Estes Park 2010

We went up to Estes again this year with Trenton's family, and Shannon and Steve also joined us for the trip this time. It was a little different from past years- a lot of the family that usually comes along didn't join us for various reasons, and they were VERY missed. Shannon was having contractions the whole time we were up there and I was concerned (and by concerned, I mean excited) that at any moment, we would need to hop in the car and head back to the Springs. She didn't go into active labor though, so we stayed until Sunday morning. The tradition is definitely getting more difficult with two children- we might have to consider that moving forward. But I know that Emma and Ben made a wonderful memory. Emma enjoyed, more than anything, staying in the RV that Laurie and Darrel loaned us for the weekend. I think that was my favorite part too- staying up late and playing board games in the back of the camper. And of course, I always enjoy perusing the little shops and picking out the "Enchanted Tales" figurines that I treat myself to each year. I love the artist's work, and what I truly love about him is his trademark...ladybugs.

Although we had a good time, I don't think I've ever been so happy to be home. I think we were all just in the mood to be warm and cozy in our very own beds.

Until next time!

Janet, Trenton, Emma, and Ben

Pumpkin Patch

We took Emma and Ben to the Happy Apple Farm this weekend. Emma's favorite part was the hayride to the pumpkin patch where we let her take her time picking out her very own pumpkin. I love that my little girl picked the funkiest looking pumpkin in the patch. She's awesome. Anyway- after the farm we went for a scenic drive up Phantom Canyon and through cripple creek. The changing leaves were breathtaking.

Benny seemed content just being out in the warm sun and snacking on candy corn and Trenton's turkey leg.

What I love more than anything about this picture is the fact that Emma's the baby and she is sporting the biggest ice cream!

Happy Fall!
Janet, Trenton, Emma, and Ben

Botanic Gardens 2010

We took advantage of "Free Day" at the Botanic Gardens in Denver. Tad and Linsey joined us and this was the first time my two kiddos joined us. It was a perfect fall day, and the gardens were lush as usual. They have made a lot of positive changes to the place too. I will most definitely be going back soon.

Both kids fell right asleep on the drive home... And I was in heaven...

Until next time-

Janet, Trenton, Emma, and Ben

Odds and Ends

My Emma is now 33 months, 26 pounds, and bursting with fun new words and abilities. She's such a busy little lady!

Trenton and I were lucky enough to join our cousins Jessica and Garold as they were sealed to each other and their family in the Denver temple. I am so happy for them and proud of the choices they've made to get to this point. The kids were darling during the ceremony. The whole thing reminded me that my parents made a similar decision to be sealed 37 years ago. My brother Bill was 7, Heather was 4, Doug was 3, and Cathy was a crying little baby- just like Jessica's youngest, America. I still wonder where I would be, all of my siblings for that matter, if my parents hadn't made the decision to be baptized back when they were in their 30's. Thankfully, I'll never know!

Ben with my cousin Ben. There were several by the name of Ben at Jessica's house later that evening. It was hard to keep track!

Ben is getting ready to cheer on the Denver Broncos. They needed it that day!

This was the day before little Taylor was born.

Before I had kids I used to promise myself I'd never use one of these buggies you find at the grocery store. They're so hard to maneuver through the store and you just look ridiculous driving them around. I guess I was missing the whole point back then. They are awesome! I am able to get my shopping done without any tears and I have full usage of the basket for my groceries.

Trenton and I decided to paint our house a warm "sage" color. I was inches away from this when my sister yelled, "Janet- look what is behind you!" Are you kidding me?

Anyway, we had lots of help from Laurie and Tim, and those that were willing to share their ladders. Thanks you guys! I will post pictures of the paint job when it's completely done.

Little Ben is now 13 months, weighs 20 lbs., is cruising like it's his job, and saying: Mama, Dada, Hi Dad, Nana (banana), and Eyes. I'm sure there are more words in there somewhere- I just don't understand them yet. He has 1 tooth on the bottom and is working on cutting another. He loves music and starts dancing any time he hears a beat. He is a very snuggly little boy. He is going to be a monkey for Halloween. And he LOVES grandma's potato salad...

Emma is completely obsessed with her. She loves to rub her cheeks on Taylor's head because her hair is so soft.

Last weekend, Trenton indulged my once-a-year need to go to the Cracker Barrel. I love to go during the fall because they have both their Autumn and Christmas decorations displayed in the Country Store attached to the restaurant. Emma and Ben couldn't get enough of the biscuits and cornbread that they bring out before the meal. I had my favorite turkey sandwich, and I decided that if I ever give birth again, that's the meal I want brought to me in the hospital. Other than post thanksgiving, there's nothing better.

After lunch we walked around the shops at Briargate and Emma fell in love with the Pottery Barn Kids- specifically this Emma sized vanity. They also had all their Halloween stuff displayed, which was adorable. I wish I had the money to just buy one of their displays in its entirety. Someday maybe.

That night I went with my mom and sisters to the General Women's Conference and then we went and played some games at the penny arcade in Manitou. I didn't think it was possible to be normal again after my miscarriage. I didn't think I would be able to be silly again, but thankfully, I am beginning to get my sense of humor back.

Until next time-

Janet, Trenton, Emma, and Ben