The Chatterley's

Allison turns 2!

2009-11-16T09:40:00.001-08:00

We had a big birthday party planned for Allison's 2nd Birthday, but Jake and Allison got sick so we canceled it. Atleast she too young to realize what is she was missing. Instead her cousin Ayden (who was sick too) came over for cake and opening presents. It was a snotty nose birthday.Allison was so excited about the cake! She is my daughter!

She blew out the candle before any of us sang Happy Birthday, she was ready to eat the cake

Present opening time!
She was so excited that she broke into the presents when I wasn't looking. Smart little girl - it was her birthday, why should she wait. So I had to rewrap the present and she opened again when everyone was watching.

It was a kitchen birthday, everything was kitchen themed!
She loves to "cook". She has been pulling pans out of the pantry and pouring things into them for months. It was time that she got her own supply.

Then it was time to eat the cake - of course she and Ayden couldn't stop playing kitchen.

Grandma Carol and Opop got Allison a little kitchen. She loves it and has been playing with it for an hour now. And in Allison time - that is FOREVER!!!

We got her plastic "healthy" food (from Cosco). She knows what is all is, I guess that means that we are feeding her well.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-16T09:36:00.000-08:00

Allison, Jake, and cousin Ayden all went trick-or-treating together.
Allison was a ladybug again - it still fit!
Jake was Yoda - so cute!

Jumping

2009-11-15T10:06:00.000-08:00

We pulled out the jumper for Jake, but Allison has enjoyed it more. She has figured out how to get in and out, funny to see. I think she needs to be in gymnastics....

Trying to catch up

2009-09-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

Things have been very busy here. We are both working a lot, trying to renovate the house, and keep up with the kids and daily life.

Here are some pictures of daily life that we have taken over the past month....

Hanging out on the lawnPlaying at the park
Chillin in the crib with company

Watching college football - Go UF and FSU!

Watching movies with Ayden

Reading to Jake (turn up the sound and pause the radio on the blog)

Intuition

2009-07-15T10:07:00.000-07:00

Always worry when your kids are "too" quiet.

I wasn't listening...

Allison found the markers.

Looks like she was "copying" Mommy and putting on makeup - thankfully she didn't get any on the walls or the furniture.
It was hard to keep in the laughter!

Jake's first "hair cut"

2009-07-14T11:03:00.000-07:00

OK, I HATE it when newborns get that "mustache" of hair at the base of their head - where the hair rubs off above from sleeping and grows below. So even though my intuition said not too, I TRIED to "trim" the small patch of hair, but instead shaved bald a "step" in his hair. So Ivan had to buzz it all off to correct my mistake.
It doesn't look a bit different to anyone else... so he is STILL a baldy!He didn't mind the hair cut, just hung out with daddy.

Chores

2009-07-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

We have to find ways to get household chores done with two little ones... Ivan was a little creative and Allison LOVED IT!!

The house renovations

2009-07-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

Of course they are taking longer (and more money) than we wanted, but things are getting done. Here are some updated pictures of the house. Ivan almost has the kitchen cabinet door painted, so those should be up in a week or so. We have ordered granite countertops which should be in in about 8 weeks - can't wait....

Brandy's Visit

2009-06-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

My best friend Brandy came to visit and see Jake for the first time. We had so much fun just hanging out.Managing two in her lapJake loves his diaper being changed - he coos and smiles at you.Smiles after a bathChillin around the house

Allison doesn't always get her way - and she doesn't like it!!!

Temple Square

Our Hike
We couldn't pass up the chance to enjoy the mountains. The weather threatened rain, but it held out for us.

Brandy packed in Jake and our lunch. He fell asleep soon after this picture - babies feel right at home in the wilderness.We stopped for a picnic lunch and of course Jake woke up for lunch too.

Allison missed the picnic, too much fresh airShe woke up right as we were leaving and enjoyed the hike back down

Dad and Kailey came to Utah

2009-06-16T14:28:00.000-07:00

Kailey came out to visit for a week (flying by herself) and Dad joined her later. It rained every afternoon (unusual for Utah) so it stopped some of our plans, but we all had a fun time.

Oquirrh Mountain TempleWe went to the open house
In the mountains

We planned on going camping, but the weather didn't work, so we just went up to the mountains for a short hike and camp fire dinner.Ivan and Kailey started the camp fire together.Papou held Allison and Jake while observing the fire starters.Jake "chillin" on Papou's lap.
It was chilly and the only "non-pink" hat I had was a hat Aunt Kristin sent for the winter - so Jake was our little Santa!
On our hike...
Ivan climbed up onto this large rock - he thinks he is a mountain goat.From his viewKailey hiked with AllisonJenna hiked with Jake.
Why did both of the women carry the babies - like the olden days...

Park City

It was the 125th anniversary of Park City, so they had activities for the kids.
Allison got butterfly.

Jake got a dinosaur.
(Apparently my lips were dry)

Afterward we went out for a nice dinner.

Thanks for visit Dad and Kailey!!!

Update

2009-06-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has been so long....
But between moving into a new house, renovating a new house, a 1 1/2 year old busy little girl, and a newborn - some things are put on hold. But I have some help, so I am getting a chance to catch all of you up on the family.

Here are some older pictures

When Rita was in Utah to help me with Allison after Jake was born, she tried to get potty training started. Allison liked sitting on the toilet and she would wipe when she was "done".

PUT UP YOUR DUKES! I want to fight!
(Jake about 3 weeks old)Allison hopping into the bath, she put on my shower cap.
GREAT BRIBING PHOTO - I plan on showing this one to her dates in the future (the FAR AWAY future)!

Jake's firsts...

2009-03-28T20:47:00.001-07:00

Here is some of Jake's firsts on his first day on this Earth.

Allison and Jake meet for the first time.
She had just woke up and was not too enthused about the hospital - she seemed pretty confused.

Jake's first sponge bath.

Getting dress after having the ick of delivery washed off of him. After the warm water, he was out for another nap. Hopefully he will stay mellow like this.

Awake from his nap, I actually caught a photo with his eyes open - so far they are blue, maybe they will stay that way with his blond hair.

Jacob "Jake" James Chatterley

2009-03-28T16:24:00.000-07:00

Our little boy is here!

Born March 28th at 2:48pm
7 lbs 15 ounces
20 1/2 inches long
Healthy and very mellow so far!

Right after delivery, I pushed for 1 hour, was very comfortable with my epidural!
Very lovely delivery!

He looks like Allison, I did not get any credit with this baby - looks like his daddy, just like Allison.

Baldy Baby! Blue eyes with blond peach fuzz, very little eyebrows or eyelashes.

On the scale getting weighed for the first time.

Ivan and his new little buddy.

And the wall comes down

2009-03-27T20:39:00.000-07:00

The renovations have become. Ivan has been putting in hours of work at the house after work - such a great husband.

Ivan and Eric tore the wall down - YIPPEE!!Opening up the living room to the dining room and kitchen.

One big great room.

She loves her yogurt

2009-03-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

Apparently Allison thinks wearing the yogurt is better for your skin than eating it

Allison's yogurt facialEating the yogurt backwards - she doesn't get it that it is running down her arm, instead of making it into her mouth.

Breakfast face!

2009-03-19T08:46:00.000-07:00

She tries to eat with a spoon, but not much makes it in her mouth (as you can see). BUT she has to learn somehow.

WE OWN IT!

2009-03-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the inside of the house.
We have plans to tear out all of the flooring and replace it with hardwood flooring and changing out the carpet in the bedrooms. The home needs a good cleaning and painting as well. I've explained below all of our planned changes for the house. Of course, not everything will be completed before we move in (probably on April 11th). Also, I forgot to take a picture of the hall bath - sorry it is unexciting.
We are going to wait to up date anything in the basement.

View from the front door. The living room is on the left, the stairs to the basement are straight ahead, the dining room and kitchen are behind the wall.

Stairs to the basement.

Living room. We are planning on taking out the (non-load bearing) wall on the right to open up the living room to the dining room and kitchen to make one LARGE great room.

Dining room on left and kitchen.

The Kitchen. We plan on re-staining the yellow oak cabinets to a dark chocolate brown and changing the cabinet door fronts to a simple shaker style. And of course we want to get stainless steel appliances with a gas stove. We also want to change the U-shape to an L-shaped kitchen with an island.

Back door to the deck and a desk. We are thinking about taking out these cabinets and making the space into a pantry.

Hallway to the bedrooms and bathroom.

First bedroom on the left. Probably will be the boys room - smaller closet.

2nd bedroom on left. Bigger closet (walk-in) so it will probably be Allison's room.

Master bedroom at the end of the hallway. We plan to move the wall on the right out about a foot to expand the master bath.

Master bath. We plan on tearing out the tub shower and making a stand-up shower with glass doors, updating the tile, and changing the vanity to double sinks.

A warm spring day

2009-03-17T12:06:00.000-07:00

Today is a warm spring day, so it was time to pull out the cute everyday dress. Also, Allison's babysitters have started to do Allison's hair and have inspired me. Here are her cute "Mickey Mouse" pigtails.

I LOVE chocolate

2009-03-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

Allison shared my brownie. This is the face that ALWAYS happens after eating chocolate - a chocolate chin!

Home update

2009-03-05T07:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had our home inspection, aside from some VERY DEEP CLEANING and new carpet, the home is very sound. There is only one problem, stucco... there is some water damage in one area and we had an appraisal done. So we are waiting for the stucco appraisal to come back so we can send it to the bank. So the home purchase is still in a holding pattern.

As for pictures, I took my camera yesterday to take pictures, but the battery died - so NO photos. Sorry... I will get some for all of those that want to see the home and its layout.

Thanks for your love and support. We will keep all of you updated...

NO more renting....

2009-03-03T08:33:00.001-08:00

We got the house!!! The bank has approved our offer and now we are doing the necessary details, appraisals and home inspections. Of course, there could be a hiccup along the way, but hopefully we will be home owners soon.
Actually, REALLY SOON, the bank wants us to close March 20th! Of course, I am due on March 31st, so this is going to be a really busy month. We will see how all of this goes, but thankfully, I will have some help between Rita and my mom's visits, hopefully we will have some moving help.
Maybe we will have a baby name soon too....

I just found out that they have taken the home off of the MLS, probably because it is under contract now. So I will work on getting some photos of it for all that are interested.

For all of those who don't know the details of the house, here they are...
5 bedrooms (3 beds main level, 2 in the basement)
3 bathrooms (2 baths main level, 1 in the basement)
ranch/rambler built in 1990s - needs some TLC and update (flooring and kitchen and baths)
semi-unfinished basement (just the beds and baths are done, but there is lots of room for a GREAT family room)
fenced in backyard with a deck (and space for Ivan's trailer)
good neighborhood with a park less than a block away
in south jordan - off of 124th, not too far off of highway 15

I'm growing bigger

2009-03-02T09:25:00.000-08:00

Allison went to the pediatrician today and we still have a little model on our hands... she is tall and thin compared to other kids her age.

Height: 32.5 inches - 97th percentile
Weight: 21.5 lbs - 25th percentile

She had two shots - poor baby but she handles it well, cries while she is being held down, but then recovers quickly. We also found out that she has (yet again) followed in daddy's footsteps and has asthma. She has had a continuous dry cough for months that worsens when she is outside, exerting herself, and is worse at night. So now we are going to try an inhaler to see if it will help her sleep through the night, hopefully she will stop waking up coughing.

Here is a video of Allison "eating" some oatmeal - no wonder she is so thin, I don't think any of it gets into her mouth - but she has to learn to feed herself some how. Needless to say, after this eating session she went STRAIGHT to the bath and of course the oatmeal was STILL hard to get off. Why is oatmeal so gluey?
Sorry that the video is grainy...

Do it AGAIN!

2009-03-01T08:08:00.000-08:00

For those who grew up with Ivan, you already know, that his favorite phrase as a child was "Do it again"! Of course, Allison has followed in her daddy's footsteps, but because she can't say that, she signs "more". Here is Ivan "roughing" her up and she wanting more after he stops. Her sign for "more" is a open left hand and her right hand pointing at the left hand.

Sorry the video is from the side, I had a brain-fart - the baby is stealing my brain cells.

Baby Names

2009-02-26T10:08:00.000-08:00

As most of you probably know, Ivan and I are having trouble again naming our baby boy. Ivan likes contemporary names and I like classic names, so we have a hard time agreeing. We have agreed upon the middle name and it will be James (Ivan's middle name), so atleast we have one thing covered.
Here is what we do like:
Ivan - Braddock, Bridger
Jenna - William, Harrison
Agreed names - Weston, Jackson (but one of Ivan's siblings wants Jack for their boy, so it may not be a possibility)
We will keep you posted....

An update

2009-02-17T20:53:00.000-08:00

Here is what has happened for the past 6 weeks.

Ivan and I have started house hunting. We are looking for homes in the Salt Lake area (mostly in South Jordan and Bountiful). We want to be in an area where there are lots of young families and children for our kids to grow up with (and of course, good schools). We have put an offer in on three short sale homes all in the South Jordan area - two of them are in the Daybreak community (a planned community like Celebration in Orlando - lots of planned parks, community programs, and very cute homes). For those of you whom do not know, a short-sale is the step before foreclosure of a home, the price of the home must be approved (along with lots of paperwork) by the bank and is sold at a reduced price. So it probably will be several weeks or a few months before we hear if any of our offers have been accepted. The third home that we have put an offer in on is in South Jordan/Riverton. It is also a short-sale and is more of a fixer-upper (just because was trashed by the previous owners) and it was built in 1996 so it needs some updates. But the home is large 3200 sq ft (1600 sq ft unfinished basement) and on 0.25 acre, has a park very close by, and is close to the highway for commuting. Because it needs some updating, Ivan and I are excited to put our stamp on the home, but we are just waiting to see what the bank will say.

Check out the homes on www.utahrealestate.com and punch in the MLS #s and you can see all of the pictures of the homes.

MLS # 820646
Favorite home in DayBreak

MLS # 845547
Big grey home that is a fixer-upper

MLS# 853529
One of the homes in DayBreak

In mid-January, Allison, Ivan, and I flew to Orlando for a visit. Ivan stayed for 4 days and then flew back for work. Allison and I stayed for 10 days total and enjoyed time with my family and visited Ivan's family as well. My mom through a baby shower or "sprinkle" for our baby boy since everything I have is pink, purple, or ladybug (and Ivan will have none of that on our son). The shower was great and it was great to see everyone from Orlando at one time. We all enjoyed the weather change and Allison loved playing outside on the porch. It was a wonderful trip and of course I will post some pictures ASAP.

Finally, we are awaiting the birth of our baby boy. Unfortunately, Ivan and I are having a hard time agreeing on a name (I like classic names and he likes contemporary/unusual names), so we have nothing. We, of course, will keep everyone posted on the name progress. As far as pregnancy, I am feeling great - aside from feeling REALLY pregnant. It is hard to move around and chase after a 15 month old and bend down for all of her toys and such - but that is the nature of the beast. I am hoping to avoid a cesarean section this time, but we will see how things go. Until then, I have lots of contractions at work, but everything seems to be going smoothly and my doctor is not too concerned.

Well that is all for now, I will add some pictures soon...

Out of the habit

2009-02-17T20:51:00.000-08:00

Friends and family,

So sorry to everyone for getting out of the habit of blogging. Everyone is requesting more information and pictures of the family, so I am getting back on the bandwagon. Please be patient with me as I try to catch up before the baby is born.

Love,
Jenna

Sledding

2008-12-26T23:27:00.000-08:00

It snowed all night on Christmas Day and we had a fresh new layer (about 6") of snow on the ground, so we all decided it was time for some sledding. There is a good hill over by Jill's parents house in South Jordan, so we made the trip and enjoyed some snowy fun.

Before we left, Ivan and Adam shoveled the walk.
Tim wants to know, "Do I look like a unicorn?"Walking over to the hill, Allison and Ayden rode over in the sled - until they were dumped over and had to be carried to the launching area - too hard for the little girls to walk in the snow

She wasn't too cold and enjoyed the snow this time.

Swinging with Daddy and she loves it.

Part of the family all bundled up. (Nikki, Adam, Tim, and Rita)

She smiled all of the way down.
Surprise, surprise - our little dare-devil loves to sled.

Tim and Rita taking a turn and getting a good push off from Eric, luckily they didn't get dumped over.

After sledding, we all were hungry and made a trip to Cafe Rio - YUMMY!
Allison had fun talking to both tables.

Allison is having fun sticking her tongue out at the camera and thinks she is so funny. Plus, you can catch some views of everyone in the sledding crew.

Christmas morning

2008-12-25T10:39:00.000-08:00

Rita and Tim went down to American Fork for Christmas morning. So for Christmas morning, it was Ivan, Allison, Adam, and I - Nikki was sick with the stomach flu (so sad to hit her on Christmas morning)

Ivan and Allison started a fire before opening presents to add to the atmosphere.

Getting her presents.

Getting ready to open presents.Here is the present sash.

What is it?

Puzzles from Papou, Yiayia, and Aunt Kailey - yeah so much fun

Pop up toy, "I love pushing them down"

Stuffed animal from Grandma Carol and Opop. She loves to cuddle all of her stuffed animals and pat their bums, just like we do to her.Adam gave our baby boy his first shirt. "Ummm... boobies"

Tired from all of the unwrapping, so I'm chillin with dad!

Christmas Eve 2008

2008-12-24T22:00:00.000-08:00

Everyone came over to our house for Christmas Eve.

We started out with making Christmas cookies - Allison was too young, but the tradition is started.Eric and Tess.Tess the Christmas Elf.

Papa stealing a cuddle with Carson

Christmas Dinner

After dinner the girls were restless and Rita's singing (and bouncing) worked to calm them, while the boys cleaned up Christmas dinner.

Rita, Tim, and Adam arrive for Christmas

2008-12-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

On December 20th, Rita, Tim, and Adam arrived from Florida for Christmas. Nikki (Adam's fiancee) arrives in a few days. Eric, Jill, Ayden, Jared, Lori, Creede, Carson, and Tess all came over to see Mama and Papa and we had a yummy dinner. They are all here until January 3rd.

Papa is the story reader. Ayden is enjoying "Piggy Wiggy"All of the kids had to get in some reading time. Of course, they all had to squish into our smallest chair, but Aunt Jill loves the cuddles.

Ayden and Creede love to wrestle and tickle eachother.

Here is round two on videoTess wearing Papa's hat - a cowgirl at heart!

Visiting Santa

2008-12-20T08:43:00.000-08:00

Today, Allison and I went to see Santa with some friends from the ward while Ivan went to pick-up Rita, Tim, and Adam. The Christmas festivities have been officially started...

Allison and Braylin waiting in line for Santa.... clueless of the scary white bearded man coming up.Allison was happy and walked straight up to Santa. Then she realized he was scary and backed away. I put her on his lap anyways and the crocodile tears started flowing.

"Mommy why are you leaving me here"

A day in December

2008-12-17T03:35:00.001-08:00

Our little garbage picker.
Allison loves going through the recycles despite the covered trash cans. This morning she walked out of the kitchen with yogurt container on her foot and the blueberry crate in her hand.
Can you say... garbage collector for a future job!

When ever we go shopping, Allison hates sitting in the cart; she want to roam the store.
But of course at home, in her push shopping cart, she is willing to sit or stand and play in the basket. This girl is killing me.

Christmas fun

2008-12-14T19:34:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

A snowy day

2008-12-13T15:51:00.000-08:00

Finally it feels like Christmas. Although the natives think I am crazy, this is one of the reasons we moved here - to enjoy a wintery Christmas season. Today it snowed about 3-4 inches in the morning, so it was time for Allison to experience playing in the snow.

Getting ready... reminded me of "The Christmas Story" where the mom gets the kid dressed up and he can't move. That was Allison, she fell over while putting on her jacket and was stunned that it didn't hurt, but then squirmed around and couldn't get up.
Is it bad to laugh at your kid?Ivan shoveled off the driveway and walk, so we decided to surprise him.

Getting ready to play...

OK, I'm standing here...

but I don't like making snow angels....

playing with the snow isn't bad.

Please take me inside

I've had enough of this white powdery stuff.

Our 1st Family Christmas Tree

2008-12-04T08:57:00.000-08:00

Last night, we had a family night and went to a Christmas tree stand and picked out our first tree. When we got it home, it was a bit too tall for our ceilings, so Ivan had to cut down the trunk. It made the house smell wonderful and VERY Christmas-y. Allison loved walking around with the tree stump.
So far she hasn't bothered the tree - but time will tell...

A Thanksgiving blessing

2008-12-02T12:37:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness for Thanksgiving weight gain. Allison finally tipped the scales at 20 lbs and can turn forward in her car seat - no more crying. Hallelujah for Tracey's chocolate chip cookies and Aunt Ginny's lasagna. She giggled and laughed on her first ride facing forward.
Such a big girl!

Thankgiving in Chicago

2008-11-30T08:22:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving Ivan, Allison, and I traveled to Chicago to spend the holiday with the Rousonelos family. I flew out with Allison on Saturday - so stressful traveling by yourself with a one year old, but thank goodness for Delta, they saved the seat next to me, so Allison had some space to play and the 3 hour flight went well. Before the holiday, Kailey and I went to see a movie "Twilight" and had fun being sisters. Then Allison and I went to Aunt Ginny and Uncle Mark's for dinner (my mom's sister), we had lots of fun and of course Allison had ANOTHER birthdy, but unfortunately I forgot my camera to document it.
Ivan arrived on Wednesday morning, just in time for the holiday preparations.

Thanksgiving

Dad mashing potatoes with a special potato ricer - interesting product - the potatoes turned out so yummy, but that might have been the sour cream, cream cheese and butter.Ivan helped make the cobb salad by shreading the rotissery chicken, getting his hand full of guck.

I fell down on the job for taking pictures of Thanksgiving, I didn't get any of the Rousonelos spread - and what a spread it was. I ate so much, I really thought it was going to pop! All of the greek hors de'overes, turkey, and holiday yummys. Then there was an entire buffett of desserts - yum!

Here are the two pregos - I am 22 wks and Eleni is 20 wks.

Her LAST 1st birthday party!

Ivan and Kailey gave Allison a bath before Allison's birthday party.

Why do kids drink bath water - ICK!!!

Why is there a fire on my cupcake?

Yummy pumpkin cupcakes - Thank you Tracey! This is what a cupcake is all about!!!

Lots of presents.... Allison is getting good at opening the wrapping and she loves to tear the paper

Of course, then she wants to play with the presents. If you try to take the toy away so she can open the next one, she gets mad. I guess the days of open a present and toss it aside for the next one will be coming soon.

She loved the big book and all of the presents. Thank you to Papou, Yiayia (Tracey), Aunt Kailey, Yiayia Nola, Great Uncle Stan, and his girlfriend Sophia.

We made it out of Chicago just in time. Our return flight was at 7:30am on Sunday morning - not so exciting, but when we arrived home we found out that we just missed the snow and ice in Chicago and avoided the delays. Thank goodness!!!

Allison enjoyed riding around in Ivan's suitcase, she didn't want to get out! I'm just amazed his suitcase got unpacked the day we got home, another reason to fly home early.

We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We are so thankful for the love, support, and health of our family and friends!

A packing distractor

2008-11-21T09:15:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness for husbands, Ivan took over Allison duty while I packed for Chicago. I tried earlier in the day, but Allison thought it was a fun game, mommy puts stuff in the suitcase and Allison takes it out and unfolds it. Although it was a fun game for her, it was counterproductive and frustrating for me, so Ivan was my hero!

His little groupie! Only Allison can enjoy Ivan's "guitar playing" and "singing" - the love of a daughter.Of course, Allison wanted to try, but all she wanted to do was hit the chords.

She did strum the guitar a few times, but with her non-musical parents, I am NOT expecting a musical genius.

Trip to Pocotello

2008-11-18T09:30:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, we went to Pocotello, ID to visit, Ivan's younger brother, Eric and Jill and their daughter Ayden (1 year older than Allison). We didn't have any big plans, except to hang out and have fun.

Pocotello is 2.5 hours away and I was nervous about the drive with Allison, it was her longest drive by far, but she did wonderfully. Ivan sat in back with her and she giggled and bonded with her daddy.

On Saturday morning, the boys went off to play flag football and the girls followed and were cheerleaders. But after a serious case of the "drop-sees" from the boys, giggles from Jill and I, and cold breezes, we took the girls home. Later that day, we drove around Pocotello and neighbor city, Inkom to enjoy the rolling hills. Then, the highlight of the trip, making a Cafe Rio burrito dinner. We had the pork, yummy rice, and the best green sauce - it was great!
Then, Sunday was chuch and the return home. Thanks to Jill and Eric for their hospitality. We can't wait to visit again....Allison and Ayden did finger painting on Saturday. Ayden tried to show Allison, but Allison had no interest in painting on paper, she just wanted to color her body and eat the paint.

Afterward, the girls were in NEED of a bath. The highlight for Allison was the wooden spoon, she stirred up the bathtub.

And the verdict is....

2008-11-14T08:12:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Ivan and I went to the doctor for the official ultrasound for the baby. They checked all of the internal organs and reviewed the lab work - this baby is HEALTHY - which is all I cared about.

But on to the more important news... the baby is... A BOY!!! Ivan is so excited and did a fist pump at the ultrasound, he said he didn't want to be a nerd and jump up and down, which is what I expected. I bought the baby his first cowboy onesie. Ivan is already planning for many pairs of cowboy boots and sports balls. I'm just scared of getting sprayed.

Pictures on the way - they only gave us a hard copy, so I have to get them scanned before I can upload them to the blog.

Allison goes to the doctor

2008-11-11T08:09:00.000-08:00

Allison went for her one year check up and shots on Tuesday. Here are her stats:

Weight - 19 lbs 5 oz - 25th percentile
Height - 30.5 inches - 90th percentile

Still tall and thin, the doctor says she should slow down in the next year or so.

Allison turns 1

2008-11-06T19:22:00.000-08:00

November 6th is Allison's birthday - she turned one today!

I was suppose to work a 3-11pm shift so I thought we were not going to have a party on her birthday. But they let me leave early from work so I could go home and celebrate... YIPPEE!!! Before I got home, I stopped to pick up a small birthday cake for the birthday girl.

Allison's birthday present from her mommy and daddy was a new car seat. She is still sitting backward (what they recommend until 18 months - boo-hoo) but this car seat can be easily turned around when she is ready.

Walking Movie:
Here is another (upright) video of Allison walking. She is moving now but she still likes to be held best. Sorry the movie is a little dark...

She has FINALLY started walking

2008-11-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

Allison decided to show off for all of the Goffin's and started walking. Finally, Allison is moving beyond the furniture surfing and fast crawling. Ivan filmed it from the side... Sorry if you get a neck ache. We will post another walking episode from a right side up.

Birthday Party

2008-11-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

Ayden and Allison had a dual birthday party at the Goffin's house. Ayden turned two and Allison turns one on Nov. 6th. Thanks to the Goffin's for hosting the party.

Ayden and Allison had individual little birthday cakes. Allison got into hers before we all were looking or had sung "Happy Birthday".

We had to take her clothes off, she was making such a mess, but she loved every minute of it. We had to give her a bath afterward, the icing and cake were everywhere.

Present time

Mrs. Goffin gave Allison a push musical roller, it was her favorite toy. It was the only time all day that she stayed in one place.

Lori and Jared gave Allison some piggy PJs for her birthday, so Ayden put on her matching PJs and they both looked adorable!

Halloween

2008-10-31T10:35:00.000-07:00

Allison's first Halloween.... and I had to work. Boo-Hoo!!! So Ivan took her down to American Fork to go trick-or-treating with Creede and Carson. But I requested some pictures so I could see her first Halloween.

Allison is a pet lover. Here she is snuggling with Jared and Lori's cat... I'm surprised that Ivan "allowed" documentation of Allison with a cat, knowing his hated of cats... but Allison loves them.Starting to trick-or-treat for the first time. Allison hitched a ride on Dad's shoulders for the evening and helped collect candy for Ivan and I, but if you start to eat it, she BEGS for some. She already has a sweet tooth.Already trying to get into the candy - she loves anything chocolate.

A Girl's Weekend!!!

2008-10-26T11:54:00.000-07:00

My wonderfully supportive husband found me a flight to Denver to visit my best friend Brandy in Evergreen, CO. Ashley (our third amigo) worked it out and made the trip as well. We had such a great girls weekend. The weather was cool but nice and of course the four days flew by.

In Evergreen, there is a central lake by the center of town, we all decided to walk around it, enjoy the weather and the mix of dogs that passed by.

We thought this was a funny sign

The next day we went to Vail, CO. The town was cute (modeled after a Swiss village) but the layout was NOT stroller friendly (lots of stairs, no elevators or ramps) - Ashely and Brandy encountered some of the obstacles of motherhood. No matter what, we did not let it stop our fun.

When we got home, we decided to make butternut squash soup. Allison enjoyed gumming the squash while I prepped the soup.

My baby washers.... I didn't have to give Allison bath for four days, but I did have my hands full with the dirty diapers.

Brandy and Craig have two LARGE Great Dane dogs (Zoe and Winston). Allison laughed and loved the dogs and decided to "ride" Winston.

At 160 lbs, Allison can fit under Winston standing up.

Decided to go on a hike, which as Brandy said had beautiful 360 degree views at the top, beyond tree line. Ashley was a trooper and hiked the snowy trail in jeans. We only lost the trail once amongst all of the snow. The hike was harder walking in the snow, but was worth the work.
But once we got above tree line - it was another story. The wind pelted the snow at us and gusted at about 60 mph, it almost knocked thin Ashley down. We tried to finish the hike to catch the views, but the ice cold wind was hard on us and we didn't want to torture Allison (who ended up with my scarf around her face and all you could see were her little eyes)! I tried to take some pictures and video but my camera shut down (maybe it was the cold wind?)Allison caught a ride with Brandy. Thank goodness... I was sucking wind with the snowy hike, altitude, pregnancy, and being out of shape.Of course, she fell asleep on the way up, she was toasty warm and rhythm of walking always puts her to sleep.

Mom's Visit

2008-10-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

My mom came to Salt Lake for a visit this past weekend. We had so much fun on our girl weekend. Allison took right to my Mom instantly.

We went to temple square on Friday and enjoyed the most perfect weather, being outside, and the beautiful grounds. We went to the Joseph Smith movie and walked around the tabernacle. Afterward, we enjoyed sushi at Tasashi - the BEST sushi I have EVER HAD and the highest priced - but worth it -- Thanks MOM!

Hiking Time...

On Saturday, we went on a hike. It was the same hike that we went in August, but the trees were yellow, so the sights were very different and gorgeous!

Allison had a fun time riding on Daddy's back, until...

she fell asleep. She missed the pretty lake and our picnic lunch.

We found the perfect camping area, a fire pit and flat rocks already set around to sit on, and of course the beautiful view. MAYBE, there will be another warm weekend before the winter hits for a camp out!
My mom found a snow patch and wanted a picture. As Ivan said, where there is snow.... there are snow balls... and my mom got pelted with one, right before the picture was taken.

An Early Birthday

2008-10-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

While my mom was here, we had a little early birthday party for Allison. A birthday dinner, presents and cake!

Grandma gave her a card that opened and played the itsy-bitsy spider. Allison thought it was so funny!

Surprisingly, Allison liked opening her presents - but then again who doesn't.

Grandma and Opop gave her a shape tool box, Tonka fire engine and train - what's up with the boy toys?

We are calling the tool box, a purse. Of course, Allison loved it!

Yummy cake!!!

What?!? Just a taste?

That's it! I love the cake!I can't get it in fast enough! Is cake-loving genetic? Thanks mommy for the good genes.

Our Little Ladybug

2008-10-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

My mom and I took Allison to the Gardner Village for pictures with the pumpkins. At first, Allison had on some black shoes which were too small - lots of sad faces and bad pictures. Once the shoes were off, smiles all around!

Thank you to Andrea Misko! I have been waiting for this Halloween and she could wear the perfect ladybug costume. Thanks for thinking of us when you saw it. It fit perfectly...

Drive through the mountains

2008-10-10T14:09:00.000-07:00

Ivan and I took an afternoon and drove up into the Unita mountains to enjoy the fall leaves. All of the aspen trees were yellow (although some had already lost their leaves) it was beautiful. The weather was in the 60s and we drove with the windows open and Allison on Ivan's lap in the front seat... she thought she was so special.

On a very quiet road, way up in the mountains, we got out of the car to enjoy the scenery. This is why we moved to Utah!

Of course, we had to get Allison playing in the leaves... or really she was trying to eat the leaves and the rocks. But atleast it is a cute picture!

We had to stop and enjoy the beautiful view.

On the way back to the car, Allison caught a ride back on Ivan's shoulders... of course she almost pulls his ears off to hold on. Ivan complains, but keeps putting her up there, it must not be THAT bad!

Creede and Carson's Birthday Party

2008-10-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

Creede and Carson had their combine birthday party last weekend.... of course a cowboy theme! They had homemade stick horses, lassoing competitions, cupcake making, and horseback riding. The neighbor family brought a horse over for the kids to ride.... so cool!

Allison on her first horse.... and she took it in stride, eventhough the horse didn't move.

It was a beautiful day outside, perfect weather! Allison enjoyed the grass and Carson rode up on his stick horse to pat her head and give her a hug.... such a sweet cowboy.

Jared and Lori have a swing in their side yard hanging off of the tree and the little girls liked it best... as long as they were not being hit down by the other one swinging!

Allison and Ivan helped to push Ayden, we all had such a good time.

Allison and her favorite kitty relaxed on the blanket.

Afternoon at the Goffin's

2008-10-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

It was so nice having Eric, Jill, and Ayden in town for a few weeks. We went over to the Goffin's one afternoon and the girls played.

Ayden was helping Allison pose for the picture. They both loved the rocking horse and were so cute together!

The Goffin's have a great dog Cooper and he likes to follow everyone around the pool.

August Hike

2008-10-10T10:53:00.001-07:00

Ivan and I went on a hike on Big Cottonwood Canyon and we found a remote hike through the aspen trees and to a big meadow and small lake with a beautiful view. Thankfully we were the only ones on the trail and really enjoyed the seclusion.

The videos

2008-09-29T10:48:00.000-07:00

Make sure you mute the music first before watching the videos - and of course turn up the sound for the full effect!

Ivan and Jenna dance!

2008-09-29T10:38:00.000-07:00

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Allison competes!

2008-09-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

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And baby makes FOUR!

2008-09-17T17:07:00.000-07:00

Good News! I am pregnant again! My doctor is saying my due date is March 31, 2009 (an Aries baby), which makes me now 12 weeks (so I feel comfortable sharing the news with everyone). So far, I am feeling pretty nauseous and taking medications throughout the day and night. On the good side, this time I will be "big" pregnant through the winter.... cold weather and big clothes - Yippee!

MIA

2008-09-12T02:32:00.000-07:00

For those whom do not know, Ivan lost his job at the company he started with when he moved to Utah at the beginning of August. Therefore, I was working 4 nights a week, while he stayed home with Allison. I have been so busy between working and sleeping and being cranky that I have been EXTRA PITIFUL with returning phone calls and I ask all those whom love me to forgive me. Well, I am now working only 3 days a week again and I am starting to get a life back. Even better, Ivan just got a job today!!! He will be doing corporate billing for a genetics company in Salt Lake City - thank you for all of your prayers and well wishes. Life is getting back to normal and I hope to talk with all of you soon!!!

And of course..... Go Gators!

Beware! For those that are faint at heart...

2008-09-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

Here are Eric and Ivan tossing Allison back and forth. Of course Allison loved it and was laughing (as long as she was facing forward), I'll say it again .... looks like we have a daredevil on our hands!

She's Walking

2008-09-10T13:00:00.000-07:00

I broke down and brought Allison this cute shopping cart for a walker. She loves it and all the toys, music, and lights - this is not the shopping cart walker I had. For all of those far away, you can see her development. As you can see, she is not so good at turning it yet!

1st Camping Trip

2008-09-08T19:20:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, a few of the Chatterley families went up to Strawberry Reservoir for an overnight camping trip. Jared, Carson, Creede, Jill, Eric, Ayden, Ivan, Jenna, and Allison all enjoyed the outdoors and got REALLY dirty (Lori and baby Tess came up for the day but didn't say overnight). It was a bit "white-trash" camping but we had a blast! We had hamburgers for dinner and smores for dessert over the campfire, thankfully it didn't get too cold in the morning. Enjoy the pictures!

Eric and Ivan picking up wood. We made fun of how much wood they collected, but we ended up using it all.
Overlooking Strawberry Reservoir
Ivan and Allison "hanging out"
Allison loved the fire. Thankfully we didn't end up with a barbecued Allison.
OUT LIKE TROUT, snuggled up and warm!

Sitting around in the morning, trying to wake up after the little girls woke up the camp with their squawking.

Sitting around the campsite, the little chairs were perfect for the kids.

Our little dirt-rocker!

Cutie Allison! She looks so big. Our little baby is gone!

I'm a growing bigger

2008-09-02T20:07:00.000-07:00

Allison went to the doctor today for her 9 month check-up (but she was 10 months.... another inconvience of moving - switching doctors). Dr. Hurley was great and of course she was charming - until the shots came. She screams and cries so hard for a few minutes and then she is fine. Ivan has to come with me to the doctor because I CANNOT hold her down - I am off in a corner trying REALLY HARD not to cry. I am NOT a nurse when it comes down to my own family.

Her 10 month stats:

Weight - 18 lbs 2 oz - 40th percentile

Height - 29.25 inches - 90th percentile

So Allison is a tall lean girl. I don't know where this girl is getting her height, but I NEVER expected a tall baby. Ivan says there are tall genes in his family - but if you know the Chatterley's, I don't know who he is thinking of.

Laughing at Daddy

2008-08-15T08:35:00.001-07:00

Ivan started doing some home exercises yesterday during the Olympics... he was inspired by the athletes. We had to put Allison in her highchair because she was getting under his feet, but that gave her a front row seat. She thought it was hysterical. Of course by the time I got the camera, she wasn't laughing as hard, but you will get the idea.

Turn off the music and turn your sound on for the full effect....

She's on the move

2008-08-12T15:07:00.001-07:00

Allison is officially crawling and getting into everything... we asked for it.

Alpine Rodeo

2008-08-09T22:18:00.000-07:00

Jared, Lori, Creed, Carson, Jill, Eric, Ayden, Allison and I all went to the Alpine Children's Rodeo on Friday night. Creed and Carson did some "mutton bustin" and "catch the chicken". Mutton bustin = a kid lays on the back of a sheep, holds onto the neck and the sheep takes off across the arena. The objective is to stay on as long as you can. Catch the chicken = all the kids in different age groups go out into the arena and they release several chickens, the kids run around trying to catch the chickens. If you catch it, you keep it. I think I would run Allison in the opposite direction.

Creed did really well in the mutton bustin. He held on really tight and made it half way across the arena but came in second. And Carson was scared of the chicken and then pouted that he didn't get it on the first try...too cute. But the family in front of us did catch a chicken and gave it to Creed and Carson, so the boys were happy about their PRIZE!

Here is Allison's first lollipop. She loved it and kept trying to steal the lollipop out of mine and Ivan's mouthes. Looks like we have a sweet lover in the making.

Also, this picture shows off one of Allison's many bruises. The crawling and furniture surfing is proving dangerous. She is never without a bruise on her head, our little white trash baby. Thankfully she is a tough cookie!

Swimming and bath time

2008-08-09T22:10:00.000-07:00

We went over to the Goffin's for an afternoon swim in the pool.
Ayden and Allison took a bath in the kitchen sink afterwards to rinse off.
They both are getting so big that they barely fit.

Hiking with Kristin and Kyle

2008-08-07T10:54:00.000-07:00

We drove up to Silver Lake and walked around on the boardwalk, then hiked UP the trail to Twin Lakes. Kristin and I almost didn't make it, but the view and the upper lake was worth it!

Allison fell asleep on the hike and woke up once we reached the top.

Kristin and I took our shoes off and put them in the lake to cool off.

Chillin on a rock and drying out after sitting in the lake.

Hugging on Daddy at the Twin Peaks Lake. Getting ready to put her toes in the water.

I've been replaced

2008-08-04T09:30:00.000-07:00

I came home from work on Sunday morning to find Ivan and Allison cuddling in bed asleep....daughters love their daddies. Luckily, they were so snuggled that I had my side of the bed free and could crawl in bed and fall asleep myself. We all slept for another hour before we had to wake up for church.

Her NEW Favorite

2008-08-01T06:47:00.000-07:00

Allison's new favorite activity is to run fast (and on her toes). She is so excited during it and screeches if you stop.

Pioneer Day

2008-07-24T17:33:00.000-07:00

For all of those whom are not Utaheans, Utah has a state holiday called Pioneer Day on July 24th. Fortunately, Ivan and Jared's jobs closed shop for the holiday, so we all went to mountains to enjoy the outdoors. We drove up Silver Lake Resevior in the American Fork Canyon, really pretty and (for a holiday) not too busy - but it was up a 3 mile dirt road. We had a picnic with "hobo dinners", took short walks with the boys, played cowboys and indians, and canoed the resevior.

All of the crew for the festivities.

Ivan grilling the "hobo dinners" - potatoes, ground beef, onions, peppers, cream of mushroom soup, and spices - YUMMY!
Ivan, Creede and Carson playing indians and hiding behind the rocks. The boys thought that they could not be seen if they could not see you, so hiding behind rocks and trees was easy - TOO CUTE!
On the walk with the boys, I was the picture taker for the indians.
Allison and I - I was eating her belly and she was laughing so hard. I think she liked being higher than me.

Our new table

2008-07-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

Yippee! Ivan and I have gotten our new dining room table. It was a long searching process to find something we both liked, was afforable, and could grow with our family. Thank goodness for RC Willey, we found one that fit all of those criteria and with the help of my mom and Maris we were able to buy a table, 6 chairs and bench, so we have seating for lots of family. Unfortunately, we have been having problems with the chairs and the legs being uneven, but RC Willey has been good about exchanging them. So now we have a table, 4 chairs, and a bench. Hopefully the next batch of 2 chairs will be rocking free and stained correctly. Thanks mom and Maris!

Cecret Lake Sunday

2008-07-20T20:58:00.000-07:00

We went for a hike again on Sunday (our family time) up to Cecret (Secret) Lake. It was fun and of course Allison LOVED it. We had a passing by hiker take our "family" picture and he didn't tell us that you couldn't see the main attraction of the family (the risk you run when someone else is taking your picture). If you look really closely she is trying to be in the picture by waving to the camera.

This hill we hiked up was not the easiest - my out of shape butt was huffing and puffing.

We made it to the top and had a picnic. Allison is making her Cecret Lake debute. She was eating Cheerios off of the picnic blanket and chillin with Dad.

Visit to Chicago

2008-07-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

Ivan, Allison and I travelled to Chicago this past weekend for my Papou's memorial (that is Greek for grandfather).

We visited Navy Pier in Chicago, it was a nice walk outside.

Allison with Great Yiayia

Allison with Kailey playing the piano

The dog (Simba) did not like Allison - she was too grabby - but when her arms were tied down in her wrap, he took the opportunity to sit on Allison's lap. Too funny, we were rolling on the ground.

Papou feeding Allison - SHOCKER! But I couldn't get him to change a diaper..... maybe next time.

A Sunday walk around Silver Lake

2008-07-07T22:29:00.000-07:00

On Sunday after church, Ivan, Allison and I drove up Big Cottonwood Canyon and started with a picnic. We ate at the base of this big rock and of course Allison had to climb it!

Then we drove up the canyon further to Silver Lake and walked around on the boardwalk with the stroller, Allison slept through the whole thing so Ivan and I got a chance to talk and be together.

If anyone ever wondered why we moved to Utah, this was it!

July 4th Celebrations

2008-07-04T07:07:00.000-07:00

Ivan and I had both of our families in town for the holiday weekend, lots of fun.

Sitting pool side at the Goffin's house.

A piggy back ride from Maris while furniture shopping.

4th of July picnic, Allison enjoyed walking in the grass and kicking (or nudging) the soccer ball along with Tim's support of course.

Looks like Allison my be a soccer player!!!

Tess' Blessing

Strawberry Days Rodeo

2008-06-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

Jared, Carson, Creede, Rita, Ivan, Allison and I all went to the Rodeo. We were all outfitted in our cowboy hats. It was a fun time, although I had a hard time watching the cows get man-handled.

Allison had a good time. She is just happy to be outside.

Our first hike

2008-06-18T22:20:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day, I got Ivan a camping backpack for Allison. We took a short walk. It was so nice to get outside and enjoy the dry weather and wilderness.

Allison loved the back pack. She looked at all the beautiful scenery and of course had to pull my hair. As other walkers passed by, she got lots of smiles.

We set up a little picnic right off of the trail, it was so peaceful next to the rushing water.

Allison at the beach

2008-05-24T00:03:00.000-07:00

Here is an oldie but a goodie. Allison loved being in the hole that her daddy and uncles dug for her and all of the little ones. I'm sure that is going to be a little daredevil.

Trying this out for the first time

2008-05-18T11:47:00.000-07:00

Family and friends....

Please bear with me as I try to figure this blog out - I feel completely inadequate. Since we are moving to Utah, I thought it would be a good place to start to keep all of you guys up to date on our lives and the GROWING little Allison. I hope you enjoy!!!