BABY THORNOCK

Baby Aspen's Birth

2012-02-06T18:53:00.001-07:00

It was a cold winter's night in Logan, Utah on Friday the third of February... Ok, it wasn't that cold and it probably started more late afternoon than night. I picked Steve up from school around 5 and we went to run some errands- during which I was extremely irritable and snappish and having a couple painful contractions. Upon our arrival home my husband kindly suggested I start timing them as I might be in labor. Not wanting to get my hopes up, I nevertheless complied, and realized I was having regular, painful contractions at about 5-7 minute intervals. Still not wanting to get my hopes up I decided to take a bath and see if they persisted (which whoever has recommended taking a bath to ease the pains of labor was a big, fat LIAR). When I realized that this was going to happen I immediately started preparing Bree's things to spend the night at our neighbor's and packed the last minute items for the hospital. By this time (8:00) my contractions had started coming in about 3-4 minute intervals and I knew we needed to head to the hospital. I'd been postponing going, thinking that I would have plenty of time- I labored with Bree for 17 hours, and I know, I know it gets faster and faster- but I was a little unprepared for what lay ahead. We checked into the hospital at 9:00- at which point I was having contractions about every minute and a half. I was dilated to a 6- and the nurse tried very calmly to inform me that there might not be time for me to receive my epidural... YIKES!!!!

Now I have complete respect for women who go "au naturale"- but I was NEVER planning on being one of them! Immediately I was in panic mode and my contractions suddenly felt a bajillion times worse. I asked the nurse what my other alternatives were- demerol please???! Only to be told that at the point I was at there was nothing. So my getting an epidural hinged on pumping half a bag of fluids into me before it could be administered and praying all the while that my water didn't break before then. I have no qualms about admitting that I am a big, fat baby when it comes to pain. Every contraction that came I would freak out (but I never cried, screamed, or cursed- come on, I do have SOME limitations!). On the verge of a nervous breakdown, the anesthesiologist arrived and delivered my much-desired relief. And once I got my epidural I was a different person! Laughing and joking with the doctor and nurses- and actually smiling at my husband! So after my epidural my nurse checked me again and broke my water- at this point it was about 10:15 and I was at a 9 1/2. She went to track down my doctor so we could get things rolling! Once my doctor arrived I gave 3 sets of pushes and VOILA- out comes the baby- at 10:46. So less than 2 hours after being admitted to the hospital I had given birth. It was so surreal.

Kelsey, Katie, and Nicole Hogge- my moral support and cheerleaders for the birth. Nicole was the assigned photographer- an assignment she inherited since she was there for Bree's birth as well. Before giving consent to them to watch I made sure they were "properly educated" on some of the more embarrassing aspects of childbirth and swore them to secrecy if anything of the sort occurred.

This is me- just after my epidural kicked in. I really can't imagine doing it without one, the tiny taste I got was enough to settle it in my mind that I'll probably never consider going a medication-free route.

This is my wonderful, fantastic, amazing, supportive nurse Jolene. She was INCREDIBLE! It takes a special kind of person to work this job and I can't say enough good about her!

Right after Aspen was born, they laid her on me and I helped towel her off. She was so pink and beautiful! I think in this pic I'm still in disbelief that she's out!

Doctors thought I would be having a much smaller baby than my 8.5 lb Bree- but I ended up with an 8 lb even baby- everyone keeps saying she doesn't look like a newborn at all- she's too plump and filled out! I love it.

Her blonde hair- one of the many marked differences between her and her big sister; Bree was born with a full head of dark hair.

She has rolls! I love that she's so chubby!

I love this picture! We have a similar one (Steve looking at me, looking at the baby) after Bree was born- and it's one of my favorites. We didn't plan this one either, so I think it's special.

The proud parents!

So, as many of you know- Aspen Iris Thornock was born at 10:46 pm on 2/3/2012. She was 8 lbs even and 20" long- and basically perfect! A little background to the name- going into this Steve and I had a handful of names we liked, but could never really settle on one. It was fun not having it pinned down and we were excited to wait to see what we thought would fit her. The second she came out we immediately discarded half of our names. We narrowed it down to 2 and decided on Aspen because our perception of the name fit the kind of girl we would like her to be (or aspire to be). I know it sounds like a funny way to choose, but it felt right to us. It's become tradition in my family to use a family name for a middle name- and I've spent some time reading up on both Steve and my family histories and compiling a list of potential names. Iris was my great-grandmother on my father's side.
We were released from the hospital on Sunday morning, and we are enjoying our time at home. Everyone is happy and healthy and we are extremely grateful to be parents- again. Thank you so much for your well-wishes and support. It's still a little surreal and we're all adjusting- but this is promising to be an amazing journey!

Why I Need a Cricut...

2012-01-19T19:29:00.002-07:00

To make things like this:

A mobile for baby girl.

Can you imagine cutting out each butterfly and its accompanying 2 overlays by hand?

No thank you!

So after learning how to use my mother's cricut I have become convinced that I NEED one.

Okay- maybe "need" is a bit extreme... But I remain convinced that I will never reach my full crafty potential until I accumulate one...

So... How long 'til Christmas? :)

Sew Crafty!

2011-11-10T16:06:00.001-07:00

So this project originally began as a Christmas present for Bree last year. She's super into Tinkerbell and I wanted to put my amazing sewing machine (Thank you Mom and Dad!) to use. And so I spent a few days frantically cutting and sewing, only to come to standstill because I had no frame to tie it. So while Steve and I were in Washington Steve's mom tracked down a frame for me and pitched in (Thank you Julie and Mike!) tying it.

And here it is:

Hopefully this Tinkerbell stage lasts a while...

She was so excited to have it done!

So one project down- about a million more to go. I'm trying my best to get everything done for the baby before Bree and I take off to Sacramento- and in my frenzy I somehow decided to reorganize every closet. So it's a good thing I've got loads of energy because it's being put to good use.

Halloween

2011-11-02T13:02:00.001-06:00

This year for the first time I decided to make Bree's costume... I was inspired by these cute tutu dresses I had found online (http://myworldmadebyhand.blogspot.com/2011/01/tutorial-how-to-make-tutu-halter-dress.html and http://www.my-creativeway.com/2010/06/peacock-inspired-tutu-dress.html). So it began...

6 yards each of different pink tulle- Yep that's 18 yards.

Then the slicing and tying.

The final product- a big, pink, tulle mess. That I absolutely adore.

And Bree loved it too!

And yes- it did take all 18 yards. Much to my husband's amazement. Bree had so much fun trick-or-treating. I cringed every time someone let her choose the candy because that inevitably meant another dum-dum or blow-pop. (Come on! Go for the chocolate!) I got a ton of compliments on her costume at our ward party and while we were out- so maybe I'll make a tradition of making the costumes... but no guarantees!

FRIENDS

2011-10-13T08:55:00.001-06:00

So I often joke that every thing in life can eventually be linked back to a Friend's episode (that or Seinfeld). Yesterday, I got a call from my bank about some fraudulent charges being made with my debit card exceeding $1500. And once I got over the initial panic- this episode popped into my mind. Remember the one where Monica's credit card is stolen and she decides to try and track down the woman making the charges because she thinks the woman is living a fuller life than her? Yeah, that one. And this is the best scene of the episode:

So I might like to track down whoever is pretending to me- charges included shoes, jewelry, and Apple products. Unfortunately no dance classes for me to crash and find the culprit!

I used to complain about my bank and some of their fees (take a guess who?)- but after seeing how on-the-ball they were with identifying the charges, notifying me, and resolving the issue- I'm pretty sure Chase just guaranteed my loyalty!

Christmas...

2011-10-10T11:03:00.003-06:00

I know this post is very early- but Christmas shopping and gifts are on my mind starting December 26th! And I can say that as of today I am officially done with my Christmas shopping for Bree! It's an endeavor that began December 26- and through careful sale shopping and even some couponing has resulted in this:

And here's the breakdown:

1, My Little Pony Styling Pony Pinkie Pie- Retails for $14.99 (I paid $8.99)

2. Littlest Pet Shop- Pets Only! Clubhouse- Retails for $21.99 (I paid 12.99)

3. My Little Pony Pinkie Pie Race car- Retails for $23.99 (I paid $17.99 with coupon)

4. Littlest Pet Shop 10 collectibles- Retails for $19.99 (I paid $0!, got free with little pony race car)

5. Littlest Pet set of 3 collectibles- Retails for $12.99 (I paid $0!, got free with Kohl's cash on Day after Christmas sale!)

6. My Little Pony set of 3 collectibles- Retails for $12.99 (I paid $0- also got at Kohl's Day after Christmas sale!)

7. Wand and Crown- Retail-? (I paid ?- this was actually a prize Steve and I picked out with our tickets from the arcade...)

So if I had paid retail for all my items the total would have been: $106.94!

But with my mad shopping skills I paid: $39.97!!!!!

I'm going to go ahead and give myself a nice pat on the back for planning ahead...

Pictures- No rhyme or reason

2011-10-06T15:35:00.003-06:00

So as the title says there really is no purpose behind this post- I've just noticed that over the past few months I've acquired some awesome pictures that I have not shared so even though they may be old, they're still awesome.

Ok- This was back in spring and Bree kept yelling at us from the other room, telling us about the lawn mower outside. Once I finally went to see what the fuss was about- this is what I found. And of course being the awesome parent I am- I immediately go grab my camera instead of getting her down.

Bree got this bike for Christmas and has learned how to get it out of our hall closet (if you saw how packed it is, you'd be impressed). At least her head will be protected in an accident (even if the helmet is backward), but I can't say much for the rest of her!

This was after a fun afternoon at our local community pool. Bree swore she didn't need a nap, then conked out on the living room floor. (And please I do promise that my child does manage to get dressed during the day!)

Mommy and Bree time- she always comes up to me and asks if she can snuggle. I love this little girl!

Daddy and Bree time... is a little different. (Thanks Steve Jobs- I guess we're an Apple family)

This is a familiar setting for Steve- looks like Bree caught on.

Ok, I know this is disgusting- but Steve and I are good about setting spider traps. And after all our neighbors complained about all the spiders they were getting we decided to pull out our traps and see if they were working. Um yeah. The other one was worse.

And for once here's a picture of my child smiling. It's a very rare thing to capture on camera.

Sister Bonding

2011-09-08T12:22:00.004-06:00

While I was in Sacramento my sister, Amy, had shoulder surgery. Her mother-in-law had flown in from TX to help with the kids, and my mom was there to take care of her (our mother rocks as a nurse), which left me to fill my role as entertainer. In the span of a few days we watched the following movies:

I'm pretty sure there were others smattered in there somewhere but these were the only ones I could recall. Prom and Beastly were big hits- Amy and I have a tradition of watching teen/high school movies together solely to be able to make fun of them as we watch them (I think it all started with Crossroads). I was really impressed by Beastly- it seemed like you could watch the whole movie strictly by listening to the soundtrack and guess what the characters were doing based on the song playing. :) Other treasures included Run Fatboy Run- which I've been trying to get Amy to watch for months now (it's a favorite of Steve and mine), and The Conspirator- if only because it provided a break from our rom-coms and teeny-bopper movies. But we didn't stop there... Any down time was filled with the following tv gems:

How can you not love to hate Toddlers and Tiaras? The other two (Intervention & Hoarders) are more serious subject matter- but very entertaining. (And who doesn't feel better about the state of their house after watching an episode of Hoarders?) I'm sure there was also some Project Runway, What Not to Wear, My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding, and Dance Moms included (all very educational programming...). Overall I'm sure it all served to speed along her recovery.

We're alive...

2011-09-08T11:58:00.002-06:00

Bree and I just got back from Sacramento- making our total of weeks spent on vacation= (drum roll please) 5!!! Steve, Bree, and I left for Washington on August 1st, and spent 2 1/2 weeks with his family- which included two family reunions. Then we spent a few days in Prineville, OR with my mother's side of the family in their annual skiing trip (sorry I have no pictures of any of our adventures because I'm a slacker with the camera). Steve got up on a slalom (?) ski for the first time and had a good time wake-boarding as well. Then Steve returned to Logan to prepare for the start of school while I hitched a ride to Sacramento for a couple weeks with my family. During my Sacramento trip I hit a mile-mark in my pregnancy and overnight it seemed like I gained a ton of energy. My nausea is pretty much non-existent now, and I haven't had any problems with heartburn or indigestion for a few weeks. It really took hitting this awesome stage to realize how lousy I was feeling throughout my first trimester. So my days in Sacramento were very productive- filled with shopping, swimming, painting, movie-watching, lots of eating, and catching up with old friends. Bree and I flew back on the 6th and she was an angel on the plane. We had so much fun on our various vacations and even though it's hard to say goodbye to family- especially when we live so far away- it is nice to be getting back into a routine at home. Now we're waiting for the big ultrasound in 2 weeks, while Steve is preparing for job interviews this month and the next. (Fingers crossed!)

Baby Thornock.

2011-07-21T21:08:00.002-06:00

Well I suppose our blog name can actually apply again! Yes- we are expecting baby #2 due the beginning of February! I am 12 weeks along and starting to get over the nausea- I've been extremely nauseous this pregnancy than my previous one (fingers crossed this means a boy...). Most (if not all) of our family and friends know we've been trying for a while- and we're so grateful for your love, support, and prayers during this time. We're so very excited!

I'm sorry I know some might find the picture of the "pee stick" a little gross- but after a dozen single-lined tests I was so excited to get the double-line that I took a picture of it.

Camping!

2011-07-06T12:20:00.004-06:00

I have never been much of a camper. In fact I can count the number of times I've been camping in my life on 1 hand. (4 fingers to be more accurate). Of those four times three have been since I've been married. (And of those three- two were complete failures). Needless to say Steve knew that our future as a "camping family" was hanging by a thread- and this trip needed to be a success for there to be any more future outings...

Here is Bree and I being incredibly helpful with the set-up.

Before...

After...

Overall, this trip differed from our others because it was Bree's first camping trip! And I had so much fun watching her...

Bree off exploring.

(Obviously she doesn't care where we are)

Bree throwing rocks...

Bree lounging on a rock...

Bree lounging on a rock while eating camp food...

This trip opened my eyes to a family secret... Bree is really a Daddy's girl (did you notice all the rock pictures?). It might have something to do with the fact that I would never hang upside down from a tree, but most likely it's because Steve is a really fun daddy.

Steve and Bree

(aka Papa Monkey and Baby Monkey)

Bree and Daddy sharing a laugh and a muffin

Daddy and Bree

So our camping trip was a success- largely because Bree had so much fun. So expect a few more camping posts from this summer...

She's Crafty...

2011-06-09T10:02:00.003-06:00

My sis-in-law, Rosie, recently blogged about UFO's (Un-Finished Objects). I have a lot of those around my house, and when my mom came to visit we decided to tackle a few. This is one of them.

It all started with a $3 D.I. find. I really loved the frame and figured I could find something else to do with it... We were needing something to hang all of Bree's bows on, and my friend Emily suggested using a frame.
So I painted it to match her room (with paint I already had), attached a letter "B" (which I bought from JoAnn's with a giftcard), and attached the ribbon with a staple gun (I already owned the ribbon as well)...
The Final Product! I don't consider myself especially crafty- but I really love how this turned out. It fits perfectly in Bree's room, and is MUCH easier to access all her cute bows now. And it was so cheap! So yay for craftiness!

WWMMD?

2011-05-20T12:05:00.003-06:00

One of Bree's favorite shows is Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on the Disney channel. The other day I was watching with her and I started thinking about Mickey Mouse- this little cartoon character is patience personified... He puts up with Goofy's ignorance, Donald's attitude, Pete's shenanigans, Chip and Dale's bickering, the Professor's inventions (often involving mishaps of some kind), and Daisy's selfishness. (I can't think of anything bad about Minnie, maybe it's just a mouse thing.) Anyway, Mickey is always patient with his friends and very slow to anger (I might even say his anger is non-existent). So when Bree decided to pour a cup of sugar into our flour I found myself thinking- WWMMD? What would Mickey Mouse do? No doubt he would call Toodles and there would inevitably some amazing Mouse-ke-tool (probably a giant fan, hair ribbon, or bouncy shoes- those ones always seem to come up) that would magically sort it out for me... but while Donald would complain about the mess, Mickey would just do his high-pitched giggle and tell Bree it's ok. So thank you Mickey Mouse for giving me an imaginary role model.

IDAHO! (Part 1: The Awesome Munks)

2011-04-29T19:13:00.007-06:00

Two weeks ago Steve, Bree, and I went to Idaho to visit old friends. Our favorite friends- the Munks- willingly housed, fed, and entertained us. We had so much fun with them- the night we got there (Thurs.) we ate pizza and stayed up late talking (a favorite pastime of ours- amazingly we have yet to run out of things to talk about). The next morning Kari took us to a really awesome park...

Mommy and Bree

Bree navigating the bar tunnel. She is a little monkey.

Bree talking to me from across the playground.

Bree has an obsession with sticking her tongue out...

Classic Bree- going down the slide on her belly.

Me, Baby Halle, and Bree... 3 pics and this is the best shot of Bree.

Kari and Baby Halle

With all the fun we had at the park- slides, swings, monkey bars... This part was by far Steve's favorite!

No David!

2011-04-27T11:35:00.002-06:00

Bree has a new favorite book to share with you...

n

2011-04-23T09:01:00.000-06:00

Baby Animal Days

2011-04-10T18:37:00.002-06:00

This past weekend was "Baby Animal Days" at the American West Heritage Center here in Logan. We've been looking forward to it for a while- activities included a presentation from the local zoo, viewing (and in some cases petting) baby farm animals, viewing some baby bear cubs from Bear World, various delicious food vendors (think fattening fair foods), and more. UNFORTUNATELY- it snowed all weekend long. We called ahead of time to see if they were still open, or if they were postponing the event and they told us that they were able to move the event inside. So we arrived in light sweaters ready for an indoor adventure- only to discover that "inside" meant flimsy tent canopies. I had to send Steve home for some winter jackets since it started snowing soon after we got there.
Bree and I looking at the bear cubs. I was really disappointed that we couldn't hold them (I know- why in the world would I think we could?). Bree kept calling them doggies.

Bree petting some kind of animal.

Cute baby cow. The poor animals were freezing too.

Bree braving the pigs. She was concerned about their black spots. She kept calling them "dirty".

Eventually the cold and snow became too much to stand and we called it good. Overall, we were extremely disappointed. It had all the makings to be fun, if only the weather had cooperated.

Manis, Pedis, and Masques- Oh my!

2011-01-26T18:51:00.002-07:00

My good friend Kari was feeling sorry for my husbandless existence (for those of you who don't know Steve is working on his research for his thesis in sunny Cali while Bree and I tough it out in snowy Utah), and decided to come visit me! We had such a fun, girly time filled with shopping, watching movies, eating ridiculously, and so forth... Kari brought her ADORABLE daughter, Halle, who is now 6 months old- this was the first time I got to meet her!

Isn't she so cute?
Bree wasn't quite sure... especially when Halle wanted to play with her toys.

Kari and decided to do a girl's night in spa night- complete with facials, manis, and pedis. It was such a fun trip!

Me & Kari

Me expressing my enthusiasm for the night.

Happy Halloween?

2011-01-23T21:59:00.002-07:00

Ok, Ok- I realize this post is a teensy-weensy bit belated- but we had a fun Halloween- Bree really enjoyed carving pumpkins...

And decorating Mommy with them...

We signed up to bring dessert to our ward party and wanted to try something new... I never knew my husband had such a knack for making gum-drop shapes!
Our finished product! (#1)

And #2...

We dressed up as "die-hard" Aggie fans (think zombie-ish USU gear) and Bree was a cow... but unfortunately I have no pics, so you'll just have to use your imaginations! Happy Halloween!

2!

2010-10-26T15:58:00.006-06:00

On October 15 my baby girl turned 2! I can't believe how fast these years flew by, as cliche as it sounds it really does feel like yesterday... Well, it was a fun day. Unfortunately Steve had to be out of town for a school trip, but my amazing mother (post to come) was able to come and visit and help me make the day special. We started off with a healthy breakfast...

(looks appetizing, doesn't it?)
Then we went to the Library- Bree loves the library because it has a cool fish tank and kid/toddler friendly computer games. Plus we like to check out some Mickey Mouse/Little Einstein movies too...

Then we went to IHOP for lunch... Bree was more interested in her rocket than any food. While Bree was napping we decorated the apartment. (Growing up my mom ALWAYS decorated our rooms on our birthday- while we were sleeping, it was such a fun tradition to wake up and have your room decorated...) I didn't dare do her room while she napped, but she thought this was pretty cool.

She loved the balloons the most I think.

The Birthday Girl!
Then we unwrapped presents...

Bree got these cute animal magnets for the fridge...

And a stroller... (Steve wanted to wait for her to open our present- a Melissa & Doug trainset, which she absolutely loves!)

Then it was cake time. Bree was really excited to blow out the candles.

But the smoke kind of freaked her out!

Grandma and Bree- enjoying some cake!

Mommy and Bree...

Bree is a buster, and I love her all the more for it. We enjoyed this low-key celebration, and I am enjoying every new phase we reach.

Cereal and Shoes...

2010-09-26T12:42:00.003-06:00

Bree has discovered two new passions in life- the first one is cereal... Our new place has a low cupboard where we store our cereal- and everyday Bree chooses a box (or 2 or 3) to munch on in between meal times....

Notice the box of discarded Cheerios...Captain Crunch is probably her personal favorite...
The "Just Bunches!" are probably the most annoying to clean up after though!

Bree's second latest obsession: SHOES! (come on, she's a girl!)

These are my black heels- I have to admit I'm a little proud that she's able to walk around in them! My purple flats... Steve's tennis shoes... (not the best fashion choice)

And my red sandals...

Now if only she could coordinate the shoes with the outfit, I would be really impressed!

(Side note: Amy, I found someone willing to shoe shop with you!!!)

Kick Start to Fall...

2010-09-19T12:46:00.005-06:00

For the first time in my life I actually find that I am anticipating fall and the end to summer. Summer has always been my favorite season- no doubt because it usually means no school- but now that I never have to go to school again summer no longer has a hold over me. So anxious am I for fall, that this past Saturday Steve, Bree, and I went to a local corn maze/pumpkin patch/hay maze... basically all kinds of fall fun.

To get to all the fun we had to walk past some horses, sheep, and goats... The goats were probably the friendliest I've ever seen- they loved to be pet and would lick your hand.

Then we came to the hay jump- basically a couple of hay bales stacked on each other that you jump off of into a bed of (you guessed it!) hay! Bree needed a lot of coaxing to do it alone.

On the opposite side of the hay jump was the "Super Slide"- which Bree managed to do just fine without any coaxing...

Then we navigated the hay maze (made especially for little ones like Bree). She took off full-speed, and completed it no problem.

At last we reached the corn maze... a little background to the corn maze- since Steve and I started dating (so EONS ago!) he's been telling how much he enjoys corn mazes and would like to do one together. We've never had the chance (out of town, birthing Bree, or just did not want to) until now... Steve was very excited! We thought it would be fun to let Bree lead the way and choose our paths (Steve refused to consult the map unless we were desperate)...

Steve asking Bree which way to go... I don't think this was the best strategy.

Steve told me to smuggle some corn into my diaper bag... No worries, we didn't.

Steve scouting the paths ahead to try and find a way out. Bree's asking "Where go?"

In the end I think I left with as much love of corn mazes as I had before I started (close to none). We did get lost (at which point I stopped taking pictures), but my husband did a great job finding where we were on the map and navigated us out of there!

GRADUATION!!!

2010-07-24T22:40:00.002-06:00

Well, we finally did it! As of now Steve and I can both claim to be college graduates! Steve received his BS in Geology with two really difficult clusters (think math, physics, and chemistry!) and he has done really well during his schooling. I received my BA in Psychology (and that "A" is for my many years of taking German- trust me I'm not into any arts...) with a minor in Home and Family Living (which is kind of just a fancy way to say "home economics"). We're both really excited- me probably more so since I'm not starting graduate school in a month! Don't ask me what my aspirations are with my degree- right now I'm just ecstatic to be spending my days at home with Bree and playing at housewife. (maybe even apply some of those home ec. skills once I get my hands on a sewing machine!)
Anyway, here are some of our lovely cap and gown photos. We took them up on campus in the gardens...

The Thornock Family

A Better Representation of the Thornock Family

The Happy Graduates!

Me Being Dorky...

Steve Being Dorky!

We're so grateful for the love and support of both of our families- and of course all of our friends both here in Rexburg and away (Arkansas specifically comes to mind)! This was a major accomplishment for both of us- trying to juggle school, work, church callings, family, and hobbies- but we did it!

Remember when...

2010-07-22T23:28:00.003-06:00

January 2006- I arrived in Rexburg... Freezing cold and excited. I made some friends, and had a good time.

I met my husband...

And made some more friends...

I learned to solve puzzles...

I had a baby...

I made some more friends... (?)

My family grew up... I grew up...

And made some more friends...

As Steve and I have started packing this week, I can't help but realize how far we've come in this journey of ours. We've made some great friends, and I'm so sad to leave them behind... So here's to my friends, who truly made Rexburg bearable in the Winter months, tolerable in the Spring, exciting in the Summer, and fun in Autumn! We will miss you!!!!

Dairy Days

2010-06-30T11:45:00.004-06:00

This past weekend Steve, Bree, and I went up to Provo for a wedding reception and decided to stay the night with Uncle Scott (or "Gra-pa" as Bree calls him) and Aunt Katie. It was only a quick trip, but Aunt Katie looked up all these different activities for us to do on Saturday and we narrowed it down to the Icelandic Festival, a Kid's Festival, and Dairy Days. Once we heard that Dairy Days had animals it won out for Bree.

Bree checking out the jail...

Uncle Scott experiencing jail (hopefully the only time this happens!).

Bree thinking Uncle Scott is a weirdo. (Don't worry Bree, we all think that!)

But Bree's favorite part was riding the pony! Look what a natural she is!

The Zoo- Take Two...

2010-06-21T19:24:00.002-06:00

We went to the zoo again this past weekend (Thanks to our wonderful friends- Jason and Kari- and their free passes!!!). I thought I'd try videos this time- I know they're not great quality, but it should still be fun.

Video 1: Bree and the monkeys

Video 2: Bree feeding the goats (I just love her deep chuckle!!)

Video 3: More feeding goats

Oldies, but goodies...

2010-05-19T22:35:00.004-06:00

These are some old pictures of Bree being, well, Bree... Just thought I'd share them with the rest of the world!

Fashion Show...

2010-05-03T12:40:00.002-06:00

So this week Bree got a very special gift from my AMAZING friend Emily. Emily and I were roommates for a few semesters, we were bridesmaids at each other's weddings, we took a few classes together (one during my pregnancy- which shows how amazing she is, since she had to endure me complaining day after day- and we're still friends), and she has an adorable son, Tanner. Anyone who really knows me knows that it really is quite a feat that we're still in contact- I don't have the best track record for relationships. But Emily and I talk at least once a week, with constant facebook-ing and texting in between. Anyway, Emily stays at home and basically conquers the crafting world. She has recently completed 3 quiet books, numerous sewing projects, and is now jumping into the scrapping world. Crazy, huh? (all while planning out and executing every meal of the week for her husband) She's basically one of those women that you'll never measure up to, but she would never make you feel that way. So she got the itch to make some cute girlie crafts, and decided since she has all nephews that Bree should be the beneficiary of her craftiness. So below are some pictures of what she sent:

Notice the bow in Bree's hair...

These are some other bows that she made... I love the pink and white one!

And this genius idea! Bree has been all into my make-up, but Em saw this cute craft where you take empty make-up containers and fill it in with nail polish (for color) then let it set.. and VOILA! Bree's own make-up...

She even knows how to use it already!!!

So thank you Emily!

I couldn't resist posting these next pics... When I got home today from class Steve told me to check the camera- and these are what I found. I love my rascal child!

Zoo, zoo, skip to my...?

2010-04-18T19:20:00.007-06:00

Saturday was opening day at the zoo in Idaho Falls. No, it wasn't the "grand opening"- if you are fortunate enough to live in Idaho where Winter is the predominant season then your zoo is closed 7 months of the year because it's too cold for the animals! So every year it opens around April and closes around October. I've been anticipating the opening now for weeks, I knew Bree would love it... and she did!

And we're off!

Lucky for Bree there was a petting zoo portion. Unfortunately she then thought she needed to pet ALL of the animals!

There were lions...

And tigers...

And bears...

And... Oh my!

This is my surprised face about how big pelican's mouths really are! Seriously!

Bree wasn't too impressed.

I think the monkeys recognized one of their own!

It was a really fun day, we all had a blast. Can't wait to go again!

All About Steve... Well, Mostly.

2010-03-25T20:25:00.004-06:00

So I've really been neglecting my blog- I have a list of things I still need to blog about, but this is probably the most pressing, exciting, and long overdue! Steve and I will be graduating this coming July (him with his BS in Geology and me with my BA in Psychology). Steve has been wanting to pursue his Master's, so in December we started the arduous process of selecting schools and applying. Our final four were BYU, USU, UNR, and UNLV. BYU was probably both of our last picks- in a lot of ways it would feel like moving to a bigger Rexburg, and wouldn't feel much like moving on. UNR was ideal, because it's close to home- and knowing that my husband will be very busy during his graduate studies made that a big factor. UNLV is a great school, and Steve had a great contact there. We both thought it would be a nice change (and boy would it be a change!) and we knew we wouldn't lack visitors... But it was USU that was our top pick- the professor Steve applied to is really well-known throughout the geology community, and it's a very hirable school for the field he is looking to get into (Petroleum). We've both heard such wonderful things about Logan, but after his visit there we were pretty much sold... Then came the waiting process. Steve teased me because the day after he sent in his applications I started checking the mail regularly. Well the day came when we got this letter (actually it came as an e-mail, since the department is eager to hear from prospective students as soon as possible):
So USU here we come! I am so proud of my husband and the all the hard work he has put into his studies to have reached this point. It is such a testament to him and his efforts that he would be accepted by such a sought-after professor, and with such an amazing financial package. We really feel blessed at this time in our lives, and we are so grateful to have a loving Heavenly Father watching over us and pouring out blessings upon us- we know we did not reach this point alone. I am so grateful for the support of our families and friends, and I look to forward to filling you in on this new stage of life!

Katie's not the only one with a duck fascination...

2010-03-15T10:33:00.004-06:00

Without fail the past three days Bree has gotten to go visit the ducks at our local "nature park". Of course the only day we brought the camera to take pictures it was snowy and overcast, but that didn't dampen her spirits at all. I was worried she would be scared of them... haha, oh if only.

Steve and I were pretty fearless, but the ducks liked me more!

Bree preferred to eat the bread herself, rather than share with the ducks!

But her favorite part was chasing them!

The Wonderful World of...

2010-01-24T20:45:00.004-07:00

So I've been boycotting my blog, because last time I had my post all ready then I accidentally deleted it... Now, I'm realizing it's been over a month since my last post, so I'm going to suck it up and start over. Get Excited.
Over Christmas Break we had the chance to go to....... DISNEYLAND!!! Last year, my entire family (siblings, spouses, and their children) were all able to go, but this year rotations put both my brothers with their in-laws, so the rest of us (Mom, Pops, Amy and fam) set off. We were really excited about this year, knowing Bree would enjoy it so much more than last year (what do you really enjoy when you're 3 months old?) And even though she isn't quite tall enough to ride Space Mountain or Matterhorn, we still had a blast taking her on all the little rides she wanted. So pictured below are some of our Disneyland highlights...

For Laughs...

2009-12-07T19:58:00.003-07:00

Bree was a big rascal this week (which really isn't a big change or surprise). Luckily, I am blessed with an ever-patient husband who pointed out how much more fun it would be to take pictures rather than scold. So these are some of our favorites of the past week, enjoy!

We set Bree up with this... she loves the keyboard, and since the laptop is broken we figured it probably couldn't hurt. And she's so cute.

She is so busted- I have to clean up these books at least 5 times a day. But once again, so cute.

She hasn't been able to get into our movies in a while, but someone (aka Steve) left the cupboard open- and she wasted no time getting to it and pulling EVERYTHING out!

This was just way too funny to pass up. I love it.

Snow Day!!!!

2009-11-24T15:57:00.002-07:00

The inevitable has arrived- it has finally snowed in Rexburg. We were pretty lucky this year so far, but it has to run out sometime. And since my husband is a fan of snow (I know crazy, huh?) we already had a snowsuit for Bree, just itching to get used. She didn't seem to enjoy getting into it though...

But she was pretty excited once we made it outside (see below).

And she was a little unsure about Daddy's sled ride...

But I think overall, she had a good time!

10 Honest Things... About Steve!

2009-11-06T10:33:00.003-07:00

So the other day Steve and I were running errands, talking about the blog, and somehow I got this BRILLIANT idea to do the 10 honest things post about Steve from my perspective (I feel like I know him pretty well). So keep in mind, this is Christie writing, from Steve's perspective- but my facts are accurate.

10. I fantasize about holding a world record. I sometimes think that if I were able to put in the time that professional runners put in, I could be just as good as them- probably even better.

9. On my mission I was slightly grateful I was going bald. I knew that it meant whatever girl agreed to marry me would not do so on account of my looks, but my personality. (but let's face it, I'm still pretty hot)

8. I have read the Twilight series. I would like to say that my wife 'made me'. But honestly, I did it for myself, and they're not too bad. Although how many times do I really have to hear how Edward's skin is like granite, or how he emulates the gods of Greek mythology? I do have my limits. (and I know that New Moon comes out on Nov. 20!)

7. One reason I'm excited to be done with school and have a job is so I can have the money to buy Nordstrom's dress shirts, tailored to my body. I blame that on my brother-in-law Matt. He always looks so cool in his.

6. I claim to have read Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling, but I only made it about halfway through. And getting that far took me a year.

5. I like to pick fights. This is purely subconscious. I was always in an argument when I was younger, and I claim to have grown out of it- but it still manifests itself once in a while. (Especially if it's anything geology related- *cough* evolution *cough*) :-D

4. I have a dream. A dream of one day opening up my own athletic store, something akin to "Fleetfeet". I talk about it a lot, about the products I'll have, services we'll offer, and the races we'll sponsor... It's going to happen. Just you wait.

3. I can push through just about any pain when I'm running. But even the slightest headache, nose run, or cough off the pavement is enough to make me bedridden. I'm also finicky about medicine- Tylenol PM once caused me such a night of misery I still talk about it- 2 years later! And I think the Naproxen prescribed to me when I hurt my leg is some amazing generic morphine.

2. I love telling stories to large groups. In fact, I fancy myself an excellent storyteller- though some may think I'm a little over the top. Some of my biggest hits include any running story, my first kiss (peach, plum, or alfalfa?), meeting Christie, and asking Big Curt for permission... If you haven't heard my take on any of these- ask!

1. I love learning. I think I could have studied any science and be as interested in it as I am with geology. Because I love to learn, I assume everyone else does too. So don't be surprised if we're driving and I launch into a detailed account of the geology of the area, or spout of some random-irrelevant fact. Why wouldn't you want to know?

Bree's Birthday Party!!

2009-10-27T21:48:00.004-06:00

I know Bree's birthday was a while ago, but we didn't celebrate until this past weekend because.... (drum roll, please) Grandma Martie was able to come make a special appearance!!!

We had lots of fun; playing traditional games like BINGO, pin the tail on the donkey, 2 truths and a lie, and a trivia game all about Bree!

(mine is #7!)

But, of course, the real fun in a first birthday party lies in the cake! As part of tradition Bree got her very own cake... I think she enjoyed it.

Bree's love for Alaska

2009-10-19T12:44:00.008-06:00

Grandma and Grandpa Chandler recently went on an Alaskan cruise in celebration of my Grandparents' 50th wedding anniversary. They brought Bree an Alaskan outfit that is SO cute... I just wish Bree thought so too... :-P

Steve's Marathon... Retold by Christie

2009-10-14T17:05:00.004-06:00

Okay, considering Steve's marathon was actually in June... and now it's October, I'd say I'm a little behind. But on the other hand, it is October and Steve keeps talking/complaining about his June marathon. If you talked to him he could relive the whole experience for you live, give you mile by mile updates, and it would probably go something like this:
Miles one through five: So excited! Feel great! Keeping my 6.30 goal pace, this is gonna be a breeze. Why did I limit myself to 6.30? I could probably be cranking out 5.50 miles! Why have I never been recruited to run in the Olympics?

Miles six through ten: I bet I could win Boston. Maybe I should try for the record. But then this isn't a certified course, and no olympic trainers will probably check the winning times for a marathon in Rexburg. I can't believe I'm going to have run a certified course to show those trainers.

Miles eleven through fifteen: I wonder what kind of prize I'll win. I'll probably do so well that I'll get sponsored... not by one of the big dogs like Nike or Saucony... maybe something like Powerade or Clif shots. Then they can pay for all the events I run, then I'll run more events, then people will notice how good I am, then I'll run in the Nationals, then I'll run in the Olympic trials, then I'll run in the Olympics, then I'll be famous. Wow, I love Powerade.

Miles sixteen through nineteen: Starting to hurt. Push through the pain. Don't think about it. Don't think about it. Can't stop thinking about it. Okay, what part of my body doesn't hurt? My arm, focus on the arm. Focus on the arm. Focus on the arm.

Miles twenty through twenty-four: My arm hurts. My toes hurt. My fingers hurt. Everywhere hurts. Is that sweat or blood? Lots of pain.

Miles twenty-five through twenty-six point two: Kill me now. Or at least come pick up my body from the side of the road. Screw Powerade and their sponsorship, I'm NEVER EVER going to run again. I must've been insane to do this. Did I actually used to LIKE running?

AFTERWARD: That wasn't so bad. I think I'll try for Boston.

Blame Katie

2009-09-28T11:24:00.003-06:00

I bet you really didn't think I would do this when you tagged me (Katie) see http://www.katie-newsletter.blogspot.com/ - but here we go. 10 honest things about me (Christie):
10. I have to eat some type of sweet every night. Whether it's a square of dark chocolate or a bowl of ice cream or some fruit. My eating has to end on a sweet note.
9. I cannot sleep in the dark- I need a nightlight or streetlamp or bright moon. I chalk it up to watching too many scary movies when I was a teenager.
8. Whenever I roadtrip with Steve (which seems to be quite often) I make him play dumb games with me such as "the doctor's cat", the alphabet game, memorization games, and simple q&a games with me always asking the question, "If you could teleport, but only had a limited number of times it would work, would you use one of them right now?" (I almost always say yes).
7. I pretend to resent my brother Scott for encouraging my husband to watch professional sports. My once ESPN/SC free house is no more. But secretly I think every man should like sports. :-D
6. I have memorized certain church facts just for the sake of being able to 'dazzle' people with my wisdom (such as listing off the prophets of the church in order, naming the 12 tribes, etc.) Even more revealing, my husband encouraged me to do this.
5. I have a recurring daydream about reliving my life knowing everything I do now. I fantasize about things I would change and often I end up meeting Steve and trying to convince him that he really is supposed to marry me by freaking him out and telling him all these things about himself that no one else knows.
4. Every time I listen to any Red Hot Chili Pepper song I remember going to their concert and how much fun I had. Just hearing their music is an instant endorphin release because of the memories associated with it.
3. I love that my husband is a runner. Honestly, I love that he is a GOOD runner. Although I hated the time marathon training took, I was (and am) so proud of his athletic accomplishments. There's something satisfying to my ego to be able to cheer him on when he places at events, it's like rubbing it in everyone's face, "Yeah, I know him."
2. Every week I read the Miss Manners and Dear Prudence columns on slate and msn. Miss Manners is published every monday and Dear Prudence every thursday- I never miss them. I have even read all the old archived columns, so I can honestly say I have read EVERY single one.
1. I HATE crying. I feel like it's a weakness and I have special "tricks" to stop it- BUT I tear up at random commercials. Like the Applebee's ones about doing service, or the alarm system ones where people are breaking into the house.

Alright, enough about me. Time to tag some others.
I'll second Katie's tags to Amy and Sara, and extend some to:
Kari M.
Ashleigh T.
Rosie T.

Silly Bree...

2009-05-27T18:23:00.003-06:00

Bree has been extra silly this week, providing us with some fun pictures. The first one is dedicated to her cousin Sterling, because we call this face she makes (which she does pretty often!) her "Sterling face" due to the scrunching of the nose. Next, Bree fell asleep on the floor. And lastly, after a hot walk with a hat on, Bree proves she is definitely her mother's daughter with the awesome hairdo.

Christmas in May!

2009-05-19T10:50:00.006-06:00

Courtesy to Aunt Amy and Grandma Martie, Christmas came a little early this year... Word spread that Bree was starting to grow out of her clothes (as babies tend to do), and not wanting her to run around naked...

They sent a package full of adorable outfits for the summer months to come!

Now she's all set for whatever lies ahead!

CRAWLING!!!

2009-05-17T20:26:00.004-06:00

This isn't the best she does, but you get the idea!

HAPPY EASTERS!!!

2009-05-02T19:43:00.001-06:00

Rexburgian Weather

2009-03-22T20:01:00.004-06:00

We're working on getting Bree to sit up all on her own... hence the pillows surrounding her. I noticed the other day that Bree's hair is never done in pictures I post (mostly because all pictures are taken at home). But nobody worry, my child does not look like a "raggamuffin" (as Grandma Martie would say) when we're out and about.

Rexburg had some pretty decent weather this week, so Bree got to sport some cute summer dresses that I was a little worried she would outgrow before it ever warmed up...

Alas, all good things must come to an end. I think busting out the summer dresses in March might have been a bit premature.

Yay for Green Beans!

2009-03-02T13:28:00.008-07:00

Bree has recently been introduced to the spoon. Our attempts to feed her rice cereal with said spoon did not illicit any pleasant responses. Ergo plan B: Green Beans!

Look at her face! She was as shocked as we were that green beans could be enjoyable in mush form. We are very glad she loved them, and now we can actually imagine our child one day eating more than milk from a bottle (I kept envisioning 15 year old Bree still refusing to use a spoon). Needless to say, Bree is happy, so we're happy.

Bree's New Trick!

2009-02-13T20:11:00.002-07:00

The Giggle Monster

2009-02-07T15:24:00.004-07:00

Who knew that pillows could be so funny?!

You may want to pause the awesome "It's A Girl!" music to get the full effect of Bree, the Giggle Monster.

One Little Monkey Family

2009-02-04T12:35:00.003-07:00

As you can see Bree is a big monkey. And when I say big monkey I mean, I am like a female orangutan. You know, like the ones on the movie Planet Earth that Steve always makes me watch. There's a scene with the monkeys and all the baby monkeys are always draped on the front or back or side of the momma monkeys. Let me tell you, Bree is getting to be a bigger baby chimp than she used to be! She is going on a whopping 12 lbs and 2 feet now! That and she's wearing big monkey pajamas in the picture.

Her favorite activities still include eating, sleeping, and bathing- but now we can add playing (or any attention receiving activity). You should see when she baths! She gets really active, all splashing and kicking. We're pretty sure that she'll grow up to be an elegant synchronized swimmer. She's just in practice.

Hope you enjoy the pictures everybody!

Love, Christie

Breezee the Kitten

2008-11-03T12:14:00.008-07:00

Bree is growing up healthy and strong- in the two and a half weeks since her birth she has regained her birth weight and grown an inch and 3/4. She has quite a set of lungs on her- which she proudly shows us at all hours of the night.

She was a bit young for trick or treating this year, but we dressed her up anyway. I mean, who can resist giving candy to the parents of an adorable kitten. With Steve's posing skills and a crying kitty, I could potentially have tricked enough treats to last me until Christmas. Of course, I didn't do that because I can't take her out quite yet, and I would hope the citizens of Rexburg would call social services if I were feeding candy to a one-month old... but I thought about the plot none-the-less.

Bree's hair seems to be getting more thick and blonde everyday. Her favorite past times (in order) include eating, sleeping, getting her head washed, and passing gas.

8 lbs 4 oz, 19 inches

2008-10-15T16:45:00.004-06:00

Christie's water broke yesterday (October 14, 2008) at 7:36 PM, and Baby Bree came shortly thereafter! (Pictured above with Grandma Chandler)

Baby Bree is coming to town...

2008-10-13T17:11:00.003-06:00

You better watch out,

She probably will cry,

Christie will pout,

if birthing isn't nigh.

Baby Bree is coming.... to town!

That's right anxious fans, Christie was dialated and 75% effaced this weekend, which means that Baby Bree could be entering this world any day now. Grandma Chandler is already in Rexburg waiting to spoil this babe from day 1. This means that there are only a few days left to get in on the Baby Pool. Email Katie with your best guess.

What You've All Been Waiting For... THE NURSERY!

2008-09-26T17:45:00.009-06:00

Now that we're back in Rexburg for the semester and in our very nice, new abode, we decided it was about time we set up the nursery for Baby Bree. (That's right, after a grueling poll of the country, a.k.a five votes all from Scott, Steve-o and I finally decided to name our beautiful fetus Bree.) After all, there are only a few days left... hopefully just one or less... until the next Thornock graces us with her presence.

Luckily, Big Curt and Mom were coming into the area (or there's a good possibility that we coerced them into coming up to Rexburg for this very purpose) and could help us finance an amazingly girly, pink nursery. Actually, the official colors of Bree's nursery are pink and green.

I had previously wandered the "new baby" departments of any store I entered searching for outfits and decorations. I found the Thank Heavens caterpillar at Kohl's.

To personalize Bree's new area and help us all adjust to the new name (previously Baby Scott, then when we knew it was a girl but didn't finalize a name, Scottina), I painted wooden letters B-R-E-E in trendy, matching patterns and hung them with ribbon.

Furniture was provided by parents, including my favorite piece the rocking chair! I can't wait to rock an already sleeping, quiet, beautiful Bree and smell her Johnson and Johnson lavendar sleepy lotion. LOVE baby smell!

Now if she'd only come! Tonight? Tomorrow? I'm good with either.

Sacramento Baby Shower

2008-08-27T18:12:00.007-06:00

On Thusday of last week I had my one and only baby shower for our baby girl. I know some of you Rexburgians may be offended that I didn't have my extra exciting baby shower in the 'burg, but I felt like it would be the best idea for the following reasons:

1. Steve and I needed a break from this grueling summer semester. So we took a road trip to Sacramento (before I can't travel any more) to visit the fam.

2. My sister, Amy, is the most amazing party planner you will ever find. She has connections and class, which amount to fantastic times on her behalf.

3. Rexburg is a baby making machine. If the local newspaper had a column with all the babies born in Rexburg, it would be serious competition for the obituaries. Many of the women in my college ward are also preggo or have little ones already. I can't possibly expect my starving student friends to help my little baby come into this world in style.

4. I CAN expect my long time friends of Sacramento, who watched me grow up, get married, and come back with a huge belly, to provide glorious gifts!

The party was a blast! Thanks, Amy.

Michelle and Erik's Wedding

2008-08-01T11:05:00.004-06:00

These lovely pictures were taken at Erik and Michelle's wedding reception in Kennewick, WA in May. Yes, I believe Steve is wearing brown overalls. They go great with wife, Christie's hot pink outfit. (Notice little baby belly) -->

<-- This is Christie dancin' it up. I'm sensing that some Sprinkler action is about to happen.

How It All Began

2008-03-01T20:00:00.005-07:00

It was one Lonely semester. Steve was in Central Utah staring at drills for a semester-long internship (He's going to be a geologist someday!). I kept myself busy, sort of, making home decorations in my sewing class and watching way too much TV. After exhausting my iPod from repeat episodes of The Office and House, I can successfully quote whole episodes. Too bad that skill couldn't get me an 'A' in Child Psychology.

Steve had a break from his remotely-located job every few weeks. I often spent time with my brother, Scott, and his fiancee in Provo, so Steve and I could take full advantage of the break. Around February, though, Steve had a nice, two week long, mid-semester break. He drove from "out in the middle of nowhere" (an hour outside of Heber) to Rexburg. I was so excited to see him, (and let's just be honest, have someone else in the house) that I'm pretty sure when Robin Thicke came on, there were no precautions.

...

A few weeks later I wasn't feeling so well. With the bitter cold of Rexburg winters, catching the flu isn't out of the ordinary. So after an episode in the bathroom, I went in routine-type fashion to the doctors office for possibly a prescription antibiotic. He explained that what I was feeling was not the flu, but morning sickness symptoms. He showed me the first scene of Look Who's Talking, and sent me on my way with advice to get What To Expect When You're Expecting from our local DI. He said that during our next appointment we would watch The Miracle of Life!

And THAT is how it all began...