Brandon . Ash . Bennett

"Trut" Birthday

2011-06-20T00:52:00.000-07:00

Bennett requested a truck birthday party. Oh, and a truck birthday party we had! It was a blast - and a lot of work - but oh so worth it to see his face when he arrived at his very own 'construction zone'...

No, but really - Bennett was probably the only one who noticed the truck signs (he still has them).

Bennett's "twinner" cousin - born 3 hours apart!

Proud Daddy & Uncle manning the BBQ

So - this lovely lady (my sister.in.law) and I spent a good amount of time creating this...

{I had a blast! Thanks for your help, Brand}

My mother.in.law asked where the cake was. It was placed between two real ones. Tee, hee! :)

The cake was a hit - his favorite part of the day for sure!

...

He stared at it for awhile and then just couldn't resist. I loved coming over to see his sweet hand print.

Just as it should be.

A little afraid of the flame.

Another highlight for the little ones...

My dad brought his fun little "tractor"/wheel barrel thingy for the kids to enjoy - and boy did they!!

Pinata time!!

{thanks to all who came and celebrated with us}

Checking out his loot. No surprise that his favorite gifts were black and yellow...

At the end of the day, we were so thrilled that the cake was yummy and that the favors were fun ... but when the balloons were popped and the cones stacked up I realized that the most important part of my day was this...

The most important part of my day is now a toddler.

Always my baby but no longer a baby.

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy.

I love you - you and the trucks that line our living room.

xoxo,

Mommy

{yours} photography

2011-06-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things to do is to snap photos of this little man...

This favorite thing of mine turned into a passion of all things photography. So - I am happy to announce that I am finally starting my very own photography business. I feel fortunate to capture priceless moments for people to cherish forever.

Check out my blog and please let me know what you think. I would love any input from you - I have a ways to go and a great deal to learn but am grateful for any opportunity to grow.

Thanks guys!

yoursphotography.blogspot.com

getting bigger.

2011-05-27T22:20:00.000-07:00

We love this one. He is so full of spunk and sparkle.

Our very own spunk and sparkle will be two soon you know. He loves all that is truck related and is only excited to turn two because of all of this talk about a truck birthday party.

We ask him when his birthday is and he always says"truck".

"Well, yes, you are having a truck birthday party," I reply. "But when is your birthday?"

He replies in the 'how many times are you going to ask me tone'...

"June ten. Washington."

Washington - you might ask?

Well, I may or may not have taught him his birthday on the same day I taught him where we live. He's a smart one and likes to cover all his bases. Either that or he wants to get his mama off his back so he can get back to the important stuff - trucks and baseball.

happy to be his.

2011-05-08T15:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is true. I am happy to be his mama. Today and everyday.

Today was a special day for me. The breakfast in bed was delightful and the jewelry set Brandon and Bennett made me was priceless. I loved the LifeSaver mint necklace, the fruit loop bracelet and the dot candy ring. I wore them proudly to church. Bennett kept licking me. I loved it.

Those things made my day especially special - but what really made me want to smile today was how happy I am to simply be his... his mom. His shoulder to cry on. His cheerleader. His greatest fan. As a little girl I remember longing to be a mother. Longing to be the one person that could make my sweet baby calm, when others could not. I love those moments. I love Bennett's kisses and tight hugs. I love those little arms when they are wrapped tightly around my neck. I love the smiles he shares with me everyday. I love being a mother. His mother.

I am also very grateful for my mother. She is beautiful inside and out. She is inspiring. She is kind. She loves me. I am hers. I am grateful. I love you, Mom.

I am grateful for all of the mothers in my life. You are a blessing to me each and everyday. I love you.

xoxo,

ash

a wee little update

2011-03-21T13:39:00.001-07:00

Here goes a quick --- much needed update.

The winter here in good ole' Washington was rough. When I say rough, I mean a bit cold and rainy. The wet cold truly does get you to the bone. Bennett didn't mind it so much though. As long as he got to go to paint in his robe...

and play "baball" {basketball}...

and catch a "bayball" {baseball}...

and go to the "pok" {park}...

and play with his new buddy, "Buzz."

He sure is growing!

In addition, we are thrilled that Bennett wants to be just like his mom and dad when he is all grown up.... Let me explain.

He never goes anywhere without a "balls" in hand.

Here he is drawing in his big boy chair, waiting for his lunch to be served.

Note how he carefully placed the ball right next to him so he would be ready to jump back up to play after he finished his beloved "raisnns" {raisins}.

Yes, he is like his dad in that way. So, you are probably asking how he is like his mama, right? Well, please take a second look at the photo.... Under the table, perhaps? At his little feet? Yes, there he is with "mams" tennis shoe....

Those little toes of his are hanging on for dear life. He honestly cannot get enough of shoes. He loves them - Just like his mama!! We are very proud parents. ;)

back home.

2010-10-28T22:19:00.000-07:00

It's no surprise that so much has happened in the last 3 months. We packed up our little lives in Utah, said some sad goodbyes and moved to Whidbey Island, Washington. Yes, this is the very place I grew up, folks. It gets better - I live in the very house I grew up in {my parents live two hours away but kept the island home} and work part-time at the very elementary school I attended 14 years ago. Weird, right? That's what I thought. But -great, right? That's what I think! It has honestly been wonderful. The 'wonderfulness' came with some 'craziness'. I didn't realize how difficult it would be leaving dear friends and a place I called home. Moving to another state, with a curious {translation: a need to get into everything} little boy has been interesting. I think this picture sums it up...

Boxes, toys, and an unsnapped onesie. Love it.

Bennett is finally adjusting and seems to like it here.

His favorite place to play is his room.

With all of his toys.

The ball bin is his favorite.

He love love love love love love love loves his "dars" {cars} and "tuts" {trucks} and naturally has one in his hand about 80% of the time.

The other day I caught him loading his farm animals into the car and driving them around the house. He is such a crack up.

I am seriously obsessed with him.

He also loves to help mom cook.

He thinks its great to be close to his grandparents and cousins,

of course. ;)

Oh, and don't forget the Friday night football games. He can't get enough of it.

One of his favorite things to do is go to the "pak" {park}.

The castle park. The one mom used to go to.

He has grown so much. I am loving everyday with him. He has become such a good listener - all you have to do is calmly explain why he isn't supposed to be doing something and he will listen. Seriously! For awhile he was a wild child, but after a month of saying "NO!" every two seconds we realized WE were the ones that needed to do some adjusting... and it worked! He has turned into an angel child. Lucky? I think yes.

Although we truly miss our friends and family back in Utah, we are starting to feel at home here.

{and no, that's not our dog - it's Bennett's Aunt "Braee" a.k.a. Brandie}

oreos and milk mixed with pediasure.

2010-08-04T18:22:00.001-07:00

Where to begin? Not sure.

Well, how about that our little man is on one of the most desirable diets in the universe. Ice cream, Oreos, donuts, butter, lard, {dot, dot, dot}. No, really. He is. Bennett has struggled gaining weight due to some gastrointestinal issues. For a 4 month period he had CDiff, he struggled to sleep (I mean really struggled - inconsolable screaming for upwards of an hour about 12 times a night), pooped 6-12 times a day and was up against some bad, bad gas!!! He's always been an excellent eater and we have always worked hard to give him a healthy, balanced diet. So, you can imagine my surprise when the doctor said. "Let's try a high fat diet and let's put him on an appetite stimulant. What kind of high fat foods does he like?" I replied, "avocados, meat, peanut butter; you know, the healthy ones / ONLY ones I give him." He asked, "Does he like ice cream? Oreos?" My response: "Well, ya! He loves them!" His response: "Then give them to him three times a day." We left and went directly to the store to gather some super junky, super fatty foods for our baby. Odd. Yes, odd. But, 6 days later the scales finally read a different number... He gained a pound and a half!!! Amazing, right? Who would have thought searching every shelf at Smith's for the highest fat content item would pay off so quickly. Yay for Bennett and yay for donuts. We called to tell our parents the great news and after my dad shared our excitement he seemed a bit hesitant and asked "So, when do you turn it off?" Good question. The good news is that Bennett honestly prefers avocados and blueberries {"bibis"}.

Bennett's gassy sleep issues came to an abrupt end about a month ago. Over night, they stopped. Weirdest/best thing that has ever happened to us. Miraculous. The doctor told us, "I''m not sure what he had but it is the worst case of it I'd ever seen." We're not sure what it was either, but we are so thrilled he's grown out of it. So he now loves to sleep in his own crib, so much so that he won't go to sleep anywhere else! Funny how that works, huh? The other night after our bedtime routine, Bennett immediately climbed off my lap. I was fully prepared to jump up and chase him since I was sure he was just trying to run away from bedtime. Instead, he walked over to his crib and said "up peez." I honestly cried. My baby is growing up. My baby finally sleeps. My baby talks in twos.

Bennett is the funniest person I know. In the last month his personality has come to life - full force! He is talking like crazy and is on the go - literally. He started walking and hasn't stopped since. He is more than just reckless. He is out. of. control! It's like he is in his own little world made of balls, sticks, rocks and "dars" {cars}. He has absolutely no time to think about the wall he might run into or the pavement he might stumble on. His face has been bruised, bloodied and scraped more than once - and he doesn't seem to mind one bit. He has a mind of his own and is more determined and curious than ever. I love him. And for this very reason, this crazy kid of mine may never play sports - because his mother just may not be able to watch!

Speaking of sports, Bennett LOVES "base" {baseball}. Bennett won't sit for longer than 45 seconds to watch a Disney movie --- not for the life of him! But don't you worry, he'll sit still and watch 5 innings of baseball! He is his Daddy's baby! I can't even watch one inning without needing a substantial break. On top of that, his favorite book in the whole wide world is titled, "Touch'n'Feel Baseball." He brings it to us 15 times a day and says either "bo" {book} or "base"? And don't forget about Daddy's baseball games... Bennett loves to point out the "ba" and steal Daddy's hat! Brandon is in heaven, folks.

This summer we've had fun swimming, visiting the zoo, playing with friends and family, visiting Washington, getting crazy in Vegas {you know us} and much much more. I wish I had time to post the details. One day...

This year has been full of surprises - some good and some not so good. In the end and through it all we find ourselves lucky to have each other and to have such wonderful family and friends.

one.

2010-06-19T13:08:00.001-07:00

Hard to believe you're one. My little Benetron is one!

You have been a true joy. I love how you smile, how you cry {really it is the cutest puppy dog cry you've ever seen} and how you inspire me to be better every day. You are patient, kind and oh so wonderful.

You love "chichi" {chicken}, "ju" {juice} and "teets" {treats}. You always insists for "ma" {more}. You are so observant and always point out "di" {this} and "dat" {that}. You are intrigued by "sus" {shoes}, "hat" {hats} and "tis" (toys}. You can't go a day without a "da" {bath} or a "tes" {kiss}. You are always proud to show me your "tu" {tongue} and point to my nose when asked. You like "do" {dogs} but you love love love "du" {ducks} and think every flying object should be called one. You love to brush your five "ti" {teeth} and you may or may not throw a whopping fit if you don't get to when mommy does. You love "ba's" {balls} and "bu's" {balloons}. You are nearly obsessed with "tis" {trees} - I can't figure out why, but if you see a tree or any kind of shrubbery for that matter, you must touch it. You love to wave "hi" and goodbye and sometimes you seem shy. You have become a "dad" {daddies} boy but you still have a thing for your "mom" {thank goodness}. You have a mind of your own and you are very determined and strong. You know the doctor's office well but your strength amazes me - You're my little trooper. I are blessed to have you. Every last bit.

Loves and "tesses",

Mom

a little more...

2010-05-09T19:19:00.000-07:00

Since I can remember, I wanted to go to graduate school. Well, after 2 long years - a baby - a baby who couldn't sleep - and a wonderfully supportive husband, I FINALLY did it! It was honestly the hardest thing I have ever done, but now I look back and feel I learned a little more than just Speech Language Pathology... I also learned a little more about myself. I somehow can appreciate the small things, like sleep and a peaceful night without a thing to do. Like spending an entire day singing the ABC's and reading to a curious little boy. Like holding the most perfect little gift in your arms, all night long. Like being a parent with an amazing companion. Like watching a tooth peak through mini gums or the leaves sprout on a nearby tree. These are things I didn't appreciate before. I now know what it feels like to help, or in some minute way, make a difference. I know what it feels like to be sitting in a surgery waiting room, wishing I could change places with my child so he would be free of pain and fear. I know what it's like to be held by big arms and by little ones. I now realize how blessed I am to have a husband who believes in me, even when I don't. I realize how lucky I am to have friends and family who would drop so much to help. I have a better understanding of hard times and a deeper gratitude for the good that comes from them. I now know what it feels like to lose a loved grandfather and to reflect on a life. I know what it's like to watch a baby grow. I know how it feels to be called "mom". I learned more about patience. I learned about my personal limits and abilities. I learned to rely more on God and that prayer really does change things. I learned there is nothing more important or more beautiful than the people I come home to.

This journey has been life changing and I'm grateful to realize there is more than an M.S. after my name.

Thanks to all for your love and support. I couldn't have done it without you.

{more pictures to come}

long overdue.

2010-04-21T21:03:00.001-07:00

Here is a mini update of our lives.

(February - April)

We got to go skiing for the first time in years! So fun.

Bennett and I spent Valentines Day together, since Dad got to go to the Vancouver Olympics. We had a blast dipping strawberries,

reading sappy love stories,

and dressing up for church.

Then we joined some friends for the afternoon.

Then had a nice snooze.

It was a wonderful Valentines day, but surely was not the same without Brandon.

Bennett no longer reaches or backs into things -

He's an excellent crawler, and has been for awhile now...

The bumps and bruises followed the crawling.

{This day in his crib shows the worst of it - Bruises from the week were all over his head! He was out of control.}

Thankfully, he mastered the whole crawling and standing thing - and falls much less.

Bennett takes full advantage of his mobility.

He loves being outside...

...and wearing big ties.

Bennett became Brandon's "true" son the day he went to his first Basketball game - and loved it.

Bennett got glasses.

{Just kidding}

And, for my Birthday, Brandon sent me to Virginia to see one of my bestest friends - Rachel and her beautiful daughter Dakota. The trip was amazing. Just what we needed.

{I will post more pictures of the trip later}

Bennett has/had Obstructive Sleep Apnea (yep: He wakes up 6-12 times a night)... So he had an adenoidectomy. The whole surgery thing was unbelievably scary, but all went well. We should be seeing the true results shortly. Cross your fingers for us and our little trooper.

Then, came the good stuff - Easter.

And now, we are loving the weather and Dad's Baseball games.

So much more has happened but sadly there isn't enough time to share it all! We have been lucky to see so many dear friends and family this year and hope to post the details soon. As for now, we are looking forward to graduation. We can't believe the craziness is coming to an end. We feel so blessed and grateful for our experiences.

sour faces.

2010-01-31T15:13:00.000-08:00

I may be an evil mother, but I couldn't resist. Lemon juice is just way too tempting - and way too fun to watch.

oh the things big boys do...

2010-01-29T19:56:00.000-08:00

They help with the cooking.

They love time with daddy.

{check out the teeth and his strawberry hair}

They love to laugh...

and give tons of kisses.

They sit up to play in the bath.

They give 'cheese ball' faces.

They chew on anything and everything.

They get sick of the camera.

{com'on mom - are you serious? I'm bathin' here!}

They finally part their hair.

They know they're cooler than cool.

They are always on the move...

and know how to pooh...

They play with their ears...

{and think it's funny when mom takes them to the doctor to check for an infection... He's a tease}

and have no fears.

He sure is one great big bundle of joy. We love him - all 18 pounds.

two teeth.

2010-01-16T18:23:00.000-08:00

Well folks, our little man is growing up. He has two teeth! The bottom ones completely cut through in what seems like overnight. Oh and yes, he crawls! He can only crawl backwards, but nonetheless he crawls. It is odd to think that my baby boy is mobile and capable of - well, biting. Life is good.

a good day.

2010-01-13T20:30:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning to my sweetest (Bennett that is) slowly and ever so softly pulling my bottom lip down, letting go and then laughing at the pop sound. Um, I loved it.

Then while playing with the same sweetest this afternoon, he pulled himself up and started scooting - in the wrong direction. Yep, he is now a backwards scooter. Loved that too.

As if this excitement wasn't enough, my very own sweetest picked up his sippy cup and took a few slugs all on his own. Loved that - kinda. When I say kinda I mean that I am kinda not ready for my sweetest to grow up so fast. Surely because I am kinda enjoying how he lathers on the kisses when he sees me (really, he does) and I am kinda loving how he is utterly and completely a mama's boy. I am kinda loving how he looks at me and how he chats with me. I am kinda loving how he leans for me and how he knows how much I love him. I am kinda loving it all. Well, maybe I shouldn't say all --- the nights are rough at the Christensen's house (enough said) - but yes, I will say all because I kinda love how he needs me... 24/7.

Bennett Laughing

2010-01-05T15:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas.

2009-12-28T22:10:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was delightful.

It is always a pleasure to spend time with family and to celebrate the birth of our Savior.

We loved it all...

The laughs...

The Nutcracker...

The presents (lucky dude)...

The yummy Christmas dinners...

"Auntie Tate"...
The piano...

Making Christmas cookies....
{He liked them until he found out he couldn't eat them}

Driving the car with Meems...
Ordering food...

Watching (or dreaming about) Avatar...
Playing with/being the Nativity...

Bennett's stocking...

A new bouncer....

{please notice that while this turkey refuses to enjoy a pacifier, he will take a rubber ducky any day of the week}

Meems' Jewelry...

Opa...
Walks...

Cousins... and baths (LOVED them both)...

Rockband 2 with Papa...

Daddy time during the infamous gift exchange...

The Christmas suit from Great-Grandma Mergens...

This chair...

The cuteness...
Christmas Trees and the smell of "Home for the Holidays"...

{that surely should be the name of a candle}

Mom's new Christmas feather...

Samsey and her smootchies...

Christmas sweaters and eggnog...

more time with Mom...

and much much more!

We loved loved loved it all!

Disclaimer: The awful fuzzy photos are the result of my stupidness. I forgot BOTH of my cameras at home this year (way to go me). Who does that? So, my parents let me use their extra coolpix (purchased 3 months ago) that we regrettably learned was defective. I downloaded the pictures, saw the fuzziness and nearly cried. Bummer.

finally.

2009-12-18T18:32:00.000-08:00

{Bennett loves to help Mom study.

He likes how my notes taste}

Finally - finally done with the semester! Yay! It sure was an adventure. Only one more to go. We may survive this after all. Thanks to my wonderful boys who have been nothing but supportive. I love you both! Thanks to all of the family and friends who went out of their way (some even 900 miles out of their way) to help and support us during this challenging time. We feel so blessed.

This Holiday season I look forward to doing a little unwinding and a little reflecting on a year I will never forget. I am humbled and truly grateful for all we have been blessed with. I wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Happy New Year!

5 months.

2009-11-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

The past 158 days have been wonderful.

That's how long we've had him -

and these two extra chins...

oh, and a new pair of feet (a recent discovery)...

He came with some smarty pants...

...that can now sit,

and drink on their own.

{probably because this smarty pants refuses to take a bottle}

We have also learned that this little one comes with some teeth...

Which are surely on their way -

{hence the love of the teether toy}

All in all, we feel lucky to have our very own "humpty look alike"

and can't wait for the days ahead with our little 16 pounder.

sweet sweet dragon.

2009-11-02T22:22:00.000-08:00

Kids sure do bring out the best in a whole lot of things -

Halloween is one of those things.

Pumpkin by day....

{thanks Meems}

Fire breathing dragon by night...

Mommy? Leonardo?

The gals & the turtles.

Yes, I was a turtle. A true Ninja.

{thanks Aunt Missy}

At Daddy's Halloween Work Party.

Pumpkin Bread Bowls.

{thanks Aunt Jenn}

With the Boys.

Sticky eyeballs.

With Second-Cousin Kelsey.

Trick-or-Treating for the First time.

Some snuggles for Mommy.

Checking out his loot.

With the Great-Uncles.

Us.

Fun, fun, fun times.

{Thanks to everyone for all of the wonderful partays.}

Kobayashi.

2009-10-31T20:20:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true, Takeru Kobayashi a.k.a "Competitive Eater" has a new challenger -Bennett had rice cereal for the first time this week. He LOVED it. Or should I say, he INHALED it (literally). He liked it so much that he couldn't wait for Dad to scoop up another bite - he went for the tray instead. Smart kid.

He's a natural at this eating thing. We're very proud. ;)

4 months.

2009-10-07T22:54:00.001-07:00

{wearing an outfit that Daddy once wore}

All about you... Our Bennster Boy,

- You roll over (front to back and back to front).

-You talk like a maniac. You make all sorts of sounds. It is so fun to watch you converse with us. You sure are trying to say something.

-You squeal like a pterodactyl. Mommy didn't realize you could or would pick up her high pitch version of baby talk. Oopsies.

-You "Bubble up" with your ever so slimy spit. After a day of "lip raspberries" you're foaming at the mouth more than an Bull Mastiff after a long run.

- You've always had a strong neck, but lately, you love to pull your head back (when I am holding you on my shoulder) to stare at me or give me one of those bodacious big mouth grins.

-You smile until your jaw's sore. Really, you're such a happy boy. You smile with your whole body. Love that.

-You laugh! You even laughed at yourself in the mirror for 3 minutes straight.

-You splash during bath time. You soak us every time.

- You sing along (or seem to) to your favorite songs... "the wheels on the bus" and the silly songs mommy made up for you.

-You have gas - bad. Especially at night. :(

- You have happy feet... and oh boy do you use them when you're excited!

- You grab everything. Whatever ends up in your hands ends up in your boca.

-You have officially learned to calm yourself to sleep (during the day). A bundle and some "Baby Mozart" do the trick every time.

-You can actually grow hair! We thought this was going to be a challenge for you, but you have proved us wrong. It is finally starting to grow. Mommy was sad the day she realized your "feathers" were being replaced with the real deal. Looks blond. We'll see.

- You started to shake your head --- kinda like you're saying "no." You do it when you are really happy! I love love love it.

-You love time with Daddy. I love to watch you two together. Lately, "The Claw" tickle game makes you laugh. Mommy tried to do it the other day and you cried - it only works with Daddy.

- You are obsessed with books. It's odd how much you love them. You will sit through multiple books at a time. You concentrate and try to grab the words. Smarty pants.

-You love kisses. They make you laugh.

- You are undeniably the best baby in the world.

-You're simply irreplaceable.

We love you Bennett - oh so very much!

Smootchies,

Mom & Dad

quack.

2009-09-27T14:58:00.000-07:00

Bennett and I love to take walks. We especially love to walk to the middle of our complex to see the ducks. The ducks love Bennett. He loves them. Me, not so much. To be completely honest, they scare me every time - they just get too darn close.

another first.

2009-09-27T14:49:00.000-07:00

Bennett enjoyed his very first football game this Saturday as he watched BYU play Colorado State. He loved it, I think. He was 100% happy watching the game and the people - Like father like son.

We had such a good time and officially feel like a family now that we wore matching shirts to a football game (One of those moments you think about as a little girl ;).

It was so much fun watching Brandon - he's so proud. A guy stopped us and said "Smart. Starting him early." Brandon perked up then insisted I pull Bennett's mini BYU football out of the diaper bag. Tee, hee. :) Love it.

the nursery.

2009-09-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Bennett's favorite toy - his Zebra.

The week we found out we were pregnant, I admittedly began looking for baby bedding. There were endless options for girls, but only ONE that I liked for a boy. "Transport" by Dwell Studio. BUT, This one was a bit too pricey for the likes of us students, so I had to stretch my imagination and settle (so I thought).

The crib was also an issue - I wanted the best of the best for my wee one, but, we like food - so, I went searching on KSL. I hit the jack pot one Saturday morning when I found a crib, changing table and a new mattress for a whopping $50. Truly. Yes, all three items - for $50! Unreal. At the time I didn't love the color or style, but now, I love it.

I couldn't find another crib set that I liked enough to buy and was apprehensive to sew one myself until my friend Meriel inspired me to try...

So, thinking of Bennett's love - the zebra - I went wild and found the fabric. My wonderful mother came and helped me sew (we had a blast)...And...

Ta-da!!

The mobile was quick, easy and inexpensive too - Just some paper and a photo tree from amazon.

All in all, Bennett loves to stare at it - Brandon loves the price tag (the entire room, furniture and all, less than $300) - and I love that they love it. :)

three weeks down.

2009-08-31T21:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true... I have three weeks down - a zillion to go! I can hardly believe I've made it this far. Life sure is interesting. So, let's review -

- To start off my wonderful semester back in school, we had our new car stolen. I know, crazy right?! Who does that happen to?? Us - apparently. It was found in West Valley two days later. A few scratches, but a full car nonetheless. We were oh so grateful it was found.

- My mom flew into town to watch my little angle boy - who wasn't such an angel for the first week or so, but who could blame the kid... he has reflux, bad. Poor little nugget. We tired Mylacon, then gripe water (a temporary life savor), then zantac (the worst) and now prevacid (a tender mercy). The prevacid has been a-mazing. Bennett is doing much better now. It is so nice to see him so happy the majority of the time. Sure does break my heart when he's hurting though. {Thanks Mom for coming and bouncing our boy through his reflux and for the love you shared with us. So grateful.}

- I don't sleep anymore. My little wee one was a champion sleeper for the first 2 months. He only woke up once a night. Then, he did a few nights of 7 hours straight. Loved that. It was short lived. 3 weeks ago he decided (or I should say his reflux decided) that I needed to spend a little more time with him. So - he started waking up (screaming in pain) every hour. He did this for a few days. Then he went to 5 times a night. Down to 3. Now, we are back where we started. He is finally sleeping again! {Sigh.} It was rough, but anything for my little snugglerumpus.

- I learned that school is not nearly as fun as being a mom. I mean, I like it and all, but not as much as I used to. It was once a huge priority, now it doesn't even compare to the priority sleeping in the next room. How can you do homework when you have a chubby cheeked, bright eyed, fuzz head smiling at you? You can't. So...

-I don't sleep. I stay up as long as I need to to study and do the necessary preparations and paperwork for my clients at school. I would stay up all night if it meant more time with my boys.

- Bennett smiles with his whole body. It's my favorite thing.

- We finished the nursery {i'll post pictures soon}.

- I have the best husband in the world. Truly, I do.

- Bennett learned to screech like his mommy. Oops. Ok, i'll admit --- I talk "baby talk." I know, I know, what kind of Speech Pathologist deletes final consonants and distorts her sounds while speaking to her baby sponge. I do, but I prefer to call it motherese (true term & very important for infants). ;)

-Bennett went on an airplane for the first time when we went to Washington for his blessing. It was an amazing trip. He rode a ferry for the first time and went to the beach for the first time. He loved seeing all of his grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He couldn't be loved more. The blessing day was perfect in every way {thanks to the fam for the party and to everyone for attending and celebrating with us}.

-My baby boy slept in his crib for the first time. In his very own room! It was harder than I thought it would be, but we sleep much better without all of his noisy yet sweet sleepy sounds.

-Did I mention I don't sleep? Or how much I love my boys?

-My lovey turned 26 this weekend. Such a big boy. Tee, hee. We had a surprise fiesta in his honor. Happy Birthday love.

-I am still wondering when I am going to get my brain pack. It must have come out with the placenta. I can't believe how absent minded and completely retarded I am. It's odd. I even forgot to close the lid to the washing machine when I was doing laundry the other day. Ya, I know...odd.

-Bennett grabs all sorts of things now! He is learning so much everyday. I love to watch him grow.

-I'm blessed.

Well, there's the brief review. Take'n it an hour at a time. Thanks to all of my friends and family for your support. Couldn't do it without you.

our first.

2009-08-30T21:46:00.001-07:00

{special thanks to nicole carmen photography}

love.

2009-08-13T22:59:00.000-07:00

they're sweet. babies, i mean. i love mine. he is so much fun. really, he is. i have officially decided that i couldn't live without him. all 11 lbs. 11 oz. of his chubby little guts. i love his huge gum showing smiles and his sparkly eyes. i love him even when he is a fuss pot during our entire family photo shoot - stinker. i love gripe water. i love a husband who sets back the clock on a saturday morning so i wouldn't get up (thanks love).

i love opening a drawer and seeing this...

i love to pass by and see this...

i love opening the cupboard to see some of these...

and hopping into the shower just to glance at this...

don't forget these...

and how about this...

what mom doesn't love this...

oh and how i adore this...

i love chocolate. i love friends. i love family. i love love love.

a little dip.

2009-08-06T09:21:00.000-07:00

Our little waterbug took his first plunge. He didn't like it. It was a bit too cold. He did however LOVE being outside. He looked around and enjoyed basking in the shade. He is growing so much these days and sure is a talker and a smiler.

We can't get enough of this one!

big boy.

2009-07-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

play time.

2009-07-09T16:54:00.000-07:00

Bennett isn't allowed to watch TV yet, but he sure likes to pretend. He loves to look at the buttons on our Universal Jumbo Remote Control. I probably would too if I saw a remote that was almost as big as I was!

Bennett also loves tummy time on his new little play mat. He will hold his head up forever if it means he gets to stare at himself in the mirror! It is the cutest thing.

This little guy sure is entertaining. We have so much fun together! Never a dull moment.

3 weeks.

2009-07-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

My little Bennster is 3 weeks today - 3 weeks!!! I can't even believe it. It has been such an amazing experience.

Today, Bennett gave his mommy a huge open mouth smile --- I laughed with joy for about 30 seconds and then the tears came a'roll'n. While we sat and stared at each other through my teary eyes my heart ached with gratitude. I am so grateful for the spirit he brings into our home, for the love he shares with Brandon and I, for the way he trusts me, for the way he makes our marriage stronger and for the way he simply makes us a family. I love every moment. Part of me wishes he would stay small and cuddled in my arms forever and the other part can't wait for the rest of the journey.

I love you little man.

fresh air.

2009-06-28T21:46:00.000-07:00

It felt like the perfect day for a stroll in the park and a picnic. Since we are limited as to where we can go these days, it seemed like a good way to get out and enjoy some fresh air.

daddy.

2009-06-25T15:47:00.001-07:00

Bennett loves his Daddy. When Daddy walks through the door, Bennett surely is thinking --- how soon 'til he scoops me up? It is never long. Brandon is such an amazing dad - I honestly couldn't ask for more.

I love you both like a crazy person.

tummy time.

2009-06-21T12:27:00.001-07:00

People told me it would fly by - but little did I know how fast! Bennett changes everyday. Lately he is more alert and playful. We have so much fun reading, playing and "chatting." I honestly LOVE being a Mommy. Who knew it could be so fun??!??

happy to be home.

2009-06-18T22:45:00.001-07:00

Bennett's Journey Posted Below

his strength.

2009-06-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

Little Bennett came into this world crying, breathing and absolutely perfect. He did however have a hard time adjusting to this foreign world. As a result he had something called a pneumothorax, a small hole in the lung. This happens when the alveoli in the lungs rupture from the transition from fluid to air. Air from the lungs then leaks out through hole into the spaces outside the lung airways. A fair ammount of infants have this, but some deal with it better than others. He was rushed to the NICU and put on a respirator. He went from the respirator, to a ventilator, to feeding tubes and multiple IV's. Seeing the most precious thing in your life struggle was the most difficult thing Brandon and I have ever been through - but, believe it or not, our little boy's strength pulled us through. It was incredible and sincerely humbling to witness his patience, strength and understanding. He is a wonder! We have learned so much from him already. He progressed quickly and healed faster than expected. The hole naturally resealed and his body reasborbed the air that escaped into his thoracic cavity. After 5 long days in the NICU, Brandon and I were blessed to bring our little angel home. We are having a blast and Bennett is doing great! He loves being home.

It has been an amazing experience - difficult - but amazing. Our lives have changed - in a miraculous way - and oh boy, are we grateful for our little man.

You light up our lives Bennett, thank you for choosing us!

We love you.

Always,

Daddy & Mommy

bennett keith christensen

2009-06-15T21:06:00.000-07:00

We couldn't be more blessed to announce our newest love...

Bennett Keith Christensen

June 10th, 2009

6 lbs.13 oz. - 19 inches

Being a mother is truly a gift. I am amazed at the love that I have for this child. Brandon and I surely are the luckiest parents alive.

Little Bennett had a rough start but is doing wonderful.

He is perfect in every possible way! (We will post more details soon)

I love you little man.

oh boy. oh boy.

2009-02-02T16:21:00.000-08:00

We are thrilled to announce that a little baby boy will be joining our family this June!!! Surprise! :) Brandon and I couldn’t be happier. Our little guy is 21 weeks and is as healthy as can be. He kicks like a mad man and makes us smile every day. We are busier than ever with school and work but find time to count our blessings – this guy included!!
Here are some shots of our handsome baby boy. We are so in love and can’t wait to meet him.

Hands Like His Daddy

Thumbs Up

Perfect

(the 'blob' on his head is a part of his hand that was edited out during the ultrasound)

home.

2008-09-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true... We're home! We loved Iowa, as weird as it may seem - but, surely it is great to be back. Brandon stared school last week and I am nestled in up at the U (nevermind the commute). We are crazy busy already, but it works for us. We are getting back into the swing of things and can't wait to catch up with all of our friends. You were missed!

gabby.

2008-07-31T11:19:00.000-07:00

Gabby, Gabbits, Gabbitsferdagin, Gus or Gabe (his real name) is my 2 1/2 year old nephew. He is possibly the greatest person I know --- his personality is rock'n! 4 months ago (before all of his new cousins were born) he was a baby with a throne! I suppose he still is. I have been able to see him everyday for the past 3 months and it has been heavenly. I learn so much from him. The other day I looked over at him and couldn't help but wink... he smiled and a few minutes later looked over at me, yelled "Assss" (yes, this is my name a.k.a. his way of saying Aunt Ash - it is slightly embarrassing when he calls for me in public, but I get over it quickly. He loves me) and then winked both of his eyes at me. He followed with a huge grin. It was the best! I couldn't help but laugh and squish him to pieces. Yesterday I got to babysit him while his parents took Bailey, his baby sister, to the doctor. So, I took him outside and shot him - with my camera. :) He is a character - look and see!

I love you Gabby! Thanks for always putting a smile on my face. :)

photo frenzy.

2008-07-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

I officially love taking pics. Officially.

For graduation, my familia gifted me a Nikon D300 - I'm obsessed. So, imagine 3 adorable little ones within walking distance plus my um, obsession --- yep --- a perfect combination. There is so much to learn with these gadgets, but I am enjoying the challenge. I don't have any professional backdrops yet or the fancy lighting that is practically essential - but we make due. We get a good laugh during the "photo shoots" --- accident prone babies diaperless (yuck), table lamps, fabric by the yard, random props & nurturing/worried mothers (thanks Brandie, Gentree & Brea). In the end I feel lucky to capture (or attempt to) the sweet everythings of a baby. Here are some shots.

BAILEY JADE

WESLEY PRESCOTT

BENTLEY DONEVIN

If anyone knows anyone who wants some free pics taken --- I would love the experience! I've also done some bridals, engagements & maternity. :)

Fam, Flash Floods & Fun

2008-07-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well - it has been almost a year since we started this blog and this is the first time i've been on since. Sad! :) We have had a busy year.

I graduated from BYU in April and Brandon is selling APX Alarms for the summer. He is doing great, but they weren't kidding when they said it was hard work. Geezze.

We are currently enjoying good ole Des Moines, IA of all places. We actually love it here! We started in Davenport, but after we were stuck in a tornado (no joke) we were transferred. We still get a good flash flood every now and then, but anything is better than the scare we were put through!!

We've made several trips to Chicago (love that) and Nauvoo --- a real treat.

Both of my brothers and their lovely wives are enjoying Iowa this summer as well. Along with them comes a slew of babies!! Gabe (2 years), Bailey (3 months), Wesley (1 month) and new baby Bentley (1 week). It is way too much fun. There is rarely a dull moment. It has been such an adventure so far!

Although we are enjoying the luxury of beautiful apartments, family, a new scene and big cities - we do miss our friends so much. We will be returning to the wonderful P-town in the fall where Brandon will finish up at BYU and I will start at the University of Utah! Back to the grind. Tee, hee. ;) We can't wait to see everyone.

Us

2007-10-28T21:45:00.000-07:00

Just in case you forgot what we look like. :)

At Last

2007-10-28T16:41:00.000-07:00

Well, after much contemplation, we have decided to join our fellow “Bloggers”. ;) Our lives are extremely busy, but each day is an adventure to say the least. We’ll keep you updated!