Bouncing, Pouncing, We love Bouncing!

There's not a lot going on here in the Klein household. We have had kind of an eventful week, but nothing really to write home about. Jake is playing lots and lots of softball, and the kids and I go and watch him when we can. We took Rohne to the Doctor, which takes lots of gas, and I am tired of going there. Don't even get me started on the $4.19/gallon gas prices. I feel like we should just hole up, and stay home, because who can reallly afford to drive anywhere? Back to the point. . . the highlight of our week, was the Bumstead kids Birthday Party. It was at The Bouncy Place, and the kids had a blast. They ran, and jumped, and got loaded up with sugar and treats. Jake went with us too, and I think that he had just as much fun as all the children. Sorry, I wish I had something better to talk about. We're just "Livin' Life, and trying to Love it."

Jake took our kids, and many others, down the slide. They wouldn't let him rest! But, I think he got a good work out, while I chatted with all the other moms.

I seemed to have gotten twice as many pictures of Taylee than of Rohne. He wasn't much interested in posing.

Samantha, and my kids. I couldn't get Sam to look at the camera.

This is of Taylee, when she got out of bed this morning. I just thought she looked beautiful.

Memorial Day Boating Trip

Late last night, we got a call from some friends of ours in our ward asking us to go boating with them today. It sounded like a great family activity, so we left for Lake Sammamish bright and early this morning. The weather was a little cool at first, but it really warmed up, and we had a wonderful time. All the boys (with the exception of Rohne), went wakeboarding, and I thought that it looked fun, so I decided to try it too. We have no pictures to prove it, because our camera ran out of batteries as soon as it was my turn. I tried probably 8 times, got up 6, and only stayed up 4 or 5 seconds. But, I was really getting the hang of it at the end, and can't wait to go again.


Tay, Rohne, and just a few of our friends we went with. The kids had so much fun playing around with the older kids. And, they were so nice to our little ones.

Rohne enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Our little princess model. She begged me to keep her clothes off the whole day, so she could run around in her swimming suit. After awhile, I was so tired of her whining, that I just let her run free, even if she froze.

Yeah, I pretty much stayed covered. But, I don't have the body of a 3 year old!!

Chillin' at the front of the boat.

Jake demonstrating his mad skills as a wakeboarder.

Jake's First Ward Activity, and Good Bishops

We have loved our new ward. I really enjoy my calling in Young Women's and Jake had his first training experience as the Activities Chairman. He has had kind of a slow start up until now, but decided to throw together a Game Show Night Activity. There were a lot of speed bumps, and other rough edges to get through, but all in all, I think he really pulled it off. Everyone I talked to said it was really fun. We played Family Feud, and Win, Lose, or Draw LDS style. Then, we had an Ice Cream Social, which was awesome, because it was a hot day outside. The games didn't really involve the kids a whole lot, so the Bishop played "Bishop Says," which turned out to be the hit of the night. I know there are those out there who remember when Bob Stoddard was our Bishop in Mountain View. He always carried candy in his pockets, and in his office, and all the kids adored him. Our Bishop reminds me a lot of him. He knows each of the primary kids by name, (Granted, our ward isn't way huge), and after church, they all search him for their sweet snack. He is such a great guy, and we feel so blessed to be surrounded by so many wonderful people. I truly believe that this is the correct place for us to be right now.

There is such a great group of kids, and believe it or not, no one was fighting or crying. Everyone just played really well with each other.

Mother's Intuition

As all you moms out there know, mother's intuition is a pretty powerful thing. The thing is with me, I'm also a very paranoid mom, so sometimes I can't decipher my intuition, and pure panic mode. I know that the Spirit can also factor into this equation too, but that can also become a challenge. Anyways, after 3 nice, sunny days in a row, we have been served rain and gloom since Tuesday. Instead of cooping myself up at home with the kids, I decided to take them to the Pottery Barn Kids Story Time. They actually sit through maybe two stories, and then just play with all the toys in the store for the rest of the time. Of course this makes me a little nervous. Who knows what kinds of grimey hands have been touching those toys? After this, the kids were still a little restless, so I went and looked at the playplace in the mall with a big, foam boat. I had told myself that if there were lots of kids I wouldn't let them play. My mistake, in thinking my kids would actually leave graciously when there were millions of kids playing. My intuition, or whatever, told me to just take them home. Too many germs, and too many kids. My stomach twisted and turned, and I kind of started panicking, which isn't unlike any other time when I'm in a public place with my kids. But, to my own detriment, I pushed it away, and let them play. They had a blast, and we actually ran into my friend, Lori, and her son, McKay, which made their day. I washed and sanitized to my delight, and left the mall an hour later feeling okay. Guess what happened next? Yesterday afternoon, Rohne got a raging fever of 103 degrees. I'm just waiting for Taylee's to follow. This rewens all our plans (not that we had any) for the rest of the week, and the weekend. Gotta trust your gut!!!

Two of the silliest kids ever.

By the way, Rohne's trial off of the shot, didn't go so well. His white blood count plummeted after a week and a half, so he is back on the shots. The good thing is, that I don't have to rush him to the hospital to get his blood checked now that he has this fever. The shot should cover it.

Jet skiing on a Hot Spring Day

Saturday it was nearing 90 degrees, which is really great for this time of year. We got invited to go jetskiing with our good friends, Clark and Lisa, and their family. It was really hot, and we were wishing for some much needed shade, but it was a fun time. Rohne loved driving, while Taylee was content just to sit and watch.

Cute pink swimming girl. She didn't get sunburned, but she did get a bad allergic reaction to the sunscreen I used on her face, so she looks burned. I should have stayed with my trusty brand, Aveeno, but I thought I would try something cheaper. Didn't work.

Jake, Clark, and Rohne going for a ride in the lake.

What's a beach trip without a little sand castle building?

The Spring Recital's a Comin'!

So, Taylee's Dance Recital is just a few weeks away. We have spent hundreds of dollars on Ballet lessons, a recital dress, and $13 tickets (no, parents aren't free) to watch our little girl dance in a show for like 3 minutes. Do not ask me why we did this. I am feeling much angst, and regret over doing it. But, she loves it. Needless to say, I am pulling her out of dance class after the recital. It's just too darn much money. And, she's 3, and probably won't become a famous ballerina someday. I am now on the lookout for a cheaper place though. I think that YMCA's and Community Centers do something a little similar. Anyways, here's a few videos of my kids showing off their talents.

Where's the Pool When Ya Need It?

Yesterday and today has been gorgeous weather! I am wishing that we had a pool for the kids to cool off in. They've been having a lot of fun playing outside, and it gives me some more chances to practice my picture taking. It is so nice to feel the sun. I also learned that our house heats up pretty quickly with all of the big windows. Hoorah for Spring!!

My cute girly girl. She can't be outside in the sun without her glasses on.

This door and steps would be a cool place to take a good picture someday. It looks so rustic and old-fashioned.

Happy Mother's Day to all Moms out there

I just wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to all my friends and family who are mothers, and to my special mother. Being a mom to 2 of the greatest kids ever has been quite the experience, and the greatest blessing of my life. Somedays it is so hard that I wonder how I will survive the next day, but the rewards make it worth it. Some of my favorite things about being a mom are the giggles, late night kisses and hugs, snuggle time, and the "I love you's." I would like to thank my mom, and my sister, Holly, most of all, for teaching me how to be a mom. Although they probably don't remember teaching me, I have followed their examples, and listened to their advice. I have the greatest mom. She will forever amaze me with her unending love and concern for not only us kids, but all of her fellow beings. She is always there for me to lean on, and I can always count on her. She is also the best Grandma. My kids miss her so much, but the memories of the time they have spent with her are priceless. I love you Mom!

My very beautiful mom, and all of her grandkids. Notice that Taylee is the only girl, surrounded by 7 boys, and another one on the way. I am proud to say that Tay loves all of her boy cousins, and holds her weight pretty well around them. For those of you who care to know, I will name them, from top to bottom, then left to right.
Tyler, Shuldberg, Mom, Jed Hamblin, Zack Shuldberg, Rohne, Tay, Jake Hamblin, Cameron Shuldberg, Josh Hamblin.
The Hamblin boys are my brother, Ben, and his wife, Heidi's. And, the Shuldberg boys belong to my sister, Holly. Natali and Bryce, and Mary and Bryan have yet to add to this growing brood.

Childhood Years

While I was at my mom's house last month, we were going through my Grammie's book of stuff that she left with my mom. (She recently moved back to Wyoming after living in Montana for the last few years). It was way fun, and I came across a few "treasures" I just had to show everyone. Plus, who doesn't love reminiscing?

This is a picture of my sister, Natali, me, and my cousin Kristie playing a game at my grandparent's ranch house in Lonetree, Wyoming. Notice Natali's fashionable pink and white, polka dot dress? I think she wore that every day for like a month. Also, take note that we all have matching hair. Grammie always insisted that we look our best. This usually included me or Holly styling our own hair, and then doing our cousins and little sisters. This simple hairdo is my specialty. I do it to Taylee like every day. I guess I need to learn how to braid someday.

Natali has always been a very talented writer. She has actually written quite a few children's books I wish she would get published. This above poem is just a sample of how great she was at such a young age. I don't know how old this is, because there was no date on it. It's great, isn't it?

This is actually our ward Halloween party in 1985. They used to have the best shindigs back then. I think Holly and I are dancers. This was one of my favorite halloweens ever. We had a cousin who did Beauty pageants, and she let us borrow these outfits for dress-up. I felt so beautiful. Don't you just love our make-up?

Sorry this picture is a little crooked. I guess this was the "Charlie's Angels" era. Nowadays, if you see a picture like this, you would think that those kids would grow up to be psychopath, school shooters. But, I assure you, we all turned out just fine. In case you can't tell, I'm in the back, with my brother, Bryan, and little Nat in the front.

Big Boy Undies, and a little Dancing with the Stars

As I mentioned before, I think it's time for the dreaded potty training. Jake, of course, has been more insistent on doing this. Probably because the nightmare of Taylee's is still fresh in my mind. But, once again, I gave in, and we bought Rohne some new undies today. He chose CARS, and they are actually really cute on him. He looks so grown up, and is so proud to strut around the house without a diaper. I haven't hit the training hard core yet, because we have been so busy. When I get really serious about it, you can't leave the house for like 3 days-1 week, however long it takes. Anyways, here's a few pictures of my grown up boy.

Loverly back view. Look at those great ham musles! Can you tell we don't get much sun around here?

So proud, and so darn cute.

We love Dancing with the Stars at our house, and it's the one show our kids will watch too. Although, you will notice that their version of dancing is a little different than the professionals.

Park, Parties, Sunshine - What Else could we ask for?

We've had a lot of fun the past couple of days. It really helps that the weather is getting better, and we can spend time outside. I love being able to open the windows in the house, and smell the fresh air. I have been trying to work a little in the yard, and I have come to realize that I really don't like yard work. Probably because it is hard!! The kids and I are loving having Whit around, and even happier that she found a job that is going to pay her good, and let her work a lot. Not because she won't be around, but because she will be a lot happier when she's making moolah! Can you believe the gas prices? It can stress anyone out. Well, here's a little picture narrative of what we have been doing lately.

Baby Parker, my nephew turned 1! Monique threw a great party, and the kids had such a good time at the Klein's new house.

They have a great back yard with a little pond. The kids "fished" for a long time.

Finally, Rohne caught something! Sam and Tay just thought he was silly.

I think I am just as sad as Monique that the baby of the family turned 1. They grow up too fast! Cute little guy, isn't he?

Yesterday was the nicest day we've had since Whit has been here. It didn't stay long, but she loved feeling the heat on her skin.

We have a great little park within walking distance of our house, so we all packed a lunch, and headed out. Why is it that kids eat way better picnicking? Maybe we should have a picnic every day.

Taylee's knees and legs are already suffering from her refusal to wear pants. I make sure and keep my purse stocked with Band-Aids and antibiotic cream.

This is Rohne holding his new friend, Squirmy. Taylee wouldn't touch it, but liked to talk to it. YUCK!

We had our friends, the Cleggs, and their kids over for a little Cinco de Mayo celebration. We had tacos, 7 layer dip, cookies, and of course, a pinata. It was really fun for the kids, even though the dads ending up breaking it, because it was too hard for them. And, I am happy to report that there were no incidents. Rohne can be quite dangerous with blunt instruments.

We all have our trials. But, if we surround ourselves with good friends and family, it makes them easier to bear. We are so grateful for the wonderful people in our life. Heavenly Father does watch out for us all, and wants us to be happy.

Tagged by April. . . I'm getting to it finally!

Four places I go to over and over: We try to hit the library once a week. I am always going to Children's Hospital for Rohne. (hopefully not much longer). I have a bad obsession with Costco, including their $1.50 Polish Dogs, and pizza lately. Red Robin -my sister-in-law is a manager there, so we get to eat for free. In fact, it's the only place we ever go to eat out.

Four people who e-mail me regularly: Well, I don't do much e-mail. I mainly blog. And the 4 people who check it, and comment are my 2 sisters, and my mother. If you are reading now, hey, leave a comment, and then I'll know.

Four places I like to eat: Red Robin of course, Sizzler in Idaho Falls, Olive Garden, and good Teriyaki places with Sushi.

Four places I would like to be right now: Wherever my family is. That would be Montana, Idaho, Iowa, and Utah. I have always wanted to go to Disneyland, Hawaii, and to a nice, sunny beach by the ocean.

Four TV Shows I watch all the time: American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, Greys Anatomy, and The Office are my favorites. I have too many more which I won't name, because they are a little embarassing.

Four people I think will respond: Once again, my two sisters Holly and Natali, and my mom. And 1 more - my cousin Kristie. Have fun girls!

Oh Where, Oh Where has my Baby Boy gone?

After dragging my feet for many months, and unending nagging from my hunky husband, I finally gave in. We put the crib in storage, and Rohne slept in his "Big Boy Bed" for the first time last night. I have been hesitant to do this, because he has never been a good sleeper. And, I don't know if our bed is big enough for 2 adults, and 2 kiddos. (Which happens many a night when Tay comes walking into our room). I loved the confinement of the crib, plus, I miss my baby so much.
He did okay, and was actually pretty excited to make this new milestone. Now, we have to tackle 2 other big things. Potty training, and no more paci. If anyone has suggestions, please let me know. Gosh, I miss my baby!!

Happy, Happy, Happy! Sad, Sad, Sad, for me.

Oh, and some good news when it comes to his blood condition. We took him to the Dr. last week, and he checked his blood, and said it looks FAB. He told us to not give him any more shots to see how his body is working on its own. Whit and I took him to get a blood check yesterday, and his ANC (white blood count) was 1,116, which is awesome! He hasn't had a shot for almost 2 weeks now! We are going to keep checking him for 2 more weeks, and if it stays good, he may be home free. This is a miracle, and a blessing, and I am so grateful for a merciful Savior, and for knowledgeable Doctors, and a renowned Children's Hospital.