Davis Family

The little kids

2012-02-16T13:25:00.000-08:00

Hunter is 2 months old (almost three now, but 2 in these pictures). He is the sweetest baby I've ever had. He hardly cries, is so happy, will hang out by himself as long as I let him, then give the biggest smile to whomever decides to give him attention. He loves to talk, and will sometimes prefer to talk and smile at me rather than eat. I have NEVER had a baby like this. All my other babies have been on strict schedules by this point, but Hunter is so happy and easy that we can just let him do whatever. If he naps, that's great, if he gets woken up, that's great too - he's happy regardless! If I would have read these words while dealing with any of my other 3 babies, I would have hated the author out of jealousy. So his sweetness is definitely appreciated. If he does end up being my last, at least we will have ended on a perfect note.

This little monkey is crazy! The day I took these pictures we were having tons of fun in the back yard while the boys were at school. But this little girl, screams, cries, wakes up in the night and makes John and I loose a lot of sleep, fights with her brothers, hides from me when I want to change her diaper, snacks all day long, loves the word 'mine', shattered the screen on our brand new ipad (while using the word mine), and LOVES her daddy. I can see Caroline in about 3 years though, and our lives will be a lot calmer then! I think Caroline is going to follow after Joshua, me, and her Nana, and be an in-charge person - which should make her a great helper as well. She already takes very good care of her dolls. She strollers them around the house, puts them down for naps, and carts them around in their car seats. She is very independent and wants to do everything herself. Today she is wearing 3 pairs of pants, a skirt, shoes, and no shirt. She tried to get a 4th pair of pants on, but couldn't. She HATES me to do her hair, and screams through the whole process - often ripping it out after. And don't even ask about teeth brushing! She's a lot more cooperative for John though - and I believe the grandma's as well. She loves Joshua and Hunter. As far as Luke goes, he just has to enter the room and she starts yelling 'mine'. Poor Luke, stuck in the middle of everyone!

Why?

2012-02-13T12:02:00.000-08:00

I have been so bad lately at putting up posts. I've got tons of pictures that I need to get off my camera. I need to document the wonderfulness of baby Hunter. But for now, I'm just going to tell you about Carolines Why's. I don't know that this little girl even knows what why means. She does, however, know that it's what you say after mommy tells you something. Here's an example of her never ending why's.

Me: I have to make dinner.
Caroline: Why?
Me: Because everyone is hungry.
Caroline: Why?
Me: Because it's time to eat.
Caroline: Why?
Me: Because people get hungry at night.
Caroline: Why?
Me: Because our bodies need nourishment.
Caroline: Why?
Me: So we can grow healthy and strong.
Caroline: Why?
Me: Because
Caroline: Why?
Me: Because. Go tickle Joshua.

I was talking to John about this this morning and he reminded me that Joshua was exactly like Caroline in this way. I kinda remember that. I would be perfectly happy if Caroline ended up like Joshua. For now, she's mastering the why's.

2012 house rules rough draft

2012-01-14T15:02:00.001-08:00

Davis House Rules

1. No yelling. Always speak and correct in a soft voice.

2. No going to the bathroom in your pants.

3. When you get home, wash your hands.

4. Clean up after yourself.

5. Be reverent when someone is praying.

6. Eat with a fork or spoon.

7. Be a peacemaker. Treat others with kindness.

8. Serve your family members.

9. Be obedient. The first time Mommy or Daddy says it, you obey.

10. Work comes before play.

If you are in the green you may have 60 minutes of screens a day if your work is done.

Work includes whatever Mommy or Daddy asks of you as well as

-homework

-practicing

-getting dressed

-brushing teeth

-cleaning your room and bathroom

Our Goals

-play outside every day

-read our big book together on Sunday and have a family home evening while Caroline naps

-family dinners

Sweet Caroline

2012-01-11T12:22:00.000-08:00

I told Robin and Cody on Sunday night - "I'm trying really hard to give here love." Robin was depressed by this comment, as she remembers me saying "I can't get enough of this girl." when Caroline was 7 months old. Robin's Alivia is currently 6 months old, and Robin also can't get enough of her. I don't think either of the boys went through the terrible 2's as Caroline is. Luke was difficult, but not in the physical way that Caroline is!

The problem is that this little girl wants to be 30. And this picture captures it all. Here she is, walking accross the street, holding no ones hand, carrying her purse filled with all her things. She's got it together! Unfortunately, a 2 year old with limited vocabulary just isn't ready to take the world on by herself - regardless of her desire to do so. So instead she results to pinching, biting, body throwing, hair pulling, and top of the lungs screaming when forced to be a two year old and Mommy takes her agency away from her.

4 kids

2011-12-29T19:44:00.000-08:00

Today I've decided that the biggest change in my life since Hunter has been no down time during the day. It's amazing to me how quickly the days pass, and how I am able to go from wake up to bed time without finding time to do anything extra - And this is with my mom and mother-in-law occasionally taking the 2 or 3 older kids off my hands. I've also officially decided today that Hunter looks like Luke. When I do find some extra time, I'll have to do a side by side comparison. As for life getting back to normal, I'm not quite up for everything. We are getting out of the house some, but it's just so much easier to stay home. I'm not looking forward to the return of early morning school next week. I'm not even the one who takes, John does, but it still seems like a lot of work. I love my kids in their Christmas pi's! You'll be seeing this picture again next year as I bought all their pi's extra big.

1000 Ornaments

2011-12-12T20:03:00.000-08:00

This year I told my mom that my one wish was for her to help me set up for Christmas before Hunter came. She came over the beginning of November and did most the work, while I sat on the couch with contractions. I love Christmas ornaments. It must be the Bendheim in me. I don't think there was ever anyone with more ornaments in their house than my Grandma Bendheim, unless it's my Aunt Candy. When my Grandma passed away in 2009, us 9 grandchildren inherited some of her ornaments. She had so many that we couldn't even take them all. The result is my awesome tree. Packed full of ornaments on every branch, all the way around. The crazy thing is, I look forward to the ornament gifts from my mother-in-law each year.

Here is our 3 week old Hunter. I think he's adorable. He still does lots of sleeping and isn't cranky yet! It would be the best gift ever if he stayed calm. Regardless he's pretty precious and I'm loving having him here.

My Boys

2011-11-25T14:08:00.000-08:00

Luke loves his brother so much. When he's not with him, he says he misses him, when he is with him he gives him all the love we will allow. He shares his blankie with Hunter, whenever he is sleeping. It is just so precious to watch. Luke has so much love in his little heart. Though he loves Hunter, this past week has been hard for him. He's done a lot of playing on the computer, the wii, and watching tv. Poor Luke just starts getting grumpy and misbehaving when he has too much media time. So we've had lots of meltdowns and bad behavior. But when it comes to Hunter - he gives nothing but loves. I know nothing would make Luke happier than if Hunter ended up with dark blue eyes like him (have you ever noticed that Luke's eyes are the color of the midnight sky?). I hope Hunter gets something of Lukes, just to strengthen that bond for Luke.

When I first found out I was having another boy, I spent a good afternoon crying. And though I did come to terms with having another boy during the pregnancy, I wouldn't say I was excited about it. I would still look at baby girls and think they were just so much more fun. Now that Hunter is here, I am so grateful for him. He is so precious and special to me, and I wouldn't want any other baby. I love my boys so much. And they have taken a bigger place in my heart with the arrival of this third boy. They are so loving, and they strive to do what is right, they are thoughtful and full of life. I love them so much and am so excited to have another little boy to raise. I have been so blessed with my children. I wish it wasn't so hard on a day to day basis, so I could have 4 more.

Hunter's Birthday

2011-11-20T14:07:00.000-08:00

On Thursday around 1pm I was feeling like labor could be coming. But like I've mentioned before, I had so many braxton hicks with this pregnancy that I also wouldn't have been surprised if nothing came to be. I think I started timing contractions at 5pm, just as we were headed out to see Santa. I had my mom take me home by 7pm and at 7:30 I called the doctor. My doctor had already left for his Thanksgiving vacation back east, and the Dr. covering for him was taking longer to call back than I hoped, so John and I just headed down to the hospital around 8pm. When I got to the hospital they had all my info incorrect, and didn't have any of my prenatal papers. They thought I was 36 weeks and in pre-term labor. We convinced them I was 38 weeks (well 37 and 6 days) and after monitoring me for an hour they admitted me. When I arrived I was close to 3 centimeters dilated, and when I was admitted, I was close to 4. Then around 12:30am, I was 5 centimeters dilated and they gave me fluids, and epidural, pitocin, and absolutely nothing happened from 1am-6am. Well, his head moved down a bit, but no dilation. They broke my water at 6am, I made another centimeter or so. Then around 8:45am my new nurse came in, decided Hunters head was just not positioned right. Got her hand around his head, and her other hand/arm over my belly and worked to get him in the right position - turning and pushing. About 30 minutes after that, I pushed my epidural button because I was starting to feel my contractions more than I wanted to. With Caroline - the nurse had me start pushing before my body was ready. The epidural was not working and even though it was only about 15 minutes of pushing for her - they HURT! So I didn't want a repeat of that. After pushing the button, I still didn't feel numb enough and they were going to call the anesthesiologist. The nurse decided to check me first and she said that she could get me more meds, but if I wanted I could have the baby out in two pushes. I reluctantly trusted her, the called the OB and in less than two contractions - but technically 3.5 pushes - Hunter was out. He cried so soon, sooner than my other kids. The OB guessed his weight right on at 6 lb, 6 oz. He looked so small to me! My other kids were all around that same weight though. Joshua 6lb 12oz, Luke 6lb, 1oz, and then Caroline 4lb 15oz. He was covered in that white stuff. We both initially thought he looked like Luke. But then now having looked back at Luke's pictures, he really doesn't. I think he has Luke's skin, possibly Joshua's eyes and forehead, and his own nose and mouth. His hair reminds me of Caroline's - but much lighter. Contrasted against his red skin, his hair almost looked gray the first 24 hours. He also sported purple feet and, occasionally, legs. Apparently it is normal and fine, but the color shocked us. This picture in no way exaggerates what this looked like in person.

We are so excited to have Hunter here. I feel more attached to him as a two day old than I did initially with my other kids. Going to bed last night, I missed him! I am so grateful to have him in our family.

Our baby boy

2011-11-19T08:16:00.000-08:00

Hunter John Davis

11.18.11

6 lb 6 oz

19.5 inches

Super adorable, quiet, and lots of blonde hair (for a davis).

I had to add this picture to the post. Joshua looks like 12 to me! He's the only one who has met Hunter. The others are going to Nana's today, so they won't meet him until tomorrow. I feel a little guilty that Luke hasn't seen him, but I'm sure he doesn't realize the difference.

Visiting Santa

2011-11-18T16:04:00.000-08:00

We've made it to this Christmas celebration almost every year since we bought our house. I love it. Everything is free. And if you get there early enough, the lines aren't bad either. We waited for maybe 2 minutes to get a picture with Santa. Even more fun was having Robin and Cody now in our community and able to meet up with us. Unfortunately our hungry stomachs and their signing up to feed the missionaries meant that we were only with them for maybe 5 minutes. But next year it's going to be awesome!

We took pictures with Santa, then left the Orvins and headed to get some food. I could feel something brewing inside - and had been timing contractions since 5pm. That's really the only reason my mom stayed on the road through traffic to meet up with us. And good thing she did because by about 8:30pm we were heading to the hospital.

When I couldn't handle staying at the celebration anymore, my mom took me home and John waited with the boys to get their faces painted. They both wanted to be Pikachu. They are obsessed with Pokemon. And they LOVED their faces. To bad face paint isn't allowed at school. My mom said Luke woke up this morning and went straight to the bathroom to look at his face in the mirror. Needless to say he was very disappointed that his tossing and turning had wiped most of it off in the night.

John and I ended our night like this. And this morning we got to start our day with our new little baby!

November Happenings

2011-11-18T04:20:00.000-08:00

Robin, my Mom, and I through a shower for Diana who got married on 11.11.11. We are so excited for her and had lots of fun getting everything together. That is despite the stomach flu that encompassed my family in the days previous! Thank goodness for my mom. I don't know what I would do if I didn't have family near by. The day I was sick, she came at 9:30am and stayed until 6pm! I know I am so lucky to have a mom and mother-in-law so close, and so willing to help when needed!

Here are the Bendheim and Day Moms and sisters except Susanne.

On Sunday Redge and Marci blessed Rockford and my mom worked on getting a family picture for the Christmas Card.

Finally what might be the last belly shots. Me at 37 weeks, and I think my belly looks huge!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-18T04:01:00.000-08:00

My kids - or rather my boys - LOVE to dress up. Especially Luke! Luckily we had several different occasions this year for him to wear his costumes. On the 31st, we started our festivities with the preschool parade and party. Joshua had the day off school - so he was excited to get to come participate in Luke's class. Following the party, we headed to Kyla's house for her to do my awesome make-up. I wasn't going to dress up, big belly and all, so I thought these eyes made me look just the right amount of festive!

Joshua and Luke had been mostly super heroes at all their other halloween parties, and I had to convince them to dress as Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and Tinkerbell for actual Halloween. They ended up loving it in the end. Especially after Joshua got his bloody make-up.

I did my best to take a good picture of the three of them. But it just didn't work out perfectly this year. Last year I got an awesome shot. This year, lots of almost good shots.

We had all the Davis' and Bendheims over for dinner and trick-or-treating. I didn't get pictures of everyone - mostly because after getting everything ready all day, by the time everyone got there I just parked myself in a chair. I know Robin and Cody have pictures up on their blog. I'm sure Kori and Brad will get some up on theirs. I did manage to grab Tanner and Margot and Redge and Marci though.

I remember posting on facebook last year that I did not have the mom gene that tells me I need to spend hours making my kids costumes. Marci, however, definitely does. And she does an awesome job. She says she remembers her mom staying up all night making costumes, and her waking up the next morning and it feeling like Christmas, getting to see the final product. So for the Redge Bendheims this year, they were a Bloody Mary, Devils food cake, and a deviled egg.

(Now that I think about it, Margot must have that gene too, as she even sewed her and Tanners leggings!)

Pregnancy

2011-11-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

33 weeks

35 weeks

I think these weeks are correct. I swear I don't wear the same dress all the time. Just for pictures! I'm currently 36 weeks and feeling done. I had the stomach flu this week. That stunk. My mom did 100 percent of the care of my house and family for me. I would have died without her. I'm not loving being pregnant with 3 other kids. Especially being pregnant with an almost 2 year old. (But that kid is another post all together!) I've reached sleepless nights, constant braxton hicks, and I just feel physically and emotionally worn out. I hope these next few weeks pass quickly!

Oak Glen

2011-11-05T07:19:00.000-07:00

I have so many more pictures from the day, but if I'm going to do a little catch - up the only way I can handle doing it is minimally. We went with the Orvins, Hexbergs, Redge Bendheims, and Tanner Bendheims. For Joshua the highlight of the day was making his own apple cider. He (and his Dad and Uncles) worked hard for that gallon of fresh cider. Definitely worth it though. He loved every drop.

Here they are pouring their pressed cider. We stayed longer than everyone else and did the petting zoo and train ride. Most of which was free thanks to an old dealership employee, whose family owns it all. Can't wait to go again next year!

Joshua

2011-10-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

My dad just emailed me this picture. Joshua loving Montana life!
(and always wanting to go faster)

October Update

2011-10-18T11:12:00.000-07:00

Something is wrong with my computer, so I'll add pictures later.
Me: I don't know what I was thinking by getting pregnant. I am in no way ready for another kid right now! I am however, ready to not be pregnant. Johns work schedule has been so insane over the past few months. My huge belly is getting in the way of regular things like folding laundry and picking stuff off the floor. And Caroline is a crazy little almost two year old. All these things make me think life in a month is going to be HARD! Luckily I'm a pretty optimistic person - if I can handle to mess that will for sure be in my house, then I'll be able to handle the rest of it.

Joshua: Doing great. Super easy. Liking school. Practicing the piano. Had his conference a week ago. He's at the bottom of his class for reading, and he's the top person in his class for math. At least he's strong in one of the two! I like his teachers this year, which makes it easier to send him there all day! He's got a good heart and wants to do what's right. That doesn't mean that he always chooses to do what's right, but in his heart he wants to.

Luke: This poor kid is having a hard fall. He's super easy and loving for me at home. But his emotions are all over the place. He has breakdowns at home, school, church, anywhere. I say he's easy for me at home because I can get him back to normal real quick. One thing that is a constant bother in his life is Caroline. She knows he is easy to irritate, frustrate, upset, and tease. So she takes full advantage of her power to upset Luke every chance she gets. He is my best toy player. And if I had to have one kid at home with me all day. Luke would be my easiest. He can entertain himself for hours. Caroline and Joshua not so much. Luke is also super loving, full of compliments, hugs, and words of adoration. We had the primary program this last Sunday. Both boys knew their parts and the songs. Luke decided that he was going to be grumpy though. So for the first half of the program he was pouting in his chair. Then he started dancing and trying to entertain the congregation. Then when it came time to say his line, he said "Jesus says to follow the Holy Ghost. I play pokemon and I've got a pokemon wii." Then I pulled him down by his shirt as fast as I could from the microphone. I was so embarassed, but my mom thought it was awesome. He was the only child that did something crazy.

Caroline: She is a bully, tease, and a handful. She bites, pinches, pushes, chases, steals toys, and screams to hurt noise sensitive ears. Basically she does all that to Luke and gets along great with Joshua. You know, I look at other people's kids and they just seem so calm to me. Some how I end up with the super restless energetic ones! Caroline does great in nursery. By that I mean she goes and I haven't heard any complaints. She's super independent and wishes she could buckle her own car seat, not ride in a stroller, sit in a big kid chair, etc. She is fantastic at feeding herself with a spoon. I don't think either of my boys could do that until 4! She loves her babies, and loves to go to the pantry and find herself some snacks. Her verbal skills are for sure behind. She does understand everything, and somehow gets her points communicated. She LOVES her baby cousins. When she sees them she can't leave them alone. She shares with them, tries to take care of them, and is her version of gentle. I know she will not resent our new baby. She will be so excited to have a baby in the house all the time. But because she loves babies so much, I won't be able to leave the two of them alone in a room for a minute. She'd be all to tempted to play mommy.

John: the poor guy spends all his time working, sleeping, and doing the stuff for me that I can no longer do. This morning he is at the bread run getting food, then going to costco to get a new Christmas tree, then giving the playroom a good clean - because I no longer can. After that it's off to work until the late night hours. Hopefully he too can stay sane in the next few months!

30 Weeks

2011-09-26T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here's my lovely figure at 30+ weeks pregnant. The pregnancy isn't bad, I'm not too uncomfortable. I was actually more uncomfortable 4 weeks ago than now. My braxton hicks are constant. I don't know if it's my body or because it's my 4th pregnancy. I must admit that it is really annoying and uncomfortable at times.

Last weekend John and I headed out to my cousin Ali's wedding. It was beautiful! We also got to see Dana and Chase. Dana is due soon with identical twin boys! I think Dana is about 5 weeks ahead of me. I can't imagine having two inside me!

Both boys have started school. So far I really like Joshua's teachers this year. Haven't decided about Luke's yet. I've mentioned it before but I'm not super excited about how long Joshua is out of the house with 1st grade. He gets home around 3pm and really only has 3 hours before we need to start our bedtime routine. He needs 12 hours sleep to function well, which means he's got to be in bed at 7. On days were we have activities, he basically has no down time at all. Homework hasn't started yet, and I'm now thinking it never should. Seriously, 3 hours at home a day and you want to fill part of that time with more school work? Last week he was so exhausted, breaking down to tears, from lack of sleep and constant go, that I just let him sleep in on Friday and then take the day off.

Luke is doing great with school. He loves it and it's only 3 hours, 3 days a week. Perfect! I can not picture him ready for Kindergarten next year. He just doesn't seem old enough. Maybe this year he'll grow up a lot?

Rockford Redge and Lipstick

2011-09-15T11:49:00.001-07:00

Marci and Redge and their adorable baby boy at the end of August. Rockford Redge Bendheim. He reminds me of my boys. I don't know if it's his looks or coloring, or just because he's a boy. He makes me excited for our little one soon coming. Which reminds me that I don't think I've done a belly shot for about 6 weeks. So bad.

I have been SO sick the last 2 days. The kids haven't been 100% either, but they are feeling a lot better than me. It stinks to be pregnant, sick, and have to take care of 3 kids. I just want to lay on the couch and have someone make me all my food and bring me all the kleenex I need. I also want to be able to pee without having to get up. Today while I was trying to relax this is what Caroline decided to do. Have I mentioned she's obsessed with chapstick and lipstick?

Finally, I cannot believe how many braxton hicks this 4th pregnancy brings. They are constant and VERY ANNOYING.

Montana 2011

2011-08-29T19:44:00.000-07:00

Let me start out by saying - I am not ready for school to start this week. This has been the fastest summer ever and I am not ready to start another 10 months of schedules, homework, and too many hours away from my boys. I'm sick thinking that Joshua is going to be spending 6 1/2 hours of each day under the influence of his teacher and his peers. What's going to happen to him?!

We spent 3 weeks this summer in Montana, and it also went by faster than ever! We got to hang out with Grammie and Bop, A. Lori and James, the Housleys and my A. Becky, the Justin Tanners, and Daddy. The kids as they always do had so much fun, and it remains their favorite place to be.

Joshua spent lots of time in the lake and was not hindered by it's cold temp. He swam with Bop, went on the wave runners, loved the easy ski, and got up on two skis. He has no fear of the water, but does have fear of falling. We talked a lot about facing fears. He says he hit his fear really hard, but isn't ready to knock it down.

With Lori and James up there with us, Caroline had a playmate and got lots of Mommy time. Both are rare for her. She enjoyed being the teaser for a change, and James got a little practice for his little sibling coming.

On Tuesday nights they have a farmers market in Whitefish, and the Firemen let kids put out a fake burning house. The boys love it. In Montana there is NEVER a shortage of water. In fact, this summer there was so much water that the Day's basement in their home on Echo Lake got flooded!

Joshua caught snakes

and mice

and all three kids loved their time on the boat. The boys went out every morning for Gammie and Bops morning ski.

We were so excited for John to arrive. Joshua waited to ski until he got there. John wakeboarded.

Luke easy skied.

and we took a 4 mile family hike to Avalanche Lake in Glacier. Are you not completely amazed that Luke hiked 4 miles all by himself. We were. He completely surprised us! We thought John would be carrying him for sure, but both boys did it - and in pretty good time as well!

I think the hikes in glacier with the boys is my new favorite tradition. Last year we took Joshua through snow to Hidden Lake and he loved it. Next year we'll find a new one to do.

And finally, my belly grew. I think I'm about 23 weeks in this picture. Joshua asked me while I was wearing this dress why my bottom is so fat. Good thing that doesn't offend me at all! He just says it like it is.

4th of July

2011-08-07T18:27:00.000-07:00

These are honestly my only pictures from 4th of July. It's too hard to be taking care of the kids and taking their pictures at the same time. On the 4th, John was working, the kids and I went to the church pancake breakfast at a local park, then came home to get everything ready for my family coming over for swimming and dinner that afternoon. No fireworks - except a few in my backyard. But we had fun. And I loved Caroline's watermelon bathing suit. It's one of my favorite zulily purchases. Looking at the picture of my three kids I really can't help but think they are adorable and precious. We're pretty lucky!

Joshua Skiis

2011-08-04T11:55:00.000-07:00

Be seriously amazed with Joshua. He did awesome! More pictures and stuff to come

Alivia Pearl Orvin

2011-08-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

A Bendheim, besides myself, has finally entered the world of parenthood. And another will be very shortly following. Robin and Cody had their first baby on June 28th. With no cousins on the Bendheim side, 8 boys on the Davis side by years end, and no other girls, I'm sure Caroline is grateful to the Orvins for giving her a playmate. I'm super excited for Robin and Cody and this new adventure they get to take on together.

LA Temple

2011-07-31T19:59:00.000-07:00

A month or so ago John and I had planned on going out of town for the weekend, and then we cancelled our plans at the last minute. I had already found a sub for primary, taken everything over to her, and gone over all the details of singing time. So there was no way I was canceling. My friend had talked to me about how she had taken her kids to the visitors center at the LA temple on a Sunday before church, and I thought it sounded like a great idea. We just decided that that was going to be our Sunday activity this one Sunday. Joshua was upset to tears because he thought we weren't keeping the Sabbath Day holy, by not attending church. And maybe we should have done both. But it was neat to take the kids to see the temple and go through the newly done visitors centers. It was basically empty and we got the full attention of a sister missionary guiding us through everything. Afterward we walked around the temple grounds as long as Caroline (having not napped) could handle. We don't get too many family days. And often when we do have one, it is full of chores and things that need to get taken care of. It was needed to have this day just as a family.

Brooke and Robin

2011-07-18T22:09:00.000-07:00

I thought this picture was great because it totally looks like Robin. I can see her 31 year old face in that little baby.

And this one could totally be my glare today. We all know I make a good mean face!

Last days of school

2011-07-17T20:47:00.000-07:00

I can not believe that Luke has already finished his first year of preschool. He loved every day of it and wished I'd put him in 5 days a week with extended care. He loved all his little friends and his wonderful teacher. I was nervous how Luke would do back in September, and his teacher was expecting the worst - as she had witnessed him as a 1 1/2 - 2 year old back when Joshua was in her class. She had nothing but praise for Luke all year. I guess that shouldn't be surprising as Luke entertains everyone where ever he goes. After primary today I had two teachers come up to me saying how Luke was cracking them up during singing time. He can sure put on a show in front of a crowd!

Caroline had fun getting into things in the classroom. I hope she gets Mrs. Jennifer when she goes in a year or two.

Joshua was so ready to be done with Kindergarten. Especially because Luke was out a week before him. He did have a great year of school, but nothing as memorable as preschool. If you ask him who his friends are he'll say Jacob and Riley (his friends from church and preschool). He did love playing soccer at recess with all the kindergarten kids. I'm not sure if Joshua gets appreciated for the awesome kid he is in the 30/1 classroom. I think he just gets overlooked as an aloof, slow working kid. It makes me sad because I want everyone to love him and think he's just as amazing as we think he is!

We are now in the full swing of summer and LOVING it. I so prefer the days of no schedules. The kids and I just get along so much better and have so much more fun. I can't believe that after a Montana vacation, we'll only have a few weeks left of freedom before we have to start a whole other year of school!

Artichokes

2011-07-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

We have loved planting a garden for the past couple years. This year we bought 4 artichoke plants that everyone was super excited about. I spent $25 on a bigger one from Armstrong, and the other three we got from our favorite nursery for $1.50 each. The small ones grew just as big as the one from Armstrong. Kinda hilarious. We got more artichokes than we could eat. The kids loved checking for new buds every day. Now that the artichokes are done for this year, we check how our pumpkins are growing each day.

Joshua's Extended Family Birthday Party

2011-06-26T15:28:00.000-07:00

For Joshua's Birthday we told him he could have a family birthday party, and he kept correcting me that it was going to be an 'extended family party'. So we had dinner, cake and a pinata with the Davis and Bendheim families.

This picture of Caroline is so perfectly her. She has her kitty stuffed in her belly pretending she is pregnant like all her aunts. It's one of her favorite games! If you ask her where the baby is she runs and gets her kitty to make a baby in her belly.

We were going to have all the uncles participate in the pinata batting as well. But I forgot in the moment and it just ended up being my 3 kids plus James and Tanner. By Joshua's 7th birthday he will have 5 more cousins and one more sibling to participate in the extended family party! 2 to 7 is an amazingly big jump!

I know this picture of me is random. But I have to comment on it. When I first saw this picture I thought - 'Oh my goodness, Hair!' I really have a love hate relationship with my hair. I love that I only have to wash it twice a week. I love that with a lot of blow dry effort it can look good and healthy. I love my color (which surprises me) - and I don't care if everyone else doesn't love it - I still do. I love it long. Now what drives me nuts. My goodness could my hair have any more textures, from ringlet curls, waves, frizz and silky straight, I've got it all in one head of hair. This makes the not blown dry look - just not so nice. I just wish my hair would choose to be curly or straight. I'm just waiting for the pregnancy that convinces one texture to switch to the other side. Next it takes me a good 25 minutes of WORK to blow dry my hair. And even then I sometimes miss something and end up with bumpy waves in some portion. This whole year I've been awesome about doing my hair (especially since I only have to do it twice a week). Since we are 10 days into summer, and are constantly in the pool, I know that this summer my hair is going to be an air dried mess and I don't care. Don't be scared when you run into me.

Not much to say about these three cuties. Joshua sure does love spending time with his family (and friends). Every morning he wakes up and asks me "Who are we going to see today? Are we going to anyones' house? Is anyone coming over?" The question drives me nuts, but he's definitely a social guy. And he loves his adults almost more than kids. He was the perfect kid to be the first and only grandchild for so long!

Cool

2011-06-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

I played it cool, but I've got to admit I felt just a little bit extra cool when Kobe Bryant walked up to my front door yesterday, sat in my living room, and watched me help his daughter out on the piano. Everybody needs a little music help every once in a while!

Big Bear

2011-06-14T11:43:00.000-07:00

This Saturday the dealership was taking their get jeepn club (www.getjeepn.com) out to big bear to go off roading. John decided that it would be fun to take the boys along too. They were SO excited. Especially Joshua! He knew that they were going to have to leave at 6am on Saturday morning, so he wanted to get to bed at 6pm Friday night. Obviously that was impossible as he wasn't even close to tired yet. They had a great time basically being in the car for the majority of the day. Joshua says his favorie part was going to the top of the mountain. (and playing with Austin - another kid that went with his parents). Hopefully John gets put on get jeepn duty again!

Joshua turns 6

2011-06-11T15:27:00.000-07:00

So like I mentioned in the Alisal post - Joshua loves to go out to eat. His actual birthday we took him to Benihana for Lunch. Robin was so kind to take Caroline for me so I didn't have to deal with an 18 month old, and was able to enjoy the celebration. Luke had been having weird stomach sickness, so we only let him eat white rice, which totally bumbed him out. But we promised a return so he can enjoy everything. The great thing about lunch at Benihana is that an adult meal is only $10. The bad thing is that their kid meals are also $10.

Following lunch we picked up Caroline from the Orvins new close house and headed home for some gift opening. The favorite surprise hit was the skateboard. He loved it and rode it for hours afterwards.

My 6 year old Joshua is completely average in height and weight. He hasn't lost any teeth, but his bottom two are ready and waiting.

He's done awesome this year in music, does well in math, and obviously has the conversing thing down. His fine and gross motor skills are a bit lacking. John would say - he's not behind on gross motor - he's just not Redge. Redge was riding a bike without training wheels at like age 3. John says Redge is super athletic (like most people who have never played rugby in their life, don't just walk onto a college team) and I'm just comparing Joshua to him. I don't feel that I am, but maybe he's just normal. The hard thing is John works a lot. His time with Joshua is taking Joshua to school in the morning, and Sundays - 3 hours of which are filled up with church. And I am really bad at being the mom that teaches her kid to ride a bike and hit a baseball. So the kid isn't getting much help from us parents either.

As far as the fine motor skills go, he just doesn't care what his letters look like. He just gets them down. But let me tell you - I think he's an amazing artist. He doesn't draw all that well, but give him a box to color, and you'll end up with the most elaborately rainbow colored box you've ever seen. A little annoying when he's supposed to be grafting for homework and he has about 15 boxes in all to fill in. But at least he's being creative and taking pride in what he's doing.

I don't know if Joshua has the type of personality that his teachers will ever see or appreciate. John came home early on Thursday night to go to a kindergarten performance by Joshua's class. 90% of the time Joshua was on stage he was dazed barily even dancing. I was so glad we didn't invite any grandparents. But at home in the days leading up to the performance he was completely animated dancing and singing the songs around the house. Go figure. Joshua is dependable, trust worthy, knows right from wrong, always an amazing big brother to Caroline, and often to Luke. He is a constant talker and question asker. He's enjoyed recess and snack time this year, but could take or leave school. He probably wouldn't care at all if I decided to homeschool him. But my goodness would I have a hard time being patient. I can hardly hold my patience practicing the piano with him.

Joshua has always seemed old to me. I'm glad he's my first kid because he has been and will continue to be my big helper as life is chaotic. I can't believe that in another 6 years he will be 12!!!!

New babies arriving

2011-06-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

Right after Alisal a shower was hosted for Robin at my house. She's having a little girl - hopefully in the next three weeks. I'm super excited for her and Cody. I'm also excited for Caroline who is constantly surounded by boys. Best of all, Robin and Cody bought a condo less than 10 minutes from us, so our girls are bound to be best buddies.

And on May 9th Brad and Kori welcomed their second little boy, Monte Ryan Davis. The Davis clan is abounding in boys. I'm excited for their family. I have loved my two boys. They aren't the best of buddies all the time, but they LOVE each other, and at times play great together.

So Kori, get excited to wake up to this in a couple of years. Can't beat brothers snuggled up in the morning - keeping themselves entertained!

Alisal

2011-06-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

The Alisal is an amazing resort north of Santa Barbara that the whole Bendheim Family has been going to for years. My dad, his 3 siblings, and their kids and grandkids. The group is mainly adults as my cousin Peter and I are the only ones with kids. He's got 2 year old twin girls. But next year we will have my 4 kids, Peter's girls, Robins little girl, and Marci's little boy. I'm super excited for more cousins for my kids to play with! Joshua and Luke don't seem to notice the lack of kids though. They are so used to being around adults, they just love all the aunt and uncle attention on them.

This year we went from Friday - Thursday. Almost a full week. I thought it was going to be long, but it actually was perfect. John wasn't going to be able to come up for very much of the trip, as he's been working a TON the last few months... But he surprised us by coming up on Sunday and staying all the way through Thursday!

Luke's favorite day was the day John took the boys fishing at the lake. Luke talks about it all the time. He even wishes he could have taken the fish home to eat. In Montana we'll have to catch some fish off the dock that Luke can actually eat. Both boys also loved going out to eat breakfast and dinner. The love the social aspect and getting to order whatever they want. It's amazing how much Joshua especially loves restaurants. If he had it his way we'd always eat out. The boys are completely easy at restaurants these days. Caroline - not so much. It's just to hard to keep her entertained. So she and I usually only lasted 30 minutes max, then went back to the room. I can see the light though - In a few years my kids will be all independent sitting at their own kids table and I'll be able to enjoy my dinner, just as everyone else is in the stage I'm in right now.

Caroline was water obsessed as she always is. She could spend her whole day in the pool - at home and at Alisal. She has no fear and LOVES to swim. Luckily she's got her Aunt Margo, who isn't afraid of water below jacuzzi temperature, to take her swimming! No wonder Caroline loves Margot so much!

My kids sure live the sweet life thanks to vacations (Alisal and Montana) made possible through Grandparents! Almost all my childhood memories are of vacations to La Jolla (I'm still morning the loss) and Montana/Canada. My kids already live in anticipation of their vacations. It's so awesome to see them so excited!

So much Catch up

2011-06-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

Things I've missed - Luke turns 4 - Easter - Alisal - a new Nephew - Joshua turns 6 - and everything in between. Let's start with Luke.

Luke has the most unique coloring. His hair and skin are white, and his eyes are the darkest midnight blue you can imagine. He hates being the only one with super dark blue eyes, so it would be awesome if the new baby came out looking like Luke! His hair is also course and curly. And there are about 4 jet black strands in it. He says he's turning like aunt Robin (because of the black hair).

Luke is so adorable and such a stinker. He is the littlest 4 year old you'll meet, and I'm totally loving it right now. He's just so easy to hold and snuggle. His body fits perfectly and he is by far my best cuddler. His smile is precious and he is full of life and entertainment. Everyone loves Luke.

Luke didn't walk until he was 17 months old! That was 100% because of his unwillingness to fail. That is manifesting now too. He refuses to ride a bike or a scooter. He won't even try. I'm sure if he would give it 5 minutes he'd be fine, but he just won't let himself get on there and not be as good as Joshua. So when his school had the bike-a-thon this year, Luke had to miss because there is no wheeled toy he will ride. Such a crazy kid.

Luke also is the king of hissy fits. If he doesn't like something, he goes into his crying fit. He used to only do this around me - now - he doesn't hide his flaws from anyone. He'll do it at church, school, grandparents house, while playing with friends. Luke is our hissy fit boy. It never works for him - I don't give him what he wants, but for now - he still feels the need to have a hissy fit.

For Luke's 4th birthday party he'd been talking for months about how he was going to have a costume party. This kid loves to dress up more than anyone! So all his guests came dressed in their favorite costumes. Luke, who'd been wanting a superwhy costume for months, got one from us for his party. Check out Robin, Cody, Tanner, and Margot. What awesome sports!

2011-06-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

Joshua today as we are discussing how it took me 2 1/2 hours of pushing to get him out asks me "Did a lot of squirrels come by when I was born? Because my head was shaped like an acorn?"

I'm crazy

2011-05-25T09:33:00.000-07:00

And is my belly seriously this big already?! And does my face honestly look that pasty?! People are just not having 4 kids these days. At least not in southern California. When I told my aunt I was pregnant she said "Seriously? You need help, you need to go see someone." As I look at the caos in my life, I can't help but agree with her. And again, no one has 4 kids anymore. John and I have decided that 3 is the new 4. And 4 is the old 6. 3 kids is the new bigger, but not too big family. And 4 is the new, seriously you are crazy family. At least that's the way I'm feeling as I reluctantly tell strangers it's not my first but my 4th.

It's been a while

2011-05-04T16:16:00.000-07:00

Here is my attempt to document the past 4 months of Carolines life. Really it's going to be some pictures of her, and an update of her now at almost 17 months. This first picture is back in January. I can't believe how much her hair has grown since then!

This one is March, and one thing this girly loves is a toothbrush. She will go into the bathroom, find a toothbrush and toothpaste and bring it to John or I throughout the day.

Here are Caroline and Luke having fun on a hot April day. This was the first time Caroline every showed that she felt pretty. We put this Tinkerbell bathing suit on her and she was prancing around like she was amazing!

Here's my almost 17 month old. Post first haircut done by me. (I actually think it turned out quite cute) At 17 months this little girl still takes two naps a day. Loves to do anything big kids are doing. Loves to sit in big kid chairs. Fights with Luke, and teases him. Pushes, hits, and occasionally even bites Luke. Loves Ruby dog, and often gets out of her cranky moods by playing with Ruby. Wakes up from naps on the wrong side of the bed. Loves to go outside. Picks strawberries from the backyard and eats them up. Has no fear of the water and could swim in the pool all day long. (Luckily for her she got my skin, which doesn't burn very easily). She really loves her Aunt Margot, who babysat her from 6 months to 12 months while I taught piano. She says a few words regularly, but her vocabulary really hasn't increased that much. She's super tough, and can walk off a scrape - However she does break down in full tears when Daddy tells her no. She's not great at playing by herself - and really doesn't let me get much done at home - but if I invite over some extra friends, she stays entertained for hours. She loves to be naughty, and looks for opportunities to do so. (maybe mischievous is a better word). She spends a lot of her time in a car, and doesn't complain too much about that anymore. She still seems like such a baby to me. I can't believe that in another 7 months she will be two, and will no longer be the baby of the family. Time goes by SO FAST!

The Family Cookbook

2011-04-02T13:03:00.001-07:00

Lori, Dana and I have started a cooking blog! We are cooking our way through the family cook book. Check it out and let us know what you think. This has already been a lot of fun. Hoping to share lots of good recipes with all of you :)

http://davisfamilyeats.blogspot.com/

Joshua and his love for Rosemary

2011-03-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

This is the way Joshua eats rosemary. Not as a garnish - but as a main course. This kid's always got rosemary breath.

Holidays

2011-03-17T21:04:00.000-07:00

Joshua got in the car today after school all excited talking about how a leprechaun came to his school and so on and so on. Then he asked if a leprechaun came to our house and you know how I wanted to respond? "Joshua, there are no such thing as leprechauns!". But instead I just said no. I am so NOT the unimportant holiday mom. Christmas is awesome, Thanksgiving important, Halloween is lots of fun. But I've got no love for St. Patricks Day, Valentines Day, New Years, 4th of July, or any of the others. I don't know if it's because John isn't around on any holidays, or if that would even make a difference. But as I look at everyone's pictures on facebook of their green this and green that all I can do is roll my eyes.

Orchard Hills

2011-03-15T15:04:00.000-07:00

I've searched the internet for the perfect picture to accompany this post and there is nothing! Joshua has swim team each week right near Orchard Hills. I pack up the bob stroller and take Caroline and Luke for a walk during this time. The area is AMAZING. There aren't any houses built up yet (not sure when there will be) but the whole area is covered in avacado groves, hills, and amazing views. It's my absolute favorite walk with the kids. Last week there were baby ladybugs, just hatched hanging out on all the light poles. We snatched one up for Luke to hold throughout the walk - it was such a baby it couldn't even fly yet. Luke was LOVING it. He said his hands were an obstacle course for the lady bug and called it his baby. Then as we were about back to swim team Caroline reached over grabbed the poor lady bug from Luke and smushed it. Luke started balling at the death of his baby. It really was cute.

2011-03-05T17:55:00.000-08:00

My poor kid has not left the couch since Tuesday morning. I am not exaggerating. The only steps he's taken on his feet have been the ones we forced him to take this morning after his 'magic bath' (the bath we told him would make him not be sick anymore - since we figured he was better - just mentally a little needy). Well since that magic bath he's thrown up 3 times. The poor kid. He's so little, and his arms are just looking too skinny. A couple of Danimals smoothies does constitute much over the span of 5 days! On top of Luke being sick, I've had a sinus infection - and poor Joshua and Caroline have been stuck at home. I just hope this is the end of it and tomorrow will bring a happier belly and mind for Lukey. He deserves to feel good!

In case you were wondering... again

2011-02-18T10:07:00.000-08:00

If you've got to go to the bathroom while in line at Disneyland - which Luke always blows me with as we are about to get in our boat at Small World - just let an employee know what you're doing and get the VIP treatment when you get back. Straight to the front of the line!

In case you were wondering...

2011-02-17T08:48:00.000-08:00

With the boys I spent money or was gifted expensive bottles. And after Luke, I gave them all away because they were before the BPA free revolution, and Luke had destroyed the nipples with his teeth. With Caroline I started restocking up on $9 a piece bottles, then because of the whole NICU experience returned them all and got the $1 a piece BPA free gerber bottles. I have probably spent a total of $9 on my entire bottle stock and they have been awesome for Caroline. So, give them a try instead of going straight for the expensive option - you could be pleasantly surpized!

My Red PJ's

2011-02-15T20:06:00.000-08:00

I know I've mentioned them before - but I live in my red pj's. Every night come 7pm, I am sporting them, and if you come to my house before 9am, I'll still be sporting them. Jenny has seen me almost daily for the last year in my red pj's. I've recently become convinced that when I die and my loved ones picture me in their mind, it will be in my red pj's.

Baby Caroline

2011-02-05T09:25:00.000-08:00

Caroline is 13, well almost 14 months. She has grown up SO much in the last 2 months. She is walking everywhere now. She was taking steps here and there, but while up in Montana the first weekend in January, she really started taking off. Following Montana she was sick for a week or two and John continues to point out to me that I just don't do well with sick kids. They drive me bonkers with their wining, crying, and neediness. Caroline, who is already a super mommy's girl, is hooked at my leg or hip when she is sick. But this last week has been awesome. She's healthy, walking around everywhere, and playing so cutely. She has a few dolls and her beloved kitty blanket that she will put in her toy stroller and push around the house. It is SO adorable.

She seems old to me - like Joshua did. I think it's because her communication skills keep getting better and better. She has a handful of words. Her favorites are "there", "there tis" (there it is), "haaa" (hi), "shs" (shoes). Everyday on her changing table I ask her "where's the baby?". She then points to the picture of herself as a one month old that Jennifer took and says "there". Then she waves hi to the baby. The other morning I asked her "Where's baby Caroline?". She pointed and said "There's baby Care". I was so impressed, as every mother always is with their amazing baby!!

Caroline loves going to school to pick up Joshua and his friend Jacob. She gets excited to see both of them, and wants both their attention and kisses. Jacob is a little hesitant to kiss her, but I think he's getting used to her lunging in at him for a kiss.

Caroline is so far my most obedient child. It amazes me. I can tell her "no" and she LISTENS! Also when she gets into things - Like a box of tampons in my bathroom - when I tell her to clean them up - she does! Seriously - I'm so excited and hope this lasts for the next 18 years.

On the yucky side, she sure loves the toilet. If there is a seat open, she's in there drinking whatever water she can get up to her mouth. And on the even yuckier side, if one of her brothers has gone number 2 and forgotten to flush, she grabs up the toilet paper out of the potty and sucks on it. Needless to say, we have a BIG rule about closing the lid.

At her 12 month check up Caroline was still 65% for height and 20% for weight. That makes her my fattest kid. Joshua and Luke can't break the 15% for weight. They are just skinny boys. She also eats more than the boys at times. She does a better job of finishing a banana or sandwich, and definitely can put away more scrambled eggs in the morning. She loves drinking from a straw, and eating off my fork when I'm eating my breakfast or lunch. Veggie soup is a definite favorite (Luke does good with that one too), which is good because she's not doing so well with the baby food these days.

Kitty is Caroline's favorite companion, and she cuddles it every time she gets it. She takes two naps a day - usually around 9am and 1pm. And goes to bed by 6:30pm. She usually wakes up around 5am for a bottle, then goes back to bed until sometime between 7:00 and 7:45am. The bulk of her sleeping is at night as her naps aren't usually too long. She's much happier in the car these days, and is loving watching the Fraggle Rock movie in the car. She claps along with the theme song (along with the rest of us, it's just so catchy - we love it!)

It seems like forever ago that she was born, yet this time has gone by so fast. She still feels like my baby, yet she's acting so much more like a big girl. When cries become fake (seriously like "wah, wah, wah") you know your little baby is turning big.

We love our little miss Caroline! Can't wait to see who she becomes this year.

Lukey... again

2011-02-01T15:03:00.001-08:00

Luke: Mom can you turn Dino Dan back on please?
Me: No, we are all done with TV for today.
Luke: I'm gonna spank your bottom!

Disneyland

2011-01-29T10:00:00.000-08:00

This fall and now winter we've spent more time at Disneland than ever. The passes expire in February, and I'm not going to renew this year, so we've been making the most of our time. Disney passes have almost doubled in price over the last 3 years - which is ridiculous - and Joshua will be getting out of school a lot later next year - making it not as easy to head out in the afternoon. When we first got passes, Joshua was 2 and Luke a little baby. I remember thinking it impossible to take them by myself, and I never did. Now with three, I take them by myself ALL the time. And it's really not that big of a deal. I especially love when we hit the park on a day like last Thursday, when it is completely empty. I know the boys are going to be sad to say goodbye to their passes, but I'm kind of excited to start doing something new with our time! So here is the three of us on the Buzz ride. Notice how much higher Luke's score is than Joshua's.

Lukey

2011-01-28T07:35:00.000-08:00

Here are a collection of Lukey stories accumulated over the last month. The last one being from this morning.

This kid crackes me up. As we are making cupcakes he says "Mom, where's Super Why costume?" I tell him we don't have one. Then he tells me "The mail man's going to give it to me!" (in his deep raspy voice). Of course the mail man is... that's who gives you all your costumes.

While the boys are on my bed, Luke is trying to hide in the pillows and Joshua is jumping around Luke proclaims, "Guys Stop! You're making me frus-ter-ated!!"

This morning I asked Luke "Are you going to get married when you grow up?" He said "uhuh." Then I asked him "Who are you going to marry?" He replies "Joseph." (Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus have been a hot topic lately)

Today on a walk... Luke is yelling NO to Caroline. I say "Luke, stop yelling at Caroline." he replies "But she's trying to take me away from God!

This morning Luke has been waiting by the window since 6am for "his Super Why from the mailman". I was looking at costumes online yesterday, I didn't buy one, but he thinks the mailman is going to bring one any second. The exciting advantage of sitting by the window all morning, however, is that they got to see a skunk cruising down the sidewalk.

I quote my sister

2011-01-23T10:16:00.000-08:00

I have to second my sisters "No"! And I'm taking the liberty to copy and paste her comments here.

"My NO goes to Toyota. My first car was a Toyota so this NO is extra sad. But, I absolutely hate their new Highlander car commercials where the kid is talking about how cool his mom is for the type of car she drives, while placing pity on his classmates whose parents drive uncool cars. Are we supposed to want to buy a Highlander because our kids will supposedly think we're cool? That's absolutely, positively ridiculous. First off, I hope I don't care if my kids think I'm cool. Secondly, I hope that if they do think I'm cool, it's not solely based on the vehicle I'm driving. Who here is about to spend the type of cash a Highlander costs just to appear trendy and in-the-know with their kids? Whoever would say yes to this question should be in therapy. I honestly haven't seen a child character appear more self-righteous, egotistic, materialistic, "too cool," and entitled than the kid they've chosen to portray. Gross and shameful Toyota!"

Thank you Robin!

One more Montana Picture

2011-01-17T21:10:00.000-08:00

We've basically been sick - one right after the other - since we got back. I hate circulated plane air!

Help Dylan

2011-01-10T07:12:00.000-08:00

As lots of you know, when I finished college, I moved to Italy to teach English. While there I met the amazing Osmani Family, through their son Sead, who's life story is so inspirational. Now, Sead's nephew Dylan, a five year old boy, is in need of a medical specialist in the U.S., but his parents need help. Sead and his wife Kirsten have done a lot of fund raising for Dylan, but need more help. Please see the blog below for more info. Even a small donation will help. Thank you.
dylanfund.blogspot.com”

Montana

2011-01-09T12:52:00.000-08:00

We are currently enjoying our first ever Davis family vacation by ourselves! We bought tickets on Wednesday and left on Friday to enjoy the amazingness that is my parents place in Whitefish, Mt. So far we haven't left the house/property. The boys are having a blast in the snow. Especially Joshua - he'd stay out there all day if we let him. He just wants to walk through knee deep piles of snow endlessly. Luke get's cold a little faster. But then again, his hands and feet turn purple in a lookewarm bath. They both love that they get to sleep in uncle Redge and uncle Tanner's beds. Joshua keeps saying he wishes we lived in Montana. I can't blame him, every time we come up here it's non stop fun.

Girls

2011-01-04T21:05:00.000-08:00

I was definitely tanner, and had more teeth!

It's also May versus December.

Christmas Festivities

2010-12-30T13:17:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas season has gone by so fast. I'm sad that it's over, and it will be a LONG time before Christmas is here again. Here are the boys at their Italian Class Christmas performance.

None of my siblings were in town for Christmas. So we celebrated a week early with my parents, brothers, and their wives. Here's Caroline with Marci.

Luke's face is rarely clean - and I never touch up photo's for the blog!

Joshua and Daddy and Tanner, Margot, and Caroline

The boys had lots of fun opening gifts and I liked spreading everything out a bit. My mom made chili and corn bread.

Next on Tuesday we had our kids cookie decorating party. This was 100% Luke's creation. He announced to me one night that HE was going to have a cookie party as I was making some cookies for an adult only party. He even came up with his own guest list.

I thought it turned out great and the kids had tons of fun. I'm sure we'll do it again next year. John did an awesome job of making the garage festive. We were hoping to do it outside, but the rain ruined those plans.

This is just a picture of the kids in the bath. I was trying to capture the uniqueness of Caroline's smile - fangs and no center teeth.

Christmas Eve we had my parents and all the Davis' over to our house. We moved some furniture out of the living room to make room for our long table.

The kids with Aunt Dana who we don't get to see often enough.

Nothing in our house is complete without dress up.

John baked a turkey. We had potatoes, stuffing, green beans, rolls, and a salad.

Bop Peter and miss Caroline.

We tied to act out the Nativity. Lori was Mary, she's holding Joseph (Luke) - who's holding baby Jesus, and Joshua was a wise man.

Christmas morning Joshua was up first, Luke last. If you look at Luke's eyes you can see that they are all puffy from lack of sleep

We had breakfast with my parents, then headed over to the Davis' for the rest of Christmas.

Love these guys!

Have you ever seen Robin look so much like me?

2010-12-17T20:08:00.000-08:00

In general I really don't think we look alike at all. We definitely sound alike, and have the same mannerisms, but we don't really look all that similar - that is except in these 2 pictures. I'm amazed at how much Robin looks like me.

One Year Ago Today

2010-12-09T21:09:00.000-08:00

I can remember SO well the day miss Caroline was born. I remember that they moved me from antepartum the night before into labor and delivery. The beds were so much more comfortable in antepartum. By 6:30am my induction began, and I basically got my epidural at the same time. John was with me from the beginning, and I was so jealous of the goldfish he kept eating. I got him to give me about 5 of them, but then he was unwilling to break the rules anymore than that. I was so nervous for the health of my baby. I wasn't nervous in the days leading up to 12/9, but when delivery day came, I couldn't help but feel guilty that she had to come into the world so early. The day was long, I was slow to progress, and luckily I had a doctor that had the same ideas as me concerning c-sections. Finally around 10pm, after the epidural had worn completely off, she was born - almost a month and a half early. She was in the NICU 12 days and came home 12/23. She's grown SO much since those tiny days, but this year seems to be just a blur. Where has the time gone? My baby is 1 today and leaving babyhood behind.

Arkansas

2010-11-30T20:49:00.000-08:00

I'm a little late documenting my trip to visit Robin and Cody in Arkansas. I hope that I can remember everything I wanted to write about. First of all, you should all be amazed at the amazing store Robin and Cody have built. Look up California Yogurt Company on facebook to see pictures of their shop. They did such a good job with every detail... and of course the yogurt is delicious. I kept thinking how cool Joshua would feel walking into their shop and being able to get whatever he wanted!

When I arrived in Little Rock, Robin picked me up from the airport, then we drove to the shop where Cody was working. He handed me an envelope he had prepared for me - the paper inside said "Welcome to Arkansas, I hope you enjoy your stay." He had put inside a gift certificate for a manicure and pedicure, a gift card to Olive Garden, and of course and all you can eat gift certificate to the yogurt shop. What an amazing brother-in-law he is!! Do you not agree?! Cody also worked the entire weekend to let Robin and I just hang out and have fun.

We honestly didn't do anything exciting. We hung out, ate out, and shopped places like Walmart, TJMax, and Hobby Lobby. It was AMAZING - seriously - I had the best time. Arkansas is beautiful. The trees were SO colorful and plentiful. I kept telling Robin that I could totally live there. I was impressed. Cody says the summers are what make it impossible for him to live there permanently - And knowing my intense relationship with the weather, I'd probably come to the same conclusion.

(Me, in front of the Cornish House, where the Duggars lived while in Little Rock)

Apart from getting to spend awesome time with the Orvins, the highlight of my trip was getting a little Duggar connection. If you don't know why I love the Duggars so much, let me tell you. They have managed to raise kids with the highest values. I worry everyday about how I'm going to be able to do the same in today's world. John and I ~~had~~ got to speak in church a few months back and the topic was teaching your children the stories of Jesus. The first person that popped into my mind was Michelle Duggar. I even asked Robin "Can I use Michelle Duggar as an example in my talk?" I just love how she, and so many other people in Arkansas, so openly use the example of Jesus in their everyday language and life. I feel like we so often us "choose the right" or "make good decisions" instead of "what would Jesus do" or "you need to stay tethered to Jesus". They just do such a good job of instilling that personal relationship with Christ and there is an accountability that comes with that. I admire the Duggars for the kids they raise, for how they unapologetically live different than many people, and of course for the amazing patience Michelle has in parenting. So all that leads me to this next picture. This is me on the phone with Michelle. Crying - telling her that she's an inspiration. It is an enormous task we have as parents to guide our children back to their Heavenly Father.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T15:36:00.000-08:00

This is the adorable picture of my family you won't be getting in your Christmas card! Unfortunately it didn't fit - So... we had to have a second photo session and settle for the second best picture. Can you believe we got one with all three kids smiling?!

She Loves Our Photo Sessions

2010-11-17T20:36:00.000-08:00

She looks like an old lady who's missing a few teeth. I had to share this for proof that she really does have bottom teeth and a fang - and you can see the other fang coming in.

11 Months

2010-11-11T07:57:00.000-08:00

Caroline is 11 Months and I can't believe HOW FAST THIS YEAR IS GOING BY!! She currently has crazy hair that sticks straight up more than it lays down. She's got 2 bottom teeth, a right fang, and a left fang coming in. No middle top teeth in sight. She can wave and say "Ha" for hi - and loves to do it over and over when she's in the bath tub. Lately she's started mimicking us talking on the phone. Whenever she gets a phone in her hand, she'll hold it up to her ear and tilt her head to the side. It's super cute! She will also give kisses to anyone, and will bite anyone that gets too close. Luke is too often the bitten one. I'm actually liking being able to say to Luke - "don't get too close to Caroline, she'll bite you!" It works well to keep Caroline safe from his maulings. Her favorite thing in the world is to be carried around on my hip. She usually hates being left alone to play by herself. But if enough kids are around, she'll stay content in the playroom. She's at 2 naps a day and her nights have been bad for about a week hopefully due to a cold. She really loves other babies and will even play with her little friend here below.

In this picture Caroline is doing her pterodactyl scream. She does it all the time. It's loud and funny. She also will hold her breath, clinch her jaw and her fists, and get all intense. It's also really funny. She extra loves her daddy ever since I had the stomach flu, and gets super excited to see him. She looks for her brothers in the car - and is doing much better in the car since we got a swiveling DVD player. She's a fun addition to our family and I'm excited to see how her personality grows. She does sumo wrestling squats and stands in the middle of the room all the time, but never takes steps on her own. So I'm not sure if she's close to walking yet or not. We love our little, big 11 month old!

Oak Glen

2010-11-07T10:19:00.000-08:00

We took our traditional trip to Oak Glen the day after Halloween with Grammie, Bop Peter, Aunt Lori and baby James. It was a lot of fun, and right before the heat hit (thank goodness).

We got our $1 pumpkins, ate at the restaurant on Riley's Farm, and got apples and apple cider donuts at another orchard. The kids did great - even Caroline. And best of all we got John to ourselves all day long!

I forgot my camera, so my mom was our awesome photographer, documenting the day. It was beautiful, but bees where everywhere scavenging on the massive amounts of apples that go to waste lying on the ground. We were amazed by how many apples they leave to rot. I treasured every apple on our young apple tree this fall. John and I have LOVED having our fruit trees, grape vine, and seasonal veggies. John is even a Garden Master this year for Joshua's kindergarten class. Now we just need an acre big backyard and we could have lots of fun!

Peter Pan takes on Religion

2010-11-06T09:31:00.000-07:00

Marci and Redge are babysitting our kids this weekend. We had to come home after dinner at Disneyland to pick up some forgotten items and Marci told me a story about Luke that was so awesome. Luke was Peter Pan and Marci was Captain Hook. They were in the middle of an intense sword fight when Luke raised his sword and proclaimed with intensity "BY THE POWER OF GOD!!!". Marci started cracking up and Luke said "Hook, why are you laughing?". That kid is so funny!

Bop

2010-11-04T17:42:00.000-07:00

Joshua asked me today, "Why are both the Grandpa's named, Bop?"
I replied with, "Because YOU named them Bop!"
He honestly thought my dad's name was 'Bop Peter' and that my father-in-laws name was 'Bop'.

Halloween Festivities

2010-11-01T19:54:00.000-07:00

I actually got some decent pictures of my kids before our trunk or treat on Saturday night. Luke, who was going to be Woody for Halloween again, changed his mind about two weeks before Halloween and I ordered him this Peter Pan costume. He LOVES it and has been wearing it everyday. He role plays constantly, whether in costume or not.

On Sunday we had a fun dinner and some trick or treating. Joshua's make up was curtosy of Grammie.

Check out all the awesome costumes sported by the Bendheims! However, Nana definitely won for the biggest transformation. She didn't look a thing like herself.

Once Luke saw Tanner was Buzz, he changed his mind and went back to Woody - But you can't argue with him as he does make an adorable Woody.

Spiders

2010-10-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

These are the awesome Halloween spiders we made today. Well I made them, the boys counted the beads on the legs as I put them on. I thought they turned out AWESOME. I'm going to make another one for the girl I visit teach.

Off subject, Luke makes a habit of nick naming people. Jacob - becomes Jakey, Water - becomes wawa, and Caroline is Carris. He calls her Carris all day long. That is unless he's role playing.

"Brooke I've got HUGE news!!!"

2010-10-15T21:15:00.000-07:00

That was the message my sister left on my answering machine today!!

Any guesses as to what it could be?!?!?!?

All your guesses are wrong.

The SUPER EXCITING BEST news that she shared with me is that..........when I go out to visit her in a little bit I'M going to get to TALK to Michelle Duggar on the phone! I know most of you are disappointed, hoping for a Robin's pregnant or something. But I couldn't be more excited! Robin met a customer who happens to be an old friend of Michelle's - after talking to Robin about how I love the Duggar family, this friend offered to come into the yogurt shop while I'm in town and call Michelle so I can talk to her. What an awesome sister I have! I recently gave a talk in church about teaching your kids the gospel. I resisted the urge to use their family in my talk. But I seriously admire the values they instill in their kids and hope I'm able to somehow do the same for mine.

Caroline at 9 months (now 10)

2010-10-15T10:35:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how old little Caroline is. This year is going by so fast - honestly it's been the fastest year of my life. Caroline at her 9 month appointment was tall (70-75th percentile) and skinny (I forget, but under 20th percentile). She's crawling everywhere, mostly to my legs so I can pick her up. She can pull up on anything and can stand balancing by herself. She babbles lots, but only uses one word correctly - num num - for food. Dada is her favorite word, but I'm not convinced yet she uses it correctly, as she says it ALL the time. Caroline and I had a nasty case of the stomach flu on Tuesday. It was honestly the worst I've ever had it. John stayed home and watched the kids all day. And he literally carried Caroline around for the entire day. I think it was a serious bonding day for the two of them.

Luke loves his little sister and includes her in his roll playing games. If he's Woody, she's baby Jessy.

I thought this picture was funny because Caroline and Joshua have the same expression on their face.

What I've been up to

2010-10-11T14:58:00.000-07:00

I have to post this picture. First because it's awesome, and second because can you see how much John looks like his mom. Seriously look into her eyes and you'll feel like you're looking at John!

So who do you think looks like John of our kids?

I've been uploading old pictures of John and family - So fun.

We Love our Aunts and Uncles

2010-10-10T14:14:00.001-07:00

http://tannerandmargotb.blogspot.com/2010/10/joshua-and-luke.html

My Joshua

2010-10-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

I really think that Joshua is not your average 5 year old. I'm sure every parent thinks their child is one of a kind - extra special. Of course they all are, but that's not what I'm saying here. I really think he has a not typical personality. I mostly love it, however it can drive me nuts too. I've had 2 aunts say they couldn't handle him as a child (in a non offensive way of course). I'm glad he was sent to me because I (at least feel like I) totally get him.

The poor kid stole a candy bar today from Target. He was SO excited when we got home, laughing, as he showed me what he was going to eat for dessert. I then had to explain to him what stealing was, and how not only was it breaking one of Heavenly Father's commandments, but also it was breaking the law. I called John and asked him to get home in time to take Joshua back to Target and pay for the candy bar. When the time came, Joshua didn't want to leave. John said he cried the whole way to Target convinced he was going to jail. Finally John said that even though that wouldn't happen, if it did happen, John would go for him. Then it turned into a stream of - well then how will I get home? (mommy will pick you up) - what if she goes to jail instead of picking me up? (the police man can take you home) - what if he takes both of us to jail instead of taking me home? and on and on all in tears. It really is sad and hilarious all at the same time. Sad because he really was scared, hilarious because of his dissatisfaction with just the "that won't happen, stop asking!" reply. But really good, because at least he won't be stealing again, I promise you that!

What I love about Joshua is his adult like eyes he CAN look at his younger siblings with. When Luke is so excited to show Joshua a cool trick, Joshua not only pays attention to him, but he also responds with full enthusiasm "That's awesome Lukey! That's a really cool trick for a 3 year old." He rarely ignores or belittles. I LOVE THAT.

Joshua is in his 3rd Kindergarten class and 2nd school - which all happened within the first 2 weeks of school. It's great because he's where I was trying to get him in back in March. Being number 124 on the waiting list, we didn't think it was going to happen - but 5 days into the school it did. So my unfazed little boy has had 3 kindergarten teachers this year - and hopefully - that's all he'll have! I'm extra protective of Joshua and want only positive experiences for him. It KILLS me to hear, 'so and so was mean to me' - or 'they wouldn't let me play with them'. I know I can't protect him from childhood, but I really want to. Or at least the parts that I see as hurtful.

I don't know that I enjoy the routined days of the school year, or the fast mornings getting him out of the house by 7:40. I miss the relaxing, fun days of summer. I am grateful for the separate out of the house stimulation my boys are having as that is possibly leading to a little less fighting!

Life is changing so much, so quickly. The little baby I had 5 years ago isn't even recognizable. I can't believe that in another 5 years he'll be 10 and Caroline will be in Kindergarten. Can't I just freeze them and keep them as mine forever?

SO BEHIND!!

2010-09-30T13:18:00.000-07:00

I'm going back 3 weeks on this post!! That's how behind I am on the blogging. For the past I don't know how long - but over a year - we've been doing Tuesday night dinners at Beach Pit BBQ. Kids eat free and they have a play area, so I love it!

My kids probably go out to eat more than the average youngsters - and they ask everyday to go to a restaurant. Seriously, they do. Good thing it isn't always super easy with 3 kids by myself at the restaurant, otherwise we would probably eat out way to often! But Beach Pit is ALWAYS easy. Joshua is my official server, he goes inside to get everything, and luckily the employees think he's adorable. He chats it up with them every week, which isn't surprising knowing Joshua!

We usually have family or friends that meet us there, which makes it even better for me (and the kids), but even if no one else comes, we are almost always there. This is the new play structure they got this summer! Such an upgrade from the little house. Hooray for Tuesdays!

Old Maid

2010-09-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

I'm listening to my boys playing Old Maid right now. It is so hilarious to me. Joshua keeps saying Old Navy and Luke keeps saying Old Maidy. Luke: "Where'd the Old Maidy go?" Joshua: "Here's the Old Navy!"

The School Year Begins

2010-09-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that Caroline has already figured out how to feed Ruby! As I am doing this post, she is picking cheerios off her highchair and throwing them down to ruby!

Now on to the exciting stuff! Luke started preschool last week. He has the same teacher Joshua had 2 years ago. He is loving every second of it and loving being a big boy. I'm a little nervous about how he's going to behave, but so far so good. His teacher has assured me he hasn't been a bully. Yesterday in the car, however, Luke said "I gotta get those guys... Aiden and Mitchel, I've got to kill them..." I interrupted him to say that we can't kill people and he responded "Dead."

Joshua started Kindergarten on Wednesday and is also loving it, but is not very good about giving me details of what he does each day. Though he's an information collector, he's not quite the information provider. One exciting thing (I think) is that he's getting moved to a Kindergarten/ First Grade combo class - which means, smaller class size and a school time that matches up with Lukey's much better! Today is his last day in his current class, then Tuesday he gets to start in the new one. I'm excited for both of us. Today is also Joshua's first day of pre-competitive swim team. I'm super excited for him to be able to start this. He's done well with swimming so far - and I think this will push him a lot.

Caroline has been a trooper this week, sleeping in the car for 20 minutes at a time. I don't know if she will ever be on a normal nap schedule.

Kindergarten

2010-08-31T18:34:00.000-07:00

In this moment of being beyond due for a massive break from my kids, boys constantly fighting, and choosing to not listen to me in the worst of all moments, I could not be less excited for my fall schedule. It will go like this every Monday Wednesday and Friday: 9am take Luke to preschool, 10:12am take Joshua to kindergarten, 12pm pick up Luke, 1:35 pick up Joshua. And Caroline will nap when? It's going to stink. And no, there are no friends in the preschool class, and I didn't recognize a single name in the kindergarten class and we are the only people from our ward at this elementary school. Hopefully we will find someone in Kindergarten that wants to carpool. But I don't know that that will even make it easier. Either way I'm waking Caroline up to leave. On the bright side, Joshua is in the smallest class - and is where he should be academically. And I guess that is more important than an easy schedule for me.

Caroline's 8 month update

2010-08-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

The past 8.5 months have gone by so fast. I can't believe that in such a short while we will be celebrating Caroline's 1st Birthday. She has grown up a lot this month. She's crawling everywhere, pulling herself up on everything, and eating anything she can get her hands on - that is except her bottles. She does not want to sit still long enough to drink more than 2 ounces of formula. She's driving me bonkers with that. And yes, about 2 weeks ago I ran out of my breast milk supply. I was shocked at how long it lasted me. And though those few months I was pumping were REALLY hard - I'll now say it was totally worth it to store up all that milk. Caroline loves attention and reminds me of Joshua in how she's not much of a self entertainer. She's constantly crawling to my ankles and pulling herself up my legs. She really hates her car seat - more than any other child - and cries 80% of the time we are in the car. That gets annoying. She definitely prefers me to anyone else, but will go to just about anyone. She loves the song Sweet Caroline, as it is constantly sung to her. She's eating in her big highchair, and looks like such a big girl in it. She loves the pool and loves her bath. She also loves to eat sand anytime she can get near it. She definitely thinks she's big enough to do anything her brothers are doing - which is cute. Physically she's the first kid with my skin. She's got darker hair than either of the boys did at her age. I think she's got the long eyelashes, but I'm not sure if they will end up as long as the boys. I think her eye color is amazing. I think she's just adorable, but I'm her mom. I'm sad with how fast she's growing and before we know it she's going to leave babyhood behind. But it is exciting to watch her grow, develop and discover. We love our Caroline

Nerdy Boys

2010-08-26T06:59:00.000-07:00

The Newest Bendheim's

2010-08-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

Marci and Redge got married on Saturday. It was a beautiful day and Marci put everything together herself. She is both talented and crazy! Talented because everything looked amazing, and crazy for taking on so much! Redge makes for the 3rd and last Bendheim wedding since October 2009. All my siblings got married so fast our family dynamics seem to have changed overnight. For so long it was the four of us plus John. Now we've got Cody, Margot, and Marci. It's exciting. My kids LOVE the weddings and were so excited to go to this party.

Both boys had tons of fun. I think Joshua and Luke's favorite part were the ice cream cones. Luke also started the dancing out for the evening. All day before the reception Luke was talking about how he was going to dance with baby Luke (Marci's 5 month old nephew.)

Caroline looked adorable. This is the only picture I have of her though. She was super easy and ended up sleeping for a good part of the night.

Congratulations to Redge and Marci - We love you guys!

Summer Times

2010-08-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

We have been on the go all week. My house is a mess, and I've got 4 loads of laundry to fold. Maybe it's because I feel like summer is slipping away from us, and all too soon I'm going to loose Joshua to 5 days of school for the rest of his life. It's sad. I've been loving having everyone home and being able to do whatever we want when we want this summer. Contrary to what I thought would happen, the boys have not been to a day of summer camp. But Luke starts preschool in about 10 days, and Joshua kindergarten soon after. I'm going to miss these days with the kids. They are just growing up so fast.

We met aunts Kori and Lori and some friends at the tide pools this week. The boys had a great time. Later that night we were reading a book we got from my mom cleaning out her house. It was the story of Samson and Delila. In the book it says that the Philistines were the enemy of God's people. Luke was so excited "Enemy, like at the beach!!" (sea enenemy). Luke loved seeing the little fish and crabs. Joshua had fun running around with Addison.

Luke and Tanner are 17 months apart - but you'd never know it by looking at them. Obviously if you talk to them you can tell Luke is older, but he is definitely not any bigger. Joshua asked the question "Why don't you think Tanner asks any questions?" at a family dinner recently. He ended up answering the question himself... He decided that "Tanner already knows everything, so he doesn't need to ask any questions."

Tomorrow we are heading down to aunt Margot's beach. The boys love that as well - it'll be are 3rd time in 10 days. Hopefully Margot doesn't get sick of us!! Before I forget, Luke is horribly bad with babies. He drags, rolls, wrestles, pulls Caroline ever second I'm not looking. But he honestly does it all in love. And the first thing out of his mouth when he sees aunt Lori with baby James is "I love baby James. I love him." He's so sweet, but so bad with the little ones.

My sweet little one being a good sport being dragged everywhere and napping anywhere she can.

She's Crawling

2010-08-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

My Caroline is moving all around - and has been for about a week. At 7 1/2 months, she is definitely my youngest crawler and has both her brothers beat by 3 months! And she was 5 1/2 weeks early! I'm impressed with her skills. I can't believe how big she is getting. Her hair has been growing like a weed the past 2 weeks. It basically sticks straight up from all points on her head right now. This picture is after the bath, so I slicked the wet hair down. She loves eating anything I'll let her. She HATES her car seat passionately. She loves riding in the shopping cart. Most of all she loves being held and walked around the action. She goes swimming and gets dunked in the pool. She loves it. We took her to the beach and she stayed awake for 5 hours so as not to miss any fun. She loved sitting in the sand, eating sea weed. She takes 3 naps a day - but they aren't too long. She loves watching Ruby and her brothers, but especially Ruby. She only cries for attention, but she loves attention. I can't even imagine her at a year old - but it's just around the corner. And Lori... take a look at James at Christmas time - can you even believe he's going to be this big?!? We love our Caroline, I'm hoping her sweetness with make John give in to having another kid!

Cousins

2010-08-03T20:59:00.000-07:00

Aunts Kori and Lori and cousins Tanner and James came over this afternoon for swimming and then out to dinner. I'm so loving the family fun time, and the kids are loving it too. I know from this point it's just going to get even better. It's awesome how Lukey and Tanner have so much fun together. They don't even communicate in words - yet they can keep each other completely entertained. So far the Davis' have collectively had 4 boys in 5 years - and that just makes for a childhood full of fun, creating memories.

Do I have a filter?

2010-08-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

It seems the older I get the less I care what people think of me - and the more opinionated I become. For some reason I just really like to share my knowledge with people. However, I've always 'known' that I've got a good filter. Like - Maybe you shouldn't say that you might sound like a - snob, bad parent, selfish wife, (you fill in the blank). Obviously with Robin and John there is for sure absolute no filter whatsoever. But last week in a conversation with Lori and a friend that's known me forever they where commenting on how I don't have filter. They where comparing me to my mom. No way. I've talked with Robin about this. Mom doesn't have a filter, but I definitely do... right? Have my opinions become so strong that they sound unfiltered, even though I'm holding stuff back? Or maybe I'm just not holding back anymore and giving everyone Brooke uncensored. At least no one has to guess where I stand on a subject, or what I'm thinking. :)

Imaginary Play

2010-07-31T10:16:00.000-07:00

I've already talked about the boys water-skiing through the store.... Then two days ago, as I was thinking I really needed to go to Costco, the boys where so involved in their play in the playroom that I just couldn't interrupt them. The door was closed, so I couldn't hear what they were pretending, but they were entertained forever. Later that afternoon, I was in the playroom as well and they started back where they left off. They were driving the boats. Joshua was Bop Peter and he was driving the 'Rocket'. Luke, who's scared of the rocket, was driving the quiet boat. Then ever since last night they've been playing 'Tanner and Margot's wedding'. Joshua is Tanner, Luke is Margot. They dance, Tanner (Joshua) twirls Margot (Luke), they wear rings, they bow, and then they pretend to put on g's before going to bed. I just listened from the other room for about 30 minutes last night as they where doing this. It was so awesome. I even heard them talking about wearing the wrong clothes - which I'm guessing is because Margot was always wearing Tanner's clothes in Montana. I love it when my boys play so awesomely together instead of fighting. It makes me SO HAPPY!

We're back!

2010-07-24T19:20:00.000-07:00

Our first day back home was spent unpacking, picking tomatoes, cleaning the house, practicing the musical number for tomorrow with Redge, shopping (successfully) for something for Caroline to wear for her upcoming pictures, swimming, messing the house, playing dress up, going to Beach Pitt BBQ for lunch/dinner, shopping for ribbon to make Caroline a bow for her upcoming pictures, Luke and Joshua "water-skiing" through Michaels, Luke only answering to "Margot" while he was water-skiing through Michaels, "Margot" getting put in time-outs for not stopping water-skiing, and finally an early bed for all 3 kids.

Why We Love Montana

2010-07-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Montana - and my kids and John feel the same way. One of the best things about being up here is all the family time. My sister-in-laws have been amazing with my kids. Here are Marci and Luke fishing!

Could this picture of Daddy and Caroline be any cuter? Caroline loved the pool at home before we left and she now loves the jacuzzi up here. She's has been good to go with anyone - she's not picky at this age - she just wants to make sure someone is giving her attention. She's sitting pretty well, and can rock on her hands and knees. So does that mean she's really close to crawling? My other kids where such late crawlers, I don't even remember them getting on their hands and knees.

Uncle Tanner has taken Joshua twice on the seat ski, and for the first time in his life, Joshua did it with out crying or throwing a hissy fit. I was so proud of him! He's an amazingly reasonable kid.

These next pictures are from a hike that John, Joshua and I took in Glacier. I was so excited to take Joshua on this special adventure. He was so excited to go to the "Snowy Mountains". Since Joshua really wanted to touch snow, we took him up to Hidden Lake. I was sure there would be at least some snow there, and I was right. There was more snow than I've ever seen at Logan's Pass. Joshua right away wanted to walk in the snow and John said not until the hike was over. Well about two minutes into the hike there was snow on the trail and Joshua got his wish - then we discovered that snow was actually covering at least 90% of the entire trail. So our entire 3 mile hike was basically through the snow. Joshua was in heaven and we were cracking up at all the slipping and sliding Joshua and I where doing! We saw a family of mountain goats, little squirrels, a few hoary marmots and a big horned sheep. It was beyond beautiful, as this part of the park always is. The little water falls, streams, lakes, grass, flowers, trees and views are more beautiful than any other part of the world I've ever seen. Joshua loved every minute of our adventure and didn't stop talking for a second during the entire 2 hour car ride up the mountains, or the 2 hours down the mountains. He will NEVER have an awkward moment on a first date. If he can't think of something to say he resorts to "So...Mommy, how was your day." (great Joshua, I've been with you the whole entire day - you know everything I've done - you are hilarious.)

This last picture is where we ate our sandwiches in the middle of the trees to keep warm, just like the goats do.

Family Additions

2010-07-13T20:58:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to have a new Davis nephew. Baby James Robert Hexberg was born to Aunt Lori and Uncle Haws on the last day of June! That makes 4 boy Davis cousins in the last 5 years. These boys are going to have so much fun together! He is adorable and I am so excited for Lori and Haws. Being a parent is so amazing. Just thinking about the joy this little guy is going to bring into their life makes me cry.

Now for the Bendheims - we've gotten (or by 8/24 will have gotten) two new sister-in-laws/aunts. Margot and Tanner got married on 5/8 and Marci and Redge will be married 8/24. I feel so lucky to have honestly awesome sister-in-laws all the way around. I've got 5 of them - and they are all people I'm glad I'll know until I'm 80, and get to go through the most important parts of life with.

I'm obsessed

2010-07-09T21:20:00.000-07:00

I don't know why - I just can't get enough of Caroline! As I'm writing this, a friend of mine is brought to mind that keeps writing the same thing about her third child. So, is it a third child thing? An easy child after a tough child thing? Or is it finally getting the opposite gender? Whatever it is I'm totally obsessed with little Caroline - and think she is so adorable!

Jacuzzi fun

2010-07-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the bathing suit Aunt Dana! Caroline loves the water. She'd gone in the pool several times before we made it up here - and had tons of fun - she even loves being dunked! No lake experiences yet, and I'm sure there won't be any - the lake is just too cold for a baby (and me!). But the jacuzzi has been lots of fun for all. Caroline also has a black eye in this picture from falling on a toy - poor girl - learning to sit up is hard. Redge, Tanner and Margo arrive today! We are so excited. And Ruby got herself a $300 ticket to fly up here too because Tinkerbell duties called aunt Jennifer away. At least I don't have to worry about the Coyote's while John is at work all day!

We made it!

2010-07-05T12:50:00.001-07:00

Everyone I talked to before I left and during my trip thought I was crazy for flying alone with my 3 kids. I seriously wasn't worried at all. And rightfully so because the kids did awesome! We left Long Beach Sunday evening and flew to Salt Lake, then had a 40 minute layover before continuing to Montana. Both flights were around 90 minutes. I took the double bob as my stroller, my diaper bag, a back pack, and a baby bjorn. I wore Caroline for the entirety of both flights in the baby bjorn. She did awesome. She screamed for about 2 minutes when we where getting situated on the first flight, and that was the only sound anyone heard from her for the rest of both flights. She took a nap on the first, and slept the whole second flight. The planes are small, So Joshua had to sit next to a stranger. I knew this would be easy for me because he LOVES to talk. The first flight the 30 year old single women humored Joshua as she played with her phone and looked through a magazine. Luke stayed happy playing his leapster and just being excited about going on the 'hairplane'. After letting the boys literally race around the airport during the short layover, we boarded the second plane and Caroline was asleep before we took off. The plane was pretty empty, so Joshua had the row to himself. That plane left at 9:40pm, so Luke was pretty tired, and not able to get comfortable. He had about a 5 minute episode where he was doing lots of crying. Joshua, during that time, turned to the lady sitting behind him and asked her to come sit next to him, which she did. She then proceeded to engage Joshua in conversation, and gave him her undivided attention until we where off the plane. Joshua was in heaven! We arrived around 11:15pm and Luke fell asleep in the car ride home. Joshua didn't end up in bed until around 12:45am - and this morning woke up and went down to my parents before any of the rest of us were awake. That kid is going to go to bed early tonight! Luke was so adorable this year because he was so excited for both the ride and the destination. What a change from age 2. It makes my life so much easier. I'm glad John is flying home with us, but I would totally fly again with the kids without worry. They were awesome. Now we've just got lots of relatives, and fun times ahead in Whitefish.

I promise myself that this week I'll do posts about my adorable new little nephew, and my brothers weddings!

Cleaning the Bathroom

2010-06-26T16:52:00.001-07:00

(I had to delete the pictures. Cleaning it up almost made me vomit, and I just couldn't see them over and over every time I opened my blog!)

My second child's version of cleaning the bathroom involves dipping toilet paper and lint from the dryer in the toilet and spreading it everywhere. This is the third time this week I've walked in on this activity!

It wasn't that he had been deprived of attention that day either. He had just been swimming for three hours, his friend had just left the house probably 10 minutes earlier. He is a crazy crazy boy!

Coyote's

2010-06-23T07:16:00.000-07:00

Our neighborhood is under invasion! It started with phone call while I was on vacation in April. My 80 something year old neighbor was trying hard to get a hold of me to warn me that she had seen two coyote's in her backyard jump into mine. Most people know I've got young children. So in April, I had another neighbor stop by and say the same thing - he had coyote's in his backyard that he saw jump the fence into mine. This was all while I was out of town. I was worried for a while, then didn't hear much for a while so was starting to get relaxed. Then on Monday morning I was woken up to the sound of a few coyote's doing who knows what (playing, killing something, fighting?) Just on the other side of our backyard fence. Later that morning a neighbor was talking to Fish and Wild Life - so I ran over to see what the deal was. At this point they won't do anything, but my neighbor said - "If you hear a shot gun go off, don't call the police." He had seen 2 coyote's that morning. My other neighbor knocked on my door that afternoon to warn me, because she had been seeing them as well. Last night another neighbor called to warn me of the situation. I've only seen one coyote - and I was actually excited to see him after they had been causing so much neighborhood drama. I guess a while back the neighborhood had a coyote problem and finally the authorities came out and trapped them. I don't know what point it has to get to though for that to happen. I'm worried for Ruby, and I'm not letting my kids in the backyard by themselves, which is totally annoying. So much for 'go outside and play' so I can get some work done! Apparently our neighborhood also has a skunk situation right now as well. We did have some skunks living under our house (we are a raised foundation) back in the early spring. We knew they where there when the outside smelled nice and fresh, but our house had a nasty skunk smell. We where able to lock them out while they where gone, and cover up where they where digging under the fence. You'd think though that the coyote's would rid the neighborhood of the skunks, seeing as they are both out from dusk to dawn. But - maybe their spray really works to their protection. My neighbor said he had 5 baby skunks playing in his backyard. So... I hope that we are able to convince authorities that we need the coyote's taken out. They are protected, so it's hard to get anything done. I just want to be able to leave my doggy door open, and let my kids play without worry!

Princess

2010-06-18T22:12:00.000-07:00

I walked into the playroom to find all our chalk scattered around baby Caroline. I asked Luke to clean them up and he told me "I've got to paint baby Caroline." I told him he couldn't do that and he replied. "I've got to paint her like a beautiful princess." I don't think Joshua even realizes if/that people are wearing make-up. But my 3 year old princess lover has put together that in order to be beautiful you've got to paint your face.

6 Months

2010-06-14T14:10:00.001-07:00

Can you believe that little Caroline is 6 months old!! This time has flown by. And can believe that this little girl who was 5 1/2 weeks early is in the 60% for height and 25% for weight!! I'm so proud of her! She has been a happy, quiet, content baby. However, over the last 10 days she has developed this shriek that she likes to use all the time to display her discontentment. It's painful to the ear! She's sleeping 12+ hours at night, but that wasn't the case until she hit 5-5 1/2 months. She's not on a 2 nap a day schedule yet, and is still doing the sleep, wake up, eat, hang out for two hours, sleep schedule. She is a wiggle worm and will often arch her back to wiggle herself off my lap and on to the floor. She loves to roll and flip on her belly - even in the bath tub. And I'm pretty sure she sleeps on her belly, because that's how I usually find her. She just discovered Ruby this week and loves to watch her. And of course, she loves to put everything in her mouth! She's a cutie - and I'm loving having my little girl!

Ahhhh

2010-06-02T20:17:00.001-07:00

I like that my friend has a daily blog. She's been carrying around a camera and documenting her daily life. I like the idea of that - but would probably do more of just a word documentation - one because my camera is too big - and two because in the end I enjoy the stories more. However, if I did have a daily blog, since Saturday I would have written each day: MY KIDS ARE DRIVING ME NUTS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

At Home Buddies

2010-05-23T20:56:00.000-07:00

So I was planning on posting about something completely different, then while looking for pictures I ran across these that I took earlier this month and they made me smile. Luke loves his baby Caroline. Really he loves her too much. He wants to help her do everything - her rolls her over back and forth and back and forth - he drags her along the floor - he "feeds" her cheerios and spiderman stickers. Basically I can not leave him alone with her. One moment he'll be staring at her like and angel, the next she's crying because he's got his hand over her mouth smothering her. But he sure does love her.

Our 5 year old

2010-05-16T14:55:00.000-07:00

The Information Collector

John and I are so excited to finally have come up with a phrase that describes Joshua so fully. Joshua is never satisfied with simple answers. He doesn't want to know which soap to wash his hands with, but must talk about all the types of soap that exist for 10 minutes after I ask him to wash his hands. He wants to know everything about everything - all the sharp things in the world, and how the rank from sharpest to dullest - all the fruits and veggies in season at one given time - all the counties and cities and states. He would never ask who's the current president, he'd make me list all the presidents that our country has ever had. "Tell me all the princesses that have ever existed in the real world." "Tell me all the ingredients in ....." "Tell me all the kinds of things a coyote eats." "Tell me all the types of birds that exist." He would love it if I would finally give into his request to count as high as I can. Driving home from church today I told Joshua "I don't know, I'm not an encyclopedia." Then John told me - "You know that's what Steele (John's Uncle) got out to read to Joshua." Only Joshua would want someone to read him the encyclopedia. So best put, he is our information collector.

I can control Joshua without yelling or loosing my temper. He will stop any bad behavior, or do anything I need him to if I start calmly counting backward from 5 (knowing that if I get to '0' he gets naughty sauce). He isn't as well behaved for others because they don't use the backward counting and he is a master negotiator. He'll just keep pleading his case until someone just gives in to make him stop talking!

Joshua is the slowest eater, dresser, cleaner upper. Again, he is so slow because he gets side tracked and does not close his mouth. Joshua drives me nuts when he talks on the phone because he can't concentrate on the conversation - he tries to multitask walking in circles, dazing, and flipping the phone while talking. However, I just recently learned that he will concentrate on a conversation if I don't let him put the phone on speaker and make him sit in a chair.

Joshua is finally doing well on the piano - and I'm able to be consistent with him because his brain is absorbing it. He's also very interested in reading and spelling. In general he likes learning (I guess that goes along with the whole information collecting thing.)

Joshua loves adults and adult attention. We recently went to Alisal with my dad's extended family and Joshua couldn't get enough of my cousins, my aunts and my uncles. He has also enjoyed his friends more this year and has requested having them over.

For some reason I feel more protective of Joshua than Luke - meaning I feel like I need to protect Joshua from getting his feelings hurt or from someone being unkind to him. I don't know why, but I've felt that way ever since he was 18 months old. With Luke I'm totally confident that he can fend for himself.

Joshua's imagination has grown a lot this year and he finally does a good job of playing with toys by himself. He's predictable easy (as long as non stop conversation doesn't wear on your nerves), and generally happy. He's an old 5 year old and ready for Kindergarten. But he's been old since he was 20 months. I'm sad he's growing so quickly and before we know it he's not going to need/want us like he does now. We love our Joshua!!

In the middle??

2010-05-04T20:38:00.000-07:00

"I'm hungry to hangaber."
"I'm thirsty to lemonade."
"I don't want your house mommy!"

These were Luke's comments coming home from Beach Pitt BBQ tonight.

Secondly, while talking with my friend about the social dynamics of wards, I automatically grouped myself in the 'young' crowd. She, however, questioned me on that - saying I'm too old to be classified as part of the young ones. I realize I'm no Tanner and Margot, but I didn't realize I might have left that stage all together. John and I are weeks away from being 32 and 34 - is it strange that we still attend the 30 and under Sunday school class? (or at least he does because I'm in primary.)

Things I forgot

2010-04-27T20:23:00.000-07:00

Here are a few more things I forgot in the last post.

Me speaking to Luke:
"We can't go down there, the grass is all wet."
"It's not wet, it's cute."
To Luke everything is cute... he'll say "Oh, look at the worm, he's so cute." "The bee's a baby, he won't sting me, he's cute."

If you ever tell Luke "Jesus loves you.", he will without fail respond with (in a mad voice) "No he doesn't, he's got owies. " He's very passionate about this, and I haven't been able to change his mind.

Joshua constantly asks me to start pumping again. I have no idea why he would want me to. He could be just trying to make conversation - since the kid talks until his eyes close with exhaustion. But he keeps bringing it up.

The Kids

2010-04-26T20:41:00.001-07:00

Joshua says
-He was never a baby, he just popped out just like he is now. (a hint as to why he doesn't like people saying Caroline looks like him.)
-If he has a son he's going to name him Joe.
-If he has a daughter, he's going to name her Caroline Margaret Davis.
-He thinks it would be hilarious if he married a girl who's last name was already Davis.
-He's going to marry Alexandra. (who's last name is not Davis.)
-He has 4 names: Joshua La Mont Davis. (Instead of Joshua Lamont Davis.)

In his prayers Joshua always blesses
-"Joshua La Mont Davis who's saying the prayer."
- "Baby Caroline Margaret Davis."
- "Daddy, Mommy, and Lukey."
-"Everyone in the world, even the bad guys."
- "the scriptures, the bibles, the Holy Ghost, Jesus, and Heavenly Father"

Joshua is obsessed with numbers and is constantly asking what "?" plus "?" is. He will flip through my magazines at home counting the pages. He likes to know what number is halfway between two different numbers. Maybe this means he'll be good at math???

Luke loves his Aunts, Uncles, Grandma's, and Grandpa's. He's extremely self confident and will walk around a restaurant full of strangers as Woody, entertaining each table. (Until I realize he's no longer with Robin and race off to find him.) He is Mr. Drama. He loves to pout and fake cry. He gets mad if he misses when he swings at a baseball or tennis ball with his bat or racket. He loves bugs and rubs his snot all over his face without any disgust. When he holds my hand he still just holds a couple fingers. He loves his Superman and Buzz and flies them around everywhere. He is the master of pbskids.org. At home it takes a lot to get him off the computer. He is pretend afraid of sharks. Meaning he used to be afraid of sharks in his bed, but now just says it for fun with a fake cry. " (cry sound, cry sound) I'm scared the sharks in my bed." he says. I'll reply "There's no sharks, sharks live in the ocean." "Oh, okay." He loves blueberry yogurt and chocolate. He eat strawberries off the plant without even picking them. He picks up bugs by their wings. He puts ants in his hair. He's not close to being potty trained.

2010-04-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

Miss Caroline is loving her bouncer. She reminds John and I so much of Joshua - Both physically and personality wise. Joshua would spend hours in his bouncer as a baby. Joshua gets really upset if anyone says that Caroline looks like him. I've tried to figure out why, but he can't come up with a reason. The only things I can think of are that either it's because she's a girl, or because she's a small baby.
Both boys where playing with Caroline while I was taking her picture, then they both insisted I take a picture of their gum. So... Here we have the boys and their gum.
Robin says I've been slaking as a blogger, so that's why I'm doing this post. We don't have much new to report. Joshua is almost 5 and still the insane talker. He could talk for 3 hours straight without getting bored. Luke is going through a stubborn, defiant, tough stage. I've really got to work on keeping him in check because he's starting to be rude to other adults. Caroline is being a good little baby. Sleeping well, growing really well, and giving lots of smiles. She's not so sure of strangers, and like Joshua as a baby, will often cry if she doesn't know the person holding her. She's a doll for me and I'm really enjoying her as a baby.

Lukey is 3!

2010-03-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

I honestly can't believe that little Lukey is a big 3 years old. He still seems like my baby. Depending on his agenda he bumps back and forth between "I'm little" and "I'm big". If he wants me to hold him he'll always say "I'm little!".

Luke is a character. Outside of our house he is the entertainer and the life of the party. Everywhere we go, kids and grown-ups alike love Luke. He's not shy or intimidated by those older than him and is known to tease 6 year olds.

At home Luke is slow to listen, slow to mind, and quick to pout. Luke can take round after round of naughty (Tabasco) sauce without it phasing him. However he does not like being locked in the playroom and will usually listen to avoid that. (I wonder why being locked in a room full of toys and a TV that he knows how to turn on could be such a bad thing?) Most in life he loves his little sister and playing on the computer. He has recently mastered the mouse and can play memory by himself on the computer.

Luke wants to spend the day out of the house, doesn't matter what we are doing - he'd rather be at the grocery store than at home. As we pull into our driveway after being out he always complains "I don't want to go home!".

Luke's only activity this fall/spring has been Italian Class. He's been a lot easier in the mommy and me class than Joshua was. And he loves to perform for everyone there. This last week they started with the welcome song where they go around and ask everyone their name and age. They get to Luke and sing the song asking him his name and his response is: hands on hips, left leg out, left foot tapping, voice singing "You've got a friend in me." It was hilarious, a moment I wish I had the video camera.

Luke has recently become afraid of sharks, and will wake up in the middle of the night crying, saying there is a scary shark in his bed. He also refuses to use the potty because he says there are fish in there.

I can not wait to see how Luke turns out. I know he will be very charismatic, but I just can't quite picture him as an 8, 15, or 30 year old. He's been my tough kid from day one, and I wonder if he will always fill that role. He's also my super loving kid who asks for hugs and smooches all the time. Only time will tell - and I know everyday will be an adventure with him.

Love you Lukey!

p.s. this picture is from his birthday celebration. He just had to have it be a backyardigans/Halloween party.