Hutchison - Party of Five

Back to School

2011-09-10T22:25:00.000-07:00

September is already here. We are getting into the swing of school. I am so disappointed I left my camera at Hovander Park a few weeks ago. Luckily I still have my phone to capture some first day of school photos.

Amara is in Kindergarden at Isom. I was so excited when we found out Mrs. Anker is her teacher. Kai had her and she has a way of keeping a class full of 5 year olds attention. She does a lot of little songs and rhymes to keep learning fun. Amara loves it and has 3 other little girls in her class who she knows a little and look forward to her developing friendships with them. I look forward to hearing stories about her day. I will be volunteering in her class a few times a month.

Brielle is going to My First School and has Teacher Leslie. She is an amazing teacher who has lots of patience, experience and faith. The rocking horse that fits 3 people is usually where Brie is when I get there to pick her up. She has show and tell each day and loves to put it in her backpack and hang it on her hook. Our next door neighbor Sam is going too, so me and his mom, Joy, are taking turns driving. Sam and Brielle spend a lot of time together and we hoped the two of them wouldn't goof off to much. So far so good!

I tried several times to get Kai to pose for the camera, or I mean just look at the camera. He is not into it! Hopefully if I don't push it he'll get over it soon. This is about the best I could get on one of his first days waiting for the bus. He is so good with the neighbor baby, sweet little Libby.

Kai is blessed to have Mrs. VanDiest for 2nd grade. He has a lot of kids in his class from last year. But he also loves to meet new friends too. His teacher last year said "Kai is so kind to everyone." Yah, that make me proud. He is doing well in school and even gets a little disappointed if he get a satisfactory S and not an S+. I told him, "Everything doesn't have to be perfect, just try your best." He is learning to respect, be responsible and to stay focused.

We had such a fun summer, September has been beautiful too. I hope now that there is more of a schedule that I can have a little more time to myself. I want to walk, get organized, and do more etsy items. I will post some summer pictures and etsy stuff on here soon.

Amara is 5!

2011-07-09T22:30:00.000-07:00

Amara had her birthday a few weeks ago. She wanted a strawberry shortcake theme party and wanted to invite LOTS of people. The list of about 30 was narrowed down to about 7 or 8 little girls. What fun they had painting nails, hitting the pinata and eating cake.

Amara is starting Kindergarden this year. She is excited and ready, she likes to pretend to read and write her letters.

Favorite Things:

Dress Up (notice how she has her healed princess shoes

on with her swim suit)

Memory, and she is good at it, she beats me now!!

Being in the Water

Painting, Coloring, any kind of arts and crafts

Being a teacher or helper

Ready to go the her friend Audrey's to swim

When we sang happy birthday

Last year

When she was 3!

Almost sleeping on the Merry go round summer '08

Her 1st Birthday

Baby Amara Karen

2011-05-13T20:43:00.000-07:00

The Birthday Girl, Brielle, turned 3!

Love this one Jamie took of Grandpa Scott

& the girls

SASSY!

and so sweet

Playing at Bender Park, she loves the swings,

slide, monkey bars and all the kids to play with at

the park.

Amara noticed right away this flower I planted

and she took time to smell it.

SISTERS

Baseball Fun!

2011-04-16T14:36:00.000-07:00

APRIL 2011

For Spring break we went down to Edmonds and stayed at Rob's Dad's house and spent some time in Seattle. We went to the Aquarium, Science Center, and Childrens Museum. We all had so much fun. I loved just being with the family and not having to cook is always a bonus. Rob's sister Audrey met us and spent the day with us at the Museum on the first day. It was fun to get to see her too.

Kai's favorite was the outdoor water exhibit at the science center and the star wars exhibit at the science center. I am NOT a star wars person. But I did try to act interested for Kai, but it was tough for me to fake it. ; ) I guess it is something you have a real passion for or don't.

Amara's favorite were the tarantulas at the science center. I guess she isn't scare of spiders. She also liked the imagination studio at the museum where the kids painted and played with clay.

Brielle loved the play Taco Time restaurant at the museum. It was set up all cute with tables, a cash register and play food. She also liked watching the scuba diver at the aquarium.

Rob and I both liked watching the Hubble Space Telescope movie in the Imax theater at the science center. Atleast we can agree on something. ; )

2011-03-25T20:59:00.000-07:00

Memories of My Mom

10 years ago today my wonderful mom passed away SO suddenly and unexpected. So much has happened in the past decade. Rob and I got married less than 3 months after she died. It was so hard. Mom helped me pick out flowers for the arch a bouquets just a couple weeks before she died. Our wedding and the first years of our marrriage were tough. Such a loss I had suffered and just didn't know what to do with my sadness and hurt. Now we are blessed with 3 beautiful children . As much as I wish for my mom to be here I have accepted that she is gone. Time does heal, but I will always miss her. I went through some old photo albums today, it felt good to do.

At a market in Mexico

H St. Rd Deck eating a popcicle

I think this was Natasha's baptism day

Michele's 7th birthday party at Grandma Dorothys

"Hold me Hold me" I would say to my mom,

she held me at 8 months pregnant.

I think this is Christmas of 1978

Mom & Michele

Vintage Family

Jeremy, Jill, Grandma Alma & Mom in Grandma &

Grandpas back yard

Me, Michele, Mom and Tasha at

Michele & Vance's wedding

Brielle, Amara & I today holding the beautiful

flowers that were sent to me in honor of my Mom

2011-03-03T16:05:00.000-08:00

I Just Opened a Shop on Etsy!!

Here are some examples of some of my winter crafting creations. It's been a lot of fun making them. I have a 15 percent off coupon good through March 5th.

Here are a few things I've made

To see more you can google Lesha625 and that will get you to my Etsy shop. Check out some of the other shops too, there is a huge variety of original cool vintage and handmade items.

2011-01-12T21:54:00.000-08:00

Faith

Hope

Unconditional Love

One year ago yesterday I got a phone call from my friend, Cortnae, my sisters' sister in law. She told me Case, my nephew, was in the hospital, something was wrong, he wasn't breathing well. I knew Tasha would call and let me know what was going on. I knew Tasha & Reese would want to be with him. I knew Tasha would want to hold him while he was looked at by the doctors and nurses. It could be asthma or a terrible virus I thought. As time passed my mind was racing and my body tensed up, my stomach hurt. A couple hours passed. Natasha did not call. I tried her, no answer, I figured there wasn't service in the hospital. Me and Michele talked and were both worried, but wanted to be hopeful too. I talked to Lindy and Cortnae. No one knew anything. What could be happening? Rob was home, he hugged me and told me I should go to Coronado, he'd be able to take off work and be home with the kids. I said, let's just wait a little longer, maybe she'll call soon. I had a huge lump in my throat. I wanted to go to my loving, faithful Grandma's house.I went there very discouraged. She kept saying not to give up hope. My uncle Jeremy was there and we talked and tried to analyze the situation and weren't getting anywhere. Then the 3 of us prayed for Case and his Mommy Daddy and big brother and the caretakers in the hospital. Before I left I told them I was going to try get a flight to California that evening. Later that afternoon Rob and I headed to Seatac. I was on my phone with friends and family on the way. Still no news. Then in Marysville I got a call from Laura, Reese's mom, she cried, "Case is gone." Those words were heartwrenching, I wanted to scream, my hope was gone at the time. All these feeling I felt I know were millions of times stronger for my sister. My heart broke for her, Reese and Lane. Rob and I cried as we drove down I-5 in the rain. We said a little prayer. I cried on the plane, I felt like this could not be real, but yet I knew it was. Reese picked me up at the airport. I hugged him. My heart went out to him. I just wanted him to know that no one deserves this. He brought me to their place for the first time. By the front door was Cases stroller. Inside Natasha wept desperately on the couch. I ran to hug her and cry with her and tell her I love her. Her arms were empty, her heart was broken. The next morning I walked through the hallway and saw a lamp was on in Cases room. I walked in his beautiful nursery that was filled with all things Natasha made. So much thought,love and time was put into preparing this nursery for little Case. I looked in the corner and there was Tasha on the chair where she would usually feed Case.......she was reading her bible. To think that Natasha, the one whose loss was thousands......millions of time more drastic than mine reminded me where to go. Her faith is amazing. Here is their 2010 family Christmas card and the announcement of their miracle Estelle Hope.

In 2009 the Joy came easier for Tasha, Reese & Lane than it does now. I know they will always endure pain from Cases death and they will love him unconditionally forever. I think even though Estelle doesn't get to meet Case here, she will know him and love him through his legacy hear on earth. A mother daughter bond is amazing and I know she will want to hear all about her brother, Case William.

I was reading my sister Michele's blog last night. She talked about living and loving. She is such a compassionate faithful person and we are so blessed to have her for a sister. From the time we were little girls she has a nice way of getting me out of sassy moods by just listening and talking. Her and Natasha's blogs are from their hearts and so real.

Michele's is:moseslakejansen4.blogspot.com

Natasha's is:bloomwhereyouareplantedca.blogspot.com

Wishing you a happy healthy 2011 filled with faith, hope and unconditional love.

2010-12-22T21:56:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from the Hutchisons

Gettin' Crafty makes me Happy!

I love to craft and be creative. This is a frame that I painted white, mod podged newspaper Christmas song sheets (an insert from the Lynden Tribune), that was the most time consuming part. Then I put a red printed background paper behind the glass frame. I wanted to embellish it with something. I went to Michaels and got a sheet of green adhesive felt, cut a tree shape out, and added rhinestones for ornaments and a star treetopper. The last thing I thought I needed was a tree trunk. I walked out my front door and tore a little piece of twig off one of my trees and glued it on. I love the way it turned out and it was so much fun to do. I am not sure if I will give this for a gift or keep it for myself.

I love to decorate my house in my spare time, paint, and be creative. I have so many ideas in my head, but finding the uninterrupted time isn't always easy. Often I stay up after the kids go to bed and Rob is on his stretch of nights. Or I do crafty stuff with my kids. I have learned to just have fun even if things don't turn out exactly how I may have expected.

This was our gingerbread house.

Amara sad, Kai acting crazy, and Brielle not too sure

It did not turn out quite how we expected

BUT, we had fun with it. I frosted it and then let the kids put the candy on while I held it up. I took my hands off and it fell. Amara was really sad. But I told her, it's alright. Next year we'll do a premade one or do the butterscotch gingerbread cookies I usually do (and they taste much better). I just laughed and said "Oh shucks" The kids had fun eating it.

Crafty Little Lady

Amara is quite the crafty little lady. She painting this ceramic tree by herself and glued all the ornaments on it. My Grandma Dorothy had one like this when I was a kid and I remember thinking it was so neat how it had a little light inside that showed off all the colored little lights. Kinda like a light bright. So when I saw this at Kmart on sale for $12, I thought it would be the perfect project for Amara. She has also been coloring little chipboard ornaments. I got a pack at Michaels. I LOVE that store. It gets my creative juices flowing.

I love having a fireplace and adding some festive decor is so fun. The stocking holders Rob bought, I still need to put pictures of the kids in the frames. The candles I got at Michaels and the beaded garland too. The joy garland I made with ribbon, chipboard, background paper, and embossed stamps. It was missing something. I ran across some coffee filter crafts ideas on a blog. I made this flower from filters, the leaves are felt and the center is little pom pom balls.

And another garland.....

This one I made a few years back. Some funky fibers, felt leaves, paper poinsettias, ribbon and twine.

I have been inspired by my sisters and other bloggers to show off some of my creating on my blog. I hope to do more in the coming new year.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas. Thank you to all of you for the Christmas cards. We love getting them in the mail and seeing pictures of kids and families changing each year.

2010-11-16T17:41:00.000-08:00

The newest addition to the family, sweet baby girl Estelle Hope was born on November 13 and weighed 8 pounds 14 ounces, 21 1/2 inches long. Everything went well. Tasha said it was her easiest labor and is doing well besides being tired. I love cuddling with her. She is a true blessing from above. I am missing Rob and the kids, but am truelly thankful to Rob for his encouragement and support to come down here. Lane and Reese are so proud and happy to have her home. Estelle has an amazing mom to care for her and a Daddy and brother to protect her. I am waiting for a silly nickname to come from one of them, but not yet.

I've gotten to spend some time playing with Lane. We went for a walk on the beach looking for treasures and looked for baseballs by a field. I got to see his school and his classroom so that was fun. He has done some magic tricks and he got me on the Wii for the first time in my life and we've played some board games. He gave up his bed for me and he's on the floor next to me. Reese isn't working for awhile so he's been taking Lane to and from school. I feel very at home here and love spending time with them.

2010-09-26T22:47:00.001-07:00

Kai turned 7!

Dad cutting the cake

First Grade picture

The Party! I think Rob told them to yell GO HUSKIES!

Audrey, Adam & the kids

Celebrating at Red Robin with Grandma & Grandpa

Kai had his golden birthday on October 7. We had a birthday party with friends, a couple neighbor kids and Rob's brother and sister came up for it too. We had a big group, but the weather was nice so we could be outside. We had DQ icecream cake that said exactly what Kai wanted it to, "Rock On Kai's 7!" and a picture of an electric guitar. We played bingo and enjoyed the fall weather. Kai had a great time. It was fun to get to meet some of the boys in his class and some of the parents too.

I love watching Kai growing as a kid. He is so sweet, thankful, smart and goofy! I miss him being gone 5 full days a week, but I know first grade is so good for him. He gets to exercise his brain I always tell him. He is doing so well in reading, writing and Math. He even does his math homework on the bus! His teacher told me he is advanced in his reading and I was pleasantly surprised. He brought home 2 student of the day certificates. One was for being kind to others and the other was for reading with expression. He says he doesn't like being in his class because he only gets to move his fingers! I had to laugh. He is so energetic, always has and probably always will be. He doesn't even seem tired from school like I would have expected. His favorite part about school is the marathon club. On nice days at recess he gets to run on a track at recess. If he runs 20 miles by November 19 he gets to run the last 1.62 miles of the marathon under the lights on the highschool track and he will receive a medal! He is intrigued by trophies and medals so I am cheering him on!

2010-06-15T17:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Amara Karen Hutchison!

Today Amara turned 4 years old. The years have flown by too fast. I remember slow clearly the day I had her. My labor went so well and when she came out I grabbed her so fast. The doctor said that it was the fasted grab she'd ever seen. As I held "the Baby" tightly the doctor said, "do you want to know what it is? " I said "OH, ya!!" She said, "It's a girl!" I was so happy, but really it didn't matter what I had I was just happy to have a healthy baby. As I looked at her closely I saw red dots on the corners of her eyes. I mentioned it to the nurse and she said, some babies are born with those, they are called angel kisses. They will fade in time. I thought that was ironic since she was named after my mom, Karen.

Now that she is 4 her personality is really blooming. Amara is very sweet, kind, thankful, helpful, creative, & thoughtful. She does have her yelling spells. We are working on that. Her and Kai have their fights, but so far she is really sweet to Brielle.

We had her party on Saturday. The sun was shining and we barbequed. Amara got a lots of Barbie stuff and her first Ken doll. Those Kens always crack me up. Surfer Ken is a hottie. ; ) She got some puzzles and dresses too and a fun princess chair. She is starting to dress up, she loves to color, play outside, paint, be read to, and her favorite show it Max and Ruby. Her cake was fun to make, she has such a sweet tooth. She was all lickin' the frosting any chance she got. I couldn't find any princess candies to put on top so I took a picture of her posing with a feather boa (sp?) and tiara pretending to be a princess and put it on her cake with crown candle.

Today Lane & Tasha made it to town. Amara has been having fun playing with the boys and our neighbor Abby.

2010-06-05T22:44:00.000-07:00

What I've been up to...............

Cute timer shot, even Daisy the dog got in it.

We had a summertime favorite things party at Tana's house yesterday. Everyone brought ten $5 summery gifts, all the same. I brought bright colored nail polish and a sugar foot scrub for each of the girls. I came home with lots of fun stuff. A beach towel, matted photo by Jamie, makeup bag, beautiful flowers, ice tea carafe, flower citronela candle, just to name a few. It's kinda like going shopping with friends, but no decisions to make and we all like the same kind of stuff. It was fun seeing all the girls and having some "Lady" time. Tana's a great hostess!

Melanie and I drove together and we were laughing because she said, "So, what have you been doing? " It is weird because I am so busy, but so often when people ask I don't even know what to tell them. I am home quite a bit since Brielle still naps. Rob and I like to get the kids to bed by 8 so they get enough sleep and we still have some time before we go to sleep. We like to watch Modern Family, The Office, and Forensic files type shows. Sometimes we play Scategorries. Rob and I get a little competitive. We'll let the winner of the game pick what show we watch. Last time I had the great idea loser gets up with the kids in the morning, I lost. Dang. Rob and I do date nights every week or two, usually dinner. It is so nice of his Mom and Denny to come out. We went to Las Vegas last month and they stayed with the kids. SO fun. We have not had a whole weekend together without kids, ever. Went to a show, walked around, played a little black jack and slots, went to some great restaurants and got SUN.

Borat look alike, he talked just like him,

we had to get a picture!

Anyway, I break up quite a few fights, give time outs and chase kids. I am always trying to figure out what to deal with and what to let go as far as what the kids do and in my life too. I think I am going to do a summer sheet of rules and think of a job or two for Kai and Amara. It won't be too much, but just enough to make my summer a little easier and so they know more what is expected. I'd love it if anyone has any good ideas. I try my best to be in control of my kids, without being controling. To have organization of the house without being obsessive about it. And to have time with Rob, time to myself & with friends a family.

Brielle running from me

I answer ALOT of kid questions. Like, Amara asked today, "What if Santa dies, then will we still get presents?" I told her, maybe he has a grandson that take over. Kai asked "Are there more english or spanish people in the world?" I guess he thinks we are english since we talk English. I told him I did not know. Some things I have the answer to and some I don't. Brielle doesn't ask questions yet, but does have an opinion of her own and lets me know! I kiss a lot of owies. The other day Brielle got a little scratch. I kissed her and said, "Poor Baby" she looks and me and said, "I not baby." Me and Rob looked at eachother and said, "Did she just say that?" She did. It was really funny because I think that is her first full sentence she

has ever spoke.

It is hard to get a good picure of them! I try!

I like the house to be clean and it bugs me to get behind on stuff. I am teaching the kids to help with some stuff. Amara takes out the recycling, Kai empties the dishwasher sometimes. I do need to get creative and try to make it fun for them so they want to do it. I set a timer for Kai to empty the dishwasher and then the next time he tries to beat his time. Things aren't put away exactly how I want them to be, but that's OK. I love to organize and schedule for things. I usually do shopping for the week on Mondays or Tuesdays. And sometimes on that day I go to a fun store too. A day for laundry each week, a day for other cleaning. It's crazy how fast time can fill up. I love to decorate and do crafty things. Amara was still in her toddler bed up until a week ago. I went to a thrift store and bought a twin bed. She wanted me to paint it pink. Rob went and got a new mattress I got some cute sheets and comforter and here it is. She loves it!

BEFORE

AFTER

We go for walks to the park a lot. The kids play outside and I love planting flowers and gardening. I play with my kids and act goofy with them. I love taking pictures of them and putting them in frames, on my blog and facebook too. I do playdates with friends. We have an awesome neighborhood. The kids all play together and it is fun for Rob and I to socialize with everyone too.

It seems like there is always a YMCA sport, birthday party, field trip, church activity, class party, doctor or dentist appointments, or something to go to. Kai and Amara just got done with swimming lessons. Now it is field trips and end of year school concerts. I really want our kids to be involved in activities that are good for them. I love watching them and getting to meet parents, kids and teachers. My life kind of revolves around the kids. As challenging and tiring this can be, I love it. I know I won't get these years back.

Roller skating-AWESOME!

Field trip to LHS Barn

Isom Kindergarden Concert

Swimming Lessons @ the YMCA

Farmers Day Parade, Kai was excited to get

to cruise around in the Gator.

A bath in the mudroom.

2010-06-03T22:19:00.000-07:00

Just For A Good Laugh!

Elmo and the Girls!

2010-05-17T06:10:00.000-07:00

Brielle Irene turned 2 yesterday!

The last 2 years have flown by. Brielle has been the best surprise our family has ever had. We had our party here on Saturday. The weather was perfect and we could be outside for it. Grandma Linda and Papa Dee brought balloons and they found a cute rubber duck one. We had a rubber duck on her cake. Kai, Amara & I frosted it while she was taking a nap. When she woke up she spotted it on the counter and was so excited to see it. She loves duckies and says "Quack Quack" in a funny little voice. She got some fun new summer toys and cute clothes.

I think of my sister Natasha so much. She is pregnant and due in November. There are so many adjustments with Reese being in the Navy. They need lots of prayers from everyone. Her and Lane get to come up for a couple months this summer. It will be so good having them here. As I post this I am so thankful to have Brielle and my family here. I just can't help but think of Natasha missing her baby Case, but yet so happy to be pregnant again. Children are such a blessing!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T16:20:00.000-07:00

This morning the first thing Kai said to me and Amara was, "Did the Easter Bunny come?" I was feeling groggy and hadn't had my coffee, so I just said "hmmm, I don't know." Next thing I saw him and Amara looking out the window and there was a piece of Trash in the weeds down by the creek. He was telling Amara he thought it was an Easter egg. I had to think fast. I felt like a horrible mom. Then I told myself, no I tell them the true meaning of Easter, so I shouldn't feel bad, but I still did. I woke up Rob and told him what was going on. We decided to refill the eggs Grandma and Grandpa gave them (thank you Denny and Linda!) and hide them outside when the the kids weren't looking. The kids were so sweet. Not mad, just a little disappointed. So, after church Rob and I said "Maybe the Easter Bunny came." The kids were so excited when they saw the eggs. I said we should remember to thank God for everything he has given us!

Family Pictures

2010-03-15T21:53:00.000-07:00

Natasha, Reese & Lane came up to Lynden for Reeses brothers wedding. Michele and her family came up too. It was great to spend time with them. There is just something about sisters, you know eachother SO well and it is so nice just to get to be together. My kids always get so excited to spend time with their cousins too. Michele took these pictures, she does such a great job and I am happy with them. Thank you for taking the time to do these, Michele and for reminding me to put them on my blog.

Natasha, Reese & Lane are living their lives and doing their normal stuff for the most part. But, I know it must be exhausting for them. To have such a strong sadness inside, but to know they need to keep going. They picked out the gravestone today. They also went to the John Deere store to get two "Case" brand toy tractors. One for Case's grave and one for Lane to hang onto. I think that is so sweet.

Enjoying My family

2010-02-23T21:07:00.000-08:00

Me, Natasha, Lissa & Michele

This winter has definitely had it's happy time and its sad times. I am still thinking of Tasha, Reese and Lane so much. Natasha, Michele and Lissa and I went shopping in Bellevue a couple weekends ago. It was great spending time with them. At such a sad time I want to be with Natasha. She is an amazing person. She is dealing with Cases death it seems in a healthy way and that makes me happy. I love each of these girls SO much. I joked and said we need to keep doing these shopping trips even if one of us is in a wheelchair. We can all take care of eachother, I know that.

Robert "Kai" - 6

Kai has had basketball the last couple months. He seems to like it. I need to be better about encouraging him and geting him pumped up before his games. So, one day it was just me and him going to his game. I said, "Look at the hoop before you shoot. Don't be scared of the other kids, and try to make a lot of baskets today." Well, he had his best game, made 7 baskets and wow was he happy. In this picture he is the one in the middle of the line.

Kai's weird side. He cracks me up! He took this of himself.

I found this when I was checking out this montessori mom website. What you do is fill out a short quiz about your child and then it tells you their strong talents supposedly. I do see truth to it. Here is the link, if you want to try it.

http://www.montessorimom.com/what-your-childs-talent/

Amara Karen - 3 1/2

Amara is likes to pose!

Amara was in the bathroom for awhile. Hmm, what is she doing? She was mixing water in the chocolate ovaltine and eating it. Doesn's she look guilty here? Amara did a gymnastics at the YMCA and loved it. This picture she was practicing her scoops at home. Amara has a great imagination. She now makes up stories like about her being flushed down the toilet landing in a park. She is so much fun.

Brielle Irene - 1 1/2

She's got Amara's boots on here. She loves to put on shoes.

Brielle is very active. She climbs and loves to be outside. She loves her dolls and books too. She reminds me a lot of Kai when Kai was her age. I took the montessori mom quiz for her (but she's kinda young for it). But I answered the questions the best I could and she ended up getting the same as Kai, Adventurous. And she sure is.

Watching the kids have fun together makes me so happy and blessed.

Moments I want to Remember Forever

2010-01-24T16:43:00.000-08:00

I cherish pictures so much, I was happy to find this while scrolling through my camera, it was taken at Thanksgiving. Case was so sweet, perfect. Their family was and is still beautiful, but their hearts are broken right now. I keep saying why did this happen to my sister's baby? SIDS is responsible for about 50 deaths per 100,000 births in the U.S. I have to remember that their is not always an answer to everything. I know I probably drove my mom crazy when I was a kid. WHY? WHY? WHY? I have always needed to know the answer and see for myself. All the whys and unanswered questions will drive me crazy. I just need to have faith and be content with not having an answer to everything right when I want it. I have learned that in a time like this it is right to be sad. It makes me sad to see myself moving on in this grieving process while Tasha and family are way behind me. But I just need to be a shoulder to cry on and an open ear. Me and Tasha do the IChat on the computer, I will miss seeing that little man on her lap. I know she misses holding him.

Every night I put Brielle to bed she goes in her crib and we push her teddy bears tummy and it says, "Now I lay me down to sleep I pray the Lord my soul to keep may angels watch me through the night until I wake in the morning light, Amen" The day Case died I went to California to be with Tasha and her family. Thank you to Rob for holding down the fort and all the help offered by others. Now that I am home I will remember to pray for them each time I put Brielle to bed. I feel some peace knowing that Tasha has faith in God. This is what I saw when I went into Cases nursery that was put together with so much love.

A quilt Tasha made for Case and framed on his wall.

This picture was taken just a day or two after Case died. Tasha spent time in his room reading her bible in the chair she fed him in. We both agreed it was a peaceful place.

Halloween Fun And More!

2009-10-25T22:01:00.000-07:00

We had some friends over for Halloween and did A LOT of trick

or treating. Kai got a full bucket and Amara and Brielle got a lot

too. I've been into Brielle's bucket way too much. I discovered

last night that Almond Joys are delicious and I ate all of the kids.

I found this recipe on another blog. It looks good, I might have

to try it. Knowing me it would just be more convenient to grab

one at the store, but maybe it would be a good Christmas goodie.

Almost Almond Joy Bars

5 oz sweetened condensed milk
1 stick butter (1/2 cup) - real butter (softened)
1 tsp vanilla Extract
2 cups powdered Sugar
1 - 14 oz bag sweetened flaked Coconut
24 oz milk chocolate almond bark or milk chocolate chips
1 cup whole dry roasted almonds.
Blend the sweetened condensed milk, butter and vanilla extract. Add the powdered sugar a little at a time, stirring until smooth. Stir in the coconut, the mixture should be firm. Pat firmly into a 9 x 13 x 2 inch pan. Chill in the fridge until firm. (we put ours in the freezer). While the mixture chills go ahead and dry roast the almonds. We had a bunch of almonds but they need to be roasted.

Roasted Almonds - Spread in an un greased baking pan. Place in 350ºF oven and bake 10 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant; stir once or twice to ensure even browning. Note that almonds will continue to roast slightly after removing from oven.

In a double boiler over hot, not boiling water, melt the chocolate chips or milk chocolate almond bark, stirring often. This can also be done in the microwave. (use the defrostsetting on the microwave and melt the chocolate in 3 minute intervals.) Remove coconut mixture from the refrigerator/freezer and cut into 1 x 2 inch bars. Put 2 whole almonds on top of each bar. Use a fork to dip each bar into the melted chocolate mixture. Tap fork gently against the side of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate. Lay bars on waxed paper after dipping until firm. You

can also place them into the refrigerator as well.

Brielle - 17 months

Brielle likes to rock her babies, kiss, cuddle and feed them. I always have to laugh to myself when she gets mad and throws the doll to the ground.

She reminds of me Kai . She is active, loves to climb and be outside. Her new thing is getting the step stool and going around to all the light switches and turning them off and on. She is a little sweetie and already 17 months!

Kai 6 years old and in Kindergarden

Kai started Kindergarden and goes eagerly each day. It has been great for him and the whole family. Being old for his grade he was ready. He loves to socialize and have a place to go each day. He has always been great with numbers and has become really interested in letters and sounds lately. I helped out in his class last week for a harvest party, another mom and I did a pumpkin bowling game for them. It was fun to meet all his classmates.

He also played soccer this fall. I have to admit I wasn't looking forward to rainy days at bender, but we only had a couple bad days. Kai really enjoyed being goallie and got really excited when he made goals.

First day of school, kind of an excited nervous smile. I do those too. ; )

Kai's Bday party (I am happy he let Amara in the photo!)

Sassy & Sweet!!

Amara started preschool and gymnastics. I will post some gymnastics pictures soon.She is always so excited to go to both. She loves to color, paint, play zingo, dress-up and be goofy. These cowboy boots she got from Grandma and Grandpa for her birthday. She is loving them. I think she especially likes the heel on them and the comments she gets on them. She is really into telling stories and as she talks she kinda smacks her lips and uses a lot of expression.

Amara's First Day of Preschool

Fun & the lake and look who decided to walk!

2009-07-25T21:12:00.000-07:00

Kai, Briggs, Brie, Ashlynn, Amara & Ty

Aunt Caroline & Brie

Ashlynn is 7 and is so sweet to Amara

Ty & Briggs having fun-Ty is so brave for being just 3!

Me and Rob snuck in for a shot.

We went to the Lake (Cavanaugh) on Friday. Aunt Caroline Uncle Larry, Brian & Kate their kids came up from California. It was great to get to visit with them. Also, Brielle did a lot of walking their. She was actually turning corners, falling and getting up again. I was happy I got a mini video of her in action.

Some of the things we've been up to

2009-07-23T22:23:00.000-07:00

Ben & Lindy's Wedding

On July 11th Ben & Lindy got married at a beautiful location near Birch Bay. I got to be in the wedding and Amara & Brie were flower girls. Everything was beautiful! I wish I had a picture of her and Ben. The photographer took some great ones, but I tried to put them on my blog and it didn't work. But, here are a few I got and Jamie took the family picture. She just had to do a little editing because the way Brie was sitting on me, it pulled my dress down and my bra was totally showing. Thanks, Jamie, for your editing!

A family photo

Me, Jamie, Amy, Lindy & Mel

I LOVED these arrangements.

Amara is a pro flower girl! Two weddings under her belt

and one scheduled for next summer already. : )

Babo and Brie (sorry, Rob, I shared your childhood nick name)

My Dad was in his element at the barbecue

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A visit from the Hutchisons

Rob's Great Grandpa, his Dad and Dad's wife came up for a visit a couple weeks ago. Kai's first name is actually Robert, he is named after all of the men in this picture. We enjoyed the sun and relaxed at our place with them. It is alway good to see them.

Robert 1, Robert 2, Robert 3 & Robert 4

Brielle looks cozy!

Amara LOVES her Grandma T

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Raspberry Festival

Every year during raspberry season downtown Lynden streets close down for a

weekend for basketball tournaments and a festival of fun. We walked down one night

for dinner, desert and just something to do with the kids.

Kai & Amara were excited to sit in the volkswagon

van that had a set up in the back to make snow cone.

Kai likes rock climbing!

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Lake Cavanaugh

Grandpa Denny teaching Kai how to barbecue

Amara wasn't into wearing a life jacket or being in

the water unless she was naked.

2009-07-02T23:24:00.000-07:00

Here I am, stuck in the middle. ; ) Just kidding, I love my sisters! This was taken in Leavenworth a couple weeks ago. It is always SO much fun to see them.

I Guess I'm Forever Cool

2009-07-02T22:24:00.000-07:00

I was talking to a family friend today, Natasha Douma, and she asked if I knew about a wine that is sold at Target called Middle Sister. She said we should have a glass together sometime, she's a middle sister. I was curious to see what this stuff was all about. I googled it and I was laughing to myself. Their are six different wines, Drama Queen, Rebel Red, Wicked White, Mischief Maker, Forever Cool, and Smarty Pants. I had to laugh to myself. There is also a quiz on their website that tells you which of the wines best describes you. I took it and turned out to be the Forever Cool middle sister, it's a merlot. Then I talked to Rob and told him of these "fine" middle sister wines. He said, those are all you. I said I know, but the one that best describes me is Forever Cool.

2009-07-02T22:03:00.000-07:00

http://www.middlesisterwines.com

2009-06-25T21:23:00.000-07:00

We are having such a fun filled summer. My sister, Natasha, and her 41/2 year old, Lane, came up from California and stayed with us. It was SO nice having her here. I felt kinda bad for her because when she was helping me out a lot. She is due to have a baby in August. Our house wasn't the most relaxing atmosphere with 4 kids 5 and under (including Lane), but the kids had fun and I enjoyed them both being here.

We had Amara's third bday party at our house during their time here. Amara got quite the variety of things, cute clothes, dolls, lipstick (chapstick), a pink guitar and even some red cowgirl boots. She loved having friends and family here for a barbeque, and of course enjoyed her cake. Anyone who knows Amara know she loves her treats. She picked devils food cake and wanted a pink guitar on it.

Last weekend our family (Dad, brothers, Michele, Vance and kids, Tasha and Lane) went to Plain near Leavenworth. This is our third year renting a huge cabin that comfortably sleeps all of us. We just hang out by the campfire, barbeque, and get to spend time together. The cousins have a blast together and time with my siblings is always filled with laughs. It is not very often it works out for the five of us brothers and sisters to get together with our husbands. This year Rob had to work so couldn't come. He was happy to go golfing on his day off as a father's day gift from me and the kids. He also had a quiet house when he got home from work. ; ) As I am going through my pictures I wish I had one of all the cousins together. Shoot! Well their is always next year. My sister, Michele, and Vance are also expecting. It is their third and will be their first girl. It is weird the new baby stage is over for me. We are done. Now I can enjoy being an aunt and holding theirs. Here is a picture of Michele and Natasha both with buns in the oven and glowing. They both are such good moms and those babies in their tummies are blessed already to have them.

We're Back From Kauai

2009-06-03T23:05:00.000-07:00

Here we are at Lydgate beach on Memorial Day

Brielle loved the sand. Amara was not so sure about

the loud waves. They are both very social and usually

is just happy being around people.

I can't believe I did not get a picture of Chuck and Jamie.

This is a candid shot and as you can see she was a hot bride. ; )

I can't wait to see the pictures Sara (photographer) took.

Brielle just went with the flow and only fell in the pool twice!

Kai loves the water more than he ever has. He did

fall on the slippery waterslide steps and got a good cut.

He got to have his first ambulance ride, 7 stitches. A couple hours

at the hospital was a little rough for him, but he was happy as can

be after he got his stitches.

We had our first big family trip and went to Kauai for 10 days. We went for Chuck and Jamie's wedding and a family getaway. I was the maid of honor, Kai a ring bearer and Amara a flower girl. We stayed at an awesome resort with Ben, Lindy & Ryker. We didn't even feel like we needed to leave the resort to have fun. We were right on the beach and there was a pool with waterslides. Of course we went for drives and to the beach a couple of times. It is a beautiful place! It rained the most on the afternoon of the wedding and I felt bad for Jamie and Chuck because they had hoped to get married at tunnels beach. Because of the downpoor they got married at their honeymoon cottage. They are such a happy and in love couple that their wedding was beautiful because their spirits were still high despite the weather. I did get to relax some and it was just great to be with Rob, the kids and friends.

Happy First Birthday, Brielle!

2009-05-16T22:28:00.000-07:00

I can't believe our baby is already one year old. I remember one year ago so clearly. Going to Kai's tball, eating at Dairy Queen and feeling yucky after. Everyone went to bed and I kept having contractions closer together and more painful. Woke up Rob and called my sister Natasha at about 1 or 2 am and had Brielle about 10 minutes after I got in my room at the hospital. What a an exhausting wonderful day that was.

It is so amazing how fast babies grow. Brielle is doing well, not walking yet, but she can crawl fast! We had a bday party for her today at our house. She loved the cake and icecream. Here is a picture of Brie & Sam who lives next door. He just turned one too! His big sister, Abby claims he's in love with Brie. :) And their is one of Amara singing to Brielle with Dad because she was sad she missed it the first time.

Happy Mom's Day!

2009-05-10T21:52:00.000-07:00

I had a fun day today, but not at all relaxing! That is alright though, my kids won't be little forever. Kai has actually been a big helper lately. He can get Brielle's bottle and heat it up on his own. If Brie has a shit (oops, maybe I shouldn't say that) in her pants that I didn't realize until I get the diaper off he can get me more wipes. He even puts his clothes in the laundry without me asking him. Wonderful. I know there are some men that don't even do that. Hmmmm, I won't mention any names. I do thank Rob and his mom for encouraging Kai to help me since Rob isn't around. So I was up a lot last night with Brielle . She was histarical. Flailing, kicking, screaming in so much pain. I figured it must be her ears. So, I got up this morning, called the doctor and took her in. She has an infection in both ears. Poor baby. So after we went to the doctor I thought since it was such a beautiful day I would take the kids to cornwall park. Brielle loves to swing, Amara is loving the park this year, going down all the slides and Kai is into making friends. Today he befriended a oriental boy named Usher. I am excited to see who his friends are in school.

Then we came home and I got to see Rob for about 20 minutes between him waking up, showering, I went to go get Brie's prescription, I opened up my cards and Rob & the kids got me a gift certificate to the good old Lynden Sports World. I am excited to use it. Hug and kiss to Rob and he went to go have lunch with his mom before work. We went to Granma Alma's for some pie, came home, went for a walk before the rain came, made dinner and now here I am.

Yesterday me and the kids went to the cemetary to bring a flower to my mom's grave. I have not been there in probably 3 years. Amara has never been. I told Kai and Amara what we were going to Grandma Karens grave. When we got out of the car I asked who wanted to carry the flower. Of course I should have known better, that started a fight. Of course Kai & Amara both wanted to. I was not feeling up to breaking up a fight in the middle of the cemetary. Could you imagine? So, Kai, gave in and let Amara. I was glad because usually it is the other way around. So, as Amara is carrying it so nicely with both hands, she looked up and said confused and sad, "Oh, she isn't here yet, mommy, where is she?" When we got to the grave I pointed down and said she is in the ground because she died, she is in heaven. Then Kai started asking questions "What does she look like in there?" I said, "Her body is probably just bones now." he said "Can we dig it up to see her?" I said "No, only the worker can dig new graves." Can we go and play in that dirt over there mom?" (A new dug grave with lots of fresh dirt looks like a lot of fun to a five year old boy) I answered the best I could.

2009-05-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

Ladies Night Out!

We had Jamie's shower/bachelorette party on Saturday. The shower was at Lindy's and bachelorette party at the Tulalip Casino. This picture was taken later in the night so a lot of people had left. We watched a band called Rock Candy. It was kinda cheesy, but that made it all the more fun! We got some good people watching in, had a lot of laughs and danced to music from the past few decades. What a fun group of girls it was!

A Field of Dandelions - Spring is Here

2009-04-29T22:13:00.000-07:00

I am loving this weather! Today was fun filled. I went with Kai's preschool to the firestation. I love this age, it just cracks me up the little things 4 & 5 year olds get excited about. Wish I had brought my camera. Kai was sure to tell the firemen today that his Daddy is a firefighter (on the fireteam at the refinery) at work. He had to get a little braggin' in about Rob because he misses him so much. It is the turnaround right now. Rob has worked MANY hours and still has a few weeks to go. But, we have Jamie & Chuck's wedding in Hawaii to look forward to in a few weeks. WHOO HOOO! I have never been, and am looking forward to a vacation. I mean trip. A friend of mine said she calls family vacations trips and without kids they are a vacation. That is SO true. It will be fun just being together. I got outside and took a few pictures today. Amara is good about posing for the camera, I posted just a few of many. Natasha Douma babysits Kaitlyn who lives down the street and the kids like to play together . It has been fun getting to know Natasha and meet new people in the neighborhood. I LOVE the dandelions, even though they are weeds, they mean spring is here!

2009-04-11T23:55:00.000-07:00

We have moved! It was a little emotional for me to leave the home Rob & I moved into as a newly married couple and had 3 babies in. Well, I should correct myself. I had 3 babies at the hospital, not Rob, and then we brought them home to 884 Sunrise Dr. There were many memories made at this house. I had to post a picture of our old house, now we are less than a half a mile south on Ivy Street.

The move went well thanks to family and friends that helped. Here are a few recent pics of the kids..........

Winter '09 it's a full house!

2009-02-10T23:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I am new at this, but I have enjoyed looking at Michele and Natasha's so much, I just had to do one. I will get a family picture up soon, I hope, but for now here is a few recent of the kids.

This is my one and only winter to have the 3 kids home full time.Kai starts kindergarden next year! I am loving being a stay at home mom, I do have my rough days, but I have many priceless moments in the day to day life with my family.