Camping 2012

A couple weeks ago marked our 3rd annual camping trip with my siblings.  And yet again, it did not disappoint.  The kids, 15 now between us, were super excited to hit the woods and water for the weekend and the grown ups were happy to oblige.  

All 15 cousins

For a family that never camped growing up (minus one memory of a tent in our backyard) I am pretty proud of the setup we somehow accomplish for the weekend.  We cram 1 camper and 5 tents on two lots and have a blast.


This year we talked Daddy into staying with us overnight (kinda tough to tell your pregnant wife you are going home to bed while she stays with your two sons) - so of course the air mattress was on the top of the packing list for Daddy and he was a great sport the entire weekend.

Chris has the tent setup and air mattress inflated within the first 20 minutes of setting up camp...priorities people!

We have to give proper thanks to Uncle Kathan and Aunt Beth who organize this every year and provide the boat and water fun...and this year was our first as a family to enjoy this aspect.  Quinton was old enough to stay the whole day and WANTED to be on the boat and tube the whole time.  Shayden on the other hand had to be convinced to just try the tube and thankfully loved every minute of it.

Both boys 1st tube ride and 1st boat ride...what a great memory.

All in all it was a wonderful time with my family and memories I will cherish with the boys always.  Thankfully the weather was awesome this year and the air mattress really was nice!  Here is the official family shot in front of the tent...and please be gracious in your judgement of me (sweltering heat and pregnancy don't treat me kindly in the looks department).

Happy 2nd Birthday Quinton

Today marks another year for Quinton!  He is a very proud little two year old, even though half of the time if you ask him if he is two, he says "no".

While he has been sick all week, poor guy, he perked up for a quick visit to the toy store this morning and picked his birthday present out all by himself.  To our joy and  appreciation it was a lovely $5 plastic chainsaw...well done Quinton!

Tomorrow we celebrate with the family and hopefully a happy and healthy little boy.

Quinton, you are a complete joy!  You have the sweetest and also orneriest disposition.  You constantly share with Shayden and are always willing to love on others.  You are the best cuddler in the family and your early morning snuggles are priceless.  We are thoroughly enjoying watching your personality come through as you learn to voice your opinions and desires more and more.  We can't wait to watch you grow and become a big brother.  

All our love!

A few pics to mark the last 2 years...

1 day

6 months

1 year

1.5 years

2 years

Baby Makes Three

We are super pumped and excited to announce the arrival of Baby Testa #3 in October.

While it has taken me some time to post, it is not due to lack of enthusiasm, just busy with two toddlers and life.  We are 22 weeks along and our due date is currently Oct. 17th.  As of right now Baby weighs 1 pound....incredible!  

Shayden took the first baby bump picture...well done buddy!

(14 weeks)

(21 weeks)

As a mom I think I will always cherish the moment we told Shayden and Quinton about the baby.  For some back history, Shayden has been praying for a baby for months...serious praying people.  We are talking at least once a day and many times with passion and conviction.  He has a whole-hearted love for babies and desperately wanted one to make a debut in our family SOON.  I am so thankful and grateful for his precious heart and for the technology that captured that moment in time. (will get from Chris' computer later to share with you).

We had our big ultrasound Tuesday and I held my ground on not finding out the sex, even though Shayden and Daddy were begging from the sidelines.  I have really wanted this pregnancy to contain elements that the others didn't - and that major factor being the surprise in the delivery room when they announce if you have a boy or girl. 

We are moving from a family of 4 to 5 and very excited about all God has blessed us with thus far!  We can't wait to meet you Baby!

Fragaria

This morning as I was enjoying my bowl of cherrios, piled high with strawberries, I decided I really wanted some fresh strawberries - picked from the field and plopped in my bowl kinda fresh.  So, we strapped on the galoshes, pulled on our rain coats and picked up Grandma for an adventure to the strawberry patch.  

Most would say the weather was not picking appropriate with two toddlers but the rain kept hardly anyone from joining us in the patch and also kept my two little ones busy picking till their bellies were full and running around the field until they were exhausted.

For a last minute adventure it was perfect!

Quinton with a mouth full and working on another

Shayden attempting to convince me he likes the white ones

Rainy day keeping the crowds at bay

The wet but happy crew

Success!