The Barnum Bunch

A sneak peak!!!

2011-11-29T17:14:00.000-08:00

A friend of ours took family pictures for us and here are a few of our favorites! We haven't had family pictures taken since we've been here- and I wanted beach pictures- so here they are ! More to be seen in Christmas card form!

Days like these....

2011-11-29T17:03:00.000-08:00

On days like today- I have to vent a little. I just recently had a conversation with a friend where we discussed how a lot of the "blogging" world is not real life. Well- here it is today- real life for the Barnum Family! I need to get some of this out- so I can look back and laugh at the day later and realize that I have accomplished something!

All three boys slept until nearly 8AM- this is usually unheard of at our house. So- one would think that they would be in exceptionally good moods right?! WRONG- I have had the grouchiest 2 year old today. I have been hit, yelled at, and had the remote control thrown point-blank at my face. Needless to say he has spent much of his time in time-out in his room, and is now napping(I asked him to please wake up nice again) we'll see if it happens!

The baby has been especially cranky today as well. I couldn't even get myself completely ready for the day- which really doesn't even take that long! He is especially sensitive to noise when he is tired or not having a good day and poor thing-the blowdryer was just too much for him today- the whole 5 minutes of me drying my hair was him screaming his little heart out- I'm such a mean mom. I didn't even get to straighten my hair- because I couldn't bear to listen to anymore screaming! By this time we spent a little time outside (I'm so grateful for Hawaii weather being beautiful and perfect nearly every day so that we are able to get out when we need it~! So after a few peaceful moments of play outside- it was time to take Josh to school. I got all the kids ready to go and out in the van. (oh yeah- have I mentioned I drive a minivan now- yep! I'm officially a "Mormon Mom!"). Anyway- the van wouldn't start. So- realizing the battery was dead- Joshua was not able to go to school today. So- I did get a chance to do my visiting teaching and enjoyed chatting with my good friend for a few moments. Lunch was then served, and cranky children were put to bed so I could deal with my 200.00 cellphone bill complete with overage charges and a Christmas gift that arrived that I paid 3.00 for and 20.00 to ship. Happy to report both things were taken care of! Oh- yes- and the dog did get a bath today- so there it is- it is 3:00 in the afternoon and this has been my day. Somedays I feel like there
could be circus music being played as a background to my life! It is crazy but I do try and remember to be joyful in the craziness of it! I hope everyone else had better days!

Grandma's Visit and Halloween

2011-11-10T16:21:00.000-08:00

Mike was out of town for his best friend's wedding for a few weeks in October, so I was blessed to have my mom here to help- and help she did! My mom is non-stop! I would feel guilty for sitting down because she never just sat- if she was sitting she was folding laundry! I am so grateful for her and all the help she gave me and the fun time that she showed the boys! They love cuddling, playing with, reading with, singing with, Grandma! They can't wait for her and Grandpa to visit again! Here are some fun pics from her visit and Halloween!

Chase's 2nd Birthday (back in April:P)

2011-11-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

Chase's 2nd Birthday this year was so fun! He totally knew what was going on this time! He LOVES music so he received a set of musical instruments from Grandma and Grandpa Briggs, and a ukelele from Mom and Dad along with a scooter and bubble machine. We went to Chuck E Cheese's for games and then came home and had pizza and watched a movie (if my memory serves me correctly:P) We are so happy to have Chase in our family. He is definitely a big presence in our home. He has A LOT of personality. We do think that he will do amazing things with music someday. He loves anything to do with music, instruments, dancing etc. We can take him to the toy store and those are the only things he cares about while we are there. We are running out of children's instrument ideas to buy him:P Now we just need a real piano. Each time he comes home from a friend's house and we ask him how it was, he always tells us what kind of instrument they have at their house, first. Chase is fearless- which promotes much fear in Mom and Dad, especially at the beach or pool. He is very social and loves nursery at church. He is also obsessed with vacuums and lawn mowers- not sure why- but we have caught him on several occasions mimicking the movements of the dads out mowing the lawns around us with his little bubble mower. He still sucks his thumb when he is tired and still sleeps with his beloved, and now ragged, "lamby." Despite his 2- year old stage (and all that comes with it) when he is done telling us "don't say those words" or to "Go Away" he also tells us he loves us and wants hugs and kisses. He even in the midst of a tantrum sometimes screams "hold, and "hug and kiss" as if he knows he can't control his sometimes psychotic behavior:P We are so happy you are 2 Chase and that you are in our family! We so look forward to all of your accomplishments and all the joy you will continue to bring our family as you grow up!

I think he had just stuck his finger in the frosting! I decided to do a candy cake- because well, Chase LOVES candy. (Not that we give it to him very much:P)

Birthday Breakfast (donuts) hmmm... noticing a trend here- it couldn't be these are some of mom's favorite things.... no definitely not...


Playing with the musical instruments that Grandma and Grandpa Briggs sent.

Catchin up a little!

2011-10-24T00:52:00.000-07:00

So this is kind of a random assortment of pics- but I thought the colors in these pics was just so gorgeous! This was some beach time the week before Beau was born- and thus a VERY prego me! This is the same beach as well where Mike was the day the lifeguards called him out of the water to tell him I was in labor!

Bellows- Labor Day Weekend

2011-10-24T00:45:00.000-07:00


Beau's first trip to the beach! The first feel of sand between his toes!

We found this great spot that is super shallow for the boys to play in - and they had a blast!!! Not many boys are so lucky to have Hawaiian beaches as their playground:P We are so blessed to have had the experience of living here!

Boys picture session

2011-10-24T00:30:00.000-07:00

Joshua at 4! What a great big brother and helper he is!

Sweet Beau! 4 months and loves to eat his hands!

Trying to get 2 year old Chase to sit still for pictures- nearly an impossible feat!

Victory finally! Look at all those handsome boys! My sweet friend, Paula, gave me these shirts at Beau's baby shower! They have been so fun! If you had asked me 6 years ago if I thought I would have 3 little boys in that time I wouldn't have believed it- but I wouldn't trade my crazy, busy, sometimes maddening life with these 3 for anything! I am so blessed (and will hopefully one day have lots of fun daughters-in-law in my life- or at least a girl dog:P)

Cuteness

2011-09-12T00:18:00.000-07:00


Morning Swing Time

Chase was sweet to lend Beau his "Lamby"

LOVES tummy time!

Caught a half-smile!


The day he turned 2 months old (before his shots at the doctor!)

Beau's Blessing Day

2011-08-17T00:34:00.000-07:00

Beau's blessing day was actually Joshua's birthday as well, so we will always remember it. We were grateful to have my dad here to assist with the blessing. Mike gave a beautiful blessing. Beau is so lucky to have such a wonderful father and grandfathers to look up to! We are so grateful to have Beau in our family, he brings a sweet spirit into our home. I will post more pics of him in his little white outfit when I can find them!

Joshua is 4!

2011-08-17T00:22:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe Joshua is 4! He talked about how his birthday party was going to be at the pool for seriously a year! So I caved and decided to throw him a party this year. He had a blast! We had several close friends join us at the pool for cake and snacks- and presents of course! Grandma and Aunt Hayley were still here for the celebration as well! Joshua has matured so much over the past year. He is very helpful at home- he is sounding out words, and amazes me with his advanced vocabulary! He started preschool this last week and is absolutely loving it! It's unreal that he will be in kindergarten next year, which he has already announced he is not going to school next year because he doesn't want to get shots. Hmm- we'll see about that! He is so loving and constantly tells me, "Mom, I very love you" He is a very happy and spirited little boy and makes our home a happier place! It is so fun to see his excitement for life- it reminds me to be happy as well! We love you Joshua! Don't grow up too fast! (If you look closely at his cake you will see: Happ Birthday Jashua. Yep- great job commissary!) Next year I will make it myself!

Welcome to the world... Beau Christian Barnum!!!

2011-07-29T00:24:00.000-07:00

Beau arrived at 10:40 PM on Saturday, June 25th. He was 8 lb 2 oz and 21 in long (which we later found out that he was only about 20 in because 2 different offices a few weeks later said he was just over 20in). It's quite a fun birth story to tell:

My mom and Hayley arrived from Chicago the week before he was born. He wasn't due until the 6th of July, so we thought we would have some time to sightsee and visit- so, I went to my regular appt on the 25th and the midwife even offered to sweep my membranes (I was 38.5 weeks at this point). I declined and told her we wanted to do some more activities with my family- but I would take her up on it the following week- to which she replied, " If you're still pregnant!" I really didn't think I wouldn't be- so the following morning, Mike asked if he and a friend could go to the beach for a swim. I wasn't showing any signs of labor and didn't think I would- so I told him to go ahead. So off he went without a phone, or car (he rode his bike). Well probably 20 minutes passed after he left and I had my first "real" contraction while standing in the kitchen after breakfast. I immediately panicked because Mike wasn't home and was unreachable by phone. I have heard so many people's horror stories of delivering 2nd and 3rd babies in the car, at home, etc. So, I flew into gear. I also wasn't packed or anything for the hospital ( thankfully I at least had diapers thanks to a baby shower, and had washed some of the baby's clothes). My sister, Hayley, offered to drive to the beach to notify Mike. So she got there and told the lifeguards who then got on their megaphones and yelled, " Mike Barnum, you're having a baby!" He rushed out of the water, and drove home. When he got in the door he immediately put his stopwatch on and started timing my contractions for me (so sweet!) We were out the door and to the hospital by about 10:30-11:00 ( my first contraction was at about 8:30). We got there without delivering in the car and my contractions were still irregular so they had me walk around the hospital for 2 hours and come back. I was literally running up and down stairs trying to get things moving along:P It worked! When they checked me again I was dilated to a 5 and having contractions every 2-5 minutes, so they admitted me, broke my water, and told me it probably wouldn't be too long- how wrong that was!!! I got my epidural around 3:30. Oh the epidural- that's a whole other story...

This being my 3rd epidural, I immediately knew something wasn't right. First of all- it took FOREVER to administer. I also kept having shocks go down my legs, and just a whole lot of "readjusting" with the wire or whatever they use. So, when he finally finished, I was still feeling contractions- to which they told me it would take a few minutes- well - it never really did work. They just kept coming in and administering lidocaine. At one point they told me they had given me enough to have a C-section, and I could still feel my legs and contractions (though at this point they were bearable- thankfully!) So, I dealt with a bum epidural and also was taking FOREVER to dilate!!!!! I kept wondering what the holdup was with this 3rd kid! Thankfully the midwife when I was 9 cm finally realized that the previous midwife on shift had not broken my water entirely! Apparently there are 2 sacs they have to puncture and she only got the outside one! The things you learn- I didn't know this before. Anyhow- I finally made it to a 10 after that and was able to start pushing- and pushing!!! I probably pushed for about 15 minutes and felt A LOT more than I wanted to! He was finally out and Mike actually got to catch him! It was too cool! I should mention too, my mom was there for the birth and was a huge support in getting nurses attention and so forth for us! I'm glad she was able to see Beau come into the world! I was also glad he was out! He cried a lot more than my other babies have when he came out, and was the biggest so far! They even think he was only 37 weeks gestation because he was still covered in the cheesy coating. So, thank goodness I didn't go full term or he may have been HUGE! I didn't feel very well after delivering, but I just thought it was because of all the pushing I had done to get his little round head out! We spent the next 2 days recovering and enjoying our sweet little boy in the hospital. He was born with a full head of dark hair just like the other two boys and looked so much like Chase- we kept calling him that by mistake!

We were released on Monday morning, the 27th, and unfortunately would be making subsequent trips back to the hospital. I realized after a few days that my headache from "pushing" was not going away, along with back and neck spasms that sent me to bed flat on my back with a heating pad. We finally realized I had spinal headaches due to the lovely anesthesiologist leaving a huge gaping hole in my spinal column so that all of the fluid was leaking out before getting to my head! It was the most excruciating pain to which the only relief is to lie flat on your back (and who can do that with a newborn?) Anyway- thanks to a wonderful anesthesiologist back in Labor and Delivery, I was able to get a blood patch. That is where they put a vile of your own blood back into the same spot in your back and it clots up the whole. It cures the headaches INSTANTLY!!! I was so grateful to be feeling good again so that I could take care of my baby and family! I tell this in this much detail because Mike also had these headaches and suffered through them. A lot of doctors are hesitant to the the blood patch -they will just pump you full of narcotics until your body heals itself (which can take days or weeks!!!) So- if anyone reading this has this happen- insist upon a blood patch immediately!!!!!

So- now we are home. Beau is month old and a wonderful baby! We are so glad he is here. I have so much to catch up on with birthdays, holidays, and family visits- and I will- I promise!!!! It is just a balancing act right now and I am so behind on the blog- it seems like a huge task- but we'll get there! Life is good! More pictures and updates to come! The last pic is 2 days before I delivered! We took my mom and Hayley to Sharks Cove to snorkel- I even snorkeled with my big belly because I knew it would be a while before I could do it again! It was a blast!!!!

For those who don't keep up on Facebook....

2011-03-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

This little BOY will be joining our family around July 6! We're excited and very prepared! (well with clothes and things). My sanity will probably come into question a few times as I figure out how to juggle life with 3 busy little boys!

Whale Watching at Makapuu Lighthouse Trail

2011-03-08T00:04:00.000-08:00

My friend brought her bird along for the walk, lots of people stopped to ask if she was a pet or a bird in the wild!

A Whale!

Okay, so this was a funny day! We didn't actually make it to the lighthouse because the hike was so steep and my pregnant self in the hot sun had to stop, however, we did see some whales far off in the distance and some beautiful views of the island with great friends! Thanks so much to Christal and Alicia for helping take turns pushing my jogging stroller which had everyone's lunches/coolers, a sleeping Chase, and Joshua who decided after a few steps he didn't want to walk up the steep hill (I can't say I blame him!) I will definitely try this hike again (when I'm not pregnant!)

Backstep to Valentine's Day

2011-03-07T23:56:00.000-08:00

No chocolate until after breakfast, Chase!

My mom always made Valentine's Day such a fun holiday. We always woke up to a decorated table complete with a box of chocolates and other little gifts, and pink pancakes! I have tried to do the same. This year instead of regular pancakes, I made pink crepes filled with strawberries, bananas, and whipped cream! They were pretty good! We took the kids to the mall for some games and shopping (and of course a ride on the mall monorail) and then that night Mike and I had a wonderful friend volunteer to watch the boys for us while we went out! We went to a Japanese restaurant where they cook the food in front of you. It was delicious and so nice to enjoy a meal without wiggly boys! Thanks again, Tara!

Brody

2011-03-07T23:49:00.000-08:00

So I am finally getting around to posting about our new dog. We adopted him last June from another family on base. He is a 70 lb sweet, energetic, Golden Retriever. He is 2 years old and was Mike's dream dog. We saw him on Craigslist, went to meet him, and came home with him that afternoon. I watched how gentle he was around the kids and I was sold. Brody LOVES water as you will see in the pictures below, and as I mentioned has A LOT of energy, which is sometimes good and bad! He is very sweet natured, and has never had an accident in the house! I was so happy not to have to train a puppy! His only vices are perhaps the hair (oh the constant shedding of hair) and his occasional thefts of entire batches of cookies or bread from the counter (yeah- I've learned to keep the kitchen gate closed if we go upstairs even for a minute!) We feel very lucky to be his family!

The Happiest Place on Earth Once Again!

2011-03-07T23:40:00.000-08:00

The last week in February our family made a last minute decision to fly to Disneyland for a week! We didn't think it was actually going to happen but Dad got leave, tickets were bought and off we went for an entire week of fun and much needed family time! We stayed just a few miles from the parks in a suite- which was actually pretty decent. We spent 3 days at Disney and 1 at Sea World. It was non-stop fun! The only thing missing was our good friends, The Tolmans, but I'm sure they will join us for our next trip:P Here are some of the highlights in pictures.... Enjoy!

Joshua all ready for the first day at Disney (little did we know we were dressed to freeze!) It was in the high 50's and low 60's the whole time we were there and we've got Hawaii in our blood so that was mighty cold!!!!

Chase all ready for fun!

Horse-Drawn Fire Truck

Joshua concentrating on his driving at the boys favorite ride, Autopia. I think we drove these cars 4 different times in our 3 days there!

Chase couldn't even see over the steering wheel so it was a little scary riding with him (and bumpy) but he couldn't have been a happier kid until...

his mean parents made him get out of the car for the next riders ( I literally had to rip his hands from the steering wheel!)

But don't worry he got to ride again, and again, and....again

Awesome net climbing at park at California Adventure

Gotta have the classic castle picture

Watching how cartoons are made!

Joshua jumping for joy at Sea World

The fun finally got to him

Poor Joshua has recently moved to a booster seat and isn't used to not having sides to rest on like in his carseat- he would fall asleep in the craziest positions

Spoiled kid at Disney

Mike's Recent Accomplishments

2011-02-03T23:58:00.000-08:00


I'm really late at posting about this, but back in September and October, Mike attended a leadership school for his upcoming promotion to Staff Sergeant! It was a grueling 6 weeks of classes, really. I didn't believe my neighbor when she said her daughter did homework ALL THE TIME. Mike would leave early in the morning and get home right in time for dinner (usually around 6) and then would be up doing homework until 11-12 every single night and even had a lot to do on the weekends! We seriously didn't go to the beach for a couple of months, because of his workload. However, it all paid off in the end! Mike worked so hard he was able to earn 1 of 6 Distinguished Graduate awards out of over 50 students (the pic above is just of his class). He also was nominated for and received "The Commandant Award" for outstanding leadership abilities. I was so proud to attend his graduation and cheer him on for all the outstanding work that he was being recognized for. Not only did he achieve good grades himself, but he also spent many hours outside of class with a fellow classmate who was struggling and together they were able to graduate! Congratulations Mike! We love you! One more point I have to brag about: Mike recently passed the Military Japanese Proficiency test which means he now is proficient in Chinese and Japanese (amazing) and we get paid more for each language he knows! Go Mike!!!!

Pictures to go along with post below...

2011-02-03T23:47:00.000-08:00

Kissing at the campground (Bellows Air Force Station)

A beautiful Hawaiian Sunrise at Bellows (my favorite place:P)

Barnacles? We found at Electric Beach on Christmas Eve (where we went kayaking) Funny story about these is that after I showed them to the kids, we found Chase trying to snack on several of them. I really had to convince him to spit them out after hearing him crunching on the shells- they must have tasted pretty good!

Our little musician's favorite present from Santa

Showing a crab to the kids at Electric Beach

Sweet Joshua

Have you given up on me?

2011-01-18T00:20:00.001-08:00

Okay, so I've been the world's worst blogger as of late! I think Mike has given up on me as he kept asking if I had put any posts up as of late, and he finally did the last one on his own! Thanks Mike for documenting some of our life these last several months! As I sent out in emails about Christmas cards, I feel I do have a good excuse being PREGGERS and all! For those who don't know....Baby # 3 is due July 6th! So that makes me 16 weeks already! Crazy that we'll find out what we're having in just 4 weeks! I am just expecting to see little boy parts unless they tell me otherwise, and I'm okay with that! Let's face it, I would love some more estrogen in this house, I mean even the dog is a boy, however, I have boys, I know how to handle them (mostly) and we have all the clothes/toys already. So, whatever the outcome- we will be happy and know that was the little person that was supposed to join our family! We'll keep y'all updated!

As for catching up... well I've missed quite a few holidays, so I thought I would do a quick synopsis for our own journaling- sorry if it bores the rest of you and also throw in a few pictures of the boys! We have finally bought a new camera and so hopefully we will be taking more quality pictures from now on!

Thanksgiving...
We had several friends over to our house for the feast this year. There was so much yummy food and it was really the first big meal I had been able to put down in weeks- so I was a happy girl! We ate, went to see "Tangled" and then came back and ate some more. It was a lot of fun- and it was so nice to split up the menu so that no one was stuck with cooking the entire meal alone!

Christmas...
The week of Christmas we were able to go camping with a few other friends at Bellows Air Force Station which has got to be one of my favorite places on the island! We were quite worried that we would be rained out but the weather was perfect for us! We roasted our dinner over the fire that night, the kids loved running around with glow sticks (thanks Kecks!) We made S'mores and then stayed up talking until late. Joshua and Chase did great sleeping in the tent. The next morning our kids were up before sunrise (of course) so Mike took Chase to the beach and they watched the sunrise their while Josh and I cuddled some more in the tent! We then had a delicious dutch oven breakfast!!! (Thanks for the recipe- Tolmans!) All in all it was great fun! We would have liked to have stayed longer but we had a fun dinner party that next day that we needed to get home for!

Our Christmas festivities included going downtown the to the city lights festival, fun games with friends, progressive dinner, and kayaking on Christmas Eve!

Christmas day was pretty relaxed the boys had fun opening their presents and Mike was surprised with a Playstation 3 from Chrissy! I also received some wonderful gifts including a professional massage- which was wonderful! Christmas here is pretty weird. As Mike posted, the boys got a pool for Christmas and it was hot enough to use it right away!!!!! I miss white Christmases , but I think I would be longing for this weather again after a few days of cold!

Fun in the Sun

2011-01-02T10:55:00.000-08:00

A few days after Christmas, the honeymoon between the boys and their new toys was pretty much over, and they needed something else fun to do. Luckily, Santa left a family gift just for this occasion. Here are some pictures of Josh and Chase enjoying the Hawaiian winter weather.

Videos from Waimea Falls

2010-10-19T00:44:00.000-07:00

Joshua-Isms October 2010

2010-10-19T00:43:00.000-07:00

When I returned home from a church meeting the other night Joshua said over and over again: "Mom, that is a very beautiful dress!" He was probably just excited to see me in something different than I usually wear:P

He also told me that night as he was laying in bed, "Mom, I'm so glad you are back." So sweet.

He keeps telling me we need to put a Christmas tree outside and then the snow will come down. (so sorry to disappoint the boy that won't be happening anytime soon:P)

He keeps asking me if we can get on a plane to go up and see Jesus.

Tonight he told me he really wants to get married! (Mike and I were telling him about when we got married) When I asked him who he wanted to marry- he replied- Jesus! Don't think he quite gets the concept yet:P

On our way back from the falls on our hike the other day he said, "Mom, where's our house? Oh no- we are lost!"

He often tells me at a red light that I can't make a right turn:P

He is voluntarily eating raw spinach on his sandwiches- yay Joshua!

He is signed up for a soccer league but won't let go of mom and dad's legs when we go to the practices.

He is obsessed with colors right now and which colors go together to make other colors (due to a dvd:P)

It's late and that's all I can think of right now:P

A perfect Afternoon

2010-10-19T00:28:00.000-07:00

Ty, Joshua, and Savannah

Troy and Brinley

Wuz up!

Joshua actually got into the water without being coerced- a HUGE step for him (he also tried to push Chase in while I wasn't looking- luckily he didn't lead him in too far!)

We had a perfect day on Friday! We started out at the library for story time where our story teller earned an award for being the best on the island:P We then headed up to the North Shore for some great eats and a hike at Waimea Falls. This hike was beautiful and totally kid-friendly with paved trails for strollers! The kids had a blast chasing after the wild roosters and swimming in the pool the falls run into. Just as we were leaving, we were surprised with a treat! A hula dancer and her accompanist laid down mats and performed right in front of the falls for us and taught the kids a few things as well. It was so fun to watch:P We are so happy to have such great friends here and hope we meet up with them again another time in another place since we all eventually have to say goodbye:P

Handsome Boys

2010-10-19T00:13:00.000-07:00

My boys looked so handsome before church a few weeks back- we had to take pictures! I am so blessed to have all of them in my life:P

Church Trunk or Treat

2010-10-19T00:11:00.000-07:00

We have celebrated Halloween a little early here this year- our church had an activity on October 9th with a Chili cook-off where my chili placed again:P and a trunk or treat! Mike actually wanted to dress up this year and so this is what we came up with- he plays the part pretty well huh?! Love you Mike!

Diamond Head Hike

2010-10-19T00:09:00.000-07:00

We finally hiked Diamond Head with some our new friends from the ward this past September! I was proud of myself because I carried Chase 95% of the way. I finally asked Mike to take over when we reached the last spiral staircase because my legs were jello by this point! We kept seeing people on the way down who couldn't believe we had hiked up with kids- but it really wasn't that tough and the view at the top was awesome! I'm glad we can cross another "thing to do in Hawaii" off of our list:P

Air Show

2010-10-19T00:02:00.000-07:00

We were able to attend the Blue Angels Air Show in Kaneohe in September. It was awesome! Mike was especially thrilled when they had a demo of what the new F-22 can do! All the noise scared the boys pretty badly- but all in all it was great fun! (until we got stuck in traffic for 3 hours 1.5 hours of which were on a school bus being shuttled back to our car) but the boys did great and were even singing together "The Wheels on the Bus" It was too cute! Yay for family time! I didn't get any pictures of the actual air show- but this plane in the background is huge! (Obviously) and we used to have these right next to our old house and the windows would rattle at night when the engines started up! We were grateful for them at the airshow because of the all the shade they provided:P

Joshua Quotes September 2010

2010-09-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

Because this is our family journal: Here are some more of my favorite quotes from Joshua as of late:

He said our family prayer last night "Please bless Jesus to come to our house."

He also stopped in the middle of the prayer and said "I need to see something" ran downstairs looked in the refrigerator so that he'd have some ideas of things to thank God for! We were cracking up when he came back in and finished his prayer. What a sweetie!

He asked me which friends we had seen at the store recently. Then said: " I love them, they are friendly, friendly like dogs." (Tara and Nolan:P)

He told Mike when the bathroom fan was on: "Turn off the fan it's not stinky in here anymore!"

He's been sick this past week and today we were outside in the front riding bikes for a few minutes. He sat down and said: "Mom I am out of energy. " I asked him if he wanted to go inside to which he replied, "yes, let's go inside and get some more energy."

While walking through the grocery store (very loudly) "Mom, what just came out of my bum?!!!!" yeah- a little embarrassing for me:P

The other night when I got up to get him a drink of water he said: "Mom, say excuse me." I still don't know what I did?!

His intelligence level just grows every day- today we stopped at the dentist to pick up some paperwork for preschool and he had told me that he needed to use the bathroom- so just as I started to speak to the receptionist he reminded me, "Mom, ask if they have a bathroom."

"We don't eat poop." (No, Joshua we don't!)

We love him- he keeps us laughing:P

Visits to North Carolina and Illinois!

2010-09-10T17:38:00.000-07:00

We made our first trip back to the "mainland back in April/May. It was a whirlwind trip but great to see family and friends again. Sorry to those of you we may not have been able to see- we hope to be able to stay much longer next time!!!!! We started in SC with Mike's dad and wife - Sue. We had a great time relaxing at their house, Joshua and Chase had their first fishing experience on Grandpa Barnum's boat, we were able to visit the Columbia SC temple (a highlight of the trip where we also ran into our great friends from Monterey, the Gardners unexpectedly!!!!!) and I honestly can't remember what else- it's been a few months! We then were able to spend some time at Mimi's house in NC where Joshua and Chase LOVED Mimi's cats, and playing with their cousins! We had a great time socializing and having a fun lunch at Red Lobster in Concord. We were also able to visit my brother Ryan, and his wife Meagan and meet their sweet, beautiful, Brinley!!!! We wish we could have spent more than a couple of hours with them!

Before we knew it we were on to Chicago where we spent time with my family at a Children's Museum downtown Chicago, ate out lots, and Mike and I got an overnight date thanks to my mom and dad!!!!! It was a great time and so fun seeing my parents new house and beautiful new lawn! (last time we were there they just had dirt and weeds!) The boys had a great time being out in the yard collecting bugs with grandma and spending time with Grandpa as well. Joshua left his mark on Grandpa's couch in his "man room" with a permanent marker. Sorry about that Grandpa! We love our families and are glad we were able to see them even if it was a short visit! We hope to visit or have you visit us again soon!!!! Also- I don't have any pics of the kids with Mimi- I think because she was taking lots of pictures I thought I had them too- so Mimi- I need to get copies of those pics so I can post them!

Fun Visitors!

2010-09-10T17:17:00.000-07:00

I'm also finally posting the visit with some of our favorite friends, The Tolmans! They came in April for a week and it was soooooooooooo much fun to see them again! We visited the Dole Plantation, Ko Olina, The Polynesian Cultural Center (Thanks again Tolmans for buying our tickets- you rock!) Cheesecake Factory downtown Honolulu, Hanauma Bay, Electric Beach, and we got to play with sweet Jessica for a day while her mom and dad celebrated their anniversary with a visit to Pearl Harbor, A submarine tour, and lots of other fun shopping, eating out! Another fun fact to note: Hank and Danica were able to celebrate Joshua's 1st birthday with us in Monterey, CA, and they were here for Chase's 1st birthday- how cool is that?! We love you guys!!!! So------ Am I enticing anyone else to come? We still have a guest room even in our new house and welcome any visitors! (I'll post pics of the new house soon!) We love to play tourists when people come and remember that we do live in Hawaii (sadly, it has been about a month since I've even been to the beach- am I crazy or what?! We love you Tolmans! Come visit us again!

Kauai Kayak Trip

2010-09-10T17:06:00.000-07:00

So I'm finally blogging about some things that happened a while back. One to note is our Kauai kayak trip we took in July with some amazing friends! We went with 3 other couples on a 2 day kayak trip (17 miles) along the Na Pali coast on the Island of Kauai. It was very convenient to have my sister living with us at that time to watch the kids for us. So we set off and arrived on the island late on the night of June 30th where we finally found the campground (Kauai is not nearly as inhabited as Oahu) it seemed like we were driving on windy roads forever. We found that our tent was already put up for us! (Thanks Taylors!) We tried to sleep but it was nearly impossible being that we didn't bring an air mattress and the ground was full of rocks, and the wild roosters were crowing all night (I thought they only made noise when the sun comes up?!) Not to mention we were to anxious about the trip itself! Well-morning came early and we had to be at the Kayak office around 6 AM if I'm remembering correctly. We set off and kayaked to the first beach- and a few minutes into our paddle Mike and I were the first to tip and ruin our brand-new "waterproof" camera. Yeah- that's another story. However, thankfully, the Taylors took lots of pictures and thus, we have some proof that we were there!

We spend 2 nights at the first beach. We did see a pod of dolphins from far off on the way, a few sea turtles, and a rainbow! The coastline was absolutely gorgeous, so much so, that there are people who live permanately at that beach and can often be seen showering naked in the waterfalls! Mike witnessed that firsthand! We did some hikes on the first beach which included a swim trip to sacred beach (I opted out of that one seeing that I'm not a fabulous swimmer and my fear of sharks or just big fish wanting to snack on me!) We ate military MRE's which I never want to eat again, watched beautiful sunsets, chatted with friends, and just relaxed.

On the 3rd day we paddled to the last beach with a few stops in between to a Hawaiian burial ground, where we also saw some crazy mountain goats. We enjoyed the last day of paddling and ended up tipping over coming in to the last beach and I got hit in the head with the kayak! Way to go Barnums! All in all- it was the experience of a lifetime! I'm proud to say I paddled 17 miles of coastline that can only be seen by boat or in the air! It was some of the most gorgeous scenery I will probably ever see in my life and I got to do it with my sweetheart by my side, and great friends! Yay for adventures even after kids!

Joshua-Isms

2010-08-22T01:35:00.000-07:00

Joshua has said some really funny things lately- and my family always tells me I need to write them down- so here a few I can remember.

"Mom, you smell like dog." (after I had told him that earlier in the day after he helped bathe the dog with daddy."

"Mom you are really heavy." (thanks Joshua!)

To Mike the other night as he was putting him to bed, "Daddy, lay down by yourself, with me."

He often tells us things are "too dangerous."

He often ends up in bed with us in the middle of the night- and in the morning he wakes up and says, "Smile mom!"

He does several jobs on his own now including dressing himself, and feeding the dog! He also loves to help with dishes and laundry. I'm sure that will change:P

"You're not my mother, you're a girl!"

He tends to be shy around new people or large groups of people.

He has so much energy! I wish I could tap into some of it!

He keeps me on my toes all the time. He is so bright and picks up on things and remembers them upon hearing them just once! He also remembers things that have happened very well- and often reminds me of the time I took a wrong turn on the way to church.

He was out playing in his car the other day and asked, " Mom, should I turn right, or the wrong way?"

He gives lots of hugs and tells us he loves us all the time, and told me today, "Mom, I know you love me." It melted my heart.

Joshua is such a sweet, bright, energetic boy and we are so glad he is ours!

Chase-Isms

2010-08-22T01:26:00.000-07:00

SO Here are some of Chase's latest tricks!!! (at 16 months!)

He says so many words right now: Joshua, Mom, dada, dog, Thomas, milk, more, all done, graham cracker, light, nose, eyes, "No!", "Mine", Hello, Bye, Thank you, scriptures, and probably several others but as tired as I am that is all I can remember at the moment!

He is running- it is the cutest darn thing!

He LOVES to do anything his brother Joshua is doing.

He walks around the house with the church hymnal singing and pretending to lead the music.

He loves to feed the dog at mealtime if Mom forgets to put the dog in his room.

He LOVES being outside!! He complains very loudly when mom makes him come inside (unless there's good food involved!)

He Loves to eat. I think he is happiest when sitting at the table enjoying a good meal!

He really likes to read and will even sit and read books on his own for a few minutes at a time- I love it!

He is very friendly and waves to random people and says "Bye". He waved to a truck of landscaping guys the other day as I pulled him out of the car- the guys loved it- it was too cute!

He is very into the "Mine" thing right now- this is early for me- Joshua didn't learn that word until nursery. He even claims his body parts as"Mine" if I am trying to wash his hands or face after a meal, or if I pull his thumb away from his mouth for a minute to put his pajamas on!

He is still an amazing sleeper. He sleeps all night and takes 2.5-3 hour naps during the day. He loves his bed and gladly goes to sleep when we put him in it.

He has 6 teeth, but is getting some more on the bottom at the moment!

He can follow directions without motions. I asked him to put something away in his closet the other day and he did it! It's amazing how much these little ones understand even if they can't say much!

Chase is a Joy- such a bright ray of sunshine in our home- we love you so much Chasers!

Recent pics of the boys

2010-08-22T01:15:00.000-07:00

Chase LOVES food- especially chocolate cupcakes!

Joshua in his "Christmas Jammies" the boy seriously loves Christmas and these pajamas. I've caught him sneaking to put them on several times during the day. He tells me they are "cozy" and if we ask him if he's tired he will say "yes, I want to put on my Christmas Jammies" Thankfully I was able to sneak them away tonight for a wash!

Joshua would not look at the camera- he loved seeing Toy Story 3 recently!

Chase is getting soooooooo big! What a little man!

The brothers together!

Oh my what a night!

2010-08-22T01:07:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged consistently in forever, and I feel bad about this, however if I can give you a glimpse of what life is like at times, I'm sure many of you understand!!!! So Mike had to work today and I decided to make it a housework day as well. The kids and I (haha) cleaned a bathroom, vacuumed the entire house (even the stairs:P) made granola, and then at the end of the afternoon went out to run some errands. We finished up at the grocery store and I noticed as I was putting the stroller away into the car that there were a bunch of spider egg sacs attached the back of the stroller near the handle I had been pushing with (lovely) knowing that we were almost home and not having anything with me that I could remove them with I stuck the stroller in the car. As soon as we got home, I pulled it back out only to realize that not only were there egg sacs but several hatched babies crawling around the sacs ( I immediately ran in for a can of RAID telling Joshua- DO NOT TOUCH ANYTHING- but of course upon my return he has my keys and is jabbing at the egg sacs with them. I grabbed them from him and sprayed that sucker (the stroller down) only to my horror does a giant brown spider (the mom) crawl out trying to avoid the fumes. After we killed her, we noticed she had some strange markings on her belly- freaky. The closest picture I think I've found is the brown widow?! Anywho- thankfully there were no bites.

We hurried in to get dinner on which I thought I had timed out perfectly. I was going to make oven fried chicken for the first time. I even cut up a whole chicken!!! Well apparently I had looked at the recipe wrong and it needed to be cooked longer than I thought, so back into the fridge the chicken went, and out comes the waffle recipe. In the midst of making it, Chase pulls down the egg carton and scatters the empty gooping shells all over the floor. Both kids end up touching the shells and anyone who knows me well knows how paranoid about salmonella I am! So I immediately sent them to wash their hands. As soon as I was done washing Chase's he picks up a spare egg shell we had missed...Back in to wash his hands! I pulled out the mop to mop up the egg mess on the floor. As I go to return it to the closet I notice Joshua standing looking sheepish next to a big puddle- he didn't make it into the bathroom in time- well thankfully I still had the mop out. I finished making the waffle batter but heard some curious crashes coming from upstairs in the boys room. I ran up there to check things out only to find everything from the top of the bookshelf on the floor and Joshua still naked except for a shirt listening to a Thomas story on cd. (He had used the bookshelf to climb to the top of the dresser to turn it on!) Anyway- the night ended with a great meal of Belgium waffles, peaches, and bacon. A close second to chicken, I guess. There are two little angels upstairs sleeping now, and exhaustedly I type away as therapy. Does anyone else have days like this?

Chase is 1!!!! (3 months ago:P)

2010-07-13T01:07:00.000-07:00

So I guess I really need to update our blog! It's been months and I really don't have any great excuses except, in April we had some of our favorite friends visit, had Chase's first birthday, went home to NC and IL for 3 weeks, went through promotions testing, had a sister come to stay, got a new dog, and are packing up to move into a brand new house! I think those are pretty good excuses- don't you?! Anywho- here are some updates on us- starting with Chase!!!!

On April 18, we celebrated our sweet Chase's 1st Birthday! What a first year it has been! Chase is so much fun!!! We have so enjoyed having another sweet little boy in our home! He has grown in so many ways! He still only has 6 teeth (4 on top, 2 on the bottom) He is saying a few words, Hi, Bye, All Done, Dog, please, thank you, and he tries to mimick lots of others, he is very busy and logical about figuring out how to do things. He LOVES to follow his brother around even though his brother doesn't always appreciate being followed! He LOVES to eat although he is starting to get more picky. Probably his most favorite food is Watermelon- he can't get enough. He love to be outside and runs for the door whenever it opens. He has been a pretty amazing sleeper since he was born and still takes 2 naps a day, ranging anywhere from 1.5-2 hours each and still sleeps from 7:30pm-7AM! It has been so nice to have 1 kid that's a good sleeper! Chase is such a bright part of our home with his smiles and laughs. WE love you Chasers!!!!! Here's to another great year of watching you grow!

3 years ago

2010-07-13T00:40:00.000-07:00

This sweet busy boy came into our lives 3 years ago on July 10, 2007. He has filled our lives with pure joy. He is now potty trained ! His vocabulary is extensive as he now tells us things are "dangerous" or "You can do it Mom!" He is very curious and asks questions like: "Mom, does the dog have elbows?" He is also so very loving, He loves to cuddle in the mornings when he wakes up and is constantly telling us he loves us. He's getting so tall! However- he's really thin and so he is still wearing some 24 month shorts- though- his pants are turning into floods:P
He also LOVES trains! He had a Thomas birthday this year complete with a Thomas Cake, Thomas decorations, Thomas trains, cards, etc. It was a lot of fun! We love you sweet Joshua and are so glad you are ours! Don't grow up too quickly!

Newly Refurbished Guest Room

2010-04-11T11:35:00.000-07:00

With the guests we have coming in the very near future- we decided our guest room needed some remodeling! Mike's mom and dad gave us this bedroom set to use when we first got married- and we were so grateful! Since then, it's been through several moves and was looking pretty rough. So- we decided to "antique" it! We're thrilled with how it turned out and wanted to put it up here to entice you to visit us! Our good friends Hank and Danica will be here this week, and Aunt Trisha will be coming in May for a while. We're excited to have them and would love other visitors! We'll make sure your stay at the Hotel Barnum is a pleasant one:P

Happy Easter!

2010-04-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

This year we spent Easter with some of our good friends! We had crepes for breakfast, watched a special broadcast for church, and came home and had steaks and shrimp for dinner. Joshua also got to participate in an Easter egg hunt with his favorite friends! We then had a yummy carrot cake for dessert. (It was a little more brown than supposed to be but tasted pretty good for my first attempt!) It was a great day!

Updates on Joshy and Chasers

2010-04-01T00:22:00.000-07:00

I know- silly me with the nicknames- I'll try and drop them before they start to embarrass them! Joshua is growing by leaps and bounds! He can actually carry on conversations now and is getting so tall! He has been average on the height charts, but at his last visit, the growth line instead of following the curve went straight up! He will probably be tall like his daddy (which we have guessed from the beginning by the size of his feet!) Some cute things he has said/done as of late:

The other morning when he woke up he came into our room and said, "I need to go to the store to get some more toys, I just need some more toys, otay?"

He randomly sings Happy Birthday to random people.

Whenever we have flies/bugs in the house he says, "I don't like bugs in my house!" (I wonder where he has heard that?!)

He constantly says to Mike and I, Mommy or Daddy, "I Know you" I'm still trying to figure out what that means- because he does tell us he loves us at other times!

He said his bedtime prayers all by himself tonight!

I can't believe he's going to be 3 in July!!!! We're so thankful he's ours.

AN UPDATE ON CHASERS:

Chase is now walking!!!!! He took a few steps at a time a few months back, but now he is mostly walking without help! We even went and bought him his first pair of outdoor shoes because he LOVES to be outside with all the neighborhood kids pushing his little walker around.

Chase LOVES to eat.

He started pointing just yesterday, and has been pointing and babbling to things he wants. He is very observant of what we are eating and whether or not he has the same thing. Joshua wouldn't eat his dinner tonight and so I gave him a bowl of cereal. Chase noticed immediately and I ended up putting some cereal on his tray as well!

He is in the process of getting his 3rd and 4th teeth. (kinda late- I think?)

He LOVES his brother, Joshua. He is his greatest source of entertainment.

He is still our happy, smiley, easy-going boy who, for the most part, loves to take his naps and sleep at night (when his teeth aren't bothering him!) We love him so much!

Easter Boys!

2010-04-01T00:10:00.000-07:00

This picture of the boys in their Easter best was too cute not to share! Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for the cute shirts and ties! Joshua didn't want to look at the camera for the family picture- but the flowers in front of our house are sure pretty!

What's been Goin On!

2010-03-19T00:44:00.000-07:00

Well I have been terrible about blogging because it involves consistency- which is a trait I will go to my grave trying to master! We have had an eventful last few months! The boys are GROWING up so fast! Chase will be 1 next month. He cruises along the walls all day long and will take a few steps at a time but always resorts to crawling for efficiency and speed! He waves bye bye, and we think he says "hi" and "all done" He LOVES his brother, Joshua, as he is a great form of entertainment! Joshua continues to amaze us with his vocabulary and insight. He seems to observe and say things far beyond a 2 year old's comprehension- but we are his parents and are probably pretty biased! We have to try and stay 2 steps ahead of him at all times or disaster is sure to ensue. Just recently we took a trip up to the North Shore to Turtle Beach. It is named this because it is a spot where you can see turtles coming in to sun themselves on the beach. It was really neat to see them up close! I always love going up to the North Shore- it is such a beautiful part of the island! We also spent a wonderful day in Waikiki for my birthday this past week. I woke up to a wonderful breakfast and flowers on the table! After my shower, I came down to find a Kitchenaid mixer on the table!!! (something I have been wanting very badly as of late!)After spending a wonderful afternoon at the beach with the boys we ended the day with Cheeseburgers at Cheeseburger in Paradise- downtown Honolulu and birthday cake! It was a great day! I am old- but so happy with what I have been blessed with in life! Life is good! Here are just a few pictures- we just bought a new video camera and we've been taking more video than anything lately- and I will spare you those!!!!

More "Joshua-isms"

2010-03-06T23:40:00.000-08:00

Our spirited little Joshua has said so many funny/amazing things over the last several weeks and my mom keeps reminding me to write them down- so here it is for documentation and giggles!

Joshua came running from the kitchen into the living room last week yelling, "Mom the fly is not working!, the fly is not working!", after following him to the place- there surely was a dead fly there. Too cute.

Joshua is my bug catcher (the dead ones) he picks them up with a paper towel and throws them in the trash for me! He gets a kick out of me acting all disgusted by the bugs (which I actually am)

I was scolding Joshua for something not to long ago, and in the midst of my little lecture he yelled right into my face, "Happy Birthday To You!" I had to laugh at his really good attempt to change the subject!

Speaking of birthdays- he is obsessed with them! He can sing the Happy Birthday Song really well and LOVES birthday cake/candles, etc. His 3rd birthday this July should be really fun!

One morning we had some scattered clouds in the sky, and he acted concerned and said, "Mom, the sky is broken." So- we had a little lesson on clouds!

He is communicating so well right now in complete sentences, and sweetly asks me all the time, "Mom, are you okay?" (I think we ask him that a lot) He also asks me if I'm awake, or sick, or tired. It's so sweet.

He loves to play with friends, and asks to play with them in his sandbox.

He knows all of his colors, most of his letters, and a lot of shapes- most surprising to me are shapes like cones, cubes. (Thank you Starfall.com)

He really likes to be read to, which makes me really happy! He knows many of his books so well if we leave words/phrases out he can complete them.

He still pinches skin (particularly elbows) to comfort himself or when he's tired.

WE LOVE OUR SWEET JOSHUA! Sorry it this seemed like a bragging post- but I have to document his progress or I'll forget!

SAND BOX

2010-02-07T22:39:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting a sand box for Joshua for months now. However, we could never find exactly what I had envisioned and I know we live in Hawaii, but we couldn't find play sand anywhere! Well, this past week we finally found some sand for sale on base, and I asked Mike to build Joshua and Chase a "custom" sand box. I just couldn't see spending 50.00 on a flimsy plastic turtle box. (no offense to anyone who may have one). Well, Mike did an amazing job!!! He's so handy. I love being able to have him build whatever I ask him too. He was even more excited to do the job when I told him he could purchase some more tools to make the job easier (a circular saw, electric sander, and a few other things!) The boys absolutely LOVE it! Both of them have thrown fits at different times when it has been time for baths, dinner, etc. I'm glad we've finally found something to really keep them busy and away from the TV!!!! Go Dad!!!!! There was one mishap, as Mike was screwing in the final seat, the wood split and broke, so that seat will have to be replaced, but otherwise all went well! Mike even made a cover for it at my request. (We have lots of birds and cats in our neighborhood!) Hopefully the kids will be able to enjoy it for many years to come.

The "Apple Train"

2010-01-26T23:20:00.000-08:00

We visited the Dole Plantation this past weekend so Joshua could go and ride the Pineapple Express Train. Have I mentioned that this boy is OBSESSED with trains? He received his first train set for his birthday this past summer, and has been hooked ever since! It was so fun to watch him as the train pulled up, and during the ride. Hank and Danica- this is the place to get a Dole Whip! Chase had a following of Korean tourists! About 15 of them were Oohing and Aahing over him and even asked if they could take some pictures with him- it was pretty funny. Of course we think our baby is cute- but it was so funny to see other people so interested. We think he won them over with his gigantic blue eyes! He has certainly won us over!

Chase is 9 months!!!

2010-01-26T23:13:00.000-08:00

Chase is such a little man. Here he is enjoying his first taste of mango! (thanks to my mom for the idea of letting the kids chew on the seed!) Karin- don't try this at your house- I still remember!!! Anywho- Chase is starting to take a step or two at a time, is waving bye-bye, fake cries, and LOVES Joshua! It is so fun to see them interact when Joshua is not bullying him! I think they are going to be great friends!

Beach Day

2010-01-18T14:55:00.000-08:00

We spent a day during the Christmas holiday at Ko'Olina. It is a resort with beautiful coves for swimming. Every beach in Hawaii is public by law, and so we can go to these resort beaches without staying there! We had a great time in the water and playing in the sand (Chase especially enjoyed sampling the sand- several times!)

Christmas Day!

2010-01-18T14:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day was so much fun! The boys actually slept in for once and so Mike and I laid awake just waiting for them to get up! Any other day we would have been trying to get any last few minutes of sleep we could! Josh was most excited about the candy canes Santa left on the tree! He didn't even see his bike until Mike pointed it out to him! We got so many nice gifts from family- thank you everyone!!!!! The boys are loving their new clothes, books, and toys! We had a huge pancake breakfast (courtesy of Great Grandma and Grandpa Briggs!) Dinner that night was roast and potatoes with Pumpkin Spice cake for dessert. We also enjoyed having Mike's friend, Tom with us! I have a video of Josh, but it was very difficult to try and get him to hold still for pictures with all the new toys!

Seasonal Activities

2010-01-18T14:36:00.000-08:00

While trying to get Joshua excited for the Christmas season, I made some green Play-Doh. We decided to make snowmen (we don't see any of those for real around here and Joshua is obsessed with snow and snowmen) anyways- I let him put the "buttons" on one of the snowmen and this is how it turned out. UMMMM- I don't know!?

Thanks Uncle Bruce!

2010-01-18T14:34:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Eve we also had a family gift exchange over the phone! My whole family spent Christmas at a cabin in Driggs, Idaho. We were sad we weren't able to see everyone, but it was fun to start some of our own traditions with the kids. My Uncle Bruce sent this great pacifier for Chase, and, of course, Josh had to try it too!

Christmas Eve

2010-01-18T14:30:00.000-08:00

So some of my posts might be out of date order- but at least they will be up! On Christmas Eve we decided to just spend time completely as a family. Mike was on leave from the 15th on- but we had hardly seen him at all as he was working on submitting a packet for officer commissioning. We were thrilled to have him home for the holidays! We decided to go downtown to see the city lights after the kids naps. Unfortunately right when we pulled in to see them, it started to rain. So we waited it out for a while and it stopped shortly after. That's one thing that is nice about the rain here- it doesn't usually last very long! We walked around the different HUGE statues they had of Santa, Elves, Trains, etc, and then went inside to see the Festival of Trees, Gingerbread houses, and wreaths. It was lots of fun! When we got home we ate lots of yummy finger foods, and watched a Christmas movie. We made sure to set out a plate of cookies and some egg nog for Santa before Josh went to bed! It was a really fun afternoon! Don't be fooled by Joshua's innocent looking pose in the bottom picture. I think this was right before he grabbed onto one of the trucks while the tree was spinning around. Thank goodness nothing broke!

So Far Behind!!!!!

2010-01-18T12:08:00.000-08:00

So I am a horrible blogger. I was pretty good when I just had Joshua, but the addition of Chase just makes life twice as busy:P So I am attempting to catch up- but it might be a slow process depending on how kids do with naps. Right now Chase is throwing a fit in his bed. I think more teeth are headed this way. Here are a few cute pics to wet your appetites for more (if you're even interested!) Thanks for checking in with us- we will be up and going again soon!

Look What I Can Do!!!

2009-12-02T22:38:00.000-08:00

We can't believe how quickly Chase is growing!!!! He is speed crawling all over the place (he started crawling right before he turned 7 months old) and a few days after that he started pulling himself up on the furniture. If he follows the pattern of his brother, Josh, he may be walking in a matter of 2 months- yikes!!!!! He's so fun!

Too much pink to handle

2009-11-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

Chrissy has had that pink background up on our blog for too long now. I let it slide for as long as I could. I had to take action. I hope everybody likes the new soft blue, instead of that bright pink attacking your retinas. Anyway, that's all I have. We'll post more soon. Bye!

I'm an Aunt!

2009-11-02T23:31:00.000-08:00

Okay- so I was already an Aunt by marriage on the Barnum side- but I am so excited to announce for those of you who know them: Ryan and Meagan just welcomed Brinley Kaethe (pronounced Kay Tuh- Meagan's grandma's name). She was born on Halloween Night and is just precious! Check out their link on our blog to see how beautiful she is! We are so excited for them- and know they will be amazing parents! Brinley is one lucky girl!

Pumpkins, Pirates, Lions and ...Roseola?

2009-11-02T23:17:00.000-08:00

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays of the year, probably because my parents made it so fun for us as kids! The only thing missing this year was the cool and beautiful North Carolina fall weather. (yes- I know we live in Hawaii- but we really miss the East Coast and seasons!!!) We had the boys costumes ready to go a few weeks before, sang songs about Halloween, baked cookies, and cupcakes, taught Joshua how to Trick or Treat, and then the week of Halloween- Joshua came down with a fever, then a rash, and the same symptoms repeated themselves with Chase, and Mommy! We thought Daddy had escaped but unfortunately as I write this he is up in bed with the fever and chills. We suspect Roseola? Adults don't usually get it- but we had all the classic symptoms. So Joshua was feeling better in time to Trick or Treat, but Chase was still under the weather, so our night was cut short. We had a great time watching Joshua though! Next year will be even more fun as Chase will be toddling around!

Halloween Chili

2009-11-02T23:09:00.000-08:00

Halloween this year was fun, but interesting! We started off the festivities with a ward party including a chili cook-off and trunk or treat. I decided to cook a pot of chili not really for the contest, but just so we didn't come to eat empty handed. To my surprise they awarded my pot of chili 2nd place out of about 20! The funniest part was Mike had carried it in and so they called his name as the winner and wrote his name on the certificate. Oh well- I know who the real winner was:P (Thanks Mom for the recipe!)

China Town

2009-11-02T23:00:00.000-08:00

Chase just hangin' out!
Joshua trying to get Daddy to try the Dragon Fruit!
A peek at the crabs

Mike took a field trip with his Chinese class to China Town. He had such a great experience he wanted to take us to eat and see the open markets so we took off a few Saturdays ago and had a blast. We ate at an authentic Chinese restaurant, where Mike ordered in Chinese, and ate lots of things that I probably would have never tried- that were really good! Joshua wouldn't touch even the noodles- we later found out he was getting sick. We walked around the outdoor markets where they sold everything from fresh fish to pigs intestines and blood. Does anyone know why someone would want to buy pigs' blood? Anyway- a very interesting and cultural experience for anyone who comes to visit!

Tree House

2009-11-02T22:52:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to blog about Joshua's cool tree house for months now! Our awesome neighbors, who have since moved away, saw this on the curb with the trash and thought Joshua would really like it- which he does! It's unbelievable the things military people just throw/give away. I let him have lunch in the tree house with his friend Savannah not to long ago- it was so cute to watch! Joshua LOVES Savannah and constantly talks/asks about her and her house! We're glad she and her parents live so close!

More Cute Footage of our Chase

2009-10-09T00:34:00.000-07:00

Seriously Cute Boys!

2009-10-09T00:30:00.001-07:00

Joshua had some friends come over and ask if he could play for the first time!

Haircuts!!!

2009-10-09T00:22:00.001-07:00

Before (you can't tell from this picture but he had a SERIOUS comb-over)

After

Chase had his first haircut the other night and he looks like a different kid! I had noticed that underneath the last bit of his shiny black hair, was light blonde hair- and had wondered if his brown hair would grow back in- Nope don't think so! Maybe one of our kids will look like Mike! So far they seem to be favoring my side of the gene pool! I'm so grateful for Mike and his barber skills- he saves us so much money and does a great job!

Halloween Fun!

2009-10-09T00:12:00.000-07:00

Each Monday night we have Family Night and this week we decided to bring in some Halloween Spirit! We started off the night by allowing Joshua to help "make" some pumpkin cookies for the neighbors, we then sang some songs and put together a cute plastic pumpkin that Grandma Briggs sent. Joshua was so much fun! He even took cookies next door to our neighbors all by himself. We decided to have him take some to the neighbors on the other side of us as well, however, he dropped the cookies before he made it to the door. Oh well, those neighbors are the ones who have woken us up with music and laughter at all hours of the night. I don't feel too bad that they didn't get cookies:P

More "Joshua-Isms"

2009-09-29T22:50:00.000-07:00

I have been terrible as a mother at writing the cute things down that Joshua has said. I am quick to call my mom and tell her- but then I forget to record them- so here are some of the latest, and not so latest things Joshua has done or said that have made us giggle:

A few months before Chase was born, Joshua was flipping through the TV channels and somehow stopped on a Rowdy Hawaiian Church Sermon. Anytime the preacher mentioned Jesus Christ Joshua yelled, "Amen! Amen!"

I came down for church a few weeks ago in my dress and as soon as Joshua saw me he said: "Nice Momma!" (We always tell him he looks nice on Sundays!)

One morning we were out of milk and I told Joshua that it was all gone and we were going to have to go to the store to get more, he ran in the direction of the closet to get his shoes and yelled, "Let's Go" (Mind you it was 7 AM!)

Another morning, Joshua walked up to the fridge and said, "HMMMMM, juice or milk?"

Joshua is very good at calling out any kind of nakedness now- for himself and us. So we have to be extra modest around here now!

I told Joshua we needed to go to the store to which he replied, "Store, More Pop!" (Smart little stinker remembered he had eaten the last bag of popcorn last night- so we added popcorn to the list!)

A few days ago, Joshua had a little girlfriend over to play. I followed after them as they ran up to his bedroom and when I got there, he slammed the door in my face and said, "Bye Momma!". (Hmmm isn't he a little young for this to be starting!)

That's all I can think of right now- but I will try and be better at recording these so that we have record of them in the years to come!

Apple Pie...Barnum Style!

2009-09-29T22:46:00.000-07:00

Tonight for dinner I made a yummy quiche with bacon, spinach, and mushrooms in it. I wasn't sure how Josh would react to what was being served, but when we put it on the table he exclaimed, "Apple Pie!" We didn't correct him! He proceeded to eat bites of spinach and mushrooms throughout the rest of dinner and we even heard a "yum" or two. We will have to have Apple Pie for dinner more often!

Too Cute!

2009-09-22T01:02:00.000-07:00

Chase

2009-09-22T00:48:00.000-07:00

As promised to grandparents long ago..... Videos of Josh and Chase

2009-09-22T00:32:00.000-07:00

Judd Trail

2009-09-22T00:26:00.000-07:00

We recently hiked a cool trail through bamboo and rainforest to a pool of water where you slide down the rocks into the water- yet another fun thing to do in Hawaii!

Just Some Cute Ones!

2009-09-22T00:21:00.000-07:00

AIR SHOW

2009-09-22T00:14:00.000-07:00

We were able to attend the annual Air Show featuring the USAF Thunderbirds this last weekend- it was awesome! We heard the planes practicing on base toward the end of the week when they arrived and it was so loud it made Joshua run into the kitchen screaming thinking they were going to get him! The show was filled with cool tricks done by the F-16's and lots of patriotic music- you definitely left the show pumped up and grateful to be living in such a wonderful country!

Camping Hawaiian Style

2009-09-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

This is how Joshua fell asleep in the tent- notice the dirt and matshmallow on his legs.

Joshua and Jimmy messing with the firepit (boys will be boys!)
Our new 6 person tent!
Campsite with palm trees- need I say more?!

We went camping a few weeks ago at Bellows Air Force Station - it has one of the most beautiful beaches I have seen on the island so far! It was also great camping in a place where you have overnight guards (one can't be too careful these days!) We have only been camping one other time since Joshua was born and he was too young to remember- he really had a blast! We went with our good friends the Fillmores who have 5 kids and one on the way! Yeah- Valerie is a trooper to go camping while pregnant! We got to the campsite later than we had planned and ended up setting our tent up in the dark- but Mike got to roast marshmallows with Joshua while I put the baby to sleep- we played cards with the adults and just enjoyed some adult conversation! Joshua ran all over the campsite and enjoyed the beach and park the next day! We will have to go again soon! Thanks Fillmores for inviting us!

Tuesday Night Date!

2009-09-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

Mike and I really NEEDED a date last week- and since we hadn't planned ahead and gotten a babysitter Mike had the idea to grill out and eat a candlelight dinner on the patio! He set everything up including our battery powered radio playing Oldies while we ate some delicious grilled chicken, homemade mashed potatoes , and topped it off with S'mores and a game of SCRABBLE! What a fun night! (As you can see I totally dressed for the occasion)

A Boy and his Fruit!

2009-09-01T18:56:00.000-07:00

This kid LOVES fruit! It's especially amazing to us when we place a cookie and some grapes in front of him and he eats the grapes!!!!! Now if we can just get him to eat meat and vegetables!

On the Move

2009-09-01T18:55:00.001-07:00

Chase rolls to wherever he wants to go now! Gone are the days of putting him down and finding him in the same place! In this particular instance he started out on the blanket!

Rogaine Anyone?

2009-09-01T18:52:00.000-07:00

Chase's hair is falling out like crazy! He has bald spots on the back and side of his head now! Every morning I look in his crib and he has rubbed more hair onto his sheets! Poor little guy- at this rate he'll be bald by 6 months!

The Rollover Pro!

2009-08-12T16:39:00.000-07:00

Chase has now mastered rolling over onto his tummy and has lots of tummy time! It's especially funny to go in when he wakes up from a nap to find him in the most interesting positions! He's such a sweet baby! He has his 4 month check up tomorrow- so I'm sure we'll be updating with his statistics again!

72 Hour Kit ---Finally

2009-08-12T16:35:00.000-07:00

So, I'm embarassed to admit that Mike and I have been married for 4 years now and we just barely put together our 72 hour emergency kit! Better Late than Never! We thought we might be hit with a hurricane here in Hawaii, so we figured now was the time- so we are prepared! Joshua kept trying to get in it to steal the cookies!

Anniversary Fun - Year 4!!!!!

2009-08-07T19:51:00.000-07:00

Mike and I were married on August 5----- 4 years ago!!! Time certainly does fly! As we thought back to our wedding day- we are so happy and blessed to have found each other and to have the 2 sweet busy boys that now grace our home with their spirits! Life is grand! To celebrate we spent the afternoon snorkeling at Hanauma Bay with our new snorkel equipment! Then it was to dinner at the Outback and a movie! Thanks so much to our friends who watched our kids for us so we could enjoy some precious alone time!!! I think this is the most beautiful place we have been in Hawaii so far ( I keep saying that when we go somewhere new!) We saw so many different types of fish, coral, etc! It was awesome!

We Love Grandmas!

2009-07-31T00:50:00.000-07:00

Joshua got this wonderful Birthday Package from his Grandma Barnum. He has enjoyed everything in it! Thanks Grandma!!!!

Sleepin Boys

2009-07-31T00:46:00.000-07:00

This is how Chase falls asleep a lot of times. However- he has been trying to stuff both hands in at once lately and has a harder time going to sleep- anyone have any ideas? I went from having the easiest kid to take naps to really struggling this week! Any suggestions would be great!

Joshua had trouble taking a nap one day and Mike thought he looked so cute in our big bed!

Now we Know Why the Box Says 3 years and Up

2009-07-31T00:39:00.000-07:00

New Family Pics

2009-07-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

Since we have a new member of our family, and Joshua is 2- it was time for some more family pictures! We haven't had any taken since Josh was Chase's age! Overall, I wasn't thrilled with how they turned out, but here are some of the best ones out of the bunch.

Little Sponges

2009-07-14T00:15:00.000-07:00

Kids really are little sponges. As a child, I watched my parents do things, and noticed as an adult that I have some of those same behaviors. Now, it is really interesting to watch Joshua pick up little sayings and behaviors from Mike and I. Most recently, I have noticed that he uses a couple of phrases we say more often then we realized! When he gets excited, he says "all right!" (care of Mike!) If he falls down or runs into someone or something he says, "Oops, sorry" - this is especially funny when he runs into the couch and says it! (care of Chrissy) Probably the funniest one to me though is :

"Oh Shoot!"

I was trying to figure out where he got this one from, and then I got lost one day and caught myself saying it 2 or 3 times.

Joshua went to the dentist for the first time a few weeks ago and as we were walking up to the door he kept repeating, "Oh No, Oh Shoot, Oh No, Oh shoot." Ummmmmmmm- I hope people don't think he is saying anything other than shoot! I will try to watch my mouth more carefully from now on!

By the way: I had the camera out to video Chase and Joshua wanted me to take a picture of him and then he actually posed like this by himself- too funny.

Joshua is 2!!!!!

2009-07-13T23:05:00.000-07:00

Joshua's 2nd Birthday was on July 10th! We celebrated during the afternoon due to Daddy sleeping in the morning and working that night- but it was still fun! The birthday boy had a breakfast of Marshmallow Mateys (of which he only ate the marshmallows) and strawberry cheesecake muffins- yum! Lunch was Lunchables Pizza, and for dinner we had his favorite: Macaroni and Cheese!!!! His cake was a race car track and it sure didn't turn out like it looked in my head- feel free to laugh at my expense! I figure he has lots of birthdays for me to beef up my cake decorating skills! At least he will know his mom loved him enough to try and make it for him! He asked me all day to lift him up "to see" the cake- it about drove me crazy! I was so glad when Mike got up so we could sing to him and let him take those cars off the cake!

He got a train set from Grandma and Grandpa Briggs which he loves so much I have already replaced the battery in the train 3 times! (video to follow!)

He also got a CARS chair, Mack (from Cars) bath letters, bubble bath, and some books. Again we thought we got him too much because he only wanted to play with the cars from the cake- oh well?!

Our friends the Clines popped in for cake and brought Joshua a really cool Diego truck set.

We are so glad Joshua is a part of our family. He is so smart, loving, and full of energy! He keeps us on our toes and makes our home a happier place! We Love you Joshua!!!!!! We can't wait to see what this next year has in store for you and us!

2nd Breakfast

2009-07-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning I came downstairs to find Joshua attempting to crack eggs into the waffle iron. I had already fed him, but he apparently wanted eggs also. Well. the damage was done so after I cleaned the egg whites off the floor and removed his socks, I scrambled those eggs right up and Josh ate every bit of his 2nd breakfast!!!!

That Joshua Strikes Again!

2009-07-13T17:57:00.000-07:00

Joshua has really kept me busy these past few days. I came down the other day from putting Chase down for a nap only to find "toothpaste snakes" all over the carpet!!!! Joshua had evidently started up the stairs to look for me and found my bags of bathroom supplies! When I asked him if he ate any he said "yeah." Then, concerned he may have eaten a lot , I asked him if it was good- and he also replied, "yeah." A quick sniff of his breath confirmed he had definitely eaten some- thankfully there didn't seem to be any adverse effects- except to our carpet!

Sweet Sweet Chase!

2009-07-13T17:34:00.000-07:00

Chase is now 3 months old! He is such a sweet baby and we are so enjoying watching him grow! He now rolls onto his side, sleeps 8-9 hours in a stretch, falls asleep for naps by sucking his finger and thumbs, has started reaching for things and occasionally gets them! He is so alert and such a happy baby, he will lay on his back and coo away at the walls or whatever is around him! He can't ever have the spotlight to himself as Joshua always has to get in on the action- I guess that is what being a middle child is all about huh?!

A Day With "Fudge" AKA Joshua

2009-06-26T15:03:00.000-07:00

So if any of you have read the "Fudge" series by Judy Blume, I feel I have a Fudge on my hands! He is so smart, and so into everything! As I'm cleaning up one mess- he's into another. AHH gotta love the 2 year olds! The other day the boys and I went to run errands while Mike caught up on sleep (he's working nights now) so I bought Joshua a new coloring book and crayons while we were out. Before we had even paid for it he was coloring in it- which was fine until I got home feeling we had a very successful outing (no tantrums, meltdowns) and I looked at his face realizing as I was strolling around feeling like I was in control and having a good morning- Joshua was coloring all over his face with his new crayons! I can only wonder what people in the stores were thinking! We have such a long double stroller that I can see Josh- but not always what he's doing. Oh well. At least they make Washable Crayons eh?! (Click on the picture to see his full artwork)

So this morning was quite a morning as well. I got into the shower and put a show on in the guest room for Joshua to watch. This is our daily routine- he usually floats back and forth between the guest room and the bathroom while I'm showering. Well, this morning, I got out and heard the baby crying (who was supposed to be down for a nap) I opened his door and went to check on him only to notice that his full little swaddled body was turned around in his crib 180 degrees- and his blankets were tossled around in the crib. HMMMMM, I know Chase couldn't have done this. Thank goodness I didn't find him on the floor! Joshua just grew tall enough to open doors within the last week. Moral of the story: We are buying Childproof door handles this afternoon!

So..... I get the baby back to sleep and continue getting ready. I run into the bathroom to finish my hair absent-mindedly leaving my makeup kit on the dresser in the guest room. Joshua comes in a few minutes later and taps me saying, "eyes". He had found my mascara and even applied some of it correctly! I took that away, hurried to finish my hair and went into the next room just as he was starting to apply foundation!!!! Wow. The picture says it all.

This is one busy boy.

Where Have 2 months Gone!??????

2009-06-26T14:57:00.000-07:00

Chase is now 9 weeks old! I can't believe the time is flying by so quickly! He is still sleeping pretty well at night- anywhere from 6-7 hours at a time. He has found his fingers and hands and is content to suck on them all day! He is such a sweet and happy baby. He really only cries if he's tired or hungry! We are enjoying him so much! He is a hefty one! Here are his 2 months check-up stats:

Weight: 11.5 lbs!!!! (Joshua didn't weigh that much until around 6 months)
Height: Can't remember the exact number- but he's in the 75th %!!!

He's going to be a big boy! We are having so much fun watching him grow!

The Hottest Bod at the Pool!

2009-06-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

We Love When Grandparents Come to Visit!!!!

2009-06-26T14:42:00.000-07:00

So we just spent a wonderful week with my parents! It was so great to see them! Of course they came bearing all kinds of gifts for the boys! I don't think we'll have to buy clothes for another year! They also watched the kids one afternoon and paid for us to go on a 2 hour horseback ride through some beautiful scenery and movie set scenes! Not to mention the fun time we had at the zoo, beach, and pool. Thanks mom and dad for the great times! Thanks for all the dinners out, putting up with us and our kids, and for loving and supporting us in everything! We love you so much and can't wait for you to come back again! The only picture I got of mom and dad together while they were here was them in their bathing suits and while they look great- I don't know if they'd appreciate me posting that picture!!! Here are some pictures from the pool and our horseback ride. The potbelly pig was at the stables as well! You can't help but look at him and laugh.

Chase's Blessing Day!

2009-06-15T00:17:00.000-07:00

Mike was able to give Chase a special blessing at church today! He did a beautiful job and it was so nice to have my dad here to participate! We are excited to spend time with my parents over the next week! Chase is such a cute and well mannered baby! Now that we've gotten some of his health issues resolved he's an angel baby! He goes down for naps with hardly any fuss, is content to play and look around on the floor or in his swing and just watch what goes on around him, and has even been spoiling me with 6-8 hour nights of sleep! I'm in heaven! This morning I went in to get him and he was just looking around his room and gave me the biggest smile when I called his name! I love being his mom and am so glad that he has come to join our family!!!!

A Common Scene

2009-06-14T23:53:00.000-07:00

Joshua does not like to hear Chase cry. He often yells "No!" at him and puts his fingers in his ears. There have been times in the car where it has literally driven him crazy to the point of screaming himself. Poor little guy!

Our Little Redneck Baby!

2009-06-14T23:45:00.000-07:00

Joshua is often seen sporting just a diaper while playing with his swimming pool! (notice I said- playing with- not in). He's not such a fan of getting in the water. However, he did find mud in the yard and had a blast putting in the pool.... and well.... pretty gross huh?!

Chubby Cheeks!

2009-06-07T19:24:00.000-07:00

This was a good close-up of our chunky little Chase! He is growing so much faster than Joshua did. He is already 10.5 lbs at 7 weeks! He is wearing 3-6 month clothes! Joshua was still in 6 month clothes at 9 months!

He has some big smiles for us now- which I have yet to catch on camera successfully! We're so glad he has come to join our family!

Oh- An update on the Dairy/Soy allergy thing- He doesn't have one! However, we were sad to find out the poor little guy somehow came down with a case of Salmonella. We still don't know how he got it, but he's been on antibiotics for a few weeks now and things seem to be clearing up. We're glad he's feeling better!

My Boys

2009-06-07T19:21:00.000-07:00

I had Mike take a picture of the rare moment I had nice clothes and a touch of makeup on! These days I feel like I've accomplished something at the end of the day if I've gotten a shower!

Bedhead

2009-06-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

State Fair!

2009-06-07T18:45:00.000-07:00

We decided to take Josh over to the State Fair on Saturday. We had a great time even though it felt like it was about 1000 degrees outside! Gotta love that tropical sun! Maybe we'll start getting some color on our white- selves!

What will he think of next?

2009-06-07T18:42:00.000-07:00

We have found Joshua sitting in some of the funniest things from the kitchen. Doesn't look very comfortable to me!