The Kuhns Family

2010-01-08T12:14:00.003-07:00

Michael and I had a good laugh last night . . . the kids were playing which means it was plenty loud as we were trying to get them ready for bed. Michael asked Ashlyn, "Why is your voice always so high-pitched?" To which she replied, "Don't call me a pitch!"

Cave of the Winds

2010-01-06T21:02:00.003-07:00

12 November 09

Ashlyn's preschool took a field trip to Cave of the Winds. We had driven up there before, but had never actually paid money to check it out:)

We were lucky that Daddy was able to come with us too, and my friend watched the boys.

It was pretty hard to get good pictures in there because it was just too dark. There are some cool pics on their website though.

As much as I love spelunking, it was also kind of nice and convenient to just walk through the cave on these nice, maintained paths.

These shoes gave me the eeriest feeling walking by them in the big, dark cave. I seriously felt like some crazy murderer was going to back himself out of this hole and chase me down!

Michael finally let me have his camera for a minute:) Handsome, huh?

Some of Ashlyn's classmates and her teacher, Mrs. Campbell whom she loves.

Daddy and Ashlyn.

2010-01-05T21:55:00.003-07:00

20 November 09

These are just to show you my drooly mop headed baby. He has had 5 or 6 haircuts during this first 10 months of his life (I honestly have lost count). It was getting really bad right before thanksgiving (these pics really don't do it justice), but I wanted to wait to let Aunt Melissa cut it. (Please ignore the pink choking hazard in his mouth!)

I mention the drool only because that is all my family talked about when I was in AZ for Thanksgiving - that he is a moist baby!

2010-01-05T21:48:00.003-07:00

31 October 2009

We took the easy/warm route this year for Halloween and paid a total of $.75 for these 3 costumes!

Dragon, skunk, and bunny

It fit Levi perfect - I am always thinking/saying that he is so stinking cute!

We did the trunk or treat at church, and our neighbor's joined us (Faith, Zack, and Bella).

Afterwards we went to a carnival at a nearby church and the kids had a ball - and it was warm!

Lincoln stocked up on plenty of his favorite treat - suckers . . .

And the next morning he just went for it! (I think he had 6 or 7)

Father & Son's Campout

2009-10-11T23:54:00.004-06:00

9/26/2009

Lincoln and Michael went on the Father & Son's campout. Michael didn't have work or school that Friday so they actually went up a night early. A funny story that happened was that Lincoln picked up something (food maybe? I don't remember) Friday morning and Michael told him that it was yucky and to put it in the fire. Lincoln kept himself entertained by finding yucky stuff to put in the fire for quite some time. At one point Michael observed that the fire appeared to be dripping. He finally realized that Lincoln had taken their 2 dirty breakfast bowls (non-disposable) and thrown them in the fire!

Michael likes to do things the easy way - no tent setting up for him! They slept in the back of the car.

On Friday night Michael sent me this picture message on his phone telling me that he had cut the tip of his finger off.

To be quite honest, I didn't look at his finger or these pictures until now because it gives me the heeby-jeebies, but now that it is healing quite well it's not nearly as disturbing for me. But at the chance that it might gross some of you out, Michael insisted that I post these next few graphic pics:)

Random Pics

2009-10-11T23:40:00.004-06:00

Ashlyn has been asking to take pics lately. Here's me dealing with the bills.

Here's Levi helping me with the bills:)
Ashlyn pulled out the camera at bedtime one night. I won't show you the pics she took of me, but here they are, all ready for bed:)

We had a lot of hail this summer, but still managed to get some edible tomatoes. They're not pretty, but they sure were tasty!

Michael's 32nd Birthday

2009-10-11T23:18:00.003-06:00

9/16/2009

Michael turned 32 on September 19th, and I threw him a small surprise party a few days early. (The Grover's were going out of town, so we had to do it before they left.) We had a few of Michael's favorite things - grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup, shrimp & cocktail sauce, and of course strawberry cheesecake. We love, love, love you Michael!

Daddy & the Kids

2009-10-11T23:09:00.002-06:00

Michael is a great daddy and loves playing with his kids . . .

First Day of Preschool

2009-10-11T22:39:00.005-06:00

8/24/2009

Here in Colorado Springs they have preschool through the public schools that is FREE! Ashlyn and I were thrilled when we recieved the phone call in July that her application had been accepted and that she made it in!!! In fact, Ashlyn was quite upset with me when I showed her on the calender that she had to wait a whole month to go.

Ashlyn has loved every minute of school so far. I am so grateful that she gets to go because she craves activities and projects and I am just not very creative or good at providing those as much as I should. The biggest problem is that Lincoln hates dropping her off - not because he is going to miss her, but because her classroom looks so fun and he wants to stay every time. I don't imagine that it's going to get any less enticing for him either - especially because he does get to go every once in awhile. They have lunch bunch once a month and so it's especially hard right after that! She goes Monday thru Thursday from 11:45 - 2:30. On the nicer days we walk - it's literally closer to walk than it is to drive! I'm a wimp in the cold though - plus I don't want to freeze my sweet baby!

Dora

2009-10-11T21:47:00.002-06:00

8/15/2009

We waited well over an hour in the hot sun in this line . . .

to spend 15 seconds standing next to Dora!

At least they had free hotdogs, a bounce house, and 2 free t-shirts for us. They were doing door-prizes every 20 minutes or so . . . they called Michael's name and we were sooo hoping for the $50 visa card, but no such luck. Just a t-shirt.

Lee Family Reunion Pictures

2009-09-27T23:47:00.000-06:00

6/30/2009 - 7/2/2009

I already posted a little here about Michael's reunion, but I am finally adding the pictures!

These parachutes were always my favorite in P.E. in elementary school . . .

apparently I still get a pretty big kick out of them.Dylan and Ashlyn. I loved how Dylan took care of Ashlyn.

Janet's daughter Melissa. She loved Levi and snatched him up every chance she got.

The kids had a ball miniature golfing.

Lincoln pretty much ran the whole course. He is always on the move!

Dylan and Duncan golfing with our kids.

Michael is so stinkin' creative. I would never think to do anything like this! Doesn't Dylan have beautiful eyes? By the way - it looks cooler when you click on each one to make it bigger.

Lincoln.

Michael got to take his sister Shannah out on their Dad's old fishing boat (he passed it on to Michael last fall).

It was pretty chilly and we didn't have enough warm stuff for the kids, but that didnt' stop them. They played on the shore until it finally rained.

John, Shannah, Kristen, and Dylan.

Hiking with Shannah's family.

Janet & Donna - these are Karen's sisters - two very special ladies!

So at family portrait time, this was the best we got. There were about a hundred other cameras clicking away though, so one of you must have gotten a better shot than this (at least a little more centered or at least with Lincoln's whole head in the pic :) - send them our way!! Please! :)

Karen's kids minus Scott & Ryan - everyone missed you guys!!

The Zane Lee family - well, the ones that showed up this year. See you all in 2011!

My Patio

2009-09-27T22:37:00.004-06:00

6/26/2009

This was the sad state that my backyard was in for way too long.
That is a concrete form. Which was masterfully crafted by my dear husband. (One of the concrete contractors that came over said he had never seen a homeowner actually succeed at building a form that would actually work - until he saw Michael's handiwork!)

I mostly just like Ashlyn in this picture:)

It was months and months before we actually had the fundage to fill the darn thing with concrete. The long awaited day finally came!! That is the concrete pump that arrived at 7:00 a.m. I am sure the neighbors loved us that morning!

Lincoln looks so tired here, but he was not about to miss out on the action. It was amazing how after waiting for over a year, the thing was poured and stamped in a matter of a few hours.

Stay tuned for the after pics!

Camping at Rampart Range

2009-09-27T21:28:00.011-06:00

8/6/2009

So the kids and I got back from our long trip on Wednesday evening and said goodbye to our good friends the Murdock's as they finished loading their Uhaul to move to Utah. Thursday morning we got up and packed for a 3 day camping trip with the Grover's. We headed up to Rampart Range Reservoir and had a great time. Amber always takes great pictures and these first few I stole from her blog - thanks Amber!
Ashlyn and Lincoln cuddling in the morning in my favorite camping chair.

Maely and the kids were having a great time playing in the hammock. It kept them entertained for quite awhile!

Love the joy on her face!

Lincoln never looks this somber at home, but he often does away from home when he's in new situations.

Maely and Ashlyn have been friends for three years now! And they are getting ready to leave us for Utah too :(

Enjoying smores.

More smores. That's Elliana with a huge marshmallow in her cute little face. She is such a sweet girl. She always makes me feel so loved:)

Adorable Amber with our bathroom on a stick. Dig hole, do business, wipe, cover hole. Same for the kids except we brought the chair part of a porta potty for them to sit on.

That is the sweetest little baby! Both of our boys threw up a few times on the trip - in their beds, but Levi doesn't let that get him down. He is such a sweet happy boy!!

Amber always thinks of the important things - like entertainment for the kids!

We all spent some time at the reservoir, but then Amber and I escaped with the 3 youngest (Lincoln, Elli, and Levi) and went back to camp while Michael and Dan spent some quality daddy time fishing with the kids. Amber and I got all 3 kids to sleep (it was a joint venture - thanks for the help Amber!), and got some much needed R&R. A few hours later when the guys got back I asked how the fishing went. Michael said, "Well, there's some things you just don't do when you're fishing." The kids had a blast playing, screaming, and throwing plenty of rocks into the water to scare the fish away.

She sure is cute anyway though! Oh yeah. I almost forgot. This is the day that Amber saved Ashlyn's life. The water was cold and the bank was steep. All of a sudden I heard noise and looked to where Ashlyn was. (Amber was with all of the kids and I was scouting for a picnic place away from the group). When I looked all I could see was Ashlyn face down in the water. Amber grabbed her so fast and got herself wet, but I was so grateful! The place where we were got deep pretty fast and it could have turned bad quickly. Heavenly Father was watching over us and Amber was His instrument. Thank you both!

Amber thinks up entertainment for the kids, and Michael and Dan usually come up with something to keep themselves entertained.

My sweet, sweet baby. This is his "always have my tongue poking out" stage.

We found this cool teepee the first day. There were plenty of sticks lying near that indicated it had seen better days. Just makes you wonder who built it and why . . .

We had a great time! Hopefully there will be many, many more to come.

One other funny thing I remember - our two families drove separately up to Woodland Park. There Amber and I went grocery shopping and the guys headed up to find a camping site. They had really poor cell phone reception, but were able to get through to us for a short time. Dan was giving me directions, and like I do with Michael, I was repeating everything to Amber. I am not very good at remembering the details, and so I count on Michael for that. We soon lost the call, and were headed into the forest. I started asking Amber things like, "Did he say turn right or left and the stop sign?" and she had no clue . . . she is just like me and relies on her husband to remember the details. We thought that was pretty funny. After some silent prayers, and a kind ranger of some sort we finally made it to camp:)

Finally Heading Home

2009-08-30T22:32:00.003-06:00

8/5/2009

After a quick visit to Vernal, UT to see Aunt Irene & Uncle Bob, it was finally time to return home to Daddy after 2 1/2 weeks. When my mom first asked me to go to AZ for my Grandpa's birthday party, Michael quickly calculated that it would be at the same time as finals and all but pushed us out the door:)

Before you all think that I am amazing for driving 3 kids from Colorado to Arizona to Utah and back home by myself, just know that I only did the last stretch by myself. Thank goodness! My mom was with me going to AZ, and my dad and I had a wonderful visit on the drive to UT, and the kids and I had a great time on the way home. Here's some proof:

Where else is Lincoln gonna stretch his legs when mom's nursing in the car because it's too stinking hot outside and Ashlyn's asleep in the back? In the barely big enough spot behind the steering wheel of course!

We took the long way home from Vernal and went down through Aspen, Colorado. It added a few hours to our trip, but it was well worth it. In the mountains it was cool enough to open the windows and the kids were having a ball in the back seat.

A tiny glimpse of the beauty we got to behold on our drive home. These pictures truly don't show it - the drive was breathtaking!

Becky J

2009-08-30T22:13:00.003-06:00

8/4/2009

Another person who is dear to my heart is Becky J. The kids and I got to visit her in Payson, UT a couple of times during our time in UT and Beck and I were able to really catch up. We put the kids to bed around 8:00, and then we crafted, talked, and laughed ourselves silly until 3:00 a.m. That was hard enough on me, but Beck is a pregnant mama! Thanks for sacrificing sleep to hang with me Beck!
No pics of Beck's Aaron here, but he's as cute as sweet Hannah.

Ashlyn is a fairly social girl and loved getting to play with so many cousins and friends on this trip - she was pretty much in heaven :)

2009-08-30T22:03:00.002-06:00

8/2/2009

My vacation with the kids to AZ had a fun twist and we ended up in Utah during the last week of July. My dad recently retired from Banker Insulation where he has worked since before I was born, and now he is spending his time working on their rental propertys, one of which is in Utah. The kids and I got to stay at Uncle Forrest's house for a week and I loved hanging out with all of them. They were some of my favorite cousins growing up and I spent quite a bit of time there during college too, but I hadn't been there for a few years for a real visit. Ashlyn had a ball playing her new Cinderella game with Tylie (Jake & Andrea's daughter).
The girls were so cute and I was just thrilled that Ashlyn was getting to enjoy time with Jake's daughter.

I Love This Stage!

2009-08-30T21:58:00.002-06:00

7/31/2009

Friends

2009-08-30T21:16:00.004-06:00

7/27/09 Kristi, Ali and I went to high school together. Crazy that between the 3 of us we have 10 kids now! These are the 7 older ones, and the 3 babies were inside.

Kristi and Ali came to visit me at my mom's house, and we sent the older kids outside with cup fulls of microwave popcorn (I think I popped 4 or 5 bags for them to keep them happy) and before long they had turned the pond into their own little swimming pool. Cracked me up!

Kristi's Elise sporting one of my latest headbands and flower clip.

And then later that same day, Muli came to visit!!!!!!!! We had not gotten to hang out pretty much since right after the mission. For those of you who don't know, Muli and I served together 3 different times in Florida, in 3 different areas for a total of 7 1/2 months. I love her! We got married about a month apart, but she was never able to get pregnant. That is her sweet little Brooke that her and her husband were able to adopt from Tonga earlier this year - such an amazing story and I am so happy for her. Thanks for coming to visit us!

Grandpa Benich's 80th Birthday

2009-08-30T20:46:00.005-06:00

7/25/09 So the main reason I ended up in Flagstaff in July with my 3 kiddos was for Grandpa's 80th birthday celebration. He is my grandpa on my mom's side, and is my only living grandfather. He loves to tell stories and has a lot of interesting ones to share! He has been an amazing gardener for as long as I can remember, and has served the Lord faithfully working in temple and spent a lot of time with the scouts back in the day. Happy Birthday Grandpa!
My Grandma and Grandpa had 4 more great-grandchildren at the beginning of the year. Macy was January 13th, Levi January 26th, Emma February4th, and Breelee was April 7th. Sooo cute, aren't they? This picture does not do her justice, but that little Breelee (3 1/2 months here) probably weighs as much as any of these older babies, and her thighs are ginormous - and it's all from her momma's milk - Kati's produces cream!

My 3 in front of Nana's house.

A Few Snapshots

2009-07-24T23:20:00.004-06:00

The best attempt Levi's had at sitting by himself. Maybe he would get more practice if he didn't have an older brother that constantly wants to sit/lay/roll over him.
In a very rare moment, Lincoln was spotted being absolutely still and even reverent. My dad found him sitting by the little waterfall/pond in my parents backyard and he was actually singing quietly to himself. I enjoyed the 60 seconds of peace.

Later that night, the kids singing Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes while Papa accompanied them on the guitar.

A short time later we moved to more comfortable seating and Uncle Brandon played for us.
Utter disbelief or major attitude? I'll let you decide.

Practice for Miss Meliss

2009-07-23T23:04:00.000-06:00

Melissa is starting cosmetology school next month - I am so excited for her to pursue this avenue! Anyway, I thought it was a great reason to have her cut Lincoln's hair. I just love his expressions - he was so mellow for the entire thing. He tends to get a little shy when out of his element.

Emma, Alaina, and Hair Bows

2009-07-22T22:26:00.001-06:00

So, our first photo shoot with these 2 cute girls (my nieces) was not extremely successful (no doubt largely because of my lack of skills), but at least I have a few more pictures of my bows on sweet little girls. It seems that most of my family and friends who have given birth within the last year all had baby girls - except for me! (While I wouldn't trade Levi for anything, I do occasionally stick a bow & headband on him - but he still looks like a boy!)

Here's Alaina with a Tiny Boutique in shocking pink w/white polka dots.

Emma with a pink Nylon/Lycra Headband and Medium Boutique bow w/pink daisies.

Emma with a shocking pink Nylon/Lycra Headband and Small Boutique w/neopolatin dots.

Emma in shocking pink Nylon/Lycra Headband and Medium Boutique w/hawaiian flowers.

Just a tiny sampling of the many, many bows and ribbon choices available!

Cow Appreciation Day

2009-07-10T21:57:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Carrie we knew about Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-fil-a. It took a little work to convince Michael, but after that it took less than an hour to make and put on spots, head to Chick-fil-a and each receive a free combo meal. It was a little embarassing walking across the huge drive-thru line, but once inside we were right at home among plenty of cow appreciaters. Overall we had a great time - and free dinner!

My Happy Boy in His Favorite Place

2009-07-07T22:19:00.003-06:00

Lee Family Reunion

2009-07-05T22:06:00.004-06:00

I really need to get to bed, but I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the wonderful week we just had. On Tuesday we headed up to Estes Park for Michael's family reunion. His mom passed away 9 years ago, and the reunion is for her parents and their posterity. It's so wonderful to spend time with his mother's family. First of all, we got to hang out with Michael's sister Shannah, her husband Eric, and their 2 kids Dylan and Duncan. They have lived in Oregon for about 3 years, we haven't seen them for as long, and with Ashlyn being 4, this is the first time she really knows that they are her cousins. I just loved watching Dylan with Ashlyn & Lincoln - even though she is older than them (she'll be in 3rd grade this year) she was really hanging out with them and I know that Ashlyn especially loved spending time with her. It was fun to watch Duncan with his dad and boy cousins too (he'll be in 1st grad this year). We enjoyed good laughs with Eric & Shannah and can I just say that Shannah is one hot momma?!

We haven't seen Michael's sister Kristen for a long time and we just love her to pieces. She is such a special girl - SO full of LOVE. So beautiful, so kind, so sincere. We miss living closer to her.

Michael got to see his aunt Janet for the first time in years. She was one of his mom's closest sisters and it was so nice to talk to her, catch up, learn of the wonderful things that have happened in her life, and learn more about Michael's mom, Karen. I got to meet his cousin Melissa (Janet's oldest daughter) and her beautiful family and I just love her. She reminds me of Kristen - so full of love and goodness.

There are many more of his wonderful family that we spent time with and we loved every minute of it. Thanks Dave for planning such a great reunion, and thanks Grandpa & Grandma Lee for having such an amazing family! We love them all!!

I am so grateful that families can be together forever!

2009-06-14T20:49:00.003-06:00

5/26 - It's sad when your son is wearing more pink than your daughter - he loves coats and shoes and this is what happened to be handy. He puts on whatever shoes are availalbe, and it's usually Ashlyn's - this time it was mine. It's also easier for him to put on Ashlyn's shoes that his own because they're bigger. Good news - I picked him up some new shoes for the fall that are a bigger size, and now he puts those on instead:)
6/1 - Ashlyn loves Levi, as she always has, and he likes her back now. She's much gentler, and maybe he's just a little more sure of himself in this world now. Ashlyn thinks it's funny when she cuddles with him like this because he sucks on her arm.

My sweet babes!

6/5 - This picture was taken by Michael, but you can pretend it's him because he climbed it too. Michael is in his 4th week of full-time school now, and I signed him up for a rock climbing class. Alyssa and I took a few PE classes together at BYU and it was such a nice break from the grind. Michael LOVES rock climbing and hasn't done as much of it since we got married, so he is really enjoying himself. This school stuff has been a transition for everyone. For the past 3 years he has gotten home from UPS around 9:00 or 9:30 a.m., and now he goes straight to school and we don't see him until 3:00 or 4:00 p.m. Then dinner, and bed for Dad and the kids at 7:00 p.m. He is working hard and we are so proud of him. He is mostly working on his generals, with a few computer classes mixed in. He hasn't quite decided which direction he's going with computers - there are so many choices!

6/6 - This cracked me up. Michael put a sprinkler on the lawn for the first time this season, and came back inside. Not 2 minutes later, we discovered that Lincoln had pulled it up onto the trampoline. It wasn't even hot out that day!

6/6 - I LOVE garage sales!!!! Colorado Springs is the best when it comes to Friday and Saturday morning bargains. One of my first sales of the season I got totally hooked up. A lady had 4 1/2 boxes of nursing pads for FREE! There wasn't anything else too appealing for me at her sale, but I bought a few shirts for the kids so I could at least give her a dollar.

This was quite the lucky stumble-upon. I was at a sale that didn't have my kind of prices (My fave's are when the clothes are $.25, but I will pay up to a dollar if I really love it). I was about to go when I spotted a bumbo for $2. I asked the lady how much it was (with her other prices, it couldn't be right!) and she said $2. At the same time as I shouted "I'll take it!", her neighbor who is also a young mother said, "What?! Those are $40 new, and $20 on Craigslist!!" The seller was surprised that she had just given it away (as she put it), but I didn't offer to pay more. (If she had asked for more, I would have negotiated) but as it stood, I gave her my $2 and got outta there:) Look how happy Levi is to be the proud owner of a bumbo!

6/9 - It's always quite obvious when Ashlyn is up to no good. I opened her door and she quickly put her hand behind her back, which was holding a pencil. She informed me that this meant, "No Boys" allowed on her bed. Not a bad message:) It gave me quite a good laugh.

6/14 - Today! Levi kinda had a rough day today - lots of fussin' and cryin'. I'll chalk it up to teething or general growing pains (it must hurt sometimes, right?). He finally settled down this evening and looked so cute sitting in this big chair all by himself that I had to get the camera! He discovered his feet this week - I just love that. He also rolls from his front to his back and is really close going back to front. He can turn in circles really well - it's always so funny when he is facing the opposite way from where I laid him in his crib. He's also really good at getting his legs stuck in the crib slats, so I've been trying to barricade him on the other side.

And the super-great news is that he finally drank from a bottle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We have not had any luck with that at all until yesterday when I was working in the yard and asked Michael to give it a try. He did it, so today when he was fussy, I tried again and he drank 4 oz!!! I hope he has finally figured it out!!

He had his 4 month appt last week (or maybe 2 weeks ago?) and he is my tallest baby so far. 50th for weight and 75th for height:) When I find my doctor paper again, I'll put the numbers on here for safe keeping.

Sweet Little Levi

2009-05-03T22:20:00.004-06:00

Just a quick picture I snapped on our way out the door to church today. He is such a cute baby - at least that's what everyone tells me! (Forever ago, Sister Roy said shame on me for not putting more pics of him on here - I'll try to do better!)
Here's a cute story: Remember how he had a haircut when he was 3 weeks old? Well, the bald spot on the back of his head is now complete, but about 2 weeks ago when Ashlyn first noticed it, she said, "Oh no! Tiffani's haircut is making his hair fall out!"

Random Pics from April

2009-05-02T21:56:00.002-06:00

I was feeling so domestic that I was able to convince Michael to put our breadmaker to use - Lincoln could hardly believe it either!
This pic is just to remind me that Lincoln is definitely our climber.

Ashlyn's snowman

Inspired by Elder Scott's Conference talk, Michael attended the Denver temple and then took this beautiful picture.

This pose lasted for just over a minute, but I loved the way Lincoln was wrapped around her as they were cuddling/wrestling as they watched TV.

Easter

2009-04-11T21:30:00.001-06:00

Yep, this is the only blog-able picture I have from Easter (I used to be SO sentimental!), and it's mostly for Nana. After dying eggs, I think the evidence clearly shows that we have another right-handed family member. Sorry, you're still the only lefty.

Ashlyn's 4th Birthday!

2009-04-08T20:21:00.006-06:00

We had Ashlyn's party a few days before her actual birthday (4/12) because Maely & Kadeson were leaving the state and we just couldn't have a party with out them! This is the best pic out of about 12 that we took before the guests arrived:)
Cathy Leavitt made this adorable princess cake for Ashlyn (I paid her with hair bows for her granddaughters) and Ashlyn loved it!

We had a tea party which always involves dressing up - I love this pic of Ashlyn helping Maely.

I asked Amber to teach the kids about manners - she's so good at stuff like that. I'm afraid that day may have been the first time Ashlyn heard me say the word manners. Don't get me wrong, Ashlyn & Lincoln both say "please" and "thank you", but I just had never talked to them about manners, so I had to have Amber show me how:)

Ashlyn's favorite part was getting to actually put sugary liquid into her tea pot. That was another reason for doing the tea party. She had gotten to have a tea party at the Grover's and the Neilson's house, but I had never had one with her (I know - such a sad story!). Lincoln, Elli, Kade, Megan, Maely, Ashlyn, Sam, and Elizabeth. Thanks for coming everyone! And thanks Julie & Amber for all of your help!
We love our sweet Ashlyn girl. She is such a joy!

She is not very shy anymore. I already talked about how awesome she did giving her first talk in primary and now she thinks she can do anything. She begged today to share her testimony again in Sacrament meeting (I didn't get to see because I was in the mother's lounge:(
She is a little organizer - very opposite of Lincoln. She like to put things in little stacks and piles.
Sometimes we call her a little bag lady because she'll load up her stroller with the strangest assortment of things and keep it that way for as long as she can keep Lincoln from dumping it:)
She loves to "read" her scriptures. We have a pocket size Book of Mormon that she has claimed as her own and she will open it up and tell us stories she knows about Jesus.
People are always telling me what a sweet personality she has.
She loves TV (not my favorite thing, but it sure can come in handy!)
She likes to be in charge (in my "rememberance book" when I was 5, my mom called it bossy!)
She LOVES her pink blankie and her thumb.
She loves to cuddle.
She's smart in many ways, but also at getting what she wants. Recently I told her that she could watch TV while Lincoln was taking his nap. Awhile later I came downstairs and she was watching TV. She informed me that she had read Lincoln 5 stories, and put him down for his nap. He was sound asleep in his bed!
She loves to read, jump on the trampoline, play on the computer, play games, draw, color, paint, cook, read, go on walks, ride her bikes, roller skate and play with her friends.

We love you Ashlyn!

JBF Consignment Sale

2009-04-06T20:13:00.000-06:00

I have sold bows at various craft shows for just over a year now and it was the 3rd time that I sold at the Just Between Friends consignment sale. The sale lasts 3 days and I had more bows made than ever before - there were over 500 bows for sale that I made with my very own hands:) The work was well worth it because in the end I had about $600 in sales!! It is such a fun and rewarding creative outlet for me.

Levi's Blessing Day

2009-03-30T00:59:00.006-06:00

Today was wonderful. It was the first time that we all went to church together since Levi was born. It was our first sacrament meeting with 3 kids! It was all great, except for when Lincoln started throwing a two-year-old tantrum during Michael's testimony:) But I figured out later that it was because he wanted to go up there like Ashlyn had. Ashlyn went up with Michael and shared her first testimony - sort of. She bore her testimony about Levi and that he came to earth in her mom's belly, but she did it all by herself! After giving her talk in primary all by herself last week she's fearless on the microphone! She's practiced her testimony a number of times at home so I thought it might be a little more gospel centered, but Levi was the only thing on her mind. It was precious though. Two-month old Levi wearing the same outfit that Lincoln was blessed in.

So, what's the verdict - do they even look like brothers? Yeah, we don't think so either. All tuckered out

Just like daddy!

Lincoln's 2nd Birthday

2009-03-22T01:42:00.004-06:00

$1 will get you most of a happy birthday banner at the dollar store. Lincoln has blown fire out plenty of times, but got a little gun shy after we all sang to him. I love how Maely is showing him how to blow in this picture. The story goes like this: We were gonna go to Chuck E. Cheese on Saturday for Lincoln's birthday with the Grovers, but we were a little concerned about it being crowded. When I stopped by Chuck E. Cheese on Friday afternoon to check it out, it wasn't crowded at all. After a phone call to Michael and Amber, we decided to go for it right then instead. The result? A store bought cake with pink decoration frosting. At least I had the lady write Happy Birthday in blue, right? As was my original plan to be thrifty, we ate pizza, cake, and ice cream at home, and then went just to play at Chuck E. Cheese (their pizza isn't that good anyway, right?)
The birthday boyThis is my favorite kiddie ride there - looks like Ashlyn agrees!

I think one family of friends was plenty for Lincoln - there's 6 kids! (Levi not pictured here) This was as close as we could get Ashlyn to Chuck E. Huge mechanical mice can be pretty intimidating!

Lincoln is a fun 2 year old, but he is also much more of a 2 year old than Ashlyn ever was, if you catch my drift. He can be quite the fireball but we love him to pieces.

He talks a lot more than Ashlyn did at this age, and I'm sure it's because she has taught him so much. Here are some of my favorites. I tend to exaggerate, and sometimes say, "I almost died" when I stumble, etc. One day (months ago now) Lincoln was jumping on my bed and purposely landed on his bottom and said, "died!" He still does that now.

He is so cute when he says, "Ewwww, gross!"

He always wants you to see what he's doing. He'll often yell "Mom!" or "Daddy!" before he performs his stunts.

He is a climber, climber, climber. He is always on the table, the back of the couch, the stair railings, and us.

He eats sand. This drives me nuts! We have a huge sandbox, and I loved it for Ashlyn. Now I want to get rid of it. The second Lincoln gets outside it's in his hair, in his mouth, and in his diaper. One day I was out there with them while they were eating lunch. He had a sandwich in one hand, and with the other tried to shovel a spoonful of sand in his mouth. Weird kid! (The doc says he's just being a boy!)

He is Levi's favorite sibling. Mostly because Lincoln isn't as interested in him as Ashlyn is. Lincoln will just come give him a hug and kiss and then go on about his business.

He says good prayers (with help)! He folds his arms really cute too - he folds them and then puts them up by his eyes to help close his eyes, but it also allows him to sneak food into his mouth at the dinner table during the blessing.

He is a "dumper". As my friend taught me, some kids are "pickers" and some are "dumpers". Lincoln doesn't feel like he has played with toys in a basket until they have been dumped out and kicked around all over the room. And then he goes to the next thing that needs dumping.

I guess that would make him a mover too. Nothing belongs where mom or dad puts it. Whatever and wherever it is, he thinks it needs to be carried, thrown or kicked to anywhere else in the house. One time Michelle babysat him and said that he was into everything more than she had seen any other kid. She has 6 kids, so that's gotta say something!

He loves his family and we love him!

Happy Birthday Buddy!

Life's Still Great!

2009-03-18T21:55:00.007-06:00

Woo Hoo!! Here I am updating my blog!!

Life is fantastic. This whole postpartum thing has been awesome this time around. My mom was here for the first week and that was great. Michael had the second week off and so he completely took care of Ashlyn and Lincoln and even Levi when it wasn't chow time. The third week through the 5th & 6th weeks I was still super spoiled, lucky, and blessed because Michael gets home from work at 9:30 a.m. That means that the kids would wake me up (sort of - I was kind of in a daze) around 6:30 a.m., I would make them hang out in bed with me for as long as I could keep them there while I fed Levi, then I would finally come downstairs with them, throw them a cereal bar and a sippy cup of milk and park them in front of PBS kids on TV, and I would try to not drift in to too deep of sleep on the couch that they got into too much trouble until Michael got home at 9:30. Then I would feed Levi in bed, call for Michael to take him when he was done eating, and then I would sleep for a good 2 or 3 hours. I know - isn't it so unfair that I got off sooo easy? I honestly feel kind of like a spoiled brat, but I am so grateful at the same time! Sometime during week 5 I started not needing my morning naps as regularly and I feel pretty much full of energy now and I love it! I thought that I was being so lazy at the end of my pregnancy, but now that my energy is back I am realizing that I was just out of juice at the end there.

I've been wanting to get this next picture up here forever . . .

Before Levi: Ashlyn and Lincoln shared a room. Ashlyn was in a twin bed and Lincoln was in the crib. No major problems or drama.

When Levi came: We moved the twin bed to the office so that my mom would have a place to sleep. We brought Ashlyn's toddler bed up from storage for her to sleep on. Then my mom left.

A little after Levi came: When my mom left we let Ashlyn sleep on her bed which was still in the office. Amazingly, both kids seemed to sleep a little longer when separated like this, so we just let Ashlyn sleep in the office for a couple of weeks. During this time, Lincoln started crawling out of his crib on a regular basis. It had happened occasionally in the past, but there was no turning back this time. After a particularly challenging nap session for Lincoln one day, I went in his room, took his mattress and bedding out of the crib and traded it with the toddler mattress (just so that he could see it was his bed). From that day on he slept in the toddler bed without any problems. Finally on February 21st it was time to move Ashlyn back into her room because I wanted to move Levi to the office. That first night with Ashlyn and Lincoln trying to sleep in the same room without Lincoln being confined in his crib was a looooong one. They were having the time of their lives in there!! It didn't help that we also rearranged the room that day because that just added to their excitement. We love Super Nanny, so we repeatedly went in the room, and gently walked them back to their beds without engaging in conversation and a couple of hours later it was finally quiet. When we checked on them on our way to bed, this is what we found:

I just thought it was the cutest thing that they both took all of their bedding and met in the middle between their two beds. It wouldn't have surprised me to find Lincoln in Ashlyn's bed because that's where he was most of the times we went in there, but I just loved this.

For the record, it's pretty much been a circus ever since this night. Ashlyn actually asks us to keep Lincoln out so that she can go to sleep without him bugging her. One of these months we'll finally finish our basement, move the office down there and then Ashlyn can have her own room.

And now for the cute Levi guy. . .

Don't you love cute baby toes? I wish I was a real photograper, but this will do for now.

Here are my 3 boys (that's a lot of boys!)

When Levi was 3 weeks old, Ashlyn and Levi got their hair cut! Levi's was just a little wild and needed a trim - if I remember I'll get the pic from Michael's phone later, but here's Ashlyn with her new 'do! I held onto her length for as long as I could, but it was just so thin and really needed cut and it's so much better/healthier now.

Lincoln has been doing this goofy face for a long time, and I finally took a pic. He's a ham!

Till next time . . .

2009-01-31T15:04:00.001-07:00

Earlier this week Ashlyn was talking to my mom . . .

A: Do you know why Levi was born on Monday?
M: Why?
A: Because that was his birthday!

Levi Andrew Kuhns 1-26-2009

2009-01-28T20:59:00.010-07:00

So, here's the long version . . .

I admit, I was getting a little impatient. Ashlyn was born at 35 weeks, Lincoln was born at 38 weeks, and here I was 39 weeks pregnant on Monday. I had never been pregnant for so long:) Really though, I had nothing to complain about. I had mild aches and inconveniences, but nothing that was complaint worthy. I could even still sleep comfortably! Still, I was just bored of being pregnant.

I had my first contraction Monday morning at 8:00 a.m. I spent the morning packing (I really procrastinated this time), making arrangments for the kids, and cleaning up. Michael - as always - was such a huge help for which I am so grateful. When we were finally ready to leave, we snapped a quick picture - I had finally dropped somewhat!

We took the kids to Ambers (Thank you, Thank you, THANK YOU), and headed to the docs office to get checked. I was impressed at how quickly they got me into an exam room considering that I didn't have an appointment, but then I realized that they probably don't want contracting women freaking out the patients in the waiting room:) When the doc checked me, I was a very happy 5/6 and he said we could go to the hospital! I remembered I was hungry and the doc was gone, but his assistant assured me that I could eat whatever I wanted. I don't really agree with her because some foods probably are not so good for you at that point, but I quickly was chowing down on 3" of a subway sandwich. When we got to the hospital I still had the subway bag in my hand and my nurse said, "Did you really just eat that?" I think she was worried about having to clean up puke later, but there was no such incident.

The first thing on my agenda was to get into the beautiful whirpool tubs they have at this new hospital. However, they had to make sure the baby was fine first. After an hour and a half, my wish was finally granted . . .

and I have to say that it was great! The contractions were easier to handle for sure. I also had remembered something that a friend had told me, and instead of thinking, "This hurts, this hurts, this hurts (etc) during every contraction, I talked to Heavenly Father and it made it so much more bearable. Besides the tub and praying, the other key thing was Michael. Just having him there to hug, squeeze, and hold me made it a lot easier too. When I got out of the tub, I was finally ready for the epidural (Michael had been wanting me to get it long before because he didn't like seeing me in pain). They checked me right after the epidural and I was an 8. By this time though, Levi had moved up. Dr. Baer broke my water, and an hour later Levi hadn't changed position yet, so the doc had me start pushing to see if he would come down. It worked, and 11 minutes later Levi was born at 6:49 p.m. weighing 7 lbs. 13 oz, was 20 3/4" long, and had a head full of black hair!

When the doc had broken my water around 5:00, they could tell that there was some light meconium and the nurse explained that he might have some trouble breathing because of it. When they put him on my stomach he looked a little purplish (the cord had been wrapped twice around his neck), and with what the nurse had said I was nervous because he still wasn't crying. They took him a minute later and finally got some cries out of him, but not very many. He was perfectly healthy though. 2 hours later when he got his first bath he cried a little at the end when he was getting rinsed off. The next day he cried a tiny bit when I changed his diaper. The point of all of this is that Levi has cried a total of 5 times since his birth, and the longest cry was less than a minute! This kid is totally mellow so far - I hope I'm not jinxing myself:)

On Tuesday afternoon, Michael picked the kids up from my visiting teacher's house (Thanks Michelle!!) and brought them to the hospital. Michelle had helped them make some really cute signs for Levi and I, and each of them had a necklace with their picture holding a sign that said, "I'm a big sister/brother" It was so cute and thoughtful!! The kids were absolutely adorable meeting Levi for the first time, and have continued to be just as sweet with him. Lincoln loves to give him hugs, and the only problem is that he puts all of his weight into it. Ashlyn loves to hold Levi and is actually pretty good at it (with me right there, of course).

Lincoln sharing the love with me:)

Lincoln is so much fun these days. He's always been fun, but he just keeps getting cuter and bringing us even more joy as he learns new things. He copies everything that each of us say and has so much more of a vocabulary than Ashlyn did at this age.

I've been a little nervous about what it would be like bringing number 3 home, but it just feels absolutely wonderful. I like the ease of caring for a newborn when I've already done it twice before. I know that even with Ashlyn it felt normal and not like an adjustment at all, but it still seems that much easier this time. Don't get me wrong - I'm super tired and haven't slept well at all, but all of the moments with Levi make it all worth it. What a wonderful plan Heavenly Father had to let us have these experiences with these sweet little babes.

I'm so grateful that everything went so well. I am so grateful for such a skilled, attentive, and caring doctor. I am grateful for a loving Heavenly Father that helped me find such a good husband. I am so grateful for my mom being here!! She's watching the kids (including Levi) when I need to rest. She's keeping us fed and our cookie supply stocked. I am grateful for loving friends in my ward who have been such a great help and support. Life is good.

I am Spoiled

2008-11-17T11:46:00.002-07:00

On Saturday I woke up really needing a break. I got the idea in my head that nothing would be better than to go out with Amber for a few hours. The last time we got to do this was in July so I thought it was about time. However, I found out that she couldn't just leave her kids with her husband because her husband was going to a football game with their son. That's when my sweet Michael - completely on his own - offered to have Amber leave Maely with him and the kids so that we could still go out. It was such a thoughtful, selfless thing to do. Amber and I had another rejuvenating day together and I felt ready to face it all again:) On the way home (around 5 pm) I told Amber that I definitely owed Michael a nice dinner that night. But when we walked through the door to a clean home (that always happens when he's home), the aroma told me that he had already made a nice dinner for me. What a loving husband I have - I am SO grateful for him!

2008-11-04T08:42:00.003-07:00

These pics will have to do until I can get a couple more from Nana - my mom was here the whole week of Halloween and it was so nice to have her!

These were taken at the Keller Elementary Carnival a week before Halloween. Ashlyn loved every bit of it! It's so fun to have each holiday understood just a little more by your kids than the year before. They are both getting so big - it's hard to believe. I guess I'm getting bigger too - just look at that belly - it looks much bigger from the side which you notice I didn't show you:)

Helping Ashlyn with the cake walk - what a rip off! It cost 2 tickets to play and you only get one shot! We didn't win.

The sort of First Greg Hancock Family Reunion

2008-10-01T16:02:00.008-06:00

We had a wonderful trip to Flagstaff last week. We left on Michael's birthday and gathered with my whole family. We've lived away from Flagstaff for 2 years now, and it really is kinda weird that only my parents and Mark currently live in Flagstaff. Anyway, Saturday we gathered at my parent's house, went shooting in the afternoon, had our own "Chili in the Aspen's" (a favorite annual ward activity for us growing up) at Lockett Meadow, and then the September birthday celebration at Nana & Papa's.

This picture is the real deal. That's John & Sarah's 15 month old, Alaina soaring high from her daddy's arms. Nice pic Michael!

My dad's birthday is the 18th, Michael's is the 19th, John's is the 21st, and Brandon's is the 28th.For some reason, Ashlyn got it in her head a few months ago that Michael wanted a "pumpkin cake" for his birthday (we have no idea where that came from - it was still summertime when she came up with it!). Nana was kind enough to buy pumpkins for the cake Aunt Sarah made.

Story time with Papa.

Family pictures Sunday morning, courtesy of Brandon's camera and Melissa's boyfriends finger to push the button:) (Don't you just love Ashlyn's enthusiasm for this charade?)

That's the end of the pics for now, but we had quite a few other enjoyable times. Kristi hosted a little open house for Bugaboo Girl (thanks Kristi!!!) that went quite well, and Nana watched the kids overnight so Michael and I could go down to the Mesa temple (thanks for the place to sleep Brandon). It was so nice to not worry about hurrying back to the kids like you do when it's a friend watching them. We also got to visit Grandma & Grandpa Benich in Cornville.

We got to spend some nice time with the Kuhns' too. Siana surprised Michael with a birthday cheesecake (his favorite) and Jelly Belly's (another favorite treat). Michael's 2 brother's Scott & Ryan both live in Flagstaff so we got to hang out with them too. We missed Kristen though! She hasn't lived there for awhile, but she was always there everytime we were there in the past so it was weird having her so far away in Oregon! And of course we missed Shannah's family too - can't wait to see them this coming summer in Colorado.

Anyway, there's my second post for September, and there were even pictures!

He's a Boy!

2008-09-07T21:30:00.002-06:00

Yep, we had the ultra sound. Everything looks great too. What a blessing! Now we have to start figuring out a name. Boy names are hard.

2008-09-07T20:41:00.003-06:00

I am finally in a journaling mood, and every one is settled nicely into bed so I am finally going for it. It's been awhile since I've written down any happenings, so this entry will probably be all over the place.

It was such a nice Sabbath day today. Fast Sundays have always been among my favorites. Even as a youth - fasting and all - I loved testimony meeting and thought it was called fast Sunday because Sacrament meeting went so much faster because of getting to hear everyone's testimonies. Today was no exception. It was my turn to stay in the meeting while Michael took Lincoln out (he just gets too noisy and milk & crackers only occupy his mouth for so long), and Ashlyn was pretty good today so I just enjoyed it. Then, I had my first opportunity to teach Relief Society. The YW was reorganized last month so we all got released and I am now the 2nd counselor in RS. I was so confused at first - I've never really been in RS (I don't really count my college wards because that's kinda like YW for college girls, ya know?) However, I am really enjoying being in RS and the lessons taught each Sunday. I loved YW too, but I seriously have done those same lessons over and over - they are the same manuals from when I was in high school, and I have taught them each at least twice. I like teaching on Fast Sunday - after announcments/opening exercises, and in order to leave time for time for testimonies, I only had 15 minutes. That works for me!

This afternoon was nice too. As happens most Sundays, we got home, I put Lincoln down for his nap, I put myself down for my nap, and when I woke up 2 hours later, dinner was ready and waiting. Michael has made Sunday dinner more often than not for most of the time we've lived in Colorado (I seriously can't remember if that happened in Flagstaff or not - although there were plenty of times he cooked there too regardless of if it was Sunday or not). I love Sundays! After dinner we just had a great time with the kids. Mostly I enjoyed watching Michael be able to give them so much attention. He loves to do it, but it's not always possible with work. He's been having some nice success with his online stores, but it sure keeps him busy!

In two more Sundays, Lincoln will be legal nursery age!!! Hooray! Michael and I have traded off for the Sunday School hour for months now. He is just too noisy and restless after Sacrament meeting, so one of us misses every week. I have taken him in the nursery a few different times, but that has given me a glimpse of what's to come in two weeks. The few times I have left him in nursery to do something (like run Ashlyn to the potty) he completely freaks out when he realizes I am gone. Ashlyn had such an easy transition to nursery that I was taken by surprise. I had seen plenty of kids in the ward go through a really rough time with making the adjustment, and Ashlyn had me fooled into thinking it would always be a breeze. It will be interesting, but I am hoping it doesn't take too long for him to be comfortable.

In just under 2 weeks we will be taking our first vacation of the year! We are going home to Flagstaff. It doesn't really seem like it's been that long since we were last there, but we are all excited to visit. I think Ashlyn is the most excited though - she misses her Nana!

Lincoln is trying to talk more and more. He has a few words down pretty well - Mama, Dadda, food, ball, pane (plane), and I know there are others. The airport is not too far from here and so we have planes flying over hourly. Lincoln notices every single one when he is outside. On Saturday one flew over much closer to our house and lower so it looked huge. It was so cute because as usual he was pointing at it and said plane, but then over and over he said, "WOW, WOW, WOW, WOW, WOW!" He was so excited by it and I loved it:) Ashlyn is such a good big sister (most of the time) and they play together pretty well. Lincoln has also really started loving books over the past few months and that has been a lot of fun as well.

I guess that's it for now! Hopefully I'll get some pics up here before too much longer.

Oh, I wanted to mention too that I read all of your blogs regularly on my google reader - I am a naughty non-commenter even though there of plenty of times I probably should. What a bad blog friend!

Happy 4th!

2008-07-03T07:07:00.004-06:00

Last night the YW went to sing patriotic songs at an assisted-living center. Amber thought that everyone would enjoy a number from our cute kids, so she taught Ashlyn the little routine yesterday. I was so impressed that she didn't get stage fright! On the drive there all she could talk about was her "concert", and she was shy at first, but was able to adjust quickly. The video shows Kade, Ashlyn, and Maely - and don't forget Amber in the foreground leading the kids - she's cute too!

Potty Help

2008-06-29T22:21:00.002-06:00

On Wednesday morning Michael was helping Ashlyn say the family prayer. Probably due to her bum injury, she has been having accidents again, so Michael told her to say, "Please help me to go potty on the toilet." Ashlyn obediently said, "Please help Daddy to go potty on the toilet." We had such great laughs after that one!!

I Need Your Help!

2008-06-23T13:20:00.002-06:00

What are your favorite, kindest pregnancy foods? Yep, I'm 8 weeks and hungry, nauseous, and yucky feeling. Some of you already know this - after all, my mom did announce it in her Relief Society's "good news moment" 3 weeks ago:) I didn't mind at all, but just thought it was funny. We've seen the baby on ultra-sound so so-far, so-good! My doctor is just awsome - Dr. Baer for those in the Springs. Even Michael really likes him. I'm excited because his current gift to his patients is a FREE 3-D ultra-sound around 23 weeks or so (in addition to the normal 20-week ultra-sound).

I spent the last week at Girl's Camp. I was so nervous about the pukey factor because there was no running water at our campground and I really was not wanting to hug on a porta potty. Lucky for me I didn't throw up until the drive home - with all 3 members of our Stake Presidency!! They were all very kind & understanding, but it was still a bit embarrassing!

The Scoop

2008-06-23T12:55:00.004-06:00

OK. There is currently a 2 foot drop from our back door to the ground (Michael ripped out our old deck). The drop was never a problem because the kids wait for help to get up or down. One day though Ashlyn was standing at the back door (in the house) and Michael opened the door to the garage. A huge gust of wind came through the house which made the back door swing shut, pushing Ashlyn straight out the door. There was a little piece of metal still attached to the house from the old deck and it sliced right through her little cheek. Michael cleaned it up a bit, but knew she would need stitches and took her to the ER (I stayed here with Lincoln) and they gave her 10 stitches. They did some x-rays to make sure nothing had gotten inside of her (there wasn't anything) and let her watch cartoons, gave her a little teddy bear, 2 stickers, and a popsicle! She had a great time . . . except for when they were numbing her up. They had 4 people plus dad holding her for that part.

After they numbed the cut on her left cheek.

Waiting & watching cartoons!

2008-06-10T22:33:00.002-06:00

There are a few new posts today . . . I am goofy and have to change the posting date to when the event actually happened . . . so scroll down to see what we've been up to!

Ashlyn's Poor Little Bum

2008-06-10T21:28:00.002-06:00

Ashlyn had her most serious accident to date today. Luckily, it wasn't too serious at all, but she did end up with 10 stitches in her left cheek.

Denver Childrens Museum

2008-06-03T20:17:00.003-06:00

These pictures really don't do justice for how much fun we had! The museum has free admission on the first Tuesday of every month and we took advantage this time. We met the Roberts' there and the kids had a good time. For me I think the funnest part was just getting to see Ashlyn enjoy this more than she ever would have before. I think her favorite part was the little kitchen/store. Lincoln really loved the shopping carts, but was a very reckless driver as I'm sure all 14-month-olds are! I wish we lived closer so that we could go every month on free day, but it's a good 150 mile drive round-trip. We'll definitely go again though because it was so much fun!

2008-06-02T09:21:00.002-06:00

Ashlyn, Lincoln and I were just changing the sheets on their beds. At the end, I asked Ashlyn to take the sheets to the hamper. We've been struggling with "listening" lately, but this time she surprised me by promptly picking them up while saying "Yes-sir-ee Captain!" Obviously she got it from TV, but it cracked me up!

Memorial Day Treat

2008-05-26T20:37:00.002-06:00

On Sunday Michael told me that he had a surprise for us the next morning. He told me we had to be ready by 9:30 the next morning. We didn't do too badly, and he was careful to not stress me out by trying to rush me:) We started driving up to Woodland Park and I told him how nice it felt to be going to do something fun, and having no idea what it was and therefore no stress at all because I didn't do an ounce of planning! We finally pulled up in front of the "Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center" and after a double-take I realized that Dan & Amber were walking up to the entrance! A moment later it all came together that Dan & Michael had PLANNED this! I was impressed enough that Michael was taking us to do something, but that him & Dan coordinated was AWESOME! We had a great day, lots of fun, a yummy picnic, and ended the adventure by visiting Territory Days (where on Saturday I sold hair bows). To end the day perfectly we attended the Daniels family 3rd annual BBQ (friends from our ward). It was a perfect day. Thanks Michael & Dan!

You can also check here for more fun pics on Ambers blog.

Territory Days

2008-05-24T21:18:00.000-06:00

Due to some amazing hook-ups, I got the awesome opportunity to sell my hair bows on Saturday at Territory Days. Over the 3 day weekend there are over 100,000 people who come. The 10x10 vendor spots cost a minimum of $350, and I got my little spot for FREE. What a blessing! Thanks to my Stampin-Up friends who made it possible.

Finally Taking My Turn

2008-05-18T14:44:00.012-06:00

I was tagged forever ago, and finally have a minute! Today was Stake Conference so we were done at 11:00! Yeah for a full free day! This first tag was from Alli.

1. Answer the questions about the list of friends/family that you have on your blog.
2. If you don't have the number of names that the question asks, answer the question about the next name that you have not had a question for on your list.
3. Tag your friends and family.

When did you meet the first person on your list?

Ali & Scott are both friends from high school. Ali and I ran track together, group dated a little, etc. and Scott was a friend of a friend and went to the high school across town.

What do you like about the third person on your list?

Alyssa is funny! We met at Ricks college and then spent 5 weeks camping together, and she gave me my first - and only - black eye! We went on to be roommates through our BYU time too. Jared is Lys's dynamic husband - such a good one!

What do you like best about the 5th and 6th people on your list?

Andrea was my missionary companion in Florida!!! She was seriously instrumental in preparing me to be a better wife because that's what happens when you're together 24-7! Remember the talk across the lake from our apartment? And her husband Ben was one of the Elders in our ward when Andrea and I served together - yep they got married!

Anya is my beautiful cousin! I have always looked up to her so much and she continues to be such a great example to me. We have never lived close to each other, but I love her dearly! Kyle is pretty awesome too and although I've only been around him a few times I know he is a great guy!

How long have you known the 8th person on your list?

Becky J and I met at BYU and how blessed I am for spending as much time with her as I did. I learned so much from Beck and saw first hand how Heavenly Father orchestrates so many of sometimes mistaken "coincidences" in our lives. Remember your car wreck that Friday night?

What impresses you about the 11th and 22nd person on your list?

Crystal is a domestic goddess!!!! Atleast when I was privileged to be her roommate she was! She would treat us to the most amazing meals - enchiladas, bear claws, and orange chicken (by the way - I would love the recipe for this! I've tried others, but it's never as good as yours!). That was must a mere sampling of all she can do - this woman does it all!

Robyn is amazing too! All you have to do is look at her blog to see all that she is doing right now! Just the fact that they are living in a house undergoing a complete overhaul is enough to impress anyone.

What memory do you have with the 23rd person on your list?

Sara and I were in the same book club in Flagstaff - such a great book club! But just go here to see another one of Sara's pasttimes and amazing talents!

Say something nice about the 27th person on your list.

Where to start? Bishop Roy was the most energetic Bishop I have ever seen in my whole life! We were blessed to have him as our Bishop for our first 6 months in Colorado Springs. Vicki is just a well of information and goodness. Krista is the most outgoing, fun-loving, early-rising, hyper girl I know. Summer has the most beautifully thick hair I've ever seen, and is as equally wonderful, faithful, and loving as the rest of those Roys!

I tag everyone on my list! (Except Alli of course)

And from Nikki & Kristi . . .

A-Z Tag

A- ATTACHED OR SINGLE: Attached
B- BEST FRIEND: Michael, Kristi, Amber
C-CAKE OR PIE: Pie, but not the fruit kind. I like chocolate, key lime, lemon meringue.
D- DAY OF CHOICE: Sunday!! I've never seen anyone else answer Sunday, but I love being home as a family without work, school, errands, or anything else to interrupt! And a huge plus - every Sunday we come home from church, I take a nap, and Michael makes dinner!!!! I love it!
E- ESSENTIAL ITEM: Chapstick & lotion - I am constantly applying both throughout the day.
F- FAVORITE COLOR: It used to be blue. I'm not really sure anymore!

G- GOALS: Spend more quality time with Ashlyn & Lincoln - actually engaging with them in their world!
H- HOMETOWN: Flagstaff, AZ
I- INDULGENCES: Keeping the freezer stocked with ice-cream, and lately $5 subs at Subway! (Don't worry, I do split them with Michael!)
J- JANUARY OR JULY: July. It's hot, but festive with the 4th, barbeques, fireworks every weekend at the SkySox stadium that we can see from our back yard and my birthday!
K- KIDS: Ashlyn (3) and Lincoln (1).
L- LIFE IS INCOMPLETE WITHOUT: The gospel of Jesus Christ and my forever family!
M- MARRIAGE DATE: June 20, 03
N- NUMBER OF SIBLINGS: 3 brothers, 1 sister
O- ORANGES OR APPLES: Green apples - sometimes with salt sprinkled on
P- PLACE TO VISIT: Europe - to see even 1/10th of what Alyssa did overseas would be amazing!
Q- QUOTES: I'll have to get back to you on this one! R- REASON TO SMILE: Ashlyn's cute painted toenails - we had a fun time together this afternoon.
S- SEASON: In theory, spring is my favorite. In reality it can be so frustrating because you'll have a beautiful day and the next day it's snowing and colder than it was all winter! And that happens zillions of times and then suddenly it's just stinky hot and summer has arrived.
T- TAG SOME FRIENDS: Amber, April, Anya, April, Rachel & Melissa
U- UNKNOWN FACT ABOUT ME: I generally have to wear socks to bed. I can handle it occasionally now, but before I would not get a good nights rest without socks - I hated the feeling of my feet touching the sheets!
V- VERY FAVORITE STORE: Do garage sales count? They are awesome up here in Colorado Springs!! You don't have to buy hardly anything at full price if you have a little time to shop around. I have made some amazing finds! For instance - I needed a desk lamp for when I work in the evenings. I was almost ready to go spend $20 at Target, and then I found a perfect one for $2 at a garage sale! W- WORST HABIT: Procrastinating and negative thinking.
X- X-RAY OR ULTRASOUND: Ultrasound...they are just fun to see! Y- YOUR FAVORITE FOOD: Mexican and ICE CREAM!!
Z- ZOOS YOU'VE BEEN TO: Most recently the Cheyenne mountain zoo here, previously the Phoenix, SanDiego and Hogle Zoos.

Reflections of Christ

2008-04-24T00:12:00.004-06:00

You have to check this out. The Mesa Temple Pageant was preparing for it's 70th year and wanted some pictures of the cast members in costume. The project evolved into an amazing display that is now at the Mesa Visitors Center. This link will take you to a video that will give you a taste of what's at the visitors center - wish I could go! The behind the scenes stories are really neat too - you should check them out.

Reflections of Christ

And for those BYU 92nd Warders (I think that's what ward we were in!), the beautiful voice singing one of my favorite hymns is Freddie Ashby. So neat that he's getting to use his talents to bless many lives.

Ashlyn is 3!

2008-04-12T22:01:00.004-06:00

Maely, Ashlyn, and Kade

Daddy teaching her how to use her "Kid Tough" camera (super-duper post Christmas clearance sale!)

Adorned in her new dress-ups (thanks Maely & Kade!) showing off her butterfly cake - the colors weren't exactly what I was going for, but it's a much better presentation than the first try at her first birthday!)

She got really shy at candle blowing time, so we were encouraging her.

This one's for you Kristi - finally a view of the new do!

My Bow Blog

2008-04-09T23:31:00.004-06:00

Wow. If any of you have done your own website, we need to talk. It is so time consuming and at times very frustrating! There is so much to learn and sometimes it just seems too daunting. So, on Saturday night I took an hour -yep, that's about all it took - and threw together a blog page to show some of my bows to those of you who can't just come over. Speaking of which, I had a very nice lady come by the other day and she bought 18 bows! It was just so exciting for me to see other people enjoy them:) If you want to check them out, just visit bugaboogirlbows.blogspot.com!

March Madness

2008-03-31T07:57:00.001-06:00

No, this has nothing to do with basketball, but it has been a busy, busy month for us! We've had some fun things going on with the highlights being my mom and dad visiting, as well as Lincoln's birthday . . . but here's what I have really been up to! (Stick with me for a minute - I always have to preface my stories!)

I can honestly say that most of the time since Ashlyn was born, I have taken it pretty easy and never had very much on my plate. Well, when it comes right down to it, blogging has changed things for me, although the story does start before that. About a year ago my sister (the one and only Melissa!) gave me a couple of hair bows for Ashlyn that she had bought from her (now) missionary's sister. I thought the bows were adorable and really wanted to know how to make them. In November, after finally joining the blogging world with my friends I found the "Feathered Nest" blog by Abby and for my first time ever found someone willing to show me how to make a hair bow! It's been a spending frenzy ever since then and I now have a decent stash of ribbon, bows, clippies, tricks to making them cuter every time, and a basic business plan!

It has been such a fun endeavor. I feel like Michael is 98% responsible for this adventure I've embarked on because he made me believe it was possible. Another side to this is that we have slowly, but surely been working on a website to sell the bows. Michael had a website for awhile for his concrete countertop business and so he was able to give me a lot of guidance on how to get started. It was so good to feel like I was learning and progressing again! Ever since my mission/college I have kind of felt out of the loop technology wise and it feels nice to (kind of) have a clue again.

A friend from my ward (Brenlyn) makes tutus and handbags and we have applied to be in a little craft bazaar in May. Hopefully we'll get in and can really get our feet wet. This whole thing just has me really excited. Hopefully I can strike a decent balance so my kids don't feel neglected in the midst of it all. I feel like this does help me be a better mom though (so far) because it gives me a definite energy/enthusiasm boost. Lots of you get that by doing fun outdoor things, but with only one car in our family the kids and I are stuck here a lot - I guess something had to happen sooner or later:) Wish me luck! And thanks to Kristi for being one of my first customers!

Easter Morn

2008-03-23T07:16:00.001-06:00

I thought that Ashlyn would be the one to really get the enjoyment out of Easter morning, but Lincoln thought that hunting for eggs was the coolest thing! It was so cute to see him collecting his eggs!

He was smiling every moment . . . until this one! This looks more vindictive than it really was - she was just trying to keep him in the picture:)

Thanks to Nana for the beautiful Easter outfits!!!!!!!!!

Lincoln's Birthday!

2008-03-21T18:23:00.007-06:00

Lincoln's birthday was so much fun. We were able to get Nana & Papa to come up for the week (thanks for the bathroom remodel Dad & Michael!), and we had some friends over with their 2 youngest who are Lincoln & Ashlyn's ages. He was so cute with his cake (which turned out much better than Ashlyn's first pink&purple throw-up looking cake) and he thoroughly enjoyed himself. Ashlyn was a little confused at how Lincoln got away with destroying the cake - I wonder if she'll try anything with her cake in a few weeks! The video is a little long - the action really starts about a minute into it.

Michael got Lincoln his favorite present - his own box of kleenex to use up in one sitting!

It was so fun to have Nana & Papa with us!

2008-03-17T17:04:00.000-06:00

Our (sometimes) semi-annual fridge cleaning in preparation for our visit from Nana & Papa. Ashlyn in the fridge was completely Michael's idea.

We had our first non-immeditate-family visitors in Colorado:) Chris & Kati and their 3 boys - Wesly, Travis, and Nathan stopped by on their way to Wyoming. It was so good to get to visit with them in our home!

This is a pic from geocaching that I thought was cute.

Ashlyn & I sat at the table together, I cut everything up and she put everything on the sandwich - I was seriously impressed with her skills:)

Temple Trip

2008-03-02T22:55:00.003-07:00

Ever since I went with the Young Women to the temple in the fall, Ashlyn has been telling us that she wants to go to the temple. On Friday, with some smooth kid handoffs, we were finally able to do take her. We only live about an hour from the temple, but as many of you know it gets tricky with kids involved! Our friends brought their 2 youngest over in the morning and they left for the temple in our car. About an hour later we drove their suburban to the temple with all 4 kids, took some pictures of Ashlyn, handed off the kids & keys to Michelle and Paul, and then Michael & I got to go to the temple. It was perfect! We are going to use this system as often as we can! Not only do mom & dad get quality temple time, but the kids get to visit the temple, and you don't have to find a sitter for half the day (I know that's not very long for some of you who live further from the temple)! Way to go Michelle - it was all her idea!

When Will I Learn?

2008-02-22T15:48:00.002-07:00

Michael and I were having a nice conversation downstairs when Lincoln woke up from his nap and was crying to let us know it. Ashlyn went to check out the situation and his cries quickly subsided. We were happy that he was happy. Then we started to here some mild complaints & whimpers from Lincoln so eventually Michael went to rescue Lincoln from his newly decorated port-a-crib.

The Victim

The Culprit

The Sandbox

2008-02-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

It was finally warm enough to go outside and so Lincoln got his first trip to our backyard sandbox. Hopefully he'll warm up to the idea with time.

New Beginnings

2008-02-20T22:05:00.001-07:00

For the last couple of weeks I was busy planning New Beginnings - our Personal Progress Pep Rally - with the other counselor in Young Womens. (Amber, our amazing YW President has been on leave with her beautiful new baby girl.) This picture doesn't show much at all, but the whole night was really fun. We started by introducing the coaches (leaders), the rookies (new beehives), and our MVP's (most value-able players - the 7 YW values). We also introduced our seasoned, accomplished players - the 5 medallion holders. That part was really fun because we played "Let's Get Ready to Rumble" as they ran in through a butcher paper poster while some audience members sprayed silly string on them (that part was Michael's idea!). We had some skits, a pep rally game that taught us about being steadfast & immovable (the church wide theme for the youth this year), and some great speakers. Everyone dressed in sports attire - even our Bishop came in his Broncos sweats:) The whole night just turned out really well - especially the tailgate food which included delicious buffalo chicken wings made by Michelle. I love the feeling after a night like that - especially when my dear husband was so helpful in executing the set-up and music. Thanks honey! One last note - we have some of the most amazing Young Women in the Ridgeview Ward and I love them!

How To Weigh Yourself

2008-02-19T15:06:00.000-07:00

Have you been doing it wrong all this time too?

Nighty Night

2008-02-15T17:55:00.002-07:00

While I was tucking Ashlyn in the other night

Me: Good night princess girl
Ashlyn: Good night princess mom

Some things just warm you all over!

Sweetheart Dinner

2008-02-10T21:50:00.000-07:00

This last Friday was our ward Elders Quorum Sweetheart Dinner. Somehow, Michael was put in charge of the whole shebang. On Friday at noon Michael and I took the kids to the church and spent a few hours putting the cultural hall together. The pictures don't really do it justice - not that it was super amazing or anything - but we thought it turned out nice and romantic like. However, I have to give credit where credit is due, and that goes to Tia. Our inspiration was from pictures on her blog of a YW activity because as hard as I tried I just couldn't come up with anything on my own, not to mention that we didn't really even have a budget to work with! Thanks Tia - our ward enjoyed your good taste!
For me the best part was getting to spend the day working side by side with Michael. I really enjoyed that time spent with him. And even though we did get our inspiration from Tia, Michael threw in quite a few nice touches of his own. Way to go babe!

Why 2 Year-Olds Shouldn't Babysit

2008-02-03T22:38:00.000-07:00

The other day I had to run upstairs to take a phone call. A few minutes later, Ashlyn came up to see what I was doing. I told her to not leave Lincoln alone, and to go back downstairs to be with him. I should have just let her stay, because this is how I found him a few minutes later.
Yes, he is completely soaked. So, what happened? This.

When I came downstairs, the sink had the stopper in, the water was on, and Lincoln was playing in the waterfall and the pond on the floor. So much for leaving her in charge of the baby!

Ms. Fix-It

2008-02-03T22:27:00.001-07:00

She loves to use her tools to fix things, and she loves lots of accessories (this pic only shows sunglasses and a purse, but she frequently sports a binky, a blankie, beanie babies, and all sorts of treasures in the purse or "pac-pac" (backpack)). I just love her!

Our Dear President Hinckley

2008-02-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

How blessed we have all been to know President Hinckley as our prophet for almost 13 years. When I thought of Ashlyn and Lincoln only knowing him as I know President Kimball and President Benson, it made me a little sad. But I too was so happy to think of him reuniting with his sweet Marjorie.

One of my favorite memories of him happened while I was a student at Ricks college and President Hinckley was there for the inauguration of (now) Elder Bednar as the President of Ricks. After the meeting concluded, President Hinckley exited the stand with Sister Hinckley in tow. There was a long aisle for them to walk down to exit the building, and they both were shaking hands of students along the way. He would start shaking hands with so many people and get quite ahead of Marjorie, and then he would go back to her side, but quickly get carried away with greeting everyone he could, and get ahead of her again. I watched as this scenario was repeated a couple of times. It was just so sweet to see him excited to meet everyone he could, but make sure he was taking care of his wife too.

In Young Women's today, Sister Roy bore her testimony of how every one of us (church wide) have thought of his reunion with Marjorie and that his passing has reminded us of why we do every single thing we do in the church. That is what it is all about - being with our sweethearts and families forever. I am so grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ!

We're Back

2008-01-13T21:55:00.000-07:00

The kids and I finally returned from Flagstaff on Friday. We got to go down to visit family and friends after Christmas and it was wonderful. It was especially fun to revisit seasons 1 and 2 of 24 with my family who was seeing it for the first time. The kids got to "play" with their cousin Alaina (she's 7 months old), and Ashlyn loved being surrounded by "friends" (anyone under the age of 12) for the majority of the time we were there.

While there, I was very inspired by friends who just ran or are preparing to run half and full marathons. No, I am not considering either at the moment, but I might be able to commit to a 10k to begin with. I just need to get moving somehow! I made the first step by asking a friend at church today to sign up for a race with me. So far, so good!

We hardly took pictures over the holidays, so here is the best result of our post-church photo shoot today. Enjoy!

Santa Baby

2007-12-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

Last night was our ward Christmas party. Over the summer I found a Santa suit for $1 at a garage sale & bought it for Lincoln with the Christmas party in mind. Everyone thought Lincoln was cute enough to begin with, but when the "special visitor" arrived at the party, he came right over to Lincoln and picked him up in the air. This is the best picture we got, but it was such a cute moment. Everyone commented on how sweet it was the whole night.

Rockin around the Christmas party

Ashlyn will talk to anyone . . . until they talk to her & then she's super shy.

Treasure Hunting

2007-11-19T15:18:00.000-07:00

I have been begging Michael to go on walks with me for 4 1/2 years, but it was his sister Shannah who finally talked him into it. She told him what her family has been doing for over a year. Using a GPS you look for treasures. We did our first one this weekend & we had a great time! If you want to check it out for yourself, go to geocaching.com.

Ashlyn looking for treasure.

Ashlyn & dad searching for the hidden treasure with the GPS coordinates.

The treasure we found! Inside was a wooden coin left by the last geocacher to visit the spot.

Halloween

2007-11-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

I've never been a huge fan of cheerleaders in general, but when the costume is $2 and it fits, you go with it! We had a good time. We trick-or-treated at Wal-Mart which Ashlyn enjoyed because it was pretty quiet. She didn't mind yelling "trick-or-treat" at all when the goody baskets were un-manned. She got much quieter if she actually had to say it to a live person. When we got to the trunk-or-treat her "trick-or-treat" was just above a silent whisper with all the costumed craziness going on all around her - not to mention that it was also dark by then which she is no longer fond of. On the rare occasion that we go somewhere together in the evening she constantly says, "Oh no! Too dark! Need lights!"

Here We Go!

2007-10-30T22:45:00.001-06:00

It's the Kuhns family's grand debut into the blogging world! We haven't been the best at frequent contact with our loved ones, and now we'll just leave it up to you! If you want to see what we've been up to, you can just check us out.

Ashlyn, being the wonderful, loving 2 1/2 year old sister that she is, just loves to "help" with everything nowadays. She had been climbing into my lap at Lincoln's every feeding for the past few weeks, and usually I would keep a firm grasp on the spoon. This one time I just let her loose. She was very proud to feed Lincoln all by herself!