Martin Family

February ALREADY?!

2012-01-31T20:30:00.000-08:00

Holy smokes wasn't it just October!!! How does this happen! Time of course is flying by and I have not stopped long enough to document and capture the joys of our life! One more thing I have failed at... Oh well we sure have been enjoying our time. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving, Birthdays, Anniversary, Christmas and the New Year has taken us by storm! We have found ourselves super busy with Work, callings, School, basketball, play groups and just enjoying each other.
I just can't believe it is February already! I know this happens to me every year but Feb hits me personally like a brick wall. I rather enjoy it because the special memories of this month force me to slow down and really really enjoy my kids and express our gratitude for their health and safety.
This last year has been a great one for our Little lady, We sincerely miss her Cardiologist in Arizona, we had been released for a year from him and when we moved to Utah and found a new one, after he checked her out released us for 2 YEARS! exciting and scary all at the same time... For those that don't remember or have never heard Morgyn's story you can read it here and here.
So I got emotional a little earlier this year than usual, the thought of missing our annual heart walk around Tempe town beach is really hard for me. I love the time we have spent remembering how blessed we are to have our little angel and walking in honor and with families who have had more of a struggle than we have. I will certainly miss that. We will still honor Go Red Day on Friday Feb 3, many of our friends near and far have committed to join us in supporting the American Heart Association in Morgyns honor.
Join us on Friday and GO RED FOR MORGYN!

Canyon Drive

2011-10-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

One of J's Co-workers was kind enough to show us around a bit, they took us for a drive up the canyon and WOW it was beautiful! It was a great way to spend Sunday afternoon! Basking in the beauty of the earth. we LOVED it! Thank you to Matt and his family for being our home town tour guides!

BYU vs Utah State Game

2011-10-05T08:04:00.000-07:00

We Were Gifted some tickets to the BYU game Last Friday and we jumped at the chance for a new fun night out. We had NO idea what a to do the BYU games are~ Next time we will leave even earlier! Anyway we had a great time and had perfect seats to see all the really great plays of the game. Josh enjoyed getting to see the game and I discovered that I actually like football! We took Ace with us and he enjoyed all the people watching and everyone thinking he was so cute. He got lots of attention.

Hanging out With Dad watching the game.

Saying Hi to Mom, I think I just missed the smile.

Family Dinner

2011-09-18T17:23:00.001-07:00

One of the pure joys of moving to Utah is being close to some seriously wonderful family. Today we got to have dinner at Jeff and Becki's home where we got to enjoy the wonderful talents of Grandpa Hone and Kenny Favero! I got a couple of videos of grandpa. He probably would die if he knew I was planning on posting them so I will work on that! Lotsa love! Happy Sunday everyone!

Disappearing Act

2011-09-07T23:07:00.000-07:00

So did you think we disappeared after our sweet baby boy was born???? Well we kind of did! We had a challenging and wonderful summer that allowed us to move to UTAH! So for those that didn't know we MOVED! It was fast and rather unexpected! We are settling in and I am going to go back and update all the fun things that I missed out on posting! My goodness our little Ace is already 4 months old so I will certainly post more pictures of him and whatever else I have pictures of! Send me a message if we missed letting you in on the news of why and where we moved!
Much love !

Hone Family Reunion 2011

2011-07-09T12:48:00.000-07:00

Josh Had a couple of Job interviews in Utah the First part of July so we decided to make the trip as a family, We got to attend the Hone Family Reunion at Cub River Ranch. It was wonderful to get to spend time with Kal, Miki and their family, as well as others from the Fabulous Hone Family, Jeff and Becki were gracious enough to let us stay with them for a few days as well. Here are the few pictures I took while we went to Preston to visit Grandma Hone's grave site.

Ace Blessing

2011-06-06T12:40:00.000-07:00

Some how once again I failed for the most part on the picture side of this! We had many friends and family come join us for this special occasion, Grandpa Hone made the trip as well as good friends Jared and Kim Scholz and all of my family in the area made it( R.Jay, Valerie). It was a super special day and I am so grateful for those that came. Ace Kalvan was blessed by his Father on June 6th in the Maricopa 2nd Ward.

Colin Turns 4!

2011-06-02T10:31:00.000-07:00

Oh Colin's Birthday was a bit of a disaster! We went to the movie with friends and family because that is what he wanted to do but getting there was a adventure, on the way we had a tire blow out so we had to sit on the side of the road and wait for onstar *thank goodness* to come and fix it because the spare had some super tricky contraption on it that even the tow truck driver had to fight with. BUT we still did our best o make is day super special and he sure thought it was!

What else happened in May 2011

2011-05-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

Taylor had Kindergarten Graduation just a week after Ace was born, My parents (Gma/Gpa Ward) made it in time for graduation and to spend some time with our new little man, we got to do all sorts of fun things, we stayed at the Az grand, went to the park and to all sorts of different graduations and activities, here are a slew of pictures from the end of May.

Here are some pictures of Ace during his first month!

Ace Kalvan Martin

2011-05-15T19:49:00.000-07:00

Our Handsome little Ace Kalvan joined our family just before 11am on Wednesday May 11th. He came a few weeks before his due date but we sure are glad he did, I will give details on that toward the bottom so that those who wish not to read the details don't have to.

Ace arrived at 10:53am the bruise you see on his forehead is because he came out face up but still didn't give mom too much trouble during delivery. He is a light weight at 5lbs and 8oz and 18.75inches. Despite his tiny measurements he is a huge spirit in our home. He is quiet and calm so far. The kids adore him, he sleeps wonderfully, he is eating pretty well gets a little exhausted by nursing but he is so perfect! We are so blessed to have him join our family!

The Details:
So here are the details again as fare warning you may want to skips these but for some reason I know other Mom's care and want to know :) So as many of you know at 32 weeks I was put on bed rest, I had started to dilate and had a positive Ffn test( google it) so they gave me steroid shots and sent me to bed in hopes I could make it to 36 weeks. Those weeks were a struggle but with the help of MANY friends from the community and ward we did make it! At 36 weeks we were given the OK, to have baby! I had been to the hospital twice in my 35th week for contractions and dilating and although I didn't actually go fully into labor my body sure was trying, I was at a 4 by the end of my 35th week but they never felt is necessary to keep me at the hospital during that time. I went to the Dr. Monday and was a 4 or 4.5. Monday while Sheri and Grandpa Hone were visiting I was having a lot of contractions but before we decided to head back into the hospital Grandpa and Josh gave me a blessing and later that night the contractions stopped. It was a little frustrating, Tuesday night about 4pm Contractions started up again and this time they were harder than they had been in the past, I was hesitant to go to the hospital but we decided we had better go. I was checked into Triage and was a 5.0 but not contracting consistently so they had me walk and I had a little change so again they had me walk and then no change so about mid-night at a 5.5 they sent me home, I was in shock considering my last delivery that they would send me home I was NOT happy! On my way back home I was contracting again pretty hard but refused to turn around so I went home, showered and went to bed, I was having hard contractions for the next few hours and working through them until I thought my water had broke, when I got up to see I realized it was blood not "water" or fluid leaking and I passed a large clot of blood or what we now know could have been a portion of the placenta, ( its now 4:30am) Josh and I headed to the Hospital after he saw the blood he drove FAST!!!! So we were sure not to have another 347 baby. We checked in to triage at 4:55am and they checked me, I was a 7 so I was finally admitted. We were moved to labor and delivery and they needed to give me antibiotics because my strep B test hadn't come back yet so they tried not to check me or anything for the next couple hrs, After I received both sets if antibiotics they checked me and I was an 8 and my water was "bulging" so shortly after my water broke and things went quickly from there, after about 30 mins I was ready to push and so were all the other women in labor and delivery I guess because they didn't have a Dr. for me, Luckily Dr. Ragaini was walking by on her way to a c-section and had 10 minutes to deliver me~ She came in we pushed about 5 times and little Ace entered the world, he was face up so that is why I had nasty back pain much of my pregnancy and made the last few pushes a little challenging but my Sister and husband were there to help me through it, Ace had a big bruise across the top of his head but it has already faded and its really hard to see even in pictures. So when I delivered the placenta they realized that it was deteriorating and had probably been detached for a quite some time, they don't know why it detached or exactly how long it had been they just new it was in sad shape and that Ace probably wouldn't have been supported him much longer. So once again we were blessed with a perfect miracle. Child birth is so incredible! exhausting, scary and painful yes but the lords miracles are clearly visible there. I am so grateful our tiny Ace made it to us healthy and safe. He is perfect and amazing in every way!!!

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T18:05:00.000-07:00

Since I was put on Bed rest at the beginning of the week our Easter Weekend was pretty low key but the kids had a great time. We got the kids a special surprise on Wednesday for Easter ( see below) and on Saturday a friend hosted an Easter egg hunt that was perfect for us, not too much work but the kids got to find eggs and sugar up. We had BBQ chicken with Potatoes and Deviled eggs for dinner and it was nice to not have everything too focused on the things that don't matter as much but we spent a ton of good time together and had a nice relaxing day. Hope you all had a splendid day and had the opportunity to think about our loving savior who died for us and was risen again on this day! Happy Easter everyone and remember that we know that Our Redeemer lives and loves us!

The Easter Bunny came a little early to our house this year, he brought the kids a couple new pets that we have been debating on getting for a while, Easter seemed like as good a time as any. We looked at Frogs, Turtles, Chameleons, Birds, Rats, Hamsters, Gerbils, Guinea Pigs and Birds. After much consideration and a bit of research we decided on these two little ladies!
Here is Colin holding Rosita she is black and white and what they call a "silky" Guinea Pig, she has a little bit of a rat look but she is pretty sweet and purrs alot. This is Gabriella she is super furry and Brown and Black she is a little more skiddish but is warming up to the family. They have been a lot of fun so far even though we can't play with them as much as maybe we would like to since they are still young and working on getting used to their new home. The kids adore them and just want to watch them all the time. This is Taylor holding Rosita. Morgyn doesn't get to hold them too much and defiantly can't take pictures while she is holding them but maybe soon enough we will get one of her with her new "babies" as she refers to them.

Moonlight Beach

2011-03-31T14:37:00.002-07:00

Sunday before we headed home we went up to Moonlight beach, it has a play ground and grass near the beach and was lots of fun although I think next time we would opt for Cardiff by the sea or La Jolla Cove for a place like this or even Del Mar beach from what I have heard. Anyway it was still a lot of fun but rocky. After a morning at the playground and on the beach we stopped by the San Diego temple as we headed out of town which we failed to realize we were so close to the entire time we were there, as you can tell it is BEAUTIFUL and peaceful and it was a nice walk around before we headed the 5 hrs home.

We had a really really great vacation and I am so glad we get to do things like this! Hope it wasn't too overwhelming!

Torrey Pines

2011-03-31T14:06:00.001-07:00

These pictures are backward so oops. On Saturday we went to Torrey Pines State reserve and beach, There is a hike down to the beach that was really green and pretty, it was a little gloomy on the walk down but as soon as we hit the beach the sun burst through the clouds and it was wonderful beach weather, we caught a crab and Josh, Grandpa, Lacey and the kids played in the waves a little and we enjoyed the sand, you can see how hard Morgyn was working in the sand with her tongue hanging out! She LOVES the sand and getting dirty, Taylor will play in the ice cold water for days and Colin likes a little bit of both but is always first to be done and ready to move on to something else. We then went back to the hotel had lunch, swam in the hot tub and then in the evening we went to the Mormon Battalion Museum which was really fun and cool to see, there was a covered wagon for the kids to sit in, Gold mining and brick laying and the story of the Mormon Battalion members that helped settle the San Diego area and the things they brought from the east that helped in the progression of civilization for the California Coast. It was a digital tour of sorts and I really liked it, we forgot the camera so I don't have any pictures of that. Saturday night we hit another WONDERFUL Mexican eatery and had an adventure full of laughs finding desert which of course Dad Martin needed (he he).

La Jolla

2011-03-31T13:39:00.000-07:00

We got to take a weekend and go to San Diego, We have had a lot going on lately and with the long days and other activities the kids haven't seen a lot of Josh so we decided it was a much deserved little vacation. The weather was supposed to be poor but we decided we would go anyway and it was perfect!

The first day we went to La Jolla, saw seal beach, played in the waves and ate at our favorite little Mexican joint there. Then we met up with Doug, Stacey and Lacey for a few more hours of play and some ice cream. Our hotel had a really cold swimming pool and a warm hot tub so after being at the beach we went back and did a little swimming there and had Chili's for dinner ( my new favorite pregnancy food RIBS) it was just outside the hotel room door. It was a wonderful first day!

GCU LOPES

2011-03-31T13:26:00.000-07:00

In February we took the kiddos to a GCU lopes basketball game. Josh and I went to 5 or 6 and Josh took the older kids to a couple also. We love watching the team play and supporting our school :) We all have T-shirts, hats and necklaces plus whatever else they hand out when you walk through the doors :) Its a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon with the kiddos. Here a just a few pictures from the Valentines Game. (it was actually the Saturday before V-day)

Ice Cream

2011-03-31T13:22:00.000-07:00

We love Frozen Yogurt and one trip to San Diego got us hooked on those little yougurt places that you get to try all the flavors then add all your own toppings, you pay per ounce kind of thing. Well our favorite one here in Phx(tempe) is Munchie on Ray! Mmmm We love to go there on Saturdays and sit outside to have some Ice cream. Colin and Tay are always really excited to try something new and fun ( side note for Maricopians-- we haven't made it to yogurt jungle yet)

Heart Walk 2011

2011-03-31T13:09:00.000-07:00

This was our second heart walk and it was a beautiful day for a walk in Phoenix. We were joined by my best friend and her family along with My sister, nephew, brother and one of Josh's co-workers. I made the T-shirts this year instead of ordering them and I thought they turned out alright for not being any too great. We always have a wonderful time walking with other members of the Heart Community. Its a great time for us to reflect on our lives, health and family. Its a little emotional for me to see how far we have come from the day Morgyn was diagnosed. She is a wonderful little girl and we are so glad to have her and to have had the experiences her heart disease has brought us. Hope we get to walk with All of you next year!

My Challenge

2011-03-07T10:46:00.000-08:00

So I had so MANY great ideasshared with me in my quest to find the perfect challenge, many that I will work on along with what I have chosen but here is what I decided.
When I went to the book store to get the 12 step program book and to look for a couple other things I came across a great little book. It hit me then that this was it. I love it! Its called its never to late. It is a book of simple acts to enhance your life. BY Britney Rule. I am excited somethings will be simple little changes or reminders other will take more time be more of an effort and will be an ongoing process for years or a lifetime, but I will still conquer them as well. So if you would like to follow along or Join the challenge you can see it here! Itsnevertoolateto.blogspot.com. Your comments and love are welcome! Thanks everyone for the support and love while I came up with the challenge and I will get started soon! I still promise pictures and Heart Walk post here as well!

A Challenge

2011-03-01T12:26:00.000-08:00

I am looking for a challenge. No not that my life isn't challenging enough I just recently watch Julie and Julia or Julia and Julie I can't remember which it is. That is the wonderful workings of this pregnancy brain. Anyway that is not the point. I want to work my way through something. A cook book sounds fun I could definitely use the practice. I have thought of a few other ideas like a working my way through a sewing blog to improve on that or working through a craft blog and trying everything on there but then those are in continual growth how would that ever end. So I want a goal a mission a something to do when I am home and need some motivation to do a little bit more with my day and have that little bit more be something that I want and like to do would be all the better. I want something unique and different, we are already working on a stake reading challenge as a couple and I have added my own side to that to keep me faithfully reading my scriptures, So to those of you if there are many left who still read our blog.... What do you think? What can I work through? What would be a fun challenge??? What you you like to me see me try, fail and try again at? (I'm sure there will be some of that) Leave me your comments :) HUGS!

Oh and there are Heart Walk Pictures coming and a post about that to be here soon!

Morgyn Turns 2

2011-02-16T16:26:00.001-08:00

Our Sweet Morgyn Turned 2 on the 6th of Feb. It was a Sunday and we just celebrated as a family with a little cake. Which she could not keep her fingers out of. Not that I wanted her to. She thoroughly enjoyed it and the new tea set she got. Morgyn is such a joy in our lives. She is crazy! She is so much like her brother. She makes the same faces as he does and love to play rough with him. I think it must be because they spend so much time together. She also loves her new stroller Auntie Ashely got her. She always has to have a baby with her, she is a little Mommy just like Taylor. She is working toward potty training, talking alot and still in a crib which is new for us. She is loaded with personality and spunk. We just love our little Morgyn!
Happy Happy Birthday to her!

Tearful Thoughts.

2011-02-06T21:33:00.000-08:00

I don't think that this day will ever get any easier for me. I feel a little guilty at times that her birth mean so much to me. My other children are such great blessings and I adore them as much as I do her but I have a rough time on this day.
I was sitting here doing homework, working away writing a final essay, editing and posting it when I finally finished I dramatically burst into tears. Not because I stress, proud or finished but I looked at the time, right around 10:30, I remember the late hours of the day of her birth pretty well, even though they were such a blur. I guess I can't say I remember them well and that they were a blur but I do want to document what I do remember.
I remember them sending me out of the room, it was about 7:30 at this point, not giving me any information on what was going on, I remember the rocking chair I sat in, I remember sobbing not know what to do thinking I had failed that I had some how hurt my sweet baby girl. I remember the phones in the nursery ringing and ringing people seemed frantic yet I knew nothing, they just kept telling everyone on the line " we can't do it now, we are bagging a baby" I knew that baby was mine. I remember calling Josh, just barely, and waiting for him to return to the hospital. One thing I will NEVER forget, I have heard it clearly in my head many times in the last 2 years and I know I remember it because my husband believed it and he helped me to believe it was true, He never told me, she will be fine, he will get well he only told me that the lord was with her, he said this You have done your part as a mother, given our child the greatest give a mother can give her child, a body. It is part of the plan, it is what you were supposed to do. We continued to talk about the plan of salvation and that if we did loose our sweet Morgyn that we would be reunited with her again. That the lord was kind and he would comfort us. I knew that was true. His testimony that night was one of the sweetest things he has ever done for me, today at church my husband shared again his testimony, one of charity and service, his love for his family and love of church leaders, he honored me as his wife and shared his love for me and our family, I was so grateful I couldn't speak.
Next I remember the blessing Josh and My brother in law Brian gave Morgyn one of safety and comfort, they left her life and our heart in the lords hands. She was calm. She looked peaceful most importantly at that point she looked a little more pink. They then gave me a priesthood blessing of rest, peace and comfort. Josh then went to the other hospital with Morgyn, I stayed and went back to my room. I don't remember much after that until 4:16 the next morning I woke up to a baby crying and I cried but turned over to realize my sweet husband was back by my side there to comfort me trusting the lord that our children were in good hands. He was there for me.
I feel like I am terrible at expressing it but I love that man, he has stood strongly beside me through hard time and great times. He makes me laugh often, take most wonderful care of me and my children, I couldn't be more grateful or proud of the man he is.
I am truly grateful for my knowledge of the plan of salvation through the last 2 years especially the lord has continued to testify to me that he has a plan for each of us. We have agency but when we are to be called back to our savior we will return. There are many in heaven waiting for the gospel and many missionaries need there.
To those who have lost children, babies and loved ones
know the lord loves you, keep him close to you for comfort he will guide you through the tough times, he will show you the way to comfort. Know that there will be a time again that you will see those who have passed on. Trust in him that he will allow you happiness and that is indeed what he desires for you. I know we have a loving savior and I am grateful for him. In the name of our loving lord and savior Jesus Christ--- Amen

My Taylor Turns 6!

2011-01-24T16:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Happy Birthday to my Sweet Taylor! This girl has grown in such an incredible way the last year we love her tender heart, mothering spirit and the love she shares so openly around our home. Taylor is currently in Kindergarten at Legacy Traditional School hear in Maricopa. She really loves to learn and loves making new friends. She LOVES getting to spend time doing anything physical with her grandparents and family She recently started Rock Climbing lessons and is doing great!

Taylor had her cousins over on her actual birthday and then she also had a friend party on Saturday. We had a "Tangled" themed Party where the girls Painted Rapunzel's walls, Hit the pinata with a frying pan, made frying pan necklaces and decorated Rapunzel's braid with lots of flowers. They had a great time!

Christmas Vacation In Photos

2011-01-24T15:54:00.001-08:00

Christmas Vacation and all that went along with it!

2011-01-24T15:28:00.000-08:00

We got to go to Idaho for our Christmas Vacation for the first time in 7 years. It was full of mixed emotions. We had planned on going to Idaho on the Tuesday before Christmas to surprise my mom and Dad and get there a few days before we had told them we were coming. It ended up being a great blessing that we had planned to leave a few days early because Monday afternoon I got the devastating call that my Aunt Mary had lost her battle with Cancer. I have lost two of the most amazing women in my life in the last 6 months, it hasn't been easy but it has made me really cherish the women that I do have in my life. She fought with all her heart but in the end it was her time to go. I have had a hard time writing about this because there are so many regrets I have, so many things I wish I would have said long ago and I lost out on the opportunity. Her Children and husband and family did a wonderful job at the funeral, there were many laughs, tears and tender moments. Her kids have all written wonderful blog posts about her and given beautiful tributes that we will read often and I love them for sharing her with everyone.

After the funeral on Wednesday in Boise, we headed back to my parents place in Pocatello, It was a long few day in the car and the kids did WONDERFULLY we were really blessed by their Patience. We took the next couple days to get ready for Christmas and spend time with family. We spent Christmas Eve at Pier 49 helping my mom make pizza, do dishes and playing games. We also frosted cookies and Josh even delivered a few pizzas. We went home and spent Christmas eve night having a nice dinner and letting the Grandkids participate in a Nativity Scene, while Grandpa read the Christmas Story. It was fun for all. Christmas day was relaxing and fun letting kids run around and we took the Kids sledding, it was so COLD! I am not an Idaho girl anymore!!! Other things we did while we were in Idaho are:

Josh and Colin went Ice fishing

Played board games with family

Went to Lava Hot Springs (always a favorite)

I also got to go through a bunch of my Grandma's belongings and learn a little more about her which is always fun and special.

So after Idaho we head to Utah to spend time with Josh's Uncle Jeff and Aunt Becky they are always so sweet to welcome us to their home. On our way there we stopped at temple square and saw some of the sites and spent the day as a family. We arrived in South Jordan on the 30th and spent the 31st ( my birthday) there, The Hones made sure it was special for me, we played our favorite board games most the day and then Brianne and Brian arrived to spend New years eve with us! Mia and Taylor had a great time! It was fun for them to get to play together.

New Years day we headed home. We had such a fun fun fun almost 2 weeks away! It was rough getting back into the groove of things when we got home but I think we have finally done it.

Hope you all had a wonderful Holiday we sure did!

Happy 2011 to you all!

Thanks Giving

2011-01-24T15:17:00.000-08:00

I don't have any pictures of Thanks Giving day but wanted to take the time to write about the occasion. I will have to see if my Sister in law has any pictures, I can't seem to remember if she does. That is the story of my life these days! Anyway

Thanks Giving day we spent in Glendale, at Justin and Chelsea's Home. Josh's parents Doug and Stacey were visiting and the grandkids always love to get to play together especially when Gramma Stacey and Grandpa Doug are around. Chelsea's parents were also there to visit, her Mom Caroline taught me to crochet which was my winter goal! I got to spend some time snuggling on new little Westin who was born the week before. We had a nice dinner and played games and did a craft with the kids, it was nice and relaxing to get to spend time with Family. We sure love all of our Martin Family and are so grateful for the time we get to spend with them, even though many of them are close we are all so busy that we don't get to spend too much time together but I love the relationships the kids are forming with each other despite the lack of time we have to spend!

We had a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

I never win but it would be Grand

2011-01-20T19:04:00.000-08:00

So I really want a silhouette! Like really really but I know I can't buy one so ..... Heres to wishing and hoping!

WINNER I hope I win I hope I win...
This is the link to the giveaway Maybe you will win and we can share!!!!
Give it a shot!
or Try this one!!
WIN HERE TOO
Good luck to me and you!
and
Another chance to win A silhouette!

The announcement

2011-01-19T15:24:00.000-08:00

Well as I check out our blog and realize how neglected Blog World has been from the Martin Family.
So here is some of what you have missed. I haven't found my new camera :( so I can't upload pictures yet but anyway I will fill you in and post pictures later!

OH Yeah and I realized I never really announced the news! We of course are expecting baby number 4! We are thrilled and recently found out that we will be welcoming another BABY BOY into our home! We can hardly wait for him to arrive in June or possibly the end of May!!! I have had a pretty simple pregnancy so far and we feel very very blessed!

So look for Martin Family updates to come! Love you all!

Hiking

2010-11-16T06:58:00.000-08:00

Saturday we were able to meet up with a friend of Josh's from work to borrow their hiking pack for Morgyn. Then on Sunday afternoon we went over to South Mountain for a little hike. The kids LOVED it! We had a great time and the day was beautiful, probably a little warm for most but I thought it was great! Hope you enjoy the pictures!

We went a little off Trail. Cactus in the shoe was the punishment :/

Happy Halloween

2010-11-01T08:41:00.000-07:00

Morgyn was our little lion ( we lost our ears on Friday night), Colin was Woody and Taylor was Jessie. We had a great 3 days of fun! I was sick on Saturday and recovering Sunday but it was still so fun to spend time together and see the kids so excited to dress up! They had a blast. They are already planning next year! :0)

I never did get a picture of all three kids together but here is what I did get!

Etsy

2010-10-24T14:52:00.001-07:00

Finally loaded my watches on Etsy!! I know I have promised some of you for a very long time! Well they are there for your viewing and buying pleasure~ Enjoy :)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Jkmarty

Say Cheese

2010-10-11T10:42:00.000-07:00

Today we were invited to participate in a photo shoot for a friend of mine who is a very talented photographer, You can check out Shannon and her splendid talent here! So since I am taking a photography class I decided to work on a little homework while I was there with her. I am not nearly as talented as Shannon but I thought a few of them turned out pretty good!

Miss Ella

2010-09-14T21:35:00.001-07:00

Oh this little girl. She is as naughty as they come. From poo painting to playing in the toilet, coloring on the walls, and any other naughty act you can think of she has done it or will with in the next month or so. She is on a roll! Then we have breaks, nights like tonight when I sit and think Where has my baby gone??? Look at her she has grown so fast. It feels like yesterday that I was wondering if she would be more like Colin or more like Taylor. Well she is neither she is all MORGYN! she has a wonderfully mischievous personality. She is loving and kind and sassy and mean all at the same time. She is drama!!! She is funny and She is also very determined! You can see in the pictures she is a little ham and quite stubborn too. She has a lot of patience for a 1 year old as well. She loves to play with Babies and eat. She loves to color and do ANYTHING that Colin and Taylor do. She is so fun and so special. I just love her and am so glad that we were blessed with her. Even when she is naughty!

Girls Night Goodbye

2010-09-14T21:27:00.001-07:00

So just over a week ago my dear sweet friend Gina Lee moved! We were so so sad to see her go and miss her everyday but know that her and her family have new and exciting things happening in their lives! So to say goodbye or better yet see you later to one of my favorite people what did we do? We had the bomb of girls nights!! We stayed at the AZ Grande, 6 of us! We stayed up all night like we were 12 again and all felt it the next day remembering quickly that we are no longer 12!! We swam, ate a ton of junk food and had our tootsies painted because Gina does the best toes around! I love when she does my zebra stripes and I will miss it!!! Anyway we felt like teenagers again and made wonderful memories! We love the Lee's! Good luck to them on their new adventures!!!

Maureen, Teri, Gina and I

Im back at life

2010-08-31T13:23:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, the last month has been a really tough one for us/mostly me!
My grandma passed away. It wasn't a shock but it was REALLY REALLY hard. So early a Sunday morning Josh, Mo and I jumped in the car and headed to Idaho ( Colin and Taylor were already in Utah with Grandma and Grandpa Martin) We met up with the kids and headed to my mom's where I got to see my entire family which has been twice in a year, that is pretty impressive. I also go to see cousins and an aunt and uncle that we haven't seen in quite a while. Among the sad feelings we all shared our happy memories of Grandma and tried to celebrate her the way she deserved to be celebrated. The Funeral service was perfect. Dad sang and uncle Steve spoke. Grandma was standing above so proud of her boys. Her spirit was a strong presence in all the events of those few days. The talks were wonderful they suited her perfectly, helped us all cope with death well and were perfect words of comfort during hard moments. It really was so special for me and the rest of my family.

In the meantime back in Arizona, school had started Taylor missed only the first couple days but was excited to get back to start school. She started Kindergarten this year at Legacy Traditional School. We opted for half day, she is doing well and would probably love to do a full day program but I just can't let her go just yet. She is a fast learner and really loves school and home work.
Colin also started preschool as soon as we got back. He has grown so much and I think we have learned that we have a little lefty in the family. Josh thinks this makes a good reason to get him into baseball :) which of course I love. Nana Ward would love to watch that sweet boy play. I know in heaven he will have a little section cheering him on in whatever he does but Baseball would bring a huge smile to Nana and Papa's faces.

Other things going on is MOVING! I think everyone in Maricopa is moving except us! I know for now this is where we are supposed to be but it is hard to see good friends leave. That is the story of life though! Even with all the craziness we are moving on. Trying to move forward with live and get back in the swing of things, I wonder if it will ever happen. I am determined to find a new groove! (see post below) If someone else can do it I can too!!!!
The Pictures ended up a little crazy but maybe you can guess where they belong...
First couple are funeral services Morgyn is getting so big and Taylor holding new little Gavin.
While we were there Taylor decided she wanted her ears pierced so we had it done for her. Josh and the kids went fishing with Bob up to American Falls res. You can see the fish were huge :). Then Taylor's first day of school!

Bye Bye Boobies--KMLE

2010-08-31T13:21:00.000-07:00

Bye Bye Boobies–Bet We Can Write a Song About THAT « KMLE Country 108

So I was Taking Taylor to school and i heard this! I loved it. The woman that shared her story was a warrior and it reminded me of too many women I know that have been wrecked by cancer. It breaks my heart beyond what words can express. " the big C" bombards the lives of many and more and more people decided to grab it by the balls and fight with everything they have. I admire that Im not sure i could do the same.
Tragedy seems to be around every corner the last month or so and as the song says " She's all cried out and done with the pouting" Im ready to be done, Im ready to get on with the fighting for life! I am blessed in so many ways why have I let myself get in the slump of tragedy. That is not what My grandma would have wanted, it is not what the close friends that are moving want, its not what my dear aunt who fights for her life wants. Im ready to move on. Be more productive and live life!
HOLD ME TO IT!!!!!

With love
Kara

Church is Dangerous

2010-07-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

So here it is.
I was closing the dividers between the overflow and the cultural hall at church, I was wearing my heels and pulling the accordion wall with all my might when my foot slipped under the edge of the wall and along the sharp metal that the bottom.... Slice... Blood... uh oh!
So I ran out to the hallway to the bathroom where the fabulous sister Bogel was there ( she is a nurse) she helped me get the blood under control and taped me up! She was fantastic. Then the news came that Brother Porter ( a PA) was in the building so someone grabbed him for me. He took a look and decided it needed stitches. Well I had a class to teach and didn't want to go to urgent care so Brother Porter was kind enough to run home and get his first aid kit. We went into the High council room ( about the only empty room in the building) and Stitched me up. He numbed it good and then gave me three little stitches and sent me on my way. It was a little dramatic but not too bad. Only my third time having stitches because of an accident! and only 1 time has been in a hospital funny huh. anyway all is well just a funny story! Be careful out there at church :)

Sea Life Aquarium

2010-07-21T11:38:00.001-07:00

Grandma Ward( My Mom) Is visiting while we await the arrival of Valerie and Brian's little man.... Waiting!!! :)

Anyway yesterday we took the kids to the Sea Life Aquarium, it is small but it is indoors, air conditioned and the kids had a great time. It only took a few hours to see and enjoy everything. It was a perfect amount to spend with the kiddos not having to stop for lunch or anything like that.

We saw sharks, jelly fish, Sea horses ( my favorite, and the 2nd best display of sea horses I have seen, shed aquarium being the 1st)
Rays and lots of tropical and fresh water fish.

It was a good time!

Hope you enjoy the pictures

--Kara

2010-06-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

These aren't the best pictures but Look how big our girl is getting. She is SO outgoing and fun. She will try almost anything! She is rock climbing at Lifetime Fitness!

Bowling for Colins Birthday

2010-06-13T18:12:00.001-07:00

We went Bowling as a family for Colin's Birthday. He LOVED it of course. We just let the kids bowl and we helped. They had a ton of fun! They love trying new things and Colin knew it was his special day!

Big 3!

2010-06-13T17:51:00.001-07:00

Can you believe it??? My little MAN is 3! Words can not express how much I LOVE this boy! He is my buddy and such a FUN kid. He makes us laugh all the time! He does and says the funniest things. He has a sweet kind heart and he is very curious. He LOVES his sisters and misses Tay when she is gone. He is very excited to start preschool in the fall and he is FINALLY! pretty much almost potty trained.... we had a good day including poops on the potty! Wahoo!

I just love him and am So so glad he had such a fun birthday.

Making wishes! This was on his actual birthday (June 2) we had his party the Monday before. Colin is all about Toy Story.

Happy Birthday to You!

Making a Wish

Hope all your Wishes come true Buddy!

We had lots of fun at the birthday party where we had a bunch of friends and family over to play in the water, have lunch and of course the dounut cake thanks to Ashley! Colin LOVES dounuts it was his perfect cake!

Taylor's Final Preschool Graduation

2010-06-01T14:52:00.000-07:00

Colin and his backpack! He can hardly wait to go to school just like Tay!

Taylor Loves her brother and sister and as you can See Morgy LOVES~Taylor Too! She wasn't feeling to well that day but couldn't miss graduation!

This is Taylor's 3rd preschool graduation but it is her final one! She starts Kindergarten In August! I can hardly believe it. I have been up and down on deciding which school to send her to and if she should be in full day or half day!

Taylor is a very sweet little girl. She is a great example and very smart. She LOVES her family she is always telling me and her dad how much she loves us. They called her the little mother of the preschool. She keeps everyone on task and is always there to help when someone is sad or gets hurt. We were so very proud of our Tay! We love her to pieces!

Cardiologist Update

2010-05-17T20:06:00.000-07:00

Cardiologist update today! I STRESS OUT! When these come around every 6 months! I get this terrible knot in my stomach and feel insane all day until they are over. This appointment was extra scary to me because if Morgyn didn't behave we would have to sedate her for an echo... I was not looking forward to the fight and I was almost positive that she was going to freak out and squirm and we were going to have to come back. She is 15 months could I really expect her to be good the entire time? No, and she wasn't but.... to my joy and surprise we got all the pictures of her little wonderful working heart that we needed.
She did SCREAM like we were torturing her for the first 20 minutes or so but after I found a lip gloss in my purse she munched on that ( gross I know but its better then sedation) for a while she settled down and watched Elmo the rest of the time. I felt like my prayers had been answered and that the lord was certainly watching over me...
(I'm about ready to blab so skip to the pictures if you would like)
I am in complete awe of how blessed we are. I don't think I deserve these blessings often and maybe it is Morgyn's faithfulness and not mine that gets us these extra blessings but every time we go to the cardiologist it seems things are getting better and I couldn't ask for more!
First- I am so so so Grateful that we have Dr. Rhee as a Doctor, I did not pick him, I did not do research to find him... he was handed to us and he is AMAZING! He is so kind , funny and he remembers my child!!!! I think that is huge! He is so sweet with her and always makes me feel like I know what is going on. Never leaves questions unanswered and I have always felt like he has our very best interest in mind. How did we get so lucky????
Second- just to mention that the Doctor that actually did Morgyns procedure just did the first pediatric heart transplant in AZ ( see the article here) Is it amazing or what that he is the one that saved our little lady! I sure am grateful!
Third- Morgyn's heart is nearly perfect now! I realize that she still could relapse but the chances are low (10%ish) and she is growing so wonderfully as you can see! Dr. Rhee said today that " she's a keeper" :) in his word she is wonderful! He said she has very minor narrowing of her valve, she is in normal range.... Normal range for ANY CHILD!! not just a child with heart disease. She almost doesn't even need that nasty heart disease title anymore!!! But we must keep it just to be cautious! I love this girl she is an amazing spirit and is so sweet. I love that we get to keep her and that she is so very healthy now! She is a unique addition to our home and I am ever indebted to our heavenly father for allowing her to stay here on earth with us and help us to grow!
Last- We get to see Dr. Rhee again in 6 months and if all is well it will be a year before we see him again! Love it!!!!

Sorry These of course are backward!

So Very Happy To Be finished!!!

Finally settled down enough to get some good shots! JQ was awesome!!! It is Dr/Nurses like him that make going to the Hospital/Dr. Office bearable

Just arrived at Dr. Rhee's Office. She looks like she knows whats next and she isn't thrilled about it! She was a tired baby!

Suns Fan?

2010-05-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

The Game was Intense

She is Beautiful

Mmmm Popcorn

Lovin it!

Its no secret that we love the Sacramento Kings but the Suns are hot stuff here in the Valley of the sun and you can't help but watch when they are in the playoffs even Morgy got in on the action. She was in heaven in her little chair, watching the suns game and eating popcorn! GO SUNS!!! and KINGS!

We are still Here!

2010-05-16T21:10:00.000-07:00

Just showing you how crazy we have been lately, Spring is here and we are spending a lot of time playing outside, wrestling with each other in the evening and eating a lot of tasty fruit!!
I don't have the perfect family but I sure think my kiddos are great... they really get along so well and the older ones are so awesome with Morgyn! I just love them! I am so proud to be their Mom and wonder often how they turned out so wonderful!!!! I hope you enjoy their craziness as much as I do!

April 2010

2010-05-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

I changed my mind I couldn't miss out on blogging about our wonderful trip to California.
Grandma and Grandpa Hone had their 5oth Wedding anniversary at the beginning of April. We go to join pretty much the entire Hone Family to Celebrate in Sacramento! It was great to get to spend time with everyone. After a few days in Sac and spending a couple of awesome days with our good friends the Evans and getting to see Grandma Martin we headed to Hanford to see Grandma and Grandpa Martin, always a great time! We had pic-nics, went swimming and played ALOT with cousins it was so fun! Thanks to Justin and Chelsea Taylor got to stay a few extra days after Mom and Dad came home! We missed her so much but she proved to be a very good little girl we were so proud of how brave and big she was while she was away! Lots of fun here are a few pictures to enjoy.

Colin Boy

Oops I didn't rotate this one... sorry Josh and Colin at the anniversary Party

The whole Martin/Bell/Gray Clan.... Josh's Mom and all her kids and grandkids
Playing in Hanford

Morgyn and Brynn sharing a plate at the pic-nic they are so funny together!

Grandpa Hone and Morgyn first time they met!

The entire Hone Family! (well we were missing just a few)

Heart Walk 2010

2010-05-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

Instead of playing catch up with the exception of the hear walk Im going to just play keep up and see how that goes!

So the heart walk.... What a wonderful experience Morgyn's first heart walk was. It was SUPER special to have so much family here! We all had matching T-shirts and walked together... We had a TON of support and donations made in Morgyn's honor ( so much in fact that I was asked to be on the heart walk board for 2011, I am very excited) It was just awesome to honor her fight and support the Heart Association. We are so very greatful that we got our little girl back to us healthy by supporting the American Heart Association we can help others learn more about infant heart disease as well as fighting heart disease in adults!!!

MORGYN turns 1!!!

2010-04-06T14:23:00.000-07:00

Morgyn turned 1 on Feb. 6th! She wasn't feeling too hot and you can see it in her eyes. I can not believe still that she is 1! We took the kids to Ihop then came home and had cake and went to bed early trying to get her feeling better.

A little about Morgyn~ Our little MO is a sassy sweet thing. She will let you know how she is feeling about most everything. She laughs, crys and talks ALOT. She always makes noise. She isn't walking just yet but is getting closer all the time. She is really doing well health wise. We have had few scares or worries in the last year and are SO very grateful for her health! I love this girl and am so grateful for the blessing she is in our family!

Disney on Ice

2010-04-06T14:01:00.000-07:00

My friend Ashley and I took our kids to see Disney on Ice. The kids LOVED it! I did too! It had a whole bunch of different disney characters. It was a little crazy taking all the kids but it was well worth it and a lot of fun!

Taylor Turns 5! January 6, 2010

2010-04-06T10:02:00.000-07:00

Happy 5th Birtday Taylor!!!

Our Miss Taylor turned 5 on January 6th!

All she wanted for her birthday was a watch like mom's! So we got out the beads and she made herself a watch. She also had preschool on her birthday so she got to take cupcakes and treats for all her preschool friends. We then had cake at home with our little family and opened presents from grandparents and family. The weekend after her birthday we did a build a bear with some of her friends. When she was asked who we should invite she was sure she didn't want boys at her party! It was pretty cute. She wanted everyone to come but we had to put a limit somewhere! So she chose just the girls from her preschool class to join her at build a bear. She also sometime decided she no longer wanted a birthday cake she wanted birthday donuts. (sound like anyone we know? Grandpa Martin) The girls all made animals and had a little t-shirt to put on their pet. It was a lot of fun and I am completely amazed that my girl is 5!

Christmas 2009

2010-02-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

Well Merry Christmas! This is mostly for me so I can remember well the precious laughter of Christmas 2009~

Taylor Put together this plate of Goodies for the Reindeer and muffins for santa too. There is peanut butter on the Pinecones and Glitter on everything so that it could be seen from the sky.

The morning after Santa and the reindeer came. They must have been somewhere muddy before our house. look at those foot prints :)

Morgyn Enjoying Christmas morning and a Candy cane

More Christmas morning fun.

Tay loved the Apron she got from Grandma and Grandpa Ward

Happy Christmas morning from our Boys.

Colin couldn't decide which toys to play with first!

We had a very Low Key but enjoyable Christmas. It was all about the kids! Josh and I didnt really exchange gifts. He got us a extra special present earlier in the month :) He did get me a GCU tshirt that I love though. He got some floss. lucky guy!!!

After spending the morning together playing games and resting we had dinner with the Abercrombie and Farabees. Loads of FUN! We are so lucky to have great friends to keep us company when Family cant!!!

Josh Turns 28!

2010-02-18T10:34:00.000-08:00

Once again Tradition would have it that I make a seriously bad cake. I have so many talented friends and family members that I am sure that the blogging of my horrific masterpieces entertains many of you or at least is an ego booster for you! :)

Josh turned 28 on Dec 9th.... It was a low key fun evening as it always is. The 2 littlest kids and I suprised him at work with a little treat bag full of gifts... Nothing crazy but a few things he likes. such as muscle milks and almonds :)

Taylor seems to think that she gets to pick the theme for everyones birthdays so for daddy she chose SPIDERMAN!!! I made marshmellow fondant which was fun, I like to try new things even though I am rarely good at them. Anyway we did the best to make his day special and are looking forward to another great year! :) Love you Josh!!!!!

Thats alot of Candles. Daddy needed 2 helpers!

Thanks Giving In Idaho!

2010-02-18T10:14:00.000-08:00

Let the Back Tracking begin! It is going to be Easter before I realize and here I am still stuck in 2009!!!!!

For the first time in our Married Lives we headed north to Idaho for Thanksgiving. Also the first time in At least 6 years since the entire Ward Clan has been together( we were missing some of the kids s. It was a great week! We got to meet Shayla who quickly became part of the family when her and Bob started dating. R.Jay and Aimee home from their missions and Grandma Ward doing pretty well!
We enjoyed spending time together playing wii and other games as well as getting to take Josh and the kids to Lava hot springs for the first time. Josh and I got to go out a couple times and it was just a lot of fun.
We also had Ward family pictures taken while we were there.

Our Beautiful Tay

Colin Rocking out with Rockband! He loved it.... I did too! :) See below for my intense Drumming Skills~

Grammy and Mo.

Nana and Mo

Yes, Rockband is serious business! R.jay, Aimee and I made a pretty sweet BAND!

Ha!

2010-01-16T16:19:00.000-08:00

Well Well well... Look at me another month and a half has gone by and we have been up to many joyful activties yet I have failed in one more catagory of my life.... I love this blog and looking back at it and it bums me out when I realize I have failed to keep it updated! So I may not get it all done now but guess what is in store! Here are some teasers!
*Thanks Giving in Idaho( I know it is January but I have a few pictures and we had Ward Family pictures done so I will post a few)
* Josh's Birthday ( a seriously Hideous cake once again! Woohoo for me)
* Christmas
* New Years Eve ( Ass burger Traditions)
* Sploozebells( I don't know if I have any pictures but I want to blab about it)
* Taylor Turns 5!!!
* Taylors Build a Bear Birthday Party
* Disney On Ice
and since I won't get all that done by Monday
* Bounce Jungle!

A grateful Day. Babblings of Kara....

2009-12-02T11:20:00.000-08:00

OK so I am a crazy mess today. I have come to realize the year is almost over, Morgyn is nearly 1 and I am so grateful for the blessing we have received this year.

Last night as Josh and I were going over our savings and budget for the next few months the date of Feb 4th came up! WHAT!!!! We are already that close to FEB!!! I couldn't believe it. Instantly my eyes filled with tears as they are right now just thinking back. So here is the thing.

I didn't do an I'm Thankful posted as many of my friends and family did I don't think I even sat down and truly thought about Thanksgiving because we were having such a great time in Idaho. So now I sit here tears in my eyes thinking about all the things I am grateful for.

1. I am so grateful for my little family~ I have a wonderful husband who loves me and my kids. He cherishes me and thinks about us always! He is extremely sexy and has eyes only for me!!! Isn't that amazing! As the worlds immorality seems to close around us and force itself upon even the best of couples Josh stays true to me as I do to him and he loves me unconditionally! How amazing is that!!!! I have great kids! Taylor is growing into such a wonderful little girl. She is smart thoughtful and tender hearted! She loves her family and her dog in such a passionate way. She is honest and loyal! I hope that I can continue to teach her in righteousness. Colin is my boy! He is so sweet and lovable, he is fun and exciting. He is strong willed and determined. He will make a great missionary one day and I know thanks to the examples of his dad and uncles he will change the lives of Many. Morgyn oh morgyn, she is a sweet sweet girl, her smile is infectious. She is our miracle and that humbles me daily.

2. I want to continue on my Gratitude for little Mo. She is truly a miracle. I came upon pictures of her at the hospital yesterday, it shocked me. She was nearly BLACK she was so blue. At first as I sat and looked at the pictures I was angry. Asking how could they not know something was wrong! How could I not know! She didn't even look like she belonged to us! Then the softness filled me and I was grateful for the nurse that did do something! Thankful to my husband who has the priesthood and blessed her and me that night! I am Thankful for modern medicine and the good Doctors who took such good care of my sweet little girl~ We really could have lost her that night and I do not know what I would have done if that would have happened. I'm glad I don't have to know. I want to think I would have picked up and moved on for the sake of my eternal family, I don't know if I really would have had the strength to do so. I know Josh would have carried me through and I know he has/had the strength to do so because he was preparing to. I am grateful that Morgyn is developing well! I have a crazy pit in my stomach thinking about the Cardiologist appointment next week but we will deal with that when it comes.

3. I am grateful for good friends~ In the last year I have grown apart from some friends but gained SO many new ones! I have friends that seem to just know when I need a little pick me up, extra push or a phone call. I have friends who just appear and have the right thing to say or the right way to help. I love being able to go out at least for bunco nights every month~ I really enjoy the girls time I get every now and then. The quality of the people in my life right now is so HIGH!

4. Work, I know work is tough for Josh at times but he continues on. I am so grateful he has a job and a great paying one at that! We are able to save money most months and in this economy that seems amazing to me~ I am grateful for the opportunities he has opened up for us by being such a hard worker~

Anyway those are the things on my mind today along with
Christmas is almost here no stopping it! Then the new year! I can not believe it!
Taylor is almost 5! Where has the time gone! Then Morgyn will be 1. Our Anniversary and birthday are coming this month too and there seems to be no time to celebrate or do anything special for my amazing hubby~ I feel a bit crazy but happy at the same time~ Oh dear me~

What else happend in October?

2009-12-01T09:58:00.001-08:00

This is before Halloween but the best picture I have of Colin and Tay since Colin got sick on Halloween and threw up all over his costume.

We went to the trunk or treat where we enjoyed seeing many of our friends all dressed up! We had Chili and Cotton Candy. After the trunk or treat we went home because Colin wasn't feeling so well. He had puked on his costume shortly after we got home so Josh and Colin stayed home while Taylor, Morgyn and I ventured through the neighborhood to do some trick or treating. Taylor LOVED it! She wanted to go go go! She loved getting to see the decorated houses and having everyone think she looked so cute as super girl!

Our sick buzz light year~

Mr. Clean~ Thanks Uncle Kal or the Idea :)

Taylor's preschool class!

Here are a few pictures from Carving Pumpkins. Tay loved loved it, Colin slept through most of it but was excited to wake up to a pumpkin lighting :) and Morgyn just wanted to eat it! Big surprise huh~

We had family pictures taken by the most fabulous Jake Johnson! They turned out great! Here are just a few! These are the ones I had Available not the best ones! I will get those on here as soon as I have them ready! :)

Multi Post Post :)

2009-12-01T09:50:00.000-08:00

Well Seems that I have completely missed October and November so here is an update on what has been going on around here.

San Diego- October

2009-10-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

Well As you can tell we LOVE San Diego. The first week in October we met Mom and Dad Martin there for a few days of Camping, beach and sea world! and LOTS and LOTS of fun! Here are some pictures!

Amazing

2009-09-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

I know this may seem a little Random but I found this adoption story and I thought it was AMAZING! We know many people who have adopted or are seeking children to adopt.
This is the birth mother's story and she writes it beautifully. I just thought it was worth sharing because it is a wonderful emotional story that is real and continues. I think this birth mom deserves support for being so wonderful. Check out her story here thehappiestsad.

MO Buddies!

2009-09-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky to have a wonderful husband who LOVES to spend time with our kids and me!!! He is just the best dad and so when Morgyn was hanging with him he was thrilled! She was completely enjoying her Daddy time as well. The other kids were in bed so she got to have daddy and some popcorn all to herself.

Football

2009-09-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

Does this mean he will go Pro?

I had mentioned in my last post that Colin picks a toy in the morning and carries it all day. I wish I would have taken pictures throughout the day with this one. He took it to the store, the bank, out side to play, in the bath and then to bed. Notice he is even holding it right! :) He can play ball in his sleep! I can hope right! I am so excited for him to get to play football. We even go out to the park some Saturday nights and watch the little boys play. HE LOVES to watch!

An Update

2009-09-21T16:19:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in a while so I thought it might be time for an update.

I have such a wonderful little family and they say and do the cutest and most wonderful things.

TaylorTay is going up so quickly she has become a very good little communicator. She LOVES to talk! She talks to everyone but is a little shy at first just like I was when I was her age hiding behind my moms leg. Then as soon as she feel comfortable the jabbering starts.

She also loves to sing, dance, color and paint. She is a sweet blessing in our home. Preschool started about 6 weeks ago and she is loving it. She is used to doing other activites along with preschool so she is finding herself a little bored some days but has had more time to spend playing with her brother and helping mommy around the house. She is becoming such a beautiful and smart little girl I think she is Daddy's very best friend! He loves to spend time chatting with her and playing games with her. She adores his attention of course and values his opinion on things. She is starting to be very observant and notice the things around her. Like a car that is the same color or make as ours things I sometimes don't even notice.

She says things like

Mommy- Red means HOT! and Blue means WARM (refering to the kitchen fauset.) In arizona that is true. Poor girl may never know the blue means cold :)

She also has come up with funny nick names for people.
She insists that her Uncle Bob is actually Uncle BobCat.... Juni bears daddy

She calls her self Taylor Swift Hannah Montana Princess Sparkles Martin

Today we had this conversation:

T: What color are your eyes?

M: They are blue.

T: Hmmmm, Let me see.

Nope they are green just like Daddy's, sorry nothing you can do about it. She is so fun loving and sweet. What a little blessing she is in our home!

COLIN Oh Our sweet little boy. He is as loveable as ever but man can he be a stinker! He always beats me with those BEAUTIFUL blue eyes. He is still as active and crazy as ever, he is a ball of energy and fun. He is learning to talk really well and can communicate his needs very well. He love to play with Taylor and run around the year with Reedley. He usually will pick 2-5 toys in the morning that seem to stick with him until he is asleep. He eats with them near, he plays with them, he sleeps with them and so on. We have been working on potty training slowly and trying to let him pace it because he is still young. He does really well some days and won't do it at all other days. We usually can guess which way it is going to go. If I ask him in the morning and he tells me " Its working!" or on other days " sorry mommy its broken, its not working sorry." It is a bit of a challenge but he is so very much fun! He love boy things like balls, cars and trucks but can be the most sensative little thing around. If you catch him when he is happy he is so very fun but catch him tired and hungry and you may want to watch out. We love him despite his stubborn personality. He is a wonderful little boy and it is amazing to watch him grow. He is such a joyful blessing in our home!

Morgyn

My dear little lady, I can not believe that she is already 7 months old. I don't know where the time has gone. She is doing wonderfully. Her heart condition seems to be under control and we don't have to see the Cardiologist until Dec. WAHOO! We are so very blessed! Morgyn is a happy baby, she is not still a bit spoiled but she is lots of fun. She isn't very fond of solid baby food but she love food. She like to eat fruit out of that little mesh spoon thing. She also love the little stars and yogurt bites and crackers.

She doesn't have any teeth yet and I don't even know how much she weighs! I do know she is chubby and sweet! She has started to army crawl and is working her way to fully crawling Im not sure Im ready for that! She grows and learns new things everday and enriches and blesses our lives constantly! We are so LUCKY! to have her! I can't imagine our family had we lost her. I try to cherish that she is a healthy little one every day!

Fun Day with Family

2009-09-01T18:56:00.000-07:00

These are pictures from Sunday after Aimee got home. Just before we headed back to AZ! This is the first time we have had all the grandkids together Thanks to some strategic measures by Mom and Janis. This was also Bobs Birthday!

Idaho Summer 2009

2009-09-01T17:57:00.000-07:00

Mo and Aunt Aimee, she loved playing with her AuntiesMy Beautiful Girl in the Idaho sunshineAunti Aimee got all my kids to sleep at one point. Doesn't she look comfy! We got to pic-nic at Nana's it was really fun to share this with my kids because this is one of my favorite childhood memories.

Nana and Mo. This is the first time Nana has got to hold her.

The kids LOVE LOVE LOVE to get to go to grammys and make pizza! It makes them feel so big and very special Grammy and Mo! Best buddies from the moment she arrived!

Taylors Masterpiece

Taylor's favorite part about going to grammy's work is getting to do the dishes, she is usually soaked by the time we leave and the dishes are semi-clean

Tay showing off her shirt~ Pre race Janis, Angie(friend of mom and janis's) Mom

Daddy and his girls waiting to see Grammy come in on her bike!

Colin cheering for Grandma!

These are the shirts we made for each of the grandkids that were there to cheer grammy on!

Bunko Night! Mom with the Travlers hat! She WON!

Janis, Mom and Bob at the Losers table for a bit!

Welcome Home Aunt Aimee Here are the signs the kids made!

This post is a long time coming but here it is pictures from our blissfully cool trip to Idaho. We got to see Aimee home from her mission to Brazil, we got to watch Janis and My Mom run in a triathalon, make pizza, hang out with cousins and friends! SO MUCH FUN! OH and fishing of course! We have been back for a while getting back into the swing of things but we had LOts of fun! Here is a picture OVERLOAD!

Catch a really big one

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

Before we left Arizona to come to the wonderful land of cooler weather (IDAHO) Taylor asked if she could go fishing and catch a " REALLY BIG FISH" who better to help her with that than her uncle Bob! So we Called him up and asked if he would take her fishing. So all week she has been waiting to go fishing! Tonight was the night! My brother Robert(BOB) my uncle Neil ( Moms Brother) and My parents took Tay, Colin, Jr and Carter fishing and boy did they have fun! They fished from 4:30ish until Dark. Here is what they caught! She stuck it out through rain and hail! Way too much fun! THANKS Bob for an extra special trip!

Rain Rain come and Play

2009-07-04T10:08:00.000-07:00

Its July 3rd its raining like crazy here in the valley of the sun. We had planned on taking a quick trip to the pool when it started raining. So what did we do instead?
Skim boarding in the back yard! One more reason we love our artifical grass! Its not Bear Lake but it will have to do for this year! Hope Everyone has a Fabulous Holiday!

I Have Cute Kids

2009-07-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

Sleeping

2009-07-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

For some reason around our house sleep has been a little funny lately and we have had LOTS of pictures of it! Thanks to Josh! So I thought I would share.

Wanna be like you hoo hoo

2009-06-22T20:09:00.001-07:00

Taylor never misses an opportunity to be just like her dad. She is almost always willing to try what he does. She loves to do what he does and be just like him!

Small things

2009-06-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

I have had a pretty rough couple of weeks. Josh changing jobs and getting used to a new schedule have definatly taken a toll on us. Its moments like this sweetness that get me through. I love my kids and hope everyday that they know I love them and I am doing the best I can.

I LOVE

2009-06-07T17:00:00.000-07:00

CHUBBY BABIES! DO THEY GET ANY SWEETER THAN THIS?

My Birthday Boy

2009-06-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

Well It has happened again! My boy had another birthday and I just can't believe it! I feel like he is older than 2 but not old enough to be 2! Make sense? I know it doesn't but its still how I feel.

Colin has been singing the birthday song lately it is SO freaking cute. Then on his birthday anytime some one would start singing to him or would say happy birthday his true to age attitude would show up and he would say " NO BIRTDAY! I NO WANT IT BIRTDAY!" or "NO BIRTDAY COLIN. I NO WANT IT BIRTDAY MORGY." I loved it.

True to our nature we did nothing big for the special day but just play and do our best to make him feel extra special that day. We had been sick and had a few things that HAD to be done that day so we did our best. Also to true Kara Martin Fashion I made my loving son an ugly birthday cake that he loved! Check it out!

Happy Birthday Colin We Love you!

Cereal Time

2009-05-27T07:34:00.000-07:00

We decided that we would try Mo on some cereal last night. She will be 4 months in a little over a week. This kid loved it! No odd faces she is so funny! I expected a small scene from her. I was hoping it would help her sleep longer at night but no such luck last night! We will have to try again tonight and see.

I can't believe how quickly time is passing right now! She is growing so fast.

Garden

2009-05-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

I planted a very small garden back at the end of April. Here are the first of the crop. It isn't much but for me this is perfectly incredible. I pretty much kill EVERYTHING! Wahoo for me

San Diego Day 3,4,5

2009-05-26T20:15:00.000-07:00

Here is some picture of the last few days of our trip. Some thoughts on what I LOVE ABOUT SAN DIEGO.
1. I LOVE Sea World night shows. They are far better than the day shows and
you get to drink Hot chocolate during them. Mmmmm
2. I love watching Taylor on the beach. She loves the water just like her dad. She swam and played non-stop while we were there.
3. I love the little self serve frozen yogurt shops that are all over!
4. The weather is great.
5. I love the tourist shops at mission beach.
6. I love the Mexican restaurant in La Jolla.

Check out that BIG fish. and my cute kiddos

The Fam at La Jolla

( a cute side note)

Taylor and Colin were chasing squirrels in this little grassy area. Taylor would run after them yelling come here squirt! I loved that she was calling them squirts!

seals at la jolla

poser

the polar bear

San Diego Day 2

2009-05-22T22:34:00.000-07:00

Waiting for Shamu show to start.

They Loved the Beluga Whales.

Outside the Penguin encounter. Seeing the warm weather Penguins
Checking out the Otters.

Colin in his ride. Love this wagon.

Taylor and the Clysdale. Colin didn't want to have many pictures taken today he is far too busy.

Today we hit sea world. It didn't open until 10am and the kids were up at about 6am so after entertaining them most of the morning by the time we made it to Sea World they were already getting tired. We check out the Clysdales then the Dolphin show. Hit the Salt Water aquarium and the interactive starfish and Bat Ray exhibits then headed bay to the Hotel for some lunch and much needed naps.

Around 5:00 we headed back to Sea world for a couple of hours before they closed at 7:30pm

We miss the dolphin interaction and will have to catch it tomorrow. So after walking there and finding it was closed we walked over to the penguins and other artic animals. SO COOL! These exhibits are some of our favorite in the park. We caught the last Shamu show at 7:00pm and grabbed some dinner and are headed to bed.
Another crazy fun day. Tomorrow: Beach in the am, Lunch, naps and Sea World in the evening I can't believe how fast the days are going.

Family Picture... Only 400 miles away

2009-05-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

Here is the picture that Jarom took from his work in Phoenix while we were at wave house.

We are the little blog of tourist looking people! :)

VACATION TIME! SAN DIEGO DAY 1

2009-05-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

We jumped in the car this moring and headed to San Diego. Wahoo! What an awesome time so far. Here is what we did on day 1.
Left Phoenix and 90 degree weather at 6am and headed to San Diego we got here about noon and it was right around 70! Wonderful! First off we hit the Wave House where Josh got to spend an hour playing in the flowrider. He did great. He of course was a bit disappointed the hour went so quickly and he didn't get as "good" as he wanted to. While we were there Jarom jumped on the wave house San Diego website and took a family photo for us via the live cam! So fun!!!! When we get that picture I will post it. We played on the beach for a while and in the ocean just a bit cause it was a little cool with the wind for Morgyn to be out too long. So we went and swam in an indoor pool that is at wavehouse. After swimming and checking into our hotel we went back over to mission beach to have dinner. We love this place that has roof top dining its called Canes Cantina. We have eaten there one time before. While eating dinner and watching the sunset, surfers and paddle boarders we saw DOLPHINS! I was so excited. I have only seen them in the wild one other time. Taylor even saw them! I got a few pictures so there you have it our first day. Check back tomorrow for more FUN! (Picture are in reverse order :) )

Ice cream after dinner

Mom and Tay at dinner

Dad and Colin at dinner

Our Dolphin entertainment

Tay Ocean behind her at dinner she looks perrty

Tay playing in the sand at Wavehouse

Josh on the flowrider

Mom and Mo on the beach

Dad and kids by the water

New Project!

2009-05-14T23:27:00.000-07:00

Well I fell in love with a new project! Watches! We Started making them at a church activity and I have had LOADS of compliments on mine so I decided to expand and with much help from my friend Joanna we have started a little business making watch bands. We are going to be selling them as soon as the watch faces come in. They are all custom and individual. This is what we worked on tonight while I hosted a Slumber Party for Tay and some of her friends. Loads of fun!

Which would you buy? Which is your favorite?

Morgyn's Blessing

2009-05-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

Josh and Mo she looks so sweet sleeping with her dad. I put a red bow in her hair to remind of us her special little heart and in support of the American Heart Association.

Mo wasn't so into pictures so I didn't get very many. I keep saying Im going to put her dress back on and take some more but of course I haven't done that yet. Bob and Carter

Cowboy buddies

Cousins hanging out Saturday Morning

Mom and Dad with our kiddos, this time Colin didnt want pictures.

For those of you that don't know my mom she is the one that delivered Morgyn.

We blessed Morgyn the Sunday after Easter. Mom and Dad were able to come and Bob and Carter made the trip also. It was great to see them. We stayed at the Arizona Grand for fun on Friday night and played all day in the pool on Saturday. Getting plenty of sun and wearing everyone out. Friday night we also went to Rustlers Roose it was kind of late when we were there so all the kids fell asleep. It was great to have family and friends there.

Easter

2009-05-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

Taylor's Basket

Colin's basket

Enjoying The eggs they discovered Easter morning.

Taylor was very excited to leave carrots out for the easter bunny and even more thrilled that the bunny ate most of them!

Before an egg hunt. Colin not such a fan of pictures that day.

Its late but here are some pictures. Easter was a bit like Christmas at our house this year. We don't usually do big baskets like this but the kids needed new clothes and I found a great deal on leapsters. We knew they would be great when we travel this summer.

Updates

2009-05-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

Well it has been brought to my attention that I haven't updated the blog in a while. I can't believe another month or 3 weeks has gone by. Time is moving way too quickly. I want it to slow down but at the same time I am anxious for the future. Things like: A trip to Disneyland and Sea World, getting to meet Grandma and Grandpa Swallow, Aimee and Rjay coming home at the end of the summer and in the fall. It seems like all that will happen in such a short amount of time. We seem to keep busy even though I keep thinking we will slow down here pretty soon!

MO SMILES!!

2009-04-11T10:32:00.000-07:00

I finally caught some Smiles from Mo this week! She is growing still like crazy! She is beautiful!!!

Blonde Boy

2009-04-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

Well I did the unthinkable according to some. While getting my hair done the hairdresser had some extra bleach and we decided to bleach Colin's little mohawk! He didn't mind it a bit! He wasn't very still ( but is he ever?) so it has some brown still in it but he is cute no matter what!

Here he is!

Build a bear party

2009-04-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

Taylor got to go to a birthday party at build a bear! What a great place. The kids all enjoyed it and Taylor has hardly let that bear go! She named her bear Taylor stars and now wants to name all her dolls and animals with shape names. A bit odd :) This was only the second birthday party taylor has been to since she has really gotten the entire birthday concept and I am hearing it daily about how she didn't get a party!

2 Months

2009-04-03T14:38:00.000-07:00

Well it is the first friday in April and guess what that means! Our Morgyn is 2 months old! I cannot believe it (well 8 weeks old today and 2month on the 6th.) I often sit in awe that we have her home safe and HEALTHY!!!! They told us when she was first taken to the NICU that she could be spending 6-8weeks in the ICU! I can't imagine just getting her chunky smiling face home. I cannot give enough thanks to our heavenly father that she is healthy and growing like crazy. She is weighing in at about 11lbs these days and has the cheeks to prove it. She is a wonderful blessing in out home. Her brother and sister adore her and Josh and I love to sit and hold her and love on her constantly. She lifts her head like a champ and is smiling alot. I have yet to catch one on camera. The times I have tried they are fuzzy cause she is WIGGLY! She moves all the time unless she is asleep.

Backyard

2009-04-03T13:47:00.000-07:00

Before

After

We finished our Backyard last weekend and it only took us about a day and a half total!!! It is awesome to have another place for the kids to play and they are loving it! I enjoy having a place to layout and get some of that arizona springtime sun!

Link to Video of Tay's Dance

2009-03-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBfMkFE0xZE
Lady Bug Dance

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8DId-NAOYQ
The Macarena

Lightroom

2009-03-24T07:43:00.000-07:00

So I recently got lightroom and have been playing around with it. I probably need to read a book on it or something so that I can get the desired results out of my pictures but I spent some time just trying out all the random features yesterday and here is what I got that I kind of liked!

Taylor's Dance Recital

2009-03-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

Here is a video ( hopefully) of Taylor's Dance recital. She worked really hard in her class every week and i think she learned a lot and she looks super cute. Great work Tay!!

Surgery Cost

2009-03-23T10:53:00.001-07:00

I realized I never did post the correct answer!!! It was 93,900 that was just for the 1 dr who did the surgery! It was worth it of course but WOW! I should be an infant heart surgeon!!!

Cardiologist Follow up

2009-03-18T18:29:00.000-07:00

We visited the Cardiologist for Morgyn's one month appointment today. She is doing AWESOME! She said she is healing perfectly and we are at very low risk for having to ever have to repeat the procedure. He said she has about a 1 in 5 chance of having her valve not grow with her and one day she may have to go through the entire thing again. All in all really really good news! We are so grateful!

Announcing

2009-03-10T16:57:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the announcments that I made for Morgyn. Its cute but isn't the one we chose. I thought I would let you all see anyway! If I don't have your email make sure you send it to me so that you can get your announcement when I finish the final product!
By the way Morgyn is doing great! She is gaining weight and growing like crazy!

Doctors

2009-03-06T15:48:00.000-08:00

Well we had really really great Doctors while we spent time at St. Joseph's Hospital. I had no idea how great though! We were looking through some statements that show how much each Doctor got paid and I want to know what you think. :) I am going to post a poll on how much you think that Morgyn's Surgery Cost. Cast your vote. Just for fun because my original guess was WAY off.

Fun Day with cousins

2009-03-04T20:20:00.000-08:00

We had a fun day up in Glendale playing with family and celebrating the twin's birthday! Happy birthday brooks and trace

Me (with my new hair) and My Girls

2009-02-27T12:11:00.000-08:00

Tay and I were having a good time taking pictures. Just us girls! And you can see my new do!

update

2009-02-25T11:04:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of the kiddos! Morgyn is doing great. She hasn't had any problems since she has been home. Colin is loving his new sister. He also has a few new obsessions... hats and this princess bucket of toys that he carries everywhere. Taylor LOVEs her new sister also. She thinks she is nearly big enough to take care of her all on her own. Dad is back to work but wishing he could be home with the rest of us. I am working toward figuring this whole 3 kids thing out. I have managed to go grocery shopping, make dinner (at least twice) and keep the house from being a total disater! So i guess i am surviving :)

Home Sweet Home

2009-02-16T18:21:00.000-08:00

We brought Morgyn Home Yesterday!!! She is doing well. She kept us up most the night but that is what new borns do right! She is on a Monitor and we have oxygen just in case but haven't needed to use it yet. She goes to see the Cardiologist on Wednesday for her Post-op check up. Im sure he will have good things to say. It is so nice to be home in our own space. The kids are really enjoying us all being together. They kind of think she is a doll to be passed around and are quickly learing that she may not be just a toy.

WELCOME HOME MORGYN!!!!!

Ready to go home!

2009-02-14T19:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day all! I am so excited to inform everyone that Morgyn gets to come home tomorrow! It was going to be today but she hasn't had a stinking hearing test yet so we have to wait until morning! So here we are one last night at the Hospital. She is doing pretty well but we will be taking her home with oxygen but hopefully won't have to keep in on too long. I am just so glad we get to go home and be a family! Wahoo no more fighting myself about where I should be. We'll let you know how it goes in a couple days!