The Jeppson Journal

January happenings

2012-02-08T22:47:00.002-05:00

Well, a new year is upon us! 2012! I really can't get over how fast the time is flying. The kids are growing and getting so big and involed in a few things, which is wonderful. It really keeps me quite busy! I love it!
-Ethan has taken off in reading...especially within the past 2 weeks- FINALLY!!! We can't be more proud of him! His new love is 'Goosebump' books. He informed me today that he even skipped recess and kickball to read the entire time! I was shocked! He was really funny though when he told me, "Mom, it was really hard not to think about kickball. I did play it the last 2 minutes or so!" What a silly boy! I can't get enough of him! We had the missionaries over this evening and he was a great helper: setting the table, used his manners, helped with clean up, straightened up the family room after they left, and picked up all the toys...I thought, "What have you done with Ethan?" ;) HA! He is really enjoying Basketball and scouts right now.
-Alexis is also doing so well in school. She is coming out of her shell quite nicely! I love her so much and all her statements she comes up with! She is quite hilarious actually! I love that she makes us all laugh and is so patient and understanding with Hunter. She explains things so well and she can get a laugh out of any of us! She loves her tumbling class and is getting quite excited for spring soccer! She is a wonderful sister and a great helper to me! We are so proud of her and love her so!
-Hunter is as busy as ever....I think maybe he'll slow down one day! He begs for me to read to him everyday. He carries around a stack of about 10 books with him..."Read to me Mommy!" he says. He's getting so big....wears a 3T. He's 2 1/2 now. He takes pride in getting himself dressed without any help! He is such a little boy: loves trains, trucks, and cars! Sometimes in the mornings after dropping the kids off to school, we go and wait for the train to pass us. He grins from ear to ear in awe at its size and loudness! It's the simple things! He keeps us on our toes, but oh how we love him so!
-Chris is working so hard in PA school and unfortunately, we don't see much of him, but when we do, it's a good time! This past Sunday morning was spent in our PJ's reading the Friend, making a big breakfast, and enjoying being together. It was priceless!
-I am doing well- busy between part-time work and being a mom at home! I do enjoy it very much! I'm even picking up a little hobby of learning how to quilt, thanks to my friend, Amanda! She is AMAZING and is sharing a bit of her talent with me. I am making an Easter table runner...pictures to come!

Here are a few pics of the past month....

My dad with the kids playing 'Jenga'

Ethan and Alexis ice skating for the first time this season! LOVED IT!

We had a 30th Birthday party for my sister, Christina! It was fun! I think she enjoyed it!

Ethan and Lucky....Ethan's first pinewood Derby Car....finished 7th....a great place to start! We've got some tips for next year! This was a fun event Ethan enjoyed!

Ethan with George, his buddy! Hunter at one of Ethan's BBALL games! Such a cutie! :)

Alexis with her curlers I got her for Christmas! Her hair is beautiful all curly. I will get a picture next time with it done so you can see!

December to Remember

2011-12-04T20:36:00.001-05:00

It's the first Sunday in December....I just love Christmas and I LOVE my kids! Hubby was studying today, so I decided to ask a friend to see if she could come and take some pics of the kids with her TOTALLY amazing camera (and her totally amazing talent!). She was available and these are some of the finishing touches! I LOVE THEM! Merry Christmas everyone!

A wolf in our mist!

2011-09-26T22:00:00.000-04:00

Ethan is a wolf now....and he is beyond excited! I can't believe how much he is growing up! Ready or not, it's coming! I'm just so proud of him and his determination to be a scout (he's been asking for over a year on and off)! Chris and I are thrilled to see what he will learn and how he'll grow!

Here are a few pics of him in his new attire!

June/July summer fun!

2011-09-23T14:29:00.000-04:00

WOW! I can't believe how I've let this blog get so out of date, but it happens!!! THIS summer was crazy busy.....I worked alot and played alot....and so therefore didn't get much blogging done. Here are a few pics from the past summer!

Ethan and Alexis did an art camp this summer for a week! They loved it! I love the crafts they made! A pencil holder, bird feeder, bowl, toothbrush holder and an elephant paper holder! We are sure putting these things to great use!

We also had so much fun this summer with the neighbor kids, the Chesters. Gabe, the oldest came to play often. It was great watching them interact and play! Lots of 'jam sessions' were going on here too! So fun! :)

Can't forget about the microphone....thank you Alexis and Hunter using his hand as one!!!!

We also helped a family out in our church this summer by keeping their daughter for a week. Leah Bell....we love ya girlie! It was a great time with never a dull moment here! She took these pictures at a local park on a hot day!!! Love my kiddos!!!

The kids also were in 2 weeks of swimming lessons at a local pool with the best instructor ever!!! They both did so great! Ethan spent most of our pool outings jumping off the low and high dives and doing 'new stunts' as he called them! I enjoyed watching the kids learn new skills. Alexis too can jump off the low dive and swim well all on her own!!!

We were able to have my neice, Haley, here also for 10 days this summer! She is such a sweetheart! We all loved having her here! The kids played so well together! Haley is 2 years older than Ethan. Most of these pictures are taken at Big Meadows in Skyline Drive! We love this area! Absolutely beautiful! We spent most of an entire day there hiking and climbing, packed a lunch there and saw a few animals...but not a bear! Too bad!! (the kids kept talking about 'what do we do if we see a bear?')
It was funny! :)

Haley and I went to a cupcake decorating party too! She did such a great job on her cupcakes!

Service to others

2011-09-23T14:05:00.001-04:00

This past Sunday, we had an amazing sacrament meeting given by an 11 year old boy in our stake, a 14 year old girl and our high counselor....all about service and why we are to give service...getting back to the basics! So, naturally, I asked the kids how they thought the meeting went. I really really appreciated Ethan's sigh with a "Well, OK Mom, I guess I'll do something nice for Alexis this week!"

Monday for family home evening, I challenged the kids, Hunter too, to do something nice for someone else at least once every day for 2 weeks for a little "reward". I have to say that we are 5 days into it now, and I'm loving how the kids are thinking of "things" they can do for others. Ethan has helped his teacher this week, made Alexis' bed, has spoken nicer! Alexis has made our bed. She continues to be an example of love and obedience. Both are speaking so nice to each other...for the most part! I'm very touched by their efforts! The spirit abides in our home more. I'm really enjoying this challenge...as I'm trying to do more things everyday for them and for Chris. Hopefully this will help them see how influencial they can be in someone else's life by giving Christlike service.

Hunter's haircut...

2011-07-06T18:56:00.004-04:00

After pictures:

Before pictures:

AWE! I know it's time to cut hair when it's almost his eyes....I don't know why I was holding off so long, maybe just because it's the 'little boy look', but whatever it is, it's done! I love my kids! Each one of them has such personality and spunk! Hunter desperately needed a haircut....so a haircut he got!

4 plus one...

2011-07-05T22:56:00.002-04:00

So, we took back one of my neices to spend some time here with us for two weeks before we head to our huge family reunion in West Virginia! We have had an eventful 2 days so far! Unfortunately, it was raining hard when we entered the 'Valley" we call come, so we did not go to any of the 4th celebrations around our home. We pulled in the driveway and I honestly wanted to sit and rest, but GO GO GO! LOL! We emptied out the van and then enjoyed a 3 mile bike ride. Luckily for us, the rain had stopped for just long enough for us to get home before it begain again! It was cool and nice weather for a bike ride! We came home to popcorn and movie, which was enjoyed by all!!!

Today, we got up, did chores, ate breakfast, went to swimming lessons for Ethan and Alexis ( with Haley and Hunter in the baby pool having fun), lunch, 2 loaves of bread made by Haley ( she was thrilled), homemade pizza for dinner, riding bikes, back to the pool, home for shower, and out for ice cream! Scriptures and bedtime for these kiddos!!! :) What a great day! Here is a picture of Haley with her first bread loaf! It was delicious, especially with Strawberry freezer jam on it! There's nothing like fresh bread still warm with homemade jam! YUMMY! :)

More Birthday parties...

2011-07-05T22:42:00.004-04:00

I just love my neices and nephew! They are such little blessings to our family! They play so well with our 3 kids and to watch Lil' Dave and Hunter at their best....IT IS THE BEST! From muscles, to high 5's to hands in their pants, they are just a loveable MESS!!!! :)

Little David turns 3 on the 7th! WOW! AND Haley is 9 1/2! She has not had a birthday party the past 3 years for one reason or another, so, Christina decided to go all out this year! Another pool party/BBQ/campout it was! I think everyone enjoyed themselves, I know we did! :)

Breanna's 11th Birthday!

2011-07-05T22:26:00.004-04:00

Well, my oldest neice is now 11! Wow, how is that possible? You all know how time flies when you are having fun, so, yep...totally possible! I'm so glad we went to MD to share in the festivities of it all! And, we had a blast! :)

SWIMMING LESSONS!

2011-06-29T14:56:00.004-04:00

Ethan and Alexis are taking swimming lessons from a new place this year and are loving it! Ethan will complete Level 2 and Alexis will complete Level 1 by the end of next week!

Ginger....the new dog

2011-06-29T14:49:00.003-04:00

HA! What a crazy weekend! Friday my sister calls and tells us to get on the computer to skype! (I knew something was up). WOW! They got a 10 week old St. Bernard! I was so shocked, but she's a cutie! Big, lovable, furry, not yet slobbery puppy who is great with kids! I do think Christina's family is a good fit! They will love her and she'll love the space!

Then, mom and dad come for the weekend and Sunday bring home a Chihuahua!!! So, we now have 2 more to add to our family of 12!!! Here are some pictures of Ginger, mom and dad's dog!

Alexis' big day

2011-06-21T19:59:00.004-04:00

Alexis, by far, is my nervous, frightened and cautious child! Needless to say, the past few days, her bottom tooth has been hanging by a thread and "no way are you pulling it out!" So, with much coaxing and talking up the tooth fairy pretty big... Alexis has lost her first tooth! YAY!

YUMMY!

2011-06-06T14:16:00.003-04:00

Fun pics...

2011-06-06T13:49:00.001-04:00

After Ethan's last soccer game, the coach took all the kids to the famous ice cream spot....J.J's!

Happy kids! :)

Ethan playing soccer...

2011-06-06T13:43:00.002-04:00

This spring Ethan really wished to do soccer again! HE really enjoyed it...and boy could we tell a difference from the first few games vs. the last game! Here are a few pics from the season!

Tumbling program

2011-05-25T21:27:00.003-04:00

Alexis has been in tumbling for the past several months! She absolutely loves it AND is very good at it! She really enjoys having something that is just for her and she can see how good she really is! Mrs. Harris is constantly telling her how talented she is! She does such a great job! We are so proud of her! Everyone was surprised when we found out about all the students receiving a trophy for their hard work! Needless to say, Alexis was thrilled....her first trophy! She has it placed on her nightstand so it's the last thing she looks at before bed and the first thing she sees after waking up! She is really proud of herself! YAY Alexis! :)

AND as of 5.24, she is now riding a 2-wheeler! Now she can get that big girl bike she wants instead of riding the 'old boy bike'!!!! :)

Alexis' Fun Day!

2011-05-25T21:06:00.003-04:00

Alexis' preschool has a Fun Day on the very last day of the year! She had a blast. They do lots of fun activities and have a 'cookout' afterwards with hotdogs from the grill and tons of sides! It was such a great time! I can't believe how much Alexis has grown this past year! She really has blossomed into this beautiful little girl, full of energy and love! I am so proud of who she is! Sadly, we will miss her friends from school. However, these 14 little kids are such a unique and close knit group, I'm SURE we will see many of them over the summer! We are already planning trips to the Washington D.C. zoo along with many trips to local museums and parks!

Here are a few pics of the event.

Alexis' Graduation

2011-05-22T18:22:00.008-04:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Hunter!

2011-05-22T18:06:00.008-04:00

Hunter's 2nd Birthday party in MD this year! I can't believe my baby is 2! CRAZY how it really does seem like yesterday that he was born! I am so blessed!

May 21st

2011-05-22T17:43:00.005-04:00

Mom and Christina ended up taking the kids to Arlington National Cemetery to see my mom's parents and sister who is buried there! WOW! Everyone enjoyed the time there! They found the grave and went to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers! It was neat for the kids to be together visiting and talking with Mom about some of her family history! THANK YOU Mom and Christina!

We got up early on Saturday and headed for the temple!!! YAY!

Mom and Christina met us there and took the kids so Chris and I could do a session at the Washington D.C. Temple! Such a beautiful day to be out and about...and no better place to be than the temple! It's been too long for us. We plan to change that fact, at least during the summer! The kids were excited to be there too! Ethan and Alexis were interested in looking up some family history on the computer in the visitor's center! The outside shot of Chris and I was taken by Ethan! He's getting to be quite the little photographer these days!

Funny Hunter Story...

2011-05-15T18:08:00.003-04:00

So, I'm at work and Daddy is in charge! I just called home and Hunter has locked himself in the bathroom, flushing and playing in the toliet getting all wet! Of course, "Good grief" comes and I got a good chuckle! Fun times with little, curious kiddos!!!!
Hunter is really such a joy to us AND boy does he keep us on our toes! He'll be 2 next Monday! I'm really NOT ready....been having some tears b/c I just can't believe it has been 2 years already!!! He has such a fun little personality! This morning he was making whinney noises JUST like a horse ALL the way to church! :)

Mother's Day...

2011-05-06T14:37:00.003-04:00

And here is why I LOVE being a MOM:

White Lavendar Farm

2011-05-06T14:27:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, we went with our friends to the Lavendar Farm, complete with petting zoo and all! After feeding and playing with the bunnies, horses, goats and llamas, we got a few plants and other goodies, Lavendar of course! Then we ate lunch at the picnic area there! What a great time had by all!

Teacher Thank-yous

2011-05-06T14:10:00.004-04:00

Alexis and Ethan have been busy this end of the year writing thank you cards to their wonderful teachers! We are SO grateful for their service!!! THANK YOU for all you do!

Ethan's 7th Birthday

2011-05-06T13:49:00.006-04:00

Ethan really wanted his birthday party somewhere 'fun' this year! So, we looked for some 'fun' places that were not too expensive and happily found a place in Woodstook called StoneyCreek Fun Center! They have roller skating, bumper cars, mini golf, arcade, laser tag, and ball pit with obstacle course! Ethan had a few classmates come and with cousins and grandparents here, it was such a blast! I know Ethan really enjoyed his birthday! Complete with soccer in the morning and a BBQ at our friends house in the evening, it was a FUN-FILLED day!!!! :)

Random pics....

2011-04-29T20:40:00.003-04:00

Alexis and I

Hunter and mommy after I got him out of the bunny suit!

Not too happy!!!

Not cooperating on taking a picture!

Ethan after stitches came out! Day 6!!!

Easter pics....

2011-04-29T20:25:00.003-04:00

Easter 2011: Ethan almost 7, Alexis 5 1/2 and Hunter 23 months
Love this one of the kids! Boy did we have such a fantastic Easter this year....and we didn't even dye Easter eggs...I know...I know....it's unheard of! But, I can say that we had our family had a wonderful testimony meeting and watched Jesus is Risen and talked about it! It was so wonderful to get down to that 'true meaning' of Easter! I'm just so touched that our Savior loves us...loves me so much to die and then resurrect so that I might live again!
I went to a Church fireside just for the women.....my cup was overflowing.... Talks and songs with our Stake President Chenney speaking at the conclusion! Absolutely loved it!
On the Wednesday before, spent the evening at church with our youth in a fun Easter egg hunt. The kids loved it too....yes we were out a little bit late, but very much enjoyed by all! I absolutely love our youth! They are so amazing and teach me something EVERY TIME I'm with them!
We had another egg hunt at our Friends house on Sunday after church and a wonderful dinner! It was so nice to have all 5 of us together...with 2 other families...together we were a party of 15!!! What a great time! We left there to spend some time with great friends....ate some fantastic food again and spent time with amazing people! We left at 8:15 am and came home around 5pm! What a great day spent with friends feeling loved and so blessed!

Friday night fun!

2011-04-29T20:22:00.003-04:00

Dinner, play, popcorn and movie with our friends, the Dollars!

Harrison, Hunter, Alexis, Lee, Ann and Ethan! My second kids! Love them so!

Tonight, we ate and then went 3 times around our block....and then inside to get cleaned up and popcorn/movie....TANGLED again! WE LOVE THIS MOVIE! :)

Happy Easter!

2011-04-16T20:53:00.005-04:00

So, I figured because we've lived here almost 3 years and have not taken our kids to get a 'real' photo shoot, I'd better do it! Luckily, I had a coupon AND a few friends told me about this really wonderful place not too far from here! I think the kids had a great time....and the pictures turned out really really cute! :) Happy Easter everyone....a little bit early! :)

Trike-A-Thon....for St. Jude's Hospital!

2011-04-15T14:56:00.003-04:00

Hunter's first tricycle ride! Didn't realize there are pedals for this thing, but who needs pedals when you have feet?

Natalie, Alexis, Maggie, and Leah! What a cute bunch of girls!

Alexis' preschool class 2010-2011. 14 kids....YEP, that's all of them!

Go Alexis Go!!!

Each year, Alexis' preschool does a Trike-A-Thon to benefit all the children at St. Jude's Research Hospital! This year, she was so excited to go and 'ride for the kids'!!! I love her enthusiasm! She really enjoyed herself this morning and I really love that she had other kids in mind as she was there! Enjoy some pics! Hunter really enjoyed himself too...his first ride on a tricycle! Maybe we need to get him one....what do you think? :)

Conference time fun....

2011-04-02T15:55:00.002-04:00

So tis General Conference weekend! YAHOO! In between sessions, the kids made volcanos! This was a great science experiment to also talk about Earth's crust, mantle, outer core, inner core, ect! We had fun!

Alexis and Tumbling....

2011-03-27T21:51:00.003-04:00

Alexis is amazing at tumbling. She enjoys it and is really really good at it! Aunt Christina gave her some of the girls' old leotards....and Alexis loves them. She couldn't wait to wear them to class!

more cousin fun....March 12th....

2011-03-27T21:45:00.002-04:00

Breanna is such a great one at the computer...she enjoys emailing and typing!

All 6 kids are quite exhausting! :) Pap-pap and Aunt Christina taking a snooze!
Little Dave playing with the drum....can you see me?
Storybook Trail! WOW! What a marvelous sight! Mom, Christina and all 6 grandkids!

Ethan's new bed

2011-03-27T21:40:00.002-04:00

So we finally got Ethan's bed put together and his room is coming together. The boys love their bed. Right now, Ethan sleeps on top and Hunter is back in his crib. He really enjoyed (a little too much) freedom at night to get up and play/read/get in mommy and daddy's bed every single night! He's much happier (and us too) to be back in his crib. So, the bottom bunk is for guests. My dad slept in it....and slept well! :)

cousin fun....

2011-03-27T21:38:00.002-04:00

Updates

2011-03-27T18:06:00.003-04:00

Boy do I need to update this! Life just keeps on going, doesn't it! Funny how it does that! :) So, here are a few things the kids and Chris and I have been doing... Ethan has been enjoying reading much more. He really is excited for spring soccer to begin. Everyday he and Hunter jump on the 4Wheeler and get the mail and make a few loops around the house! He is growing SO tall....everyone thinks he is in 3rd grade. He remains the tallest kid in his class. He is a great helper and a good example for his brother and sister AND Chris and I! He turns 7 next month and reminds me daily of his birthday month coming up! I am SO glad Ethan is a part of our family! He is ALWAYS the one in our family making us laugh and telling a joke! Alexis has really been something else lately! She is loving tumbling and her instructor says that she has one of the best 'donkey kicks' she has seen. She is constantly putting herself into some position at home and really has her bridge perfected! She has been coming up with some funny one liners lately like, "First and foremost, mother". Her reading is just amazing! She's reading Magic Tree House books and she's already read her Old Testament/New Testament children's bible and BOM! I have to keep reminding myself that she's only 5! She loves her brothers! Hunter adores her! Ethan misses her when she's not around! She makes us smile and we are blessed to have her in our family! She is 5 1/2 years old! Hunter is 22 months now! He is trouble with a capital T and knows it! He is so much fun! He weighs close to 30 lbs now! You'd never believe how much this boy can eat! He is so loving and gives us kisses and hugs whenever we ask for them and sometimes when we don't! He is such a loving and kind boy! His new thing lately is to wake up and say, "Hi Alexis, Hi Ethan, Hi Mommy, Hi Daddy" I just can't get enough of him! The other day I cleaned the bathroom top to bottom~ squeaky clean~ and he got in there and took ALL of the toliet paper off the rolls and scattered it all over the floor! SIGH! So, I gathered it up and shoved it in a basket for us to pull out as much as we need! That's all I can do! He is sleeping SO much better now that he is BACK in the crib! Chris is working REALLY REALLY hard. He has had a good semester so far! He is doing better the last little bit and I'm so proud of him! He is M.I.A. 24/7 except for a small amount of time! Boy do we eat him up when he's home though! The kids don't leave his side and Hunter and Alexis are playing horse with him every second they can! WE love our Daddy! I am doing well! Life is very busy, but there is just no other place I'd rather be! I love being able to spend time with the kids reading at night! Currently we are reading The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe! They love it and beg for 'one more chapter mom' when we stop for the night! It's so much fun to watch them grow and to make crafts, bake, garden, ect with them! They are such great helpers! We have a good time! I am working on a few things for myself too, believe it or not! I've began exercising and really am trying to stick to it! I enjoy getting out with friends when I can and chatting with mom's when the kids are playing! That is my mommy time right now! I'll take what I can get! I am just having so much fun raising my kids around family and teaching them the gospel! I know my Savior lives and loves me! I know I am a Daughter of God! All things are possible! I am so glad I have many friends and family around to share these experiences with! I am very much looking forward to General Conference for our Church next week! Young Women's Conference was AMAZING....So glad to be a part of such a wonderful organization! I will post pics soon!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2011-02-13T20:07:00.003-05:00

What a fun weekend we had here! Saturday was just perfect! We awoke and got ready for the day, doing a few of our 'Saturday chores' before heading over to a friends' home for lunch! They live on a farm and we had such a fantastic time seeing their new cattle, gathering the chicken eggs, and playing in the dirt pile! The kids were in heaven. I was in heaven too, being able to visit with one of my friends! :) It was wonderful!

We came home and found a package waiting for us from G-ma and G-pa Jeppson from UT! The kids really really enjoyed that! They are so creative in sending 'fun' things the kids love! Alexis just wouldn't put her new princess journal with feathered pen down! So cute! Thank you so much!

Then I loaded the kids to the neighbor's home who graciously watched them so Chris and I could have a Valentine's dinner 'date'! It was just perfect. We really don't get to spend the time together these days, it was so wonderful just to sit and chat! I love you Chris. Thank you Chesters for watching the kids!

Today was wonderful! I have really needed the last 2 Sundays...I completely felt like the Sunday School( Gospel Doctrine) class was meant just for me and I'm so thankful I was in attendance! Chris came home and I made Shepards Pie, a simple but yummy meal all enjoyed! We played some games ( we LOVE games over here)!!! Great afternoon home hanging out and being together!

Saturday fun...

2011-02-05T20:33:00.004-05:00

So this morning I arose from my slumber and decided to make a big breakfast! Soon enough, the smell of bacon awakened everyone except my exhausted husband, whom I let sleep until breakfast was all cooked! I was watching a friends little boy, James, whose such a good boy. We all had bacon, pancakes, and scrambled eggs with cheese! YUMMY! The kids enjoyed it thoroughly...ate almost everything! Chris then left to study, and after contimplating on what to do with my day, I decided to go to the Hburg Children's Museum. We ran into a few people we know, which happens quite frequently! Decided to eat out at Chick-fil-A and also ran into some friends from our church! YAY! It was me and the 4 kids...but it was a very fun time! The kids were very good! With everyone's belly full, I took the long way home so they could get a rest and came home to play here! What a great day! I'm very tired though and am thinking I'll curl up with the Ensign in bed and see how far I make it before I fall asleep! I think the kids had a FUN and HAPPY day! :)

Christmas a few days later in MD!

2011-02-04T23:01:00.003-05:00

Christmas....our home!

2011-02-04T22:49:00.004-05:00

This Christmas was spent at home. It was one of my favorite memories of the entire year. We focused this year on family traditions. We spent time together. We drove to see the Christmas lights, we watched the Polar Express on Christmas Eve, we read Luke 2 and talked about Baby Jesus being born. I loved that we had the Little Peoplle nativity set for the kids to play with and sing and rock baby Jesus. We each shared our testimony of the love we have for the Savior. I really just loved being together and spending time together just the 5 of us! It was very memorable! Christmas morning we made a big breakfast and had the kids wait so we could SKPE Chris' family in UT! We were able to talk for over 2 hours. It was wonderful! I really felt so connected and very close, even those we are in VA and they are in UT! It was so relaxing and wonderful! We called and spoke with my family as well. We spoke with Chris' brother on a mission that evening. It was truly a memorable Christmas!

CHRIS update!

2011-02-04T22:12:00.006-05:00

So the first semester is over and checked off our 'list'. 6 more semesters to go! Chris has learned so much and although he has alot more learning to do before he's finished, he enjoys what he's doing and that makes me happy! The kids don't miss a prayer asking Heavenly Father to bless their Daddy with help on tests or a blessing to get home safely (out late nights studying). I remind them often that Daddy is going to back school so that he can get a better job and support us when he's finished. I think the kids understand. Of course we miss him terribly, but in the end, it will all be worth it! We love our DADDY! :)

more January....

2011-02-04T21:55:00.003-05:00

Hunter loves to give kisses to EVERYONE who will take one! I take them all the time! :)

Alexis working on her flexibility with her bridge making! We are so proud of her! She really enjoys tumbling and is really good at it!

2011-02-04T21:40:00.002-05:00

A few weekends ago about 5 inches of snow feel and the kids had a blast! :)

THANK YOU GRANDPARENTS Jeppson and Hunt for the 4 wheeler Christmas gift! It IS an absolute here! :)

January...

2011-02-04T15:01:00.007-05:00

Jan 20-22nd was spent in Maryland....celebrating Christina's 29th Birthday and Haley's 9th Birthday. We had a very enjoyable evening at Christina's home on Friday night and went to the Cheesecake Factory on Saturday for lunch. YUM YUM!

Mom and Dad...one is always talking when I snap the picture!

Happy 29th Little Sister! :) I love you!

The older kids were absolutely elated b/c they got to sit in a booth all to themselves and order whatever they wanted (well, somewhat!)! :)

Hunter loves this Zebra toy.... and he loves to play with the Wii too!

Eatting birthday cake on Friday night.

Hunter and Uncle David!

Say Cheese!

We did get about 5 inches of snow so the kids loved playing in it! They even helped me shovel! YAY!

Alexis loves her tumbling class! She wanted to do something just her, so we decided to put her in a class just down the road here. She really loves it and is home practicing her donkey kicks everyday! :)

I love this picture!
Ethan lost this top 2 teeth in 2 days this month! He wanted daddy to pull them and he sure wasn't scared! What a brave boy! :)
Hunter 20 months...usually keeps us on our toes...and with LAUGHTER!

FISH ANYONE?

This is Hunter's cheesy grin....LOVE IT!

A much needed update!

2011-02-04T14:50:00.002-05:00

So, I am at a loss when I think of how behind I am with this blog...but it's how I journal, so it must be done and I WILL catch up....so here goes!
Just today we were all sitting at the kitchen table and Alexis sings out...." My heart belongs to Mommy and Ethan...." I was cracking up. Chris comes around the corner and says, "Hey, what about me..." Alexis looks at him and smiles, saying, "Well, Daddy! I love you!" It was the sweetest thing...

Alexis' sayings....

2010-10-04T20:46:00.002-04:00

Today Alexis and I (and Hunter) were in the kitchen making lunch. Alexis was playing with the cheese, she loves cheese! Out of the blue, she says to me:
Alexis: Momma (I love that she calls me mamma!) I want to grow my hair out long for Locks of Love like Haley did.
Me: Alexis, that's so nice of you to think of other kids. What made you decide to do that?
Alexis: Well, (then there was a pause) because I want to give my hair to daddy, (with another pause), because he doesn't have any!
Me: Alexis, I love you!
I seriously had to run to the bathroom I was laughing so hard! Poor daddy, yes, he doesn't have much hair left! But, he looks great with it short! And, Alexis is just so thoughtful and sensitive to little things like this! She's my tenderheart child!
Not much else is going on here! The kids are all growing and getting taller! Chris is still studying hard for school. I'm here...just doing what I do best! I love being a momma! :)

The past few nights...

2010-09-21T21:14:00.002-04:00

Hunter has been squeazing his way into the computer chair and pretending to type on the computer the past few days! He just thinks he can get into anything! He makes us all laugh...that's for sure! He's just a busy little boy!

September days!

2010-09-21T20:59:00.003-04:00

Hunter is ALWAYS up to something these days! He is almost 16 months....at this age, he's the busiest of the kids so far! Well, that I remember anyway! Look at what he's been up to recently!

We finally got rid of our old piano....thank you goodwill...hopefully it will be someone's prize ...now we have the digital where the old one was and it opens up our family room much more! The kids thought they better take a picture of it because they would miss it! They are so funny!

We went to my piano teachers wedding. Here are a few pics of the event!

Alexis First Fieldtrip....Apple Orchard

2010-09-16T20:30:00.003-04:00

Alexis took her first fieldtrip this year at preschool to the Apple Orchard. She had a great time. I was not able to go with her...pretty sure she was the only kiddo without a parent or grandparent... they don't allow siblings to go. :( She was really excited though and had a great time. Didn't stop talking about it all day! She has opened up so much this year and has a 'best friend' Ashlynn in her class. It's so fun to watch her. I can't believe how much she is growing up.
Here are a few pictures.

Ethan is really adjusting well to first grade! He is really enjoying to read....finally. It's so great to see him...what progress he has made! We are so proud of both of them. Tonight when Ethan was doing his homework, I brought Alexis her handwriting book for Kindergarteners and she says, "Yeah, I love homework!" She is such a funny! I have to hide it so she doesn't sit and do every page! She loves to play school and really anything to do with school. :)
Hunter is growing like a weed. He is such a joy to us all! He's of course into everything and look out...he'll be on top of anything in about 30 seconds flat if your not right behind him! His latest thing is he climbs onto the computer chair, pulls out the keyboard and types ...and then trys to push the mouse buttons on the top. When I say, "Hunter, please get down!" He just grins ear to ear and giggles showing ALL of his teeth! It's really the cutest thing!

FUN day with 4 kids...and friends!

2010-08-28T21:25:00.003-04:00

Today I watched a sweet little boy! He's about 5 months older than Hunter! It was a fun day! We went crabbing for crayfish and caterpillars, and worms, (basically anything that moves) and fed fish with bread, played at the playground, ate lunch, back outside for more play, play, play!

First day of school....

2010-08-28T21:01:00.006-04:00

First day of school for ETHAN....August 23rd! FIRST GRADE!!!! He was excited, can you tell?!?

First day of school for DADDY....

First day of school for ALEXIS...August 24th

Hunter enjoying the quiet!!!
heehee: It's tough being so cute!

Vacation in DELAWARE!!!

2010-08-28T20:42:00.008-04:00

July was also the first vacation we took with just our family for a few days. We went to my parents' home in Delaware at Bethany Beach....talk about fun! The kids loved it and so did Chris and I! Mys sister and kids and my mom came down late Thursday to spend 1 day with us. We went to Assoteque Island to see the wild ponies, to BAJA to ride some rides, Ocean City, and Bethany borderwalk for FRIES and the concerts!

July was quite a busy month

2010-08-28T20:20:00.005-04:00

So, I know. It's been way too long, but what can I say, it's been such a FUN summer and just not enough time in the day sometimes! So, here's a quick run down of what we've been up to!
July:
Went to a family reunion in WV

Went to the Baltimore Aquarium!

More summertime fun....

2010-07-14T22:31:00.001-04:00

Ethan's first 2 lost teeth!!!

2010-07-14T22:29:00.001-04:00

Ethan and Alexis swimming lessons...

2010-07-14T22:26:00.002-04:00

What a ride....

2010-07-04T19:27:00.002-04:00

I am very sorry for not posting sooner! What a busy busy time in our lives right now, but also what a fun time! We have worked alot but I do feel like we have played more! I will post picks later on in the week of what the past month has brought our way, but until then..... this is what we have been up to:

Ethan has lost another tooth. It was the second middle. So now he has the bottom 2 middle teeth missing. His adult tooth is beginning to show now from the first tooth he lost! His smile is priceless! I love it! The tooth fairy did come for another visit and left a few surprises Ethan was excited about! :) He also finished swimming lessons and absolutely loves the pool. His is definiatly a little fish! He loves to throw those water balls and coins and let them drop to the bottom of the 4 ft and then goes and gets them. He does really well at it! He is looking pretty tan, even with sunscreen applications!

Alexis is also doing very well~ she loves to read and is very good at it! She trys everyday to show me her 'loose tooth' which is not loose at all! She really tries to keep up with Ethan in every way and can't wait til the tooth fairy will visit her! Silly girl, :) !! She also finished swimming lessons and is very good at it! Once you pull her away from the wall, she really loves it! :) She is loving her brothers and really enjoys all the play time this summer!

Hunter is getting his 1 year molars now! He really enjoys the pool too! Since his ear tubes, he has really eaten better, slept much better(through the night now), and is such a happy big boy! We love him so much! He is such an easy baby, just happy to be doing whatever it is we are doing that day, just give him his naps and he is a happy boy! He has started running now!

Life for us mommy and daddy has been such a joyous one! We have definiatly found more days to 'be together as a family' this past month. We have honestly cherished the time with each other and our kids! We are SO blessed. Yes, things have gone wrong, like the washing machine dying and the purchasing a new one which was completely wonderful and aweful (the pricetag) but oh well! We have been:
-to the various parks in the area with our friends
-to the various libraries in the area for reading/story time each week
-to the Washington DC zoo
-to the Washington DC temple and visitor's center
-biking around our neighboorhoods and bike trails
-up to Massenutten Waterpark for the kids 'free day'! The kids thought this was amazing- they were so excited, especially Alexis. She was jumping up and down and getting red in the face with excitement! Love just thinking about it! Their favorite things were the wave pool, water slides, tube slides, and lazy river!
-camping out on the deck! :)
-camping in the tent in our room! :)
-Muppets in Space for the free movie at the local movie theater!
-saw Toy Story 3
-went everyday to Girls camp with mom, and had an absolute blast with the fire every night!
....what a fun month! Mom is still doing her piano each week or so and dad is having fun cooking up some concoctions which mostly have been delicious! THANKS DAD! :) We are looking forward to some of the other little things we have planned this summer! Luckily, most of what we have done so far has been free! That's been such a great little blessing! It has really been quite the ride!

SURPRISE!!!

2010-05-29T21:00:00.003-04:00

So this morning was nothing unusual. Up and out of bed by 7am, kids hungry...Chris made yummy breakfast and did chores~cleaned bathrooms and kitchen. Chris had vaccumed yesterday and clean up...no wonder! I was almost ready for the day when the doorbell rang...and it was Breanna, Haley , little Dave and Aunt Christina! I was so surprised! YAY! I couldn't believe it! What a great surprise!! After we visited a little bit, we went to the Green Valley Book Fair, lunch at Cici's, of course a Walmsrt run, home for some playtime, sprinklers, walk around the block with bikes and scooters, then dinner and cleanup....all before everyone left! WOW! What a great day!
Christina is my best friend....my sister forever! I love her and don't see her as much as I would like to, but when we do see each other, we do have fun! Thank you Christina for making the trip! Enjoy the pics....

Some of my favorites recently...more pics....

2010-05-27T21:20:00.004-04:00

Today, Hunter got tubes b/c of constant fluid in his ears and 7 ear infections since birth, not to mention all the crazy hours of sleepless nights....so I hope this helps. It sure has made a difference today. He has been happy and babbling ALL day long! It's been great! I think he can hear much clearer now. These were taken today....

These were taken a few days ago....

Happy Birthday Hunter

2010-05-27T21:09:00.004-04:00

Hunter turned one on the 24th. I just can't believe it! What a year it has been. I am completely shocked at how fast it has gone. I think that with each child, the year goes by faster! Makes me sad! But, Hunter, being the 3rd child, has been such a blessing to our family. Besides not really sleeping through the night but about 2 weeks since birth, he has been the perfect child. He's fun, makes us all laugh, easy going, and completely loveable! His personality is so much like Ethan, he's always smiling and happy all the time! He is also quite the charmer. Unlike any of the other kids, he will let just about anyone hold him. Most of the time, he wants back soon, but then he makes it a game, going from one person to the other. He loves to give wet kisses and LOVES TO SNUGGLE! He has been sick with many ear infections and almost 1 entire year of waking up several times a night...but ear tubes were placed today...so, hopefully it helps! We love you little buddy! Happy Birthday! We celebrated on the 22nd with family. Enjoy some pics...

May Memories....and moments

2010-05-27T20:31:00.003-04:00

So I am way out of date with May. Since coming home from Utah, things have been a little busy. Here's an update!
Mother's Day was fantastic this year. We celebrated on Saturday b/c I had to work on Sunday. The kids and Chris surprised me with a 1 hour massage! It was a little piece of heaven! After a Costco run for food, flowers, and lunch, I finally used my gift from Christmas from work and received a pedicure! I didn't cook, clean, anything! Even the kids helped daddy with dishes and setting the table! What great kids! I got many kisses of all wetness (as Lexi puts it) from daddy, Ethan, Alexis and Hunter! Thank you for making me feel really special. I love you!

Ethan lost his first tooth! It was wiggly for quite some time and with each day, he was wiggling it more and more, till Chris said, "Let me see...." and he pulled it out. Ethan said it didn't even hurt. It was time. And within several days, his new adult tooth was coming in! I love looking at him with his little gap at the bottom. It's the middle, bottom right tooth. He's growing up and getting so big. I really love his smile! What a sweet-heart of a boy! Today he told me he was 'handsome'! You are handsome, I told him....what a boy!!!

Hunter began walking on May 11th! He was cruising the furniture up til this day. He began with about 4 or 5 steps on this day and then within a matter of 1 week, was really walking up and down the hallway and suddenly into everything! I love it though. He makes me so happy. His little facial expressions are priceless! He is so proud of himself. I love when we are excited when he's done something and he'll plop right down on the floor and begin clapping, with the fullest grin smile on his little face! Just love it!

Alexis had her end of the year program on the 23rd. Her first year of preschool behind her! Can't believe it! What a year. She has really blossomed! She has learned how to read this year. That's right! She's only 4 1/2!! She can write well too. She loves to learn and we are so proud of her! Now, she needs to be challenged and come out of her shell alittle bit! She doesn't really play with anyone at school, mostly, she loves to read and do things by herself. Although, she can't get enough of Ethan and all her buddies in the neighborhood! Silly girl! We are all excited to have a break for the summer!

Then Alexis had her 'picnic' on the 25th....Fun for everyone!!!

Utah Trip part 4

2010-05-16T22:09:00.004-04:00

Tuesday was also a very fun day! We did a little more boondocks, family fun center in the morning to use up the rest of our card money, and then little shopping~ thank you grandma for watching the kids! Then Vicki watched the kids while everyone that could went to the Bountiful Temple! What a great experience. I know it was one that we all will remember. Then we came home and had a yummy dinner and visited with some family that came over, Chris' uncle and aunt. It was lots of fun to stay up and chat and visit way too late, but hey, we were on vacation! :)

Wednesday was nearing the end of our trip. We ate at Village Inn for breakfast and then headed to Provo to drop Joshua off at the MTC. It was a bitter sweet moment. Then we went to Nick and Emily's house to visit and relax before eatting at the Mayan. The Mayan is an old High School redone mexican style with a pool and divers and thunder/lightening. It's quite the atmosphere, but they redid their menu and the prices are a bit ridiculous!!! Anyway, then we headed to Natalie's apartment to see it, by this time the kids were asleep in the vehicle! We then stopped off at Andrea's new salon, which was amazing, before heading back to Grandma's house to finish packing and travel to the airport to fly home. Chris and I had a red-eye flight, which was to leave at 11:38 but actually took off after 3am! We landed at JFK at 9am, missing our connecting flight! We were tired to say the least! But, we took off about 5pm in JFK and landed safely in Richmond. We got our luggage and our van and were finally home a little after 10pm! What a day!!! Saying good bye was not easy, but we will visit again as soon as we can...good bye for now! This was a trip the kids will remember forever! A special thanks to MRS. TANNER for making this trip possible!!!

Utah Trip part 3

2010-05-16T21:42:00.005-04:00

Monday we celebrated Ethan's 6th Birthday by doing what HE wanted to do. Ethan loves ice skating...and he's good at it. With only going one other time with the cousins here in MD, he really was excited to be able to do this in UTAH with family. It was quite a day! We shopped in the AM for a bit, then went ice skating. Then we headed to a park for a bit that Grandma wanted to take us to~ it was really neat! Everything was a giant castle! Then we went to Boondocks, the family fun haven for kids, where we rode go-karts, bumber boats with squirt guns(those were really fun), bowling, laser tag, arcades gallore!! It was such a fun place in there to say the least! Then we headed over to Johnny and Andrea's for a BBQ and cake...the kids were ready for bed when we got home!

Utah Trip part 2

2010-05-16T21:17:00.005-04:00

Saturday....we went four wheeling at the 'B' in Bountiful...beautiful! We hit snow about 1/2 way up the mountain! We all had a blast...and everyone of the kids came but 1, so we really enjoyed eachother's company! Ethan and Alexis especially enjoyed their ride. Ethan and Uncle Johnny enjoyed going on little trips while the rest of us were finishing our picnic lunch. They even found a lawn mower and 'towed' it back! The things people drop off in the mountain! SHEESH!

Sunday was Ethan's 6th Birthday and Josh's fairwell. We went to Temple Square in the morning with the kids and Vicki and watched 'Music and the Spoken Word,' which was awesome! The grounds were beautiful! After taking some pics, we went to church for Josh's fairwell talk! He did a great job and the church was packed! Of course it was with all the family AND friends Josh has...and he was nervous not many would come! Silly boy! Although Hunter visited the MD's office because of fever and fussiness, which turned out to be a double ear infection (what we thought), the rest of the day was really nice spent with family and friends!!!

'

Here are some family/friend pics!

UTAH TRIP part 1

2010-05-11T20:43:00.004-04:00

So, I know I'm just now getting to this, but it's been really crazy busy since we've gotten home! Here are some of the fun things we got to do while in Utah for 8 days....
Wednesday....
Flying standby went great...we got on all our flights fine! We landed in SLC and was home at Grandma's and Grandpa's house by 6pm. We ate Chicken Enchilada's~yummy and pretty much got ready for bed! We were pretty pooped~ us AND the kids!!! Chris and I left our house at 5AM EST and our flight left at 10:45ish to JFK with a 3 hour layover, but all went great! Of course the kids loved flying and watching everything that was happening outside on the runway and loading docks!

Yes, it was Chris' idea to fly in our PJ's and yep, it was comfortable!!!

Thursday
We went to the Bountiful Temple in the morning. It was SO wonderful to be in the temple! Chris and I really enjoyed the scenery; the flowers and grounds were gorgeous! It was a beautiful sunny day and being up on the mountainside, we could see the snowcapped mountains all the way to Draper!! It was beautiful.
After a little bit of shopping, we came home and ate some lunch before heading out to our friends, the BENSON's for a visit! Oh how we miss our friends there. It was fantastic to visit with Jen! It was like old times!!!
We then took family pictures with the entire Jeppson family kids~ there are 14 of us now! SHEESH! :) I haven't gotten any pics yet to post, but when I do, I'll post them!

Friday....
Friday Chris wanted to take the kids up to Odgen, so we road the train, the Frontrunner. It's a double decker train. The kids loved it!!!

We took the kids to the OGDEN train museum...which was really fun! They had some interesting things for the kids to do and Ethan loved it! Alexis got a bit tired and wanted to be carried some, but everyone really enjoyed the visit there...and the train ride!

Here are the kids Easter pictures....

2010-04-11T12:36:00.003-04:00

THANK YOU GRANDMA!!!!

This is what we did today!!

2010-04-10T20:14:00.008-04:00

Ethan's favorite part was the giraffe, which has a tongue so long and slimy, Ethan was really tickled about feeding them. Alexis' favorite part was the ostrich. She really enjoyed holding the ostrich egg, which was about 15lbs, 1/2 inch thick shell--weight and shape of a cannonball. She enjoyed feeding them and then watching them run with their crooked necks. Daddy's favorite part was playing with the 10ft snake. Her name was Bella, a 10 ft python that would get up to 18 ft. long. Mommy's favorite part was feeding the camels. They were really soft and very furry. One's name was April. She grabbed Alexis food bucket and put the entire bucket in her mouth, turned it upside down so that she ate all the food, and then she spit out the bucket. RIGHT IN FRONT OF OUR EYES! It was AMAZING! We also saw moneys, all types of birds, tigers.... I felt like we were in the LION KING! It was just so amazing! Our friends, the Dight's, went with us. We all drove down in our van, only 45 minutes or so from Harrisonburg. It was AWESOME! This was our first time going there and WOW! It's an experience we ALL will remember! Enjoy....

Virginia Safari Park....

Visit to MD....

2010-04-08T09:21:00.003-04:00

The kids and I went for a quick visit to MD to see the grandparents and counsins and have some fun for a few days last week. It was really needed and the kids had a blast!

Hunter's first swinging experience

2010-04-08T09:09:00.003-04:00

These were taken the end of March....the weather has been beautiful here. Hunter, of course, just loved being outside in the swing. He was all smiles as you can tell...

Saturday of FUN!!!!

2010-03-20T21:13:00.002-04:00

The past few days have been gorgeous! Sunny and warm. The kids have been excited for the newness of Spring. Easter is going to be here before we know it! Ethan, Alexis and Hunter are growing so much and everday, they make me laugh, cry and everything in between!!! :) Chris and I painted Alexis' room today and we also got a new kitchen table and chairs! YAY! The first one since we were married! For those of you that can remember, our original table and chairs set was bought for $40 at a neighbor of Chris' parents and as we left INDIANA about 4 years ago, the table came with us while the chairs were left. I'll just say it's wonderful to have a set now!!! :) Alexis loves her room. It's a light pink color. Looks great! I'll post pictures when it's all done, hopefully by the end of the week!!!
My nephew came to visit today. We were outside nearly all day! It was 72ish outside and gorgeous! The kids loved the park, ice cream, out to dinner, painting this morning, and mam-mah coming to visit for the day! They went to bed right on time without any FUSS too! :0
Enjoy the pics....

happy days are here....

2010-03-11T09:08:00.003-05:00

So for the past week and a half each one of the kids has had the stomach bug! First Ethan, then Hunter and now Alexis. Yesterday was rough, but she has not thrown up yet today nor her dinner last night! So, that's great! Poor her! She I think has gotten the worst of it....she crys everytime she goes to the bathroom. Hopefully, the kids are now on the mend and feeling better! :) Here are a few random pics we have been taking....enjoy!

SPRING is in the air....

2010-03-09T20:11:00.003-05:00

YAH!!!! I think this 20 inches of snow everytime it snows is LONG GONE!!!! This week is to be 60+* EVERYDAY of the week! LOVE IT! I'm ready for mulch and flowers decorating!!!!
HERE are some pictures!!!!

Yummy Suckers...

2010-03-06T22:50:00.001-05:00

Spending the day in C'ville...

2010-03-06T22:40:00.003-05:00

I know this is crazy and we've almost lived here for 2 years, but today was my first get away to Charlottesville! Daddy had to sleep, and so we packed it up with Mammah and out the door we went! It was really fun. We ate lunch at 5 guys, which Ethan and Alexis love b/c these kids absolutely love BURGERS and FRIES!! Then we went to the Children's Museum and played and learned some new facts before heading over for some ice cream. It was a sunny day. There were tons of dogs on leashes that the kids, including Hunter loved petting! People were playing and singing their guitars and you would have thought it was spring with everyone in short-sleeved shirts! Well, I guess it was 47* today! Enjoy the pics!

The Lorax

2010-03-06T22:30:00.006-05:00

Ethan was in his first play at school. The month of March is reading month and so the kindergarten through second grade performed Dr. Seuss' THE LORAX. Ethan played the part of a brown barbaloot! He did a fantastic job. It was really fun to get to go to his school with our whole family and eat dinner there and then watch a play! WAY TO GO ETHAN!
WE mostly got his play on video, but here are a few pictures of the evening!

Pinewood Derby Racers....

2010-03-06T22:22:00.002-05:00

The pinewood derby race went great! Aside for a few small things, all participants had awesome cars, each one very unique! It was so fun and exciting to see the girls through each step of the process to their completed creations! The cutting is definately one step I will NEVER forget! What memories! Although the end result was a YM winner....of the race, I am totally proud of each girl who worked really, really hard to make their car their own! Here are some pics... and Ethan and Alexis made their own cars too....it was very exciting to watch Ethan get into this....some sight for the future! :)

Rest of family....

2010-03-01T20:41:00.002-05:00

Ethan is learning how to read. He's doing really well in kindergarten and although I know there are kids ahead of him, for him he's doing well. He knows all of his sight words and really does work hard at his homework. He does do his homework easier with dad than mom, I don't know why, but he does. Anyway, he'll be 6 next month and I just can't believe it! He is a joy to our family. He is a good helper and trys really hard to do what's right. He loves any activity that is physical and he's excited about swimming lessons this spring. I am very proud of him.
Alexis is also learning how to read. She can sound out words and loves to read. She also knows all of Ethan's sight words and can write her name very well now! She is a great helper and loves to make Hunter laugh. She also loves her Ethan and gives him hugs all the time, even when Ethan doesn't want her to! We are very blessed to have her in our family also.
Last week was very busy for us, again. This week is much lighter of a schedule. Hopefully I can get some pics on here. :)

Happy 9 Month Hunter boy

2010-03-01T20:33:00.002-05:00

Hunter turned 9 months already on the 24th of Febuary! I can't believe it! He's already crawling, standing by himself for a few seconds and pulling himself up on everything and trying to cruise the couch! He's just a little ball of smiles all the time with ticklish spots on his thighs, belly, armpits really ticklish!!! and bottom of his feet! He really really does look just like Ethan's baby pictures! You can tell he's one of us. :) Ethan and Alexis adore him and he brings so much happiness into our family! Hunter, Happy 9 month Birthday! With all 6 teeth showing with each smile, he's such a little charmer. He is finally beginning to get on a schedule of sleeping, but he still is getting up 1-2 times each night. He goes to bed around 9ish and is up somewhere between 1-4 and then about 6ish. I long for 1 night of full sleep, but I am used to it, guess you would say. Hunter loves to eat table food: oatmeal, cheerios, anything small that he can pick up with his fingers! He is good at playing in the living room with whatever is around him. I love when he goes to his bucket full of toys and one by one takes each one out, shakes it, and then tosses it out and retrieves a new one! We are all very happy he is a part of our family!

Rollerskating, anyone?

2010-02-23T22:09:00.002-05:00

Tonight was our church activity of rollerskating! TOTALLY FUN!!! The kids absolutely loved it! Ethan was out there with rollerblades and Alexis and I had rollerskates on! They are always surprising me with the talent they have. Ethan is such a go-getter! He just gets right out there and has at it! Alexis did too, even her timid self just got right out there and when I had to go and check on Hunter, she was going around all by herself and the walker! I even took Hunter in his stroller b/c it was not very crowded at all, which was great! Sorry, no pictures b/c I forgot to take the camera, go figure! But, what a fun night! :)

2 feet of snow anyone...

2010-02-07T17:15:00.003-05:00

So, we just got another 2 feet of snow here! Can you believe it? I'm still shocked! Needless to say, tomorrow, we are headed off to by snowsuits, boots, and warm gloves. The jeans and make shift 'snow clothes' are just not working out for this winter! The funny thing is, Tuesday night, they are calling for another 6 inches!!!! SHEESH! The kids are loving it! The snow comes up to Alexis' belly roughly! It's crazy! In waking up this am, Ethan was reminded that today is Sunday and that church is cancelled...again....and then he tells me, "Mom, and so tomorrow is Monday. That means we have NO SCHOOL!!!" Little stinker! The kids missed all week last week b/c of the snow and so we shall see what happens this week!

Ice Skating- Jan 23 2010

2010-02-05T14:58:00.003-05:00

Ice skating for the first time....Ethan and Alexis did AWESOME! What fun!!!

January Fun....

2010-02-05T14:55:00.000-05:00

Dec. 19th....2 feet of snow!!!

2010-02-05T14:53:00.001-05:00

Christmas with family

2010-02-05T14:47:00.001-05:00

Random Dec. pictures

2010-02-05T14:44:00.000-05:00

ENJOY SOME PICS...

2010-02-05T14:37:00.004-05:00

ACTIVITIES WE HAVE DONE...

2010-02-02T21:18:00.002-05:00

Ethan and Alexis has their first try at ice skating last weekend! THEY DID GREAT! Ethan is a natural according to my brother in law...who thinks we need to get Ethan in an ice hockey team or something! That was a really fun activity!
Hunter has been crawling all over the place! In just a short week and a day, this kid can really move! :)

Updates in a long post....

2010-02-02T20:33:00.004-05:00

So, all I have to say is We have been extremely busy....but hey, who hasn't with 3 kids and both parents working almost full time jobs, eh?!?
Christmas was awesome. The kids really really enjoyed it! We cut down our own tree and the kids decorated it about 10 times with all the games they played of 'hide and seek ornaments'! It was a simple Christmas, the ones I like. Chris worked the morning shift, so we arose at 5AM to 'Santa's come....we have presents!!!' Ethan popped right up and Alexis was hilarous saying, I'm too tired....let's sleep a little longer! It was a good Christmas. They got books, Nurf guns, clothes, puzzles, movies, piggybanks, doll and new stroller, remote control helicopter....it was good for them. Chris and I got a new duvet, power drill, and new clippers to cut hair!
We were able to spend some time at my parents' house and do Christmas up there for a few days together~ all 5 of us went, which was GREAT! The Polar Express train is always a hit with the kids...and mammah and pappap spoil the 6 grandkids too much! We were able to stop at the temple on the way up for a visit too, which was nice!
The month of January has been a fast one...our computer crashed....and so that took almost 2 weeks before we were up and running and we have worked a lot to pay for airline tickets to UT sometime in March/April for Chris' brother's mission farewell to NEW HAMPSHIRE!!! He'll leave April 28th...my parents 37th wedding anniversary! CRAZY! In the mean time, we have had a few weekends full of snow....we had 2 feet of snow that fell over about 30 hours or so....the kids were out of school 1 1/2 days for that...then this past weekend we had about 6 inches or so. The kids have been out of school yesterday and today AND b/c there is another 2-3 inches of NEW snow right now...school is closed for tomorrow! IT'S been a little crazy with everyone home but the kids have done tons of sled riding! I love watching them. The sled we bought has definitely been put to great use this winter! The funny thing is this weekend, we are to get 2-3 feet more of snow! YIKES! We shall see.....I'll post pics soon! Sorry for the long update, but I'm shocked I haven't updated in so long....such is life sometimes, I guess. OH, and I'm taking piano lessons and LOVING IT! We also bought a digital piano! :)
Ethan is reading more and more each day! Alexis is right up with Ethan, reading better and better, sounding out words and everything! Hunter has 6 teeth now and began crawling!!! AHAHAHA! It's time to baby proof the house! :)

Merry Christmas....

2009-12-07T14:46:00.003-05:00

Some of you will be receiving your Christmas card for 2009 this week. We kept it down to a minimum this year because so many of you are on email/blog/facebook!!
Merry Christmas 2009!
To sum up the year, “We worked too much, slept too little, and enjoyed our kids as much as possible.” Two brilliantly bright spots in our year were the birth of Hunter Kade on May 24th and my acceptance into the physician assistance program at James Madison University, made official just after Thanksgiving. Eight days overdue and 2 inductions later, Hunter was born weighing 8 lbs 5 oz and was stretched to 19 ½ inches long. Now that he’s 6 months old and 21 pounds, we can’t get enough of him. We love when Chandra’s mom, Martha, carries him over her shoulder like a sack of potatoes since holding him in front of her throws her off balance. He rolls over, sits up, pinches and scratches, and loves to laugh. Alexis can get him to giggle almost on command. Although he still has no teeth and hardly any hair, he is extremely loveable.
Alexis Marie turned 4 years old in October. She attends pre-school during the mornings every Tuesday and Thursday. She helps Ethan with his homework and the ultimate game seems to be slapping down Ethan’s sight word flash cards and having those two try to say the word quicker than the other…silly kids! She is also fond of singing in the van, the bathroom, throughout the house. She often will say a hilarious one-liner and keeps us rolling in laughter! She is quick to tear up when someone speaks harshly and equally quick to wrap her arms around us regardless of who is hurt. She is such a sweetheart!
Ethan Christopher turned 5 in April and is in kindergarten. He enjoys school and works on many projects and songs which he brings home to share! He has many friends in class and enjoys seeing them and spending time in school with them. He likes to learn lines from songs on the radio and sing them repeatedly. He usually plays well with Alexis, who idolizes him, as long as he gets the better end of the deal! He likes to help with the dishes and even made us peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch recently. He is eager to help out with things he feels he is now big enough to handle. We are very grateful to have him in our family.
Our address will remain the same for the next few years, as will our phone and email. We hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!

Look what dropped our way today....

2009-12-05T20:16:00.006-05:00

SNOW~ about 5 inches total! Fun, fun, fun! Chris and I decided to go to the Christmas Tree Farm and hike and cut down our own tree this year. It was awesome, especially in the snow. The little kids and big kids had a great day! Enjoy the pics...

What a good looking tree Ethan and Alexis picked out. Chris cut it down. Hunter and I supervised! :)

Hunter fun

2009-12-04T13:51:00.003-05:00

I'm so glad this hat, which Ethan and Alexis wore when they were little, fits Hunter this year!

PRUNES, ANYONE?

Thanksgiving fun!

2009-12-04T13:13:00.002-05:00

My mom and dad came for Thanksgiving. We went to my cousin's house and had a feast! The food was delicious and spending time with family and friends was very enjoyable. A great time was had by all! We missed a special someone, but I know that she is having her own feast in heaven!

Christina and her kids came later on that night! We had such a blast on Friday with a little shopping in the early am, the children's museum later on in the day and a great dinner that evening.

MAIL....

2009-11-28T13:21:00.004-05:00

So, Chris ran to get the mail today....and he just barely called me at work...
"JMU is pleased to announce that CHRISTOPHER HAL JEPPSON has been extended a seat in the Aug 2010 PA School! CONGRATS!"
Yes- it's our time to finish and finish hard....and then move on.
I am sitting here at work crying as I write this! THANK YOU to all family and friends! YOU helped us to make this possible! Thank you for all your fasting, prayers, ect..... Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
YES!!!
You have to know that Ethan and Alexis have been saying in their prayers..."Please Heavenly Father, please bless daddy to get into PA school so we can fly to Utah to visit Grandma and Grandpa." If one forgets, the other sternly reminds him/her that they forgot to pray for daddy's pa school! IT'S the cutest thing!

It's Official!

2009-11-25T16:07:00.003-05:00

Hunter is 21lbs even and is in the 95% for weight! HAHAHAH! Poor kid got 5 shots today! What a trooper!
Ethan and Alexis held on to Mam-Maw's leg for about 5 whole minutes when she got here, and chanted her name like she scored the winning point on their team!
Thanksgiving is tomorrow and the entire house smells like yummy pumkin!
My dad killed a bambi and so we have lots of deer meat....yummy! We love it and use it in tons of recipes! THANK YOU DAD!!
I love my family!

Hunter 6 months...Ethan 5 1/2 Years....

2009-11-24T21:28:00.003-05:00

Hunter....I can't believe that you are already 6 months old today. It seems like just yesterday, you were kicking my ribs and I was up and down to the bathroom half the night! Now look at you....big boy with a smile so wide- almost ear to ear. Your giggle makes me laugh and you love to spit and taste new foods....peas, squash, sweet potatoes, and green beans, oh my!!! You love your mommy and hold on to her clothes tightly!!! You babble and are very curious looking all around your surroundings! You love your daddy and sister and brother too! Alexis can make you laugh at just about anything. She loves you and showers you with hugs and kisses all the time. Ethan loves to hold you and play piano with you. As you can sit up now for short periods of time, you enjoy playing on the floor and reading books....they taste yummy....and are getting marked up with all your wetness! :) You are loved and are such a huge blessing to your family!
Ethan, what a great example and such a good young boy you are turning into. You are such a big big help to mommy....helping in the kitchen with setting the table, cooking, mixing things together, playing train with Alexis: coloring, puzzles, school, drawing, reading short books. You know all your sight words...and are a great little reader these days! Mommy and daddy are SO proud of you. We are very blessed you are in our family.
Alexis, mommy is proud of you too! You are such a huge helper...always praying for Hunter, Ethan and daddy. You think of others before you think of yourself, giving Ethan your flashlight so he won't be scared! You are an example to all of us! I love you, sis!
It brings tears to my eyes to think of how big my kids are and that they are growing and growing! I love being their mommy and hope and pray everyday that I can teach them like Heavenly Father teaches all of us! I fall short, but I can say that nothing brings me more pure joy than to be with my husband and kids! I love you, family, extended and all!

New pics....

2009-11-22T20:38:00.004-05:00

Hunter in his birthday suit!

Silly Alexis!~!

Say Cheese!!!! Not too bad of a self portrait!

Dandilion Wishes....

2009-11-19T11:45:00.003-05:00

So, you have to know that Alexis absolutely loves Monopoly JR. She is really good at it too. Chris as beaten her a time or two...but I have yet to win! Silly girl, I don't know how she does it! It's all in the rolls she gets and the houses she decides to buy with the option for double rent, which I usually land on her property and the I have to pay her tons of $!!! The girl is learning fast...that's all I can say. Well, today we are sitting here...I just picked her up from school. They went to the firestation and had a great time. She was asking me to play a game....she goes over and gets Monopoly JR. Then she says to me...
Mommy, I wish you would win some time ....mommy...don't worry, that'll be my next wish on a dandilion flower!
OK, I said! :)
What a cute thing....she reminds me of my sister growing up. Christina would always say the funniest things!!! I love you Alexis....don't worry, I'll win Monopoly someday!!! :)

Enjoy the pics....

Chris ready for his PA interview, which went really well...we are waiting to hear and will keep you updated! Alexis and the outfit my sister bought her for her birthday! She loves it and wears this sweatshirt everytime she sees it hanging in her closet.

Hunter.....5 months....almost sitting up on his own now....

My 'Uncle Louis'. He's actually my great uncle...but I've called him uncle louis since I was little! Visits with him are fun! He owns property with mature trees. Last time we visited we played in the leaves and the kids had fun!!!

Happy Halloween....

2009-11-05T09:59:00.003-05:00

This halloween was really really fun! The kids were able to dress up a few times between church's trunk or treat, actually halloween night, and school halloween party! Ethan was a vampire, Alexis was a princess, and Hunter was a pumpkin!!! Enjoy the pics....

Poor sleeping pumpkin....he has croup! So, we dressed up in the house!

Alexis was such a beautiful snow princess....

Happy baby Hunter!

Ethan loved the scary, crazy teeth his Aunt Vicki sent him! Thank you!

Ah! Here they all are.....in all their cuteness!!!

Happy Birthday....little ones....

2009-10-27T10:37:00.004-04:00

Alexis is now 4 years old....where has the time gone! She is now reading small 5 letter words with Ethan....she loves...absolutely loves Monopoly Jr. She's really good at it too...I have played her about 6 times....and have yet to win! (I'm actually trying to win now...still can't) To watch her have to pay me rent when she does land on my 'land' is priceless. She had a haircut....it frames her face and she looks just darling with a little barrette clip in her hair. She is a great helper with Hunter...loves to feed him when I'm at work....loves to hold him and give him kisses, is always making him laugh when she laughs! It's just wonderful to watch her grow. She is into trains and her kitchen set....loves her magformers. She is really imaginative and loves to build things. She can write her name well. She loves to sing. 2 weeks ago, our family, well- minus Hunter- sang in Sacrament Meeting- 'A Child's Prayer.' It went really well- brought a tear to my eye when Ethan was cowarding down and she bent over and gave him a kiss up there....it was the sweetest thing! She is such a innocent little girl. She knows what she likes and folds her arms and sasses you when she doesn't get her way. (We are working on that part). We are totally blessed to have her as a part of our little family. You are loved, Alexis Marie!

Hunter is now 5 months old! Honestly, didn't I just have him....8lbs 5 oz....he is now 20lbs....a Butterball Turkey!!! :) I just can't believe it! He loves his family....When we each play with him...he giggles and laughs. He loves to babble and stick his tongue out. He is drooling all over the place...no teeth yet though! His back and belly are so ticklish....when you tickle him, he goes crazy laughing and giggles so much. I love it! He is wearing 12 month clothes now. He enjoys his belly and kicks trying to move to reach his toy. He holds his head up great and loves to watch what we are doing. He'll sit up for a good 1-2 minutes before falling over. He sleeps very well...taking naps during the day 2 times for almost 2 hours each. He puts himself to sleep and it's just so wonderful! We are very blessed to have him in our family. We love you Hunter Kade!

pics to come hopefully tomorrow...when I'm off work!!!

60 degrees, late October, and sunny equals...

2009-10-25T16:39:00.007-04:00

Chandra is working this weekend which means I get to entertain the kids for a while. Yesterday was supposed to be the best day for a while. After lunch I packed Hunter, strapped inside his car seat, into the bike trailer. The other kids rode their bikes next to us and we rode down a dead-end road and back. It was windy and now the kids have coughs, but we got out of the house.

Today we can't go out in the weather, but I wanted to get out anyway. I remembered when I was young that my family would go on outings during October General Conferences where we drove somewhere for the first session while listening to it on the radio, eat our packed lunch, and ride back while listening to the second session. Well, I modified that to reflect the times and situation; we live on the East Coast and we already had Conference. From our house I drove over 2 mountain ranges and then turned around. I was awe-struck at the beauty. My crappy camera-phone might have well just taken black-and-white snapshots for the comparison to what I saw and what you see. I describe it as a panorama of tie-dyed cottonballs held up against the sky. I have never seen entire mountains and valleys clothed in this hippie-esque garb and it was breath-taking. I rode past the entrance to Skyline Drive, which can be driven from lower PA to somewhere in SC I am told, and the line to get on the road was a mile long. On my road, Highway 211, the trees curved in over the top of the road on both sides. It was like driving along a curvy driveway lined by technicolor puffs. Some trees had pink and red leaves on top and green on the bottom; others were flourescent yellow.

I started thinking about all the things I am learning since I have moved out here. Things like I prefer having all my kids around as opposed to the easier 1 or 2, like nothing chases the grumps or blues away quicker than listening to Hunter laugh his 5-month-old laugh complete with squeeks and grunts, like beating Alexis in Monopoly isn't as fun as watching her face when I land on her properties and have to give her money. After coming home Ethan pulled out a human anatomy book I had on the desk. He began looking at the pictures and surprised me by how fascinated he was at seeing the different bones and muscles. He showed Alexis a picture of a baby in utero and explained to her exactly what it was, a baby inside the mom before being born. My experience from today helped me to appreciate the experiences my kids are having. I want more kids. I see it as having a child for every stage of development. When Hunter gets into the toddler stage, bring on another infant. Plus it doesn't hurt that the older kids fight over who gets to feed Hunter the bottle. I hope that keeps up until he can hold it himself.

On a different note I have been looking up information regarding physician assistants to prepare for my interview next week with the program here. I heard they want to know what the interviewee knows about PAs as proof that they are walking into the program with their eyes open. Well, the average age of the first year PA student in 2007 (the latest data published) is 25. 66% of the students are female. 25% are married. It seems I might add diversity as a married male with children...who would have thought that single white females would be the majority?

Anyway, things are crazy as always. With work Chandra and I both have pulled a 16-hour shift within the last month, but we normally stick to 8-12 hr shifts at one time. We have Chandra's mother come over from MD about 1-2 times a month to help out since our schedules overlapped and no one wants to come over at 3 AM to watch the kids.