Family There is Nothing Greater

Mighty Bagshaw Boys

2012-02-14T07:50:00.000-08:00

My two little Bagshaw boys are AMAZING!

First lets talk about Lukas and his MIGHTY miracle...

So back in October I noticed that Lukas said Uh? and What? ALOT! It was driving his mother crazy and at first I was like oh, great we are starting this already? Then I really started to worry about his hearing because sometimes he would turn his head to one side to hear you or when he was lying on one side and sleeping I couldn't wake him up. Well I talked to the audiologist that works at the hospital and she said to have the school retest his hearing. They did and all was well. So we continued to have Uh? and What? moments and I would yell at the poor kid to look at me if he can't hear. Well about 2 weeks ago he spent an entire night on our bedroom floor crying that his ear hurt and his throat was dry. The next day we found he had a raging ear infection in the left ear and in the right... The PA was like "there is something there and I would like a second opinion." She got another Dr to come look. He agreed that there was some kind of "growth" that needed to be removed. They called it an ear polyp and said that we needed to see an ENT asap so that he didn't have further hearing loss. AHHHHHHHHH, freak out!

So yesterday we had the appointment with the ENT. He look in the ear and within seconds was like "Yep that's a foreign body." Now if I wasn't in the medical field I would have jumped up and started really freakin' out but instead I sat calmly and FREAKED OUT! You are looking in my kids ear and say foreign body. Great, that just means "not of the body"...so what the heck is it!? Well the Dr said it's a...BEAD or pearl. A what? How? When? Is he ok? So the Dr tried with these really scary tools to remove it but he kept pushing it away and spinning it and said he didn't want to cause any damage so it needs to be surgically removed. WHAT! A freakin' bead?? Now when I thought it was some sort of growth I told Spencer if he has to have surgery and go "under" then I want them to yank his tonsils and adenoids too! So after the ear he said he wanted to check out Lukas tonsils too because in 2009 he was having a hard time breathing at night and snores like a banshee! Well he still does! Anyway he looks in his mouth and says, "Wow Buddy your right tonsil is twice as big as the left." He asked me a couple questions and well...surgery here we come!

The story isn't over yet...

Daddy gets home and we talk about it. I am worried but I really just want to see if I can see the dang thing. So with a flashlight and Spencer holding Lukas I look in and I can see it! It is probably a good inch and a half down and now I am sure I know what it is. It is the little white puff beads from a Lightning McQueen couch. I am really mad now, at the Dr they gave us a $416 dollar quote to remove this freakin' thing. Spencer can see it too and so we talk about what the Dr tried. Spencer gives me this look and says, "What if we put super glue on the end of a tooth pick and it would just bond to it and pull right out." Right, lets jab another freaking sharp thing and push it father in. PERMANENT DAMAGE remember? Well then I come up with a bright idea, super glue on the end of a q-tip! That is soft and not damaging. I tell Spencer we will try it once and then leave it to the professionals! Well here we have it...

It came out SUPER easy and Lukas hardly moved! I was so worried but HOORAY! Lukas was like WOW, I can hear! I was so excited and just couldn't stop telling Spencer thank you. I mean we just performed a $400 surgery in the bathroom! Anyway I do NOT recommend this to anyone, have the professionals take care of it. Do not try this at home! LOL. Lukas is kinda bummed because we are still going to have the T&A surgery next Wednesday the 22nd. Spencer and I think all of this, the bead in the ear, was to get us back to the ENT about Lukas tonsils, they are twice the size they should be and the right is growing twice as big as the left. Anyway we are grateful for all our blessings and again for my medical background. Who knew I was a surgeon!

My Boys..

Now that Bowen is walking like crazy he thinks he is "big" like his brother. He tries to do exactly what his brother is doing...cute huh!

Our Mighty Walker

Bowen finally figured it out. He is so please with himself but now that he is higher all the time he is getting into a lot more...

MaKynzee is NO help. She watches him make the mess and laughs with him and then something all of the sudden "dings" and she comes to get me, a little too late! Mommy is moving everything higher and baby proofing for the next stage in toddlerhood.

This is Bowen, his favorite thing is to walk around with as many binkies as he can find. He is just so dang cute! Really you need 3! Well if they help you walk...LOL!

SO the Bagshaw life is crazy as ever. We are enjoying every minute and trying to catch the blessings in between the chaos! Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. We love you all!

Family Home Evening Fun

2012-02-01T16:25:00.001-08:00

We were so excited to have Grandma and Grandpa Bagshaw over for dinner and FHE a few weeks ago. We had planned on dinner and bowling but the kids lost that privilege through a series of fights, that NEVER happens at your house, right? Anyway we had dinner and then FHE. For our activity we decided to play Would You Rather? a game we got as a family at Christmas. It was SO much fun. There are questions about what you would rather do IE Be very smart and alone or dumb and have friends. Anyway I got a challenge with a list of things to do for the rest of the night and I had to pick one. So I picked having someone draw a mustache and glasses on me with make up. My poor mother in law just about died when she saw my make-up. She kept saying..."This is it! I am so disappointed." It was so funny. All my make up is pretty flesh colored so it looks "barely there" if I ever wear it. So there was nothing to really draw a good face so the poor woman broke out her own lip stick...

Grandma did good huh? We all had so much fun and it truly was funtastic. The kids loved every minute and although we did not get to bowl I think it was worth it.

Catchin' Up with the Bagshaws in 2012

2012-01-21T14:13:00.000-08:00

Bowen
Bowen is our happy little camper. He has this amazing long curly blonde hair that makes his mom so happy. He is still such a ham and smiles at everything. His favorite new toy is emptying the shredder and playing with all the little piece...oh goody. He loves his binky and is still our little sunshine. He crawls around like lightning so has found no need to start walking. He has however taken his first steps. We love our little man.

MaKynzee
MaKynzee is our little "flairy". She is from another world entirely and likes to spend her days there up in the clouds. She finds it hard to come back to earth and listen to her parents. Her two favorite things are Hippo and Kira. She love her new preschool and can spell her name. Her parents are SO excited since most people told them that she would hate us because she won't be able to spell her name. Well she isn't in Kindergarten yet so HA! Anyway she had a cute little streak where she tried to rename Hippo, Sparkles because she was sick of everyone call her a "him". It didn't last very long. Here is how I found her the other day with her two favorite people...Sh is very loving and likes to cuddle.

Lukas
Lukas is a class clown. He is so funny and finds ways to make us laugh daily. He has this cute little ritual he dose when I drop him off at school. He rolls down the window, gets out and runs to school. So mom is sitting there with the door wide open and snow coming in, my door and window wide open. I get some pretty good looks but when Lukas is just about to school he turns around and laughs his infectious giggle and I can't help but grin. I love it! We are moving on to chapter books now so we will see how that goes. This is him telling me that he is ready for church...he was in Bowen's dress shirt. The funniest part was watching him try to button it up.

Brandee
Well Brandee is well Brandee. I have decided to be Brandee "uncut" this year and try to be honest with myself and all of you. I am going to revamp my blog and use it as my sounding board/ my therapy. I am going to be honest with myself and you. If you want to know me, the real me you can check it out. I am staying insanely busy with work, home, kids, husband, Primary, church and everything else. Primary is my therapy. I love it. I was bearing my testimony Sunday and told everyone that I had no idea I would have 75 kids at 27! Shhh Spencer might kill me, LOL. SO this new year our theme is Choose the Right. I love it. I came up with this "super" cute bulletin idea. I really like it and thought about putting it on sugar doodle but don't have the guts. I LOVE IT! On Sunday the kids are going to draw a picture of themselves and write their names and we will put it all over the board by Super Right....

When I was working I turned around and found Bowen doing this...

I turned the mic on and listened to him giggle, ooo, momma and all other cute noises. It was fun. He wants to be a big kid. I LOVE the tippy toes.

Spencer
Spencer gave us all the best Christmas/ New Years present EVER. He got a full time job offer with Premier Technology in Blackfoot as their IT department with one other guy. He LOVES his job and after he negotiated vacation time so he could still go backpacking every summer, he signed a contract. I am so very proud of him. He still has 3 classes left and will graduate in May. He is busy like never before but he is balancing quite well. We hope this is the end of school and so does he because I have promised him a cruise. We will see...

MaKynzee's First Dance Recital

2012-01-21T13:54:00.000-08:00

MaKynzee took a Cheer and Hip Hop dance class. She had a really good time but really wants to do ballet. After her dance recital she said, "Mom can I do real dancing now?"

Before the recital,

she was in the class with Kira of course!

I thought MaKynzee was the best but I AM her mother!

She did SO awesome with the cheer part...we always knew she was LOUD! Just like her mom!

Daddy was on his frst buisness trip so Grandma and Grandpa filled the void. As soon as MaKynzee learned about the recital she wanted to invite Grandma and Grandpa. It was so nice to have them there. THANKS!

I guess that means we are on to "REAL" dancing now.

San Diego Here Comes MOMMA

2012-01-18T16:43:00.000-08:00

So my parents, my sister and her husband and me hopped in a car Christmas night and began our travels to my cousin's wedding in SUNNY San Diego. We just went to Lehi, Ut Christmas night and then we took another 12 hour drive to San Diego. The drive wasn't too bad there, we had lots of Christmas movies to watch. We arrived, checked in, pampered ourselves and then went to a dinner for family of the wedding party. The Groom, Spencer (my cousin) being from all around the US (due to military family, my uncle is a Colonel in the Air Force, yah I'm braggin') had a wonderful 10 attendees, we doubled the group! Well the dinner was on the freakin' Pacific Ocean! The restaurant is called Ruby's and it is a quarter mile walk on a bridge to get out to it. It was AWESOME...

The "favorites" table.

(R to L) Bryonna (cousin/ sister of the groom), Me, Krystal (cousin/sister), Arik and Christina.

After dinner Bryonna and I walked along the beach bare foot. It was AMAZING and BEAUTIFUL and some serious therapy!

Ok, just the majesty of this building is unreal! I felt so overwhelmed by the spirit and a knowledge that families are truly for all eternity. It takes work but this reminded me that it is all worth it!

The sweet and ever so in LOVE Mr and Mrs Bowen.

Me with the lovely couple. I was SO glad that I could go! Congrats guys, I LOVE YOU!

My favorite man at these Bowen gatherings! My Uncle Alan, he is just flat out AMAZING and every time I see him I love him so much more! He has never aged a DAY! I want to be just like him, I love his smile and laugh.

Just an amazing place to be with your favorite uncle!

One thing that I have noticed missing in my life is my own devotion and drive to make it to eternity. So this was some serious WAKE UP and smell the roses. I realized that no matter what happens in this life I want to be standing on the other side with my Savior smiling arms out wide saying, "Thou good and faithful servant." With my Father and Mother in Heaven there looking on to welcome me HOME. The only way to make it there is to make some serious changes and be more focused on my Savior and I am ready!

Christmas Joys 2011

2012-01-18T16:03:00.001-08:00

This Christmas we had a great time! I was a little over ambitious with our parent gifts and lost half of the other presents but hey Santa was really busy this year.

So I don't know what possessed me but I came up with this idea all on my own. I decided to quilt our parents temple (everyone keeps asking but NO, I did not use a pattern I made my own) and then add the grandkids hand prints as "flowers" on the bottom because temples are always surrounded by flowers...

Spencer's parents were sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple.

My parents were sealed in the Oakland Temple. I am sad that you can not see the detail. As you might know the temple has Jesus and his disciples on the front, well I hand stitched each one. You can't see it but it is there. It was Christmas morning and no one waned to be in the picture :(

We celebrated Christmas Eve with caroling to nursing homes with a family in my sister's ward, it was the first time I felt the Christmas spirit and just basked in it. It was good to do some service with the kids to celebrate. Then ...Tradition! We acted out the Nativity. Did Baby Jesus have bottles??

Hanging our stockings by the "chimney"

Christmas morning was full of LOTS of JOY! All the adults woke up before the kids. Dang, that won't happen again. We were awake for a good hour or two and then finally woke up the kids, we did have to get to church at 11:00. The best Christmas gift was being with family. Christmas morning Santa brought the kids...

Bowen...

A rocking horse and clothes. He loved the horse can you tell.

MaKynzee...

A Princess vanity and more mini princess dolls to replace all the ones that have been beheaded or lost their hair, LOL.

Lukas...

His very own computer complete with desk, he is becoming more and more his dad every day! And a remote helicopter.

Then when the excitement was just at its peak we went to church to celebrate in the TRUE meaning of Christmas. The grandkids in their Christmas dress clothes.

Bowen's 1 year Pictures

2011-11-20T15:24:00.000-08:00

We did Bowen's one year pictures last week and they turned out awesome. Spencer took the pictures. I set him up and changed the clothes, positions and perfection. I think we are getting pretty good at this tag team photography stuff.

We used some wrapping paper I picked out as the back drop, it turned out better than expected, I think Spencer was a little hesitant but I think they are amazing!

My sweet angel boy

GO Broncos, I love this one cause he is so happy. The expression is priceless.

Then we went for nothin' but diaper and this cute hat he got for his birthday. His "animal" has been dubbed the bear and so it was very fitting.

We are totally in love with this kid!

How could you not LOVE that smile?

Ok the story behind this one is that Bowen was done and so he decided he was going to walk toward us, so we got his first step on picture! He stepped out from the hippo and then took one more step without holding onto anything! WAHOO! We better watch out.

Gone but NOT without a good excuse!

2011-11-12T08:06:00.000-08:00

Ok so I finally am here up dating our blog. So many things have been happening and keeping us on our toes and off the "enjoyment" activities list. Halloween was a roller coaster but so much fun. A family update...

Lukas has totally soared in school. He is doing amazing with his reading. The teacher keeps telling us that he just keeps surprising her. This boy is all about games though. All he ever wants to do is play games... his current favorite is Stratego. We are still trying to teach him the right way.

MaKynzee is still such a "sweetie". Her teacher keeps telling us she has two "problems" with MaKynzee during school.
1. She won't sit down, she is always standing at the desk.
2. She won't stop talking.
Well her parents would agree. Our biggest problem with MaKynzee is she just won't sit down to do anything, especially eat. She's always standing and creating quite the mess. We need to get a dog to hoover under the kitchen table.
About her talking...if she isn't talking she is singing, and if she isn't singing she is yelling and if she isn't yelling she is "whispering" and if it isn't any of the above she is WHINING! Heaven help us! Hippo is still her best friend and companion. She is ALL girl and we love her!!

Bowen's first birthday party was a huge success! The boy won't stop growing. At his ONE yr apt the boy weighed in at 21 lbs 30z (5% for wt) and a whooping 31.5 in long (90% for ht). Gee I wonder is that a Bagshaw or a Bowen?? Maybe he looks like a Bowen and is perfectly named but he is a Bagshaw build. We regifted Lukas' hippo walker/ride-on that he got for his 1st birthday and Bowen LOVES it. He is always trying to walk with it. He throws a little tantrum everytime the hippo pulls away and he has to sit down. Such a little temper. He is walking along everything and crawling UP everything too. Nothing sacred anymore.

Spencer only has 5 more weeks of full time school, with one class in the spring. I can't even tell you how blue in the face I am from holding my breath that this is it. This is finally happening right?? We are hoping the "real" world will be nicer to us this time around.

Brandee is going crazy and would love to be 6ft under....I am not laughing. It has been so crazy but the Lord keeps making it work so BRING IT ON! Work has got increasingly hard and emotional... I just get so attached and maybe I see the end... where I don't HAVE to work anymore. I just HATE being away from the home and my other duties. Kudos to those who can work and like to... I just really don't.

Happy Halloween

2011-11-12T07:23:00.001-08:00

The costumes...

YES I made them again this year. It is my FAVORITE thing. MaKynzee's was amazingly hard but it paid off. It was so much better than I expected.

Lukas- BATMAN

His smile is infectious!

MaKynzee- IRISH Princess

Bowen- SPIDER

ZOO BOO

I have been trying for 4 years to get to the "Zoo Boo" here at the Pocatello Zoo. The Problem was I was always working or the costumes weren't done. Anyway this year I PLANNED for it and we had a BLAST! (Of course it wasn't perfect...Bowen's costume wasn't done so he wore a super small lion costume :0) The kids got to trick or treat around the Zoo and we get to see the animals... perfect!

Watching the HUGE elk.

The cuter than cute Bagshaw 3!

Then the Classroom parades...

We missed Lukas AGAIN...last year I had a WAY better excuse, I was having a BABY! Anyway we got to see the kids parade in his room instead. He is such a little character, he gave Hi-fives to everyone that came in. Super coooool Batman!

MaKynzee got to parade around the cul de sac at Preschool. They were all so cold but so cute!!

Trunk or Treat at the ward Party...

thrown by yours truly and yours alone. But that is another story entirely.

Trick or Treating with the Jorgensens...

they have a better neighborhood without the busy streets. It was so much fun. Lukas asked if we could have Halloween everyday. Umm NO! I can't make that many costumes...LOL.

So you might ask yourself why have I been slacking in the blog world for Sept-Oct. Well I was making 3 costumes, preparing for one birthday party, one bi-ward Halloween Trunk or Treat complete with carnival independently (thanks to the Jorgensens who did help with their hot air that helped blow up 200 balloons), two school parties AND getting a new Primary Presidency! Well gee that was fun, maybe we could do it next year, eh?

HECK NO!

Happy 1st Birthday Bowen

2011-11-12T07:03:00.000-08:00

We started Bowen's celebrations with his Birthday Pancakes. He was SO excited because this was the first time I put syrup on them.

Next Mommy decorated for the Birthday party, it was SO much fun to do a Halloween theme. Bowen's costume was a spider so I did a Spider cake. It turned out better than I hoped.

The rip roarin, awesome blossom, totally outrageous cake...

Presents..he got some awesome things! One in particular was probably more than he bargained for...but we will leave it a that! LOL. This is one of my FAVORITE pics from the party, they both just look so happy. Grandma was helping Bowen open his presents...

THE CAKE

Before... bare and ready for frosting!

After...

To be perfectly honest the boy was more interested in the "1" candle and even turned over the cake to reach it. Oh well as you can see it wasn't a complete waste :0)

Thanks to all that participated and gave gifts...those who sent $$ to the boy we bought him a much needed winter coat so THANKS!!

Oh, happy days! Bagshaw update

2011-09-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

Spencer and Brandee- Well we just celebrated our 8th anniversary. I can not believe it has been that long. So much has happened and nothing really that we planned...except the kids. We knew we wanted kids. Anyway for our anniversary we went to dinner and a movie. It was great. I tried really hard to make it a real date. I even did my hair and make-up. We were at dinner and Spencer all of the sudden gets a funny look on his face...leans in closer to get a better look at me and said, "Are you wearing eyeshadow?" It was hillarious, the look on his face. Yep I went all out and what do get...what is that on your face?! It was funny.

Spencer- FINAL YEAR of school! Spencer just started his final year of school, all of you pray for him! He is really focused and ready to be done (so am I). I think the light at the end of the tunnel is finally bright enough to light a fire under his bum. Real world here we come....

Brandee- I was super excited, I planted my first ever garden. I have planted tomatoes and daisies every year we have been married but have only managed to kill them off. Well this time our friends had some extra space in their garden so I planted a salsa garden with the kids. The kids loved helping and really liked pulling weeds. Really hope the work ethic continues. Don't worry I still got to kill something....I killed everything off but the tomatoes and onions. Here is our first true harvest! Only tomatoes so far but I am so excited, they aren't dead! Spencer keeps telling me how proud he is and how good the tomatoes are so he must want me to do this again :)

Lukas-

Our BIG 1st grader is ready to hit the books. He has been waiting all summer to be the "cool/ bigger" kid and help the kindergartners like they did with him last year. (At our elementary school it is K/1 the first half of the day. Then K goes home about lunch time and the 1st graders do more math and reading at the higher level the rest of the day.) After the first day of school he said his favorite things were to get a stack of books and just read for 30 min after the kindergartners left and the lunch recess cause it is "really LONG!" We are so glad that he is SO in love with books and can't wait for him to pick up the bigger words. He tries and is getting better with big words. He is still our little gammer though and picks Wii over anything.

First Day of School: Sept 1, 2011

Daddy took some great pictures! Mommy was at work:(

Notice the silly bands! He loves them and makes sure he has them EVERY day since he got them last Christmas. I thought he would forget but "NO WAY!"

MaKynzee-

Our sweet princess started preschool today. We moved her to a different school and so she was a little nervous and scared.

This is what she said this morning, "Mom, I am going to a new school right? A smarter school?"

"Yes, Kynzee"

"Well ok but it will only be better if my Kira is there. Is my Kira going to be there?"

"Yes, Kynzee"

"Ok, I am ready. But mom my hair! Mom, you do my hair pretty, but today can you do it SUPER pretty, like REALLY pretty.

sigh, "Yes, Kynzee."

I hope her hair was pretty enough and we got there the same time as "her" Kira so she walked away with no cares for mommy.

The pretty princesses ready for school! They were both like.."look I got my hair curled"

"yeah, me too." Ahh to be young and free!!

Bowen-

Mr Bowen has decided to get on the move. He LOVES to suck on wires, plug ins, anything that we have moved out of his path he continues to go for till he gets it. Persistent little bugger. He has been stuck under the kitchen chair, couch and end table, in between the couches and stuck in baskets after he crawls to them and goes in head first. Ahh to explore. He doesn't care until he gets what he wants and THEN he realizes what a small spot he is in. Lukas and I call him the Bulldozer! If it is in his way he will move it. These are pictures from his first day crawling, August 28 (on exactly his 10 month of life)...Baby Zilla...

He is so proud of himself and so are we!

Now our biggest challenge is food. He only wants the real stuff like table food and paper. Yep, newspapers are his favorite. LOL. No more baby food! Also my milk has started to dry up so he doesn't get enough there but he won't drink from a bottle. OOOOOOOOoooooo, HAVE MERCY! Anyway we love his cute little teeth that he uses for everything he eats since he only wants "true" solid food. Dang cute kid....

As you can see we are all healthy and working on happiness! Be good and choose the right!

Copple Family Reunion

2011-08-29T16:25:00.001-07:00

So who are the Copples you ask? Well that is my dad's mother (my grandma's) maiden name. She has two sisters and we had a whole bunch of people there. It is so amazing to me that you can get a whole bunch of Bowen's together and it is like we didn't miss a beat. I LOVE it! The place we stayed at was in the middle of nowhere Utah. Which quite honestly was PERFECT. It was Hidden Springs Ranch...it had all sorts of things for us to do. We went rock climbing, swimming, Spencer did paint ball and a whole bunch of games!!!

Here is Spencer getting in position for paintball. After the first round he was the one to get. Unfortunately it was two fold 1. Because he has good aim and 2. He didn't stop shooting once he got you. Oh well, dig your own grave hunny. He had a blast and relieved alot of tension, much needed after you waste a day with the car broke down :0)

Hiding in the bushes. Scoping out the enemies...

Coming out all enemies are DOWN!

Just wanted to prove the really hot sharp shooter was my hubby. There he is.

Then ofcourse Lukas had to get some action. We let him shoot at cups on trees. He found "true love". Something just as explosive as he is.

There was a pond with row boat up front. Grandpa was so nice to take the kids for rides.

Well then ofcourse you can't get that many people together without getting proof it happened right? And we can't have almost ALL the Bowen's present without some sort of TRAUMA...right? So we had our turn already so we were safe right? WRONG, dead wrong!

Here is a little hint...

For the rest of the story...This is a piece from a beautiful retaining wall. It was really nice and in this half circle thing so a picture perfect place right? It even had a bench for the "wise" ones. Anyway they had laid out names on each of the cinder blocks of who goes where. Well unknown to us our men were positioned right on top of this yellow jacket nest with Spencer dead center. After the men got in position they called over the wives. Well not knowing I placed my leg DEAD center in the middle of the entrance to the nest. Yep, that's right. All I can remember was beginning to scream...really scream like loud girly, no loud WOMAN scream. I looked down and one of the yellow jackets had actually got stuck in my leg so he sat there pumping in the venom or whatever it is they have. Well I continued to scream and they moved me to the lawn. Someone as I recall said, "Scream louder that will help." Ahhh got to love family. Well thanks to my rescuers...my dad and Uncle Mark immediately had ice. I had three distinct stings but the one where the bee was stuck was KILLING me. I kept swallowing, checking all my allergic reaction checks. I thought I had been stung before but never ever did it hurt this bad. Anyway finally one of my other uncles came down with baking soda and water and we put that on. At first it didn't help but then finally came some relief. Now don't forget we were getting ready for a family reunion picture so I had close to 70+ witnesses and I am sure that I was ever so graceful about the whole thing. Wait do you remember the WOMAN scream. Anyway I wanted to crawl in a hole and die after the pain subsided but true to Bowen form... the show must go on... and so we did take that beautiful family picture a little ways off and Arik got to stand in a red ant hill this time. He didn't complain...he didn't want everyone to remember him too.

The remains after being sprayed to death by my uncle.

...
Now for those pretty family pictures...we didn't get the big one but hey I don't think I looked that good anyway.
My Grandma and Grandpa Bowen with all their "GREATS"

After the big picture we did just a DR Bowen picture (ie just my immediate family). My sister and I had shirts made and we put all the families together like the t-shirt. Poor little brother of mine looks a little lonely but he is just single don't feel sorry for him, he'll get there...we love you!!!

My parents grandkids making the infamous "B" for Bowen!!

We had so much fun and really enjoyed the break..well mostly ;0). I miss my family already but I know we will be together soon enough. I hate being so far away. SURE LOVE YA!

Where the wedding are we??

2011-08-29T15:40:00.000-07:00

So what happened to July and August? Well I know where July went, it went to getting my sisters wedding flowers and decor done. It was so much fun but maybe a little more stress than I thought. She finally met her prince charming and I wanted to make everything perfect. This was her perfect fairy tale wedding.

Now for those of you who just don't know my sister, I have not seen her smile in a very long time. Life has not been easy but Prince Charming finally found the Princess of his dreams...

Words do not express how much I LOVE this picture. My sister is back, her smile is beaming and everyone around her can feel that love.

The siblings...Me, Melanie, Garrett, Christina

The whole Bowen Clan...ok not really we are missing Arik, he was on a fire. I think I might photo shop him in...see the big hole between my sister and I...yep that is Arik's spirit making sure he had some room.

The first dance...

I cried alot. More happiness than I could handle in one day!

...

Later at our family reunion Spencer took pictures for Mr and Mrs Service.

I had researched poses for a while to make sure we didn't miss anything. This was my favorite to display the wedding rings. Ahh AMOR!

My absolute FAVORITE photo from the shoot. That Bride is GORGEOUS! That couple PERFECT. And they have begun their happily ever after...

Now as we traveled back from Arizona to Utah for the family reunion AND true to Bowen tradition we could not all get there in one piece without drama. In fact I believe the Lord took this time to teach me a pretty important lesson or maybe lessonS...I said the prayer that morning that we would all get there safe and our cars would function properly...BUT...we broke down in the middle of NOWHERE Arizona...about 50 miles from page on I80A.

MaKynzee enjoying "dinner": leftover wedding food ie fruit, cheese, crackers. The view was amazing but no one could find the really pretty rock formation by mile marker 526!

So we broke down about 5 pm. Called progressive and about an hour later on the phone they said they had a tow truck on the way. Too bad they sent it to mile marker 526 on I80 not I80A!! Anyway so we waited around some more and tried to find where we were....but no man knoweth! We finally got the tow truck guy to call progressive and tell them HE knew where we were because he knew I80A. Anyway about 10:30pm we got to ride on the bed of a tow truck. Spencer got to ride in the cab but the kids and I and my sisters maid of honor got the "honor" of riding in the van. This was what we saw for 55 miles...

For the rest of the story you will have to read my blog. I am going to do the FULL, unedited version there maybe in a week or so.

Anyway I think the lessonS the Lord wanted to teach was...

1. Patience, enjoy his beautiful creations

2. This is HIS plan, NOT mine

3. All the money I have is HIS

4. He can take our/ His money whenever he wants, however he wants.

Yes we arrived at the family reunion a day late, lots of dollars short and at 2AM!

We are not dead...just feel like it!

2011-06-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

Ok so lets say I want to fill you in with short two to five word descriptions for what you missed with me being so CRAZY...

May-

1st week

Aiden Carl Jorgensen (nephew) born

Brandee called 2nd Counselor in Primary

Spencer called Primary Worker

2nd week

Brandee's work moved to new hospital

Brandee works full time

Spencer Finals with flu bug

Baby Shower 4 Christina

MaKynzee develops horrid cough

3rd week

Spencer Bronchitis

Lukas Bronchitis + Ear infection

Lukas misses whole week of school

Bowen Ear infection

Ward Boundries change

4th week

Spencer still sick

Family here for Aiden's Blessing

Brandee Called as Primary Pesident (LOL)- I am still laughing or crying regardless there are tears!

Now here comes June- I don't know if my head is on straight, if my pants are up and zipped or if I forgot the baby in the car....Who knows? But thank heavens the first weekend is a much needed break with TIME OUT for WOMEN! It was EXACTLY what I needed to hear and just flat out inspiring...maybe I can do this calling. Well the next weekend Spencer decides that as a family we should go on an adventure to "de-stress." So yesterday we went to Craters of the Moon. Let me tell you a FUNtastic story...

Once upon there was a little family of 5 that just needed to run away, but the mommy had to work so they left late at 8pm. Well it was an adventure after all with a two hour drive what more could they love. They arrive at a campsite oh dear it's so late (1015pm). They hustle and bustle to the back of the campground to find a site, when what shall appear but an empty campsite for these little dears! So they hop out real fast and set up the tent so no one can take their beloved spot. Now honest people should know, they needed to pay, so off they left their tent in good faith. Well if the people weren't so tired, they would have noticed before, the cute little pay board that was filled to the top. Oh dear the campground they picked was paid for already! So what do they do.....

They grab the tent and haul off on the roof. Now try as mom might she had a hard time hanging on from the tears of her giggles and laughter in back. Now you would hope we weren't spotted but spotted we were and the poor little boy just lost his jaw to the floor and I bet no one believed his story in his camp either! So off we went and found one right in front! The children slept nestled in sleeping bags just oh so sweet...YEAH RIGHT! The END

Next morning we ventured around what is called the "7 Mile Loop" The kids had so much fun looking at all the different rocks but everyone's favorite were the caves.

The caves...yes Bowen was there too! I think he liked it cause it was perfect temperature!

Bowen keeps us smilin' with his new tricks...

He really is only happy if he gets BOTH feet in his mouth!! We love you all! Hope you enjoyed our "catch up" and adventures.

Our Favorite Things

2011-04-14T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Bagshaw house has been really busy...We are just having so much "fun" being busy we forget the small and simple things that are our favorites.

Lukas- He loves soccer and started this week. We are so excited for another season. He loves his brother so very much. He always goes directly to Bowen and gives hugs and kisses when he gets home. He loves to do anything with him....The other day I found Lukas had set up himself a reading spot in our room and pulled Bowen right next to him. Ahh....made me tear up and all.

We go to the library every two weeks and bring home two big bags full of books home. The Library is our favorite family place. We are too busy to go every week but I think we might have to because Lukas reads through his books so fast now. Lukas reading to the family, doing his "homework"

MaKynzee is such a princess always in her favorite: pink or skirts. She wants to be "sparkly". We didn't sign her up for soccer because she is going to do dance. We just haven't found an opening yet. She tells everyone she is going to do ballet. She is such a sweet heart. Yesterday she asked if she could pick out her "school" outfit. I usually make her change or just pick the outfit because her fashion is so... HIGH fashion...this is what she choose...

Head to toe: pink sparkle head band, green sparkle shirt, red sweater, purple sparkle and dot skirt, sparkle black leggings and we can't forget the yellow flower "slippers" (high heel dress up shoes). I bit my tongue and allowed her to wear everything but the shoes. She has some serious personality! Also new I made her buy a Ken doll with her b-day money because I was sick of Barbie marrying the princesses. GIRLS do NOT marry GIRLS. Ok, much better now that Ken is around.

Bowen is just a happy dude. His favorite thing I think is his elephant and to drool! He has begun to move his feet around a lot like he just found out he could do that and occasionally tries to reach out and grab them. My favorite are his silly faces right now...

Mommy's favorite thing...getting her hair done.

Before

After

My sister came with me and just giggled at the finished look. Yep I have the "Utah" bob we always laughed about. It is something new and fresh and I like it!

Adventures in Motherhood

2011-04-06T16:14:00.000-07:00

The Runaway Trailer

I was driving over to drop the kids off at my sisters so I could go to a work meeting. Well on my way I was on a 4 lane road. Two lanes for one way and two lanes for the other. Well I almost get to the intersection where I turn and there is a red truck stopped a few yards back from a green light (odd, yes) and there is a white..wait let me double check...yes in fact there is a white RUNAWAY trailer headed at me. I think for sec, just one little sec wait this only happens in movies as I quickly swerve to the left to avoid getting hit dead on. (Apparently the red truck stopped to watch its loose trailer cause havoc.) Ok, near miss and then as I am letting out a sigh of relief everything goes into slow motion. I see out of the corner of my eye the trailer hit something and come barreling back at the van. Nope I am not kidding. I had to floor the car, swerve into the on coming traffics lane and then I swear I don't know what happened. I think I know...angels picked up the back of the van and gave it an extra shove just as the trailer should have impacted the back side and crushed my little girl. At this point I hear screaming and realize we are all ok and didn't get hit. So I say, "Kyn..." But right when I started to talk, the screaming stopped. It was ME screaming. I looked back and MaKynzee's eyes are huge! She is shaking her head back and forth and saying "Crazy car, crazy car. Mommy did you see it? Crazy car!" Well I look over and after our near miss the trailer skipped across the remaining two lanes of traffic, jumped the curve and here is the ultimate kicker...it landed in the "Denny's Towing" parking lot. I didn't get to laugh until I past it about an hour later but still...Denny's towing!!! LOL. I realized 2 things...1. I scream really loud when I think I am about to loose a daughter and 2. I am glad I pay my tithing and say my prayers!

Lady Bug Rescue

Today we were over at my sisters and the kids were playing in the backyard. Lukas found a ladybug and wanted to bring it home. Sure, I know I brought home a lot of lady bugs and rollie pollies in my day. Well we get home and Lukas decides the ladybug needs water. He has the bug in a plastic cup.

I said, "Lukas lady bugs can't swim, they drowned in water, so don't put in too much."

Lukas, "Ok." Lukas went into the bathroom and fills the cup half full! Yep he listens great! He then comes running with a sloshing cup of water. "Mom! The lady bug isn't moving." (no duh son, I told you that lady bugs can't swim.) I look in the cup and the lady bug is belly up. Lukas starts to tear up so I run to the bathroom with the stupid "water casket" cup and try to dump out some of the water. Well MaKynzee comes in and says, "Good job Lukas. You killed it." I turn to give a forceful tongue lashing when I forget what I am doing and pour out the entire cup including the dang stupid bug!

DRAMA!

Lukas starts screaming, MaKynzee is crying. Lukas opens the cabinet under the sink and says pointing to the "u" joint, "It's right there mom." I look in the desperate eyes of my children and think to myself. If I open it and it isn't there at least I tried right? My children are crying and I just killed their lady bug! Only a second or two has passed, so I start frantically emptying the cabinet. I start tugging on the connector of the "u" joint. Come on, a little help here, I pray. Finally I give up. Turn to the kids and say, "I'm sorry we will get another lady bug soon, ok." I grab the stopper that I pulled from the sink and guess who is crawling on it? Drum roll please....Yep (stupid little, I mean) Mrs Lady Bug herself.

I just about smashed the thing between my finger and thumb for all this ridiculous drama, my bathroom in pieces and AHHHHHH! Needless to say the guilt refrained me from taking action and we created a little home for her.

I am afraid to ask, What other great lengths will I go through for little bugs? Must be the love of a mother!

I love my kiddos!

Updates

Lukas is so dang cute! he is reading like crazy and we are so proud of him. My favorite thing with him is taking him to school. It goes like this...we get to school and he hops out.

I say, "Love you Buddy" and

He says, "Love you more mom!" Then blows me a kiss.

I say, "Love you mostest." And he runs to the school.

Now as he runs to the school he gets to this pole...

He swings around it twice and then runs inside. I don't know why but it is the cutest thing, it gives me goose bumps and just makes me so happy! It is by far my most favorite part of the morning.

MaKynzee is pretty drama right now. She always wants to be in a skirt and with jewelery. Lately she has been sleeping with a crown on and I keep forgetting to take a picture. But she is all princess.

Bowen is still growing leaps and bounds. I have to use some serious hip to haul that kid around. We have unofficially started to introduce foods ie one french fry and a hunk of pizza crust. Both were just sucked on to death. Ummm sodium! He is the druel master so we expect teeth soon. The most fun and exciting thing is that he still has green eyes! I know! Both the other kids had brown eyes in two months but look at this picture, 5 months and counting the kid still has green eyes! The green towel really helps too!

So all is well and we love our kiddos they suprise us everyday with some new experiences and love!

Did I really let her do that?

2011-03-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

MaKynzee has been asking for WEEKS if she could cut her hair. I kept saying no...I LOVE her hair. Well morning after morning of fighting it was weighing down on me and then a not so good but "little" incident happened. My sister was watching my kids- I am more than sure MaKynzee was in on it- my niece cut her hair. She cut off her little piggy tails. Now right after Kira did it MaKynzee ran and told my sister. So I am sure MaKynzee was there cheering her on and then when Kira actually did it she ran and tattled. Such drama queen and so naughty to boot! Anyway the results ended with some pretty cute hair cuts for my nieces.... So after listening to daily whining for her hair to get cut and a pretty bad morning of screaming hair drama...we went to the salon. Yep I cried and tears fell but I really didn't want to end up with her cutting her own hair. (Sorry sis, I know she was in on it.) I was too afraid to cut that much off myself...so you can say we copied Brookelyn and Kira (my nieces) or that mommy was scared into it or just flat out sick of her whining...it is done and here it is... When the lady was almost done MaKynzee pulled me over with her finger and whispered "I need bangs mom." Up till that point she didn't look very happy but once the bangs were cut she couldn't stop grinning! She loves it. She flips her hair over her shoulder and says "Like my hair?" Oh dear...the little princess we have. The really weird thing for me was that I never thought MaKynzee looked like me till now... Check out our "Spring"Break post below.

Happy "Winter" Break 2011

2011-03-27T18:03:00.000-07:00

Ok so Spencer had this brilliant idea that we would go to Yellowstone, only the north entrance is open but hey we could still catch some animals right? So off we headed...what we (well I am beginning to think Spencer knew all along and just didn't tell me because I would have vetoed the trip) didn't know was that we had to drive 6.5 hrs to get over to the north entrance. The reason I think Spencer knew is because he pulled all of our bums out of bed at 0430am to leave at 0530am. Don't ask why or how...I don't know. Along the way we went through part of west Yellowstone around the outside and saw a pack a wolves. That's right a PACK, 5! The alpha male or female was hauling off with the rib cage of some poor animal and I must say it was AMAZING! Spencer was super happy after that of course. After getting to the park we saw over 500 buffalo, several big horn sheep, elk, antelope...it was great.

Who are you looking at?

Pit Stops...

At the river by the north entrance.

Beautiful and cold but the smiles are all warm!

So due to the fact that our favorite campground is under aprox 10 feet of snow we stayed in a hotel. The funny thing was the kids have never stayed in a hotel before. When we got in the room Lukas asked where we were going to set up the tent and MaKynzee kept asking whose house we were in. It was really funny so of course we let them brake it in...they jumped on the beds, took a bath, watched TV and oh the "cool" water cups...it was so cute!

Day 2 we set out on quite the adventure we were going all the way over to Cooke City (northeast entrance). So many animals to see but oh the snow! After a morning of driving we got to our favorite spot that always has lots of animals. The kids were sick of the car so we broke out their winter gear and while dad took pictures, mom played in the snow with the older two. We made a snow man...

MaKynzee "loved" Mr. Snowie as she affectionately named him.

and had a great snow fight....

That was all Lukas wanted to do was have a snow fight. Well with 3 elk, a handful of buffalo and about 7 big horn sheep to keep Dad busy...

(yep all on one mountain side... you can tell why it is our favorite spot) Lukas got his snowball fight. Then we headed off for Cooke City. First of all there was about five feet of snow on EVERYTHING, the local shops only had snowmobiles parked around and the gas station had 8 snow machines parked there. Crazy?? I think we only saw one other car on the road and was cut off by a maybe, 12 year old on a snow machine. Yep I wanted to get the heck out of there before we were snowed in. So we headed back home and out of the snow. It was a fun trip and successful for our photographer. Happy Spring Break right?

Happy 4th Birthday MaKynzee!

2011-03-20T16:01:00.000-07:00

I woke up way early to get all the cooking done for the parties MaKynzee had on Wednesday. We celebrated a day early. She was able to take these "cupcake" green rice krispies to preschool. She was all decked out in green, complete with crown.
Our Irish Princess

Fun "cupcakes"

After preschool she got to go shopping with Aunt Melanie and Grandma Bowen and pick out her birthday presents while mommy finished the cakes and decorating.

The Cakes...MaKynzee wanted a princess cake and tiara cake. I did my best...

Then we all loaded up and went to Blackfoot to swim. That was all MaKynzee kept talking about was a swim party and mom did not want to disappoint.

The entire gang...we were so happy that the Texas clan could make it for MaKynzee's big day! Thanks!

The Princess with her "Prince" Grandpa Bowen

Our little family.

So funny...Bowen's first time swimming...

Looks happy right? It got a lot better, he never did cry just gave the greatest faces.

After swimming we went to Golden Corral for dinner so everyone could eat what they wanted. It was great there was a animal balloon maker. He was brilliant! He made everyone a special animal of their choice and MaKynzee's was made out of Happy Birthday balloons.

Left to right: Brookelyn/unicorn, Alex/TRex, Lukas/Flying Fish, Kira/Lady Bug, Ivy/Butterfly, MaKynzee/Birthday butterfly and Lily/Unicorn. It was so cool.

MaKynzee opening presents...

Our little Irish baby on St Patty's, MaKynzee even gave him the crown to "keep safe".

Happy Birthday Princess, we really hope that you had a great day we love you!

Oh, sweet Daisy.

2011-03-02T10:04:00.000-08:00

So our cute little teddy bear hamster died. She has been going for a while. I noticed because when I cleaned her cage the running wheel wasn't being used and when I put her in her ball she just sat there. Right before I left for Texas I noticed she had a limp and wasn't eating much. I have made it a habit to say goodnight and check on her. I said good night to her Friday night and then Saturday morning she was gone. I was really shocked with the kids reaction. I sat them down in a circle and told them Daisy went to heaven. MaKynzee burst into full force tears with heaving screaming sobs. Lukas looked lost and started to cry. I guess I didn't think it would hurt them that bad. It was so sad. I started to cry too, for my kids and for her. We made her a special box as a family and then said nice things about her. Lukas really wanted to write her a note, he said through tears "Sorry Daisy, your dead." Spencer and I only smiled and I wrote the note. We all signed it.

Lukas painted the bottom and walls and put the daisies in for a pillow. MaKynzee put stickers around the sides and added this cute little heart right on top of her. Lukas wanted to add food so she would have it when she was resurrected. It was amazing how much they understand about death, life and the resurrection.

Then Spencer closed the box and took her away the kids just kept crying...actually we all were even Daddy. I don't know why but it seemed to make us stronger as a family, I just felt so close as our little family said good-bye, such love and understanding. MaKynzee will start crying out of the blue every now and then and say she misses Daisy. I miss her too.

SWEET DAISY-WE LOVE YOU!

Lukas and MaKynzee hope you have a lot of cheese in heaven

(Daisy's favorite food was this cheese shaped/flavored snack)

Growing Leaps and Bounds

2011-03-02T09:38:00.001-08:00

Bowen

Our little Bowen has been growing so fast! I can't believe we just had his 4 month check! He is 14lbs 3oz and 25.75 in long at 4 months!!! In the last month, February he has learned a lot and really impressed us.

He holds his head up 90 degrees.

He has rolled over from belly to back.

He found his fingers and hand. He just sat there staring at his hand for the longest time and then when he would move his hand he would jump and his eyes got wide. I love this time, it is too dang cute.

He found his tongue! He plays with it ALOT and loves to giggle!

MaKynzee has been making sure he stays nice and warm...didn't know we had a Russian baby eh?

This is my favorite expression that he has.

MaKynzee

MaKynzee is such a sweet heart. She is totally into clothes and school. She wants to read like Lukas. She always grabs a book and "reads" the picture. She has always loved her books.

This is her favortite page, She ran up to me and said, "Mom I can read this WHOLE book and look this is my favoite page. It has me AND hippo!" It was too cute for words.

This is my favorite project that has ever come home from the kids. It is our snowman family by MaKynzee.

Lukas

Lukas is reading now and LOVES dinosaur and animal books. Lukas is also obsessed with Wii. He has started to write alot at school and at home. I find papers all over the place that say "I love Wii. -Lukas" He brought home a paper that he had written this is what it said...

I am happy when I play Wii.

I am sad when Mom says I can't play Wii.

I am excited when I play Wii.

I am going to go play Wii.

The bold is what the teacher had them write and the rest is what Lukas wrote. Do we see a problem? He woke up yesterday and ran in..."Mom, I had a really bad dream."

"I'm sorry what happened?"

"Dad played Wii without me."

Oh! For heaven's sake the boy even dreams about it!!!

Lukas has become quite the daddy's boy. He finds his dad's stuff and puts in on or if he wants to do something he'll say "But Daddy does." I am so glad to see their relationship grow so much.

Lukas in Daddy's work shoes. Lukas said he was going to go out and fix the car when I asked him why he had them on. The look on his face is because I told him no more Wii that day! LOL.

We are just so dang happy with our kiddos around here. They are growing up so big and strong.

A True Mexican Wedding

2011-03-02T08:50:00.000-08:00

So some of you know that I have a cousin Tyrel. He happens to be only 3 weeks older than me so growing up Christina (my sister), Tyrel and I were all inseparable. We just stayed close. Well most of you know the name Tyrel because I have been trying for the last 5 years to get this guy married! Well he did! I had NOTHING to do with it. It was all about "chemistry" (she was his chemistry class TA at BYU). Anyway I was SO super excited and had the opportunity to go to the wedding. Now he married Linda a muy bonita, caliente mama from Mexico. She actually just became a citizen in November. GO LINDA! Anyway the festivities were amazing and we had so much fun, that is Bowen and I. It was in Texas and I had some family business I needed to attend to so it worked out perfect!

The "Bachelor" Party-

We waited until 1130pm one night for the bachelor! So we gave presents one night and then went to Red Robin the next night.

Our presents were...and there accompanying notes.

Hot Tamales...To heat things up.

Some "Party Pack" rubbers... To keep things interesting.

KY- To help smooth things along.

"Winter"fresh mints- To cool things down if it gets too hot.

2 Handtowels- Thought you could use a "towel" to dry off after a nice steamy shower. (those towels are half the size of my hand towels, he couldn't stop laughing. Those were his favorite present.)

At Red Robin- Tyrel, Me, My cousin Scott and his wife Sonya

The Wedding DAY

Mr and Mrs Tyrel D. Fitzpatrick- SO in Love

The Fitzpatrick (Bowen) side at the temple

Tyrel and I

Mommy, Bowen, Grandpa Bowen, Grandma Bowen

in front of the temple

Now Spencer and I have a tradition to take our own close up when we go places or do something different. Since my man wasn't there I used my newest little man!

He looks happy huh?

THE PARTY/ Reception

Tyrel kept telling us that this was going to be a true Mexican party/ Wedding reception and BOY was it.

The "band" serenading the bride and groom as dinner was served.

One tradition at a Mexican reception is they play some music while the bride and groom stand on a chair like this...

Now the groom holds up the veil and the guests form two lines...one male and one female. These two lines run around the room going around the tables with the beat and going under the veil as you passed from one side to the other. With the fast beat we were literally running! It was so much fun! I love Mexican weddings!

Cutting the cake..this is one of my most favorite pictures! Just so dang happy!

While we were down there I got to see my family including my two nieces and nephew who are so dang cute, I couldn't leave them out.

The trip was draining from the real reason I went down...family business but it was good to have a break with the wedding and we also went to an arcade/pizza place one night. It was fun, fast and hard! I love my family! I hope that we can just be happy, we are together for eternity ya know.

What a DATE Night???

2011-02-08T17:28:00.000-08:00

Yep so at the end of January, Jan.20th Spencer and I whisked away to night skiing at Pebble (our local ski "resort"). It is by far our favorite tradition thanks to lovely Portneuf who lets us go for $4/person. Gotta love that. Every time we go it reminds us how much we love it but we don't have the time or money to do it more. It was great to truly be alone just us two although I was definitely ready for Bowen when we got back!

Just US!

My Mad skills- remember it was night skiing! I could pretend to be as professional as I wanted.

Spencer had to stop so I could get a picture of him.

The Best Way to spend your time on a ski lift! Especially on date night!

Family Pictures FINALLY!!

2011-01-16T18:08:00.000-08:00

The great photographer finally humored me with taking family pictures after a REALLY tough morning, in which I let Spencer sleep in (I was trying so hard to be good), learned heart breaking news, AND tried to make biscuits but made them with baking soda NOT baking POWDER! YUCK!! The kids wouldn't eat 'em and Spencer and I gagged one down each! Oh well I am trying...one of my New Year's resolutions.

The Bagshaw 5

...

The Kiddos

...

The Girlies

...

Dad's FAVORITE girls!!

...

The Boys

...

Momma's Boys

...

The Candids

Didn't know we had ducks in the family huh?

Ok there were absolutely NO ducks on this side of the river until we stepped out to take pictures and they just kept coming!

...

Now don't you worry...I did not leave my new born in a tree with my 5 & 3 year olds. Come now...

Finally giving in and letting the kids feed the ducks. This lady came out and dropped a garbage bag full of breads out. We let the kids run over and grab the loafs and feed the ducks smaller bites. They loved it!

Too cute huh?

Never too Late...to post newborn pictures

2011-01-07T10:13:00.000-08:00

These are the amazing new born pictures I had done by our friend Megan Poulton! Bowen was exactly one week old. It took about 2 hours to get him cooperative (ie sleepy and not hungry) and then greatness, amazing and gorgeous...

...

The toy truck is one of Spencer's Jeepnies from the Philippines. It was the first time he let it out of the box since we have been married! Bowen is special!

...

Christmas and Catching Up

2010-12-30T10:36:00.000-08:00

We had our first ever school program. Lukas sang with LOTS of gusto can you tell? We were so proud he actually sang!

Our Christmas this year started out going to Afton, Wy to see Spencer's Grandma and Grandpa Bagshaw. It was a super short visit but so nice to see them. Then we headed back to Soda Springs for a Bagshaw Christmas. We were thrilled to have Grandma Rae, Justin, Heather and Ryan and their baby Bennett and ofcourse mom and dad with us this year. We learned a lot about Kowati's (LOL that is a good story) and "Ornery old men" (that is an even better story) but best of all we made memories and shared laughs that will stay with us forever.

Bowen and Bennett Christmas Eve! They will be partners in crime someday soon!

Christmas Eve Dinner YUMMY!

Our Nativity- I finally got the picture I wanted ALL SEASON!

Jesus probably didn't have a bright blue pacifier though! LOL.

Our favorite Christmas Elves! Grandpa showing off Bowen in his Xmas Eve pj's.

Christmas morning lining up...TRADITION!

Discovering what Santa left...Lukas got Hot Wheels Trick Tracks

and MaKynzee got Disney Fairies...

Later playing with presents. I painted MaKynzee's nails and then I let her paint mine...it was Christmas after all but I think my facial expression says it ALL...

Bagshaw Beauties

Watching Lukas' capsule dinosaurs grow...

MaKynzee's favorite, showing off her dress ups!

We had such a great time and I think the spirit of CHRISTmas was abundant. We are so very thankful for our Savior and what he did for us. The greatest gift we posses is the Atonement, that he gave His life for us. We acknowledge His hand in all things and thank our Heavenly Father for all of our family, the gospel and all the blessings we enjoy! We love you all! Merry Christmas and Have a FABULOUS NEW YEAR!!

A Sunday of All Sundays

2010-12-24T09:58:00.000-08:00

I don't have any pictures but I have quite the story...
OK, so Sunday morning Spencer left for morning meetings and I went and got in the shower. After I showered I woke up Lukas and showered him. Gave him his clothes and told him to get dressed. Woke up MaKynzee put her in the shower. Got Lukas breakfast. Finished Kynzee's shower and got her clothes for her. Got Kynzee breakfast.
Ok church is at 0930 and it was 0840. I was doing GREAT!!!
0850 Did my hair, the kids were done with breakfast.
0900 Mom to Lukas, "Get your socks and shoes on now."
Lukas, "Mom I'll get my shoes, you get my socks."
I went and got his socks and gave MaKynzee her tights, started to feed Bowen.
0910 "Lukas, come here. Why don't you have your socks and shoes on? MaKynzee you have your tights on but where are your shoes?" MaKynzee just walked away.
L: "You never gave me my shoes." Giving me this look like duh mom!
Mom:"Excuse me? I got the socks, you get the shoes remember."
L: "No I found the socks, you had them."
I could not contain myself I busted out laughing. "Fine Luke I'll get your shoes."
Calling to the other room, "MaKynzee what are you doing? Get your shoes!"
MaK: "I can't find them."
Mom: "You better start looking harder."
0920 Lukas has his shoes and socks on. Wahoo! MaKynzee is playing with her doll house.
Mom: "MaKynzee! Where are your shoes? What are you doing?!"
MaK: "I can't find them." I gave her quite the dirty look.
She replied not missing a beat, "Mom, I'm MAD! You haven't found my shoes!"
Mom: "NO, I'm mad! Get moving we could have left now!"
0930 We found her shoes and are late for church and I have everyone lined up at the door. I open the door and it is EXTREMELY chilly...like I was naked....I look down and....I was in my under ware!!! I NEVER got myself dressed I was so flustered getting everyone else ready.
I just kept thinking to myself... if it was a hot summer day how far would I have gotten?? AHHHHH. So do you think I am adjusting to life with three kids....LOL.

CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT? I tried to go to church in my undies!!!!! I told my visiting teacher I should buy a mirror and put it on the door so I make sure I was completly ready...she came to visit teach me and handed me a present saying, "Sorry I couldn't get you a mirror."

Hope you all have a Merry Christmas.
We had Bowen's 2 month check and he is a BIG boy weighing in at 10# 13oz and 23 3/4in. We have a giant amoung us.

Bowen's Blessing

2010-11-23T07:56:00.000-08:00

Sunday was Bowen's special day. Daddy gave him a name and a blessing. Mom was able to hear every word so she was especially happy. The blessing was perfect and heaven sent. We had so many family and friends here it was amazing. We love you all!!! Thanks so much for traveling in the snow, we know you all made sacrifices, thank you for sharing our special day.

Bowen Dale Bagshaw

Cute as EVER!!

Our three children... James Lukas, Bowen Dale, MaKynzee Ann

The new J. Spencer Bagshaw Family (our very first family picture as The Bagshaw 5)

Halloween Costumes

2010-11-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

This year was a little hard to get costumes done, but I was determined and although only half of Lukas costume was glow-in the dark...no one could tell, thank goodness...there were two super cute trick or treat-ers. Lukas was a Skeleton and MaKynzee was Tinkerbell.

Halloween Festivities started Wednesday, Oct 27 with MaKynzee's Preschool party...

"Tinkerbell" and Mrs. Sherri

The cuties came out and the parents lined up with the goodies, Lukas handed out our candy so i could take pictures. Look how cute they all are....

Then Friday was Lukas' school party and parade. Aunt Christina was so nice to get him ready and go to the school to take pictures. Mom and dad were still in the hospital with Baby Bowen. I was really upset that we missed it but something about just pushing out 7lbs kept me away.

Our first day home...the outfit is actually Spencer's when he was a baby and Lukas wore it for his take home outfit so Little Bowen did as well. Though we did have to add long sleeves underneath and pants.

Saturday was our BIG Halloween day.

I got the kiddos ready and Daddy and Grandma Bowen took them to a carnival Trunk or Treat party with the Jorgensens and then to our ward Trunk or Treat. I was so upset to miss the festivities but sure enjoyed the nap with the new man in my life.

Lukas before make-up.

Getting the face all "scary"- Lukas kept telling me "I want to look scary Mom."

Skeleton Man-

...

the back side

I made Lukas' costume with white duct tape and black sweats.

...

Tinkerbell

I made everything but the wings and shoes.

I love these two..I told them to smile, instead I got this attitude picture...I LOVE IT!

"Skeleton" looks rough around the edges and "Tinkerbell" looks so sweet but a wand can be a deadly weapon I am told.

Then I got to spend the night with...BOWEN!

Coming early we were not prepared with a costume!

Hope everyone's festivities were as fun as ours!!

He's FINALLY here!

2010-10-28T18:51:00.000-07:00

Bowen Dale Bagshaw

Oct 28, 2010

9:57am

6lbs 13oz, 20in

Mom, Dad and Baby Bowen

Daddy and Bowen

Big Brother Lukas and Bowen

Big Sister MaKynzee and Bowen

I can't believe we have three!!!

The journey here was long and hard but thanks to modern medicine and fabulous staff all was fantastic. I started contractions on Tuesday at work, got sent home cause he was coming down on my nerve and I was making my coworkers nervous. Contracted on and off all day, that night and throughout Wednesday. I had been praying that I could make it through Wed morning for MaKynzee's Halloween party and we did. Wednesday I continued to contract but at 6:00pm they were regular and I could not just walk them off. Came to the hospital at 1000pm and was admitted about 1130pm. We kept things slow so I could get the antibiotics for GBS. I got an epidural about 330am, was up all night uncomfy. Got my second dose antibiotics and the Dr came to break my water. Bowen wasn't in the right position so we labored down for an hour, called the Dr and pushed 2 1/2 times and we welcomed our little Bowen. He is so cute and worth it all.

A baby with HAIR!! We are so excited!! I loved playing with the different hair styles...Mohawk, missionary comb over, spikey fuzz. It is sooo much fun!!

Welcome little one.

Pampered and Blessed Beyond Comprehension

2010-10-17T17:57:00.000-07:00

So during the last two plus weeks we have felt an out pouring of love and service from those around us. We have amazing friends and family. To top it ALL off our "Crest Wood 5" gang decided to throw us a baby shower. My "other" mother, my best friend growing up step mom was in town! It was so special. All of our friends and family totally spoiled us. Our little guy now has winter clothes and diapers/ wipes for the first month of life. Many don't know but my maternity leave is unpaid, BIG bummer! So this was truly needed and I couldn't stop crying when I realized we really had everything we needed now. Through all of your service and sacrifice you have answered our prayers...thank you all SO much. I think the only one really ready is MaKynzee...

Hippo has become a her baby and she says she knows how to be a mommy now.

We love her.

I told her the baby can't eat with a spoon for a while so she has switched to the bottle, LOL.

Baby Shower: Friday Oct 15

The Lady in Charge, our good friend Katie...thanks lady!

Thanks to the ladies in charge behind the scenes too...Alicia, my sis Christina and everyone else who pitched in.

My wonderful guests/ support team...

We got to see our friend Megan (far right) for the first time in years! Thanks for traveling!

More support...

I love these ladies SO much.

My other "guest pictures" didn't turn out...something about covered faces.

...

This is a special cake because it was made by Kay and Alicia. They are really good!

Opening presents and chatting...

It was such a blast and so much love. Truly I am very blessed and spoiled by all these women. THANK YOU!!

...

I know I don't look very big and have mentioned that it is cause for alarm...this is why...

August 2010

So I went home and had Spencer take this picture.

(right) October 15, 2010 Not much change :0(

We see the Dr on Tuesday and we will let you all know how we are doing!

We are the CHAMPIONS my friends....

2010-10-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

Ok so we have to brag a little bit. My really fabulous friend called about a month maybe a little more ago and asked, "What do you think of a Pinewood Derby for the Sept ward activity?" Hey I was excited and I knew I had a little boy who LOVES to play with cars and a big boy who would die for the chance to show off his master skills. I responded, "Heck ya! That would be awesome. We have so many little and "big" boys that would LOVE this. Were in." Well she got a little bit of gruff but the activity went on as planned. They had two work nights, the first we showed up a good hour and half late to and the second one we were in the hospital. So I was pretty bummed but thank you BEDREST... we got it all done.
...

Daddy and Lukas sanding "The Bat Mobile"

The "Bat Mobile" actually started as the Speed Racer car but then when it got down to painting Lukas saw the Bat Mobile and liked it much better, "it's cooler."

...

The kids painting our cheese wedge car- "The Whizz"

I wanted this to be a family project and we did really good making sure everybody helped.

...

Our "gloss" finish...

...

October 8, 2010: The night of the races...

I got permission to go and SIT! Which I think I did pretty good. Our friends the Hinton's really out did themselves with this activity. All the fans lined up for the first races...

...

The Bat Mobile ready to go...

...

Lukas watching it cross the finish line!

...

Unfortunately I put too much hot glue with the weights in the bottom of the car. Spencer quickly remedied the situation, Thanks Dad! The Bat Mobile soared after that and ended in 8th place overall!

...

THE CHAMPION LINE UP... The Whizz had only lost one race by coming in second and was now in the FINAL. It all came down to this...

...

THE CHAMPION....THE WHIZZ

With a time of 2.987!

Daddy couldn't help but grin and I think deep down he was proud when everyone asked him what his trick was. His reply, "Don't spend too much time on it." That's my man! Simple and yet so calculated!
...

The Co-Owners of The Bat Mobile

Mommy and Lukas

...

The Co-Owners of The WHIZZ

Daddy and MaKynzee

...

The Champion- THE WHIZZ

Really we want to THANK the Hinton's for an amazing night and for pushing through with such an amazing idea. Everybody had a blast!

The EXCITING things that have happened...

2010-10-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

MaKynzee's first Day of Preschool

(a little late I know)

This little lady is beyond ready especially after taking her big brother to school.

I can not believe how big she is!

I totally lost it after I pulled away. At least with Lukas I wasn't alone, there was my Kynzee and a pine cone. The car was just empty...but not for long I know.

...

She thought it was the coolest thing to hang up her backpack.

I asked her what her favorite part was and she said, "There are two Kira's in my class. MY Kira and another one. But mom I get to go with MY Kira."

Homework??

The boys doing "homework". Daddy was sitting working on his laptop and I asked Lukas what he wanted to do for homework and he said "Letters with Lightning McQueen like daddy"

Dang they are one in the same!
...

MaKynzee being cute!

I have been waiting for this for a long time. MaKynzee found my slips and dress shoes as "dress ups." She was so proud, "Mom, I pretty like you and look how shiny."

I hope she never loses this sense of "Mommy is SUPER-woman" and "so pretty"-

yeah who am I kidding? LOL
...

...

SCARY!!

OK, so some might be aware that I was in the hospital. I was working on Friday we had 17+ babies so maybe I did too much, ya think? Anyway I started having contractions about 10am by 2pm they were every 7 min apart. SO called the Dr went down and by the time I was admitted they were 5 min. apart. The tears started to come. I was scared. They shot me with "terb"/ terbutaline to stop contractions. Didn't do much, gave me a second dose and the steroid for the baby's lungs. At this point I really started to think about what would happen...our baby would be 4.5 lbs, probably on some O2, feedings well depends on the kid but sucking reflex not so good. I started to think who the peds on call was....just everything. Then they checked me and I was 3cm dilated. At this point I lost it. I am selfish, I want a healthy baby!!! I love the NICU girls we have at work but all I could think about was all the times I teared up in the NICU taking care of those precious tiny little people. I was alone for a few hours to ponder on all the good too, we really are blessed, everything would be ok. Spencer and Dad Bagshaw arrived some time later, gave me a blessing and almost 30 min later I got the ok to go home but on strict bed rest with potty privilege only. I have been a very good girl minus one trip to the Library to get some books (Spencer wheeled me around in the wheel chair so I think I have been good.)

So many have asked what do we need...we need your prayers. That is all, with the medicine I am taking and staying in bed we are doing good. Just need the extra blessings of heaven right now to keep baby and body in harmony. Thank you all for your concern, prayers and thoughts. We love you all! Never a dull moment in a Bowen/Bagshaw household!

Missing Out??

2010-09-29T15:28:00.001-07:00

Ok, so there are several events in our lives that we think are important or worth while. Well last Sunday was one of those times. It was the "big" Primary Program and Lukas had memorized his line and has been actually singing songs at Family Home Evening so I was super excited...DUN..DUN..DUH!!!

...

Grandma and Grandpa Bagshaw arrived for the Program, I made sure we were 15 minutes early. The morning had gone without a hitch perfect really...after they passed the sacrament. I vaguely remember them calling all the primary kids to the front. Miss MaKynzee turns to me and says "Mom my tummy hurts."

...

-Now you might think at this point that I would get concerned but our little miss likes to use that phrase for ANYTHING. Mom, my tummy hurts I need candy...Mom, my tummy hurts I need to go to school with Lukas...Mom, my tummy hurts I need a pop and so on you see...so don't think I am the world's worst mother for my response-

...

MaKynzee, "Mom, my tummy hurts."

Mom, "Do you need some fruit snacks?"

( I am DEAD serious, those were my exact words)

AND THEN...

ALL OVER!!! She covered my left side, hit the bench which then went down the cracks! Mess, mess and more mess. I grabbed her and ran. She made it to the trash for the next round.

So I go back leave Grandma and Kynzee in the foyer and try to help clean up. I made two trips and most chunks cleaned up (thanks Papa!) when the dad from the family in front of us says, "Um, your what stinks." I look down not realizing how bad I looked. I hadn't heard a single part of the program but other mother duties were calling. I race MaKynzee and I home. I take a spit bath for my side and tummy, change to another dress and put Kynzee in pj's run back to church so I can at least hear Lukas' line and ONE song. I bolt in like a mad pregnant woman (leaving Kynzee in the car)....and find the primary kids singing the last line of the LAST song. I missed it. I totally missed it. I sunk my shoulders, started to tear up and Spencer came and gave me a hug. He took the now boppin' around Kynzee home so I could go to the rest of church but still I was devastated!
...

Fast Forward...worked Monday and Tuesday, kids doin' good other than a little bit of the runs from MakYnzee but nothin' much.

...

Wednesday, Sept 29, 2:00AM

Screams fill my ears. This has to be a dream right? "Mom! Mom!" I run in Lukas is covered! He had...

Everything including the kid was soaked. Threw the kid in the shower, gathered up the bedding. Trying to stay calm and honestly I was thinking "this is good practice, I will be up in the wee hours again soon, HAH, LOL" My positive thinking went out with the next...

"Mom! Mom!" This time cries from MaKynzee. I run in thinking please no, please!

No puke just poo.

"I sorry mom! It was an accident. Mom! It burns, help." Once again a child huffed off to the bathroom. Bedding inspected and taken. I think to myself as ALL the lights are on in the house but our bedroom light, "Where is Spencer?" Oh yes...

I loose all sense of "positive." I very venomously walk in and state, "Do you have any idea that your house is in total upheaval! Get out of bed MAN and do something!" I think he came out 10 minutes later when... the messes were in the washer, the kids dressed again and heading to bed. Spencer tucks Kynzee in and comes to our room I have Lukas on the floor, puke bowl in hand and Spencer says, "What's wrong?" And then there was...

a great destruction in the land!!!!!

So no sleep till about 6am between the 2 kiddos! Mama is tired and ready to BRING IT ON! I think I will greatly appreciate new born poop after all of that!

Short but Sweet

2010-09-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

So this weekend we made a very short but sweet trip to Boise for our new nephew Ryan Bennett Achatz's blessing (Spencer's sister's new addition). We left after I worked Saturday about 6pm (I got off early thank goodness) and then drove to Boise. Went to bed late, woke up early. Lukas wanted to play with "the boys" as he calls them. When we told him we were going to his cousin's house he said "The Boys?" Yep, and he went boppin' around screaming. Anyway he spent a few hours in the morning playing....

The handsome boys: (L to R) Landon, Cole and Lukas

He was so happy! They set up all these dragons and super heros and were going to "battle."
"I love these boys Mom." We are so happy you love Landon and Cole! We don't get to see them often but he really loves his boy cousins.

...
Then we went to church and the blessing was very sweet and the spirit was abundant! The little man of the hour...
Ryan Bennett Achatz

Grandma/ Mom Bagshaw got up and bore her testimony and it really meant a lot to us. She had all her children and grandchildren there. It was very touching.
...
Then we ran off to a park and had a little lunch together with all the family from the blessing.
The Achatz Family
Ryan, Bennett and Heather

MaKynzee meeting Bennett.

Then of course being the little photographer/ memory keeper I am, I got all the cousins together with Grandma and Papa.

Family is so very important and we were glad we could run up and be with the Achatz on their special day. We love you!

Oh tears....our baby went to kindergarten

2010-09-03T07:20:00.000-07:00

Today, Friday was our first day of school.

Getting ready to go...our new school clothes. I can't believe how grown up he looks.

Ready to walk to school...I love his smile!

Walking to school...daddy wanted pictures- play by play.

Finally arrived...Greenacres Elementary!

Lukas meeting his teacher, Mrs Angle.

The moment I was waiting for...I knew it couldn't be avoided...

Teacher, "Find your name."

Lukas, "They forgot me."

Teacher, "James, it is right here."

Lukas looks at the name and turns, "Whose name is that??"

We have tried really hard to work on him learning his FULL name and when you ask him his "full name" he says "James Lukas Bagshaw" but he doesn't understand why people think they can call him "James"-

"My name is Lukas!"

His teacher was super nice and went and grabbed a piece of paper, "I make a list of things like this so I don't forget."

Oh he won't let you forget!

Yep, I totally teared up... MaKynzee did the entire lay on the ground and kick her feet tantrum. She wanted to stay at school with "my Lukas."

I left the house with my son and came home with a pine cone. Yeah that's fair.

Lukas said he didn't want us to be alone.

This month in pictures...

2010-08-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

First week Aunt Karen passed away.

Second week we had Aunt Karen's funeral on Monday,

Heather (Spencer's sister) had a handsome baby boy Bennett on Tuesday,

Brian (Spencer's cousin) got married on Thursday.

Then we took two breaths fresh air...maybe.

The next week... The Bowen clan arrived on Tuesday. Meaning my mom, Melanie (my sis) and her three kiddos. We literally lived at my sister's (Christina) house to make sure we got quality time with the San Antonio folks till I worked on Friday. Poor Spencer came for dinner and went home, just worked and tried to get over the fact that he had to start school the next week.

Breaking it down-

Tuesday- School clothes shopping- yep with all 7 kids.

Wednesday- Let see in between my two work meetings...

Our BYUI groupie- Crestwood 5 got together at the lake.

We were all roommates or our husbands were and then we all married roommates, get it? It takes too long to explain. It is cool. Special occasion was Tabitha (far right) was here from N. Carolina so we HAD to get together!

We went to Blackfoot's lake and of course the kids managed to find a fishie...

Thursday- Ross Park and Ice Cream

Alex and Ivy

MaKynzee with Lily

Christina, Melanie and Ivy, Alex and My Mom enjoying the lazy river.

My Mom and I with my babies

The awesome and outrageous 7!

Some kid pooped in the pool so we had a longer 5 min break...

The girls decided to dance to the music...here is MaKynzee.

Me...you know you want to see my belly.

Enough said I think I am doing pretty good.

Off to get ice cream to cool down. I am not quite sure why she gets the cutest messy faces...

Looks like we painted the mustache. Look Grandpa Bowen- are you jealous??

I worked Friday through Sunday. Friday the car died. Sunday night we had our long lost friends over for dinner.

Monday we ALL died...end of story.

And the kids start soccer this week, BRING IT ON!

WOW! Look how cute...

2010-08-25T18:19:00.000-07:00

Ok so things have been really crazy. I honestly don't know where the last two weeks have gone but hey. We are all alive. Ok and I wanted to post just really quick our latest excitement with Baby #3. Ok so i guess I scared alot of people with the title of my last blog, "An Angel Went Back to Heaven." Aunt Karen was an angel, and I didn't realize that some might think it was our little peanut. Anyway we had the ultrasound to check him out and got the perfect profile pictures....

OK now look at this next one and pay special attention to his cute little nose...

See how flat and long, no cute little turn up at the end, that's right "He's got Daddy's nose." Spencer's reply to this was "I told you we should have stopped while we were ahead." Oh, come on he will be the cutest kid with the famous "Bagshaw" nose. And as to his position, he is no longer transverse but frank breech...yep feet up by the ears, butt to butt. That is a knee in the middle of the screen there for those of you who think...well don't think! Anyway we are happy and healthy, sorry to make some worry!

An Angel Went Back to Heaven

2010-08-08T11:59:00.000-07:00

Karen Joy Nobbs

February 21, 1944-August 6, 2010

Karen was an amazing women. Karen is Spencer's great aunt but refers to her as "Another Grandma." She was locked inside a handicap body but you would have never known as her personality was one of light and life. She would not allow her body to stop her from doing the things she wanted. Her laugh was so contagious and we sure enjoyed her uplifting spirit. Spencer's most favorite memories are going to BYU games with her. He says her enthusiasm and excitement at the games made every game fun. My favorite memory is going to the temple and watching her make covenants and perform the endowment with no hesitation to her handicaps. Lukas and MaKynzee remember her most fondly with a helmet on and her teddy bear that has a BYU shirt and sitting in a wheelchair. Whenever we visited Karen, she would graciously allow the kids to play with the bear and it would light up Karen's face. She will be sorely missed but what a beautiful and grand reunion she must have had with her Father in Heaven and family.

We Love You, Karen!

Enjoy your new "whole" "body" and missions on the other side!

My very own blog

2010-08-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I started my very own blog. You see there have been so many things I have wanted to share but didn't because this is our "family" blog. So if you would like to follow it too, it is

http://www.brandeespeaks.blogspot.com/

I'm going to be sharing the funny, the inspiring, the deepest thoughts/ parts of me and for some reason I think I should... so if you would like to read/ follow, you may. Thanks for your support. Happy reading.

Brandee

What the kiddos have been up to!

2010-08-01T16:21:00.000-07:00

Lukas has a new exciting passion...vacuuming! Mom is excited and hopes to be able to teach him how to do the WHOLE floor! He has been such a helper.

MaKynzee started this new thing where she puts one new toy a day under her pillow for bed. I usually don't care but the other night this is what was there...

She was like WHAT? And I was like "That is a freakin' keyboard!!" She just smiled and shrugged her shoulders. What could be there next!?

Lukas got Guess Who from Grandma and Grandpa Bowen. After about 2 hours we finally understood how to play and after about 3 more hours mom was ready to mail it back to Texas! Can I please have a break? He loves it, the only thing is he changes his character once you guess something right, so we are still working on that.

Studying the board!

The baby gave us quite the scare the other night. I woke up in ALOT of pain...like shooting pain and freaked. Not NOW! Labor isn't supposed to start now. I rolled one way then the next, I could feel the baby doing something and my belly was rock hard. After it seemed like minutes I am sure seconds and just when I was about to call 911 or go the hospital I had this gut wrenching pain and then the baby flipped and POOF no more pain. I talked to the Dr the next day (gotta love working with your Dr). Turns out the baby was transverse (laying lateral) and flipped to head down. All is OK but I lost my belly, I mean it is smaller. It is funny because almost everyone noticed and kept asking where the belly/ baby went. Well I tell you where he went DOWN and in my back! More cyatic pain and back is killing me. Baby is happy/ healthy and definitely the most active of the three. I go tomorrow for an apt and hope to get the "profile" ultrasound pic I really want.

July (so far) in Review

2010-07-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

Ok so we really need to catch up and I am going to have so many pictures too but that is ok, right? Ok well let us review the last 3 weeks in the Bagshaw clan....

First I cut MaKynzee's hair...FINALLY! Three years and 4 months!

Oh dear...to her bum!

The first cut....

I don't know how I got brave enough to cut it myself but I did. It is super cute and feels alot thicker now. All pretty and ready for church. This is the first time I have ever curled her hair and the first time she completely picked her outfit. Pretty good eh?

Second we went to Alexandria Reservoir in Soda with our Bishop and his family...

Lukas being lazy in the water, no fear there for him.

MaKynzee loving the tubes!

Our very first sand castle with the kids! This is Lukas with some grandkids of Bishop.

...

then we ended up camping in Georgetown with them at their cabin.

Our happy campers...

The kids LOVED the four wheelers.
Kynzee wanted to switch because daddy goes too fast...then after a while with me she said "I want to go back with daddy, he's not boring." Gee Whiz... wasn't I going slow for her!

Lukas and mommy enjoying the ride and view. It was AMAZING up there.

Spencer getting his "perfect" shot...on top of the car! We went to the Wildlife Bird Refuge near Bear Lake so he could take some pictures.

then we went to Montpelier for fireworks.

Lukas had a blast with sparklers and fireworks but MaKynzee...

hid in Bishop's car. Can you see the tear? She wasn't even happy on one of our laps.

Then we got to watch my sister's girls for a week while she was at class. We had lots of fun!

Then we had a few days to work and pack for our trip to Yellowstone.

Spencer got to open his present early because it was important for the trip. It is a camera case backpack. He was ooooo so happy!

YELLOWSTONE

Our first day was Lukas' 5th birthday! Instead of famous birthday pancakes we brought him doughnuts.

The kids at Wraith Falls. It was a 1/2 mile hike to something beautiful and hidden. We loved it.

The kiddos at Grotto geyser

The family at Morning Glory....gorgeous.

At geyser basin...

Daddy getting his "great" shot!

Yellowstone week was also the boys birthdays, so we fit it in a little during the week outdoors but celebrated with family Monday night (really just for Lukas).

I attempted to make a Lightning McQueen cup "cake" but Lightning ended up hot pink and I cried!

Lukas opening presents

He wanted a Lightning McQueen skate board, we compromised for a scooter! One happy 5 year old.

Now everyone is pretty excited because when the kids asked when the baby was going to come I would say after Lukas and Daddy's birthday. So now they keep asking when is the baby coming. I have changed to "after Halloween and you get lots of candy"... the fact that this baby will have the next birthday is pretty exciting. Still baby No-name but we are working on it. Nothing fits just yet.

Father's Day and Who's belly is that??

2010-06-27T17:59:00.000-07:00

So this year for Father's day was an extra special treat because we were home! Spencer got a few little things from the kids and I. I asked him what he wanted for dinner he said dutch oven cooking. I prepared...he cooked! He is so happy cooking outdoors! I don't say enough about how good Spencer is to us.

*He is dedicated to providing for his family, the last three years have been really hard on him as he just did school-no job- just me working... then last summer he got an internship, PAID, and the man has been happy ever since.

*He loves to cook and I take advantage of his killer grill skills. He is a worthy priesthood holder who is always ready to give blessings.

*His love for the outdoors includes being with his family. Nothing came make this man happier than a trip to a national park with his family in a tent and a camera in his hand!

*He has developed a much better relationship with the kids. Poor guy I think is afraid of babies (yes we are about to have another one) but he loves being able to do things with the kids, not just hold them and change their bum. He has grown so much into the role of father. Thanks for all you do babe!

We gave Daddy rock bookends- blue of course and a book... Total Money Makeover (he has been listening to Dave Ramsey for a while now and you can never get the book from the library, it is always on hold!)

We love daddy- yes sir-ree

Doing what our daddy loves...outdoor dutch oven cooking!

Ok so alot of people have been asking about my baby bump...big, small, GIGANTIC?? Who knows... well here it is for all of you. I am just thankful that today at church the other 5 sisters due around the same time all seem to have bumps now... I was only 8 weeks earlier! I am 20 weeks and NO there are NOT twins, thanks for asking though!

I tried to take pictures last week but it didn't work but MaKynzee wanted everyone to see her tummy too. She is so dang cute.

Bad angle...oh boy that is BIG! But man I am a happy woman!

Talking to our little man, "Be good and grow strong!"

Drum roll please......

2010-06-23T20:57:00.001-07:00

So today was the BIG day. We had our ultrasound and.....

Not very shy is HE? It was right out there and the tech kinda giggled and said "well if you didn't want to know... you would know now anyways."

He was not being cooperative and hid his face though, so no face pictures but that is ok. He was so active during the ultrasound I was just SO happy. It was like a whole bunch of weight lifted off my shoulders, he is there and so far PERFECT!

Perfect two feet, ten toes. I totally teared up at this one...

They kinda look like bear paws huh?

Our favorite part was when he started to wave. I was like "oh look he has his hand up, waving" and then right then it shook. The tech was like, "that wasn't me, he really waved. You have quite the active baby."

He just wanted mom to know he was ok. Spencer couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear after we saw it was a boy. I am finally 99% excited and 1% scared! Ok maybe 50/50 but at least it isn't 90/10 the other way.

Celebrations

2010-06-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

So we had a weekend in Soda to welcome home our Alabama missionary. His talk on Sunday was really good, it touched the soul. And thank goodness he still has his fabulous sense of humor and started out by saying something to the effect of... "I served in the Birmingham, Alabama mission. I spoke two languages Redneck and Southern." We are so glad he is home. He is quite the life of the party...I mean family.

Saturday afternoon we went and played Frisbee golf...

Spencer and Brandee

Dad and Mom

Ryan and Justin

Grandma Rae, We are so proud! You did fantastic!

The kiddos:

Brookelyn and Kira

MaKynzee and the Hobbit (Lukas)- We forgot some jackets so he was wearing Uncle Arik's jacket and it was like this little green man that blended in with the grass.

Where do we go now???

The whole Bagshaw Frisbee Golf gang! We really had a lot of fun. We would love to do it again!

Then we went home for a Surprise baby shower for Heather (Spencer's sister)! It was airplane themed as Ryan (ie dad and Heather's husband) is a pilot. It turned out super cute and Heather really was surprised!

Mom hung airplanes from the ceiling! C-U-T-E!

We decided you can never get enough diapers so we made her a diaper cake...turned out pretty neat I think!

Best Wishes and Good Luck Heather and Ryan!

Sweet Weekend

2010-06-07T15:38:00.000-07:00

Ok so I had visions of grandeur when I asked my sister if I could steal her children for a weekend. I envisioned playing at the park, going to the zoo and all sorts of fun OUTDOOR activities. Well the weather did NOT cooperate and so we only made it to the park once and since Uncle Spencer worked Saturday we didn't have a car but who cares it just rained. Sunday coming home from church we were teased with sunshine and a whopping 71 degrees. We planned a little drive up the mountain and found this...

Now I was pretty upset, usually the view is gorgeous and the kiddos could explore. Instead all I could think about was "Eclipse" and new born vampires/ monsters popping out of the trees. Then I turned and saw that I had four with me...LOL.

Totally looks like something from a Twilight movie eh??

Anyway we had fun, I love stealing my Jorgensen girlies for the weekend.

...

...
Kynzee's hair keeps getting longer and NO I still haven't cut it yet. She has this thing right now where she wants to brush it all by herself. So here are where her efforts landed her...she was crying but when she saw my expression...she just started to laugh too.

At least she is laughing!

We are all doing fine and Peanut #3 has been a little bit nicer so thank heavens for that!

Oh dang has it been a month??

2010-05-27T16:16:00.001-07:00

Well just a little update on us...

Spencer finished another semester. We still have two left! He is working full time at his internship now and that makes him a happy boy. He also has got himself some new camera toys so he is a happy boy.

Brandee has decided that memory loss for previous pregnancies might just be an evil thing. I have been so sick and the Dr definitely frowned as the scale went down. But I brought the kiddos to my last appointment and as soon as the Dr found the heartbeat Lukas beamed and yelled "That's my baby!" It was super cute. I am getting better or I am going to MAKE me be better.

Lukas has been the busy bee. He graduated from preschool and had his last soccer game. He did really good this season with a Hat trick game and scoring two goals in the last, he was super proud of himself. We also enrolled him in kindergarten (I still can't believe my baby is going to be in kindergarten!!!) He tells us all he wants to do is go camping this summer so we are looking for local camp grounds for little over nighters.

MaKynzee has become quite the "lady." She is now potty trained and loves to tell anyone that she wears panties now so she can go to preschool (you have to be potty trained for our preschool) so she is pretty proud of herself. She is a little Ariel and turns everything into a song. She has a special spirit too...she always talks about Jesus standing by her. At lunch she said Jesus was watching and is happy. Makes you get goosebumps.

Recent Conversations

MaKynzee was throwing a huge fit as we were about to leave.
Mom, "Kynzee you better stop or you can't go."
MaKynzee continued to whine....
....
Lukas, "MaKynzee, why don't we just put you in a cage!"
-
-

1:40am
MaKynzee screaming....
Mom gets up, "Kynzee stop screaming, what do you need."
Kynzee, "My tummy hurts!"...more screaming...
Mom, "What do you need!"
Kynzee, "Medicine, good medicine"....more screaming
-Now mom is tired and upset and really not happy about wanting "good medicine" which means I just want medicine. And when I have these moments with my kids and they are crying and "need" medicine, I have two options 1.multivitamin 2. Tums (great calcium supplement). i hate giving kids meds when they don't need it but I also believe that sometimes "medicine" can work wonders and bytheway did i mention it was 1:40AM!!-
Mom gives Kynzee a tums and a glass of water. Mom goes and gets back in bed letting out a huge sigh, looks at the clock...2:10am.
2:11AM
MaKynzee screaming....
Mom runs in a little upset, she just closed her eyes "What MaKynzee?" (a little too harsh)
Kynzee "Mom I really want to make it back to Jesus."
Now tell me how I am supposed to be mad, I totally melt, pull her close and tell her "Me too."
Kynzee, "Jesus loves you"
I feel the spirit and a comfort I was in desperate need of.
Mom, "I love you"
Kynzee, "I know."
Mom goes back to bed a complete mess, crying and all emotional. Two amazing things just happened...I got proof I am teaching Kynzee right AND...
...
Jesus remembers me and answers my prayers. What more can a girl ask for at 2:00AM!

Bagshaw Math

2010-04-22T08:18:00.001-07:00

1+1=2

2+1=3

3+1=4

4+1=....Coming NOVEMBER 15!!!

We wanted to wait to tell but I am really not good with secrets and neither is this baby cause I have quite the bump!

Too Much Fun Around Here

2010-04-15T18:36:00.000-07:00

Thus dawns another soccer season...limping and ALL!

Lukas still has a limp after getting his cast off and all the parents were going..."oh, poor kid." Then they were looking around for the horrible mother who brought the hurt kid. ME, ME! Yep, you should have seen the fit when I told him maybe we should wait a week. He said, "But mom you told me it was all better! Look!" And he limps across the room, throws his hands up and says "Geesh!" OK here we go. He did really good, so much better than our days of picking weeds and playing with the horses last soccer season.

His really great run....

...

I was SO proud he beat the tall kid even with his limp! Oh and mother's joy! You should of seen one of the moms face as I yelled, "Run Lukas, RUN!" I bet she was probably wondering where her cell phone was so she could call the cops about child cruelty.

He did great, no goals but a HUGE score for effort! We hope the limp will be better by the end of the season! Wish him luck!

Also this week we went and did family pictures at the park. We did it for our friends, they need an adorable profile picture for their adoption file. Spencer got some SUPER cute pictures of them and they in turn took pictures of us. Anyway we had a lot of fun and got some great pictures...

Daddy and Mommy

...

The Whole Bagshaw Gang

It was REALLY funny when Uncle Arik ran by doing his daily exercise...we can find family ANYWHERE!!!

Then we tried to get some shots for MaKynzee's 3 year old pics. She was all "dolled" out I think but we still got some cute shots...

She kept saying "mom I want my hand up like this, mom like this!" Whaooooo watch out world here comes Princess Kynzee!

I love this picture although it is attitude it also has a softness to it...She is looking, longing for something...the end of the shoot!

Catching Up With the Bagshaws

2010-04-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

So Easter was super fun. We went to Soda, we really wanted to go on a hike or two and let Spencer take pretty pictures but it snowed and snowed and snowed. So much for a hike! Anyway we really enjoyed conference and because the kiddos had some entertainment (their cousins) it was relatively uninterrupted.

Easter morning....

Lukas woke up the girls, as you can see they were not quite awake yet.

DAZED- very dazed.

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Kynzee finding her basket...

gee- pull up your pants girlie!!! LOL

...

Her prize...

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Lukas finding his basket...

He was upset..."The Easter Bunny hid mine HARD!!"

uh-huh ;0)

...

His prize...

His smile is just so contagious!

...

Unfortunately for Mom and Dad Bagshaw they have been making several trips to Pocatello...unfortunate because Mom just can't seem to kick this sickness she has had for almost 2 months now! Poor girl...she is hanging in there like a trooper. But since she has to come for Dr appointments the kids LOVE to play with them when they stop by...

Lukas stole Papa's glasses and "pretended" to be "asleep." I want to know who is that happy when they are asleep...

Silly boy!

...

So I always wondered what the kids would look like in glasses especially due to their father's great genes...

If he looks half as cute I don't think I have much to worry about!

...

Our Sweet Rapunzel...

So I keep saying I am going to cut MaKynzee's hair but then I can't bring myself to do it. It is now about 2cm from her bum when wet. I just think it is SO pretty and I don't want to cut off her baby curls...OH dear I am so sappy!

**Of special note MaKynzee pooped in the potty for the first time tonight! This sent her mother in a frenzy of excitement...potty trained here we come!

What did I get done this week?

2010-03-28T17:17:00.000-07:00

WOW! I look around my house and the clutter is mounting and the clothes are piled high. I sigh and take a look around again and see my husband playing with Lukas and MaKynzee helping me with dinner and I realize...everything is perfect. I look back over the week and see working 4 out of 5 days in the beginning of the week drains me and my kids....

First day home I attempt to clean but shouts of "Mommy play with me?" echo in my ears and I sigh again and find my little people waiting with eyes wide and hearts filled...their mommy is home. I crawl around in tents, get slaughtered in cowboy/ Indians and try my hardest to find a dress up that fits...but the smiles silent my quiet calls of "can't I just clean today!" I find myself making another fort and peering out see breakfast and lunch dishes still on the table...oh well... princess needs her horse and Lukas needs a hero. On and on I play for three days...I think if anyone sees my house they would run...Spencer smiles when he comes home and sees I am tired but the house is still disoriented..."Did you get to play today?"

You see I might not be the best house keeper but I have learned a very hard lesson....the house can wait, the dishes can sit, the laundry can pile high cause my babies don't care if we have to run in our underware...they just know their mommy played. I am NOT trying to toot my own horn! I am just trying to share a special thing I learned...my dishes did get done and we are not in our underware so I still got things done but I made the greatest choice to put it all LAST! So look at your babies wherever they are and think when was the last time you put it "ALL" last and just "played"?

Irish Princess Day- YEAR 3

2010-03-24T10:44:00.000-07:00

So still can't seem to get pictures off cameras but here are pictures from my camera. Makynzee's birthday was filled with phone calls, love and FUN. We took her to her favorite place to play (when it's cold)... the library.

Our Irish Princess on the phone!

Then we took her out for ice cream, then we had lunch, her favorite mac and cheese and we made it green. (I know ice cream first bad mommy...but hey it WAS her birthday!)

...

the kiddos helping...it was so much more fun to cook GREEN stuff

LUNCH is GREEN

...

Then Lukas humored her by playing with her in dress ups...BRAVO BOY!! He is such a good brother!

...
And then I made her a hippo cake.

We finished off the evening opening presents from our San Antonio gang! It was really nice day. She had fun and when she went to bed asked..."Mom can my birthday be tomorrow and I want a princess cake!" LOL, we LOVE MaKynzee and are so grateful to have this little lucky Irish princess in our home. She brings so much joy and laughter.

Deja VU??!!!!!

2010-03-16T11:27:00.001-07:00

That is right...Deja vu! Let me show you....

Well let me show you a picture from a November blog 2008....

And just last week....

...
Getting Hippo back...then

...

And NOW...

At least now she is excited to get Hippo back and not clinging to him believing that he will leave/ drown and never come back! Yeah Hippo is clean again!!

And then there is this from our December 2008 blog....

...

And TODAY

Yep just like I said in the blog way back in Dec 08, this Bagshaw has 99% Bowen blood. The kid was playing at my sisters and decided he would jump off the stairs (probably 6 up) and try to jump on a giant bean bag. Well he missed. Not only did he miss the bean bag but the next day was Disney on Ice for MaKynzee's birthday, a present from the Jorgensens. He wouldn't walk so we left him at a friends...then Saturday was MaKynzee's birthday party and he just sat on the sides. I knew something was wrong since he wouldn't join in the fun. Sunday I had to carry him everywhere or he crawled and then Monday I took him to the Dr.... Dang this boy!!! He is supposed to start soccer at the end of the month...we'll see!

Anyway as soon as I get pictures I will blog about our fantastic Disney on Ice trip and MaKynzee's party. Both were a BLAST!! Thanks to all for coming!

The updated "STYLE" of the blog

2010-03-02T11:48:00.000-08:00

Ok, just in case your wondering why we went PINK...it is because St Patrick's day around here is all about a little "Irish Princess" So she picked out the background she liked the most for her birthday...don't worry we won't be pink forever!!!

We are LOVED...Thank YOU!

2010-02-28T19:21:00.001-08:00

This is a little late but... I would like to thank Mom and Dad Bagshaw. Mom watched the kiddos so we could do a ski night in January, it was fabulous. Then we had Mom come down again and babysit in our apartment...yes in our tiny apartment! Poor woman doesn't know if she'll be able to play memory for a while though. Mom has just been great THANK YOU!!! We also wanted to thank Dad Bagshaw for making the kids feel so special. Dad has been doing some traveling for work down in Louisiana...poor man was there after the Super Bowl but I guess it wasn't too bad. Anyway he brought home some goodies for the kids.....

Lukas and "Larry" the Lobster. He tells everybody his Papa caught it in "E-ana!" It's super cute!

....

MaKynzee and "Ally" the Crocodile. She loves the thing and hippo now has to share a blanket....Oh, boy!

...

The kids showing off their Saints shirts and what Papa "caught" in "E-ana"

Don't worry Mom and Dad Bowen I told the kids OUR team is the BRONCOS forever more!! When we told Lukas it was a football shirt he asked where the horsey was...LOL. I think we got them brain washed!

THANK YOU Mom and Dad, Grama and Papa... WE LOVE YOU!!!!

Havin' Fun the Bagshaw Way

2010-02-21T18:45:00.000-08:00

This year one of our goals was to do a monthly family activity. It is to help us do better with our budget :0) Anyway we went bowling for family night and had a blast!!! It was really fun to see the kids get into it and Spencer and I love to bowl. We bowled youngest to oldest (yes we used bumpers)...

Daddy helped MaKynzee. After she pushed the ball she raised her hands and shouted YEAH!!

At first Lukas wanted help like MaKynzee....

that didn't last long with Mr. Independent. He even went back and picked out his own ball! I think it was heavier than mine.

No pictures of me...I am sparing you all a bum shot!

Spencer always looks so professional, he lines himself up with the dots on the floor (he taught me what those dots are) and SCORE!!!

So as you can see MaKynzee was killing us all until the 9th frame...must have been Daddy's help ;0)

It was a fabulous evening!!

Valentines Day

I just want to brag about my amazing husband this Valentines because he really went out of his way....I got flowers for the first time since Valentines 2003 AND he ordered a scrapbooking item for me. He got the flowers a week early so I could "enjoy them all week" and then he made this amazing dinner...FABULOUS!!! Then he let me go with my friend for a scrapbook sleepover in Idaho Falls...It was totally energizing! He has just been flat out amazing!!

Thanks Babe, you make me so happy! I know I embarrass you with my outgoing/ loud personality and my little...well BIG quirks and when you telling me that's why you love me...it makes me love you even more! I know we've had it rough but I want you to know that I see you trying and it makes my stomach get butterflies and me love burn brighter. Thanks for all you do! I LOVE YOU BIG!

Weekend at Aunt Brandee and Uncle Spencer's

2010-01-31T16:49:00.001-08:00

So I asked Christina if I could take the girls off her hands this weekend and just have fun. Nope, no other reason just wanted to see my Jorgensen girlies and it doesn't help that Lukas and MaKynzee badger me with "When is Brookelyn coming, When is Kira coming? Let's go get em mom." So Christina brought them down Friday. We had so much fun. Saturday we went to the local petting zoo and Lukas tried really hard to have dad let us get a dog...no go... of course. Anyway it was fun they even have a new addition...a reindeer.

The Kiddos at the reindeer.

OH, a bath tub lets shove you all in it!! LOL. They humored us and we got smiles! Brookelyn asked where the paddles were....no this boat ain't going anywhere!

Proof that I got ALL the kids to feed the animals...Brookelyn refused and cried that the goat would bite her... but on the way out she decided it wasn't all that bad.

This is my Jorgensen girlies getting their groove on. You see the movie they were watching was over and it was playing music so they got out the stools are started dancing on them. Watch out Arik!!!!

My little Kira Ba-geer-ah! She was being too cute and Brookelyn bolted before I could get a pic of her...better things to do I guess.

We had such a great weekend. Thanks girls for coming!!! Melanie any time we can arrange I would LOVE to take your kiddos for a weekend too. Just don't know how that would work! Love you!

Daisy did it!!!

2010-01-18T14:19:00.000-08:00

OK so this last week Christina and Arik stopped by and we had dinner together and then the kiddos came over and played while Christina and Arik ran an errand. Well the girls had a BLAST with the dress ups and Brookelyn was totally in mommy mode. Kira and MaKynzee were her daughters and Lukas couldn't play unless he was their "buddy" (ie dog). So Lukas warped himself into the Wii.

I love that they get along so well....almost all the time :)

Then as Christina and the girls were about ready to leave Kira lets out this SCREAM. Then starts repeating Daisy did it! Daisy did it!!! Daisy had bit Kira on the tip of her finger so of course it bled like crazy!! She just kept showing us her finger and wouldn't stop saying "Look what Daisy did" or she just shoved the finger in your face and said "Daisy did it." She is the cutest little thing!

Sorry "Daisy did it" Kira- We love you!

Gotta love the concerned serious cute face she's got!

Hope it is feeling better!!

What's NEW??

2010-01-14T17:08:00.000-08:00

Ok so being home is fun. The kids are not quite back to normal...they still think they need to have a play mate all day. It is kind of rough trying to get things done but I love them and want them to be happy so I play Queen and Princess with Kynzee and then Wii with Lukas, REPEAT and try to get a load of laundry in between.

I made MaKynzee dress ups for Christmas and was wondering if maybe she wasn't ready cause she hadn't really played in them but she was in them ALL day. She is SO cute.

MaKynzee is never complete without a book, she is always "reading" to herself.

The Queen and her Princess...

This is Lukas ALL day (ok not really but if I let him)...glued to the Wii! I am trying really hard to set up good ground rules but right now I just want to get my house clean again so he has been sucked into the Wii world.

See the mess around him??!!

Ok so I desperately needed some change or pick me up in my life. I am trying really hard to be happy and healthy so I thought well lets get a make over!! So I cut my hair...

BEFORE....UHHHHH

AFTER WA...LAAAAA

I am having a hard time with the bang thing! I have not had bangs since the 5th grade!! But I LOVE the new look! Just to prove that MaKynzee is going to be a GREAT friend and totally girl power...I came home, opened the door and there was Spencer reading a book, Lukas on the Wii and MaKynzee was in her room. Spencer looks up and says, "That's not much different." Oh I'll show YOU different!!!!! Then Lukas looks over and goes "ooooo mommy" and MaKynzee comes running out of her room and says, "Wow mom you got your hair cut, it's cute. I really like it. Mom you are really pretty now!" Yep that's right just needed my girl to let me know how it really looked.

Christmas was total BLISS

2010-01-11T10:37:00.001-08:00

For Christmas we traveled down to Lehi, Utah and joined the clan for some serious partying. First and foremost let me thank my mother for coming and watching the kiddos for my surgery. I had my tonsils out and it was ALOT worse than I thought. Anyway my mom came and watched the kiddos, thanks! Your a lifesaver, love you BIG!

Ok so back to Christmas, Christmas Eve we went over to my Uncle Kevin and Aunt Margie's for lunch and it was really nice just to sit and visit and for me to watch everyone eat. Yep I was still on liquid diet because I hemorrhaged earlier that week...that's another story. Anyway then we went to Grandma Sellers and opened presents and then we went back to Grandma and Grandpa Bowen's for the nativity reenactment and testimonies. It was just a perfect day!

Christmas morning we had a BLAST, seven grandkids 4 and under, 6 kids, 2 grands and 2 great grands to share the morning with.

The kids lining up to see what Santa brought!!

Santa gave Lukas a Lightning McQueen couch and body pillow...you think he likes it???

MaKynzee got a doll house, oh so FUN!!

Lukas also got a Speed Racer game with a wheel to play with the Wii. Daddy and Lukas had a great time!

We had a gourmet meal that night with all the Bowen Family that was in town. It was perfect I must say...even though I cooked the bird! *Note: Never offer to bring a free bird you might end up cooking it!! LOL* Anyway this was the first meal I was able to have that was not MUSH!!

Cousins...cousins...MORE cousins!!! We had so much fun with the kids being all together it was really nice...although we did have fights over who was who's "best friend" LOL

The "First Bunch" I don't know why but these cousins came in packs...all in 20days!!

L to R Lukas, Alex, Brookelyn, Lily

"Second bunch"- too sweet for words these three neapolitans are!!!

L to R MaKynzee, Ivy, Kira

Sunday after Christmas, Spencer and I went up into the mountains a wee bit to take pictures. It was gorgeous with all the snow around. I don't have pictures that Spencer took but I had fun taking pictures of HIM taking pictures!

Spencer tackled me into the snow.

Spencer was literally LAYING almost IN the creek to get the pictures of the ice forming on the rocks. SCARY!!!!!

As you can see we were TOTALLY spoiled and had a fabulous time and I still haven't recooperated!!!

Xmas update....coming soon

2010-01-09T15:34:00.000-08:00

So during Christmas we took family Bowen pictures. It was WILD with 7 kiddos and 3 families and all. But we managed to "scrunch" everyone in and get a good shot. I promise to actually blog with cute Christmas pictures soon but it has been more than CRAZY here.

The WHOLE DR Bowen Clan

My babies!!! Not so baby anymore.

Wow, we're smiling???

Hope everybody had a great holiday season! Love you all!

Catching Up

2009-12-10T14:06:00.000-08:00

So my birthday was absolutely wonderful. Probably the best birthday in YEARS. Anyway it was wonderful Spencer pampered me all day and then took me to dinner and a movie. We saw 2012 and for those of you who don't know that whole destruction end of the world stuff is my favorite. I LOVED the movie. It was great and dinner was AWESOME! I got so many Happy Birthdays from everyone THANK YOU!

I wanted to post some pictures from Thanksgiving. I missed the dinner (dang those babies!! LOL) but the kids and Spencer were able to meet up with his family in Salt Lake and had a great dinner at Marie Calendar's. I guess it was worth every penny not to have to clean up afterwards or so Mom and Spencer tell me. Then Friday night I met up with the fam and we went to Temple Square, gorgeous as always. Then Saturday we went to Thanksgiving point and the kids LOVED the dinosaurs and light drive, it was perfect!

Thanksgiving Dinner

The Family holding up a HUGE crowd of people to get a pretty picture!

The kids at the temple doors. Lukas kept saying this is where the Holy Ghost lives with Jesus. I guess we are teaching them something.

MaKynzee at the reflection pool, it was gorgeous!

Playing with Dinosaurs at Thanksgiving Point

Lukas wanted to make a Dinosaur island. He was SO cute.

Makynzee liked lining up the dinos and then pushing them in. Silly girl!

Then when we got home for my birthday we set up the Christmas tree. I am bummed we don't have enough room for our other tree. Lukas was devastated! He said, "That's NOT a Christmas tree, what happened?" He really wanted a real tree. I love my little family!

3:07AM December 5, 1984

2009-12-05T08:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to Brandee, Happy Birthday to Brandee!!

Yep that's ME!

Well what can I say but I kept with my favorite tradition and called my parents at my birth time 3:07am and they sang Happy Birthday to me. It is just so special. My family is AMAZING and I am so glad to be born into this family! WOW I know most of you will be SHOCKED to here that I am ONLY 25 and the rest will think DANG she's old now. To be quite frank I have decided to make this my best year EVER!!!!! Yep and I am going to start it off with surgery on the 14th, yep sounds like a great year already....LOL!

Sweet memories....My mother

Mom- you are so freakin' amazing. You do so very much for your family and I am so grateful to call you mother and friend. You have always been such a foundation of love, thank you. I don't have words to express my love and appreciation for all you do. You would sacrifice even more than you have... for your family and I want you to know that I know that, I will always be thankful that I came to you... to learn, to grow and to be taught by the greatest teacher. I will never forget our Texas cheer trip when I finally realized how much you loved me and that we were best friends. We fought, I fought but it was only because we are too much alike and we never wanted to say it is true. But now I look back and I hope I can be a mother like you because if MaKynzee and I can be like us I will be the happiest mom EVER! I LOVE YOU!!!

Daddy's Girl

What can I say. I always adored my dad. He is the best man I know. He never lets an opportunity to serve go by. My most favorite memories are Daddy Daughter outings. Especially a Daddy Daughter sock hop. I remember Christina and I were the only ones in jeans and all the other girls looked so "cool" in their poodle skirts. I must admit I was embarrassed but then there was Dad. He flipped us and swung us and gave us the night of our lives. I didn't care what I was wearing...I had the coolest Dad there and still do! I LOVE YOU!!

My Bow- sorry Arik she will always be my "Bow"

My sister, my best friend..what is there more to say. I remember the hair pulling, the throwing, the fights but I remember better the fun memories we shared. You have always been there for me like I can not explain. We have always had that extra sense about each other and you are always there. You are such an amazing example. As I have said before and will always you are my LIGHT in the dark, my guardian angel, my twin in every aspect but birthdays. I LOVE YOU!!

Spencer has been showering me with little acts of kindness, love and presents. He is so amazing and I don't want to leave him out. He is my soul mate and I am so glad I found him...he just wasn't there for my "birth"day. But I LOVE YOU BABE!!

Florence Marie Jex Bowen 1909-2009

2009-11-29T15:05:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, November 18, 2009 my great Grandma Bowen passed peacefully into paradise. I had promised myself I would make her funeral no matter what and so we did. Spencer and I had Mom Bagshaw pick up the kids and we left Friday morning for a loooong drive to California to celebrate this great woman's life. My greatest memory of Grandma is her New Year's Eve parties. She really knew how to have fun and I remember us going out on her front porch and banging pots and pans with wooden spoons and she would yell "Louder girls LOUDER!" I also loved her smile. I don't know but when she smiled at you, you just knew you were special. I learned so much about her at her funeral too and for that I am especially grateful. I think I always knew that she was a hard worker but that was what she was remembered for the most, she never stopped serving, she never stopped loving and when she could help no more she went home....
No matter what... FAMILY is the most important thing. "Family There is Nothing Greater" It was really funny at the funeral because people would walk up to me and point and say "David's daughter right?" Yep that is me. One other person walked up to me and said, "I don't know what your name is but I know that you look exactly like your mom." Yep that is me, no matter if we were at Bowen or Sellers gatherings everyone says I look just like my mom. I am excited, I am going to look GOOD!!!!

Grandma's funeral was Saturday and the burial was Monday. I forgot the camera at the funeral but remembered for the burial.

Not all the pallbearers from the funeral were able to come to the cemetery so we got some stand-in pallbearers. They were her two sons Dean and Grandpa, her grandsons Jimmy, Junior and my uncle Chris and Spencer (cause they wouldn't let me:))

This is my Grandpa Bowen's mother. It was so sweet to see how much he loved her.

All the family at the burial and grave dedication. We had a mini (well it was over an hour) testimony or rather memory sharing time and anyone could share. This gave me the most closure and brought happiness in her passing.

My Grandma and Grandpa Bowen and I with Great Grandma one more time.

Next we went to her famous farm. My dad remembers the farm and always talks about this pool. Well it was filled in so I am "swimming" in the infamous pool. See Dad, one more swim!!

One of the things I learned at the funeral was everyone talked about Grandma's famous pomegranate jelly. I guess it was a big hit. Well when we were at the farm my Aunt Debra asked if we could take some and they said sure. It will always be a special memory to me...picking pomegranates with Grandma and Grandpa Bowen after Grandma's burial. It was just one of those special moments that you never forget. It was like Grandma was right there with us ready to pick more and make some jelly.

I LOVE this picture! I will always treasure this trip, it was worth the drive and all other sacrifices!!!

Never a DULL moment!!!

2009-11-15T18:20:00.001-08:00

We went to our friends baby blessing today. It was the sweetest blessing I have heard in a long time. It was fantastic and the sacrament meeting was on gratitude and it was perfect. Then comes lunch afterward....

First let me mention that I believe Lukas is 99% Bowen and 1% Bagshaw- I mean the kid has put his tooth through his lip three times, head glued once and probably should have been twice, broke his leg and well the poor kid is just chuck full of Bowen genes!! For those who don't know growing up a Bowen was like having a bulls eye on your back, one of us was always injured some how- some where and I am sure my mom had a first name basis with the ER. Anyway so Lukas inherited the bull's eye. So today Lukas and I walk to the front of the house which was locked so we turned around. Lukas had his hands in his pockets and totally biffed it! I mean bad! I heard a crack when he hit and there was blood everywhere. His tie was totally covered and by the time I could get him inside my hand was full of blood. I totally freaked with the two holes in his bottom lip but then really freaked cause he kept bleeding and I couldn't find where from. Anyway I lifted up his top lid and his gums were a gray color and bleeding. He tore the frenulum and knocked three teeth loose and chipped two. Here is the damage...

Got love that LIP, I felt bad cause I kept scrubbing his chin to get the blood off but it was a scrape...sorry Buddy!!

Where the teeth went through...these were gaping holes and I am so excited with how much they have closed already.

The top gum, you can see the discoloration. His front two teeth and the one on the left of them is loose but the Dentist said he won't loose them and they will get firm again in TWO weeks! TWO freakin' weeks!!! Dr says soft foods for TWO weeks! Good thing he likes pancakes :0)

Yeah so there is a dentist in our friend's ward so we ran Lukas across the street and because the teeth were loose he wanted to do an xray and make sure nothing was fractured. So we went to his office- insanely nice man bytheway- Dr Curtis Godfrey- totally recommended- anyway Lukas has never been to the dentist so with some fighting we got xrays and everything is ok. His permanent teeth were not damaged so we were relieved. Like I said 99% Bowen. We sure know how to have fun in this family!!!

Not to leave MaKynzee out she has been wearing her tiara since Halloween. One night she even wore it to bed. So I took a picture of our very own Sleeping Beauty. She is growing way to fast!!!

Dag Gum Freakin BUGS!!!!

2009-11-09T15:39:00.000-08:00

Ok so I really wanted to title this "How to Lose 14 POUNDS in One Week" but I didn't want search engines to grab my pitty story for those who would like to lose weight healthy.

Anyway How to Lose 14 FREAKIN POUNDS in 7 days!!

Step 1- Get a MANDATORY Piggy Flu shot
***one week prior to symptoms
Special note: Have your family all get sick in this week but YOU and feel pretty good about yourself!!

Step 2- Get the FREAKIN Piggy flu! (One week later gotta love that!!!!!!)

Step 3- Get Bronchitis secondary to flu
***This is day 3 now of symptoms

Step 4- Gag up every single bit of moisture for 3 days

Step 5- Swell tonsils to the point where they are over lapping and your throat is no longer able to do vital things like...BREATHE!!!! Swallow or eat.
*** Now to make sure you are on track your garbage should now be half full of your mouth and nose "moisture"

Step 6- Due to the fact that you can not vomit due to tonsils and resulting you have to swallow your vomit, your stomach now gets even ANGRIER and sends fire down your man hole!

Step 7- Make sure that you do not sleep for the the last three days and wake up in sweats (I saw so many wrestlers sweat their weight off in high school- Guess what it WORKS!!)

Step 8- The night of Day 6 to 7 completely rid your body of piggy flu virus through....SWEATING!
***You know the outlines of the bodies for crime scenes....Well imagine you wake up and you are soaked (I thought I might have peed the bed or dumped my ever full cup of water on the bed) and there is a completely FILLED IN outline of your body and you are convulsing due to chills and no body heat. Yepo that is at least 3 pounds right there.

Now this does not help your weight loss goals but you go crying like a baby into the Dr on day 7, say you've given up either they rip out your tonsils or you will and I do know where to find a scalpel! The nurses take one look at you and stay where they are. You can't even get the Dr closer than FOUR feet to you. You continue to cry as they give you a shot in each butt cheek (now one of these shots is the hell, fire and damnation shot (rocephin-one word BURN) that nurses HATE to give and HATE even more to receive) and 8 hours later you are breathing and swallowing. Still haven't eaten but hey at this point I am believing that is optional.

Mom the funny thing is - All I want is a frosty and fries!! So much for weight loss- LOL!

Sorry for the graphic details to my weight loss but I do want to report that I am getting better. Yes I had the swine flu, bronchitis and strep throat at the same time and probably all because of each other. The Swine flu test takes one week to come back but they are pretty sure. For those of you who have called I no longer sound like a man so I will begin to take calls. And for the rest of you who love me and care thank you for all your well wishes. Thanks especially to Brad Poulton who would come within one foot of me to help Spencer give me a blessing!

MaKynzee who started all of this is doing good, poor girl was sick for over a week but pretty spunky with a fever except maybe 2 days.

Spencer who was the second victim is doing very well also. He has his 3 month cough for the rest of the cold season but is handling it well with a pocket full of cough drops.

Lukas was barely touched, he had a cough but never fevered.

Me well you know my story!

Hope all is well and we love you all.

******This is NOT FDA approved method for weight loss!!!!********

Halloween Bagshaw Style 2009

2009-11-03T15:51:00.001-08:00

So I have not stopped one of my FAVORITE traditions...making the kids costumes. This year was the funnest and hardest! MaKynzee's fabric choice and I were not getting along so don't look to close. But I had a BLAST making Lukas- Lightning McQueen! I told MaKynzee no more princesses, this year she was Belle- Beauty and the Beast. She was so dang cute. I got my favorite red heads, my nieces Brookelyn and Kira on Thursday so we got to enjoy the festivities with them until Brookelyn spiked a fever and I took her home, with Kira soon to follow. Dang the winter!!!
Anyway we celebrated on Friday by going to the Ward Carnival and then ran down to Soda Springs for Dad Bagshaw's birthday (that is becoming a tradition too it seems). We had a blast and I was SAVED by a best friend Kendra who willing came to the ward party with me for support. Thanks girlie!!

Lukas celebrated Halloween week it seems with Preschool celebrations on Wednesday! His teacher is so awesome, she was a genie.

The complete and finished costumes.... DUN DUN DUN....

Presenting...Lightning McQueen!!

I made a car racer outfit and then made Lightning out of a card board box.

Me showing off my McQueen, I was SO happy with the way it turned out I have to brag a little!

My Princess Belle

The sewing machine ate her neckline but other than that I think it is ok. MaKynzee loved it and wouldn't take it off.

The Gang before Ward Carnival- It was fun getting all four ready by myself. I think they turned out C-U-T-E!

The kiddos Trunk or Treating in Soda. It wasn't that cold it was nice.

So now we are all sick...yep thank you very much. Spencer has bounced back with his cough that will last 3 months, Lukas blows green every time he sneezes, MaKynzee can't seem to keep her temp down, she is the worst and poor little thing looks like a ghost. I thought I had escaped but now I am beginning to feel pain in my chest and have a tickle in my throat! Heaven help us all!! We love everyone's costumes!!!

Halloween Pumpkin Fun

2009-10-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

So this Monday we had FHE and carved pumpkins. It was really fun and after MaKynzee got over the gooey feeling she really had fun. Anyway last year I think we did boys and girls pumpkins so this year we did Father-Daughter and Mother-son pumpkins. Lukas didn't let me be that creative but he knew exactly what he wanted.

Me and the kids "gutting" the pumpkins, according to Spencer I have killer guttin' skills.

Daddy carving the pumpkin.

So for those of you who don't know...MaKynzee is our little garbage disposal. She eats anything and now we get to add PUMPKIN to the list!!!

She kept picking up hunks and eating em...GROSS!!!! Then Spencer decided the whole family should try raw pumpkin and seeing that it was FHE... we did ALL of us...bon appetite!

The finished products and a HAPPY FAMILY~

Of course Spencer busted out his photo skills and we got some cool shots of the pumpkins!!

It looks like there is a spider in the right pumpkin's right eye but really it is because I carved the infamous "B" in the back of it, as tradition!!

Yellowstone and More

2009-10-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

Good OLD FAITHFUL

So we headed up to Yellowstone. Spencer wanted another chance at his photography adventures. So we headed up at 0800 in the morning to a chilly West Yellowstone. The kiddos love to see the animals and there favorite are the "volcanoes" ie geysers! So Old Faithful was a HIT and so was the grizzly bear we got to see about 15 feet away. Yep we had a death wish and Spencer couldn't stop smiling. Just before we turned the corner for the grizzly I said a little pray asking that we could please see a bear so that Spencer could be happy and this trip wouldn't be a waste. Seriously just as I said Amen we ran into the traffic for the bear. I was a happy girl, said my thankful prayer and Sir became the happiest man alive. So all in all it was GREAT trip, very photo successful!

This looks like something out of a horror film. It was so cold so the geysers were creating all this fog. Hold on honey...I'll come get you!

The kids were correcting each other about facts from this board. They can't read but Lukas was saying it was a million years old and MaKynzee said no it is a baby. They make me laugh. Very interested with the sign no less.

Not much else to report but we LOVE to dance around here! Just makin' sure Mom and Dad Bowen know that I am makin' sure their grandbabies know how to dance. MaKynzee's favorite right now is to stand on her stool and shout "Shake your booty!" LOL!!

It's a.....GIRL!!

2009-09-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

Well okay so I was a little deceptive in my choice of words for the title but it is a GIRL...hamster. I finally convinced Spencer that I needed an animal for my "therapy" and we finally got one. Her name is Daisy and she is a teddy bear hamster. I love her and so do the kids..to death. They just might kill her with all the shaking and dropping her when she is in her running ball but I think that we have come a few steps closer to having that resolved...yeah RIGHT! She is just SO much fun. Thanks again babe!

This is our cute little DAISY!

MaKynzee wanted to introduce hippo to Daisy...this is what we found it was sooo cute!

MaKynzee always make sure that Hippo does everything she does! LOL.

The other day we went and took some pictures at the park. I got this one after the three of them climbed up this rock face. I am so blessed with our little family.

Too cute huh! They are the most beautiful and cherished possessions I have!

Bagshaws in the Sawtooths

2009-09-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

Labor Day we went to the Sawtooths for a Bagshaw Reunion of sorts. It was great we got to see all the siblings and Grandpa and Grandma Bagshaw came too. Of course we were camping and the kids LOVED it!! It was fun for us adults too but poor Mom seemed like she needed a humidifier in the morning...quite the trooper! So we did some sight seeing and one place was the Fish hatchery... definitely one of the kiddos favorite (I don't know if the boat ride or the fishies win out) and well everybody seemed to enjoy watching the kids fish. The last day, labor Day we went and rented a boat. It was really fun and I realized just how much I miss the water. We love the outdoors and were super sad to say good bye to summer. Here are some trip pictures....I will post some of the boat later. They are all on Spencer's camera.

Smores with Grandma!

One of my favorites! The cousins at the Fish Hatchery.

At the Fish Hatchery they have a pond where kids could fish. MaKynzee fishing with mommy.

Don't know why my face looks like I am in pain...I was actually enjoying myself, maybe it is "concentration."

LOOK! MaKynzee and Papa caught a FISH...

And Lukas not to be out done caught a... MOMMY

Yep, Lukas caught me right in the... well let's just say I was BEGGING Lukas to stop and I am raising my hand to make sure no one else was going to come over to "help" I was mortified but got the hook out from between my legs and personally I think Lukas caught the best lookin' thing all day...LOL!

Lukas trying to catch something beside his mom with Papa.

MaKynzee is not really afraid of much, hesitant YES but not scared away too easily. See she even decided to make friends with her fish! Lukas would have ran the other way but our little girl can find the "rough and tough" in herself.

The trip was SOOO much fun and we were so happy to see everyone! We love you all thanks for such a great time!

The Next Bagshaw Scholar

2009-09-02T16:05:00.000-07:00

Well Lukas started preschool at Pumpkin Patch Preschool. The teacher runs the preschool out of her basement and I heard about it through work. Everyone RAVES about this lady so we got in. I was super excited for him because I want him to be able to use all that independent attitude for something good and HE DOES!! He has had three days and already draws A's and sings the alphabet a MILLION times better than before. We are so impressed with our little student. MaKynzee on the other hand is struggling without big brother being around. She cries for her Lukas and wants to go get a Princess backpack cause that means she gets to go to school. (oh how little minds think.) Anyway I think we will get over it soon but so far she is 100% screaming the whole way home....maybe I need ear plugs.

Our handsome scholar!!

Heading out into the BIG BIG world! When we got to preschool he said "Mom- GO! This is where you leave" and pushed me. Yep not afraid of being without me..not one tiny bit!

Her super super upset..."Turn around go get MY LUKAS!!!!"

Tears at the heart strings a little. Now you might be asking why I have this picture. Well I was sick of the screaming so I told her to stop or I would pull over and take a picture...she didn't and so wa-la!

WAHOO...He's really in the MTC!!

2009-08-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

So not last weekend but the one before we were in SLC for a cousins wedding on Saturday and then we put the BABY of the family in the MTC!! My little brother, Elder Bowen...CRAZY! I was so excited for him...yeah I cried like a baby but it is just because I am so dang proud of him! I will miss him but two years is an easy sacrifice for the awesome man he will become. We love you...GOD SPEED. Don't forget your on the Lord's side now.

The day before he went into the MTC we went and got a few pictures at the "sign."

Uncle Garrett the day before he went into the MTC!

Man we are good lookin' siblings! Now I have 2 strippling warrior missionaries!

Don't forget to check out my DC trip on the blog below...if you care.

Brandee's Washington DC Relaxation

2009-08-19T18:32:00.001-07:00

So I was able to go to Wash. DC for my BEST friends wedding. I went all by myself and had a outrageously fabulous time. Much deserved I believe. So the agenda went something like this....

Tuesday- Arrive

Wednesday- Naughty Bridal Shower

Thursday- Endowments

Friday- R&R, PAMPER ME!!

Saturday- Wedding Bells

Sunday- DC, The Mall (by myself...it was FABULOUS)

Monday- Homeward bound

The bride to be with her crown...this night was full of naughties!! She got some very "nice" things. It was a great party and lots of fun.

Kay (Celeste step mom) made the cake...oh did we have fun. Hope you are having fun with those new "toys" my dear!!

Temple Night... we had a very nice time at the temple and spent at least an hour in the Celestial room after, it was just so nice to be in there and have the spirit poor over me. So very good.

PAMPER US FRIDAY!!! Well I got my first massage ever and well...LOVED IT! It was good but getting naked, well lets just say I was happy to see a woman come to get me... unlike Celeste her massage therapist was a guy. I know I would have FREAKED! Thanks again Celeste for taking the hit for me.

Then on to pedicures...which I loved and manicures which I could live without. We sure did get to relax, well maybe I did and I at least got one picture with Celeste relaxing and not on the phone with last minute wedding plans. Good girl, smile and RELAX your getting married TOMORROW!!

DING DONG...Wedding Bliss

Celeste was the most beautiful bride, I couldn't help but cry. She was gorgeous and all her dreams were coming true. It was one of those moments we had talked about since middle school and then there she was like a princess...no goddess!

Me and the Bride

Me and the Groom

The Happy Couple

The reception was truly a party. It was fantastic with DJ and all. I got to have my dance with the bride. We danced to Any Man of MINE...truly a favorite of ours from the younger years. We kicked up our heels and did our line dance. It made the evening for me...THANKS CELESTE for taking the time.

Touring DC..SOLO! What a blast I never thought you could have so much fun by yourself but I guess having lunner with the President had to perk things up. Ok so what happened was I walked to the White House to get a few picks and say I was on the lawn. Well when I got there maybe 20 people were there and then out comes the president onto the balcony for dinner. The crowd went from 20 to 100+ and police arrived on foot and horseback and the snipers on the top of the White House more than doubled. It was CRAZY, pretty intense and all.

You can't see but the dot in the middle column just above my head is the President himself. I am surprised that you can't see the snipers as well but there were 5 up there. It was totally cool.

Well I won't bore you with anymore pictures I have millions maybe I will do another blog with some more. We are all enjoying being home and LOVE not having to run around. Thanks for every thing Celeste...I had a fabulous time. Miss you already!

Spencer's Birthday and Playing with Paints

2009-07-27T09:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Spencer!

It was a rough day, we came in from Texas at about 4pm and poor Spencer spent the day driving from Pocatello to Salt Lake and Salt Lake to Pocatello. Some birthday eh? But he was in good spirits because we went to REI and got a new backpacking pack for him and the grin never stopped after that. After getting his goody we went out to dinner with his Grandma Rae and family. It was very nice but we were all tired. Grandma told the waitress about our birthday boys so they got ice cream with a candle...oooooooo.

Later the next week I made his favorite...BROWNIES! And I decorated them like a cake...he was SUPER happy with my design.

That is a computer if you can't tell.

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Getting sung to by his babies...he was a happy birthday dad.

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Lukas decided he wanted to play with his new present from the Hemmings. It is a paint kit and he LOVED it (no worries Alicia)!

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MaKynzee...doesn't she look happy? She wanted to do it by herself and I was just trying to show her how but well she did how ever she wanted and was happy as long as mom left her alone.

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He was SO happy, we tried every brush and stamp in the pack. He really didn't want to put it away, but babies need their sleep no matter how old they get.

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The finished masterpieces!

Lukas "Queen Cars" Birthday

2009-07-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

SO sorry this is so late but it has been SO busy since we got home. Lukas celebrated his birthday in Texas, it was so much fun to have a birthday party with all of his cousins. Then the next day we came home on Spencer's birthday but I will blog about that later. SO a fabulously fun birthday for my McQueen Cars obsessed boy....

All Lukas asked for was a McQueen Cars "banana", he means pinata but banana is what comes out. He was SO excited.

A party fit for our McQueen KING!

We played lots of games. one bean ball toss, bounce the bouncy ball into the cup and RACE! I wanted to let the kids decorate some cars and then race them. You know Lightning McQueen style so thanks to my sister and mom we made it work. We got the die cast cars and put stickers on them.

Aunt Melanie helping Ivy and Alex with their cars and Lukas checking out what sticker he wanted next.

Aunt Christina with Brookelyn and Kira, the cars are about ready to race!!!

The finished line up!!

We did one big race and KIRA WON!!! We did lots of one on ones too but this was the ultimate race!!

Then we did cake 'cause it was getting way too HOT!!

Lukas was really cute blowing out his candles! It took him a while but I was so happy that we could have this party and cake and everything for the little guy!

Then the BANANA...

Such a good swing!

Sorry but this was TOO cute to leave out....

She kills me! She is SO dang cute...even blindfolded...kinda.

Uncle Garrett had to finish off the pinata for us! Good work Bro!

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Then the POOL PARTY part. Lukas did ask for two things a "banana" and to go swimming. Thanks for letting us use the pool Aunt Kathy. We all had such a good time!!

And not to forget my little princess, she had fun too! Maybe her birthday next year can be just as special but I don't know if it will be in Texas!

Happy Birthday Buddy! We love you BIG!!!

More to come...presents and Spencer's b-day celebrations...it only took me a week to get done all the stuff I wanted to for their birthdays!!

San Antonio Zoo and Girls Night Out

2009-07-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

We went to the zoo and had a really fun time. The kids loved seeing the animals and their favorite was the elephant. We were all melting in the Texan sun but it was worth it. We traveled through and saw the animals and then we went on a 20 min train ride. Lukas was happier than a "tornado in a trailer park."

The Jorgensen and Bagshaw children with the Lion family.

The whole gang at the elephant.

My favorite animal is the hippo. All we got to see were the butts. Lukas and MaKynzee lookin' at the hippos.

Grandma showing Lukas the leopard.

Riding the train...

So my mom always called us her Neapolitan girls. My sisters Christina (has red hair) and Melanie (has brunette) and I am blonde... so mom has a vanilla, chocolate and strawberry girls. Well all our children have our hair colors so my mom calls them her Neapolitan grandchildren. So it was too cute to see the three youngest together like this...

Really cute, huh! Grandma's Neapolitan babies!

So after the zoo we dropped off the kids and we (the girls) went to Austin to drop my Grandma and Grandpa Bowen off at the airport and to have a GIRLS NIGHT OUT!! We started at Glamour Shots....

Mom gettin' all bea-u-tified!!

Christina gettin' her make up. GORGEOUS!

Melanie was able to put her book down just long enough for hair and make up. You can't see the book in her lap. She is such a pretty girl! Ooo, lala.

Me the beauty bandit...

Now my sister Christina has NO IDEA how beautiful she is, I want to SCREAM to the world and let her know that she is GORGEOUS! She is such a great sis, you are beautiful inside and OUT! Look how amazing she looks!

Well after we got dolled up and "shot." We went to Coldstone and got ice cream and then went to a chick-flick The Proposal. It was totally funny! We really enjoyed it and I was laughing so hard I was crying. It was GREAT! Thanks for the evening ladies!!

INCREDIBLE DAYS

2009-07-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

My favorite picture so far here in Texas!!!

So we have been having some serious fun here in Texas. I couldn't get all my pictures that I wanted off the camera so I will post some more swimming pictures later. But Friday we went to Incredible Pizza and had an incredible time. The kids loved it and we sure enjoyed the go karts. It was nice to just let everybody play and be with the family. It was a blast!

Lukas was tall enough that we got to race together in the Go Karts. There was a slow "Busch" race, for the kids and a fast "Nascar" race for the "big" kids... adults. Lukas loved every second and we got last place. Lukas said, "Mommy we lost, we aren't winners." He new we were behind everyone and I said, "No we won, we lapped everybody!" LOL. He was SO happy with my little exaggeration...ok so I lied but the boy was happy.

Then we did "Nascar" speed and this is me passing the leader! I actually got yelled at for not having both hands on the steering wheel :0)

This is me gloating, yeah I never win in this competitive family of mine so I had to savor every second. I am sure if you ask they will say they let me win but my dad was bumpin' me the entire time from behind. Ahhhh....victory!

The fabulous Bowen shoot out. Of course they were all super good and only a few baskets between each other.

My dad has some SERIOUS skills I mean look at this....

Dad could only pull this off with his super shooting powers.

Then the two boys played on the smaller shoot out.

And like Papa...like grandson....

Lukas got his ball stuck too. It was too funny.

Someone saw the girls trying to dance with Dance Dance Revolution, so they put money in so they could really play...the girls loved it and they caught quite the crowd.

We had such a FABULOUS, INCREDIBLE time...Thanks mom and dad!