and their familes...Minus Heathers Andrew in Memphis and Brent's Emily in London

My Grandpas siblings....Calvin, Marjorie, and Courtney

The last picture I took of my Grandpa...he was trying to get away and out of the picture. It was the night of Jacks blessing at our home.

Christmas Night

2012-01-17T14:15:00.000-08:00

After church on Christmas we went to Brent's parents house and exchanged some gifts. Thank you Amber for our gifts we love them all and still need to find a time to have you watch Jack while we go to dinner! ;) We then went up to my uncle Todds for dinner and another gift exchange.

We took turns opening as we went around in a circle. We hadn't done this all together before but we really enjoyed it!

Me and my cousin Andrea with her little guy Caleb

My sister Katy this year for Christmas she put together a shutterfly book for our cousin Heidi.

It had pictures of them growing up and playing at my Grandparents. I think Heidi loved it and Katy was so excited to give it to her.

The cover and Katy's Red eyes...:)

I just thought this was a cute picture...Don't you think Katy.?

A picture of my Grandpa opening his gifts... He has had a rough couple of weeks and we almost lost him! We love you Grandpa and you our in our prayers.

Christmas Morning

2012-01-16T14:47:00.001-08:00

On Christmas Eve I didn't go to bed until 2 a.m. I was expecting to be up a couple of times before 6 a.m. when my family usually gets up to see what Santa brought. Brent and I woke up at 6:15 and looked at eachother and said Jack never got up. He went down around 1:30 and slept through. YEA! It was a great Christmas present. Thanks Jack! I fed Jack and we headed over to my parents house. I am sure that Jack was wondering why everyone was up when it is usually just him and I at 6 a.m.

Merry Christmas Jack

His concerned look

Waiting to open presents

Santa brought me a cricut that will cut bigger things than the one I had!

Jack's Christmas...he didn't get much because he didn't need much. :) He looks a little bug eyed.

Of course our greatest gift this year is our little Jack!

Jacks first pair of overalls!

Jack was once again hungry when we were trying to take a picture.

Chirstmas breakfast!

Christmas was exhausting! Jack and my Dad resting after a busy Christmas season...

once again priceless!

Christmas Jammies!

2012-01-11T11:09:00.001-08:00

Our family tradition is to get new PJ's for Christmas. I had bought some new pajamas for the hospital so I didn't need any. My Mom also made all of her grand kids pajamas for Christmas.

Brent and Jack ready to open.

Everyone ready to open

Ready...Set...Open!

Jack in his new jammies

Wishing that I would feed him...He was being a good sport

Jack, Ella, and Easton in their cute jammies

Jammies on!

A priceless family photo...We have waited a long time to have a baby to share Christmas with. It is a true blessing!

I forgot to put this one in the last post but it is a pretty cute one...I think

More Christmas Eve Pictures

2012-01-10T20:55:00.000-08:00

Just a few other pictures of Christmas Eve.

Jack in his first Christmas hat and onesie

On our way home from my grandparents house on Christmas Eve we like to drive around and look at the lights. This year I asked Brent to drive around where all my students live. It was pretty fun to see all the lights. We found this tree and thought it was really cool that it was decorated like a real Christmas tree.

My Grandma with Jack. She might not appreciate this picture but I think its priceless

My little cuddle bug

Christmas Eve Program

2012-01-09T19:54:00.000-08:00

Every Christmas Eve as I have blogged before we put on the nativity. This year my Mom suggested that Brent and I be Joseph and Mary so we could have Jack be Jesus. It was a very special thing as this Christmas has been having Jack. The spirit was quite strong and it was all I could do not to cry the whole time as I held my little baby and thought about Mary. Here are some pictures from the performance.

All dressed up and ready to go

Listening to the nativity story

Our "Wise Men"

Sheppard's and Angel

Jack was so good through the whole thing...He didn't make a sound

Lights!

2012-01-08T14:46:00.001-08:00

On December 21st we bundled up little Jack and headed down to see the lights. Jack was with us but stayed bundled to the point that he didn't see any lights. He would of loved them as all babies love to look at lights.

All bundled up and ready to go

Our family picture

We loved this tree with the yellow and red lights

Stocking

2011-12-22T09:09:00.000-08:00

30 years ago maybe even to the day. Brent's parents brought him home from the hospital in this stocking. We were excited when we found out Jack was due in December so we could put him in this sock and be about the same size as Brent was. Brent has looked for the picture of him in the sock but hasn't been able to find it yet...when he does I will have him post it to compare size.

A pretty cute little face

30...

2011-12-21T14:27:00.000-08:00

Brent playing with his new toy... A soldering kit

Brent is pretty fun to watch with Jack

Yesterday was Brent's 30th Birthday. I wanted to post this on his actual birthday but he decided to take the day off so I decided to wait a day. I just want to tell you 30things that I love about Brent.
1.He is Christ like
2.He is patient
3.He is a hard worker
4.He is a great Dad
5.He is pretty cute! :)
6.He is temple worthy
7.He is a preisthood holder
8.He takes care of me
9.He is a great driver
10.He doesn't like dogs as much as I do
11.He listens
12.He sleeps quietly
13.He has a strong testimony
14.He is kind
15.He is a good Brother
16.He is a good friend
17.He let me paint our room purple
18.He loves Soccer
19.He likes to run
20.He is SMART!
21.He is responsible
22.He will get up with Jack and let me sleep
23.He is concerned about others
24.He watches TV out of the corner of his eye
25.He is polite
26.He is older than me. :)
27.He doesn't like gossip
28.He is tall
29.He likes living next door to my parents
30.He does not complain

I LOVE all these things about him and once I got to the end I think I could do 30 more.
Brent- I hope you had a great day and I LOVE YOU!

Due Date

2011-12-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

December 16th was Jack's due date. It is so nice to have him here! I remember talking with my doctor in September about inducing because I was concerned that the soonest he would induce me would be the 23rd of December. He laughed and said your high risk and not to worry about it. I know now that I will probably never get to any due date I am given. It still is a significant date and we are glad we can now call him full term!

Jack on his due date 12/16/11

1 Month

2011-12-15T19:31:00.001-08:00

Jack turned 1 month today. We can't believe it has been 1 month since our lives seemed to change forever and we wouldn't go back for anything. Jack has had a lot of first in this first month.

Here are some:

-First IV

-First shots

-First car ride

-First night at home

-First time meeting lots of family and friends

-First sacrament meeting

-First Thanksgiving

-First Christmas party

-First full bath

-First smile

-First doctors appt.

-First photo shoot

Jack is growing and growing we believe he is over 6 1/2 pounds. We are having so much fun just taking care and loving him!

Here are some pictures we took of him...We put on his hat because we were going to be going out. He looks like a little elf.

He is not fond of flashes on cameras...but what baby is. :)

Oh I love that little smile

He was a little fussy so we popped in the binki

He loves to be on his tummy

A picture with Dad

A picture with Mom...I look a little tired...but it is sure worth it!

He is probably hoping we will just let him sleep. We call him our one eye Jack when he does this.

Pictures of Jack

2011-12-13T20:04:00.001-08:00

we have been having so much fun with our little Jack. He is becoming more alert all the time. We love just hanging out holding our little Jack! We feel so blessed.

Bright eyed Jack

Nice tongue

A sleepy smile

My sister Heather has let us use some of her baby clothes. We love this warm little santa suit when we need to go out.

Our Christmas Elf

Festival of Trees

2011-12-13T19:46:00.000-08:00

We had to have one picture proving that we were there. This is how Jack saw the festival.

I love this saying. I love all the family time that comes with Christmas.

We have really tried to keep Jack in and not take him to many places and when we do he stays covered up in his car seat. So when it was the festival of trees 2 weeks ago I decided it was o.k. to go if he was covered.

I love the festival of trees. It makes it feel like Christmas when I go. I did a tree when I was in highschool with my interior design class and loved doing it. It is amazing to go through and think about all the stories behind each tree and the sacrifice and love that went into them.

I was really trying to be careful but needed to give him a bottle that I had brought instead of trying to find a place to nurse. I sat down in a row of chairs and before I knew it one of my students was sitting right next to me saying, "MRS. GILES"! It was fun to see her and she kept her distance which I was grateful for. It also made me miss my little class. I have such mixed feelings about going back to work.

Two Weeks

2011-12-01T20:23:00.001-08:00

Jack is now two weeks and we are all a little tired but its o.k. we are not complaining we just love our little Jack and he is improving each night. I just feel bad for Brent who has to go to work everyday. Hopefully we are sleeping a little more before I have to go back to work.

We took Jack back to the doctors this week and these are his stats:

Weight-5 pounds 9 oz...We are trying to break into the 6 pound club :)

Height-18 1/2 inches...he keeps shrinking...he was supposedly 19 and 3/4 inches at birth.

I am really enjoying just being with Jack all day. I went to the store yesterday for the first time in a couple of weeks and I forget how much I love living in my little bubble of just family and Jack. I decided to try and take some pictures but I am not a very good photographer and we just have a point and shoot camera.

Bright Eyed Jack

His Glare

The best smile I have got so far...

Oh how we love you...our little Jack!

First Bath

2011-12-01T19:51:00.000-08:00

Getting all ready for his bath...he HATES getting undressed

Not sure he is liking his face washed

Getting his hair washed...There is nothing better than a clean baby!

Grandma Pond giving me a bath

He loved having his back washed

All dry! He did really well.

All done! We love that he has enough hair to give a little style.

We were so excited when we could finally give Jack a full bath this week! I remember my Mom giving Ella and Easton thier first real full baths the last two years so I asked my Mom if she would like to give Jacks his. She is such a natural. I guess it comes from having 6 kids :). I just got to sit back and take pictures.

Thanksgiving!

2011-11-28T14:58:00.000-08:00

As with every year we have so much to be Thankful for. Truly this year what we are most Thankful for is our little Jack. We spent many holidays wishing and hoping that by the next holiday we to would have a child to celebrate with. We are truly thankful for our little miracle that shouldn't even technically be here yet. :)

The Great Grand kids of my Grandma and Grandpa Duzett. Not pictured two angels Henry and Aiden. It was hilarious trying to get them all to sit still. We had about 20 adults and 10 cameras trying to get the best shot. I am sure this is not one of the best.

Caleb, Hannah, Dahlia, Jocelyn, Ella, Easton, Tyler, and Jack

Just the boys... Caleb, Tyler, Easton, and Jack.

I have a dear friend that on the day I went in to have Jack left a huge package on my porch of newborn things and some much needed items. These Thanksgiving jammies were included. Thank you so much! You know who you are. :)

Our little family

Easton not very happy his Mom is holding another baby.

My cuddle bug

Our great place tag and treat.

I think I could sit and hold him all day!

My sister Katy bought this cute shirt for Tyler and Jack the night before Thanksgiving.

One Week!

2011-11-26T09:08:00.000-08:00

We look back in the first week of Jacks life and lots of words come to our minds. We think exciting, scary, emotional, overwhelming, joyful, a dream, a miracle, exhausting, grateful

and lots and lots of love for our little Jack. He has over come a lot the past week. He spent 5 days in the NICU, met many family members, ripped out his own feeding tube, and turned into a fantastic eater, went to his first pediatrician appt. and found out he was back to his birth weight. We had some long nights but we wouldn't trade them for anything including sleep. :) We love you Jack!

Jack is a very content baby...He doesn't complain much. He was considered low maitenance in the NICU

He is probably thinking... Who did they send me home with???

From one home to another...

2011-11-20T20:56:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of Jack's home for the last week.

Saturday night Brent stopped by the NICU to drop off some milk for Jack and meet the night time nurse. The nurse mentioned a possibility that if Jack passed his car seat test and his Jaundice levels didn't jump up he might be able to come home on Sunday. Brent and I didn't want to get our hopes up but we decided we would spend all the time we needed to get everything we needed to do so if Jack could come home, he could. One of the big hurdles we had to overcome was to make a pediatrician appointment. Well, it's Sunday and there are not many pediatric centers that are open. Brent called the one we wanted to take Jack to and we got an automated message saying they were closed but they did have an on call doctor. We thought we would take a chance and try the on call doctor and see if it was possible to get an appointment. The pediatrician said they wouldn't want us to stay in the NICU more time then we had to and he guaranteed us we could get an appointment with that information the doctors and nurses in the NICU felt good enough to send Jack home if he could eat enough. We worked with Jack to get him eating enough food to meet their requirements. So, JACK IS COMING HOME!!!

Jack in his coming home outfit

Brent trying to get Jack into his coming home outfit. He still needs some practice :)

Jack already to go home

Jack sleeping in his new bouncer seat...

His bouncer in our home! Thanks to such generous friends we are excited to have a bouncer for our house and one we can leave at my Mom's.

Parent Survival package given to us by the NICU staff. We are so grateful for all the wonderful nurses that cared for Jack while he was in the NICU. He had some awesome nurses looking over him.

More NICU fun!

2011-11-20T20:10:00.000-08:00

Jack has been doing really well in the NICU. All the nurses have loved him and expressed how cute or handsome he is. Friday during the day we were there and helped with some of his cares and feedings. They checked his glucose again and since it was staying at a good level they decided it was time to take out his IV. Yah! One more step to getting him home. He still had to have his photo therapy for his Jaundice. Brent went over to see him Saturday night while I stayed home and rested. Pleasantly when Brent got there he noticed Jack's feeding tube was gone. He tried to take a picture but it was pretty dark but if you look closely you can see his feeding tube is gone.

We later found out that he had pulled it out all by himself and the nurse didn't see any reason to put it back in. Also since the lights were off this also meant that his Jaundice had gone down and he was no longer in need of the light treatment.

Now that he didn't need to be under the lights for his photo therapy we could put some cloths on him. The NICU had some outfits we could use while we were there. The next couple of pictures show his outfits he wore at the NICU. This one was his first outfit. He promptly spit up all over it while he was eating so I guess he didn't like it.

All the outfits the NICU had were premie. The next outfit was one that even though it was a premie, Jack did not fit in it. You can't tell in the picture but his knees had to be bent in order to fit into this outfit

Life in the NICU...

2011-11-18T20:31:00.001-08:00

We have been living in the NICU this week. It has been good and Jack has made progress. On Wednesday they decided that he wasn't eating enough so they put in a feeding tube. They also found out that he was a little jaundice. So he has been under lights for the last 2 days. All normal things that are very fixable. It was hard to leave him last night and go home and not be at least in the same building with him. I (Emily) didn't sleep well at all. I just had to keep reminding myself he is in good hands and he has no significant problems. Today (Friday) he ate like a champ! He took to his food, woke up hungry and one feeding we couldn't give him enough. We are hopeful that he will go a full 48 hours without having to use the feeding tube so he can come HOME!!! We are loving this little guy and his little personality is already showing. Here are some pictures to demonstrate that. Someday he will be able to wear clothes. If we can get him off those lights he could get dressed. :)

We caught him with his legs crossed...

Showing us how strong he is.

He pulled his mask clear off his eyes and yesterday he not only pulled his mask off he wiggled clear out of his diaper.

The nurse tried using a onsie... It didn't last long.

Introducing Jack Carlen Giles

2011-11-15T17:32:00.000-08:00

For all those who may be wondering when we might have our baby. He came this morning at 3:05 am. He is 19 3/4 inches long and weighs 5 lbs 3 oz. We named him Jack Carlen Giles. We are so in love with this sweet little angel. He is currently in the NICU to monitor his glucose levels. His lungs are strong and he looks really good. Here are some pictures we would like to share with everyone. Thanks to everyone for your prayers and support. He truly is a miracle.

This is the sign the awesome nurses in the NICU made for him once we choose his name.

Emily with Jack shortly after birth.

Brent with Jack all bundled up.

Jack in his bundle of blankets.

Jack after a nice bath resting in his NICU crib.

Halloween!

2011-11-07T08:39:00.001-08:00

We had two family parties the weekend of Halloween. On Saturday we had our Duzett family pumpkin carving party. Brent did all the carving this year and I did my fair share of eating A LOT. On Sunday we had a Giles family party and once again had lots of great food and enjoyed visiting with everyone. Especially skyping Brent's parents in Africa.

Brent and I with Brent's awesome creations!

All the family that was there.

Brent working hard

No, I did not eat all these!!! I was taking a plate full of treats out to those carving, but everyone thought it looked pretty funny.

To come up with a costume for school was really hard this year. I was looking at all my maternity clothes thinking what can I do to make a costume. I was at a total loss. My Mom came home from her school carnival with a great idea. To see if I could get me a skeleton shirt that also had a skeleton fetus. So I started looking online and remembered one of my friend had one. I tried to see if I could get one mailed in time and it was to late. So Brent made me my own pattern that I could trace onto felt and iron onto a black shirt. It turned out really good I thought. It was funny to walk through our school parade and see parents that I had last year that didn't know I was pregnant. I got comments like, "was he there last spring." or I didn't know!!! It was quite entertaining.

Real Salt Lake!

2011-10-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

The past 6 months we have really enjoyed having season tickets to the REAL games. We have missed more games than we would have liked due to conflicts. Sometimes I just didn't feel up to it so Brent got to take some friends and family with him. Well the last game of the season was a week or so ago and we took some pictures. It has been fun and we really enjoyed going to the first playoff game last Saturday. They played really well and won Seattle 3-0! I don't think that we will be getting the tickets again which is a bummer, but I don't think people sitting by us would appreciate a baby at every game. :) We are bummed that they lost last night to L.A. :( Well there is always next season.

The Little Mermaid

2011-10-22T08:57:00.001-07:00

Ever since I was in 2nd grade when the little mermaid came out it has been my favorite Disney movie. So this year when Tuachan announced they were going to be putting it on I have wanted to go. Well we tried to go on our anniversary in June and it was sold out. I kind of put it out of my mind and forgot about it until the end of August. Then I got back on to check tickets and all the Friday's were sold out. I was so bummed! Then Brent said why don't we go on a week night during your Fall break and I will see what I can do about work. So I went ahead and booked the tickets.

It was amazing! It was such a beautiful night which I was concerned about being so late in October. I loved being able to look up and see all the beautiful stars. The costumes and actors did a fantastic job. The best part though is the people sitting on the side of Brent and I got up and left at intermission so we had extra space! Thanks Brent for taking me it might be our last little getaway for awhile. :)

I was so excited...and a little exhausted but it was worth it!

The awesome stage that was flooded with water.

Waiting for it to start.

Women's Conference and 28 weeks...

2011-09-26T15:44:00.001-07:00

This past Saturday I went with my Mom, Katy, my Grandma Duzett, Lara, Janae, Liz, and Camille down to the conference center to hear the Relief Society meeting. There is nothing like being in that building when the prophet walks in. The spirit is incredible! I loved all the talks and really enjoyed Elder Uchtdorfs talk about forget me nots.

Me, Katy, and my Mom...waiting for the meeting to start.

Katy, Camille, Me, and Abby eating at Cowboy Grub

28 weeks... A picture for posterity sake.

One Good Man!!!

2011-09-26T15:18:00.001-07:00

This post is just for Brent! I know that it is cheesy but Brent has been my superstar the last couple months. I have been somewhat limited on what I can do. This past week I have had some contractions and some pain so I have been taking it easy. On Saturday Brent worked so hard. I love a clean and organized house and Brent has tried so hard to keep on top of things and Saturday was no different. Brent took down all my summer decorations, put up my fall decorations, organized some of our basement, cleaned and cleaned, and last of all he even canned some peaches for me. Thank you so much Brent for all your hard work! It means so much to me and I LOVE YOU!

Some of Brent's decorating

I love Fall!

Brent's Peaches

Peaches...I can't get enough

My hero canning peaches...He wasn't so thrilled I was taking his picture.

Labor Day Weekend!

2011-09-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

Ever since we were in Nauvoo we have been missing our little nieces and nephews that live out of state. So we were thrilled when Jared and Celyn called and said they were coming for about a week. We had a great weekend together and enjoyed playing with Jocelyn and Tyler.

Tyler...He is so happy!

Jared and Tyler

Jocelyn and her two new friends. Jocelyn came with Brent and I to Kohls. She was so cute when she saw the Clifford display. Jocelyn is an organizer so she went and moved all the Cloe's to the same self and looked at me and said we can get one of these. I am a sucker and said well lets ask uncle Brent and he just laughed and of course we got Cleo. She went back with her parent's later and got the other little guy.

On labor day we had a family BBQ at my grandmas . My cute cousin Andrea brought some candy and a pinata for the kids. All the adults watching the pinata closely making sure no one got hit with the stick.

Thank goodness for my grandparent's tree that always seem to have something in it, balls, shoes, etc. This pinata was a first for the big tree.

Katy and Jocelyn

The kids having their own picnic.

August in a crazy nut shell!

2011-09-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

UPDATE...

Well I know it has been awhile but that's what you get with the beginning of school and I (Emily) being so tired all I could do was come home from work and sleep. :) As far as a pregnancy update we got our crib this week and we love it! Brent just needs to set it up. I am feeling pretty good trying not to over do. Brent is so excited! It is fun to see! He has downloaded programs onto his I pod to track what size the baby is.

No name...maybe by the time he is 1 we will have decided. We had another ultrasound and he was measuring right on his due date. He gave the specialist and the radiologist a run for their money when he would flip when they would try to get a good look at his spine. We are so blessed to have this little miracle in our lives!

Brent and I at the Pond Family reunion

Sarah digging for 1941 coins from the year my grandparents were married. Digging through sawdust for coins is a Pond family tradition.

Did I forget to mention REAL games! :)

At the Allens cabin playing Farkle

Brent was at the cabin for maybe three hours! :)

Celebrating Spencers 18th birthday

18...I can't believe he is 18...one year till he is on his mission

Well I always dread August because of the return of school. It just makes for an extra busy month! We did alot on top of me trying to get my classroom ready. We had some busy weekends! Some fun things and a couple hard things! We had 3 family weddings, a 2 day Pond family reunion, we went to the parade of homes, went to the Allens cabin up by Kamas, had a fun BBQ with friends, seeing two nieces be blessed, and went to Brent's parents cabin for the afternoon with some family.

The hard thing for the month was going to my cousin Brent's little baby boys memorial service. It was nice to see Brent and Emily from London but not under those circumstances. We think about you guys often and are always in our prayers!

That is the break down of August and it flew by! Its good we had Katy along because she was the one who took all the pictures. Thanks Katy!

24th of July weekend!

2011-08-24T13:04:00.001-07:00

We started the 24th of July weekend on Thursday because we went to Bear Lake with Brent's friends from high school. (Thanks Kyle and Steph it was a fun weekend!) Brent had a great time water skiing and tubing. I had a great time sitting on the patio relaxing because my doctor thought it would be better for me not to get on the boat at all. Its o.k. it will be worth it. We came home on Sunday so Brent could run in the 10K before the parade. Here are some pictures from that weekend.

Watching the parade

I hope that Brent and I can go see this at Tuachann this fall.

Katy ran it with Brent...they came in about a min apart

My mom with Andrea's little Caleb. She was missing her grandchildren this day so thanks Andrea for sharing.

My view for the weekend

We bought the guys sling shots and they had a good time hitting each other with marshmallows.

Nauvoo

2011-08-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

We had the opportunity to go to Nauvoo this last July. We went to see my family in the Nauvoo Pageant. Here are some pictures so show a little bit of what we experienced. There are a lot of pictures so keep going. :)

WINTER QUARTERS

On our way to Nauvoo we stopped in Omaha and saw Winter Quarters and the

Winter Quarters Temple. It was a nice evening but lots of bugs. We my cousin Ben with us and he entertained us by trying to catch the fireflies for Ali's bug collection. :) We also had my Grandma Duzett with us and they both kept us entertained as we made the long trip.

NAUVOO

These girls had a great time together. This is them the first night they would just giggle and giggle!

Brent with Ella and Joceyln.

The girls in their matching shirts that Jocelyn had picked out for them when we were in

El Paso in May. She was so worried that Ella had one too.

Ella and Jocey talking about their next adventure.

They loved sitting on this tub together.

COUNTRY FAIR!

Every night they had a country fair an hour before the Nauvoo pageant started with dancing, games, and we loved the cheap snack bar with Nachos and snow cones! YUM

I enjoyed being with these two girls!!!

Easton trying to get some sleep...poor thing. :)

Brent's attempt mid air

Ben walking around

Jocey loved the dancing at the fair... she is trying to do Irish dance

Ben and Brent doing the sawing competition

Sarah with one of the many friends she made while participating in the pageant. If you want to see more pictures of the pageant look at my sister Heather's blog. She had a nice camera there and got some great shots of my family in the pageant the reason for going to Nauvoo.

Jared and Cute Jocey

WATCHING SOME SHOWS!

Easton thinking hmmm....when am I going to nap!

Jocelyn and Ella playing with one of the cast members.

The couple that played Joseph and Emma. They did a fantastic job!

Carthage Jail... A place that has an incredible spirit. Jocelyn wanted to be in our family picture which was just fine with us.

Trail of Hope

Saturday morning we went on the trial of hope and listened to the stories of the pioneers as they left Nauvoo.

The end of the trail of hope and standing in front of the Mississippi River

BROWNING GUN SHOP

Heather trying to keep Ella contained.

Spencer enjoying the guns

A shot from the back of the gun shop

FAMILY PICTURES

US!

My Brother Jared and his family

Heather trying to catch Ella

Trying to get a shot in the 5 minutes we had. It was so hot and the kids weren't having it. But it is proof that we were all together.

When we got home my family wasn't home for a couple days so I decided to make a sign for them. They were happy to be home but they really miss Nauvoo.

Celebrating

2011-08-12T09:15:00.000-07:00

In front on the very full Provo river. I look a little bug eyed. :)

The pretty country side of Woodland!

Brent and I wanted to do something small for our 7th anniversary because we had several things coming up that needed more of our money. So we tried to find a bed and breakfast that we liked. Brent finally found one and then decided not to tell me where it was. So that night we headed out I not knowing where we were headed. I decided that I wanted to eat at Ruth's dinner up immigration canyon. So that was my part. The food was WONDERFUL! I totally recommend it!

We then continued on and went over to Kamas and drove past Brent parents cabin and got some ice cream. We then went over to Woodland were the bed n breakfast was. It was a beautiful area and very relaxing. We met another couple at breakfast that lived in Taylorsville, went to highschool together but never associated with each other until after, they were celebrating their 7th anniversary, and have struggled with infertility. It was a little creepy all the similarities we had. They were nice and we had a nice time talking to them.

7 Wonderful Years!!!

2011-08-02T13:40:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures of the last 7 years I wanted to add more but ran out of time...

We are truly so blessed!!!

June 24, 2004

Just Us...for now

Seeing the Lion King in Vegas

Yea!!! Graduation day

Our humble abode that we LOVE!

On June 24th we celebrated our 7th anniversary. We have had a wonderful 7 years together and have some amazing experiences together. We thought we would highlight our top 7 accomplishments or adventures...

#7-Being sealed 7 years ago to start this all off

#6- Being able to buy our home

#5-Graduations and Jobs

#4-Aiden

#3-Many new nieces and nephews..who we absolutely love!

#2- The many places we have been able to see. Outer Banks, Nauvoo, Mississippi, California, Yellowstone, just to name some.

#1- Finding out we are being blessed with another baby!!!

Our Duck

2011-07-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of June Brent was cleaning out our front flower garden. He was trimming the bushes and a egg rolled out from behind one of them. He looked over and a mother duck was sitting there watching him from the sidewalk. He quickly rolled the egg back in without touching it. The mother did eventually return and continued to sit on her nest. It was fun to check on her and watch the process. While our niece Ella was here loved going over and looking at the duck. Every time she went outside she would say, "Quack, Quack". I had a silly dream of at least seeing the ducklings, but the hatched while we were out of town and all we have left is egg shells. This is our 2nd mamma duck that has chosen our yard to nest in. Its kinda fun!

El Paso...Y'all

2011-06-13T12:57:00.000-07:00

We know it has been awhile but I am going to try to catch up...but if I don't oh well!

Over Memorial Day we had the opprotunity to take a long ride to El Paso to see my brother Jared and his cute little family. We also went to see Jared bless his new baby boy Tyler. We were able to stay at my sister-in-laws parents beautiful home. Thank you to the Bowdens for letting us all stay!!! We had a great time visiting, seeing where Jared is working, shopping, seeing the pecan orchards, eating lots of yummy mexican food, and seeing Tyler blessed. We miss them! We can't wait to see them in Nauvoo in a couple of weeks.

Spencer and Jocelyn on the tractor.

Jocelyn enjoyed jumping on the tramp with Sarah.

Holding Tyler for the first time.

Tyler has such a cute face!

Brent and Jocelyn with cheesy smiles.

Just hanging out on the swing

Outside Jared and Celyns church after Tylers blessing.

Jared and Tyler

Just inside the front door at Celyns parents house.

Mississippi

2011-05-15T08:53:00.001-07:00

I know it was about a month ago but I had the opportunity to fly to Memphis to see my sister Heather and her cute family. We did a lot of relaxing but also got out and did some fun things. I could have just played with her kids all day and been happy but we went on a few adventures.

Tuesday we went to Heathers ward park day which was hot and humid. It was fun to watch Ella want nothing to do with the playground but wanted to be in the parking lot. We went to my favorite place in Memphis The Crepe Maker...They are the BEST!!! Then right next door is Charming Charlies...it has AWESOME accessories. Then Then Heather and Andrew that night went to the temple so I got Ella and Easton all to myself!!! After that Ella was a little nervous about her parents being out of her sight because she thought she would have to stay with me again. Tuesday night there were some bad storms that went through and I got to hear the tornado sirens. Heather and Andrew weren't to nervous but I was extremely nervous! The storm knocked out the power to part of Memphis including Andrews school. So Andrew didn't have to go to school Wednesday or Thursday!!!

Wednesday-We slept in and had a relaxing morning. Then in the afternoon we went to a place called Mud Island. We went there to drop off a meal to someone in Andrews class who has cancer. We then went to a place that shows the different levels of the Mississippi river from start to finish. It was really cool to see. That night Heather had made the yummiest garlic potatoes with Parmesan pork chops!!!

Thursday- We left Andrew with Ella napping and went to Wendy's and Gordmans. I love all the children's books that they sell for dirt cheap. That night we went to a place in downtown Memphis called Gus's. It has the best fried chicken. It was a true southern experience. There was a police chase that had ended just about a block away from Gus's...nothing like being in Downtown Memphis at night...Yikes.

Friday-We did some shopping so Heather could get ready for Easter. We then had sonic and headed back into Memphis to go to the Zoo. We had a great time at the zoo...it actually has LOTS of animals we didn't even to begin to see it all. After we went and picked Andrew up from school and went to another Favorite a BBQ place called Corkys. Yum, Yum, Yum!!!

We then went home and I started to get ready to go home. I thought my flight was at 12:30 so I needed to be there at 10:30 but luckily Heather told me that I needed to double check that. So I looked and my flight would be leaving at 10:30...I was glad Heather told me to look!

Saturday-I had to say goodbye :( I got to the airport in plenty of time. We got loaded and backed out of the gate and then sat for a couple minutes and starting moving. Then we went and turned around and the captain came on and said we had to go back to the gate because there was a problem. So we then sat there for an hour and a half. Many people missed there connections in Dallas. I was able to make mine just fine. After we were loaded in Dallas they came on and said the engine was leaking so it would be a while...I had no luck with planes that day! Luckily we only had to sit for 45 min. Then I was finally able to get back to Salt Lake.

At the river park at Mud Island. Looking over to downtown Memphis

The River replica this is now under a couple feet of water because of the floods back there.

The great MISSISSIPPI!

The Cutest baby Easton...I LOVE THIS HAT!

Outside Gus's

Easton worn out! But he has a hold of his duck.

Ellla looking at the Elephants.

I Love Elephants!

Ella not so sure about me

Ella loves to cross her legs.

Amazing Giraffes

Emily's Birthday!

2011-04-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

My Birthday was last Friday and had a wonderful day. For the first time since I started teaching I decided to not take the day off and go ahead and teach. (This tells you how much I enjoy my class and its only half day.) At school two months ago we graphed when everyones birthday was. They were really interested when my birthday was and I told them when it was and put it into our graph. Which was then put away thinking that they would forget. So I was surprised when we started talking about having a new month in a week when several of my students starting saying your birthday is on April 1st Mrs. Giles. I was agreed and thought they would drop it. The next Monday they came and started talking about the birthday party they were going to have for me. Then a Mom stopped in and wondered when she could bring cake. I told her that was really o.k. and she said so what time? I finally relented and told her 10 would work fine. My kids would not start talking about it all week. They were really cute about it. It made me feel good even though I usually don't like a huge fuss over me and decided to just enjoy it. So a couple moms came in with Balloons, cake, and a drink for everyone. They even brought a game to play with them but we ran out of time because it took me so long to open my gifts. Thanks to all who had a hand in it, it made me feel really appreciated!!!

After school I went home and was able to talk to my In-laws in South Africa which is always great! Then I went to lunch with some family. That night we went to my little sisters dance recital then to Pei Wei for dinner. Brent then surprised me with an ice cream cake and some wonderful gifts. Thanks to all that made my day so great!

Brent cut my name out of my cricut and hung it to this sign. SO CUTE! Thanks Brent!

All my gifts from my students they were so generous...can we say MUMS! :0

My Gifts from Brent he did a great job and even went and bought wrapping paper!

Blowing out my candles...oh how I love ice cream cake!

This is for my sister Heather...this is when I opened the Gordmon's gift card from Katy... I can't wait till I can use it is MISSISSIPPI!

YEA I get to order some new Danskos

Hmmm...what is it....it was a straightener

Celebrating at my Grandmas...our camera had been in the car and was a little foggy.

We also celebrated my cousin Emma's Birthday and my aunt Janae

Spencer was exhausted from going on tour... we couldn't keep him awake

St. George- Dance Comp

2011-03-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

Sarah far left in her ending pose in her Jazz dance... I was NEVER that flexible

Ending pose in her clogging dance. Sarah is back middle

Katy and I at the dance recital. You can see I didn't feel well just look at my eyes.

We went to a place called Tony's BBQ and you could write on the wall so Sarah and her friend Maddie decided to take advantage and write on the door frame.

Loving this phone booth.

This picture didn't turn out...but it looks like I am picking Katy's nose so we got a good laugh.

Life is GOOD!

I loved this old truck

I (Emily) left Brent home and went to St. George with the girls plus my dad for the weekend. We had the opportunity to rent a house. It was nice to not be in a hotel room so we could all have our own space and have more than one bathroom. I had a terrible cold so everyone was grateful they did have to be to close except Katy she had to be my roommate. We had a good time relaxing and seeing Sarah dance.

Mimis Cafe, Culvers

2011-03-21T18:48:00.001-07:00

Heather, Me, and Katy

Starting Ella off young. YUMMY!

Out with the girls requires sunglasses

Ella and Heather

Brent and I and our huge juices! We were dressed up because we went straight to the baptism of our nephew Parker.

The whole clan.

Katy came back from Memphis with some pictures that I needed to update my blog. While Heather and Andrew were in town we tried not to eat out to much but we did go to breakfast at Mimis, ( our families favorite place for breakfast) and Culvers. These are just some pictures of those places. Oh man we enjoy eating TO MUCH and it shows! OH well good times!

Youth?? That picture is all over!!!

2011-03-20T19:04:00.001-07:00

So last fall I (Emily) was with my Mom, Katy, Molly, Leann, Andrea, Camille, Abby, Janae and my Grandma. We were all standing in line waiting to go into the Relief Society meeting when I looked over and saw a lady taking a picture of Katy and I. I didn't have much time to react. I remember saying to Katy, "that lady just took our picture." and thinking oh man I hope I don't see that in a magazine. Well sure enough a couple of months later I walked into to mutual and all the girls ran up to me and started saying, "We saw you". I was thinking, "WHERE"? They then told me about the New Era and after mutual I went home and went to the neighbors house to see. Sure enough there we were. YIKES. I am not saying this because I want people to tell me its a good picture because I know its NOT of me. I really like it of Katy, I just think I look annoyed. Then just in the last week it has come up again as it was posted as a link to a new youth site on lds.org's website. Then today at church Katy was told that the picture is on posters downtown advertising. Well I have learned my lesson through this. If anywhere on temple square have a smile on your face and try to look good because you NEVER know what will show up in a church magazine.

Easton

2011-03-20T18:55:00.000-07:00

We were trying to get some pictures of Easton here is what we got.

Heather, Andrew, Ella, and Easton came for a quick visit after they left I realized I didn't take many pictures. So watch for Heathers blog I am sure she will post something. We had a great time and as always loved playing with Ella and Easton. Today we skyped Jared, Celyn, and Jocelyn and it made us lonesome for them too. We miss all you people so far away!!!! Including Mom and Dad in South Africa. Thanks for your phone call on Monday it meant a lot!

St. Patricks Day!

2011-03-20T18:39:00.001-07:00

Well this is a little late but I thought I would put in a St. Patricks day post. I (Emily) had strep the beginning part of the week and it really wore me out. Luckily I was feeling better by St. Patricks day. At school we had a leprechaun come and make some messes in our classroom but in turn left us some Lucky Charms to sort and graph and some chocolate coins for a treat. They thought it was pretty cool. In the afternoon I got together with some dear friends and we painted and had a good time just talking. I have decided I wanted some more

St. Patricks decorations so I expanded my collection this year. That night Brent had a soccer game and scored two goals he was pretty excited about that. We then finished the night by a trip to Zupas which is always yummy!!!

Here is something I made a couple of years ago...I keep hoping that it will send us good luck. :)

My project that didn't get done until St. Patricks day...Oh well I will have it for next year.

I splurged and bought these shamrocks and while I was so sick my Mom made me this cute St. Patricks banner. Thanks MOM!!!

Aiden's Third Birthday!

2011-03-14T08:59:00.002-07:00

It is amazing to think how time has gone by. Three years ago today, Emily and I had a special moment with our little Aiden. It wasn't easy but it will be a day that will live in our memories for the rest of our lives. Our time was short with our little Aiden but the impact can almost not be described. We see each child born into this earth as a miracle. As we've watched our nieces and nephews come into this world we feel the love of our little angel. We take much joy in getting to know the sweet spirits of our nieces and nephews because we know they each have met our little Aiden and they bring his love with them to us. We love them all! We are excited for our cousins, Emily and Brent Gray. Who, after many trials, will welcome their first born into this world. Our prayers are with them that all will be well. Miracles do happen!

Emily gave me a gift this last year that I do cherish and love. She put our experience with our little Aiden into a book and had it printed. I feel today is a great day to share that book with others. I made a video of the book. After I had made the video and posted it I realized the quality of the video isn't such that the words could be read, so I am sorry.

I want to say how much I Love Emily! She is my best friend and I love her very much. I know we will be with our Aiden again one day. Happy Birthday Aiden!

Bridal Shower...

2011-03-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

My Mom had a shower for her cousin Bonnie a week ago and I helped her a little bit with it. We had a great time and my Mom did a great job at color cordinating it all. Here are some pictures from the evening.

Bonnie the Bride

All the YUMMY food.

Bonnie opening gifts.

Some of the decorations. I made the banner with my cricut and my neighbor came over and taught us how to make these puff ball.

St. George

2011-02-22T19:53:00.000-08:00

Us...trying to keep the snow out of our faces.

Snow...Snow...Snow...

A house built into the lava rock.

How would you like that view out your bedroom window??? :)

For presidents day weekend we went to St. George to get away for a couple of days hoping for some warmth. Well we were able to get away but not from the snow. We decided to go to the St. George parade of homes and on our ways out to Ivins it was a blizzard. We had a good time but the weather wasn't any better than Salt Lake. We had a great time seeing all the homes and spending sometime with Andy and Em. Thanks for coming with us !

Valentines Day!

2011-02-22T19:21:00.000-08:00

Some of my classes Valentines Sacks. I wish I could post pictures of my class from that day. At my school they have something called post office days. Where parents, grandparents, and friends in different classes can put Valentines in a huge mailbox in the front hall. Then the Kindergartners are the postman for the day. They had little mail caps and went class to class delivering the mail. They thought it was great and it made them feel big. :)

This year for Valentines Day we had a pretty typical day in our life. Since I went part time it has been nice to be able to have lunch with Brent almost everyday. We are blessed that he works so close to home and can come home for an hour. When we woke up that morning Brent had left a rose for me on the counter and a card. He also set out the Valentines cards that his parents had e-mailed from South Africa. (Thank you Mom and Dad we loved the cards). We when went to work and met at Mimis for lunch. It was YUMMY. Brent then went back to work and I went home. When I got home I found a clean house!!! I had left quite a mess in my house that morning from getting ready for Valentines day at school. Brent had gone into work a little late and had cleaned everything up. I was so grateful I felt like crying. I then wanted to go and heart attack Brent's car. I got everything ready and found a automatic key opener for his car. When I got to Brents work the key thing didn't work. I was so bummed! The wind was blowing really hard so I just taped a couple on some windows and hoped that they wouldn't blow away. I wasn't able to leave him a book I had made on Shutterfly of our trip to the Outer Banks for our 5th anniversary. So that had to wait till he got home. When Brent got home Brent gave me a full bouquet of roses and the wii game "Just Dance" . I was pretty excited. He really likes his book too. We then had dinner at my parents house and exchanged Valentines with everyone. My mom gave us some blueberries that were wonderful!!! We had dinner with everyone on Valentines day because my Mom wanted to celebrate 25 years of living in their home. They moved in on Valentines day 25 years ago. She had us all share what memories we had of living in that house. She invited my Grandparents to thank my Grandpa for building it. It was a different Valentines dinner but we really enjoyed it! We love that we have a day every year to tell those we love the most how much we appreciate and love them.

HAPPY FEBRUARY!!!

2011-02-02T12:15:00.001-08:00

We are so excited its February!!! Yea! NO MORE JANUARY! Being home in the afternoons I have been able to have more time to do crafty things and things I have wanted to do for years. This is one of them. For the past couple of years I have made and ordered a calendar from shutterfly but this year I wanted something different. A couple of years ago Brent gave me a calendar maker for my cricut and I always wanted to try it. So this year I made one! at the beginning of each month I will post my calendar page to celebrate the start of a new month!

February calendar page

Friends

2011-02-02T12:03:00.001-08:00

I (Emily) have always said that I was so blessed to have so many wonderful friends from many different parts of my life. This past week I was reminded once again how blessed Brent and I are with the friends in our life. I had a friend give me this necklace. It is nothing big but it meant a lot to me. They didn't know what a hard week I had been having and how much a simple thing like that would mean to me. Thank you so much! You know who you are! ;)

The necklace with Aidens name on it. With a jewel from the month he was born.

A New Year and Looking Back on 2010!

2011-01-12T15:47:00.000-08:00

Top Ten of 2010!!!

These are in no particular order they were all important to us this year!

1. Celebrating our 6th anniversary

2. Going to Las Vegas to see the Lion King

3.Going to DISNEYLAND

4. Brent graduating from the U of U....YEA!!!

5. Brent getting a engineering job at Sorenson Communications

6. Emily going part time and being moved to a new school- It has been a good move...I do miss the people at Plymouth though

7. Going to St. George with Andy and Em for Presidents day

8. NEW FLOORS and PAINT in our house.

9. Going to Memphis for Thanksgiving...and a new nephew that came the day after we came home

10. Seeing Brent's parents leave on a mission to South Africa!

Our hopes for 2011

We as every year have high hopes for a new year. Its time to start out fresh and set new goals. We hope this year to be able to travel a little, maybe go see my parents and sibling perform in Nauvoo??? Maybe a trip to Texas to see a new Nephew? Maybe a anniversary trip? Who knows where we will end up. We might have to wait and see how far our money goes. :)

As always we have hope that maybe this is our year...Maybe this is our year to have a baby that is healthy and strong? We are being more aggressive with fertility treatments starting with taking some new medication.We will just have to wait and see. This has brought us close together and we have faith that it is not in our hands. Thank you for all of you that support us no matter which direction we choose!

May this year be a good one to all who read this! We are all so blessed!

Easton's Blessing

2011-01-12T15:36:00.001-08:00

Easton on his BIG day!

Me and my sisters!

Hannah and Jocelyn

All my grandparents great grandchildren...minus Aiden...oh how my heart ached for just a moment...but aren't they all so precious!

Easton and I on his big day!

We were exhausted after this weekend! To much fun!

We all had a rough week the next week with lots of people sick and very tired. I think we are starting to recover somewhat...Hence why it took so long to catch up on my blog.

New Years Day!

2011-01-12T15:27:00.000-08:00

Jocelyn and I...oh how I love this girl!

Playing yet MORE GAMES!

Getting ready for breakfast!!!

We had our traditional Breakfast on New Years day of Spoon bread and Sausage. We then that night went and had dinner and played games at my Grandmas that night.

New Year's Eve Evening

2011-01-12T15:03:00.000-08:00

Our New Years Crowns...We look a little silly!

Playing the Wii

CATAN!!!

Playing the best game!

Jared with Ella and Jocelyn

We didn't do anything spectacular on New Years Eve. We stayed home and ordered Chinese Food and played games. It was way to cold to be outside Brrrr....

New Years Eve Morning

2011-01-12T14:52:00.000-08:00

We had a great New Years Eve with lots of family. In the morning we went to my Uncle Todds for a family breakfast because it was my cousin Ben's birthday.

The girls wanting to go out in the snow.

Happy Birthday Ben!!!

Some serious ping pong at my uncle Todds

My cousin Andrea's Hannah, Ella, and Jocelyn

Jared, Celyn, and Jocelyn

2011-01-12T13:23:00.000-08:00

Ella trying to tell Jocelyn, "Hey I have that sweater too." Brent and I gave them these sweaters for Christmas.

Katy and the Girls

Jocelyn was really saying, "Come here Ella".

We had Christmas again once Jared and Celyn got here. Jocelyn loved it!

There Christmas in Utah. Jocelyn has gotten so big and is talking a TON!

Jared, Celyn, and Jocelyn came for a short visit over the Holidays. We were so glad when they arrived safely. They came through a huge snow storm and weren't sure they were going to make it. We enjoyed having them stay at our house. These are some pictures of while they were here.

Christmas Day!

2011-01-10T21:30:00.000-08:00

We had a good Christmas. We usually go and have Christmas morning with my family. We like to watch everyone open their gifts. We also enjoy the company. We love giving to each other. Brent's favorite gifts were his new scriptures and a remote control helicopter. I was excited about my new laminator and cricut cartridges. The time we spent with family was probably our favorite gift combined!

Waiting to open gifts.

Cute Ella opening her stocking.

Carl Bloch

2011-01-10T19:57:00.000-08:00

Ella, "Just a minute please". :)

Spencer and his friend Julia

Katy and my Dad

I think we looked stuffed!

Oh Man I have a headache! :)

Over Christmas break my my dad got us tickets to go to the Carl Bloch pictures down at BYU. They were really awesome to see...he was so talented. After we went over to the brick oven for some pizza. It was lots of fun!

Luminaries/Christmas Eve

2011-01-10T17:35:00.000-08:00

Every Christmas our family does luminaries as our neighbor gifts we do luminaries on Christmas Eve night. We never take pictures but decided to do so this year. The weather was the best it has ever been. There was no wind and it wasn't to cold.

I just love that you can see leaves on the trees...It looks like fall not Christmas...:)

Lighting the luminaries

All bright and beautiful

When we woke up the next morning and some were still burning.

Brent thinking his pj's are pretty cool. :)

Sarah, Katy, and Spencer

Our New Jammies

Waiting to open the first gifts of Christmas...I don't care how old I get its not Christmas without new pajamas

Brent playing with Ella

The Angel and two wise men

Ben, Katy, and Spencer

Dahlias Blessing

2011-01-10T17:34:00.000-08:00

Katy and Ella...I love Ella's Christmas dress!!!

Emily's family with Andy, Molly and Dahlia

The Sunday before Christmas we had the opportunity to go and see my cousins baby blessed. We had a great time and were able to take some family pictures.

Temple Square

2011-01-10T12:30:00.001-08:00

As we have in the past we went downtown and saw the lights at temple square and go out to dinner as a family. It was a beautiful night and not to cold.

We LOVE this temple!!!

At dinner...I didn't feel so good so I look a little tired.

Cute Ella

Katy, Spencer, and Sarah

Happy Birthday Brent!!!

2011-01-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

Brent's new game!

Happy 29th!!!

I decided this year that Brent might get store bought cakes from now on because its hard to find time to bake cakes the week of Christmas. Thanks Costco the cakes were yummy!

Brent had a birthday on December 20th. We spent the whole weekend Celebrating. The Saturday before his birthday we went and met our friends Mike and Shara at Rodizio Grill. It was really yummy and we had a great time catching up with them. Thanks for the idea Shara and Mike. On his actual birthday Brent took the day off and after I was done with work we went up to the outlets in Park City and did some Christmas shopping. We then had an open house type birthday party all night at our house. Thanks to all who came!

Memphis Part 2

2010-12-15T12:22:00.000-08:00

On day 6 we went to church with Heather and Andrew. After church we decided to go foe a drive. We drove out to a lake and went for a little walk.

This was our transportation for the week. It was awesome. We had asked for a minivan so we could go places as a group and this is all they had when we got there. What a HUGE blessing it was! We weren't smashed into a van and we felt very safe in this vehichle. Brent is now really wanting his own Suburban or even a Tahoe would be nice. ;)

Brent and I walking up the trail

My Mom, Katy, and Ella

The bugs there are HUGE! Yikes!

The lake...which I am not even going to try to spell its name. :)

Day 5

Brent and I at the Catfish place

Day 5 of our Memphis trip. I didn't take a lot of pictures but here is what we did. Heather took us that morning to this store called Gordmans. IT WAS AWESOME! They have hard back childrens books and board books for near nothing! I found some books I have been wanting for a long time but just can't pay $15-$20 for it. I found them for $2-$5 dollars. Needless to say we had to find places to put books to get them home. I am sure the security at the airport was wondering why ALL our carryons were full of childrens book. Maybe thats why they made Brent unload his WHOLE bag and why I got the royal pat down. :) That night we went to this whole in the wall place because they are famous down there for their catfish. This is where Brent found out he likes catfish and I don't really care for it. Oh well

Memphis part 1

2010-11-26T15:56:00.001-08:00

We are having a great time with Heather, Andrew and Ella. NO baby yet :( but we hope before we leave. We had a long trip that started with a 4 hour layover in Dallas, then a 2 hour car ride from Little Rock to Southhaven Mississippi. We got to Heathers about 2 a.m. Here are the first four days...

Day 4-Black Friday in Collierville, Tennesse

We went to this outdoor mall with all these over sized Christmas decorations. They were so cool looking.

We went to the Crepe Maker...It was so Yummy...worth a trip to Tennessee for...

Thanksgiving!!!

Pumpkin Pie and Coconut banana cream. I made the crusts...one was really nasty, and one was o.k. I am still learning.

Ready to eat!!!

Our lovely dinnerware...:)

Heathers two tables makes one that is big enough for all of us.

stirring the gravy

Brent loves little Ella...she is not so sure about any of us

Day 2- We went down to the riverpark, Corkey BBQ, had a birthday party, and had a small baby shower. whew what a day!

Something I made for the new baby...Can you guess his name??? ;)

I made another car seat cover I am getting better with experience...I feel like I was just making Heather a car seat cover for Ella...wait I was. : )

Heather with all her gifts.

We had a Birthday party for Ella before the baby shower. They have taught her to be so clean that she didn't want to even touch it.

Ella with her presents... Thanks for waiting for us to open them.

River park trail...look at the sign below...I didn't go any further.

We thought the Jordan River Parkway was bad...Yikes I don't want a snake on my head...my sister Heather also said that in the deep woods there are alligators..No thanks I don't need to go for a walk here thanks.

These poles indicate the flood levels for floods that are 1-10 years, 1-20 years, 1-50 years, 1-100 years and 1-200 years. crazy to see how high the water levels can get over a huge area.

Rocking chairs looking over the Mississippi River...We didn't stay long here because a enormous bug on my back that wouldn't come off..eeekkk

It was a beautiful day! It was about 75 degrees and slightly humid.

Mississippi River

These two boys love being together...we took them shopping and they followed us around playing Catan on Brent's I-pod. They were good sports.

Ella Bella...She is so fun to be with!

Day 1- The traveling day

Dallas-Fort Worth Airport...Katy was so excited to spend 4 hours in the same place as her missionary although he had no clue she was so close

Katy also enjoyed her first flight...that she can remember!

On Thanksgiving day we are truly Thankful for...

2010-11-25T10:15:00.000-08:00

So many, many blessings, but the biggest blessing in our life... our little Aiden

Thanksgiving 2007...I was pregnant but didn't know it. :)

Brent holding our little guy...

We know people get tired of us saying that but he is our little boy and we love and miss him. We are truly grateful to call such a perfect spirit ours and he is always in our hearts and minds. We are grateful for the the short time we had with him. We are grateful for all the times we feel him near. We are so blessed to be an eternal family so we will all be together someday for Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving to all!!! We are so blessed!!!

On the eleventh day of Thanksgiving...We are truly Thankful for...

2010-11-24T10:06:00.000-08:00

Sunshine!!!

We are grateful for the moisture we received in Salt Lake but come on who doesn't love the sunshine! We are truly grateful we are where there is sunshine today!!! We are in Southhaven Mississippi and it is 79 degrees! We are truly grateful we will be able to spend sometime outside in the sunshine today because it is supposed to get colder by the weekend here. We are grateful for sunshine not matter where we are. :)

On the Tenth Day of Thanksgiving...I am truly Thankful for...

2010-11-22T22:45:00.000-08:00

BRENT...

He doesn't know I am doing this, but this will post while we are in the air flying to Memphis so he can't change it...HE HE HE

I am SO Thankful for Brent every minute. He is my best friend and he is the kindest most patient person on the planet. He would do anything for me and loves me unconditionally. Sorry this is kinda sappy but sorry folks its true. :) I love you and I hope you know how grateful I am for you!!!!

On the Ninth day of Thanksgiving...We are truly Thankful for...

2010-11-22T22:36:00.000-08:00

Our Washer and Dryer!!!

I know its silly, But have you ever tried washing clothes by hand? NOT FUN!!! Every week I am grateful that I have clean clothes because of these two. Not only clean clothes but should I mention clean sheets, blankets, and a nice warm towel out of the dryer. I am Thankful for it ALL! :)

On the eighth day of Thanksgiving...We are Truly Thankful for...

2010-11-21T14:17:00.000-08:00

The Gospel...

I thought this was an appropriate thing to be thankful for on Sunday. We are so blessed to be members of such an amazing true church. We are blessed to have a Savior that atoned for our sins. We are so blessed to be able to listen to a latter day prophet and follow his guidance. We know that this gospel is true and are grateful for the blessings it provides us. We are grateful for our callings and the ways that they help us grow. We are grateful for the opportunities to share the gospel with others, although we need to be better at this. As long as we hold firm to the gospel we will be blessed and for that we are truly thankful.

On the Seventh day of Thanksgiving... We are truly Thankful for...

2010-11-20T14:24:00.000-08:00

FRIENDS!!!

We are so blessed with great friends. We have friends that are such a great support to us and we look up to all of you! We want to be like all of you when we grow up. :) We have been blessed our whole life with good friends. We both had great groups of friends from high school, junior high and even elementary school that we still have contact with. We are so grateful for friends that we made while going to college. I feel that I went to Utah State mostly just to meet the people that I meet while there. We are grateful for our co-workers who are our friends. We are last of all grateful for those family members that are also friends. Its one thing to be family its another to be friends! We love you all and are Thankful for you in our lives.

On the Sixth Day of Thanksgiving...We are truly Thankful for...

2010-11-20T14:18:00.000-08:00

Our Health...

We are both generally healthy people. We do have a few issues here and there but nothing to complain about. I can count on one hand the number of days Brent has not felt well since we were married. He is just one healthy guy! I on the other hand work with little ones so in turn they are nice to share germs. I am grateful that I have built up a immunity to some of it. Every day is a blessing when we are not sick!

On the Fifth day of Thanksgiving...We are truly Thankful for...

2010-11-18T12:03:00.000-08:00

Our Jobs!

We are so blessed to have the jobs we have. During these economic down times any job is good. We are blessed to both have jobs and love what we do. Brent is really enjoying being an engineer and I am loving being part time with my little class. We are truly thankful for our jobs!!!

On the Fourth day of Thanksgiving...we are truly thankful for...

2010-11-17T21:30:00.000-08:00

SLEEP!!! After a long day of parent teacher conference (which was probably the easiest I have ever done but still exhausting) . I am grateful for a bed to come home and SLEEP in...I know Brent is grateful too because he spent all night painting our island red...It looks like a barn we will post pictures later. :)

On the Third day of Thanksgiving...We are truly Thankful for...

2010-11-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

Education

We are both so grateful for the education that we have been able to obtain. We are Thankful to both be college graduates. It was not easy to do but we are grateful that this year we can both call ourselves college graduates!!! We are so blessed!

On the second day of Thanksgiving we are truly thankful for...

2010-11-15T19:00:00.000-08:00

Our Families...

We are so blessed to both be born of goodly parents. We are also both blessed with AWESOME brothers and sisters who we love dearly. One of our favorite things to do is to be with family. We are also thankful for the support that our families give to us when things are hard or celebrating our accomplishments. We LOVE all our neices and nephews and are grateful for an time we get to spend with you!!! Love You All!

On the first day of Thanksgiving....We are truly Thankful for...

2010-11-14T18:00:00.000-08:00

OuR HoMe!!!

We are so grateful for our home. We love our little house!t It is our little sanctuary! We love being home. We are so grateful that we are able to live here. We love the changes we have made to it to make it ours. I ( Emily) had the opportunity to go down to soup kitchen last week with the young women and I was reminded how blessed I am to have place to sleep and be sheltered.

The Cutest Little Bee!

2010-11-03T20:36:00.000-07:00

This is my sister Heathers little girl Ella. She has to be the cutest little bee we ever saw. I borrowed from my sisters blog because it was so adorable!!! Thanks Heather for letting me borrow your daughter for my blog!!! I can't wait to see you in under three weeks!!!! YEA!!!!

Off to South Africa

2010-11-03T20:17:00.000-07:00

Brent's parents left for South Africa on Monday. Brent had the opprotunity to go see them off. We are going to miss them a ton but they will be awesome missionaries!

The final goodbye.

Going through security

All the luggage...not bad for two years

My sister-in-law Kim made these awesome Chocolates for the farwell! I just loved these cute missionaries.

Halloweekend! :)

2010-11-03T18:44:00.000-07:00

We had a super busy Halloween weekend. We had a great time with family. Friday night we went to Chris and Katie's house (Brent's Cousin) for a pumpkin carving party. We had a great time! Thanks Katie and Chris! Saturday I had a family wedding shower and as soon as it was over my mom's family came over and we carved pumpkins and had a feast! We had homemade mac and cheese with caremel apples, salad, chips and salsa, and candy corn cupcakes. Then finished the day off with trick o treaters and a visit from Andy, Em, and Owen. Sunday I (Emily) got a new calling. I got called to be the young womens secretary. It should be good...back to young womens I go. :) We then had a Giles family party so we could say our final goodbyes to Brent's pareents. Here are some pictures from all those events.

Candy Corn Cupcakes

All the Duzett clan that were there.

Brents Pumpkin- He also carved one Friday that I didn't get a picture of.

Emily's Pumpkin- I found these cutters made to make cut outs in pumpkins...They worked o.k.

Olivia and Emma

Mom and Dad Giles the night before there flight to South Africa

Its a crazy life....but we love it...

2010-10-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

Jared, Celyn, and Jocelyn came up for a short visit over conference weekend. We promptly filled everyday full. I was grateful that I had the afternoons off so we could go do fun things like go to Park City, and Gardner Village.

Katy, Jocelyn, and I

Jocelyn with a witch...She wasn't so sure about

Jocelyn and Celyn-While they were here Jocelyn all let us know that she is going to become a big sister in May. Congrats Jared and Celyn

The boys playing games at my Grandparents house.

Jocelyn loves her Brent...She would say to me, "my Brent" so I would say, "my husband" and she would reply back, "my husband".

Jocelyn...My favorite part of her being here was her saying, "Emmy do it". She would bypass everyone else to let me do something even if it was just to put her to bed. I love you Jocey!

Katy and Jocelyn

This past week I went to a baby shower for my cousin Molly...Here are the pictures from that..

This Cute elephant cards.

The Parfait Buffet

Andrea made this cute banner with the name of Molly's baby on it.

Brent wanted me to include the pictures of his chip he wanted me to post...he is pretty proud of his chip. He had to take this picture through a microscope. Oh boy do I LOVE that boy!!!

Some of the cousins at Jocelyn's birthday party

Jocelyn making sure everyone got a hug for the gifts that were given.

Jocelyn and Emmy...as she calls me

Jocelyn and Olivia

Jocelyn with some her gifts.

The girls...minus my mom who was taking the picture. Just outside the Gateway

My Aunt Janae and cousin Abby

Andrea, Aunt Leann, and Molly

My mom, Katy and I at California Pizza Kitchen after the Relief Society Meeting

Spencer and his homecoming date Julia. After the dance Spencers group came and watched Cloudy with the Chance if Meatballs. in our backyard from a projector. They seemed to have a good time, but I don't know how I used to stay out that late and not fall asleep.

Well life has seemed to slow down for a minute. We have been really busy and I am still trying to get used to my new school. We have had lots of family events on both sides of our families. We also had visitors from El Paso. Life is good and we are so grateful for all our many blessings. Hope you enjoyed the many pictures. :)

60th Wedding anniversary!!!

2010-09-19T13:46:00.000-07:00

My Grandma Duzett and I. I love this woman so much I just don't know what we will do without her!!! Love you Grandma...

All the grandkids and spouses...minus Brent and Emily in London, Heather, Andrew, and Ella in Mississippi. Jared, Celyn, and Jocelynn in El Paso and Jennifer in Georgia.

Grandma and Grandpa Duzett

My mom with her parents and siblings.

The best fresh peach pie EVER! My grandma makes the best pie crusts

This past week my(Emily) grandparents celebrated there 60th wedding anniversary. So on Saturday night we had a family party to celebrate. We had great food, my uncle Todd made an amazing slide show of pictures from the last 60 years, and we were able to take some pictures. I love my granparents and I look up to them A LOT. I can't imagine life without them. Thanks to all those who put it together it was a night I don't think we will ever forget.

Good Bye Plymouth...Hello Cottonwood Elementary

2010-09-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

Cindy Jewkes, me and Stacy Wilson Kindergarten Team at Plymouth...We made a good team we would have done some amazing things together...Good Luck ladies I already miss you!!! We were outside having our teddy bear picnic...Cindy suggested that we do it my last day and I really appriciate being there for it. :)

Me, Jackie Boddell, and Cindy Jewkes... It has been hard to leave these two behind...Jackie was my aid and you couln't find a better aid out there. She saved me on multiple occasions and it was often nice to have another adult in the room. Cindy and I have worked together all five years while I was at Plymouth and she has been a huge help and I learned a lot from her. I can't imagine working with anyone else. I LOVE you both!

This past week I was surplused. :( I knew that this was a possiblity when I went part-time because I lost my senority with in my school. We still felt like it was what I was to do. It was harder then I thought it would be to say good bye to my class and all the people that I love at Plymouth. It made me feel good when I had so many people and parents upset that I was leaving it made me feel appreciated. I had several people call the HR department and tell them they bettter take good care of me. Cottonwood Elementary is a whole new world for me compared to where I have taught before. I am grateful for my student teaching experience because I believe that the demographics and parents are somewhat similiar to Cottonwood. Here are some pictures from my last day at Plymouth.

Lava Hot Springs

2010-09-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

Our car, us and our tent. :) It was a great place to camp except the train that would go buy once an hour ALL night. I actually slept better than Brent!

pretty views on our drive

James, Brandon, Brent, Kierra, and Rebekah playing bocce.

Little Kellie...She was fun to be with! She learned how to open our shoe door to our tent and slip in our tent...We thought it was hilarious!!!

Over labor day we had an opprotunity to go to Lava Hot Springs with Brents Brother Dave and his family. We learned a lot about camping and what to do and not to do, We were able to swim play games, and just be together. Thanks for inviting us Dave and Rebekah!

August

2010-08-31T14:23:00.000-07:00

Ella was such a trooper we drug her all over!

At the Giles reuinion...I decided to just hold my balloon because I don't like popping balloons. yikes!!!

Playing the balloon popping game
They all had thumbtacks on their heads
Up the canyon with the Duzetts

Well August seemed to fly by. We did a lot and I have been busy getting ready for school to start. So far I only have 19 students. Which is wonderful compared to the 30+ kids I have started with in the past. The only negative to that is, it probably won't stay that way. I will probably be moved out of the school or to a different grade. :( but we feel good about me being part time and feel that wherever I end up as hard as it could be I will be happy. So stay tuned life could get interesting. Well as for all we did in August here it goes. We started the month with a short trip to Bear Lake with friends. When I say short I mean we got there at 5 at night and left by 8 the next morning. thanks Kyle and Steph for lettings us come for the night. I was able to do lots of stuff while Brent was at work everyday. I went and saw ALL the parade of homes with my Mom, Heather and Andrew and Katy, Spencer, and Sarah. I think I learned from that experience that I don't want to live anywhere else and I LOVE my house. We all went to Park City for the day to shop, sadly again Brent had to work. :( Brent was able to come when my parents, and Heather and Andrew all went up to Brigham City to eat at the Maddox. We had our ten year reunion, which was pretty interesting to see how some people have changed and how some have not. I forgot my camera everywhere we went so sorry this is mostly a written post. We went up the canyon with family. MANY late night Katan games with Sarah, Katy, Spencer, Heather and Andrew. The Giles family reunion and I went to BYU education week. I love BYU education week. I love the various things you can learn. Now its back to reality and with Jared and Celyn in El Paso and Heather and Andrew in Mississippi things have gotten quiet. We miss you all!!! Come back soon!!!

Spencer :)

2010-08-28T15:01:00.000-07:00

Spencer is often smiling!!!

Spencer is always off on some adventure...

Spencer loves the guitar its his new favorite class at school

Spencer loves to create things!

What a smile!

Spencer loves to drive...even if its the autotopia ride in Disneyland

Spencer loves his nieces!!!

Spencer can often be found eating. :)

I was looking through our pictures the other day and noticed we have a quite a few pictures of just Spencer. So I thought I should use just a few of those pictures and do a post about my "little" brother Spencer. Spencer is 17 and is a senior which just blows my mind. Spencer is kind to everyone and is always the first one to ask me how my day was. He is extremely positive and is always looking for the good in others and the situation. He is always making us laugh. Spencer we are so glad your in our family and we LOVE you!!!

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

2010-08-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

California Day 1: We called this day the best of both worlds day because we went to Disneyland in the morning and Newport Beach in the afternoon. The only problem was that the beach was freezing!

Sitting outside the best seafood restaurant in Newport the Crab Cooker!!!

We took the ferry over to Balboa island and the wind was blowing so the sailboats were going crazy!

Looking at Balboa island from the ferry

Eating our Balboa bars and frozen bananas

Day 2: We went to Disneyland all day. We were there from about 7:30 a.m. till about midnight. We were really tired! We saw World of Color and loved it!!!

Ella enjoying world of color...We were all wondering what she was thinking of Disneyland

Day: 3 Sarah's Birthday!!! We walked into Disneyland and this nice man driving the firetruck said he would give us a ride to the castle for free!!!

All of us in the fire truck

On Dumbo...This was my favorite ride when I was little.

At the Blue Bayou...the restaurant inside pirates of the Caribbean

Singing to Sarah

Brent and Emily

We all wore green because that's Sarah's favorite color...

Day 4: My Dads friend owns a condo in Laguna Beach. So when we found out were going to be in California at the same time they invited us down for the day.

All of us exploring...Don't mind how terrible we look...we didn't care we were at the BEACH!!!

All the guys got together for a beached whale picture

The sunset at Laguna...it was GORGEOUS

This picture doesn't really give this picture justice but it was pretty awesome!!!

Ella not sure the sand is her thing

Day 5: We went to Disneyland and we took a break in the middle of the day and went to Islands grill...They have the best burgers!!!

Spencer, Katy, Dad, and Andrew playing X-box in innoventions

We decided to take our picture in front of the "A" in honor of our little Aiden!!!

We love you buddy!!! We missed you!!!

Pond Family Pictures

2010-07-28T12:02:00.001-07:00

This shot turned out pretty good but you can't really see everyone

US :)

Some of our favorite little people...We just wished they lived closer :(

Jocelyn giving Ella loves...but Ella doesn't seem to enjoy it

My parents and there kids still living at home

Emily, Ella, and Brent...

The whole crew...

Celyn, Jared, and Jocelyn

Andrew, Heather, and Ella

The three married siblings

I have had the hardest time blogging... It has taken me a month to post these pictures.

In June we were able to take some family pictures. We didn't know when we would be together again with Jared and Celyn now living in El Paso and Heather and Andrew in Memphis. I think they turned out pretty good.

Mission Call

2010-07-22T09:35:00.000-07:00

Brent's parents got there mission call yesterday. They are going to the Johannesburg South Africa temple mission for 23 months. They leave October 18th. We are so excited for them!!!

Camille and Jake's Wedding on our 6th Anniversary

2010-07-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

The Reception

My Contribution....I cut these letter out on my cricut and Emily Gray helped me put them on.

Pretty pots of flowers were all over my aunts yard

Heather, Katy, Emily, Mom, and Ella

Katy, Jocelyn, Heather and Ella

Brent's DJ helpers Will, Jocelyn, and Olivia

We wanted our picture taken by this tree the day we got married but it was blocked off. So 6 years later we thought we would give it a try. :) Happy Anniversary my love!

Jake and Camille

On June 24th Brent and I celebrated our Sixth wedding anniversary. We had the opprotunity that day to see my cousin Camille get married. It was a great way to spend our anniversary. Here are some pictures from that day.

Bear Lake Trip with the Giles

2010-07-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

The Cabin we stayed in Dave, Mike, Andy, and Brent

View from the Cabin

My Sister in-law Em brought up this fun little project for the kids to do one afternoon. They made little balloon animals.

Owen and Max on the beach.

Well I thought maybe I should catch up on some blogging. Brent has now run out of vacation days so I think we are stuck at home. I will start by posting some pictures of Bear Lake with the Giles. We rented a cabin with all the Giles the third week of June and had a great time together. We watched the world cup, played at the beach and played games. Thanks Mom and Dad Giles for getting it all together.

We have been busy!

2010-07-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

Who said that summer was relaxing??? I feel like I am busier than I was during the school year. We have been busy with a family wedding, a trip to Bear Lake with the Giles, visiting friends and Heather, Andrew and Ella are here!!! I hope to post somethings before we head off on our adventures in July. If not have a happy July!

Las Vegas!

2010-05-11T20:54:00.000-07:00

Outside the Theatre

In Front of the Aquarium at the Rain Forest Cafe

Rainforest Cafe

In M&M world we look a little tired!

The day after graduation Brent and I drove to Vegas to see the Lion King. We had a great time celebrating! The Lion King was amazing and we HIGHLY recommend it.

Brent's Graduation!!!

2010-05-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

Emily's Family that was there

Brent's Family that was there

YEA!!!

Off into the sunset!

It's Official

A little sign Emily made. :)

Brent with his cousin Alison

Graduation Announcment

We had a great day that we had both waited for a long time for. We started the day at commencement and we both really enjoyed the speakers. We then got some pictures with Brent's cousin Alison. We then went home and got packed for our post graduation trip that I will post about later. We then met both of our families at one of our favorite restaurants Cowboy Grub. It was great to be with family and we were able to share it with Emily's cousins Camille and Molly who both were graduating this spring also. So lots of graduates. We then went to Brent's convocation. Which was great to watch him walk. We truly feel blessed that he was able to graduate and are grateful for the journey. We believe that everything that has happened was what was suppose to happen. We then had everyone come to our house for dunford dounuts and ice cream...so much for the diet. :(

Spring!

2010-05-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

I am always happy to put the Spring bullentin board up because it means school is almost out. I just wish it would act like Spring and stop snowing so we could go outside for recess!!!