Quinn and Annie...and Belle and Parker

Family Christmas Pictures!

2011-12-16T15:48:00.006-07:00

Thank You Laura! Great Pictures by Laura Barnett 3 Years in a Row!

Here are some of my favorites:

The Lights on Temple Square

2011-12-11T23:43:00.004-07:00

We decided to brave the cold with Nolan and Marjorie and take the babies to see the Christmas lights up in Salt Lake...

What were we thinking... please note Belle's crazed expression in the picture below

Her eyes, leash, and the death grip I have on her pretty much say it all.

It was beautiful, freezing, and SUPER crowded...I think we are still a few years away from our kids appreciating, or allowing Quinn or me to enjoy, this special Christmas scene.

As my father likes to apply Charlie Brown's wisdom, 'and by golly we were going to enjoy those lights!'

Parker Boy 7.5 Months

2011-12-08T23:14:00.004-07:00

I love this boy! Definitely a mama's boy who complains whenever I leave his direct line of sight; even though he makes it difficult to think through the yelling while I do laundry, dishes, shower, get dressed, go to the bathroom, and basically everything else moms need to do everyday, I LOVE his constant snuggles and smiles:-)

He is great at feeding himself from his tray (green beans, corn, bread, etc.), holding his sippee cup, saying, "dadadada, mamama, bababa, nanana," etc.(he also mimics me with a ssss noise when I shoosh him in the mornings as we're walking by Belle's room), crawling/scooting all over the place to steal Belle's toys, and walking while holding my fingers (even though sometimes he gets excited and lets go of me and I have to catch him quickly!)

He has 5 and a half teeth (he's finally getting his right front tooth:-) This kid is awesome and such a boy- he loves hitting everything, especially things that make noise, he loves biting my shoulders when he hugs me, and he LOVES his sister and his daddy.

Belle's First Haircut

2011-11-22T23:41:00.008-07:00

Beautiful, Bobbed, Bright-eyed, Baby doll!!

Belle was basically bald until she was 2 years old and then her hair came in as very fancy, uneven wisps. Now her hair is coming in beautifully so we are giving it a chance to even out:-) I will miss being able to do it up in pig tails, pony tails, and ribbons and bows, etc. (although I don't think Belle will miss me doing up her hair;-).

Halloween

2011-11-21T21:58:00.000-07:00

Belle was so excited for trick-or-treating this year (explained it to her at least 20 times during the day so that she would be well prepared when the time came). After dinner she asked to put on her costume and hold her pumpkin bag just like I had been telling her she could:-)

She snuggled Parker and said goodnight...the little man didn't even wear his costume that night- too sleepy!

Quinn and his dad took Belle and her friend Sudiksha around in our neighborhood.

This was the first trick-or-treating experience for both girls since Sudiksha is the daughter of the VP of Quinn's company and they moved here from India last June.

They had a great time, and Quinn enjoyed reporting to me afterwards: Belle was a pro apparently...she would hold out her bag and say trick-or-treat and then after she got her candy she would say in the same breath,"thank you, next door!" Haha I guess all of my training stuck!

She enjoyed her candy that night, but we put it up after she went to bed and she has never asked for it again:-)

She has, however, enjoyed playing trick-or-treat several times since...she'll take a toy basket and walk around the room and then come up to me, say the line, wait for me to put a toy in the basket, and then say thank you and repeat the process. This girl has a great imagination:-)

Visitors and Goodbyes

2011-11-20T21:05:00.005-07:00

At the end of October my sister Emily and my brother-in-law Chris brought their kids (Mary 7, Ben 5, Will 2, Lily 5 months) out to visit Chris's family here in Utah...so we were able to visit a little with them too!! Belle and Parker had a blast swimming with their cousins at their grandparents club house (their community has a super nice hot-springs swimming pool and a couple of hot tubs that were perfect for the chilly weather).

We also met them up in Salt Lake one afternoon and checked out the children's exhibit at the Church History Museum...Belle has a blast going fishing off of Nephi's ship (with magnetic fishing pole), and dressing up the dolls from the nativity scene (paper doll style but made from wood with felt clothing). There was also a kitchen and farm area, interactive computers with games and puzzles, an area to dress up and learn a traditional Mexican dance, and this sweet truck featured in the pictures. They divided responsibilities with the truck...Belle is the Driver and Parker is the Parker....haha bet you didn't see that one coming;-).

At the beginning of November we had more visitors who came for a less happy reason... Jake and Lanie and baby Jakey (who is not much of a baby any more) came to pack up all of their things to officially move to Chicago:-/ It was a pretty wild week of packing, cleaning, and playing. Some how this is the only picture I got of Jake and Belle playing together...we are really going to miss them and I'm so glad Belle and Jake got a little time to play together now that they're finally old enough to do so (we learned that between the two of them they could trash the entire house in about 35 seconds:-). I will REALLY miss having Lanie here (and Jake too I suppose;-) to do things like watch BBC mini series, talk about literature, swap naughty-baby stories, and generally enjoy life together as only women can. I am so proud of my baby brother and the decisions he's made with Lanie in their life together; it is a joy to see all of their hard work beginning to see pay off for them. Have a blast in your new adventure...we will miss you!!

At the end of it all my dad and sister, Charie, and her boyfriend Ryan came out to help drive everything back to Chicago...and when I say everything I mean EVERYTHING! Ryan took our little red 1988 Honda Accord (which my parents had given me as a college car) and we traded Jake and Lanie, Quinn's motorcycle for their Dodge Neon...we went from 5 vehicles to 2 in one weekend!

Seeing the red Accord go made me pretty emotional...it's the ending of an era (graduate from college and lose my college car to another college student I suppose). Quinn also shared his thoughts on the matter, "goodbye and good riddance!" Whatever Quinn, Take care of my car Ryan!

October Odds and Ends

2011-11-01T21:46:00.003-06:00

I missed a few opportunities to post last month:
We had our first snow the first week of October! It came too early in the year for my liking, but thankfully it didn't last long. The rest of the month we had perfect Autumn weather:-)

Thankfully it was warm enough to continue our daily outings to the many parks in our area...we will miss you, Playgrounds! We had our second winter storm today, and I am told the third will be here later in the week- bring on the Winter weather! The scene is set perfectly for us to begin listening to Holiday Music (or Christmas Music as some would say). It is traditional to start listening to the festive tunes on November 1st in our home...it's the holiday season!

It's also football season...Go Broncos! We went over to Boise to cheer on 'Uncle Byron' last month. He is having a great year and we are loving to watch his games...every time Belle sees Football being played she exclaims, "THERE is Uncle Byron!"
Her hair looks so awesome in this picture because she pulled her piggy tales out and then the sun shine, sun screen, and noise-cancellation headphones made her head itchy... but don't worry, she does have a pink lolly pop:-)

Random stories about Belle:

The first time I asked her if she wanted piggy tales in her hair she stood frozen for a second, then turned around and gave me a suspicious look, and then scrunched her nose and said, "oink, oink" (I guess my innocent expression convinced her that my question was sincere and she decided piggy tales were a good idea).

I do Belle's hair with her standing on her step stool in front of her bathroom sink, so she can see herself in the mirror. For almost a month, every time I finished she would like at herself in the mirror and say, "I'm a girl!"

Parker Update

2011-10-19T09:18:00.007-06:00

Parker boy is our healthy happy little buddy:-) He's been very into his exer-saucer for the past couple of months.

4.5 months

He's been rolling all over the place for the last couple of months, and he's great at doing the backwards inch-worm move (he gets up on his hands and knees and pushes backwards).

5.25 months (he was smiling in these pictures until the flash went off- haha that's why he looks so shocked!)

Here he is hanging out with his friend Joshua- little buddies:-)

Parker loves swinging and playing of any kind really- he's a fun sort of fellow:-)

He started teething at 6 months and got his top 'fang teeth' first- just in time to be a dragon for Halloween!Last week his front, bottom two teeth showed up to the party.
Other notes: he weighs twenty pounds and fits perfectly in 12 month clothes; he LOVES Belle, and Quinn and me too, but mostly Belle- he laughs and jumps whenever she makes eye contact (or when he thinks she makes eye contact) with him; he says lots of dadada's and tha's; this past week he's finally started taking a pacifier!; he is pretty good at sitting up, but it doesn't usually last very long before he tips onto his belly to wriggle after something of someone;-); he's really not very in to nursing anymore- he eats 3 or 4 meals of solid food a day and feeds himself puffs and biter bars- he'll only nurse in his room before naps and bed time when he can't hear anything else going on:-); we are still working on sleep training- he has been a great sleeper from the time he was about 7 weeks old but he re-lapsed about a month and a half ago and had a few up-every-two-hours episodes so we started sleep training and he's back to only waking up once or twice a night and sleeping 12 or 13 hours; he usually takes 3 naps (one long nap and two short ones).
Parker is a very happy boy- he loves laughing and slamming his toys to make noise, but he is also sweet and he gives me hugs and kisses:-)

Halloween Preveiw

2011-10-01T14:04:00.000-06:00

Two Dragonsaurs!

Bridal Veil Falls in the Autumn Weather

2011-09-21T10:08:00.000-06:00

The weather has turned a little cooler here (70's instead of 90's) so we've been playing outside everyday and going on as many adventures as we dare!

Here Belle is making a fishy face at the camera...

And here she is making sure Daddy is making a fishy face too;-)

This always melts my heart- Baby Girl holding hands with Daddy:-)

Here Belle is throwing her gold fish off the bridge into the river below...

releasing them back into the wild I suppose.

This is as close to smiles as we could get;-)

Dragonsaur!

2011-09-20T13:36:00.000-06:00

For the last month or so Belle has been REALLY into dragons. I don't know where she got it or why the idea stuck but she loves pretending to be a dragon and yelling, "roar! I'm a dragonsaur! I'm a scary dragon!" Somehow dragon and dinosaur got combined in her vocabulary: Dragonsaur.When we were up at the outlets last month, I went in Old Navy looking for some awesome Bermuda shorts Charie had found at Old Navy in Chicago. No luck on the shorts, but they did have their Halloween costumes out....

Belle ran right past the pretty lady bug, butterfly, and princess costumes, and pulled down a dragon! She took the costume under her arm, hugging to around the neck, and ran through the store saying,"come on dragon!" It was too perfect; I bought it.Dragonsaur Flying.

Giving the "scary look".

Growling at Nana.Chillin on the deck- don't be fooled by her seemingly calm appearance- she could attack at any moment!Feeding time: french toast made by Quinn's Nana.

Summer Visitors

2011-09-19T13:11:00.000-06:00

I did not take enough pictures while we had visitors this summer, but here are a couple of memories:

We loved having my mom (Belle's Nana) and Charie visit us- here is Belle in the new clothes Nana bought her.
Belle somehow picked up that my mom is the boss of me because more than once when I did something Belle didn't like or took something away from her she would say, "No way!" and look at my mom as if to say,"did you just see what she did?! Can't you do something about this?!"
I am kicking myself for not taking pictures while Quinn's Nana and Gramps were here! They took Belle on walks around our neighborhood, went to the park with us, got shave ice, went shopping up in Park City, and we had a few girl's nights. The picture above is Sophie (or Mama Soapie as Belle liked to call her), Marjorie, and I being silly on one of those nights;-)

Belle LOVED following Gramps around and looking for him while they were staying here.
Related story: One evening a week or so ago I was drinking Instant Breakfast (or chocolate milk as it is known in our house) out of a mug and Belle asked for some. I gave her some and she exclaimed,"it's coffee; I'm Grandpa!" Hahaha Quinn and I both looked at each other with wide eyes and then tried not to laugh while Belle kept insisting over and over again, "it's coffee!" We tried to convince her it was hot cocoa or something else, but no luck. "Grandpa" wouldn't hear of it being anything besides coffee- hahaha whatever;-)

Happy Birthday Annie

2011-09-18T12:49:00.000-06:00

25 years old, ladies and gentlemen!

Quinn's family threw me a party this year to celebrate my birthday and graduation! His Nana, Gramps, cousin Sophia, and brother Kurtis were all visiting. His Dad, Janice, brother Nolan, and sister-in-law Marjorie live here, so it was really quite a turn out. The cake was delicious (I ended up eating half of it by myself;-) and I got lots of presents! A very fabulous party indeed- Thanks Hout Family- I love you very much:-)One my actual birthday Nana and Sophie listened for our babies so Quinn could take me on a lovely date. We went to the Cheese Cake Factory for desserts where he gave me some fancy pearls to celebrate my birthday and Parker's birth (a few months ago;-). I don't wear/own much jewelry, so these fit my simple style nicely.
We went and saw the late show of The Help- which was so great- and we were both falling asleep by the time we made it home.

All-in-all, August was a really great month for me this year. Life is pretty difficult and crazy, so it's really nice to have so many happy times squeezed in to one month:-)

The Bob Days Have Begun

2011-09-17T12:32:00.000-06:00

I'm a huge fan of the bob- easy to wash over the side of the tub and style with just a round brush and blow dryer. Not to mention, with less hair I save on product!
Also, it's much more difficult for Parker to suck on or pull out my hair now;-)

Spanish Fork County Fair

2011-09-16T12:01:00.000-06:00

Belle, Parker, and I ventured over to main street for the Fair last month! It was the middle of the afternoon on a week day so it was pretty empty, but that was perfect for a mommy lugging around a big 'ol four-month-old and trying to keep up with her over-excited two-year-old:-)

We had a lot of fun visiting all of the animals: the pig that one first prize was enormous!, Belle was a little afraid of the roosters, and she loved the bunnies, ponies, and cows. We bought a bunch of tickets and Belle rode on lots of rides- most of them 2 or 3 times;-) Parker was a good sport until the last ride on the carousel made him dizzy...poor guy:-/

We mostly had a pretty great time:-)

Graduation- She Made It Folks!!!

2011-09-15T22:51:00.001-06:00

I decided not to attend commencement- too long and boring for my little family and why go wit-Hout them?!Convocation was great! Short and sweet- less than 300 business students and MBAs. The speeches were lovely I'm sure...I was actually enjoying reading Jane Eyre the whole time (what can I say-when I have precious time to myself I choose to read:-).I cannot say how happy I was that my baby sister and my mom came in from Chicago to celebrate with me!

My mother-in-law, Janice also came- it felt so nice to be supported and honored for this achievement:-) I gave my stole to my mom to show her my gratitude: she has always emphasized the importance of education to me, and she encouraged my tirelessly to work hard until I completed this degree. Even though she gave the stole back and requested I give it to Quinn instead (hahaha), it truly belongs to my wonderful, humble, brilliant, loving mother:-)Belle loved my cap and tassel- she kept smiling at me and saying, "Pretty Mama!"Thank you to everyone for all of your support over the years and your congratulations- it has all been needed, noticed, and appreciated by me:-)

Parker's First Solid Food

2011-09-14T22:06:00.001-06:00

August 8th, 2011

We started him three weeks earlier than we started Belle. I planned to wait until 5 months with Parker, but he started waking up 3 times a night again (he had been at once a night for 2 months), so I decided he needed some solid food in that tummy!He mostly liked it;-)

Unfortunately, Belle liked it too. She was asking for some from the moment I made Parker's, her persistence paid off and she received a warm bowl of rice cereal and rice milk...whatever:-) She eats a bowl from time to time with Parker but the novelty is thankfully wearing off.

Our-tist!

2011-09-13T21:50:00.003-06:00

The title of this post is just a little silliness...Our Artist!

I am a huge fan of school supplies (bouquets of sharpened pencils;-). When the stores put out their back-to-school specials I cannot resist buying lots of them (even though Quinn is the only one in school now-a-days:-) This year I decided Belle was old enough for paints! Yippee!!
She is pretty much great at it and not very messy:-) Once I caught her looking from me to her paper over and over while she was stroking with her brush- I SWEAR she was painting me and afterwards she pointed at it and said, "It's Mama!" No one taught her that- she's just awesome;-)

Eventually she tried the straight from palate to paper approach, sans brushes- still not too messy about it though so whatever-have fun you little creative genius:-)

Belle is 2 Years Old!!!

2011-07-30T11:18:00.002-06:00

Belle's birthday festivities lasted a good two weeks this year...it all began with a birthday card from her Mima (Quinn's mom). The next few pictures are for Mima's enjoyment: Belle opening her birthday card...hilarious.

Shocked Excitement

Snuggling it

Hiding it behind her back so I won't try to read it to her

Opening it

and reading it all by herself;-)

We had a birthday dinner with Grandpa and Grandma Hout, and Uncle Nolan and Aunt Marjorie (better known as Conan and Rorjorie, to the birthday girl) on Friday night.

(Side Story: yesterday Belle told me she would see me tomorrow and that she was going to visit Conan...I wished her well;-) She opened and shut the door to the garage and then came back into the living room and exclaimed, "I home!" My how time flies.)

She approved of the frosting on her cake;-)

She really liked being sung to, and she has shared that joy with many of her baby dolls since then by singing to them her own special version of the Happy Birthday song:-)

This year's experience of cake-eating was much cleaner than last year's!

She received lots of presents...some of which are still arriving...her idea of birthdays is pretty grand...every time she finds a cool new thing in the house she asks of me, "birthday?" The answer has been yes a lot lately:-)Parker hanging out with Grandpa... sleepy little fella.

On Saturday we rented a bounce house and a cotton candy machine instead of having a party... it was less expensive, way less work, and LOTS of fun:-)We were in and out of the bounce house all day... Quinn and I may or may not have played a game of HORSE in there while our babies napped and I may or may not have won:-)
Also, I had a lot of fun with the cotton candy machine..."If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up."

Then last week- more presents!
I convinced her to show me a car once,but then she was all business playing with her new garage from Mima... she had no time for looking at cameras;-)

We picked up Belle's final birthday present today! Thanks for the picnic table Nana and Papa!

In the picture below Belle requested lunch and then started saying a prayer to bless it without checking to see if I had complied with her request. She is giving me a look for being so irreverent by taking a picture during the prayer- oopsies!

This little lady is the light of our lives- she is quickly turning from a baby into a little girl, so I snuggle her as often as she will let me. Happy Birthday Isabelle, we love you very much:-)

Orlando Family Adventure

2011-07-28T12:17:00.008-06:00

Our family spent the first week of July in Orlando, Florida!
We went to attend Jake and Lanie's sealing in the Orlando Temple; the entire Brian-Gillespie-Family was able to be there (my parents, my 6 siblings and their 5 spouses, and all 15 of my nieces and nephews)!
The Sunday before the sealing we held a little meeting at the church: Parker and 3 of his cousins were given infant blessings by their fathers and my niece, Ashley, was baptized!

Parker's blessing was so beautiful- he is such a sweet baby and I know he'll become a healthy, wild little boy soon, but he'll always be my sweetheart.
I am so grateful to Quinn for being such a wonderful father, and for living worthily so that he was able to give Parker this blessing from our Heavenly Father:-)

My sister, Emily bravely brought her one month old daughter, Lilian. Even though Parker is two months older than Lily, he was maybe a pound or two bigger than her... she is a BIG girl:-)
We stayed in a beautiful rental community just outside of Disney World- two 6 bedroom houses with pools in the back yards and a castle play ground across the street...paradise for children of all ages;-)

Same face! I don't remember what Ryan was doing or saying to them, but Aunt Charie and Belle both seemed to think is was funny:-)

We played hard and slept well every day:-)
The time we spent in the Orlando Temple was peaceful and beautiful...we were grateful and honored to be there to share in Jake and Lanie's joy. Spending time in the Temple always allows me the opportunity to shift my focus: from the grind of my day-to-day life, to the bigger picture of my family, our goals, and most importantly God, our Heavenly Father. Being there with my husband, my siblings, and my parents really made it feel like Heaven on Earth:-)

Quinn's Day

2011-07-26T10:47:00.001-06:00

This year Quinn's Birthday and Father's Day fell on the same day; lucky Quinn;-)
Earlier in the week I surprised Quinn with a birthday date on a Thursday night. I blind folded him and took him up to Sundance (looking back the blind fold may have been a mistake given the winding canyon roads which lead there- oopsies sorry about the car sickness). Luckily his appetite returned with a little fresh air and we enjoyed a fabulously delicious dinner at the Foundry Grill. Then we grabbed a blanket from the car and took a night time lift ride up and down the mountainside (this is only open two days a month, during the full moon- hence why the date was on a Thursday). We had a blast! I think Birthday dates instead of parties will be a new tradition for us since I found out Quinn doesn't like birthday parties...after I threw him one;-)

Quinn is such a great dad- Belle lights up like a fireworks show when he walks through the door at night and she is crushed if he disappears again before bedtime (like to change his clothes or use the bathroom). I'm pretty sure Parker likes Quinn too, at least he's never told me otherwise;-) Quinn is great about pitching in with house work without being asked, and to my radiant delight he is a fabulous cook (turned grill master recently in honor of summertime)!

Behold his spoils! (not pictured are the new glasses I gave him and his gifts from his grandma)

I was pretty crafty this year with his Father's Day gift:-)

Lanie and I made a delicious Father's Day dinner for the fellas.This picture just shows off the meat- yummy

The Celebration...cyber guests and all;-)
One year old and wiser too... Happy Birthday Quinn, I love you!

Parker Boy

2011-07-25T10:04:00.000-06:00

Our Parker Boy is getting bigger and more fun every month:-)

May 5th (1 month old)

May 15th (1.5 months old)2 months oldStill 2 months old (same day as above, but with a silly smile added for good measure)

3.5 months old on his play mat getting ready to...ATTACK!!

Still 3.5 months- hilarious dozing with Daddy:-)

The Unexpected Zoo Visit

2011-07-24T10:00:00.000-06:00

One weekend we decided to go shopping up at the outlets in Park City. When we were half way there we remembered that our children hate shopping and their discomfort makes it extremely difficult for us to enjoy ourselves either. So, we decided to switch up our game plan and go to the Zoo! We call our friends, Ben and Shelley, who live near the zoo and they happened to be buying tickets online at that very moment! So we met them and their son Miles at the gates a few minutes later and spent the day exploring together:-)

Belle absolutely adored Ben and had wonderful time riding on his shoulders and seeing the animals. Everything went along nicely unless her parents interfered...like when I wanted her to sit with this scary gorilla for a picture, or when Daddy held her in front of a huge dinosaur that sprayed her in the face and soaked her clothes (don't ask me why they decided to put dinosaur statues in the zoo but there were tons of them and Belle was terrified of them all after the spraying incident).We rode the carrousel and a train, and we all went out for ice cream afterwards! Much more fun than the outlets would have been- audible successful:-)

Cousin Jakey's Birthday!

2011-07-23T10:12:00.000-06:00

At the end of May we went to the Dinosaur Museum to celebrate Jakey's 1st birthday!!

Belle assumed the "touching allowed" signs on some of the exhibits meant climbing was probably necessary too.

She especially loved the pretend rock caves...Perfect for escaping from her parents:-)

There were lots of build your own Dino exhibits:

this one was Jakey's favorite,this one was Belle's favorite,and this one was my favorite;-)

The kiddos had a good time. Not only did they get to build dinos, but they also rode dinos...and were carried around by dinos! We ate delicious pizza and cup cakes when we got home and Jakey opened presents all day long. Happy Birthday Jakey Boy- we sure love you!For some reason Belle really liked the sharks- she said hello to them and tried to get their attention for a long time.

Uncle Nolan's Wedding

2011-07-22T11:02:00.007-06:00

On May 17th our little family flew up to Spokane for Uncle Nolan's wedding (with the help of Grandpa Kurt and Grandma Janice on the airplane).

This is Uncle Nolan but this is not a picture of him at his wedding;-) This is a picture of him at his wedding dinner- it was Mardi Gras themed...

which Belle was very excited about;-)

Parker had a lot of fun at the party too...he met his Great Grandma Pat:-)

He also met his Mima (Quinn's Mom)!

He had lots of smiles for her...Belle loves showing her brother off:-)The next day was the Wedding! It was so beautiful- we love you Uncle Nolan and Aunt Marjorie!

Here are Nana and Gramps (Quinn's Grandparents)- who had us stay in their gorgeous house across the river in Idaho.

Here are cousins Jon and Krista and their beautiful daughter Dilila.

Here is our little family- we had a very fancy night full of exploding diapers, daring clothing changes, and nursing in a bathroom stall- haha here's to learning to parent two babies at once!

The day after the festivities we were all exhausted...we lounged around the house and went on a walk around the floating dock in town. It really is such a beautiful place...we miss being there with all of our family:-)

We hugged and kissed goodbye; until next time!

Pool Party!

2011-05-20T02:33:00.001-06:00

Hooray!

Last week it finally got hot enough to break out the swim wear!
Lanie and I put the kiddie pool out on our back deck where the sun heated it to a comfortable temperature...then we put the babies in for a swim and they went crazy!

Belle's favorite part was mixing up various concoctions...

to "share" with her cousin...stinker! Good thing it was hot out:-)
We love the Summer Time!

My Very Own Blue-Eyed Banditti

2011-05-19T23:44:00.001-06:00

I decided to start training Belle to take care of Parker all by herself;-)
Here is the look she gave me during the trial run before I let her hold him. Her face says it all: "This is ridiculous Mom...this is a duck...I'm ready for the big leagues, so bring on the baby already!"

She was so sweet and gentle with him:-)

When he started crying she said, "Oh!", and gave him a big hug.

Then she felt very proud because I told her she helped him feel better... she didn't seem to notice that he was still crying;-)
What a wonderful big sister...most of the time;-)
The rest of the day she repeatedly asked me to, "hold it?"... we are still working on pronouns;-)

Easter Bows

2011-05-18T01:52:00.001-06:00

I failed to get pictures of Belle in her Easter dress this year, or of anyone in their beautiful Easter Sunday attire for that matter, or of the Easter baskets from Nana Charlotte and Grandpa Kurt and Grandma Janice. I did, however get pictures of Belle trying on her new hair bows...

all of them...

all at once:-)
Of course she wouldn't have it any other way...if one is pretty, seven MUST be gorgeous;-)

Parker at Home

2011-05-17T01:33:00.001-06:00

Parker came home from the hospital in the same green and white outfit Belle did...and Quinn did...and all of Quinn's brothers did... and Quinn's Dad did!

Parker's favorite thing to do his first month was to snuggle up and sleep...

without a camera flash going off in his eyes apparently.

He is a great snuggler, and a great sleeper...

just like his daddy:-)

The Baby Story...Mostly For the Ladies

2011-05-15T23:30:00.004-06:00

The Before Picture... this is about a week before I delivered... I was so ready!

My story actually begins with an explanation: Belle was born at 39 weeks and weighed 8 lbs 13 oz; apparently she had wide shoulders because she experienced something called shoulder dystocia which means her shoulders got stuck on the way out- I know...ouch right?
Thankfully it was an uncomplicated dystocia meaning she had no injuries or resulting problems (apparently it often causes permanent nerve damage in the neck/shoulder). She was only stuck for about 52 seconds before she was officially born- it was a scary but short experience.

So, my doctors didn't want me to carry this baby past 39 weeks, fearing another risky dystocia.
7:30AM on April 1st (sorry about the ridiculous birth date Parker) Quinn, my mom, Lanie, and I arrived at the hospital.

Fun side note: my nurse was an old friend of mine from high school, Melanie Rice. She was wonderful as a nurse and BONUS she's also an amazing photographer! She photographed the whole labor and delivery for me! I wasn't expecting to like the pictures very much just because births are messy...I definitely felt like a mess and I was oblivious to most of her picture taking. However, of course the pictures are lovely and perfect and now I want her to do that for any future children I may have! You can check them all out in the web album (featured on the blog side bar...don't worry they don't show any of my lady parts;-).

Moving On

By 9:30am they had me checked in and the pitocin was started. I was at a 2 and 70% effaced. Honestly the contractions were pretty weak until 12:30pm when the doctor came in and broke my water; I was dilated 3 cm and 80% effaced.

Interesting side note: this was an interesting experience. The tool the doctor used looked like a crochet hook and it felt like he had hooked a loop of my intestine at first. For a split second I was terrified that he was going to give a good tug and all of my insides were going to come spilling out! Thankfully there was no tug- just a puncture that I couldn't feel and my insides remained intact. Then it just felt like I wet the bed- I have some experience here since I probably wet my bed until I was ten years old (sorry Mom;-).

Moving On

With my water broken my contractions quickly sped up and became intensely painful. I worked through them for an hour, but when the nurse checked me at the end of that hour and I hadn't progressed AT ALL, I requested an epidural.
The drugs took the edge off but I kept them as low as they could go because I wanted to be able to feel as I was pushing (they tell you that's important when your baby might get stuck). With my body no longer fighting the contractions I was ready to push less than an hour and a half later!
It took a few minutes to get the doctor in the room (they hadn't expected the baby to drop to quickly), but then they quickly prepared and I started pushing. After 4 or 5 pushes, and some great coaching from my doctor, his perfect little head popped out and...his shoulders got stuck...so defeating. Thankfully he was only stuck for about 20 seconds. The doctors wiggled him a little while the nurse pushed down on my pubic bone, and I pushed as hard as humanly possibly! Out he came yelling and peeing all over the place in true manly fashion. There were no complications from the dystocia, and his head was perfect (not cone-shaped at all) since he came down the birth canal so quickly. Unfortunately, dropping that quickly caused his face to bruise so his face looked slightly bluish for the first day of his life. When I first saw him I thought the blue face meant he wasn't breathing...it terrified me until I realized he was screaming his head off...not a very funny April Fool's joke.

He was big and beautiful and perfect, and I didn't even have to have stitches!
This little fellow latched on and started nursing right there in the delivery room.
Welcome Parker Lawrence...I love holding you in my arms much more than in my tummy.

The After Picture: the first of at least a million hugs

Belle, meet Parker

2011-04-03T20:45:00.002-06:00

This is the scene:

She was not jealous at all. She was very cuddly, almost too cuddly

Parker Lawrence Hout

2011-04-01T21:38:00.007-06:00

Its a Boy!

Baby Parker Lawrence Hout was Born today at 3:23 p.m. weighing 8 lbs 7 ozs.

After the shoulder distosia (probably not spelled correctly) that we experienced with Belle, we decided to induce labor a week early as to avoid an extra large baby.

After taking an epidural, Parker dropped quickly and Annie progressed rapidly...apparently a bit too rapidly because our boy ended up having some bruising on his face...He just looks tough...like he was in a baby boxing match or something.

We are now just trying to catch up with sleep and rest up for our next challenge...Bringing him home to Belle.

Photo Fun

2011-03-01T16:53:00.004-07:00

Quinn spent some time with Belle while I went visiting teaching on Sunday morning. Apparently she was really into taking pictures because the pair of them filled up the memory card in the camera with cheesy smiles during breakfast:-)
She is such a grown up girl these days- feeding herself with zero help using spoons and forks (and keeping herself and the floor fairly clean;-), taking care of her babies (feeding, wiping their noses, snuggling, etc.), coloring with crayons, pretending to read stories, and learning new words every day. I love my wild girl and I have to admit that she thoroughly wears me out every day... usually by noon;-)

Oh my darling Belle, I hope you are still this happy next month when you are learning to share your mama and dada with your new brother:-)
Belle and I talk a lot about her new brother, unfortunately she still insists that everything blue belongs to Dada. She is going to be a great big sister...even if she doesn't know it yet!

Little Boy Baby Shower

2011-03-01T15:52:00.005-07:00

Last Saturday my sister-in-law, Lanie and my mother-in-law, Janice threw my a Baby Shower! The decor was obviously fabulous:-)

They had fun games and great prizes...

the food looked amazing...

and tasted even better than it looked!

It was so much fun to see so many of my friends and family members:-)

It was also nice to receive so many presents for our little guy- before the shower his entire wardrobe consisted of some white onesies and a pair of yellow socks;-)

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Mall Choo Choo Ride

2011-03-01T15:33:00.004-07:00

We have recently discovered the train in the Provo Mall- Belle loves it! The conductor reminded us a little of the character Ramon from the movie The Proposal- very entertaining sort of fellow:-)

The tickets are 3 dollars each which is a little lame because a 19-month-old obviously cannot ride alone, but it's definitely worth it now and then.

Here she is signing train (thanks Aunt Emily for the Singing Time DVD- we love it!)

Daddy is her riding buddy- it's a great 5-10 minute break for me...this time I got a smoothie and a pretzel and hung out on a bench alone (sort of alone- I am very pregnant)- so peaceful!

Goodbye Baby

2011-03-01T15:20:00.002-07:00

Lately Belle has been into packing up and "leaving". She puts things in a purse or a bag, puts on something pretty (said as "pizzy"): shoes, necklaces, or a hat- you get the idea, and says goodbye. She then walks to the door, pretends to open it, and then comes back and exclaims, "Hi!" since she has obviously arrived at her destination. Sometimes when she leaves she prefers to shut a door behind her...in which case she needs the pot cupboard emptied out (photoed above) or the pantry door opened.

She is extremely adventurous- we can hardly wait to play outside again:-)

Christmas Re-cap

2011-01-16T17:42:00.011-07:00

Quinn and I kicked off the Christmas Season with his work party. Quinn was working for a great and fast-growing company called Security Metrics. The party was fabulous: huge prime rib dinner, dancing, games, raffle, etc., held in the UVU event center. He has since left the company for another opportunity (more information to follow).

My parents brought us to Chicago for Christmas this year- what a party! My brother Jake and his family and my sister Emily and her family were also there for the festivities:-) We went caroling, acted out the Nativity (pictured above), played games, went shopping, eat A LOT, opened presents, shared some sicknesses, and had a fabulous time.
Belle had a blast watching and chasing her cousins- she came home feeling very grown-up and she's been very into tea parties and learning new words.

The night we made it home to Utah, Belle opened her presents from us...

I think Quinn and I enjoyed watching Belle open her presents more than she enjoyed opening them:-)

Here she is in her new hat and mittens, holding a new baby, waving hello to her new train:-)

We got to celebrate Christmas with Quinn's family too... it was a very merry Christmas for us this year;-)

Quinn had a lot of fun with his brothers...

Belle was ridiculously spoiled for the third time and loved every minute of attention from her grandparents, great grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Family Pictures and Update

2011-01-04T16:57:00.005-07:00

We were able to convince Laura to make a house call and take our family pictures again this year, and once again she did an amazing job! Belle was a little more difficult to work with this Christmas (and such a ham!), but thankfully this wasn't Laura's first rodeo and she was able to get some great shots:-)

Belle is still growing like a weed- she'll be 1 and a half this month and she's already wearing size 2T in everything. She is very into tea parties, and she loves drinking out of tea cups instead of her no-spill sippee cups (such a hassle). She loves music and dancing, pretending to read books, taking care of her baby dolls, and playing with all of my cosmetics. She tries to say new words every day, and loves helping me with EVERYTHING! She turned into a toddler over night, with very strong opinions and decent communication skills (some words and sign language). Her favorite person is her Uncle Jake- she follows him, shows off for him, steals his food, sits on him, and generally assumes he exists to be her best friend.

I am finally done with my Finance Degree (I actually have four more credits that I'm taking Independent Study right now, but I'm done with class on campus:-) However, I am holding on to my fabulous maternity coverage and BYU Health Insurance as long as possible, so I'll walk this August at the end of the school year. I'm looking forward to having a couple of years at home with my kiddos before I delve back into the world of personal finance. I'll most likely make my come back teaching financial management classes in the community until I get my CFA and build a client base so I can work from home.

If you can believe it, Quinn is even busier than usual these days. He is still plugging away at his undergraduate business degree (remember he took off 2 years from school to serve a mission so he's not far off the pace;-). He recently changed his emphasis from Economics to Finance, and he is still set to graduate at the end of this year. Quinn is also the money make! He had been working for a web design company for the past two years, but near the end of last year he switched companies to work for an up-and-coming commerce security company. The story goes on that he was recruited by another web design company based in India, and went to work for them this month! I'll take this opportunity to brag on him a little, because he is pretty amazing: he is the regional director of sales, he opened and is managing a small office here in Utah, and the VP of the company is coming out at the end of the month to help him expand! I'm extremely proud of him and all of his hard work:-)
In all of his free time Quinn plays with Belle (Saturday is Daddy Day every week...I sleep in and take bubble baths), plays basketball once a week, and watches every football game possible!

We'll be welcoming a son the first week of April: no name has been decided on yet, but his middle name will be Lawrence after Quinn's middle name, and the current front runners for a first name are Parker, Joseph, and Robert (we also like the name Jake, but there are already 2 Jakes in our house!).

Merry Christmas!

2011-01-04T16:54:00.002-07:00

This year's Christmas Card:-)

It's a Boy!

2010-11-29T18:14:00.003-07:00

Just follow the tiny arrow folks...baby number two is a little brother:-)

Little Brother looks very healthy: heart, brain, spine, lips, organs, fingers, toes, etc. He's measuring five days smaller than expected (21 weeks and 1 day instead of 6 days like we originally estimated), but they're leaving the due date on April 6th. I was very happy to hear that's he's sizable and healthy since I've been so much smaller with him than I was with Belle. The ultrasound was a whole new experience since this is apparently a very calm baby- he gave a big yawn and stretched once. During Belle's ultrasound she was doing jumping jacks and she kept punching the ultrasound wand...I love my wild girl and I'm ready for a calm one;-)

Belle (who happens to be highly possessive of me, and has a hard time when Quinn tickles me or picks me up) did not like the ultrasound very much, but thankfully her daddy was there to snuggle her. Quinn couldn't stop smiling when we found out the gender (seriously all the way out of the parking lot until I couldn't see him anymore). He claimed our little man was making the Heisman pose in the womb;-)

Isabelle Attends University

2010-11-04T22:25:00.003-06:00

Today I had all of the best intentions of attending my classes...one nap, one fussy baby, one messy lunch time, and a few diaper and clothes changes later(all of this was for Belle...except the nap- we shared that) I missed my last class. Defeated I took Belle with me to BYU's campus turn in a paper. On our way back to the car I remembered my Professor taught one more section after mine! Of course Belle and I went, and even though I didn't have her diaper bag of toys and snacks we lasted an entire hour! YIPPEE! Belle was so great that as a reward I took her to play at a really fun park with lots of kids. We kept playing until Daddy could come and meet us after he finished work- Work Hard and then Play Hard, that's the motto in our family:-)

Happy Hout-oween!!

2010-11-04T22:07:00.005-06:00

I carved the awesome Haunted House! I was so impressed! Quinn's pumpkin was nice too;-)

Yep- two chickens and a farmer...so fun:-)

Belle was pretty nervous about her giant chicken daddy holding her...birds of a feather, Belle

Chicken Feet!

We had a little Halloween get together on Saturday night- we had friends and family come share some treat and play Rock Band. Belle had a little friend to play with too- a nine month old boy named Alden (she kept insisting he was Baby Jakey grown up for one night just to play with her;-)

We even invited a few trick-or-treaters in out of the sleet for hot cider...fun night:-) Also, Uncle Nolan deserves an honorable mention for all of his cooking contributions on Saturday (breakfast potatoes, Ranch flavored pumpkin seeds, and pumpkin cookies...and he put the pizza in the oven)...he was pretty awesome:-)

Belle helped herself to candy whenever she saw it (even though she had no idea what it was)... this was actually at the party at our church...she's never been shy;-)

Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-04T21:53:00.002-06:00

We went to the pumpkin patch a couple of times this year because I loved watching Belle enjoying the festivities! She loved the corn pit with Grandma Janice.

Unfortunately she inherited her mother's personality and wouldn't play in it until she felt that the corn was adequately cleaned from the surrounding hay bails and returned to the corn pit...this went on for quite some time, but I understood her need so I didn't try to rush the process;-)

The best smiles of the day were reserved for the baby goats!

Belle had A LOT to say to these little fellows:-)

She almost convinced this out to come out and play;-)

Grandpa helped her find a pumpkin just her size! It turns out she prefers green to orange- whatever...fun adventure:-)

Big Sister Belle

2010-10-05T23:59:00.001-06:00

That's right folks! Baby two is on the way- due April 6th:-)

Boise State vs. Oregon State

2010-10-05T23:37:00.000-06:00

Do I look good or what?

Last weekend we drove up to Boise State to cheer on Uncle Byron in his big game. He played great and we had a blast partying with the Houts:-)

Belle stayed at the stadium for the first half of the game and slept great for the second half- much easier traveling with a 14 month old than with a 10 month old.

New Sweet Boots and Also a Ridiculous Wasp Story

2010-10-05T23:05:00.000-06:00

Oh My Gosh!!! Check out these sweet boots!!

Hot pink (maybe purple) and she loves them! She brings them to me, sets them on my lap, and holds up her feet one at at time until they're on:-)

Little known fact: this is a picture of Belle picking a wasp off of the deck railing. Seconds later I realized what happened when she shook the wasp off of her thumb (the one she sucks). I am pleased to tell everyone that a paste of baking soda and water (and a little ice) will draw out the poision and bring down the swelling in less than an hour, and if you distract your one-year-old with a show and cookies you might be able to treat the sting for at least half of the time you are supposed to.
Also, as a side note, the wasp was still alive because it didn't lose its stinger (it turns out wasp's stingers are not barbed on the end like bee's so they can sting you multiple times- I'm somewhat of an expert now). It was just sitting peacefully on the deck where she shook it. Incensed, I charged outside, grabbed the broom, and smashed the living daylights out of that wasp... a good six or seven times... then I turned around to go back in the house and realized my neighbors (who had snuck outside as I was treating the sting) were silently watching me from their deck 10 feet away (just far enough away that I'm sure they couldn't see the wasp). Without a word I put the broom away and went inside. Some days are just like that.

Farm Country for Belle

2010-10-05T21:56:00.000-06:00

Two weekends ago our neighbors invited us to visit Farm Country at Thanksgiving Point. Even though we didn't get to go with our new friends (due to a leaky diaper, wet bed, and a difficult morning in general), we decided to go just the two of us and check it out.

Belle's favorite part was undoubtedly the pony ride!

She loved to pat the pony's neck and make the "click, click" noise with her tongue.

She also loved the baby bunnies:-)

We loved it so much we brought Daddy back the next day for another visit.

We did the wagon ride the second time since mommy had reenforcements (2 to 1 parents to baby ratio).

Wild Times

2010-09-16T16:26:00.001-06:00

Well, all of August and half of September just flew by our family and left a score of changes in their wake! Quinn and I started school again, and I had my 24th birthday (I'm almost a grown-up). We moved in to a new town home with Lanie and her Jake's and started attending a new Ward!

Belle and I got a bicycle for my birthday- it is perhaps the funnest toy either of us have! The best parts about our rides are the down hills (or when I can get peddling fast enough to create a little wind) because Belle exclaims, "Weeeeee," over and over from the back seat:-)

I was surprised the Sunday before my birthday with a slew of unexpected and fancy presents (including a sewing machine, perfume, and a new purple sweater!). Belle and I immediately had to try the bike- don't worry she has a helmet now;-)

Above is a picture of all of my lastest wishes about to come true:-)

Hout-Hunter Family Reunion

2010-08-09T11:40:00.001-06:00

Last weekend we were in California at Lake Almanor with Quinn's family.

Just the Houts...we were missing Kurt and Nichole (Quinn's oldest brother who is in the army, stationed in Arizona right now)

Belle was the only little one in attendance, but I don't think she noticed (she had more than her fair she of attention, and could always find a buddy to take her into the water at the lake:-)

All the cousins

Quinn with the ladies:-)

Awesome-chewing on straw. I didn't get the chance to see this one live- which is probably the reason we have the picture.

Isabelle Katherine's 1st Birthday!

2010-07-26T10:00:00.000-06:00

Belle turned 1!!She woke up to a wonderland of purple and yellow and had a blast hitting and kicking balloons all day:-)Her daddy and Uncles Nolan and Byron were the lead decorators. Don't let their burly physique fool you- they can twirl streamers and cut ribbon with the best of them;-)Quinn's mom (Belle's grandma Tammy) was even able to come from California to take part in the festivities- we miss you Mima!

As with all birthday parties, the best part was the cake... Belle was a little nervous about it at first...

but that didn't last long:-)

and a sugar attack quickly ensued.

She literally had a mountain of presents twice her size...

which she took her time exploring over the next few days.

Thanks to everyone for making the first birthday of our little rock star so special:-)

Berry Beautiful

2010-07-24T23:32:00.000-06:00

Belle's favorite fruits this summer have been cherries...the other day her daddy decided to help her apply some cherry lipstick- she felt VERY fancy:-)

Second Trip to the Zoo

2010-07-24T22:47:00.000-06:00

We had our second family Zoo-outing. Belle was way more interested (and awake) this time around:-)

She loved the elephants...

And the giraffes. She also liked the Ostriches, but they were just too scary looking to take pictures of.

We rode the carousel...

Belle liked riding best with mama:-)

Hangin with Mr. Cooper

2010-07-24T22:16:00.000-06:00

So, although Cooper looks fairly ferocious (not to mention annoyed) in this little clip, the visit actually went extremely well. Cooper came with my mama during the second week of June and stayed with our family while she went to Virginia for a week. Cooper adopted us as a nice little substitute family- patiently waiting under Belle's highchair for scraps, and silently pushing me off of my bed at night with sweet sweltering snuggles.
By the end of his visit Cooper was sitting next to Belle and letting her play with his ears. She learned to say his name and looked for him every morning for a week after they left:-)

June Recap and Belle's 1st Spaghetti

2010-07-24T22:00:00.001-06:00

Here is our beautiful and hilarious baby smiling for the camera as she enjoys her first self-fed spaghetti:-)

Our camera was misplaced for most of June, but just to recap: Quinn enjoyed his 24th birthday on the 19th and Father's Day the next day. He received some fancy gifts including a full set of new golf clubs, a driver and a putter, new golf shoes, golf balls and tees, a new motor cycle helmet, and a kitchen sink...the last item was just a line, but he received pretty much everything else (thanks to everyone who contributed to the birthday fund:-)

We were also lucky enough to have visits from lots of family...We miss you Sister Ambs, Nana Charlotte, Auntie Charie, Auntie Lauren, cousins Madeline, Katherine, and Elisabeth, and Mima Tammy! Having Uncle Nolan living closer helps, but our house just feels too empty... I guess we should move into a townhouse with Uncle Jake, Aunt Lanie, and cousin baby Jakey (more news on this topic to follow in September;-).

Beach Vacation

2010-06-20T00:45:00.000-06:00

We spent the first week of June on Top Sail Island in North Carolina with my family.

Traveling there with our 10 month old Belle was tiring and hilarious...

These are shots from the plane ride...even though she is a pretty great traveler, we were all exhausted by the time we arrived.

Our house was right on the beach, and although I neglected to catch it with the camera, you know Belle ate sand and splashed in the waves:-)

13 cousins (6 and younger) and 14 adults in one huge house made for a crazy week!

Belle assumed she was one of the big kids and she came home saucier than ever;-)

We were spoiled with great food (at the house and at sea food resturants near by), great company, nightly family devotionals, and of course the sound of the ocean in the backround all week:-) New tradition to vacation at Top Sail? I think so!

Belle Believes in Standing for Something...every time she wakes up:-)

2010-06-19T21:52:00.000-06:00

Since the end of May Belle has been greeting me with a standing ovation after every nap:-)

The first time she did it this is how I found her- she had pulled the net from her canopy around the front of her crib and pressed her face against it and cried as pathetically as possible. She started laughing when I came in and smiled at her- I think she knew how silly she was being;-)

She closed her eyes everytime the flash went off, so this is as close as we came to eyes open:-)

Grandpa Kurt and Grandma Janice's Anniversay

2010-06-19T21:39:00.000-06:00

Quinn's Dad and Step-mom Janice had their anniversary in May... and it was a special day for Belle because she tried frosting for the first time!

She stole a candle...

Gracefully...

And she loved it:-)
Thanks for sharing Grandpa Kurt and Grandma Janice- we love you!

Check Me Hout!

2010-05-18T15:34:00.001-06:00

This is the Rookie card Nolan gave Belle when she was born...Well, Uncle Nolan graduated from The University of Idaho last weekend, so of course she wanted to return the favor;-)

We made him a special gift to mark the occasion...Belle's Rookie Card!Nolan, congratulations on graduation and getting engaged to such a wonderful woman- we love you Marjorie (and Nolan)!

Nature Walk

2010-05-09T22:03:00.000-06:00

We went on a family walk to Bridal Veil Falls...even though Quinn and I were dressed for summer weather it turns out Belle had to have a coat and a lap blanket because of her over-protective mother;-)

We caught Belle during a quiet moment while she was pondering the beauty of the world...

It really was a gorgeous day- there are only a couple of days that feel like Spring before Summer sets in, so we do our best to take advantage of them:-)

Also...Quinn got glasses! So fancy! What do you think?!

Lanie's Baby Shower

2010-05-09T21:49:00.000-06:00

On Saturday we had Lanie's Baby Shower! Missing from the spread above is the awesome Cold Stone Cheese Cake Ice Cream Cake Jake got for us with his discount- Fabulous (don't worry the sandwiches are from Jimmy Johns also courtesy of Jake's discount:-)!

We played Nursery Rhyme Jeopardy (my favorite), The Price is Right, Baby Bingo, and of course Guess the Belly Size:-)

Here are some lovely ladies enjoying the cake...Lanie most of all;-)

Even Belle got into the festivities- what a fancy mess:-)

Masquerade

2010-05-09T21:45:00.001-06:00

Last Wednesday my cousin threw his wife a surprise 30th Birthday Party... a Masquerade Party!!

Quinn and I had a blast dressing up and celebrating with friends and family- Good Work Davy and Happy Birthday Hillary!! We love you guys:-)

Chicago Visit

2010-05-09T21:26:00.000-06:00

The day after I finished school Belle and I flew to Chicago to visit my family! Will (above) is Belle's cousin she was blessed with- he is an awesome little man!

Belle had a pretty hard time while we were there- she is used to being the only one making noise and I guess she missed he daddy and her bad because she pretty much refused to sleep for five days- yuk! We came home early:-/

Haha- oh well! Here I captured one of the rare occasions she let someone else hold her... there is a good chance she thought that was me (my mom and two sisters sound and look a lot like me- it turns out that is very confusing for a teething, sleep-deprived, 9 month old;-).

Cooper (and Aunt Charie who wasn't available for a photo;-) was probably Belle's favorite part of the trip... She followed him around the house trying to step on him from the moment we walked in the door! Haha- sorry Coop! She laughed and snuck him bites of her dinner when he put his paws up on her chair to beg, so I guess they were friends after all;-)

Boise Spring Game Road Trip

2010-05-09T21:16:00.000-06:00

Since we got Belle her forward facing car seat she has become a fabulous little traveler:-) So, we decided to drive out to Boise and see Quinn's brother play in the Boise State Spring Game...

Long Story Short: we were stranded in the Twin Falls Costco getting our tires replaced for a good four hours and made it to Boise not even five minutes after the game ended:-/ The face in the picture above did not last as long as we hoped, but Belle was a good little trooper through the wild trip. We had fun visiting with family and friends while we were there... next time we'll get there in time for the football too!

Dinosaur Museum

2010-05-09T21:07:00.000-06:00

One Saturday last month we decided to go on a family outing to the Aquarium. When we got there the line to get in was wrapped around the building...No Thank You! So we went to the Dinosaur Museum instead and had a blast:-)

Quinn kept trying to feed Belle to the big dinosaurs...

not cool Dad!

Belle just liked the little guys best...

and the huge shark of course:-)

Easter Dresses

2010-05-09T20:54:00.001-06:00

I clearly took a hiatus from Blogging last month with final projects, papers, presentations, and exams keeping me busy while I finished school. But, now I'm back in the game and wouldn't want to leave out the fun we had last month!

Belle had an awesome Easter basket, Easter eggs, and another Easter Dress, but all of those pictures have mysteriously vanished...que sara sara I suppose! We had a wonderful Easter dinner with family and friends at Quinn's Dad's house (big thanks to Janice for our Easter basket- I only recently finished my candy;-). Here are the pictures of the family dressed for church in our Easter Best!

Awesome Belle! She still loves Mama best;-)

Strawberry Bald Baby

2010-03-23T15:10:00.001-06:00

Our Beautiful Belle has graduated to 18 month clothing (she just turned 8 months last week). Here she is featured in her Strawberry outfit- doing a dance in her fancy skirt:-)

I've been trying to convince her for months that crawling would be a lot of fun, but she recently discovered that walking (with assistance) is where it's at. Every time I try to sit her down she locks her legs and arches her back- it's only a matter of time now before she figures out she can prance around without any help from her mama:-)

No matter how excited she is to walk, she is always more excited to fly with her daddy... two peas in a pod:-)

This is the response I got when I asked Belle if she would like a drink or a snack...actions speak louder than words I guess. I'm so glad I still had the camera on hand so I could capture the weary look she gave me as she gulped down her water.

St. Patrick's Day Green Dinner

2010-03-23T13:51:00.001-06:00

In honor of St. Patrick's Day I made a fancy green dinner: chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, pickles, and pears (and green milk). Quinn wanted to continue his family tradition of corned beef and cabbage for dinner, but I told him we needed to start our own tradition because I certainly wouldn't be eating corned beef (and I hope Belle never encounters that salty fatty meat).
I guess I really shouldn't have knocked his tradition because the one I tried to start may have been worse.

Bah-ha-ha-ha-ha

I know what you're thinking...gross right? It turns out green is not an appetizing color. Also these foods just don't go very well together.

Quinn and Jake indulged me and emptied their plates...I couldn't eat all of mine.
It was pretty gross and pretty funny- Happy St. Patrick's Day:-)

Happy Anniversary on March 8th

2010-03-11T23:27:00.000-07:00

Two years have flown by and have been jam-packed full of life! School, road trips, jobs, houses, cars, family vacations, and a daughter of our own... What Wonderfully Wild Times We've had Together:-)
But, marriage was not the beginning of our journey together...

I moved to Colorado and met Quinn when we were 14, and he has been my best friend since we were 16... that means he has had 8 solid years of crazy-Annie partying! Lots of kissing, cleaning, talking, singing, hitting, teasing, eating, dreaming. Not a lot of sleeping...or compromising...I'm working on it.

Yes, these photos were taken in Highschool- before our Junior or Senior Homecoming Dance (we can't remember). I miss Quinn's curls, and he misses mine...but pretty much all the other good qualities we had then have only improved with time;-)

Bitter Bars

2010-03-11T22:35:00.000-07:00

It turns out these are called Biter Biscuits, but I am studying Finance in the Business School not Reading in the English School...oops! Thanks to my impatience with everyday-reading (I generally read the first couple of letters and guess the rest), and Quinn's good-natured teasing... Belle's new favorite snack will forever be called "Bitter Bars" in our house:-)

She can eat them all by herself...which is a requirement nowadays for my independent girl:-)

They are too short and hard to choke her. And best of all...

They are fabulously messy!

Too bad she can't clean up by herself just yet...I guess she needs her mama's help for a few more months after all;-)

March means Moved In!

2010-03-11T22:11:00.000-07:00

We did it!
We moved out and cleaned our old house by the end of February and we've been moving into our new house a little at a time. I feel so blessed and very spoiled in my pretty little townhouse:-) Below is a quick picture tour for those who won't be able to visit anytime soon...Kitchen: love the floors, huge fridge, disposal, newer cupboards

Love the large eating area and sliding door to the back.

It is hilarious that there is a bathroom in my kitchen, but I love having a downstairs bathroom (and a downstairs for that matter).

Love the living room with carpet for Belle...

She also sings its praises;-)

Yes, our house has stairs;-)

Belle's Room: love the double pane windows and insulated walls...cozy and quiet:-)

Although not featured in the pictures...Belle has her own closet! (every room has a closet- heaven!)

Our Bedroom: LOVE my little walk-in closet, and that Quinn has his own closet (not a walk-in). Love that Quinn helped me convert my homemade closet into a homemade dressing table.

I didn't feature our guest room because it is still full of boxes, but I promise we'll get it put together if anyone is willing to come visit!

February Update

2010-02-16T01:51:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't taken any photos in a couple of months (eek!) I decided to post some more of our favorites for the Christmas shoot we did with my amazingly talented photographer friend Laura- Thanks again Laura!The news is true: the Houts are upgrading to a 3 bedroom 2 bath! Yay! Even though we're just moving across town, we will miss our first home- we've loved our beautiful old house, our amazing neighbors, and our kind landlords. But our family is not getting any smaller here, and we're starting to feel the squeeze of one bathroom;-)

I am back in school (as you might have guessed from my recent lack of posts on the Blog). Already this month I have had a term project, midterm exams, and food poisoning. And our possesions are currently split pretty much half-and-half between our two houses...lol what a party this month has been so far:-)

Belle will be seven months old on the 17th...wild! She is quite an active girl:-) She loves rolling and skooting all over the place, but still no crawling (my back and knees are hoping that will start before 8 months). At her 6 month check-up she was 100th percentile for weight and 90th for height again, and as healthy as a baby can be:-) In the last month she has become a pro at drinking from her sippy cup by herself, eating bites of anything I will put on her highchair tray (current favorite = animal crackers), and saying Da Da Da (which sometimes comes out as Dad or Daddy- so adorable)!

Quinn is working hard, playing on two different basketball teams every week, and counting down the days till Spring brings weather warm enough to start riding the Motorcycle!

That is the latest from Team Hout... I don't expect to Blog again very soon... Love to all!

Belle and Her Daddy

2010-01-03T00:21:00.000-07:00

Belle loves playing with her Daddy and taking care of him as much as possible:

Tall, tall, taller than Dad!

No Daddy, cover your mouth when you sneeze!

P.S. Belle wanted to give a shout out to her Auntie Sophie: Happy New Years! Someday you'll have to teach Belle to use a cell phone like yours:-)

Happy New Year!

2010-01-03T00:06:00.001-07:00

Welcome 2010!!Quinn and I spent New Years with his family in Utah... Belle loves all her Hout grandparents, uncles, and aunt...she would love a Hout cousin to visit with during future holidays (hint hint Kurt and Nichole;-)

Merry Christmas

2010-01-02T23:50:00.000-07:00

We spent Christmas in Colorado with my family this year...it was magical to be with my nieces and nephew on Christmas Day! Since Quinn and I really didn't have presents to wrap the night before we decided to take on a building project...

We put together a craft Dollhouse with about a million pieces and instructions to just use glue... it turned out that we also needed a saw and we only had a few hours so we used nails and wood glue but even so this is as far as we got!
Hopefully my brother and his kids will have fun finishing the rest and maybe my sister-in-law can help with the decorating;-)
We had a blast and we were exceptionally proud of our work...but we were very tired the next morning!

Oh Christmas Tree!

2009-12-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

Christmas is coming:-)

As it turned out, I was way more excited about showing Belle the tree than she was about seeing it;-) She did evetually try to touch the lights...maybe she'll feel more of the Christmas Spirit next year;-)

Our Belle Hop

2009-11-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

Belle has started a new exercise program in anticipation of lots of holiday eating...

which apparently will begin with her jumper;-)

A Solid Experience

2009-11-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

Belle tried some delicious rice cereal with rice milk on Tuesday night! It was a success and the experience has been repeated every night since:-)

She waits fairly patiently in her high chair while Quinn and I eat dinner, and then it's her turn!!

The Bellerina BEllephant

2009-11-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!!

Her trunk is the best part;-)

Enough Pictures Mom!!!

Fall Fun

2009-11-12T11:13:00.001-07:00

This post is mostly an update for all of Belle's Grandparents;-)
These are a few of Belle's favorite things! Walks...

Tummy Time...

Winnie the Pooh...

And Quinnie the Pooh (look at those cheeks)!!!

Belle's New Hat

2009-10-19T01:48:00.000-06:00

Shopping in Park City meant shopping for Belle, and here is our favorite find!

This is the first hat of Belle's that Quinn likes... here is the profile shot.

Then her "Dejected Look"

This is Belle being pensive, however she prefers to put her fist in her mouth rather than under her chin while she thinks

My personal favorite is where she looks down her nose at all the other babies who do not have hats as beautiful as hers;-)

Such a happy girl:-)

Visit to Park City

2009-10-19T01:32:00.000-06:00

Two weeks ago, like we do every six months, our little family went to spend the night in a hotel for a weekend-get-away watching General Conference, but the hotel rates were through the roof in Salt Lake this year! So we changed locations to Park City and braved the chilly weather to do a little shopping at the outlets between sessions:-)
Belle loved trying out her new coat from her Grandpa Kurt and Grandma Janice...

But when she tasted it...

She decided it tasted funny, so instead...

She opted to hang out in the hotel and catch up on her day time television;-)

Nannie Comes for a Visit

2009-10-19T01:18:00.000-06:00

Three weeks ago Quinn's grandmother came to Provo for a visit! Belle adored her and they spent many afternoons together while I ran errands and enjoyed a little break from 24/7 Mommy-duty:-) Carol was amazing...she did dishes and laundry, and even cooked dinner! I went through Nana-withdrawals the week after she left;-)

Of course we watch the Boise State game together!

And we took Nana up to an international art exhibit at the conference center in Salt Lake.

This may be the funniest memory I've ever caught on camera... I counted up to three before taking the picture and right when I said three Belle let out some very loud poop! Nana was shocked and Quinn thought it was cool.

We were all laughing when I re-took the picture:-)

Pretty in Pink

2009-09-20T23:31:00.000-06:00

Here is the beautiful Belle all ready for church in a pink summer dress and bonnet...

what a girl!

First Zoo Trip

2009-09-20T23:15:00.001-06:00

Quinn, Lanie, Belle, and I went to Hogle Zoo on Saturday afternoon:-)

Belle loved the elephants; I think it was because...

she could relate;-)

Quinn loved the orangutans; I think it was because...

he could relate;-)

As usual Belle sealed her approval of the adventure with a nap;-)

Boise State Football's Biggest and Smallest Fans

2009-09-20T23:01:00.000-06:00

Last Friday Belle and her Grandpa Hout donned their Boise gear and got together to watch Byron Hout, Boise's #1 Defensive End, cream Fresno State!

Belle can't wait to see her Uncle Byron play live in Boise!

Temple Square

2009-09-18T12:48:00.000-06:00

Jake and Lanie (not to confused with Charie Lanie) arrived last Thursday and we've been busy helping them get established. We decided to go up to Temple Square on Sunday- it's Lanie's first time in Utah...I can't wait for winter; this year Belle and Lanie will be seeing snow for the first time!!

Cross Country Adventure

2009-09-18T11:40:00.001-06:00

Our little family had its first cross country Adventure! It all started with an airplane ride to Washington D.C. Belle mercifully slept through the entire ride and it was all I could do to keep her awake enough to eat during take off and landing;-)

She even slept through pooping and getting her diaper changed on the airplane!!

We had a blast staying with Joey and Heather's family, visiting my oldest and dearest friends, and visiting the city...

Belle continued to sleep through site seeing...

and the car ride to Chicago!

We spent a day site seeing with my family in Chicago.

We all went on a boat tour to see the beautiful city... they don't call it the Windy City for nothing;-)

Once again Belle slept through the excitement...

In fact the only time Belle was awake was when we stopped to sleep at the hotels;-)
We had a blast and we're happy to be home! Thanks to everyone for the great visits and the fun memories:-)

Uncle Nolan Comes to Town

2009-08-21T23:30:00.001-06:00

Quinn's brother Nolan paid Belle (and us) a visit last week!! He talked some of his friends into driving down to Provo from Boise and was officially the first Hout Uncle to meet our girl:-)
Nolan brought a beautiful outfit from Quinn's grandma for Belle, and he also brought a little present of his own. Nolan gave Belle his Barry Bonds rookie card! At first I was a little skeptical not understanding that this was no ordinary baseball card (I was disappointed that it didn't come with bubble gum- sorry Nolan). However after Quinn explained the card's significance to me, we were both touched by the gesture- I can't wait for Belle to be old enough to ask her Uncle Nolan all about it:-)

Belle's Blessing

2009-08-21T23:09:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, August 8th Quinn blessed Belle! In our Faith babies are given a special blessing in which they are named and blessed as the Spirit directs. The blessing Quinn pronounced on Belle was so beautiful, blessing her to grow up healthy and happy, to always feel the love of her families and friends, and serve and influence many people for good as she grows.

My sister Emily and her husband were in town and Chris blessed their son William on the same day! We did the blessings at Chris's parents' house in Saratoga Springs, overlooking Utah Lake. It was a beautiful day:-)

No, Emily and I did not coordinate our dresses...we're sisters- that should say it all! It was so great to have her and her family in Utah for a whole month this summer:-)

Cousins! Belle and I (pregnant) stayed at the hospital with Emily and Will after he was born, and Emily and Will were at the hospital with us when Belle was born! I have a feeling these two will be close friends;-)

Baby Belle at Home

2009-08-05T15:06:00.000-06:00

If you look closely you'll the caption on Belle's shirt says "Daddy's Girl"
(FYI- this is a newborn outfit and the onesie didn't fit her so we just tucked it into the pants;-)

I left Quinn and Belle like this is to take a much needed shower... Quinn came in later to tell me he woke up to Belle cuddled against his face trying to suck on his nose! That's our hungry girl!

Belle had her two-week check-up last Friday...the doctor says she's pretty much perfect! She gained a whole pound in two weeks, which puts her in the 90th percentile for weight at 9 pounds 13 ounces. (other stats: 75th percentile for head circumference, and 50th percentile for length- although I don't believe he stretched her very well because he said she was still only 20 inches long)
Our girl is Healthy and Happy...and a Great Eater!

Home At Last!

2009-07-20T18:48:00.000-06:00

After countless tests, shots, checkups, and hospital meals, we were finally able to bring Baby Belle home. She must have been very worn out by all of the excitement because as soon as we walked out of the hospital doors she was out for quite a long time.

When we walked through the doors we were hit with the sweltering heat of our non-air conditioned home. After sweating all day, we decided that we better get an air conditioner so we hopped on craigslist and got the first one we could find...after a quick installation, it became much more comfortable.

Isabelle is doing great... she is still sleeps and eats quite a bit and is getting cuter and cuter by the day. She is a very happy and well behaved little girl!

P.S. I added more photos to the Picasa Album (link in post below) I will continue to update it with new photos so check back again!

Welcome Belle

2009-07-18T12:58:00.001-06:00

Before we get into the juicy stuff I have to reveal that this post is being written by a guest blogger Quinn a.k.a. "Dad". All attempts at humor or frivolity are made without the supervision of Annie. Also, I recognize that most people just want to see pictures so I created an album for in picasa here is the link: http://picasaweb.google.com/QuintenHo/BabyBelleSBirthday?feat=directlink

July 17th 2009 at 5:13 a.m. we welcomed our daughter Isabelle Katherine Hout into the world. We checked in at 11:00 the night before and after six hours of labor and attempts at the seemingly impossible task of pushing her out, we heard the first cries from our baby girl.

As she was being pushed out, her shoulders were somehow caught and took about a minute longer to come out after her head. This caused her to have a harder time transitioning to breathing and she had to spend a couple of hours in the N.I.C.U. before they let us have her. From my perspective, never having any sisters, never talking much about pregnancy and labor, and having just about as little knowledge on the subject as possible, it was the most amazing (and scary) miracle ever. She weighed in at 8 pounds and 13 oz. and was about 20" long.

Now that we have her in our room we are finding that she is a very hungry baby...She wants to eat about once an hour (which is characteristic of most Houts). Other hobbies include sleeping, crying, and enjoying the occasional bowel movement. We will be here for another night and then we will be able to take her home.

We received beautiful flowers and goodies from friends and family and we want to thank you for your support and love. Come and see her when you can!

Bountiful Baby Shower

2009-07-15T13:52:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday my girlfriend Sarah hosted a lovely shower for me and our baby girl (who shall remain nameless until we can see her;-)!!

Lots of family and friends came to shower me with gifts, advice, and support:-)

Above are the side and front views of me during one of the games we played: Guess How Big My Belly Is. Even though everyone over-estimated (by a lot) I decided to take it as a compliment...the rest of me is probably just really small so it makes me belly look bigger;-)

Here is the swimsuit Quinn's Grandma sent... adorable:-)

Here is the quilt my grandma made (with the help of my aunt Emily).... so sweet:-)

Thanks to everyone for all the love and support! I finally feel like we're ready for this baby... now if someone could just let her know we're ready I would REALLY appreciate it;-)

4th of July- Weekend of BBQs

2009-07-15T13:40:00.000-06:00

Quinn and I went to three BBQs over the weekend of the 4th!
First on Friday we went to Quinn's buddy Jeff's house with all of his work friends.
Second on Saturday we met our friends in Salt Lake for a BBQ in the park (pictured above: Quinn and Ben split a tri-tip steak...after eating all the brauts we brought from costco...gag).
Finally on Sunday Quinn and I had a BBQ at our house with our neighbors, Jake (my brother), and his friends.

So much potato salad and watermelon... it's great to be an American;-)

Baby Update

2009-07-04T01:49:00.000-06:00

I had a doctor's appointment this week, but no more progress, just more growth!

I'm fifty percent effaced and dilated 1cm.

Quinn decided to get creative with his camera... honestly I feel pretty huge... I'm ready when she is!!

The New Screen Door

2009-07-04T01:28:00.000-06:00

With the days getting hotter, and our house having no air conditioning, it is vital to have as much air flow as possible during the cool evenings... so we decided to build a screen door:-) Our door is larger (both in length and height) than standard front doors so it was a bit of a task: hammering, drilling, painting, staining, and sawing.

The end result is pretty wonderful (thanks mostly to Quinn). We open our windows and door at night and lots of cool air comes in, but the bugs stay out! So far our house has stayed pretty cool during the days...we'll see if it lasts another two months;-)

Quinn got a little carried away with the masks I got to protect against fumes; here is his ode to Judaism...

and Piratism...

and Bunnism (I was less than amused).

Quinn's Birthday and Father's Day

2009-07-04T01:10:00.000-06:00

Quinn turned 23!!
He had a delicious Rocky Road ice cream cake from Cold Stone to celebrate:-)

Quinn informed me this year that he doesn't like Birthday Parties (that would have been nice to know last year), so we had an open house and 15-20 of our friends and family dropped by to wish him Happy Birthday and sample the cake:-)

Two days later was Father's Day... Quinn's first:-)

This Willow Tree statue seemed approriate... he's going to make a marvelous father any day now:-)

The Sunday Cake Bake

2009-07-04T00:55:00.000-06:00

A few Sundays ago Master Bakers Quinn and Jake decided to create a delicious treat.

They searched online for the most tempting recipe...

and combined their manly baking skills to produce a beautiful cake!

Too bad it was pretty gross... lol oh well, good work gentlemen!

We Have a Nursery!

2009-05-31T18:11:00.000-06:00

On Saturday Quinn and I drove up to my cousin's house in Kaysville... Tara and her husband loaded up our Civic with every wonderful thing a baby could need!

The lovely crib set featured here is one my mom made for my niece Paige, and the beautiful crocheted blanket at the head of the crib was made by Janice...thanks Mom, Janice and Paige!

The crib and matching changing table are practically in perfect condition- thanks Tara!

Here is the rocking recliner Nana brought us last weekend...Thanks Nana!
Really I have to thank lots of people...Amelia started the sharing when she lent me her baby bath, door bouncer, bijorn, and tons of baby and maternity clothes! Emily and Lauren joined in with more clothes- we've really seen an outpouring of generosity every step of the way...Thank you to everyone- between school and work and the rest of life I would never have been so close to being ready for this baby to come without all the love and support:-)

Dad and Janice's Wedding

2009-05-31T17:33:00.000-06:00

Over Memorial Day weekend Quinn and I road-tripped to Eagle, CO with his grandparents, little brother, and his brother's girlfriend. What was the occasion? Kurt and Janice's Wedding!!

Here is the gang of Hout Gentlemen with the lovely new Lady Hout!

Quinn did a beautiful job performing the Ceremony... doesn't he look dashing with his new suit and bow tie (and yes he is wearing suspenders under his jacket;-)

I got fancy new Ruby Slippers just for the occasion!

Nana and Charlie- a smashing couple...you better believe they hit the dance floor more than once during the evening:-)

Byron and Kelly- they make an amazing team at Catch Phrase...we competed against them the whole way to and from Utah...brutal- I want a rematch after my short term memory returns;-)

Kurt and Nicole- their wedding is coming up at the end of July...party round two! We're sorry to have to miss it...we'll be welcoming another addition to the Hout family;-)

It was a beautiful day and a memorable party;-)