Snyder, Party of Four!

Like mother like daughter?

2012-02-15T06:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday,Payton had her first horse riding lesson. I found out about the lessons through the City of Gilbert Parks & Rec last year, but they didn't offer the class until they are 3. I had told my dad about them and how cool it would be to watch Payton do something that I loved so much growing up. For Payton's third birthday Pop and Noni purchased her classes through the City and yesterday was our first class! Pop got to go with us and video tape it and watched as Payton and I both enjoyed that thirty minutes to it's fullest.

Payton was a little scared at first, I mean, it was a full sized horse not a pony. Payton's head came up to the bottom of Bommer's belly, that would be intimidating! Pretty soon after me showing that the horse is nice and loves her she was brushing. Then, when it was time to get up in the saddle and ride it was "I don't want to ride a horse, you ride it." I have told myself that when I had kids I would never 'make' them do something they are fearful of, but instead show them that they are brave and confident and can accomplish anything. It took all of 30 seconds of me praising Payton and Boomer before she was ready to hop up. Once on, she had a blast and was telling the instructor where she wanted to go next. When time to leave she had a little fit and wanted to stay and ride Boomer.

A funny story while we were walking around with Payton on the horse. Janelle, the instructor, was teaching Payton how to get Boomer to go and stop. To get the horse to go you say "walk" and to make the horse stop you say "whoa". Janelle asked Payton "how do you get the horse to go?" Payton says "go". Janelle "what do you say?" Payton "Pease." Janelle and I both giggled at Payton's manners and Payton then followed it with "walk Boomer".

Payton asked "Mom, what's that, his parts?" lol

Finally got the courage to brush Boomer!
Getting her helmet on for safety!

"Whoa Boomer"
Such a huge smile!
Seriously, how is that not the cutest thing ever?!

I sure hope that Payton enjoys riding as much as I did, the barn was my second home and I can honestly say if felt amazing to be back on a ranch. If it's not horses, I hope that she finds something she loves and has a passion for as much as I did growing up. Thank you mom and dad for helping and applauding me through my riding days!

My two cents.

2012-02-03T17:54:00.000-08:00

I'm not a political person, especially publicly. I don't discuss it with my clients, friends, or family. Why? Because everybody feels strongly about the way they feel and how they think about the President, candidates, and the laws. All it creates is a debate (argument) about why their way is better. I'm not down with that! Today, a friend of mine shared this photo. I rolled my eyes and let it go because everyone is entitled to their opinion. What sparked this is the argument that ensued with two people commenting back and forth on the picture.

First, really a water fight? There is no back story to either of the pictures that were taken, we don't know the circumstances. Sure, the United States has it's issues but so does Canada, Mexico, Africa and Europe. All countries have good and bad points, pros and cons, things the people agree with and disagree with. It's what makes us individuals. Really, life would be boring if we were all Stepford wives, don't ya think?

Second, if you don't like living in the United States by all means leave! Sure the economy sucks, our health care system is ass backwards, and we are at war. We have the option to vote, we have clean water, and most of us a steady supply of food. I don't believe that any one person, or any one term of a Presidency can fix the issues we have. I do believe that Obama is doing the best he can with the situation he walked in to. I mean really, do you want his job? There are people that love you, people that hate you, and ones that have no clue or opinion. There will never be a President that everyone likes, it just won't happen. I by no means voted for him, nor will I vote for him, but the guys got balls. Huge balls made of steel or titanium or some other strong metal. I mean, who volunteers to try and 'fix' issues that aren't fixable in just one term? Not only volunteers himself, but his family as well. His wife and daughters go through the ringer just as he does. Whether you're black, white, martian, Republican, Democrat, or Independent people will find your faults and blow them up for the world to see.

I'm thankful I was born in America, can call myself an American, and love living in the United States of America.

Texas

2012-01-29T11:12:00.000-08:00

Our trip to Texas was a lot of non-stop fun! When we arrived on Thursday we went to my sisters and Payton and Joey took turns driving his big truck and playing on the little quads. They played in the sandbox and pretty much were outside all day everyday. Sunday was a celebration for my mom turning 50 at my sisters house. I turned out really well. My sister decorated, we made homemade gifts, and my grandma made my mom's favorite meal, homemade chicken and noodles! Monday, on my mom's actual birthday we took the kids and my sisters nephews to Chuck e Cheese where Payton had a blast, but asked to go back to grandmas for a nap. We left on Tuesday morning which was bitter sweet. I hate having to leave m family, but it was nice to be back home and get back to our routine. Here are some pictures from our adventures :)

It was inevitable

2012-01-17T12:49:00.001-08:00

I look over and find Payton cutting her dolls hair! When I ask her why, she replied "cuz it gettin long".

Traveling

2012-01-16T18:24:00.000-08:00

On Thursday Payton, Jordan, my grandma and myself are taking off to go to Texas to celebrate my mom's 50th birthday! I'm very excited for our trip and can't wait to see everyone. Normally, there would be a little bit of hesitation as to how a baby would be during a flight but I'm confident it will be great. Jordan is the type of baby that if he's held (especially by yours truly) he's fine. Payton is very excited for her (first) plane ride. I asked her today if she's ever flown on a plane and she said no. Funny thing is she's flown about 5 times already, so I'm pretty sure this will be her first that she remembers. I'm sure there will be lots of pictures and stories when we return!

Exhaustion

2012-01-05T17:50:00.001-08:00

After leaving the house at 10:30am and getting home at 6, getting both kids through the bath, two trips to social security and a little shopping on 4 hours of sleep I'm exhausted through to my bones! But I have Jordan's social security number for our taxes, 2 cute bras, a new library book and a full tummy ;) goodnight zzzzx

The cousins visit!

2012-01-02T10:29:00.000-08:00

My cousin Desirae, her husband Luke and their 3 girls came to visit for a few days. It was a blast and I came to realize that Payton had no clue Joey and Kylee are herr cousins as we've never discussed it. Payton loved her older cousins and had a blast following them around and emulating them in everything they did. We had makeovers, went to a movie (Payton's first), and partied alot at our house. There were discussions of visiting Oregon together, and even moving to "Falifornia" to be closer to them.

While Desirae was here grandma gave her all of the things she'd been holding onto that were Uncle John's (Desirae's dad). He passed away a long time ago and grandma was ready to pass on his things to his beautiful daugter. Smiles and tears were shared, but over all it was a good thing! I'm 100% holding Matt to our vacation to Oregon this summer, we've wanted to go for 3 years and always have an excuse. With $50 tickets one way, there's really no excuse this year :)

New Years

2012-01-02T10:18:00.000-08:00

My NYE was spent with NyQuil, cough drops and a Jersey Shore marathon. Yeah, not the no-holds-bar party I had hoped for to kick 2011 in the ass and say thank God to a new year. Oh well, 2011 is still gone and it is a new year anyway. I have lots I want to accomplish in 2012 for not only myself, but for my family.

*I need to be more mind full of my spending. (YUCK!)

*I want to be attend church more. My goal is 2 Sundays a month!

*I want to take more pictures. I take lots of pictures of the kids, but not very many of the important people in their lives. sigh

*I want to pay more attention to my health. I've lost 15 pounds and that's great, but I need to take vitamins, supplements, and drink more water.

*I want to work on my patience and my potty mouth. The F-bomb was totally drooped by Payton yesterday, and that's not cool!

Over all not a whole lot and some will be easier then others, but they are all attainable! Hope your 2012 is as great as I plan on mine being :)

Sickies

2012-01-02T10:09:00.001-08:00

Christmas morning Jordan had a low grade fever and a runny nose. I remember saying oh no the teething has begun! He was a trooper and was happy all day on Christmas. Monday he woke with a cough that progressively got worse. Matt and I were supposed to have a stay cation for his birhtday since my mom was in town to have the kids. She asked me to take him to the doctor to be sure he was ok for her overnight with them. I got him in that day and wow was I shocked. It was the very beginning of RSV. The Dr. told me that we caught it early and that we still had a 50% chance of Jordan being admitted to the hospital for 3-4 days. He prescribed and antibiotic and said to give him breathing treatments every two hours! I left feeling like the worst mother praying my poor baby didn't have to go to the hospital. Matt and I stayed on top of his antibiotics and treatments and luckily we were able to stay home. We missed our wonderful stay cation with dinner reservations, sleeping in and room service, but my baby is ok so I'm okay with it (kind of)!

Next was grandpa on the sickness train, then me. I went in to the clinic on Sunday morning and was told I have bronchitis, a sinus infection, wheezing in my right lung and a migraine! Just what I need, right?! Payton and Matt have appointments this afternoon as they are on the same sickness train. At least we will all be healthy and done with it for our upcoming vacations!!

Christmas Day

2012-01-02T09:54:00.001-08:00

This was by far the best Christmas yet. It was so fun to watch Payton discover and love the magic of Christmas. Santa is now one of the coolest people she's met. We discused the reason of Christmas, but I think next year is when it will all sink in and become known about baby Jesus. Christmas was held at our house because Matt and I didn't really want to leave and visit everyone singly. Instead we had an open house with dinner at about 3. Whomever wanted to eat was welome and if someone just wanted to come, visit and leave that was good too. We had about 20 people in our home and it was awesome! I love hoting and having so much love in my home anyday, let alone on Holidays :)
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Christmas Eve

2012-01-02T09:51:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve is always spent with my dad and Robin. This year robin was sick and dind't decorate for Christmas, so we went to Famous Dave's for dinner instead. It was a lot of fun and they always have great food!

Payton's Fabulous 3rs Birthday

2012-01-02T09:30:00.000-08:00

Payton's third birthday party was a success! She has so much fun with all her friends and really needed a day that completely revolved around her. The theme was Minnie Mouse picked by the birthday girl herself! My friend Heather helped me make the Minnie banner and the invitations. Thank you so much Heather :)

My baby.

2011-12-14T18:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Payton,

You are three in 6 days. Wow, how did that happen? I seriously don't know where the time went or where my little baby went.

Gone is the dark hair, tiny limbs, and the dark olive skin. Gone are the days where you needed mommy to feed you, bathe you, and change your diaper. Gone are the days when Grandma J and Grandpa J would come daily to visit us and the new baby in the family. Gone are the days where it was just you and I, or you, Dad and I. Gone are your 'firsts' I remember them like they were yesterday. Your first bath, daddy and I were so nervous and terrified that we would drop you or get soap in your eyes. The first time you rolled over at 3 months old. Sitting up and crawling at 6months. Walking at 9 months and your first scraped knee on your very first birthday. Gone are the days when you would look at me like I was your whole world.

Replacing that little baby is my big three year old. You now look at me like I don't have the slightest clue. You are now the most tenacious, strong willed, stubborn, sassy little girl who knows just what she wants and isn't going to settle for less. You are also so sweet, sensitive and caring it truly melts my heart. If someone is hurt or is sad you are the first one to ask if they are ok and tell them you are "sorry that happened". You now have beautiful creamy white skin , gorgeous blond hair and a smile that catches attention everywhere we go. You ask everyone their name and truly care what the answer is. You are incredibly conscious and concerned for brother when he is upset, hungry, tired, or just plane fussy. You love your friends (real and imaginative) and can't wait to play with them. You are very independent which is very frustrating to mommy right now. When you are older you will settle for nothing less then the world, and that gives me the confidence to get through the challenging days we have been having so frequently.

You are a third of mommy's world. You have enriched, expanded, and improved my life immensely and for that I can't thank you enough. I am so proud of you and the little girl you are becoming. For you my love, I pray that you never loose your way and that your path is always bright. That you achieve all you set out to. That you know how much you mean to daddy and I, and that we will always be here for you. I pray that you get mommy's heart, ability to forgive, and my ability to trust people. I pray that you get daddy's ability to do what it takes, his where-with-all to know that not everyone means well, and his ability to see past all the bullshit that is in the world we live in.

We will pick you up when you struggle, guide you when you need a path, set limits when you are too big for your 3T britches, and support you in everything that you do. You are the flame that lights our life. You are an amazing little girl and the perfect blend of daddy and I. I can't wait to watch you grow and mold into who you are destined to be.

Love,

Mommy

I Love:

2011-12-04T06:49:00.000-08:00

Aside from the obvious (family) here are the small things I love.

*The way Jordan holds onto my thumb as if his life depended on it while he's eating.

*The fact Payton doesn't like Jordan to have naps because she wants "my Jordan".

*Payton tells Jordan good morning when he wakes up in the morning and after naps.

*How Jordan smiles at Payton if she simply walks past.

*The support Matt and I give in our parenting.

*The fact that Matt and I are either both the 'good cop' or the 'bad cop'. We're a team.

*The way Matt has become proactive in his health and treatment.

*When Payton says "I wanna hold you" when clearly she wants you to hold her.

*The fact my girl is a snuggler, after nearly three years.

These are the small things that make me smile and my heart swell.

Ten

2011-12-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

Acctually, for the sake of being accurate, it's twelve. Twelve pounds gone!! After two months of tracking my consumption either online or mentally, tears of discouragement and frustration, and the constant self restraint needed to obtain weight loss it's finally melting off. And by melting I literally mean melting, about a pound a day! Now I have the wonderful problem of my pants being baggy. I've always done a mental eye roll at people who complain about their pants being baggy, I mean come on! I personally feel it's for attention or the "but you look good or you're doing so good" comments that usually follow such complaint. I have a 'few' more pounds to loose, but am happy with how things are currently going.

Rice Cereal

2011-12-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

Jordan had his first experience with rice cereal a few days ago. He seemed to like it, but hasn't quite gotten it down yet. He's still at the pushing it out of the mouth with his tongue stage. He is getting so big and passing so many milestones it amazes me. Here are some pictures of his adventure!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-26T18:50:00.000-08:00

Our Thanksgiving was pretty small this year. Dad and Robin invited us over for dinner along with Bobby, Melaney and a couple of dad and Robin's friends. It was so nice and relaxing. We showed up early and watched some football. Jordan was pretty fussy and I ended up putting him to bed right as dinner was being served. He slept through dinner, dishes and desert which was nice.

My brother and Melaney announced that they are naming their boy Jonathan Kelley Johantgen after my Uncle and her brother who were both servicemen that lost their lives. I'm getting pretty excited for my nephew and can't wait to meet him.

My grandma and Karen were gracious enough to go black friday shopping with me. I only wanted to go to WalMart for a few things. The sale started at 10 so I had them pick me up at 9:30. To say it was crazy is an understatement. We had to park across the street as there was no parking. People were on top of eachother and grabbing things in multiples. I got 2 out of the 3 things I wanted, so I was pretty stoked!

Kendra's Visit

2011-11-17T14:59:00.000-08:00

Kendra and I were supposed to go to Disneyland with our family for Uncle Phil's 50th birthday, but alas I can't afford it. With Christmas, Payton's bday and Matt's bday within 7 days of eachother and my wedding anniversary during our vacation, I couldn't justify leaving. Kendra had already booked her flight so she decided to still come and just bring Kylee and leave Joey at home with Joe. We had a lot of fun and were super busy, I'm still trying to catch up! Kylee is the cutest little girl and Payton absolutely adores her, it's truly adorable. Instead of overloading you with pictures I'll just post a few.

Christmas Pictures

2011-11-17T14:51:00.000-08:00

My friend Jessica was in town from New Mexico and while she was here she was doing Christmas sessions. I booked a session at 9am on Saturday and figured I'd leave and go straight to work for my first client at 10:30. The morning was very stressful (big surprise) byt we eventually found the location and our pictures turned out great. I made it to work on time and am so thankful to be able to do pictures yearly to document our family!

Halloween

2011-11-17T14:47:00.000-08:00

Jordan ended up with a cold and not able to tirck or treat with us. Grandma and Grandpa came to pick Jordan up so Matt and I could both go with Payton trick or treating. Unfortunately my camera was in the diaper bag so I didn't get any pictures. Here are some pictures of the kids at our annual Halloween costume party. Jordan was super boy and Payton was super girl. Payton had a blast trick or treating and was really good at using her manners. She even told one house "thank you, have a good night."

Mother Nature's Farm

2011-10-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we went to a local farm that's about 2 miles from our house called Mother Nature's Farm. They had a reptile company come in for the weekend to display some reptiles in addition to all they have to offer. They have animals (Payton's favorite), bounce houses (Payton's other favorite) pumpkin patch, hay rides and refreshments. It's still very warm here, so we got pretty warm and left earlier than we'd hoped. Payton and daddy looking at a snake.

She wanted nothing to do with it while Matt held it, but got brave when mommy had it.

This is a 240lb python!This was a real alligator, or crocidile, I'm not sure which. All I know is I wasn't trusting the piece of electrical tape over it's mouth.

Us, minus Jordan.

Decorating her pumpkin.

Picking out a pumpkin, apparently you have to thump it to know it's a good one?!

Recents

2011-10-13T14:46:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent pictures of Payton's first real manicure and our trip to Vertuccio Farms. Payton was a bit of a grump when asked to look at the camera to have her picture taken, but she had a blast! It amazes me that Jordan isn't quite 3mos old and I already feel like a pro at outings with two kiddos. Thanks to careful planning and packing the diaper bag ahead of time it usually goes pretty smoothly. So cliche, but I can't imagine our life without the lil guy!

Justice

2011-10-13T14:30:00.001-07:00

Justice has (kind of) been served! All of the blood, sweat, tears, fears and regrets over the last 6 months has come to an end and my family and I can finally relax and plan for the Holidays! Our prayers and hopes were answered and we are very happy of the outcome of this journey. One day Matt may let me blog about the details, but today is not that day. It's been a rough road with lots of what if's and should I of's. From the beginning and as I always say don't worry about tomorrow, because we have to get through today just to make it to tomorrow. Matthew definitely whishes he was wired like me in these instances, but he's the head of our family and has a lot to worry about. I love you babe, we made it through a really rough year with very little "ups". We for sure can't wait to say "see ya 2011, hello 2012"!!

Paytonisms

2011-10-06T16:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some funny things Payton has said lately.

"Uh oh Mommy, Ma(grandma) sogot this. Its okay, I fix it." apparently great grandma didn't make sure her buckles were clicked in all the way on the car seat.

I asked her to ge ready for bed... "one second, I'm busy now."

"Shit" whenever she drops something. (working on fixing this)

"I want freaking coffee now" (yeah, she doesn't really drink coffee and mom says freaking instead of the other word. Time for a nicer word.)

"I love you Jordan/Buddy" it melts my heart every.single.time.

"Mom, french fries make me all better." said while leaving the Dr. office.

"I need____" because isn't everything a *need*?

"Payton in big trouble now?"

"I can't go timeout"

Everytime Matt or I tell her "no" she tells on us to the other. For example Matt tells her she can't do something so she comes and tells me "daddy says no". The whole good cop/bad cop thing isn't working out too well for her.

We went to a birthday party on Sunday. Several times a day I hear "happy birthday Addison, happy birthday you, happy birthday Addison." Apparently Addison's party left a big impression on her!

"Mommy we go shopping in 10 minutes?"

2 Months!

2011-09-20T11:23:00.000-07:00

Jordan was two months old on Sunday! Time sure has flown, and he's only gotten bigger. He weighs in at 11lbs 14oz and is 24in long. He's the same height and only 5 ounces smaller than Kylee who is 2 months older than him. He is now smiling and sleeps through the night most nights. On the rare occasion he doesn't sleep through the night, he's up about 4am and goes back down until about 8. He has had to go to day care the last couple weeks and does great there. Amazing how things change with your second child. I wouldn't have even thought about putting Payton in day care, but things were different then. Grandparents weren't as busy or re-located and I was the new over-protective mommy.

Thankful

2011-09-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

It's no secret my family has been through a lot during my pregnancy and the first 7 weeks of Jordan's life. It's easy to get in a 'rut' and throw yourself a pity party and I think everyone deserves a good pity party once in a while, it's good for the soul. But, I also love how God gives you little reminders through others that it could always be worse and everybody is going through *something*. Monday night Matt was voicing his opinions on going back to work after his hospital stay. He didn't want to go, he hates his job, blah blah blah. While having this conversation the doorbell rings. It's our neighbor selling tamales she had made. Come to find out her husband got laid off and they're making and selling tamales as a way to bring in some *extra* money. After 20+ years at the company, they had to let him go. Although it is devastating for them, it opened a window for Matthew and I. Suddenly, his job wasn't so bad...he has a job that supports our family! It also taught us that no matter how much you do for a company, everyone is expendable in this economy. It has also got me thinking about all the things I'm thankful for. Here's a little list (because I'm thankful for EVERYTHING).

*My husband- he understands that motherhood isn't easy, glamorous, or even fun on some days. He's supportive, sees the value of me being home with our children, and loves me unconditionally.

*Payton Nicole- she's stubborn, spirited, and has me so frustrated most days I'm surprised I have any hair left. She's also very compassionate, loving, and makes sure everyone is okay and happy.

*Jordan Matthew- although he's just 7 weeks old he has enriched our family and brought us closer together than I ever imagined. I had always thought of us as a 'clan', but since adding him to our family we are a 'team'.

*My job- as much as I love being home with my children, I LOVE working part time. I have a passion for what I do, and I missed it so much while on maternity leave I went back 2 weeks earlier than I had planned.

*My health- living through what Matthew has gone through the last two years has really made me appreciate my health and not take it for granted.

*My family- although they're all a bunch of nuts (not me, I'm perfectly normal haha) I appreciate the relationship I have with each of them. Each relationship is unique and it's own. For everything I go through in life there's someone I look to for support or advice. Although I usually call everyone and fill them in, there's always someone who gets the first call. This person is the one I feel can fulfill my needs the most, the rest are for added support.

Thank you Crohn's Disease

2011-09-02T12:44:00.001-07:00

I would like to personally thank Crohn's Disease for kidnapping my husband and holding him hostage at the hospital all week...not! I believe you have to keep a light-hearted approach and find humor in most things to survive the day to day turbulence. Matt's 'flare ups' usually only last 6-8 hours and haven't had him hospitalized since December of 2010. The last time he was hospitalized for this long (5 days) was two years ago, prior to his diagnosis. Hopefully he gets to come home today, we all sure miss him! Everyday Payton says "Daddy at work?" and around 6pm "Daddy coming home?" so sad. I explained to her that Daddy is sick and at the hospital with the Dr. so he can get better. Last night she asked to call and talk to Matt. She talked to him for about 5 minutes and I think it made both of their days. That was the happiest I've heard him since Monday.

Yesterday my friend Jada watched Payton while Jordan and I went to the hospital to visit Matt and help him get out of bed, walk around, and shower. Jordan was such a good boy and Matt really enjoyed having us there. It's definitely different once you have two kids, who wants to take care of BOTH of your kids while you're at the hospital? No one really, that's what I learned this go-around. I was only able to go visit him twice (aside from when he was in the ER) once for 1 hour and once for 2 hours. How sucky would it be to be in the hospital all day, by yourself with no visitors? Pretty damn sucky! I'm incredibly grateful to Jada for taking on the tougher of the two kiddos so I could be there for those 2 hours.

Part of my 'charm' is the fact that I bend a lot for a lot of people. You need something, I'm there. Unfortunately I've found very few people who are there for me the way I'm there for everyone else. And when they are there they make me feel like I'm inconveniencing them. That's a pretty horrible feeling to have. In the end, I didn't put my children upon those people. I wouldn't have enjoyed my visit with Matt wondering if Jordan was fussy, if Payton was behaving well, all for someone who didn't really want them in the first place. Matt says I should quit doing things for the people who aren't there to help me when I need it, and truthfully that would be a hell of a lot easier. I can't though, I enjoy helping others, I love always being there for everyone, and my family and friends know I'm reliable. I just wish I was treated in the same manner.

Jordan visiting Daddy!

Just some recent pictures.

2011-08-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Blessed

2011-08-25T21:05:00.001-07:00

Today was a pretty trying day between Payton and I. The older she gets the more stubborn and head strong she becomes. So far there's no convincing her it's "my" way and not "her" way. I watch my friends with their kids and think, wow look how easy he is, or, she listens really well. Payton, not so much. We spend most of our days in time out, either her for misbehaving, or me to regain my strength and patience. Today was especially rough because Matt is working late. It's 9pm and he still isn't home and probably won't be home until 10:30. This means that I had to cook dinner, do baths and bed time solo. Sure it sounds easy, but with a todder that fights you for everything and a starving newborn, it's proven to be not so easy. Still, at the end of the night as I look at my precious sleeping babies I can't help but feel blessed! It's days and nights like this that make me step back and relize how much Matt helps and supports me and how much I need and depend on him.

Buddy

2011-08-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

Payton has given Jordan a nickname. She calls him "Buddy". "You okay, Buddy?" "How was your nap, Buddy?" It is so cute to hear her talk to him and to see her interact with him. Last night Payton, Jordan and I were hanging out in Payton's room when she layed next to Jordan and said "take a picture mommy". This is the cuteness I captured. She truly loves him, and I can't wait to see him show love back to her.

Payton has only become more independent since 'Buddy's' arrival. She now buckles herself into her car seat and tells me "you hear the click mommy". She has to open the car door herself and let herself out of the car. "I get it" and "I do it myself" are phrases I hear non stop throughout the day. She has now figured out she can open the fridge by herself. Since then I have found a popped bouncy ball, leftover ice cream cone, juice cup, sunglasses, and plastic food. Apparently it's for more then just fruits, veggies and condiments!

2 Weeks

2011-08-13T07:03:00.000-07:00

Really, Jordan is now almost 4 weeks. With things being so busy I haven't had time to post. At his two week check up he weighted 8lbs 6oz and was 21 inches. This means in 2 weeks he gained 1lb 6oz and grew and inch and a half. Unheard of apparently because they measured him 3 times! He is a healthy baby and takes nursing and bottle feeding like a pro! He is such a good baby and has brought so much joy to our lives we are truly blessed. The following pictures were taken at a mere 6 days old!

It's a busy life!

2011-08-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

My sister, her 2 kids, and my Grandma came to visit for a week. I had two 2 year olds and 2 infants and 3 adults in my house. It was crazy, busy, and hectic at times but it was fun and I got some quality time in with my family.

Who doesn't like ring around the rosey?

This is how most car rides go for him...
Payton and Joey riding the pony!
Family in town means I see my brother everyday! This was something I pulled out to help us get dinner going without crying toddlers :)
We went to Jambo, it was cheap and way fun for the kids!
Joey and Payton
Jordan and Kylee
We went to Chuck e Cheese
haha, bed head?

He is such a proud Uncle, but learned the true value of birth control: it's priceless!!

Everyone is home and I have no visitors left to come. It's quiet around here, but it's nice to get back to the Snyder's. This weekend will be low key as Payton has pink eye, a sinus and ear infection. Go figure, we had 2 parties to go to this weekend and can't make them.

Mom's Visit

2011-07-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

My mom arrived on Wednesday morning, the morning after my release from the hospital and left Tuesday. Wednesday and Thursday were pretty relaxing days, but on Friday mom's friend Carol came down from Globe to visit us and they took Payton to Sea Life! Payton had a blast, she got to see the aquarium, ride the carousel, have lunch and be mommy and brother free for an afternoon. On Saturday mom and I left Jordan with daddy and took Payton to Chik fil A for lunch and some play time. It was really nice to be able to do something for Payton without Jordan's involvement. I think Payton really enjoyed the quality time with mommy and ma. We really enjoyed having my mom here and miss her already and can't wait til we see her again!

Carol and Payton on the carousel

Mom and Payton

The 3 girls at the aquarium

Starfish

My little fashionista had to take Minnie and her stroller with!

Bringing home baby.

2011-07-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of our first few days home. Payton is the best big sister I could have imagined. She has compassion, concern, and love for her baby brother. She likes to help with diaper changes, always makes sure he has a blanket, rocks him, and talks to him about her day.

We got to go home!

Rocco meets Jordan.

Payton helping with diapers.

She's his protector, for now!

Jordan Matthew Snyder

2011-07-26T15:41:00.000-07:00

I was scheduled for induction on July 18, the day after my edd. We got there at 9am and waited until 10 for our room to be cleaned and prepped. When I arrived I was dialated to a 4, but Jordan was still pretty high and my cervix was still pretty thick. The doctor decided to put a cervical gel along my cervix to help it soften. At noon I was ready for my pitocin and by 3:30 I was really ready for my epidural. I endured about an hour and a half of back labor (no fun) before asking for my epi. By the time I got my epi I was to a 6 and about 70% effaced. At 6:15 the nurse checked and we were ready to prepare for delivery. Matt had been joking with the nurses about putting on gloves and a mask to get the job done. When it came time to push the doctor handed him some gloves and asked him if he wanted to deliver baby. Matt nervously said yes. After two pushes Jordan was born into the hands of his Daddy. Matt said he was extremely slippery and he was fearful he would drop him. It was such an amazing experience and to have Matt be so hands on with the delivery made it that more special. Jordan weighed in at 7lbs 2oz and 19.5 inches long. He was smaller than Payton who was 7lbs 7oz and 20.5 inches long. Here are some pictures of my little guy!

Our last picture as family of 3.
My last bump ever.
The smile is genuine, I was ready!
Meet Jordan :)

He's a little 'devil' already!

My family of 4!!

Amazing

2011-07-11T18:30:00.001-07:00

If you look in the dictionary (my dictionary, not yours) there would be 3 words to the definition: Payton Nicole Snyder. The amount of compassion, caring, stubbornness, and concern this little two-and-a-half year old has truly amazes me and inspires me. Yesterday, I had an emotional break down or break through, I'm not quite sure which. Unfortunately, Payton was a whitness to my break...whatever. While Matt was consoling me Payton came over and said "why Mommy crying?" Matt and I explained to her that sometimes there are feelings that just deserve a good cry, then you feel all better. She then told me "mama, you cheeks dirty tears" went and got a towel and dried my tear streaked cheeks. How, a two year old has the where with all to understand tears and comfort left Matt and I completely astonished at our little girl. I can honestly say I felt better afterwards. Did it erase my pains and uncomfortableness that come along with being 1 week away from your due date? No, it didn't but I know that my family is behind me and supports me and loves me even through my break...whatevers!

Independence Day

2011-07-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Independence Day at the Snyder's for some BBQ, swimming, and fireworks (me secretly wishing I'd go into labor)! We had so much fun and the food was delish. Payton definitely didn't want to get out of the pool and is loving swimming more and more everytime we go. She got out long enough to eat dinner, then wanted back in signaling to us by taking off her clothes and saying "I go swimming" so Matt got back in the pool with a naked Payton to swim one last time before fireworks. We lit off fireworks then went through the drive through at McDonalds to get some ice cream cones. Payton was in bed at 9:30 for all of 5 seconds before falling asleep and slept in until 7:30 this morning!!

Payton liked the poppers, but got bored with them fast!

Always in the middle of the action.

She loved being in control of the sparklers.

It's a serious one, folks.

2011-06-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

My blog is overall pretty upbeat, positive, and mostly revolving around Payton. Well, lately I've been faced with some inner turmoil that has been bubbling to the surface since April 16. My home has a lot going on right now, not to say that 90% of the universe doesn't either but we've never been faced with as much as we're handling currently. There is a saying that "if He brings you to it, He will bring you through it". Although I believe that and totally believe everything happens for a reason, sometimes I think why all at the same time? Isn't it enough to be faced with one obstacle, let alone 3 or 4 at the same time?

For every night I cry from on going contractions, being uncomfortable, and the fact I look back on the day and tell myself all the ways I could have been a more patient, understanding, loving mother to Payton, during the day I think about how not ready I am for Jordan to be here. Matt is taking up a lot of my patience, understanding, and loving right now. Quite honestly, I believe he needs it more than Payton does right now. Life is going to get that much harder once Jordan's here, and quite frankly if he waits until his due date I'm hoping to be able to cross off one of our obstacles.

Matt and I look forward to the day we can say "it's finally over, we made it". I know it will happen, I just pray that it happens soon. Lord, we're ready for a break, and I think we deserve it. We have proven that we believe in You, Your work through us, and that we can handle anything you thrown at us, but a little reprieve would be phenominal!

Payton's sleep over

2011-06-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

Matt had to go out of town for the weekend for work. He left Friday and still isn't home at 5:00 Sunday evening. I was not looking forward to him leaving because a) I'm due in 3 weeks and b) he's very helpful around the house and with Payton. I immediately called my Dad and asked if he and Robin had any plans this weekend and would they like Payton for a sleep over. They said sure, so I dropped her off Saturday afternoon. I came home, polished my toes, attempted to watch a couple movies, got bored and missed my munchkin like crazy! I then started thinking I should have used this weekend to get one-on-one snuggle and girl time in before Jordan arrives.

This morning I went and got my car detailed and did my grocery shopping solo (heaven) then called Dad to let him know I'd pick Payton up around noon before our lunch date with Sheena and Tristan. Payton got on the phone and when she heard my voice she started crying and saying "home mama". This is when my heart broke, I ended up hanging up the phone and crying as well. How could I be so quick to 'ship her off' when she loves to hang out and be with mama? She had a blast, Pop took her swimming (her fave) then out to dinner and out to frozen yogurt. She was so exhausted from all the fun and no nap she slept until 7:30 this morning. I was up at 6:30, our normal time! We had a lot of fun today, with no nap yet again, and it was definitely nice to have some time to myself. Having a break from her makes me realize how much she enriches my life and how much I take for granted the fact she's here with me everyday.

She is fearless which Dad says is "nice, but scary". I agree 100%

Pop teaching her some moves in the water.

Some quick funnies

2011-06-25T08:57:00.001-07:00

Payton has been rather funny this week and I thought I'd share a few stories.

Payton is in her room playing when all the sudden she comes out with Pengie, sits him up against the fridge and says "Pengie time out no hit" then points at him with a very serious look on her face and says "don't move". She then comes up to me and says "mama, Pengie in time out leave alone". When I asked her what he did she replied "he bite me, no bite Pengie not nice". Evidently he may or may not have hit/bitten her, een she was confused as to his crime.

While getting her bath ready she's lining up her little cups she likes to fill and dump with the bath water she picks one up, pees in it and says "Payton pee in cup, yike Mommy at doctor". Yeah, pretty good sign your toddler has been to too many Ob appointments with you!

I picked Payton up from school yesterday and as we're getting ready to leave she goes up to each kid in her class, hugs them and tells them "bye so an so, see you yater". It was so sweet, and makes me feel good that she has so many friends at school.

I'm getting ready for work and Payton is up on my bed watching toons. Out of the blu she says "mama, I love you mommy" it melted my heart!!

Maternity Pictures

2011-06-23T12:22:00.000-07:00

Here are my Maternity Pictures! They turned out amazing and I'm so glad I did them!!

Father's Day Fun!

2011-06-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Father's Day, and when I asked Matt what he wanted to do his answer was "just hang out with you and Payton". He was originally going to go into work for a few hours, not my idea of fun EVER. I convinced him to stay home buy cooking his favorite breakfast, bacon, over medium eggs and white toast. Payton was pretty fussy and difficult in the morning, so we just stayed home and put her down for a nap. When she woke up an hour later I decided that if I was going to be uncomfortable and hot I might as well go *float* in the pool. We headed out to the Snyder's for some fun in the sun which is always Payton's favorite thing to do! The whole family came swimming, even Emily after protesting she didn't want to get sick. We had a ball and to see how much Matt enjoyed hanging with his sisters it was the perfect day.

Watching her Daddy and Aunts try and become a totem pole!

This girl was born part fish, I swear!!

Just like Mommy, basking in the sun :)

The totem pole! Next time, Payton will be placed on top of Katelyn? Matt and Emily were not quite ready for the 4th leg of their totem pole!

Bored

2011-06-17T09:26:00.000-07:00

I haven't been doing so great lately. For the last 3 days I've thought "maybe today will be the day". I'm one month to the day until my due date, but I have been having contractions and been nauseous since Wednesday. I feel like crap and have no patience. I so was not like this with Payton. With her I woke up, my water broke, I had no contractions and wasn't in labor, went to the hospital and had a beautiful little girl 9 hours later. I honestly don't know if I want to hang on for 4 more weeks feeling like this. Poor Payton has cabin fever and doesn't understand why I have to sit down so frequently.

Katelyn was over Monday and Tuesday (the days I was feeling pretty good). Katelyn likes to dress Payton up and have a fashion show. Usually, this happens in Payton's bedroom but on Tuesday they decided to share with me. Payton asked for the pink hair and put the glasses and silly bands on herself, but I'm sure the outfit had some coercing by Katey!

Just a quick one!

2011-06-12T19:53:00.000-07:00

Kaiah had surgery on Friday, and Payton has been a great nurse!

Baby Shower

2011-06-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

Me and my lovey

The glowing mom to be

Snuggles!

Today, Cheryl and Robin threw Jordan and I a baby shower. I wasn't expecting a shower, so the fact that they both offered to throw me one is awesome! The day was perfect, Payton and I went and had some maternity shots taken, came back for a quick map (30 mins), then off to the "party". My family is definitely blessed with the amount of friends and family we have in our lives and the gifts we received. Payton had fun and opened all the gifts for me and the few gifts that were there for her! She definitely had a sugar high that lasted for about 2 hours and is now back at a normal pace. I can safely say it will be early to bed in our house!!

My pretty lady!

Unfortunately, she blinked!

One of Payton's presents.

"Mama, my dinner in my yap"

The cake

The decorations!!

Instead of a guest book, Chery bought baseballs and had the guests sign them!

Day at the pool

2011-06-06T15:09:00.000-07:00

Payton and Daddy enjoying the "sea"

Riding the wave runner

Pracicing her great escape

More Kaiah and Payton

2011-06-05T12:23:00.000-07:00

For some reason, my soft spot for Kaiah has gotten even softer! Payton literally wants Kaiah with her all the time. Sometimes you can see it in Kaiah's face that she's not exactly thrilled with Paytons anticts, but she politely sits there and takes the abuse. She truly is a mama dog!

Everyday Payton and Kaiah go in Paytons play room where the dog kennels happen to also live. I check on them periodically and found this this afternoon. Payton, Pengie and Kaiah were hanging out in Kaiah's kennel.

Payton decided Kaiah is better suited as a horse!

Swimmig in the Sea

2011-06-02T14:55:00.000-07:00

Payton has always loved the water and swimming. This year she seems even more obsessed with it. Today was our first swimming playdate, and Payton had a blast. While we were getting ready I told her that we were going to go to playdate and swim with our friends. Of course, that's all she talked about until she actually got in the water! The kid has no fear or hesitation of the water, which of course puts a little fear in me. Thankfully, there were 2 kiddie pools there so we didn't have to go in the big "sea". Payton calls all pools "seas" because fish swim in the sea I guess. Payton was one of two girls to be surrounded by boys and didn't mind at all. Boys play rough and tough like she does, so she fit right in!

Splash!!

The water wasn't cold, she was laughing and squeeling with excitement.

My sun bathing beauty :)

Raising a child is like raising a dog?

2011-05-26T11:25:00.001-07:00

I'm sure everyone has heard the saying before. Marriage, pet, children is the "order" people often recommend. Why? I think because they think that raising and training a dog is comparable to raising and "training" a child. I am here to disagree!

Matt and I married in 2005 and in 2007 we had our first 'child' Kaiah. I was raised with a German Shepherd (GSD) as a child, and absolutely loved and adored our family dog Yetta. As soon as Matt and I married and started talking about adding children to our home I made no bones about the fact we would one day have a GSD! Matt, quite honestly, was terrified. He thought the breed was known for it's aggressiveness and mean-ness. My dad and Robin decided to breed their first litter of GSD and right away I knew then was my chance. I told them that I would like a puppy from their litter and when they were born told Matt "guess what?! we're getting a puppy!" Matt was not thrilled, but being the supportive husband and knowing it was very important to me he went along. Now, 4 years and almost 2 children later, we have 2 GSD!!

Matt will be the first to tell you that he will never own another breed of dog, because to him, they are inferior. Everyday, sometimes twice a day, Payton takes 'her dog' outside with her to play. As the mom who wanted to raise her daughter with a GSD, it makes my heart swell and puts a smile on my face to know that she has a bond with her dog just like I did! When we go to the park, Payton asks "mama, Kaiah go park too?". Unfortunately, Kaiah can't go to the park with us because it literally sends her into panic mode. She wants to follow Payton up the steps and thorough the maze of kids and down the slide to make sure Payton ends up un scathed. Most parents are like Matt used to be, terrified of this massive dog. Especially if we have both dogs people will literally cross the street to avoid getting in our path.

Kaiah took 1 week and only 2 wet accidents to potty train. She learned to 'sit' and 'platz' quickly as well. Payton took a month to potty train and we are back at square one. I'm not in denial about the fact that her baby brother's arrival being closer has something to do with it. But, she has gone from pretty much accident free to pretty much toilet free. Kaiah was absolutely easy and non-stressful to teach whereas with Payton I pray daily for patience and guidance to help her along. To me, the two are incomparable and I see no correlation between raising a pet and raising a child. As much as I say "when these dogs die, I'm done with animals" I know it's not true. I can't imagine our family without the companionship of our beloved 4 legged children.

Kaiah meeting Payton for the first time!

At Prescott Days in Prescott.

Kaiah and Rocco

Rocco

Rocco at the Fountain Hills Festival

Cheap

2011-05-23T12:36:00.001-07:00

Three years ago (shoot maybe even last year) had you told me that I would one day be considered "cheap" I probably would have laughed in your face. Three years ago I would spend $30 on a weekly, yes weekly, pedicure. I wouldn't think twice about a $12 car wash or a $6 Starbucks. I didn't understand, or care to understand, the word 'budget' and thought that the people who used that word were crazy. I mean come on, you could always work more to avoid such a word, right? Well, I guess that's still true. Do I want to work more and miss out on precious time with my rambunctious two-and-a-half year old? Hell NO!

I love working 2-3 days a week. It's pretty much the perfect schedule for me. I'm home more than I'm not, I make enough money to help out with expenses, and I get to be home 4-5 days with my precious child (soon to be children). Since joining couponsense.com I have become more conscious and aware at what things cost, and what they could cost. I'm only about 4 weeks into my coupon journey, so I haven't seen a huge payoff yet, but it will come!

Last week I cleaned and conditioned the leather interior in my car. I didn't wash it because we were due for rain last week and didn't want my hard work to be "washed away". Well, it did rain and my car got filthy. Today I decided I'd go get my car washed. My justification was that a) I don't need/want Payton's help and b) by the time she's napping, it'll be too hot to do myself. I got to the car wash and thought for about 3 minutes if I could justify paying $13 for a car wash. There are so many things I could spend that money on. Just yesterday I got 100 diapers and a package of wipes for that amount! All they're going to do is vacuum, put my car through the wash, and dry it. I ended up doing it, and in the end I'm glad because now my car is sparkling inside and out and I didn't have to lift a finger.

My point is, prior to children I had so many "luxuries" I never thought twice about giving up. Let alone to *willingly* give them up. To me, the time I spend with Payton is time I can't get back by working my ass off to be able to afford weekly pedicures, car washes, daily Starbucks, etc. I know that she won't remember me being home with her when she's older. But I remember and I would hate to have to give that up for a 9-5!

Payton's hand-me-downs

2011-05-22T14:14:00.000-07:00

Payton loves her hand-me-downs she gets from her Aunt Katey. We haven't gotten a lot (Katey is almost 10), but we've gotten a few shirts. Usually, Payton wears them as a night shirt with her pull-up to bed. Not last night. I told her to go get dressed for dinner with the family, as she doesn't let me pick out her clothes anymore. She came back with a shirt Katey had given her. Instead of fight with her, I put on some capris and called it a dress. This keeps both Payton and I sane and with all hairs on our head in tact. Here she is modeling her shirt/dress before dinner.

Here I am at 32 weeks.

2011-05-17T12:15:00.000-07:00

Today, Payton and I met Holly and Carter at Bounce U. Payton and I have never been there, but it was awesome! Payton had a blast and lasted almost the full two hours. I suspect she'll have a pretty good nap today! It amazes me how fearless she is and how balls-to-the-wall she goes when she plays. It was so fun to stand back and watch her play and enjoy life! Being 8 months pregnant, there isn't a lot I can participate in with her so it's nice she's confident enough to do it herself.

Sunday Funday

2011-05-16T12:16:00.000-07:00

My Grandparents were supposed to be leaving on Sunday morning to head to Idaho, Utah, and Oregon for the summer. Their plans changed and they are here for another week! Payton and I took full advantage by going over on Sunday for breakfast. Payton thought she was pretty sneaky and funny by snakeing grandma's coffee. Matt had to work all day on Sunday, so my grandma accompanied Payton and I to do our grocery shopping. It's almost mandatory to have an extra body with me on my bulk shopping days. Thanks grandma!!

After our shopping was finished we went back to grandma's to perm her hair and cut grandpa's hair. Payton thought the rollers were pretty sweet and wanted them in her hair too. She looked pretty stinking cute.
I figured that once we took out grandma's rollers Payton would want hers out as well. I was wrong, she went home and napped on them. Ouch! When she woke up we went to Costco then over to Dad and Robin's for dinner. Yes, she wore the rollers through Costco. We got some stares and some "look at how cute she is comments". I'm sure people thought I was torturing my poor two year old into public humiliation, but she wouldn't let me take them out! We arrived at Dad and Robin's with rollers in her hair and about 30 minutes later she finally let me take them out. This is the end result, pretty cute!!

My little man

2011-05-13T10:50:00.000-07:00

This week we had our 30 week ultra sound appointment. After failing my 1 hour glucose test I had to go back for a 3 hour test to see if I have gestational diabetes. Luckily, I passed the 3 hour and have nothing to worry about! Our ultrasound tech was new (she was being closely watched by someone) so it took forever and we only got 1 good picture of our little man. Good news is, he's healthy and ahead of the game.

My handsome *little* son :)

Here are his stats: 4.2lbs with 10 weeks to go. He's measuring 2 weeks ahead of schedule with a due date of July 4 and will probably be 8lbs or bigger at birth! So glad this long pregnancy is producing such a healthy, strong boy!!

Child labor laws:

2011-05-08T16:52:00.000-07:00

I don't believe in them!! These were not posted on facebook because of the nudity but thought too cute not to share!

Marley Farms

2011-05-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

On Friday Payton and I met some friends at a local petting zoo/farm. The first thing I noticed was an equestrian course. I have never missed or felt a pull to riding again as I did that day. Watching the woman train with her coach and riding the horse over the jumps, I missed it! Of course, 7 and a half months pregnant is definitely not horse riding time.

Payton had fun, but is definitely leery with the animals. She wanted to pet them so bad, but kept saying "goat bite" or "horse bite". There was a huge camel there and I have to admit, I was leery of it at first too. I watched it for a while then decided he was somewhat harmless and posed for a picture with Payton. She did not want to take her eyes off the camel! It was warming up, so after about an hour we left and headed to McDonald's for some lunch and indoor playtime before nap time. It worked like a charm, she napped for 2 hours!!

My big girl waiting to enter the "pet zoo"

Soon there will be a little brother in our pictures!

The camel.

Peek-a-boo

On our way to "fries play" aka McDonald's!

So emotional

2011-05-05T20:21:00.000-07:00

The past few days I have been so emotional. I walk in on Payton getting dressed and she's trying to put her gellies on, but struggling. When I sit down to help her I realize she has a gellie (her first of 3 pairs) is from 2 years ago that are a size 1. Seeing that shoe and how big her foot is today I couldn't help myself, I bawled. Poor Payton couldn't figure out why I was crying and why her shoe wouldn't fit!

Later that same evening this google commercial came on and I bawled at that too. Here is the commercial http://youtu.be/R4vkVHijdQk . The closer I get to Jordan's arrival the more emotional I get. Mostly because I enjoy Payton and we have so much 1 on 1 time and I have such a strong bond with her I don't want her to feel any of it lessen. I don't want her to feel Jordan's taking away from "her time" and I don't ever want her to think I love her less because she now has a brother that will require a lot of mommy's attention.

My heart has so much "Payton space" in it I question if there will be enough space left for "Jordan space". I don't question whether I'll love him or not, I already do. But, can you have two loves that are equally as deep? My love for my husband is deep, but a different kind of love than the love for my child. I think of it as separate types of love, separate chambers. When you have two children, are they loved equally? Looking at my family, in laws, and families around me I see different bonds. There's a mother-son bond, a mother-first child bond, a mother-baby of the family bond, a mother-daughter bond, but is the love equal? Mother's love their children, but can anything compare to the love of your first child? Think about it...you have all your firsts with your first child. First sponge bath, first sink bath, first temperature, first cold, first shots, first falls, first scrapes, first time hearing "mom" or "love you". Is it as special the second time around? Or are you so used to the older child doing it, you hardly think about the first "love you" the second time around? Surely I can't be the only one who is/has gone through this. I pray that I am the most loving, fair, appreciative of all the firsts, encouraging mom to both my children. I don't ever want them to feel I like him better than her and vise versa.

10 weeks

2011-05-04T19:59:00.000-07:00

Here I am, 10 weeks away from my due date! It has been a long, long, long 7 months for my husband and me. People always say "never compare your children to eachother" but I've yet to hear someone say never compare your pregnancies to eachother. As I've said before, this has been a tough road and I'm ready to start the road with Jordan in my arms. I have a *big* feeling I won't last the full 40 weeks. I'm uncomfortable, have a hard time sleeping, and have already dropped. I had none of this with Payton, expecially this early. I get braxton hicks contractions consisitently throughout the day, and they are extremely uncomfortable. We have our 30 week ultrasound on Monday, and hopefully he's no longer breach and in the correct position. The last ultrasound I had he was measuring a week earlier, so it will be interesting to see where he's at 12 weeks later. My only wish dear son, is that you wait until 38 weeks when your lungs are developed and you're strong enough to be born.

A memorial

2011-04-28T13:54:00.000-07:00

Last week Payton and I were invited to a Celebration of Life party for my friends son, Dash, who was taken too soon. I was so honored and excited to be invited. Payton was not looking forward to going to a party she kept saying "no, Payton home." Unfortunately for her, this was a celebration we *weren't* going to miss. It was very emotional for me, being pregnant with a son, celebrating her son's short life. She planned a balloon release and gave a blue balloon to both mommies and child that attended. We all released the balloons at the same time to send them to Heaven. Needless to say I'm pretty sure everyone had goosebumps and teary eyes. A couple of our mom friends planned for us to plant a garden in his memory in their backyard. It turned out beautiful, but unfortunately I don't have any pictures. The one picture I have I stole off facebook! Here it is, the balloon release. Thank you Greiger family for including us in your celebration :)

The nursery is finished!

2011-04-28T13:36:00.000-07:00

I have been asking Matt for 3 weeks to move the computers out of the nursery so I could move the furniture and hang all the wall art. This past weekend I asked him what my chances were of him actually accomplishing this and his reply was "good". Evidently his reply was like asking a magic 8 ball, not reliable. On Monday, I spent the day (6 months pregnant) moving furniture, hanging wall art, and moving more furniture. On top of that, I mowed the grass, swept and mopped the floors (our house is tile) did the laundry and cleaned the guest bathroom. To say I was exhausted is an understatement, I could barely move on Tuesday. Did I learn my lesson? Probably not the lesson I should have! Needless to say his room is complete and I love walking into his room knowing in about 3 months I will get to show him all my hard work.

Here is the view when entering his room. The kitchen chair will hopefully be replaced by a glider with ottoman.

I love the baseball knobs!

His infamous scoreboard above his crib.

I put a lot of work into this bumper. Up next is a quilt to match made by yours truly :)

What a difference a year makes!

2011-04-18T10:18:00.001-07:00

As I said in an earlier post, we went to Holly's for Payton's Easter pictures. Holly did our Easter pictures last year and we loved them. Here are last years pictures.

And here are this years. I really love the joy that's on her face from last year, you can tell she had fun with that bunny. This year she seems a little more *staged*. As she gets older it's harder to have people who don't know her well photograph her as she seems to get a little nervous or unsure about the whole thing. Holly did amazing and got some beautiful shots of Payton opening up and having fun.

Jordan's Nursery

2011-04-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

I have been working hard on Jordan's nursery. Yes, we have a name!! Jordan Matthew will come home to the cutest nursery on the block! I knew that I wanted to make his bedding and a few accessories. Grandma and I set off to Joanne's in search for fabric. When we arrived she asked me what I had in mind. I told her I wasn't really sure and that something would jump out and grab me and that we'd go with it. The only thing that grabbed me was a navy blue background with baseballs. I have since turned the nursery into a baseball theme. We don't expect him to play baseball, but I saw it fitting since his Daddy was a great baseball player and enjoyed playing for years.

I came up with the idea to put a scoreboard above his crib and started googling. I found scoreboards alright. I could buy a real one for about $500 or I could buy a vinyl sticker that didn't match the decor for $100. Now, if we owned this house and I knew we'd be here for years, I'd have no problem spending the money on the vinyl sticker. I can't imagine they move well, so I contacted an uber talented friend of mine about her making one for me. And boy did she!

I picked up some simple letters to spell out his name and painted them navy and red to match his bedding. The first thing Matt said was "U of A colors? Really??" Honestly, that's the first thing I thought of when buying them and thought about doing red and white or blue and white lettering but with white walls it wouldn't have looked as nice. So I thought eh, no one will notice. I was wrong! I married into a sun devil family (proudly I might add) and I'm sure it won't be the last time our rivals colors are noticed.

This is the fabulous scoreboard Heather made. You can see the tutorial and how much work she put into it here... http://acoupleofcraftaddicts.blogspot.com/2011/04/baseball-themed-nursery-art.html

I also found a quote by Babe Ruth that I liked and asked her to make it out of vinyl stickers. Since Jordan's room is still half our office, the safest place to put it was above the window. I happen to really like it up there. I bought a few baseball pictures that I'm waiting on frames for before I take pictures and show you all.

Easter Bunny

2011-04-10T13:21:00.001-07:00

Today we went and visited the Easter Bunny. Payton was so excited and talked about it all the way into the mall, until she was face to face with the bunny himself. She waved, and blew kisses but wanted nothing to do with sitting in his lap. She did pose for 2 pictures the one posted below and one with a horrible open mouthed crying face. When she was done she said "mommy done, bye bunny" and waved. Hopefully she'll be braver next year when little brother is with us.

On Friday before school we went over to Holly's for Easter pictures with an actual live bunny. As you may recal we did this last year as well. Payton did so well and I can't wait to see the pictures and share them with you!

Zoo Day

2011-03-29T14:51:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately the past 3 weeks have been no bueno in the Snyder household, so Payton and I have done so much of nothing that I got cabin fever and a bit of depression. Last weekend Matt really stepped up and helped out around the house and started painting the furniture for little man's nursery. Combine that with an all day sew-fest with my grandma (for little man's bedding) I was pulled right out of my dark place! Today, Payton and I met my friend Jada and her son Ryder at the zoo then met my dad for lunch. She is still sleeping 2 hours later, and it felt so good to feel the sunshine and warmth again :)

Time-Out

2011-03-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

Since starting school Payton has started hitting. Not kids in class, thankfully, but Matt, the dogs and me. Today while cleaning her playroom she comes in and sits Pengie in a chair and says "mom, Pengie in time out." I asked her why he was in time out and she said "he hit". Too funny, but at least it's soaking in that it's not nice to hit!

School

2011-03-14T19:42:00.000-07:00

Payton had her first day of school a couple weeks ago. She goes two days for the whole day while I'm at work. I have been so ready for this next step, Matt not so much. The first two weeks were rough, I had to carry her in and had to leave with her crying. The teachers said that as soon as I left she was fine and asked a couple times where I was. Last week she walked in and shed a couple tears (I'm sure just to make me feel guilty). This week I'm hopeing for no tears and for her to start getting excited about school. They do all kinds of fun things and Payton has been bringing home a ton of knowledge. Today while cleaning her playroom I asked her to help me pick up her toys. She brought me a building block and said "green" then found a "yellow" and "orange" block. She gets confused with red and pink and calls them both pink. She plays duck duck goose and loves to hold hands all of a sudden. She's liking it but just doesn't want me to know it!

Baby Boy

2011-02-16T07:15:00.000-08:00

We had our 18 week anatomy ultrasound yesterday. Baby is completely healthy, measuring 1 week ahead of schedule and we are thrilled to announce it's a boy!! Unfortunately the tech didn't get a picture of his "part", but he's deffinitely a boy.

Night and Day

2011-01-30T12:48:00.000-08:00

This pregnancy is the complete opposite of my pregnancy with Payton. I have been sick, uncomfortable, emotional as all get out, needy and exhausted. This pregnancy has been different also in the way Matt is handling it. Last time he wanted to "fly by the seat of my pants and take the hits as they come." Now he knows the drill and has been so helpful, supportive, encouraging, and loving, it's amazing! He helps with housework, dinner, bath time, etc.

When Payton was first born or even her first year really, it was like pulling teeth to get him to give her a bath, feed her, or just help out in general. Now, he actually enjoys it and does it just to get "some time in with her". Their bond has grown by ten folds and it's absolutely amazing to watch. There is nothing sweeter than to see the two of them snuggling while reading a book, watching Barney, or rough housing. Those are the things I remember most with my Dad and know Payton will treasure the memories as well.

One night I was cooking dinner and just started bawling. Matt was very concerned and asked if I was okay. I replied "no, I'm not okay. I cry 5 times a day then I cry because I cry too much. This pregnancy is just so hard, how am I gonna make it 6 more months?" He was very comforting and reassuring, then said "it has to be a boy, only MY son would torment his mother from in the womb." We both laughed and felt better, but it's true and I know Cheryl will get a laugh out of this story.

Here's to hoping it gets better!

Potty Training Success!

2011-01-18T10:42:00.000-08:00

I can finally say with confidence that Payton is potty trained! Yesterday was our first day of outings and she had no accidents, and told me when she had to "potty". It was a rough couple of months, mainly due to my pregnancy symptoms. I can honestly say that without the help of my grandma, Payton wouldn't be potty trained already. My grandma really worked with her on the days she had Payton and held her accountable for her accidents. A big thanks to my Grandma!!

Time-outs are a success!

2011-01-17T06:40:00.000-08:00

Matt said to me yesterday "I know this probably sounds weird, but her behavior seems to be better." It sounded weird because she was whining at that exact moment, but he is correct! I have been very diligent in time-outs for her bad behavior and explaining to her why she is being punished and how we expect her to act. To be honest I don't feel I have high expectations for a two year old, but I do expect her to listen when she's being talked to, must say please if she wants something, and I refuse to be yelled at. Needless to say she knows how to push me and knows when to stop. I'm so thankful time-outs have worked for her, otherwise I don't know what the alternative would be.

Freestone Park

2011-01-13T14:28:00.000-08:00

Today Payton and I went over to my Dad's to cut his hair then out to lunch. We went to Super Salad and Payton loved it, epecially the icecream with sprinkles at the end! Payton kept telling me "play park" so after lunch we went to Freestone Park. She fed the ducks and played on the playground and came home and crashed for a nap.

Zoo Day

2011-01-13T14:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Payton and I headed to the zoo to "play" as she says. She had a blast and leaving wasn't exactly fun. Her favorite part was the cows or the goats in the petting zoo (which she called cows and horses). We got there about 8:30am and it was freezing, next time we go it will be a little later in the day so we can enjoy it more. So glad I got a membership, we are coming up on some great weather!

Terrible Two's

2011-01-10T08:04:00.000-08:00

Well, unfortunately the terrible two's have hit our house. My well-behaved daughter is now a whiny, complaining (very loud I might add) toddler. She tries to be very demanding and assertive to secure what she wants. We are back in time-out mode where I feel most of our days are timeouts and apologies...again! It is pretty difficult to stay on top of my patience and composure while my raging hormones and sensitivity are at an all time high. I honestly don't remember feeling this sensitive and such high ups and low lows last time. I guess that comes with being pregnant during the "two's". At least I can say I'm blessed that I don't have a newborn and a screaming tornado. Hopefully I can nip it in the bud before the new baby comes!

As for me I am feeling better each day and am actually getting out of the house again! It's amazing what a little socialization for me and Payton can do for us. This week we are scheduled to go to Jump Street and indoor play place with bouncy houses and such to expend some of this tornado like energy and hopefully a long nap afterwards.

Miss Independent

2011-01-05T18:04:00.000-08:00

Payton has been asserting her independece more and more (I know who can believe it). Today I layed out a top, black pants, socks, and shoes for her to wear today, because heaven forbid you try and dress the kid...she can do it herself! Evidently, that's not what she wanted to wear. She came out ten minutes later in grey skinny pants, a different shirt, socks and her jellies! It reminded me of a story my grandma had told about a day she was getting me ready for preschool ( I had stayed the night at her house) and she went to put some barrets in my hair. The story goes that I took the barrets and threw them on the counter and said "these DON'T match my outfit" attitude and all. Needless to say I didn't wear the barrets that day.

If I find out I'm having another girl (my original "plan" was boys) I'm convinced I will just laugh. I will be happy with either, but the thought of a little boy along with my spitfire girl is what I'm hopeing for. I know the whole "as long as their healthy" thing, and it's true but if I'm honest I really would like a boy!

Payton's two year pics

2010-12-28T15:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve

2010-12-26T18:34:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve at Dad and Robin's along with my brother. Robin made my absolute favorite meal, pot roast! It was so nice hanging out as a family with my brother there. Payton adores her "gul" and her grandpa "pop". She had a blast helping everyone open their stocking and seeing the treasures that were left for us. Then, she loved opening the packages. She was a "tad" spoiled, but she absolutely deserves it, next year it won't all be about her.

She got a horse!

helping Noni with her stocking

Opening her stocking

Our growing family

This pretty much sums up how they feel about eachother

Riding with Daddy

Our stockings

Payton turns TWO

2010-12-23T12:05:00.000-08:00

I don't know how it has happened, but Payton turned two on Monday. Her party was supposed to be on Sunday, but Matt ended up in the hospital Friday afternoon til Sunday afternoon, so we had to cancel it. We weren't doing a big party this year with a ton of friends, we were just planning on a family get together to celebrate her day. Payton has gone from a 7lb 7oz newborn to a 26lb stunning toddler.

On Monday I wanted to do something special so I asked Emily and Katelyn to come with us to Makutu's Island. It is a huge indoor play place that has arcade games, a cafe, and many jungle gym things with slides. Payton and the girls absolutely had a blast! My cousin and his family were in town from 29 palms, so they met us there as well. After 2 hours I asked Payton if she was ready to go home and she said "NO" so we stayed an extra 30 minutes.

Later in the evening we had a very impromptu birthday party at Barros Pizza with my grandparents, brother, and 2 cousins from out of town. Payton had such a wonderful day surrounded by people that love and care for her. You could tell she knew the day was all about her, and she especially liked when people sang "Happy Birthday" to her.

And baby makes 4

2010-12-16T05:55:00.001-08:00

Now that I am 10 and a half weeks pregnant, I feel confident enough to announce it! The past 6 weeks have been a roller coaster to say the least. I have gone from feeling great and excited for the Holidays to being upset and feeling sick morning to night. I have literally been sick from the moment I wake up to the moment I fall asleep. This pregnancy caught us off guard and was unexpected. It's funny, just one month prior I had confided in a friend that I was unsure about adding another baby into our family. Lately I had been feeling unsure about whether or not I could handle two children without being committed to an asylum. Payton went through a rough patch where I felt our whole day consisted of time-outs and apologies. I felt that I couldn't or wasn't able to give another baby as much attention and love as Payton has received since she became a part of our family. All of Paytons wonderful qualities will be amazing when she is an adult, but she is a toddler and it amazes me the abundance of self confidence, will power, bargaining, and slyness she has in her. How could I possibly care for a newborn when I have to constantly watch Payton and be on my A game?

Needless to say, I am now happy and ready to plan a nursery, find out the sex, and name this little life. People say "all in God's time" and I've always believed it, but now I understand it. He has the confidence in me when I don't have it for myself. He has trusted me with another life to help mold, direct, and protect. If He knows I can do it who am I to say I can't, right?

Potty Training Flop

2010-12-01T08:39:00.001-08:00

Payton was doing so well with potty training. Well, realistically I was doing really well potty training. I mean it is my responsibility to stay on top of her and coach her on how it all works. She did really well the first week and has continually gotten more lazy about it. She has gone to my dad and said she had to pee and take him to the potty, but I'm convinced she doesn't want to please me and give me the satisfaction of her being potty trained. With not feeling well during her second week I lost all get-up-and-go to stay on top of her. Hopefully, we can get back on track and have her potty trained by 2011! She is ready and shows signs of being ready. She'll say pee and continue to stand there with pee running down her leg. I never dreamed this would be so frustrating! Here's to sucess in the future!

Some Christmas Pictures

2010-11-29T06:04:00.000-08:00

I asked Robin if she would take some pictures of us in front of her beautiful tree for our Christmas cards this year. She had a really cute idea of having them be casual and in our jammies and I think they turned out really cute! Of course I had to get some of Payton in her beautiful Christmas dress as well. Enjoy!

Picture day and Payton's first "date"

2010-11-22T11:37:00.000-08:00

Robin has been asking me to get with her so she can take some pictures of Payton. Yesterday we finally got out and headed to the park to get some fun candid shots. None of the following pictures are posed, set up or encouraged. This is just what she does!

Her and Grandpa sharing a moment.

Lots on her mind.

"Posing" for her photo op

She is a ham and loves to have her picture taken.

She usually tells me "mo" when I'm taking pictures of her.

Woo!!

"Posing" yet again

This is a little boy who was at the park with his grandparents. We do not and have never seen (Matt hopes never will see again). I call this their first date!

Seriously? They went for a walk by the lake. What you can't see is me on the left, his grandma on the right making sure they don't get too close to the water and Matt freaking out in the background.

Fountain Hills

2010-11-16T11:46:00.000-08:00

On Sunday we went up to Fountain Hills for the day. It was absolutely beautiful out and Payton loved it. Matt and I learned that it is very hard to roam and look at all the vendors with a toddler who wants to run and roam.

Potty Training

2010-11-16T11:42:00.000-08:00

I have officially started potty training Payton! Today is day 2, and I must say I'm pretty proud. Yesterday it seemed she was peeing all over the place and having accidents everywhere. Today however has been a breeze. She has done both types of potties and loves saying "bye" as the toilet flushes. She even came to me, said "pee" and we rushed to the potty and sure enough she went!! I can't believe what a big girl she has become and how quickly she's learning. Hopefully, the rest of the week follows suit!

Halloween Pictures

2010-11-08T09:04:00.001-08:00

Payton's costume was too cute, so I wanted to get some pictures of her in it!

She needed the matching bucket.

Pengie of course was with us!

Polenating.

Cutest bumblebee around

Halloween

2010-11-08T08:57:00.001-08:00

Halloween was really fun this year! All week Payton and I practiced "trick-or-treat" but all she got was "treat". We went to The Snyder's to go out with Katelyn and Cheryl. Payton wasn't very interested in wearing her costume or having pictures taken. Once we headed out and she figured out that you go to peoples houses and they give you candy, she was all in!! She had a blast and every time you asked her if she wanted to get in the waggon, she said "NO". By the time the night was over all three of us were worn out.

This was on the way back home. I bribed her to sit in the waggon with a sucker!

Cleopatra

Tortilla Flats

2010-10-26T19:50:00.000-07:00

On Sunday grandma and grandpa invited us to go to Tortilla Flats with them. I have never been and am always down for a day trip so Payton and I crashed their day. Unfortunately Matt hasn't been feeling well so he stayed home. We stopped at Canyon Lake first and Payton was so excited! She kept saying "water water". From there we headed into Tortilla Flats and ate lunch. After lunch we drove to a place with a beautiful view. I guess when the settlers came through that was the road they took (it's still a dirt road). To say Payton liked it is putting it mildly, she was enamored with the view. She kept saying "whoa" like it was the best thing she's ever seen or been to. We were all feeling it, but for someone so tiny to appreciate it was amazing! On our way back into the valley we stopped at the little ghost town and saw Uncle Brandon hard at work and posed for a picture by the church. Thank you grandma and grandpa for such a wonderful day!

Cutest Bumble Bee!

2010-10-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of Payton modeling her Halloween costume!

Toddler Bed

2010-10-26T10:45:00.000-07:00

Payton climbed out of her bed earlier this summer. Matt and I were not wanting to deal with the "fight" of the toddler bed so he took the mattress and put it all the way on the floor inside the crib. This would mean Payton would have to literally scale the crib to get out. It lasted, until a couple weeks ago! Matt was making breakfast getting ready for work while I was still sleeping (it was 6am) when Payton greeted him in the kitchen. I decided this was too unsafe and prepared myself for the hellish week my friends have been talking about.

While Matt was at work I took apart her crib and converted it into a toddler bed! We went and bought a bed rail so she won't roll out and prepared myself for bed time. She loves her big girl bed! She hops in, lays down and sleeps. She wakes up and waits patiently in bed until I open her door (that's her cue to get up) then she comes out. It has been so easy and a such a relief! I guess God figures I have had and will have plenty of obstacles with her, this was not to be one of them!

An update

2010-10-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Well, my mom made it to Texas. It has been rough on her and Payton but it will get easier with time. Our insurance company denied Matt's claim for the Remicade...of course what's new?! The Dr is going to go straight to the prescription company (why I have no clue) and if that doesn't work he will hold a board meeting to plea our case. Matt is a very private person, especially with his diagnosis, so I stay out of it unless I'm asked my opinion or he needs a sounding board. He is very frustrated and upset by the outcome so far but has decided to put it to good use. Each infusion costs about $10,000 (no it's not a typo) so as you can imagine there are a lot of people who can't afford their medication. Matt is looking into starting a non-profit foundation to help Crohn's patients cover the cost of their meds. This is why I married this man, he has a big heart.

I'm going to end on a happy note and leave you with some recent Payton pics!

Playing Xbox with Pengie

She has become obsessed with coloring. She eats crayons so I bought washable markers!

Her new stunna shades

This girl loves her dogs :)

Waiting for Mommy's car to be fixed.

Kendra and Joey do Chandler

2010-09-14T14:35:00.000-07:00

My sister and Joey arrived on Wednesday and left this morning. We had a very busy week that pulled me out of my "funk". Kendra and Joey aren't used to being on the go as much as Payton and I , but boy were they troopers! We went to Bounce Jungle, Peter Piper Pizza, had family pics done, and goofed around from sun up to sun down. Payton and Joey are pretty different. Payton is so independent and confident and aggressive. Joey loves to be with his mom, see his mom, and doesn't like her out of his sight. Joey is a little unsure of Payton and her antics, especially when she hugs him. Her hugs are more like a choke hold lol! The visit was bitter sweet for me. The DeRose's were supposed to come for Christmas, but since mom is moving there October 2 they are no longer coming. It will probably be April before I see any of them again, as April is my yearly trip to Texas for Joey's birthday. Here are a few pics of our busy week!

Cousinly love

At Bounce Jungle

This one cracks me up!!

Since both kids are extremely mobile pictures weren't as frequently taken this time. We had a blast and can't wait to see them again :)

Update

2010-09-14T14:24:00.001-07:00

As a pretty positive person I hate to say this but life has been pretty bleak for me lately. It seems mountain after mountain has been placed in my path and the next mountain is somehow bigger than the last. I won't go into specifics, but little by little things are getting better. I have never been defined as a fragile person, but that's how I've felt the last month. Little things that mean nothing would throw me into tears. I guess that's where the saying "the straw that broke the camels back" came from. In the middle of all this ciaos Amber invited me to a M.O.M.S group through Central Christian (Amber and I both attend EVBC) so I decided to go with her. It is a group of women who are all moms and we discuss mommy stress and how to reconnect with family, friends, and most of all God. We are reading The Bathtub is Overflowing But I Feel Drained by Lisa TerKeuerst. Could not have been more perfect timing for me! Little by little things are looking up, but by no means am I through the clearing.

I'm switching jobs...again. I'm going back to my previous job and am actually thrilled. The things I thought I wanted aren't really panning out for me. Right now I need familiarity, love, friendliness and support. Something I have received the past 5 years up until I changed salons. I have too much going on in my life to add the stresses of being a new business owner surrounded by snobby, bitchy people. I am grateful for the opportunity to try it out, now I know that's not for me.

We are just waiting on the results for Matt's chest ex ray before he can start treatment. I believe he is going to go the Remicade route with the 2 hour iv hook up. All this is extremely scary and worrisome for me. I think it's mostly because it's so unknown and you're never sure how you're body is going to react to a "radical treatment" until it's faced with one. Please keep my husband and family in your prayers!

Prescott

2010-09-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

Every year for the past 3 years over Labor Day weekend we go up to Prescott for a day trip. The courthouse square is packed with vendors selling their "goods". We hardly ever buy anything, but love taking our dogs, walking around, and enjoying the cooler weather! Last year we took Payton and Kaiah and Payton cried the whole 2 hours home. This year we opted to leave her with Grandma and just take Rocco and Kaiah. I had some reservations leaving her behind, but it was a nice day. We then came home, picked up Payton and went to our neighbors for a BBQ and pool time!

This was on the drive up to Prescott.

Kaiah

Rocco

And the drive home.

One Year

2010-09-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

We are one week shy of Matt's "anniversary" of his hospitalization. It has been a long, stressful, trying, and the most un-easy year EVER. Matt went into the hospital Labor Day of 2009 and has just been "clinically diagnosed" with Crohn's Disease. Yeah, after 5 endoscopy's, a fluoroscopy, xrays, countless blood draws, 3 biopsies, a pet scan, and thousands of dollars billed (thankfully mostly to insurance) we now have an answer. Now we prepare for the battle with the insurance to cover his medication which Matt will be on for at least 6 - 12 months. Matt has to decide whether he wants to be on Humira or Remicade. Humira is a self-given injection given weekly. Remicade is done through an IV on a sliding scale until you get to every 8 weeks. We are thankful we finally have an answer, although not the one we were hoping for. It's a relief to know "what's wrong" and how to fix it. Please keep our family and most of all Matt in your prayer chain!

20 Months - can you believe it?

2010-08-19T13:03:00.000-07:00

Payton will be 20 months old tomorrow. I cannot believe the changes she has gone through in the past month. Her new thing is not wanting to get in the car. She wants to "bye", but if it means getting in the car she'd rather stay. Once I do get her in the car, it's a chore to get her out. She is speaking so clearly and has a new word almost everyday! She still tries to get away with the perpetual whine instead of saying what she wants. I just tell her I don't understand whining and she needs to use her words so Mommy can understand her. Here are some words/sayings she is saying.

Mom
Dad
Kaiah (comes out Kai)
Cup
Juice
Bop (Baby Bop)
Bub (Bubbles)
Pop (my Grandpa)
Cat (comes out cock)..no I'm not kidding
Dog
Night Night
Night Night Dad
Bye
Bye Mom
No
Mine
Car
Duck
You get my point, for the child I thought quite possibly might never speak, she's doing amazing!

Here she is kicking back enjoying Barney :)

Her bellybutton

Bubbles

I know it is every moms "motherly duty" to think their child is amazing and great, well I'm no exception. Sure we have rough days where I need a glass of wine or a trip to the library alone, but I would never trade what I have with her for anything. I love that she likes to snuggle more than she has ever been, she lights up when Matt or I walk in the door from being gone, her hugs and kisses are first class, and she is so stubborn and independent!

Growing up

2010-08-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

This video is of Payton showing us her "parts". She is saying more and more words, although inconsistent it's improvement. We've done it...well I've done it. We're potty training! I've known for a while that she was ready, but wanted to wait until all our vacations were done so I could be consistent. Emily was watching her last Friday and Payton walked up to her and said "peeee" so Emily took her in to her potty and she peed! She has used the potty a handful of times, and even did number two this morning. We are nowhere finished but everyone has to start somewhere, right?

Here she is using her potty!

I have been post-vacation lazy lately, so today is the day I decided to do nothing but work on my house and get everything "spring cleaned". The dogs are at the groomers, laundry is being done, closets are cleaned out and I have to say it does feel good!

Helping me with the laundry.

Not happy I made her get out of the dryer.

San Fransisco

2010-08-10T10:45:00.001-07:00

For Fathers Day I purchased tickets to go and spend 4 days in California with out good friends Marcus and Theresa. It was a surprise to Matt but I would honestly say we both needed and deserved it! We had so much fun being Matt and Rebecca as opposed to Mom and Dad. We drank, ate, stayed up late, woke up late, and did a lot of walking! Hope you enjoy the pictures!

Wow

2010-07-23T20:44:00.000-07:00

Time seems to fly or stand still. Time is flying as of late. I have left the "homey" feeling of Cutters Cottage and have become self employed! When Matt's not "helping" me with ideas and his thoughts I'm very excited about my move and forsee a great future. Emily is 15 today, yes I said 15! I met her when she was just 5 and to watch her morph into a teenager is bewildering. I am so not ready for those years with Payton, luckily I have a few years to work on my kickboxing skills, I'm sure I'll need them.

In the past 10 years Emily has

*gotten her black belt in karate (or the likes)
*gone from Elementary School to Jr. High
*gone from Jr. High to Highschool
*became a big sister
*become a sister in law
*been a Jr. Bridesmade
*sang at a wedding reception
*made the cheerleading squad at Mesquite High School
*became and Aunt
*changed her first diaper
*had her first boyfriend

In addition to all these things she has become a beautiful, strong, caring and compassionate person. She might think this is "cool" or "lame" but 10 years from now, I think she'll appreciate it. I know that in some ways she feels she isn't as close to her brother as she'd like to be. But there is nothing he nor I wouldn't do for her and we both think about her all the time.

A couple months ago Payton and I were at lunch with my mother and sister in laws when Emily asked "if you are dating someone who isn't 18 yet but turns 18 and you're still 17 does that make it illegal since an adult can't be with a minor?" Cheryl's response was (to me) "do you wanna take this one?" ahem do I wanna take this one? Hell no, but I did. Try answering that at a table in a restaraunt with a 7 year old present. Not easy! I like to think I've got this whole "mommy" thing down, then miraculously I'm dealt with a situation that brings me back down to Earth where I belong.

I feel like I have friends without children and I have aquaintences who have children. Only mothers "get" that you can have complaints or trying days with your children but never hold resentment, regrets, or unloving feelings torwards them. Only a mother (maybe only this mother) would clean the house top to bottom only to find their child in the middle of the floor sans diaper peeing on the just cleaned floor and document it with a picture of the cutest naked butt doing the unthinkable and literally laugh about it. In the past month or so I've really worked on putting myself out there more and working on building relationships that will last and not come and go with the tide perse. Having "girlfriends" has been a tough thing for me due to past experiences. I'm picky about who I let "in" my life. Matt is and always will be my best friend, my confidant, and possibly my cell-mate. Yes cell-mate, if I commit a crime he's commiting it with me! But who do you go to when you need help dealing with your cell-mate? For a long time it was nobody. If I tell my mom, there's a chance of resentment if I tell his mom, that's her son. I can't tell my sister because her relationship is "perfect" she wouldn't understand. Yeah, I was wrong about the last one. Don't get me wrong Joe is an amazing husband and is perfect for Kendra, but there is no such thing as a perfect relationship. Everyone has trials and tribulations, ups and downs, happy days and sad days. Since my sister doesn't discuss these kinds of things with me, I tend to not discuss mine with her. Finally now that one of my longest friends is married, she gets me and it's amazing!

Videos and more pics.

2010-07-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

Here are some videos from our trip and some more scenic pictures!

Oregon -it's a long one-

2010-07-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

Payton and I went to Oregon for a whole week without Daddy. I had originally planned on only staying Monday thru Friday, but Matt said if I was going to go I might as well get my money's worth. So, we stayed a week! It was very fun and beautiful, but 7 days was just too long. Payton missed Matt, I missed Matt, and Matt missed us both. We got in Monday evening about 7 picked up some dinner and went to the campground to eat out by the fire. Tuesday, we just played and hung out. Wednesday we took a 2 hour drive (which included entering California and going back to Oregon) to head to the coast of Oregon. This was Payton's first time at the beach and she loved it. All I kept saying was "I sure wish Daddy was with us." Payton loved the sand and driftwood. The water, not so much! She loves water, as long as it doesn't chase her! Here is a cute video of Payton not liking the concept of waves.
After this was taken, anytime I would get close to the water she would fuss until I got close to her and far from the waves. I took about 500 pictures the entire week, so I will just post my favs!

This is Payton looking through a hole in some driftwood on the beach.

Not my favorite, but she's biting her nails like her Daddy.

This is Matt's favorite.

On the way home we stopped in the Redwood forest for some scenic shots and some beautiful surroundings!

Look how small we look!

This is the main bridge on the highway we drove!

Thursday Paula, Isac, Auntie Judy, Uncle Phil and Warren met Grandma, Payton and I for lunch then we all went to the Wildlife Images. This is a "zoo" that takes in sick or injured wildlife and nurses it back to health and releases them back into the wild. The animals that can't or won't survive are kept in their phacility and maintained by volunteers! Payton had a blast looking at all the animals.

Bald eagles!

Grizzly Bear

Cougar

Friday Pam, Eric, Alyssa and Julia came to camp for the weekend and spend time with us. It was great, because I have never known Pam and her family very well so I can now say I do! Alyssa and Julia were great with Payton and loved taking her to the playground and for walks in her stroller!

Here is Julia, Payton and Alyssa!

Waiting patiently to play in the river.

I believe this is why it's referred to "God's Country".

This is what I "had" to look at all week :)

Sickies

2010-06-09T10:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday after Church Payton, Matt and I went over to Ken and Angie's to hang out by the pool. It was hot out and what better way to spend it than out by the pool? Payton came down with a cold Saturday and it seemed to clear up Sunday. By Monday it was if full force. I had to call and cancel swim lessons, which I am really bummed about. We will start with swimming lessons in July after we get back from vacation! Since Payton has been sick, we have not gone anywhere, done anything, or seen anyone. We are both starting to get stir crazy so I think today we are going to be rebellious and go to Walmart lol. I need a few things and Payton will be confined to the cart so I won't have to worry about other kids catching her cold.

Yesterday I put Payton down for her nap in her diaper and a t-shirt. After she fell asleep I looked in the monitor and her cute little butt was facing me. She took off her diaper to nap in the nude! Funny as it is, she peed all over the place including on Pengie. Needless to say he needed to be washed. The following pictures show, in detail, how Payton feels about Pengie being washed.

Yeah, not happy at all! He made it through the wash, but not to the dryer. He air dried as Payton put him in the stroller and accessorized him. She cracks me up with how in love and crazy she is about him.

Snyder, Party of Four!

Like mother like daughter?

My two cents.

Texas

It was inevitable

Traveling

Exhaustion

The cousins visit!

New Years

Sickies

Christmas Day

Christmas Eve

Payton's Fabulous 3rs Birthday

My baby.

I Love:

Ten

Rice Cereal

Thanksgiving

Kendra's Visit

Christmas Pictures

Halloween

Mother Nature's Farm

Recents

Justice

Paytonisms

2 Months!

Thankful

Thank you Crohn's Disease

Just some recent pictures.

Blessed

Buddy

2 Weeks

It's a busy life!

Mom's Visit

Bringing home baby.

Jordan Matthew Snyder

Amazing

Independence Day

It's a serious one, folks.

Payton's sleep over

Some quick funnies

Maternity Pictures

Father's Day Fun!

Bored

Just a quick one!

Baby Shower

Day at the pool

More Kaiah and Payton

Swimmig in the Sea

Raising a child is like raising a dog?

Cheap

Payton's hand-me-downs

Sunday Funday

My *little* man

Child labor laws:

Marley Farms

So emotional

10 weeks

A memorial

The nursery is finished!

What a difference a year makes!

Jordan's Nursery

Easter Bunny

Zoo Day

Time-Out

School

Baby Boy

Night and Day

Potty Training Success!

Time-outs are a success!

Freestone Park

Zoo Day

Terrible Two's

Miss Independent

Payton's two year pics

Christmas Eve

Payton turns TWO

And baby makes 4

Potty Training Flop

Some Christmas Pictures

My little man