Mema and Pepa Arrive

Blake had a business trip to Boise this last weekend. He left Friday and didn't get back until late Sunday. Originally my mom was going to come and help. She's had neck problems (and will actually be getting surgery in 2 weeks), so then she wasn't going to come. But then, my dad had business in the Tri-cities so my mom decided to fly up on Wednesday and then my dad would join us Saturday and they would drive home Sunday. 

I am SO glad she was able to come. I know she felt bad because she isn't feeling 100%, but the kids LOVED having her and so did I. She made some delicious meals, bought way too many things for the boys and I was able to watch the Hunger Games and get some naps in.

My mom and Braden being creative with cardboard.

Snuggling Mr. Hunter.

My dad couldn't get enough of Hunter either. I titled this post Mema and Pepa. The kids call my mom Mema and Brody has a hard time saying Grandpa, so my dad has now been named Pepa because Brody can say it. It's quit cute actually.

The boys.

Not only did my mom buy them toys, but she also brought a full suitcase full of toys from her garage. (She's the director of a pre-school and stores all the toys in her garage. According to the kids, their garage is heaven.) She made it clear that these toys will need to go home with her. That didn't stop them from playing hard. She had a fort making set, these cool building structures and some really fun games.

Look at this happy boy. He was content to stay home and play. I really appreciate my mom for coming because she is always able to help me be a better parent. She has worked with young children for a long time now and teaches many parenting classes. I am so blessed to have her advice and experience because my kids wear me down. I mean literally, wear me down.

Brody somehow managed to talk Mema into letting him stay up late with her and read books, as well as sleep with her at night. Let's just say we had a hard time getting him to bed Sunday evening. Thanks mom.

Braden loved challenging the rules and trying (note the work try) to boss Mema around. He was successful some of the times. 

My parents are getting old. JK! I mean, they now have 4 grandsons and are thrilled. Although, my mom has some really cute girl clothes and has declared whoever has the first girl gets everything. I guess it will be a fight between Audrey, Mallory and I. However, we aren't planning on adding an addition to our family anytime soon, so I have a feeling my sisters will beat me and that's ok.

Thanks mom and dad for all your help, especially in calming me down Sunday (you know what I'm talking about). We look forward to seeing them again in about 3-4 weeks when we head down to Portland to see my brother who gets home from his mission tomorrow, woot woot!

Braden's Pre-School

This month Braden's pre-school has been focusing on community helpers. The teachers sent out an e-mail of pictures of all they have done so far. 

One of the parents is an EMT, so she came in and let them dress up in firemen outfits. She also spoke with them about fire safety (calling 9-1-1 and smoke detectors). They practiced a fire drill and had tons of fun. Notice Braden is the only one who isn't wearing a fire hat or jacket. He decided he wanted to wear his Power Ranger costume that day and Power Rangers don't wear firemen hats.

As one mother is an EMT, her husband is an actual fire fighter. The kids took a tour to the fire station where they got to explore the fire trucks and ambulances.

They also had a manners fairy arrive for a special manners tea party. They learned table etiquette and all things manner oriented. I wish I could say this sunk in for Braden, but no, he still prefers to eat with his hands.

Braden's favorite visitor was the Police Man. Well, the one he talks about the most. I guess he got out his stun gun and explained to the kids what it does. What 4 year old little boy wouldn't LOVE this?

They had a fun St. Patrick's Day party.

They didn't have a picture, but a tooth helper came in and explained to the kids how to keep those teeth pearly white. Braden was stubborn that day and refused to go into the classroom. His loss.

Below are just some fun pictures the teacher sent me of Braden. I thought a collage might be best since there are so many. Click to enlarge.

They also had a vet come with some animals. Braden loved this. He still claims he wants to be a shark tooth doctor. More power to him. I don't know what the demand is for a shark tooth doctor, but I am sure Braden would excel.

We are still so happy with Braden's pre-school and are bummed they will not be open next year. His teachers are amazing and he is having some great experiences. 

First Official Days Alone

Starting Monday I was on my own. At least until my mom got here Wednesday. I think the hardest part was staying around the house. Yes, I am a stay at home mom, but I HATE staying at home. The boys did pretty great.

Especially this one. At least Braden had pre-school which got him out and about.

I did do some projects with Brody. Rainbow project compliments of Jacyln. Thank you very much!

I think I tend to baby Brody. This project made me realize that he is one smart cookie and even though his language isn't super strong, he still wants to create, learn and build. My goal is to challenge him more. I know the extra attention will also help with his behavior, as I tend to ignore him the most. It's hard to ignore Braden since he's speaking all the time and there's no way to ignore Hunter as he's attached to me for the next several months. I need to spend more time with my middle child.

He really is adorable and just loves his baby brother.

I love the way he is looking at his brother. So cute!

Since I have been trying to engage Brody more, he has been exhausted. We put a movie on in the afternoon and he fell asleep upright.

I laid him down, but he still continued to nap for about 3 hours even while Braden and I were playing loudly. I think he's going through a growths spurt. (Braden took this picture.)

 Braden also took this picture. Let's just say that his been into the camera lately. It will occupy him for hours.

 My little babe isn't so little anymore. He had his 10 day checkup and he was already 10 pounds 12 ounces and 22 inches. Can you believe it? He's off the charts.

I guess we just ware them down. I love my boys.

It wasn't so bad being in charge of 3. I even took them to the store by myself. It was a quick trip, but still successful. I also managed to bring the 2 little ones to the library while Braden was in school. I think I will be ok, as long as I get sleep.

More with Cousin

The pictures I posted last time were taken by Audrey. These are from our camera.

Braden showing Uncle Toren how to play Where's my Water and Angry Birds.

Our first official family photo. I don't know why we didn't get one in the hospital, but we didn't. My 4 favorite boys.

Hunter couldn't get enough snuggles from Uncle Toren.

2 Silly Cousins.

Toren & Audrey Visit

My brother Toren was doing some work up in Coeur d'Alene (an 1 1/2 away) and called to see if he, Audrey and Austin could come visit for the weekend. I couldn't have family that close and say no, plus I knew Braden and Brody would love to see their cousin and Hunter wanted some aunt and uncle snuggles. They arrived late Friday evening and left early Sunday morning, but it was enough for the boys to get a little crazy.

Brody and Austin were going crazy inside, so when the weather cleared up, we kicked them outside.

Uncle Toren hardly put this little boy down.

Braden loved being silly for the camera (p.s. all these pictures were taken by Audrey).

The cousins loved playing with each other. We can already tell that we will need to keep a close eye on Austin and Brody throughout their lives. We just don't trust them. I have a feeling Braden will be the ring leader.

Austin recognized Hunter's existence every once in awhile.

Mostly, he loved wrestling and playing with the older boys. He is so stinkin cute. How did I get the cutest nieces and nephews in the world? I don't know, but I'm blessed.

 And of course, an amazing sister-in-law who also got tons of snuggle time.

They were here for Blake's birthday celebration. Braden bought trick candles and loved watching daddy try to blow them out. We all had to help keep them out.

It was nice and quiet why they were eating cake.

Mr. Hunter and his strong neck. What a chunk! We are still so in love with him.