Audrik is Big 2!

June 7th was Audrik's second birthday. Kurt and Draven happened to be in Montana helping his parents move so we didn't celebrate until the 8th. When Drave got home I told him that it was Audrik's birthday and the first thing he wanted to know is if Audrik was big now. Of course, he had to go check right away waking Audrik up from his nap. I was sure Drave would come back disappointed because Audrik looked the same but instead he came back so excited because Audrik was BIG! He now tells anyone that will listen how he is a GIANT 5 and Audrik is a BIG 2! It was a pretty low key birthday but it was still lots of fun. Kurt's brothers, Luke and Derek, were here and my parents, brother, Jim, his wife, Britanie, my cousin, Cheilah, and her daughter, Kenna, all came to help us celebrate. We had pizza and white cake with whip cream and fresh fruit - YUMMY!

Audrik is so much fun and I can't believe how much he adds to our little family. He is so different than Draven. Draven loves people but has been happy to play on his own since he was a little guy. Audrik has never liked to be alone. He always wants to be right in the middle of the group. He also has a little temper. If he doesn't get his way he will scream, throw himself on the floor and sob. It is so sad! I guess the redhair should have been a sign :). He loves food, baths, and outside! He hates his diaper. That kid has painted more poop picasso's than any kid should! He is stripping every chance he gets. It is a constant cause of frustration with Kurt and I. Audrik is also a smart little stink. Anything we do to baby proof our house he has figured out. Needless to say, he is in everything! I love to watch Audrik and Draven together. They have so much fun and get along great.

Draven and Audrik when Audrik was born.

6 months old

1 year old

18 months old

2 years old

Blowing out the candles. . .

Clapping for a job well done :)


Opening presents

Audrik liked the spoon as much as the cake

Draven's Preschool Graduation

Wow, I can't believe Draven is so big! While I was waiting for his preschool graduation to begin it finally started to sink in that he is going to kindergarten. I couldn't help but think about the last five years and how much joy he brings to my life. Draven has an amazing spirit. He LOVES everyone - sometimes a little too much. . . the little boys don't really appreciate his hugs :). The joy that he finds in life is contagious. He really is just so happy to be doing anything and everything! The boy is pure energy! I wish I could bottle some of it :). I am so proud of him and what an amazing little person he is.

Draven during the graduation program.

Draven even announced what he's going to be when he grows up . . . Spiderman!

Maddie and Draven - Maddie is Draven's friend and neighbor.

Grandma and Grandpa Miller were really nice and came to support Draven.

Draven, Miss Sharly (one of their teachers), and Maddie

Surprise Visitors

About a month ago we opened our door to find some surprise visitors. This momma duck and her ducklings have been living by the canal next to our apartment complex. There are twelve ducklings. . . that momma has got it going on! We took the opportunity to sit inside our doorway in our pajamas and throw them little pieces of bread. For awhile, I was worried they were going to wander inside but they got their fill and wandered off for a drink and then headed back to the canal.

Kolton's baptism

Right after USU graduation we left for Idaho to be with Kurt's family. Our nephew, Kolton, was being baptised and it was the first time ever that all of the grandkids on Kurt's side would be together in one place! Kurt's grandparents, aunt Kathleen, cousin John, and John's kids also were able to come. It was really great to see everyone. I wish we were able to do it more often.

Carol with the grandkids. L-R: Logan, Kolton, Melinee, Audrik, Karli, Natasha, Draven, and DylanKurt's family: L-R: Haylee, Luke, Derek, Kurt and Teresa. Bottom: Carol and Richard.

4 generation picture: Reuel, Draven, Richard, Audrik and Kurt

The redheads: me, Carol, Teresa, Audrik and Luke

USU Graduation 2010

USU graduation was about a month ago. It was a big day for our family, both my brother, Jim, and my sister-in-law, Jen, graduated. Jim decided he didn't care to walk since he is off to vet school this Fall and figures he will walk at the end of that. Jen decided to walk and I am so glad. I love graduation. It fills me with great feelings and there is such a sense of accomplishment. I know it is a weird thing to like so much but I do.

The day before graduation we were able to watch as our friend, Jeremey, commissioned as an officer in the United States Army. It was amazing. I am so grateful that we were invited and were able to have that experience. I am so thankful for all of the men and women serving in the armed forces!

Dresden, Doug and Jen Dad (Bob), Jen and Mom (Pat)
Doug, Me, Jen and Kurt
Dresden and Audrik (they are about a month apart in age).

Of course, we had to get some pictures with the USU bull!