The Abbott Family

Fish

2012-02-02T18:46:00.000-07:00

We have two new members of the family. Their names are Ironman and Spiderman. The boys love them so much!

Christmas

2012-01-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

We had a crazy Christmas! Ethan working a lot, parties, Christmas shopping, my family had Christmas at my house, and then Zachary's surgery ( you can read about it here). Here are a few pictures from the month.

Christmas Card

2011-12-21T11:06:00.002-07:00

Truly Thankful

2011-11-25T12:47:00.002-07:00

This year I tried to teach the boys about being thankful and giving. We made a thankful tree and everyday we put a new thing we were thankful for on it. We also did a food drive. The boys loved getting food from people and giving it to the bishop to give out. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I'm so happy for everything in my life! The good and the bad. It all has contributed to what joy I have today!

This is Halloween!

2011-11-03T12:33:00.000-06:00

Our Halloween was a blast! Having kids makes it so much fun! The only down side is my kids are going to be on a sugar high for the next two months!

Tyson is growing up!

2011-09-17T12:47:00.000-06:00

Tyson is a big boy now! It seams like overnight the baby was gone and the big boy arrived.

He is potty trained.(still has a few accidents)
He's in a big bed.
He is finally starting to talk!
He wants to do everything Zac does.
He wants to pick his own clothing : )
He is very tall for his age. He's the 90% for height and he wears a size 9 shoe.
He LOVES trains and dinosaurs (like most boys his age).

Tyson is the apple of my eye. He's very independent yet he always wants me around. He has the best smile. I love him so much!

You don't want to miss this!

2011-09-02T20:45:00.001-06:00

I am having a giveaway on my fashion blog. Go HERE to enter!

Im a big boy now!

2011-09-02T20:39:00.000-06:00

Here are a few picture of Zac's first day of school! He is getting so big! I'm excited for what this school year will bring.

Cowabunga Bay!

2011-08-10T14:39:00.000-06:00

Zac has been working very hard to keep his fingers out of his nose and mouth:) His reward was going to the big water slide place ( Cowabunga Bay). He has been working to go there for almost 3 months! Last Saturday was the big day. Zac and I got to go on a date and swim for hours. I had the best time and Zac loved the water camera. It moments like these that I will remember always!

Cascade Springs

2011-08-07T22:56:00.001-06:00

We took a drive today up the Alpine loop and down to Cascade Springs. It was a beautiful day and a perfect getaway. My boys loved it! What a great Sunday!

Update

2011-07-18T08:25:00.000-06:00

I added a subscribe button on my fashion blog stylewithshannon.com. This button will make it work on Google reader!

P.S. I couldn't do a blog post without a cute picture of my kids : )

What I've been up to

2011-07-15T07:26:00.001-06:00

For the last two months I have been working on putting a fashion blog together. I'm so excited to share it with everyone! If you like it please put buttons on your blogs and like it on facebook. I want to thank everyone that helped me with it. This blog would NOT have happened without you. I hope you like it!

stylewithshannon.com

2011-06-26T20:45:00.001-06:00

Dear Zac,
You went to bed early tonight for getting into trouble. You acted up at church, bit a little boy, hit your brother with a piano and then when you were in time out you pinched your brother. After the day is done, all I can think about is how I can be a better mother to you. I think threw what I can do differently so you wouldn't feel the need to do those things. Maybe you need more mom time, maybe I'm not being consistent with discipline, or maybe you are just a active little boy that gets bored way to easy.
Then my thoughts change to yesterday when we had so much fun! We got your first chapter book, "Caption Underpants". After that we went to see Cars 2 with your best friend. Then we finished the day with swimming at the Lindon pool. It was such a fun day and you were such a good boy!
Zac I love your zest for life. You give me so many wonderful experiences as a mother it is only fair that we have a few hard experiences also. My only hope is I teach you the best I can and you always be kind and loving towards people. You are such a amazing light in this world! I love you all the way to the moon and back!
Love, Mom

Very happy unbirthday to you!

2011-05-17T10:08:00.002-06:00

My parents are in town but wont be here for Tyson birthday so we celebrated early! We had cupcakes, presents and then we went to the farm. Tyson loved all the attention and his presents! Happy Unbirthday Big Guy!

Itty Bitty ball

2011-05-17T10:02:00.000-06:00

Zac is doing a Itty Bitty ball class for two weeks. Basically, it's T-ball for 3 and 4 year olds. Zac loves it and is doing better at hitting the ball then I expected!

Easter

2011-05-05T09:05:00.003-06:00

I've postponed putting easter pictures up because we are having family pictures and we're wearing the same outfits. But Ethan's cousin put a few on her blog that are just to cute not to share.

On a different note, I was watching a very sappy movie last night and in the movie they said something that I LOVED. " I'm not going to miss out on something great just because it might be hard." I love that! I want to live my life without regrets. I don't want to miss out on something just because I might be a little scared. When I'm old I want to look at my life and know I made the best of everything I was given.

Who's wearing diapers?

2011-04-10T17:33:00.001-06:00

Not my kids!!!

Tyson is officially potty trained!

Swim lessons

2011-03-30T14:36:00.001-06:00

Zac has started swim lessons and he loves them!!!! I'm happy that he learning how to swim so he will be safe around water. Swimming has alway been my thing so it's cool to see my son do it. Part of me hopes he loves it so much that he will want to do it full time. We will see ; ) For now it's a great activity to get his energy out.

Grandma and Grandpa Kingsley

2011-03-24T16:35:00.000-06:00

One of the best things about our trip was the time the boys got to spend with their grandparents. For Zac it was all about Grandma Kingsley. He wanted to sit by her every time we ate and go on every ride with her. Tyson is more shy but took a liking to Grandpa. I'm so glad they got to spend alot of time together! Zac keeps asking to go back!

Family Trip

2011-03-24T14:41:00.041-06:00

The drive:

Unlike our last road trip this one was fun. Zac was so happy that we were going to Grandma Kingsley's house. Tyson surprised both Ethan and I on how good he was. The best part of a road trip is all the snack food!

Disneyland:

There were so many people at Disneyland! I couldn't believe it! Somehow we still got on a lot of rides and the boy's did great the whole time! THERE WERE NO MELT DOWNS! The weather was 68 the first day we went and 73 the second. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Zac's favorite rides were Matterhorn Bobsleds and Soarin over California. Tyson liked Casey Jr. Circus Train. Zac got to wear a Birthday button and he loved all the attention he got from it. The last half of the second day I took Tyson to my parents house for a nap and I went back to disneyland. I spent the rest of the day with just Ethan, Zac, and me. We had such a great time we are already planning our next trip.

Zac's Birthday:
We had spent the last two days at Disneyland so we decided to keep Zac's birthday low-key. It was such nice weather!!!! We spent most of the day outside. We went to the park in the morning, then we played in my parents back yard. Tyson loved the dirt and Zac loved finding bugs. Later we went to a movie and dinner at our favorite mexican food restaurant where they sang to Zac. My mom had an amazing cake made at a local bakery. Zac was so happy to see his name on it!

Beach:

The last day that we were in California we went to the beach. Most of the time I've taken the boy to the beach it was to cold to go in the water so I never bring their swim stuff. This time it was warm but I didn't think ahead and didn't have a change of clothes. Both boys wanted to run into the water and we had a hard time keeping them dry. Zac was trying to find shells with Ethan when a wave hit him hard and he fell in! : ) We had dinner reservations at a restaurant and had no clothes for Zac. Luckily there was a big sale at a local surf shop so we bought some clothes for Zac. I love the beach and it was sad that we had to go home the next day.

The note.

2011-03-21T23:51:00.002-06:00

We haven't been on ANY kind of a vacation in a year and a half, not even a small one. Last time we went on a vacation was to California when Tyson was 2 months old and the drive was HORRIBLE! When we finally made it home Ethan and I promised each other that we are not going anywhere for a long time. About 9 months later I was ready for another vacation but knew it wasn't going to happen. I wanted to go back to Disneyland but wanted to wait till Zac was tall enough to go on most of the rides. So we set a goal for Zac's 4th Birthday. It was great to have this goal because I told Zac if he eats his fruits and Vegetables he would get tall enough to see Mickey. It worked! On Zac's 4 year doctors visit he was exactly 40 inches tall. I made a note from Mickey and asked the doctor to give it to Zac. Zac was so happy! He didn't let the note leave his side and he showed everyone that would look his way. He wanted to take it to Mickey and thank him for it, so he did. It had to be the highlight of his trip and his birthday!

2011-03-17T15:46:00.001-06:00

This picture explains Tyson's personality perfectly!

A long awaited day!

2011-03-08T20:37:00.002-07:00

I got the amazing opportunity to see my brother and his wife adopt these beautiful children. The oldest girl is their biological child and the younger two are the kids they just adopted. They started this long journey over two years ago when they welcomed Tennyson into their home. Then about 9 months ago his half sister Cosette joined them also. I'm so happy for them and I excited to be the proud aunt to these kids.

Kinect

2011-03-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

Ethan got a great deal on a Kinect from work, so we got one! The best part about it is the pictures it takes of you as you do it! So funny!

I cropped the last picture so you can see Zac's face better. His look is priceless!

What we've been up too.

2011-03-06T14:23:00.002-07:00

Jungle Jims:

This place was a little dirty. We had a coupon and got on the rides for cheap. The kids had so much fun and it was a great place to kill a Saturday in the middle of winter.

Sleeping:

Tyson has been sick alot the past two months. Nothing major but he sure needs his sleep when he's sick. I love this picture because of how he cuddling his snake stuffed animal.

Kangaroo Zoo:

I took the kids to "the jumping place". Zac loves it there and I think he had even more fun that Chloe got to come along.

Aquarium:

We went with all of Zac's cousins. It was a very crowded that day but I think they still had fun.

Zac

2011-01-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

He loves his.....

preschool

spider-man costume

Dad

camera

brother

Mom

friends

yellow blanket

yellow boots

goldfish

legos.

Bus

2011-01-10T08:02:00.001-07:00

I fell off the bus this weekend. But it is time to get back on. I had my workout. I'm writing in my "journal". I had my veggies for breakfast. I'm ready for the day. I realized two things this weekend; 1) I can't stay away from sugar. I have cut back but I can't kick it. 2) I will being staying gluten free for the rest of my life. I didn't eat wheat for almost two weeks and felt GREAT! I haven't felt that good in years. This weekend I had wheat and now I'm back to my stomach hurting.
I also have some good news. I have some other ideas for journaling so I don't have to blog everyday.

Sorry People

2011-01-07T20:42:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry to the three people that read my blog that I've been writing everyday. I'm doing it because I'm doing a 8 week challenge to better myself. You have ten tasks that you need to complete everyday and you get a point for each one. One of the tasks is to write in your journal. Well, this is the closest thing I have to one. So far in the challenge I have only gotten ten points once. Most of the time I get about eight. IT IS HARD! If you want to go see what it's all about go here:
http://8weekstoabetteryou.blogspot.com/

Death of a plant.

2011-01-06T19:40:00.002-07:00

I'm not very good at keeping indoor plants alive. I had this one that has lasted for 2 1/2 years. That is the longest I have ever kept any plant alive indoor or out. I loved this thing, it was beautiful. This morning after talking to a friend, this is what I walked into. RIP plant.

Heres to 2011.....

2011-01-05T14:13:00.003-07:00

Well my 2011 hasn't started off great. I'm sitting here with a hurt foot from play the Wii. Yes I'm of those people that get hurt playing video games. There is a list if things that are very stressful going on but I'm not going complain because that is not the reason for this post. Zac is taking care of me as I write this. He got me a drink and is now doing the dishes. With all the bad luck I have been having, I sure feel like the luckiest mom in the world!

Can't wait.

2011-01-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

I'm such a kid. I'm counting down the days till we take the boys to Disneyland. (It's still two months away) I cant wait to see the look on the boys faces. I can't wait to go on the rides ; ) I can't wait to be on a vacation with Ethan. I can't wait . I keep reminding myself to be more realistic and remember the boy are still young. They are going to have meltdowns, the drive is going to suck and at the end I will be more tired then when we left. Even with all that I CAN"T WAIT.

I love this boy!

2011-01-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

Tyson is almost 19 months old and full of personalty! He doesn't talk but somehow he lets you know what he wants. He's not very social BUT if he gives you his attention he will melt your heart. He loves trucks, dragons, and movies. He is still off of wheat and milk but amazingly he is in the 50% in weight and 75% for height. I'm so in love with him!

How could you not love this cute little guy?

Christmas 2010

2010-12-29T22:05:00.001-07:00

I can't believe 2010 is over! I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. Here are a few other picture of the month: Ethan's work Christmas party, the cookie train Zac and I made, playing in the snow and the Children's museum in Salt Lake.

We did things a little different this year and stayed home for our own Christmas eve. We talked about the birth of Christ and opened a few presents. The boys LOVED Christmas morning so much! In fact Zac keeps asking me to put the tree back up so we can do it again.

My Christmas List

2010-12-02T17:16:00.003-07:00

What I want:

1. Maid.

2. No sick kids!

3. More money in savings.

What I would want if I was a kid:

1. Harry Potter Lego castle.

2. Epic Mickey Wii game.

3. Trip to Harry Potter Land.

What I want in my dreams:

1. 2011 Toyota Sequoia.

2. House with a large yard.

3. Trip to Europe.

Our Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-27T20:05:00.003-07:00

We had two Thanksgiving's this year. The first one was at the Abbott's house at 1:00 p.m.. Zac got to see his cousin Lincoln, that he hasn't seen in along time. It's so fun watching them play because they are the same age. (only two weeks apart). The next Thanksgiving meal was at 6:00 p.m. at my parents house in Utah.We watch Toy Story 3 and ate more food.

The next day I got together with my Sister and Mom to do some shopping and have lunch at La Jolla Groves. It was a great day.

I'm thankful for so much in my life! I hope, I will always remember how lucky I am for all that I have. I count my many blessings everyday.

This is what I'm thankful for.

2010-11-15T16:38:00.000-07:00

Our first date

2010-11-10T13:35:00.000-07:00

It's important to me to have a good relationship with my kids. One of the things I struggle with is the one on one time with them. I haven't had much with Tyson, and I've noticed that he has been needing more time with just me. So today Tyson and I went on our first date. Zac went to go play with what he calls his "Best friend" and I went to the Dinosaur museum with Tyson. When we first got there Tyson was so happy and he kept clapping his hands and saying "YEAH,YEAH,YEAH!" It was so much fun to do things at his pace and see what he liked the best. It made my day and I hope we can do it again soon.

My little trick or treaters

2010-11-07T15:41:00.001-07:00

I love Halloween! I don't know why, maybe it's because I love fall and it's that time of year. The biggest reason has to be the candy. This year Zac knew what he wanted to be 3 months before. It was Buzz. It was all he talked about so I gave in a got a Buzz costume. Then I was at Target and found the alien from Toy story and thought it would be prefect for Tyson. To bad Tyson wouldn't keep it on. Anyways our Halloween was wonderful and Zac got a ton of candy. Zac had so much fun that he keeps asking when he can do it again.

There is always a dance party at my house.

2010-09-29T07:49:00.000-06:00

Photo shoot

2010-09-19T21:48:00.001-06:00

Today we went up to Provo Canyon to see the fall colors and take a few pictures of the fam. All we had was a half broken point and shoot camera and the photographers were Ethan, I, Zac, and random guy. Well here are the results. Next time I will pay someone to do it.

Ethan shooting

Shannon shooting

Zac shooting

Random guy shooting

Zac's first day of school!

2010-09-07T13:37:00.005-06:00

A day with my boys.

2010-09-04T22:16:00.001-06:00

I had a great Saturday with my boys. We went up to Salt Lake to Tracy Aviary. Zac loved it and Tyson loved chasing after the ducks. After that we went to Gateway to play in the water. My boys are growing up to fast!

Dino Park

2010-08-14T21:10:00.005-06:00

We went to the Ogden Dinosaur park last Saturday with my brother and his family. It was a ton of fun. My boys have been so cute lately. Nothing is better then a Saturday with my family.

Nerd in training.

2010-07-31T22:48:00.003-06:00

The 4th

2010-07-08T16:22:00.003-06:00

We decided to go to the mountains for the 4th. We headed up to Provo falls and Mirror Lake. We had lunch and did a small hike. It was nice to get away from it all.

This time last year....

2010-06-30T19:12:00.005-06:00

.....I was trying to get the hang of two kids. I was still recovering from having a baby. I missed the family reunion in Jackson. I was going crazy with a very active 2 year old. I felt fat. I was wishing I could go outside more. I got to give lots of hugs and kisses to the cutest baby in the world!!!

Now..... I am outside all day everyday. I go to Zumba once a week with some friends. Go swimming at least twice a week. Having fun watching my baby walking, then fall on his bum with a big smile on his face. My 3 year old is the best boy ever. I'm tan. I'm happy. Life is Good!

So far this summer.........

Seven Peaks

Salt lake

Lindon Pool

Thanksgiving point

Zoo with Dad

Highland Splash Park

FUN.

Look who's walking!

2010-06-25T12:38:00.004-06:00

Tyson took his first steps at 11 months. Now he's at the point that he rather walk then crawl. I love this age!

1 year

2010-06-21T11:57:00.004-06:00

Zac

Tyson

Tyson's First Birthday

2010-06-12T21:58:00.003-06:00

It's been a whole year and every new day I spend with Tyson, I love him more than the last. I'm so lucky he's part of our family. I cant wait to see what the next year brings. As the chorus to a song that GLEE covered sings:

'Cause we belong together now, yeah

Forever united here somehow, yeah

You got a piece of me

And honestly,

My life (my life) would suck (would suck) without you

The words to chorus of this song will forever remind me of Tyson. My life WOULD SUCK without him! LOVE YOU!

Pictures of the Fam

2010-05-27T21:13:00.005-06:00

We have a few new family photos taken by Ethan's twin sister. She did amazing! Go see what else she has done at http://chemennphotography.wordpress.com/.

The Abbott Grandkids

2010-05-27T14:16:00.002-06:00

I need a vacation

2010-05-24T08:01:00.005-06:00

To all my family and friends that live here:

I was just wondering if I could come visit you because this is what I woke up to:

Global Warming......Yeah. Right.

Family Blogger

2010-05-20T17:22:00.006-06:00

I realized the other day that there are two types of bloggers. The entertaining type and the family type. The entertaining bloggers are good writers and appeal to alot of people. They always have something funny or interesting to write about. The family bloggers have alot of pictures of there kids and vacations and things they're doing. Unless you are family or know the person, you really don't care to read their blog. There are a few people that have a ballance but most fall under these labels. I'm a family blogger, sorry people. So enjoy all 5 of my new posts and ALOT of pictures of my kids :)

Cousin time

2010-05-20T16:16:00.006-06:00

We went to the zoo with all of Zac's ( and Ty's) cousins and they had a blast! We weren't there for more then 5 minutes when he had to go in timeout for running off. After he chilled out ( just a bit) we had a great time. We saw so many animals and they were all very active. Tyson had the most fun on the train. Zac loved the snake and the carousel.

Big Boys

2010-05-20T16:13:00.004-06:00

Tyson and Zac both have new car-seats and they love it!

Tyson's diet

2010-05-20T15:46:00.007-06:00

Do you remember this post? Well I'm far from spending that at the store now. We have to take a trip and go to the health food stores in the neighborhood because.....Tyson has to stay away from the top five allergies.

Dairy
Wheat
Soy
Egg
Nuts

On top of that Tyson is a very picky eater. It's not to bad if I'm at home and can make a meal for him but the snack food is what I can't find. Finally, I gave in and went to Good Earth ($$$$$$). Zac loves that store because it has the little shopping carts. I love that store because the food and I can find stuff for Tyson.

I've found some cool stuff. It's crazy to me that food without all those ingredients can still taste good. I even found a cake mix so Tyson can have a cake for his birthday : ). All of this food cost around $70. But at the end of the day it is worth every penny to know he's healthy.

Zachary graduated from his first year of Preschool.

2010-05-20T15:40:00.005-06:00

Zachary had the pleasure of being part of a neighborhood preschool that was one day a week. It was perfect for his age and help with his social skills. He is signed up for a preschool that is in Harvest Hills for next year. My little boy is so grown up.

Hard work

2010-05-20T10:10:00.005-06:00

As most of you already know.....Ethan puts in long, hard hours at work (around 70-80 hours a week). I know I've complained and complained about him being overworked, he Never gets to see his kids, and I NEVER get a break. Now I want to tell you somethings that are positive about his job.

#1 He has a job! But not just any job, a job that has alot of opportunity for advancement.

#2 He works in Ogden now. It's a LONG drive for Ethan and it's been an adjustment but it's a promotion (kind of). The store in Ogden is the best and busiest in the state so if he does well there he is on his way to becoming a market manager.

#3 He loves his job!

#4 Cash America (that's Ethan company) is a Fortune 500 and is one of the few companies that is doing well, even growing!

#5 He has job security.

#6 We get amazing deals on everything!

#7 He has learned some amazing skills. He's gone to Texas twice for training. He knows just as much about jewelry as a jeweler would.

#8 Ethan does a great job at having the respect for his employes and customers. He has worked at three different stores now and he has customers that follow him wherever he goes.

We've been lucky that he's had job threw it all. It has put food on the table and a roof over our heads. I love you Ethan, thanks for all your HARD WORK!

2010-05-16T21:52:00.003-06:00

I need to blog. What has happened to the joy of blogging? Most of my friends don't blog much anymore.....is that why I stopped? I'm just writing this so I will put a timeline on a new post. I have one week.

Zachary is 3!

2010-03-16T20:38:00.006-06:00

We had a fulfilled weekend with birthday festivities. On friday night my parents surprised me by driving up from California last minute. Zac was so excited to see them! On Saturday we went to "Pirate Island" in Orem. This place was just right for Zac, he got his face painted, a balloon sword, played games, ate food and opened presents.

On Sunday we had a joined party with his cousin Keaton. Zac opened more presents and had fun eating the head off his T-Rex cake. It was a great weekend. I think Zac likes being 3.

My baby is crawling!

2010-02-25T18:00:00.004-07:00

Tyson started to crawl about a week ago. He's been army crawling for months but now he's official. He thinks he's tuff stuff. I think Zac likes it but he still doesn't like sharing his toys that Tyson can get to now. Here are some pictures with the video because my videos aren't working that well. Enjoy the cuteness.

To Mom and Dad

2010-02-13T10:32:00.006-07:00

Family Pictures

2010-02-02T22:21:00.011-07:00

Family Night

2010-01-25T15:36:00.003-07:00

We try to go out and do something fun as a family once a month. This month it was bowling. Zac had been having fun on the Wii with bowling so I was very excited to take him. When we got there he couldn't get the smile off his face. He scored higher then Ethan and I! I think he would have done it all night if we let him

Introducing Mr. & Mrs. Green

2010-01-21T20:52:00.005-07:00

I had such a wonderful, kid free weekend (thanks to my amazing hubby)! I was able to fly down to California for my best friend Rachel's wedding. Her new name is Rachel Green..... to funny. Anyway it was such an amazing wedding and Rachel was beautiful! It was going to be outside but it had to rain so it was moved inside. It was fun seeing people I haven't seen in almost 7 years. It was like one big reunion. I can't believe we are all growing up and getting married. I was very emotional about it all so I cried a good part of the night but it still was so much fun. I love you Rach!

I'm so bad at this.....

2009-12-28T21:51:00.014-07:00

I started a blog so I could document fun/important events in my family. I started off really good and slowly have gone down hill from there. Anyway this post is about the whole month of December. Like with most of my blog post there is going to be more pictures then writing.

The month started off with a trip on the Polar Express! Zac has been OBSESSED with that show for months so we decided to take him on the Heber Valley Railroad version of it. It was cute but Zac was a little young. He loved riding on the train and seeing Santa for the first time.

Zac also discovered that he loves the snow.

It was so much fun this year because Zac knew who Santa was and what he does. He kept telling me that he wanted Santa to bring him more train tracks for his train but he didn't understand that he had to wait for them. Zac likes Santa and when he saw him at our ward Christmas party he wouldn't leave his side.

Tyson has also had a big month. He started solid foods. He's rolling all over the place and can get Zac's toys. Tyson also got his two front teeth for Christmas.

My Parents have been in town for weeks and we have been doing all kinds of fun things but one new thing that we did was see the lights at Thanksgiving point. It was so much fun and Zac loved it. The picture below is Zac holding Tyson's hand as we drive threw the lights. Zac always holds his hand in the car. It melts my heart to see him love his brother.

On Christmas eve we always spend it with Ethan side of the family. We have an amazing dinner and open presents. We also always talk about the true meaning of Christmas. This year Ethan's mom got the Little people nativity set so the kids could be involved.

Christmas morning was so much fun! Zac was excited to see that Santa had left him presents. Santa got Zac some more train stuff and Mom and Dad got him an remote control Wall-E. Tyson also got some toys that he LOVED.

After we had our Christmas we went to my parents townhouse to do Christmas with my side of the family. Since everyone but my parents live in Utah they always come here from California. We had so much fun there and had tons of surprises. I think Zac's favorite part was getting his T-rex that he wanted soooo bad. My mom had all of us say one thing we are going to give to Christ this year. Zac told everyone that he won't hit, bite, or push and he will always say he's sorry.

The month of December is always a amazing one and it's fun to spend time with family BUT I'm happy it's over because I will have Ethan home more again.

Thankful

2009-11-18T10:46:00.007-07:00

After Tyson almost getting put in the hospital for dehydration, I'm so thankful for having Tyson in my life.

After my Grandmothers funeral and seeing my Grandpa hold tyson, I'm thankful to know that life continues and I will see all of my family again.
After being away for Zac all weekend, I'm thankful for everyday we spend together.

After Ethan and Zac had a guys weekend together, I'm thankful that he is such a good daddy and I had no worries about leaving them.

My first Triathlon!

2009-11-10T21:13:00.002-07:00

This last Saturday I did my first triathlon! It was so much fun! This has been a goal of mine for years and I finally was able to do it. I didn't pass out and I didn't finish last, that's all I cared about. I think I would like to keep doing them. Thanks to everyone who supported me. I love you guys!

A fun morning.

2009-10-10T21:24:00.002-06:00

It was such a nice Saturday so we decided to go 4 wheeling. I love 4 wheeling but I don't get to go as much as I like. It was fun to take Zac and to be able to ride on my own for awhile.

Sorry, I had too.

2009-10-10T21:11:00.002-06:00

Tyson is now 4 months old! He's doing great. He is in the 50% in weight and 90% in height. I had these pictures of Zac and Tyson at the same age. I thought it was fun to compare the two.

ZAC

Tyson

A few more from California

2009-10-02T21:53:00.003-06:00

09-09-09

2009-09-19T23:31:00.002-06:00

Disneyland is one of my favorite places ever! I don't know why I love it so much. It might be because I grew up living 20 minutes for there and always went when it was perfect weather, or when I was little and everything seamed like a fairy tale. It might be because when I was a teenager my brother worked there and we got to go on rides before they were open to the public, or my friends and I would see up and coming bands preforming in Tomorrow land or because we had our Grad-night there. Maybe it's because I worked in Downtown Disney and after work I could go on and couple of my favorite ride and go home. It also might be because Ethan and I went there a lot when we were dating and we stayed at one of the Disneyland Hotels on our honeymoon. We have a lot good memories at Disneyland and Ethan and I've been dreaming about the first time we take our kids there.

This year Disneyland is doing a promotion that you get in free on your birthday. My friend Rachel works there and she helped up get in and get some discounts! That was awesome!! Thanks so much! My parents came along to see Zac have fun and to help out with Tyson. That was so nice. Thanks Mom and Dad!! When we first got into the park we got Zac and Tyson Mickey Mouse hats with there names on them. Then Zac got to go on his first ride witch was the Buzz Lightyear. Zac didn't know what to think about it but he was so excited that he went on it again. All day long the lines were short so he got to go on several rides twice. Then we went on Autopia and Peter Pan. After that my friend Sarah met up with us and we had lunch. She brought her daughter with her and Zac had a ton of fun holding her hand. Then we went on the Carrousel, Dumbo, Pinocchio, and Mr. Toads wild ride. After that we went and found Mickey Mouse. Zac Loves Mickey Mouse, he watches all of the old cartoons on YouTube. Weeks before we went to Disneyland Ethan and I would tell him the he is going to see Mickey Mouse soon. Anyways, I think meeting him was the highlight of Zacs day. After that Ethan and I got to go on Big Thunder just the two of us. That was the highlight of my day because I felt like Ethan and I were dating again. We couldn't stop laughing on that ride. It was so much fun! Then we went on Pirates and Haunted Mansion. Zac was not scared at all, in fact he wanted to go on them again. The day was coming to a end so we went on a couple more rides again and went to dinner. We were so impressed in how well Zac and Tyson did. That whole day was amazing and the best birthday present ever!

We miss you!

2009-09-17T10:06:00.003-06:00

Hubert Woodrow Souther

Born -November 30, 1919 Died -September 17, 2001

Elizabeth Anne Souther

Born- September 23, 1921 Died- Septmeber 17, 2001

Grandma and Grandpa

When I think of days gone by

and good times spent with you,

I think how much you cared for me

no matter what I'd do.

And for the joy you've given me

unselfishly and free

I'll always love you both so much.

thanks for loving me.

What?

2009-09-15T14:19:00.002-06:00

Tyson just got his first tooth and he has two more coming in! He just turned three months old!

P.S. Pictures of Disneyland and the beach coming soon.

Are these my boys?

2009-09-03T14:26:00.005-06:00

Most of you know that my boys are "blessed" with a lot of hair. The problem is they have a lot and it grows VERY fast. When you see Zac with very long hair that is going 1,000 different directions it's not because I want it to look like that it's because I have no control over it. When I had Tyson and saw how much hair he had one thing became very clear.....I NEED to learn how to cut hair.

Yesterday my sister in law, Stephanie, came over to show me how to do it. She cut Tyson's hair first to show me what to do then I had a go at Zac's hair. After we were done I had no idea where my boys had gone, they looked sooo different! I think I did ok for my first time but I need to get more comfortable. Now I wont have to bug Stephanie so much asking her to cut my kids hair. Thank you so much Stephanie!

Before

After

Long time no post.

2009-08-07T16:31:00.002-06:00

The only reason I'm doing 3 new posts is because both my boy are sleeping at the same time!!! It's so nice to have some peace.

Tyson's Blessing Day!

2009-08-07T16:13:00.006-06:00

Tyson was blessed on Aug. 2. Tyson got to wear Ethan's blessing outfit! Ethan did a great job blessing him. There were 6 baby blessing that day!! After, we went to our house for some great food. Thanks to everyone that came and helped.

Tyson also had his 2 month checkup today. The doctor said he is doing great. He is in the 50% in his length and head. He is 60% in his weight. The only problem is the doctor thinks he has some major food allergies so I'm no longer eating anything the contains milk or wheat. THAT IS EVERYTHING! I'm so sad :( all I want is a brownie. I hope this helps.

Zac's summer fun.

2009-08-07T15:41:00.007-06:00

Our summer hasn't been the same this year because of having a newborn but Zac has still done a lot of fun things:

He became and big brother.

Got a great tan.

Went to Jackson. ( I'm so sad I missed that one)

Spent some time with his girlfriend. ( Sarah and Daphne, It was so fun having you here!)

Went swimming.

Learned how to fix a bike.

Wrestled with Mommy.

Played the piano.

Went on a horse ride.

Got really good on his scooter!

Congratulations Julie and Rafa!

2009-08-07T15:20:00.005-06:00

My sister had her baby boy, Luke on July 22 . He was 9 lb 8 oz! WOW! I'm so happy that Tyson will have a cousin the same age as him. Tyson and Luke got to play for the first time today! They had a blast! My sister is doing a great job as a mother!

Mamma Mia!!!

2009-07-26T16:18:00.005-06:00

Zac and I've been singing and dancing our days away! This is Zac's favorite song:

A month of adjustments

2009-07-12T22:45:00.004-06:00

Tyson is one month old today! Time is passing so fast, I feel like I just went to the hospital. This month has had it's ups and downs but overall it has been a fun and crazy experience.

Things that went better then I expected:

1. Labor ( minus the hemorrhaging after)

2. Recovery

3. Getting up at night ( Tyson is a great sleeper at night)

4. Breast feeding

5. Help. I have had so much help from family and friends. Thank you everyone!!!!! I LOVE YOU MOM!

6. Zac loves his brother!

7. Potty training. ( Zac regressed on the potty but I think we are almost back to were he was.)

Things that are harder then I expected:

1. It doesn't matter how much sleep I get.......I'm ALWAYS tired.

2. Trying to get out of the house is impossible.

3. The mom guilt I get thinking I can't give ether kid enough attention.

4. Finding time to get anything done around the house.

5. Finding time to spend with Ethan.

This has been a month of some major adjustments. I'm lucky to have two happy and healthy boys. They make me laugh and make me cry. Thats all the writing I'm doing for tonight so here are a few pictures.

Gotta love the curls!

2009-06-17T21:59:00.002-06:00

These are just after the bath. Ethan is so proud of the curls he wanted me to post the pictures.

Birth Story

2009-06-15T20:57:00.006-06:00

The morning of June 12, 2009 I was scheduled to be induced. The hospital told us to come in at 7:45 am and I was checked in by 8:00 am. My doctor broke my water with hopes that it would start labor. ( I've been 3.5 cm dilated 70 % effaced and a +3 station for weeks.) Nothing happens. I was put on Pitocin at 10:00 am. Contractions start but don't hurt that bad. I was having a ton of back labor. At about 11:55 I beg for an epidural threw very painful and close contractions. The nurse checks me and I'm at a 7. I try to get a epidural but just before he gives it to me I felt like I needed to push. I was already at a 10! So no pain relief for me!!! I pushed for 5 minutes and our little guy was born at 12:12 pm.

After he's born we had some time to hold him and bond. When they were about to move me to the recovery room I started to bleed way to much and they did every thing they could to stop it. 4 hours later it was under control and I was able to see my boys again. Here is a picture of us with my doctor and nurse.

The first time Zac and Tyson met.

One proud daddy!

We call Zac and Tyson, Salt and Pepper.

He's my little peace of heaven.

Tyson Jeffrey Abbott

2009-06-13T20:47:00.003-06:00

June 12, 2009

12:12 p.m.

7 lb. 14 oz.

20 in.

Dear Zac,

2009-06-02T20:32:00.021-06:00

The moment I saw you I fell in love. You looked at me and made my heart melt.

Soon, I found out what being a mom was all about. Being patient, selfless, and most of all loving.

In the beginning we had some tuff times. I think you didn't like being a baby. You still made the best if it with you smile, laugh, and cuddling.

As you grew I had so much fun seeing you personality come out. You have always been very independent.

You have the best eyes. I could stare at them all day.

Your daddy adores you!! From day one you have been a daddy's boy.

When you turned one I could believe how fast the year had passed!

The next year went even faster!!! You cant tell from this picture but you were sooooo much happier! You could do so much more in life and you love trying new things. Along with that you became more stubborn. You get that from your mom and dad.

That summer was such a fun time with you. We did so many new things together.

Your super funny!

You have the BEST, crazy hair.

You have been in my life just over two years and they have been so amazing! Soon your life is going to be very different and you'll become a big brother. Zac, never forget how special you are to me. We've had so many wonderful experiences together that I will never forget. You are my first baby ........and will alway be my baby no matter how old you get. I LOVE YOU!

-Mom

Dallas

2009-06-01T08:32:00.003-06:00

Today is my last day watching this cute little boy!!! He has joined us every Monday for almost 7 months. He has the best smile, he makes the funniest faces, he's a great dancer and can throw and ball farther then any kid his age. He's also Zac's best friend. Thanks Jana and Clint, he is such a joy to have in our home and we will miss him. Hopefully he wont be gone to long : )

R.I.P.

2009-05-27T13:20:00.004-06:00

To help pay for our new baby we sold the motorcycle today :(

It's been a great year with you. You will be missed by Ethan, me and most of all by Zac.

Memorial Day

2009-05-26T08:40:00.009-06:00

We spent our Memorial day in Ogden. We took Zac to Hill Air Force Base in the morning and after we visited Ethan's Aunt and Uncle. Memorial day always makes me think of my Grandparents. Both my Grandpa and Grandma on my Mom's side served in WW2 and my Grandpa on my Dad's side did also. The best thing about going to HAFB is being able to see the plane my Grandpa flew. Here is a picture of my Grandpa in front of the plane and then one of Zac by the same plane.

My Grandpa is on top left.

Zac and Ethan next to the B-24.

...........................................................................

These are some pictures of Ethan's Aunt and Uncle. They loved having Zac around!!

I love this place!

2009-04-29T21:30:00.006-06:00

Today I took my mom to the Tulip Festival. She hasn't been in years so it was a nice treat. I love everything about this place. I have a pass to Thanksgiving Point and the gardens are the best part! Last summer I would go four days a week for exercise and I hope to go at least twice a week this summer. Here are some pictures from the day. I was trying so hard to get a good one of Zac but I think it's impossible with a two year old.

OH MY!!

2009-04-25T21:57:00.004-06:00

I was looking threw some old pictures and found this........

....... OH MY, 1.5 kids have really aged us!!!!!!

Blogging about nothing.

2009-04-23T15:51:00.003-06:00

I don't have much to blog about lately. I've been trying to think of something fun or witty to post about but I just hear crickets in my head. Most of my thoughts are consumed with the up in coming arrival of our baby boy. I've been doing a lot. Substitute teaching, babysitting, making our basement a play room, moving Zac to a bed, refinishing furniture for the new baby, cleaning, organizing, and so on. My last sub job will be tomorrow, the school year is coming to a end and I'm just getting to big. The weather has been so nice lately so we spend every minute outside. I've had some more energy, it's nice I can be the fun mom that Zac deserves. I will miss just having Zac. He's my little buddy. BUT...I'm excited to see what this new baby brings to our family. Well, thats all.

The Easter Bunny came to see us!!!!

2009-04-13T22:56:00.006-06:00

Zac had a fun Easter filled with lots of candy! We were lucky enough to have the bunny leave treats at our house and Grandpa & Grandmas house. Here are a few pictures. Notice Zacs mouth is filled with candy in every picture!

2009-03-31T21:45:00.001-06:00

I feel loved when...

The Five Love Languages

My Primary Love Languages are probably Physical Touch and Quality Time

My Detailed Results:
Physical Touch:	10
Quality Time:	10
Words of Affirmation:	7
Acts of Service:	3
Receiving Gifts:	0

About this quiz

Unhappiness in relationships is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. It can be helpful to know what language you speak and what language those around you speak.

Tag 3 people so they can find out what their love language is.

Take the Quiz!
Check out the Book

Zac's Birth "DAY"

2009-03-15T21:34:00.018-06:00

On Saturday my baby boy turned 2. It's so crazy how time flies by. I love this age and every thing that comes with it. Zac never liked being a baby so the older he gets the happier he gets. This year I didn't want to do a party. Ethan and I decided to give Zac a supper fun day instead.

7:00 am: Wakes up and has breakfast in bed with Daddy. He kept saying "Happy Birthday to me" all day long 9:00 am: Opens presents from Mom and Dad. 9:30 am - 11:00 am : Plays with new toys and boxes that they came in.11:30 am: Gets to ride on Daddy's motorcycle. ( Don't worry it was down the street and it was only 2 miles per hour.)

12:00 pm: Lunch

1:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Nap time : )

3:30 pm: Off to the Gateway mall.

4:30 pm: Gets a cookie at Ben's Cookies.4:45 pm - 6:00 pm: Plays at the Discovery Museum.

6:15 pm: Goes to Build a Bear and gets a dog in a fishing outfit.

6:45 pm: Eats only french fries for dinner.
8:00 pm: Bed time or as Zac would say " All done!"

Success!

2009-03-05T13:27:00.004-07:00

1. After 5 days strait of not taking a nap Zac is now sleeping!! And mom is getting her much needed down time.

2. After 6 weeks of relaxing potty training Zac is now going every time in the potty. Well almost, but he is doing soooo good. I've used two diapers in the last 4 days. Success!!!

BIRTHDAY EXTRAVAGANZA

2009-02-28T14:04:00.009-07:00

Last sunday we had a big party. On Ethan's side of the family we have a lot of birthdays very close together. Happy Birthday to Ethan (Feb. 28), Chemenn (Feb. 28), Lincoln (Feb. 28), Brigon (March 1), Zac (March 14) and Keaton (March 17). It was so much fun having everyone together and all the kids had a blast playing. Here are some pictures of the extravaganza.

Grateful

2009-02-26T14:05:00.006-07:00

I NEVER watch Oprah but yesterday I did. She did a story about "faces of the recession". I'm sure that many of you saw it. Anyways it really hit home for me. They interviewed a family that was middle class last year and is now living in a homeless shelter. At first I was quick to judge. I thought they had to make so stupid choices to end up like they were. But when I heard the mom and dad both lost there jobs and couldn't find another one, it made me sad. This is such a reality for so many people. Those poor kids. They are homeless. In America. This story made me feel so grateful for everything thing that I have. Big or small. This is just some of the things that I'm grateful for;

For a husband that loves me and sticks with me threw better or worse.
Happy healthy kids that I love so much.
It's no secret that I not a fan of pregnancy but I'm soooo grateful that I'm able to have children.
Having a wonderful and supportive extended family.
To have a home. We bought a townhouse when anyone could get a loan. They approved us for much more money than what we decided to buy. I'm so glad that we didn't get in over our heads with a mortgage payment.
Having food to eat each and everyday.
Being able to spend the first two years of Zac's life at home with him.
Ethan leaves the house at 7:30 a.m. and gets home around 7:15 p.m. 5 days a week. Sometimes 6 days a week. Even with the long days he works I'm extremely grateful that he has a job.
I'm glad that we have two working cars that are almost payed off.
I'm grateful for all the small things in life such as hot water, heat and a/c.
Having such great neighbors.
With every experience in my life good or bad. I'm so grateful to have had them because it makes me who I am today.
Last but not least I'm very grateful for having a belief in God and being able to apply that everyday in my life.

23 weeks

2009-02-15T20:53:00.004-07:00

Here you go. I'm doing this for all my friends and family that don't live in Utah.

Help!!!!

2009-02-12T14:44:00.002-07:00

I was playing around with my blog and found a supper cute blog template. Anyway, I was trying to reload it and I lost all my friends and family. So if you could leave me a comment with your blog address that would be great!!!! Or email me at Shanerto@hotmail.com.

P.S. Now it will not let me change my template. HELP PLEASE!!!

What we have been up to.

2009-02-11T13:40:00.008-07:00

Well I guess I should title this "What Zac has been up to". He has been having a much more excited couple of weeks then I have.

We have started the potty training thing about a week ago. I wasn't sure if I wanted to start him so young but I just couldn't ignore the signs that he was ready. He has been doing so great! He has gone poop in the potty for the last 5 days strait. The pee thing is a different story but we are working on it. He is still in diapers when we go out or when he goes to bed. Overall I'm very pleased with the progress he made!

Last friday we went to the Living Planet Aquarium with some friends. I love getting out of the house with Zac to go do something fun. Sadly, Zac's 2 year attitude was in full force that day. I think he liked it but I need to take him back when he's in a better mood.

I think the thing I'm most excited about is Zac has been off his reflux meds for a month!!! This is a very expensive medicine he has been on since he was five weeks old.

I've been nesting big time!!. I have so many projects that I have been working on and a big list of new ones I want to start. I feel so bad for Ethan because I always have a list of things I need help with when he gets home. He's a good sport about it. I'm looking forward to warmer weather but till then I will continue to think of things to get us out of the house. The pregnancy is going better but I'm still not a fan of being pregnant. I will post a picture of me someday soon.