{life...}

{TATE}

I can't even remember if I have posted this already. (and too lazy to scroll through to make certain!) Tate did this project with me and I think it was finally one that held his attention. Unlike Livia and I, he is not very into the crafts and projects moments. He is very proud of his shirt and I am hoping it might replace the three year old soccer jersey that is worn a minimum of 6 times a week! He just knows what he likes right? I am very impressed with how he has handled having Brigg join the family. He has never really been into babies when cousins were born so I was bit worried. I know now that there was no need- he loves his baby brother so very much. We were at the store with some friends and his little buddy said that our baby looked kind of weird - I know it is true because I basically deliver a fetus not a full grown baby and let's face it they are probably only cute to our family. Well, Mr. Tate was not having it! I had to hold him back from going after the kid who made the comment. Don't mess with our baby or Tate will will be the one you have to reckon with. Tate is a great kid- passionate, a little unpredictable- but definitely very lovable.

demolition derby......

Tate and Livia had the time of their lives at the demolition derby last Saturday. Now Chad and their Uncle Shane want to enter the derby next year. Chad took some great video but for some reason it will not upload. Sadly I was stuck at home being the paranoid mom with Brigg. I know I have to start venturing out with him more but the county fair just did not seem like the best choice- even Chad agreed. Tate has not stopped talking about the experience and now plays for hours with his cars having derbies of his own.

first day of School........

The kids are really enjoying school and the fact that they have some really special teachers definitely helps! I love watching them walk to the bus together in the mornings. It is so nice that they have each other. It makes me feel like Brigg needs a sibling that is close in age to him so he can experience a built in friend in the family. No matter how bad Tate and Livia fight with each other they are always fiercely protective and loyal to each other. Don't you remember that?- you can gripe about your sister but if someone also does or even agrees with you for that matter- you just want to beat them up! I really miss these guys during the day........I thought i wouldn't but I actually do.

{dance}

Livia had a dance recital last week where she got to show us what she has been working on all summer. It was precious! She always amazes me- she is so shy and timid and always FREAKS out before a recital or primary program and then the minute she gets on stage she just shines. We were so very proud of her and her skills!

a very HOT surprise from Chad......

Last weekend Chad surprised us by taking our little family to a resort in the Valley. I was so excited to get out of my house and Flagstaff that I did not stop to think just how hot the valley is this time of year {no wonder the rates were so good on our suite!} We actually had a lot of fun in the sun thanks to pools and water slides and a lazy river. Poor little Brigg and I ended up in the Hotel room while Chad and the kids played. I was just thrilled to have different walls to look at! Here are a couple of Pictures from our stay. The kids were able to watch Shark Tails while floating in the pool Friday night. It was called a Swim In Movie Theatre- too fun!

what I have been waiting for........

In the quiet moments........

Another pic by Di

This little guy has turned my world upside down...........and I just love it. It is like Christmas morning every day. I wake up and remember this little present I have been given and I just smile. I can NOT stop kissing on him. He is getting chubbier by the day and he cuddles more than any baby I have had. I am still learning how to be a functional mom of three and counting the days for school to start. Livia and Tate are so good at helping with this baby. I fear that Brigg is going to be quite spoiled by his siblings. I was rocking Brigg in my arms last night and I was completely exhausted and wondering how I was ever going to finally feel rested and then I remembered how long I had been wishing for this opportunity. It put the wind back into my sails and I woke this morning ready to serve my little family. Babies just make me a better person- less selfish...........

Mom's visit

{my boys}

Pictures by Di

diphotography.blogspot.com

Let the fun begin!

Sweet Nicole stopped by the hospital

Sisters- remember I just had a baby! The face is a bit embarrassing.............

My sister sweetie pie!

Grandma Rhoton with her newest addition

So the past month of LIVING at the hospital has finally come to an end. As crazy as it sounds I miss the NICU. Yes, I am very happy to have Briggy D. at home but the friendships I made with everyone were very special. The ladies (and few guys) that work with these babies are some of the most special individuals I have ever crossed paths with. I love them dearly and could not be more thankful for the start they have given to Brigg's life. We are home now and back to reality. Lot's of laundry and late nights and cries and it all could not make me any happier. Never again will I take for granted the daily happenings of a normal life! My mom is bringing the kids home tomorrow and we will finally be a family of five for the very first time. Brigg is on oxygen and is doing just great. He has the sweetest disposition and has the cutest way of cuddling into your neck. Chad and I have enjoyed just living in the moment with this little baby boy. More pictures to come.

Brigg Darwin Rhoton

Brigg weighs 5 pounds today!!! He is above his birth weight which means of course he is one step closer to coming home. Everybody celebrate tonight by eating 5 lbs of your favorite dessert!!!