Nichols Family

This week

2012-01-24T19:44:00.002+01:00

Last week and this week we have been battling sickness in the house. The 24 hour virus went through each children one by one and now I have some kind of cold/flu. I am glad we are all getting better now. The best part of last week was a really cool email I got from church asking if everyone needed a bunk bed. I replied very quickly and was the first, so we got it. Devin has been VERY HAPPY for his new FREE bed. He has a new dresser and a little desk under it. Perfect spot for a little boy. His room is still messy because I have been to sick to organize anything.

Devin had a project at school to make a paper quilt timeline. I had no idea how to make one, so I looked online. So this is what we made.....

We put age 3-8 year pictures in each quilt square. It was a lot of work but fun. We got our inspiration from a quilt Dane's mom made for us. Of course Jarom only wants to be in the picture when I do not ask or when it is a Devin picture only. Silly boy :)

Happy Happy Happy

2012-01-18T20:21:00.002+01:00

We are very happy because it looks like we will be able to stay here at Fort Benning for another year and a half. Dane was able to get command here!!!! Perfect place to stay for a long time (in Army life)!! I can not believe Devin will be able to almost finish 2 years in the same school. Of course we do not have our orders yet, so I am still a little worried it could change but the big boss called Dane and told him so sounds good to me :)

Below here is Devin with his "Robot bug" an elective for cub scouts! It vibrates and moves!!

We were super excited to get a special gift from Grandma Nichols just for Jarom, a wonder new quilt she made for him. Jarom loves it. It is even great to hide under when mommy wants to take a picture.

Lastly, here is Ammon socializing during church since he will not sit still for sacrament. I love that smile. I am glad Dane got it on camera.

Trip to Atlanta

2012-01-08T00:36:00.002+01:00

These pictures uploaded very weird, so we will see how they look. Last weekend we took a trip up to Atlanta with Grandma. Dane and I were able to go to the Atlanta Temple which was nice. The next day we went to the Georgia Aquarium, lots of fun!

See Devin and Jarom through the fish tank???

Daddy and Jarom with a little friend

Today we went to Hobby Lobby and saw this great bench. It was so cool, I would love to have it only $400.00!

The best picture of all, Who wants the dog bed more, Ammon or Shmoo????? Shmoo always wins. Shmoo will drag Ammon around until Ammon gets off or fells off. SO FUNNY!!

Our new dog, "SHMOO"

2011-12-29T21:31:00.002+01:00

I almost forgot to post about our new dog, Shmoo. We adopted him from a foster person. He was saved 15 min before being put down at the local shelter. He is very loving and doesn't mind Ammon pulling on his hair or being sat on, poor dog. Ammon must think he is a toy. I think he fits with our family.

Happy Birthday to my Jarom

2011-12-29T21:16:00.002+01:00

Jarom wanted Chuck E Cheese for his birthday. I think Dane enjoyed it also :)

Pictures are not in order as you can see. Here is Jarom Showing is Book of Mormon scripture cards he got.

Ammon was very unsure about this ride, very stiff looking. SO FUNNY!

I finally got a smile from Jarom. He would hide once he saw any camera.

This is the look I normally get from Jarom

Here is our Christmas which was spent in Tallahassee, FL in the morning and then back home for the evening to see my mom.

I think I have uploaded enough pictures for now. Hope everyone enjoyed their Holidays. I know we still have more fun stuff to do now that our stress level is lowered :)

Way Behind on posting

2011-12-29T20:57:00.002+01:00

I guess I have been struggling to get on my computer and post pictures. Ammon destroys the computer room, so I only get to go in there during nap time. Here is our updates. We have had many fun Christmas things this year. Below is Devin's school Frosty play. He refused to have a part, but he did sing. (sitting in front with Santa hat).

My Ammon LOVES the table, getting on it!!! I have to remove all the chairs to keep him off, that busy little boy :)

Devin had a Classroom Christmas Party. His teacher did so much for those kids. Below Devin is making a winter hat. The teacher is showing them all how to make them.

Of course, all the kids surrounded Dane and he loved it.

Dec 10 we went to a little historic town, Westville. The kids made candles and did many fun things.

Devin's cub scouts went to a Nursing home and sang Christmas songs.

A Happy Day :)

2011-12-13T19:45:00.002+01:00

If you have read my other posts, you would read about our stress of possibility of getting out of the Army. Dane has had trouble passing one of the hardest courses. The Army will not keep you if you don't pass. He could not pass the presentations. Dane did his LAST brief presentation today for work and PASSED! I believe it was a miracle and some extra prayers, priesthood blessing, and Temple visit that got him through this very hard expierence. Of course, the class is not over yet. He is worried about a 10 page battle paper now, but he is good at papers. He got through the hard part, so it looks like we can keep the Army as our future :) I am SO HAPPY and proud of my husband!

Crazy kids

2011-12-07T19:13:00.005+01:00

Here are some random pictures this week. Jarom and Ammon love to get into Daddies chair. They think they are the king of the house or something. It is cute to see.

On Sunday, I want a good Christmas photo. I was lucky to find matching ties for each (hard to do). Of course, I had to give candy for them to wear the ties, but I was lucky because they kept them on all during church (first ever). You can see how Jarom was trying really hard NOT to smile. At least I got 2/3 kids smiling in one picture.

I am thinking.....about a dog!

2011-12-02T18:43:00.004+01:00

I have been thinking about including a dog into our crazy life, but Dane is not agreeing yet. I am planting seeds! I know they are SO MUCH work, but I have very good memories of my dog growing up and I want the boys to experience that as well. I took a dog quiz online to see what would "fit" our family. It came up with a Bichon Frise (see picture). They do not shed and great with kids!!! I just got the picture from online. They are so cute. I really do not know how much they cost, so maybe it is just a dream I want to give my kids. We went to Petland and all the dogs were over $800, crazy! It would be cool to have one under the Christmas tree, just dreaming :)

Jarom's Thanksgiving preschool

2011-11-26T03:01:00.002+01:00

I was so thankful to have my mother come and visit for an entire week last week. She got to see Jarom's preschool Thanksgiving. Jarom is still struggling with preschool but getting better. He was very upset in the pictures because he wanted to come to me and not sing a song. Look at that cute sad face!!!

When I saw Ammon playing so good by himself, I had to take a picture. I love to see this because I do not see it much. He normally follows me around fussing at me or getting into something :) Got to love the toddler stage.

Update on our Army status: Dane has to brief in his class next week (??) If he does not get a "go" or pass the first time, he will be dropped from the class. Our life will change completly!

Family Photo Shoot!!!!

2011-11-14T21:10:00.006+01:00

I was super excited when I got my photos today!

I am so thankful to have friends with such great talents and serve me with these wonderful pictures.

Veterans Day

2011-11-11T22:05:00.002+01:00

We spent this wonderful Veterans Day at the park getting our family photos taken.

At the end, we feed the birds.

Just a sneak peak of our pictures. This was off my camera. Real pictures will come soon. So thankful for church members with great photography talents.

This Week

2011-11-09T20:25:00.002+01:00

Devin finished soccer and got his trophy. He was very happy and excited for his last game and trophy party.

The party was at a park, so the kids got to play. Ammon loved it!

Also Ammon really likes the neighbors dog or any dog his sees.

Halloween

2011-11-01T17:59:00.002+01:00

I started Jarom into a developmental basket ball for 3 weeks which he really wanted to do. His first day was Halloween, so before trick-or-treating he learned some basket ball.

I love this side picture of Ammon, so cute. He was amazed at the chicken at my dads house.

Devin did tell me, "this was the BEST Halloween ever!"
We really have a great community here.

All my cuties

At my dad's house, the boys really like helping feed the animals on the farm.

My dad did a hay ride for us. Jarom had a blast jumping in the middle.

Some things I learned this weekend: I will never travel with pumpkin pie again and I am an highway type girl. Police just do not like me on the back roads. Dane drives from now on to my dad's house. Also it's just not fun, having fun, without Devin. He is the life of a party! I love him with all my heart.

Ammon Winnie the Pooh

2011-10-26T18:37:00.003+02:00

Sundays are the only day we all get dressed up and look nice, so I really like taking pictures. It takes me a good 2 hours to get myself and the kids ready, so my reward is a good family picture.

Well, it didn't happen this Sunday. Jarom wanted to play instead.

I take Jarom and Ammon the story hour at the library each week. This week they could wear their Halloween customs. Jarom refused of course, but Ammon was a cutie. I could not get him away from this little baby for some reason.

Trick or treat around the Library

What is on my head?

The wings and head piece did not stay on long.

Hurry, take a picture before the head part comes off!

I love pictures :)

School Fall Festival

2011-10-22T19:41:00.002+02:00

Can you tell I really like Fall and pumpkins with all my picture?

Friday we went to Devin's school Fall Festival. It was fun for the kids. Jarom would not do anything. He has turned into my shy child!

My cuties!

After the festival, we went to play on the school play ground. The picture is a little blurry since Devin took it. I think this was the first time I have done the swings with Ammon! I am such a bad mom. He loved it.

I think he liked the slide even better because he started screaming when we started walking back home!

I love spending fun time with my kids.

We missed daddy since he was at a boyscout campout.

This week

2011-10-18T19:27:00.002+02:00

Well, Dane has been able to retake most of his class again. He started 3 weeks into the class. So we have one more chance to pass the class or officially out of the Army, STRESS! So right before Christmas, we should know if our lives will be turned upside down or not. Merry Christmas!!!

Dane's free time project has been getting pecans. There are several tress on base, so he took the boys, Devin and Jarom, and got over 25 lbs of pecans. Devin's hands are all stained from opening the pecan outer shell. It takes weeks for that stuff to come off.

Squirrels love our house and our pumpkins!!!

Devin was very upset to find his pumpkin half eaten. It did have teeth.
Jarom has refused to go to preschool now, so Tuesday and Thursday are very hard. They have to hold him back, so I can leave. When I picked him up, he was very upset he has to share a locker with someone else. I had to just walk away to the car. So he started crying loudly on the parking lot ground next to the car. Really??? Jarom was my easy child!! I think we are in the terriable 4's! I remember Devin harder at age 4. This will pass :)

Also, Ammon has turned into a screamer!!! Church, home, store, everywhere!!!
Life as a mommy, and I would not trade it for the world :)

Fun Filled Weekend!

2011-10-11T20:55:00.005+02:00

For this Columbus Day weekend, we went down to central Florida to see family and a baptism.

First stop on the way, was the many cotton fields we saw. Very neat to see them all over.

I just love watching my children sleep, so peaceful.
We spent one day at Down Town Disney area. Can you tell Devin was told to do this?

Ammon was very cautious with that big bird!

We spent the most time at the Lego store with lots of cool lego pieces.

The Dragon!!

It took awhile to get Jarom to get in this picture.

This dragon piece was the best! It was new. Of course my husband asked about it.

It took 12-14 employees 1 year to complete this piece.

Lego dogs

Fall family photo on Mickey!

Greyson's Baptism

Here is my brother and his son, Greyson.

All the family that came many miles for this little boy!

Fun with the cousins. Wagons are great!

On the way home, we stopped again at the pumpkin patch. It was super winding.

I loved all the sunflowers in the back.

What a fun weekend with family :)

Our Future......?????

2011-10-03T19:31:00.004+02:00

We got out of the contract for the house in Fort Jackson. Our life is just to uncertain right now. Dane did not pass the last brief he did in his class. This is the second time he has attempted this class, so a board has to meet together and decide our future, repeat the class again or get out of the Army. I really enjoy the Army lifestyle, so I am very sad and have been crying all weekend. I do not know what we would do out of the Army with unemployment so high. It scares me :( The only good thing I see right now is I have been counting my blessing more. My kids.... I do not want to leave them and go to work:( They are my gems! I treasure every moment I have with them. I am thankful for my husband, my 1950's house, the gospel, and our health. You never know when something could change.

Blog TIme!

2011-09-29T16:49:00.005+02:00

Here is a picture of the house we just put an offer in for our new duty station SC. It is a foreclosure, so we are hoping to get it really cheap. We offered $95,000 in a neighborhood with houses between $175,000-225,000. They are asking $119,900. It has great schools and only 5 min from base (Dane wants to be close to work). We have lots of ideas to fix it up with paint and putting a new front door. We will see if we get it :) It has lots of potential with some old southern charm inside.

This week Jarom started preschool for the first time.

He is going 2 days a week for mornings.

He was so excited.

Cubscout Pack Meeting time again. Last night they first had a game. Lots of fun.
Devin got his Bear Badge, hey hey!!!!

I volunteered to go get the awards for the Pack Meeting. When I was at the scout shop, I saw a bear claw necklace craft. So I got it for Devin for when he got his bear badge. WOW, did that make his day!!!! I think he slept with it and today he wore it to school. I hope he does not get in trouble with it. I love it when he is excited about scouting.

Weekend fun!

2011-09-21T20:27:00.003+02:00

I am finally getting to the blog. I've been distracted looking at houses online for our next move:) Saturday was a full day of family fun. First Devin's first soccer game of the season. They won the game!!

Then we decided to go to the Animal Safari about 45 min away. Kids LOVED it! We wrote on a bus and feed the animals during the ride. There was lots of baby animals and even some very interesting animals like a spitting Lama!

Close and personal. Neat to touch a giraffe!

This was interesting, A Liger!!! half tiger half lion.

Rino

What a cute lion :)

To end the day, all the boys got hair cuts.

Ammon's first hair cut, not happy. It was just a trim.

I think we slept good that night.

Sat & Sun

2011-09-14T04:55:00.002+02:00

For some reason, Dane likes dresses. Now that I can finally wear a dress, we went dress shopping. After many dresses, we finally found one we both were satisfied. In order to get this picture, I had to make many bribes. First, Devin got a treat after church for wearing the green sweater thing. Second, it did not work with Jarom because the tie came off right after the picture. I guess Ammon is the only one I can dress cute now with no problems :) I do love Jarom face in this picture.

My cute Ammon very tired. Church is at 11:00, nap time. He is tired before we even leave for church, very hard day.

Saturday was our Super Saturday at Church. FIRST TIME I LEFT ALL 3 KIDS WITH DANE!!!!!! I prepared him weeks in advance reminding him. Everyone survived with 3 hours of Ammon crying. He did not go down for a nap til 2:00. But I made some really cool crafts and enjoyed myself.

Fun fun fun! I am ready for the Holidays!

Life stress!

2011-09-09T19:00:00.002+02:00

For the last week, I have been having trouble sleeping. I like to blame it on my loving husband.

He has decided to do a "Dity" move (move yourself)!!! The Army will pay us (how much???) to move ourselves. It would make me feel better to know if we will profit from the move. The stress of packing and dealing with 3 kids overwhelms me. To add to that, Dane wants to buy a house at our new location, live in it for our 3 years and then rent it out afterwards. I have been trying to see where we want to live near Fort Jackson SC, but it is kind of hard when you have never been there to see the area. Should we get a Realtor? All these decisions while Dane is busy with work!

On to less stressful things, Dane has been really happy to see his boys play with the same toys he played with at their age. Thanks to Dane's mom for mailing us these awsome toys awhile ago.

Ammon has been so cute, walking around with his blanket. I normally leave it in the crib, but I let him take it out one day. This is how I found him most of the day.

I think I might be dreaming about pears lately.
Dane found someone that has a pear tree that did not want the pears. We all went out and picked lots and lots of pears, tubs full. We have been using our apple pealer and then dehydrating them, and of course giving bags away to our neighbors.
Dane even canned some pears.

This is all that is left, finally!

Family Time!

2011-09-05T23:55:00.003+02:00

Saturday we went to Callaway Gardens, about 45 mins away from us.

We picked a good day because morning was not as hot.

Some flowers with Devin....

Pioneer log cabin
My name......

My Dane......

Two brothers loving each other

pretty lake

Butterfly garden area

After all our walking, we went to the beach area to swim.

Ammon, no go on the sand.......

DO NOT PUT ME IN THE SAND

The other boys loved the sand

They even had some hot air balloons!

Lastly, Daddy teaching Devin how to use a knife, carving soap (cubscout requirement)!

I love all these family memories!

Memories

2011-09-02T18:26:00.002+02:00

Dane came home one day and said, "get ready you have 10 minutes."

I should be used to the late notice more from him.

We all jumped into the car for a "live" demonstration with tanks etc.

They were shooting to those other hills.

It was very loud and Ammon started screaming, but we calmed him down.

It was really cool to see everything for real.

Everyweek Dane plays Ultimate Football with his classmates.

He wanted us to come out to watch, families were invited.

Of course most of them are single, so there were like 3 wives there.

I did find a GREAT play around for Ammon, Daddies truck!

Devin's Cub Scout Pack Meeting

2011-08-25T18:07:00.002+02:00

Wednesday night Devin had his Pack Meeting for all the stuff he did over the summer.

Some days I feel like I am in it more than him, but I know I am planting a seed somewhere inside.

Devin got many belt loops: Flag Football, Chess, BB Shooting (favorite), Hiking, and Map & Compass- all done at Day Camp over the summer.

At home he did Bicycling and summing belt loops and got 2 red beads. You have to get 4 red beads to get your Bear badge- half way there!!!!!
He has so many belt loops now, they will not fit on his belt, so I got him a display case to hang in his room.

Everyday is a change with us. It looks like we will be moving again sometime after Christmas. The Army needs us somewhere else- Ft Jackson South Carolina!!!

Soccer, Soccer, and more Soccer

2011-08-21T02:40:00.002+02:00

Ever since Devin had soccer camp this summer, Jarom has been asking when he could play. Well, now it is "HIS" turn!

He has been going around the house, "I love soccer camp. I love soccer camp."

When I tell him "today is soccer," Jarom tells me,"thank you mommy, thank you."

I love it :)

Can you tell in the pictures he is SO HAPPY!

I think we might be a soccer family.

Ammon liked it also.

Soccer, Soccer, and more Soccer :)

Devin's first day of school & Ammon's 1st birthday

2011-08-08T20:17:00.002+02:00

Friday August 5, 2011 Devin started school again.

I was very excited for him to learn more.

Ammon has changed over night :) He is walking 3-4 steps most of the time.

He has NO fear to walk

Since my mother was here this weekend, we had a birthday party for Ammon.
Tuesday 1 years old already

This is the look of, "what is this? I've never had cake before."

Everyone enjoyed the cake

Pioneer Day and Summer Reading Program

2011-07-26T16:50:00.004+02:00

Last Thursday was the last day for the Summer Reading Program here and they had some fun activities and puppet show.

Ammon wanted to get on the jumpy :)

Ammon loves to see Daddy.

His first Birthday is coming up in about 2 weeks!!

The boys with the puppet guy with ice-cream faces.

Pioneer Day at church the Primary sang some songs.

Here they are outside with their hand carts. Devin got to help with another boy since it turned into a kid thing. I guess another daddy did not want to be the only one out there. This was my first to see this fun activity. I never remember any pioneer day activities living in Florida. I hope we get to do this again, so we can make one.

Here is Devin and the other boy coming back first place (the cart is about to fall apart and Devin is holding the can of fruit that fell out).

For the reading program, they raffled some prizes. Devin got a 600 piece lego set. It took many hours to put together (2 hours of my time). He was SO excited.

Finally finished. How long do you think this stayed together after hours of putting it together??????

I do not even want to tell you or think about it!!!!

Not long at all.

2 weeks till school starts here, hurry please.

Summer Adventures

2011-07-21T19:35:00.002+02:00

All last week Devin was in a summer soccer camp. It was really hot. So when it was over at noon, Devin was tired already (very nice).

Devin is below with the Army hat holding his knees, second row.

At the Columbus Library, they had a drum guy come and tell stories through music. Kids really liked it.

I had to take a picture of them watching!!

Some of the instruments he had.

Devin got to do this one, but I was not fast enough to get it the first time.

Chuck e Cheese fun. First time I have seen Devin dance in public!

He only did it for FREE tickets.

Little Dane. Ready for some PT Army style!

Is school starting yet???? I am ready, I think.....

Lots of Pics

2011-07-11T00:45:00.005+02:00

Finally home from a short notice vacation to Florida to see family.

Last Thursday I found out Devin's tutoring would be canceled for 4th of July week. It seemed like everything else was canceled to, so I decided to hop in the car and see family. So here are some pictures of before our trip and during.

Below - what better way to spend a hot summer day than by putting a sprinkler under the trampoline! They had a blast. The credit goes all to Dane for this idea.

We also go to the summer reading program and last week they brought snakes and turtles for the kids.
I just thought this was cute of Jarom

July 2, 2011

Devin's Baptism

Tallahassee, FL

Devin HAD to cut the cake and serve everybody :)

I love going out to eat, Olive Garden style!

4th of July weekend we spend at my Dad's and Kenney's house. We went swimming and Alyssa took Devin on their horse.

After the weekend, the kids and I went down to central Florida to my mom's house.

Can you see the craziness?

They sure loved spending time with cousins.

The last day, we decided to go to Animal Kingdom.

The kids loved all the animals and rides.

Here is the Tree of Life in the back. It has all kinds of animals carved in it.

What a fun week :)

Florida Fun

2011-07-07T21:23:00.002+02:00

I had to take some pictures off Melody's blog. Thanks for sharing :)

I am still in Florida, so here is a little update of what we are doing.

4th of July weekend

Disney Water Park

Best Part......girls getting our nails done.
Need this picture to remember the day I got out without kids!!!!

More to come when I get home, plus Devin's baptism was wonderful :)

Wild Ammon

2011-06-25T04:15:00.002+02:00

The wild Ammon is OUT!!!

I used to be able to sit him down with toys and clean the dishes and other stuff. I can not do that anymore. Jarom was nice enough to leave his smoothie on the chair, low enough for Ammon to reach. Look at that face saying, "I scored!"

The drums are still being used.

I wonder who was playing with my camera, Jarom!!!

This was one of 30 pictures I found.

Devin vs Ammon

2011-06-22T22:17:00.002+02:00

I found some old pictures of Devin around the same age as Ammon now. I think they look like each other.

Old picture of Devin. He had the big checks too!

The picture of me and Devin. The rest are of Ammon I just got today.

Wow, I did not realize how close they look a like!
I really enjoy having pictures all over my house :)

What we are up to...

2011-06-19T22:16:00.002+02:00

Dane and I have been called to teach in Primary at Church. We are CTR 4 teachers together. What a wild age group :) Dane is such a good teacher. The hardest part is keeping the kids from playing with Ammon and listen to the lesson.

Time is getting closer to when Devin is getting baptized, July 2. He is getting so big.
Ammon is showing off his balance of standing with only one hand.
I'm ready to take off!!!!!!!!!!
I am not really ready for a crawling baby yet. He got into the kitchen trash yesterday. It was a mess to clean up.

Link to Ammon's photo shoot

2011-06-08T18:52:00.002+02:00

Check out Ammon's photo shoot with this link.

http://www.myonlineportraits.com/ViewSharedAlbum.aspx?ShareID=ec78cd5f-2b61-4421-a97c-2ba93e4fe0b7

Happy Birthday hubby

2011-06-06T02:50:00.002+02:00

We had a good birthday Sunday.

We invited our neighbors over to share some yummy ice-cream cake.

What a fake smile Daddy!

Fun in the Sun :)

2011-06-01T23:11:00.003+02:00

Today was our church play group. So everyone met at the pool just like 4 bldgs down from my house. The kids had a blast. Yes, I do have Ammon in his normal clothes. I need to get a top for his suit. I just could not expose that wonderful new baby skin.

It did take some time to make him keep his hat on!!

I think I am about to be in trouble.

He pulled himself up, standing, by the tub today.

Last couple of weeks :)

2011-05-21T19:10:00.002+02:00

Busy, Busy, Busy, but I love it :)

Below is one of my projects in the front of our house. The house is very plain in the front, so I have been brightening it up with flowers. There was nothing there before.

I took Ammon and Jarom to the doctor for check ups.

Ammon is 21.14 lbs at 9 and a half months old.

He is starting to move more and grabbing things high hence the bruise on his forehead.

Ammon loves bath time now.

We had to get out of the house today, so Dane could study for his class.
The Columbus Library was having a summer reading program kick off. They had lots of games and fun things.

new glasses!

Last weekend we drove about 6-7 hours to my moms to surprise her for 70th birthday party.

TOTAL SURPRISE and all the kids were there to be with her all day.

Us waiting patiently for my mom to get to my brothers house for the surprise.

The kids had fun in the pool at the party as well.

Reading Summer Program

2011-05-11T01:10:00.003+02:00

Devin is still very behind in reading, over a year behind still. So I googled reading programs here in Columbus and found The University of Georgia summer reading program for kids http://uga.readingprograms.org/level/2/

The program is one day a week for five weeks for two hours. It cost money, but if it works I'm all for it. I am also looking for a tutor for him here. Hopefully I can get this boy up to speed :)

Mothers Day

2011-05-09T16:36:00.002+02:00

The best treat ever my kids could give me........they slept in til 9:00 am!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was very surprised Ammon did that but he has been sick.

Thanks boys :)

I thought I had the boxes under control at our house until we got our second shipment from Germany on Friday. It was only 800 lbs of stuff, but I feel burned out. It may have been the yard sale I did on Saturday. Dane told me, "We will never get such a small house again." We are used to having a basement to put storage, so now our 4th bedroom/computer room is full of boxes. I was surprised he would say that and not me!! I am just happy there is no stairs!

We went to church here for the first time and it was very nice. They have a play group every week which Jarom and Ammon will love. We also found out their is about 3-4 family that live in our neighborhood! I think we will like it here.

My poor Blog!

2011-05-04T04:01:00.002+02:00

We have been in Ft Benning for 3 weeks now, WOW! We have a house on post which is wonderful. We love being so close to everything. We got our new Van!!! Lots to update. We just got internet, so my poor blog will get more attention very soon minus all the unpacking I still have to do. For now I need to SLEEP!

Utah Nichols Clan

2011-04-14T19:39:00.006+02:00

The day after we got to Utah, we got all the family together and took pictures. A crazy day, but I think the picture turned out great. Jarom was not a happy little boy as you can see in some of the picture.

Below is Dane and "ALL" his brothers and one sister.

I do not think I have a good chance to have a girl!

All the girls Silly faces

Dane's older brother with family

Dane's older sister and family

I wonder who they are???

The whole clan!

Grandma Nichols with the Grand kids

Utah Vacation

2011-04-07T17:18:00.002+02:00

Minus being sick, we are enjoying our Utah vacation.

Dane and I would able to do a live session in the Salt Lake Temple, first time for me.

I really enjoyed it.

I think I have a new favorite Temple.

Dane pushing "his" hand cart, the stroller!! The kids are enjoying their other cousins.

I was surprised how long Devin did this for.

One more Post!

2011-04-03T10:36:00.002+02:00

We got in another trip to Munich, FREE! I like that. It was a very long day and super tired.

This museum had a Kinder room :)

Dane's award!

2011-03-31T09:11:00.003+02:00

Wednesday Dane got a Commendation Medal for all his hard work here. Even through this is his 3rd Commendation Medal, he was very thankful.

Here I am trying to control both kids from making noise and jumping off chairs.

The life of a 3 year old! Here was Dane's bosses boss. He is a very sweet man and said lots of good things about Dane on his review. I liked him much better than Dane's other boss.

Okay, to many handshakes for me!

Now on to our next adventure!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

No more Internet after today, so goodbye for a while :(

Our last souvenirs

2011-03-27T20:56:00.002+02:00

I think it is finally getting to us that this is our last chance to get things that will remind us of our great stay here.

We got this piece of art all made of different kinds of wood. This is the Tower here in Grafenwoehr.

Ever since we moved to Germany, Dane has been wanting to get some African drums. We have seen them before but I felt like they cost to much. I finally gave in since they make great decor as well. These drums were the prettiest we've seen so far. The boys love to play on them.

Our Army Brats :)

My Shining Star!

2011-03-25T20:47:00.002+01:00

My nice friend took these pictures of Devin today at school (I forgot my camera).

He got a Shining Star Award for good behavior.

My computer time has been limited with Dane home more and sharing a computer!

We even have to share with Devin and now Jarom wants to play ABC games.

I am not sure if it the trouble "3's" or just moving, but Jarom has been difficult.

He has started this, "I'm tired" when ever we walk places and walks VERY SLOWLY.

He just wants to stay home.

Question: How do you make a baby take medicine and not spit half of it out?????

Family Time!

2011-03-24T21:29:00.003+01:00

We decided to play Cootie for the first time the other night. The kids liked it. I have never played before. You have to make your own bug. The first person to complete their bug wins.

I made the "girl" bug!

Today I took Ammon to the doctor for 6 month check up (I am a little late). He is over 7 months now, but weights 21.16 lbs. Big boy :) I also had his ears checked because some fluid came out one of his ears a week ago. Now the other ear looks bad, so he is on antibiotics. His first ear infection! He got shots today and kicked the lady so hard the needle came out and cut his leg.
AMMON IS A WARRIOR!

Dane's newest toy

2011-03-20T16:08:00.002+01:00

For someone that LOVES to sing, he found a karaoke machine for cheap!

For anyone that know Dane, he can sing very loudly without anything!

Now it is louder :) Still good but loud.

The kids are enjoying making up their own words and singing.

Here is a random picture of Ammon sitting up before falling.

Waiting, waiting, and waiting

2011-03-17T17:23:00.002+01:00

As I wait to move, I called the housing office were we are moving, ONE AND A HALF MONTH WAIT!!!! Hopefully the list will go faster. We only get 10 days in a hotel after that we have to pay for it. I would so just go to families house, but Devin needs to finish school. The stress of moving!

Since we do not have a car anymore, I have been walking all over Post MANY times. Today I am sore. Poor Jarom refused to walk anymore at one point because he was so tire. Needless to say, we stayed home most of the day today.

This Week

2011-03-14T14:24:00.002+01:00

Today I had to say goodbye to my car I have had for over 8 years!

It's done me well!

We have out grown you, and your life will continue in Germany.

I will miss you only for the next few weeks till we move!

One step closer to getting my Honda Odyssey!!!!

Sunday before church.

What better way to make men out of these boys is by service.
We pick up trash often!

7 months old & Fasching!

2011-03-09T15:48:00.002+01:00

On Tuesday Devin's school had a little German Fasching Parade! They dressed up in their Halloween costumes!

Here is Devin, I mean "Bat Man" Of course after taking the picture, I see he is walking with his very best friend Baliey (in white)!

7 Months today!!
I had to take about 20 picture just to get this cute one as he is falling down!

Jarom had to take a photo so here it is...loving my baby.

My turn to takes pictures.

Ammon is the target for kisses and hugs in our family!

That poor boy better love affection because Jarom sure knows how to give it.

Before Jarom was born, Dane would prayer for more love in our home.

I think he got the "love" child!
He always gives kisses on BOTH cheeks and BIG hugs!

Poor Ammon gets this treatment often.

Something Ammon does not like "the car seat"

It is time to upgrade the car seat, but I wanted to wait until we move.

I thought the carrier would be better for the airplane.

Ammon is sleeping better now, every 4 hours, sometimes more at night.

He does not really care for any baby food except for rice cereal.

An email......

2011-03-08T21:29:00.002+01:00

So I just got an email telling me all our stuff is ready to be delivered in GA TOMORROW and they just need an address!!!!!!! WHAT!!!! I could have kept all our stuff here longer. But you know if I did that something would happen, and it would take longer. This news just wants me to get there even faster now, not fair :( At least I know my stuff will be waiting for me, for a while still. :)

The party kept going!

2011-03-07T13:46:00.002+01:00

Here is our little family Birthday party for Devin with yummy Choc. Delight!

Saturday we had Devin's friend party at a indoor playground here.

See Devin in there?

We had the most kids we have ever had at a party, so I think Devin had a blast. I think we had about 10 kids from Devin's class.
I decided to do cupcakes instead of a cake this year, easier!

Every boy loves transformer!

Dane and I both needed a nap after the party!

My 8 Year Old!

2011-03-04T09:28:00.002+01:00

Happy Birthday to my 8 year old!

We have lots of things planned, so many picture to post on Saturday.

In 5 days Ammon will be 7 months old already.

He grabs everything in sight!

Tuesday was story night at Devin's school. Out of about 8 reading stations, this was the only man that could keep my boys attention. He even had hand motions for the kids to do during the book.

We had to visit with Devin's tutor.

Becky was reading to the kids aslo, so we had to say hello!

The boys have really enjoyed her coming to our house.

I am ready to leave.

2011-03-03T13:49:00.002+01:00

OK, if anyone did not hear, 2 US Military was killed and 2 others wounded in the Frankfurt Germany Airport. They were targeted as they were getting on a bus taking them to post. CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THIS IS OUR AIRPORT WE FLY OUT OF........WE ARE NOT SAFE HERE. GET ME OUT OF THIS COUNTRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Saturday

2011-02-27T15:39:00.002+01:00

Saturday was Devin's Blue & Gold Pack meeting. The theme for the night was "fasching" which is German carnival theme. March is Fasching here in Germany. Everyone dresses up in Halloween type clothes and parades around. I am sure you will see pictures of Devin doing that another time.

Devin got his "Wolf" badge, one gold arrow point and 2 silver arrow points, and computer belt loop. Good job Devin! Do you think Devin has on enough beads?

We had a good evening with some great German food!

I am so counting the days til we move :)

I am ready for Utah and than GA. Time can go fast right now, please!

Baby Dane

2011-02-24T12:31:00.002+01:00

I Just found these 2 photos on facebook from family. Dane is in the front in this first photo.

I can SO see Jarom in Dane's face here. He might even be around the same age as Jarom, 3-4 years old, I'm guessing.

Look at all those BOYS!!! I bet Dane was interesting back than!

Pneumonia

2011-02-23T09:45:00.003+01:00

I finally got Dane to go to the doctor (first time I know of). They did a chest X-ray and he has pneumonia. He got to stay home from work one day, a first again. I think everyday he is feeling better. I really do not know why Dane, or men, have such a hard time going to the doctor. Dane thinks he should do everything in his power to fix the problem first and the doctor is last resort. I feel the Hospital is last resort not the doctor. He has been sick for almost 3 weeks before going to the doctor. Men.....I just have to love my man :)

Library Story Hour

2011-02-17T14:32:00.003+01:00

Every Thursday I take Jarom and Ammon to story hour at the Library. They always have a number and letter of the day. Today was number 10. He is really starting to like story hour now. Something I find interesting about Jarom is his organization. He always has to have the stickers exactly in the circle. You can't even see the circle because he gets it "just right." He will sit there until he gets it right. I am thankful he smiles for me now too.

The books your children want you to read to them!!!!

Very interesting.

Since Monday was V-day and Family Night, we made Valentines for Jesus to show him how much we love him :) www.ldsfamilyfun.com is a great website for ideas!

Just a cute picture

Today has been a better day for me not being sick. So thankful for good health!

Sick, Sick, Sick

2011-02-16T18:08:00.002+01:00

What do you do when both parents are sick? Dane has a fever/cough and I have a stomach virus that started today thanks to Jarom. I can not keep anything in, not even water. I feel very weak. It is amazing how your body can keep going (nursing) even though you can not drink anything. All I have to say is I better loose some weight, he he :)

Happy V- Day

2011-02-13T18:52:00.003+01:00

Over the weekend the sickness has spread to Devin.

The house has been calm :)

This was 5:00pm on Saturday!

I got these nice flowers all through out the house for V-Day. Dane tried to hide the flowers in the hall way, but I could smell them. So I got them early. I needed piece of Florida here in grey Germany. I have been missing all our stuff around the house. So flowers were great. Can not wait to get to GA and start my flower collection again.

See the snow outside :( We just got it again.

Just some picture we took today, Sunday.
Ammon got his "first" tooth on Saturday.

I'm cool dude!

6 months

2011-02-09T10:31:00.003+01:00

6 months today!

It seems so short on one hand, but a long time of no sleep!

I am so thankful to have this little guy :)

Since our stuff is gone, we got some family games for family night.

The kids loved, ring around the nosy.

Love our Army furniture :)
All I have to say is I should have kept MORE toys!

This week I have a very sick little 3 year old. For 2 days now he has not been able to keep anything in his tummy, not even water. Today, I gave him soda and it stayed :) He was so funny how he wanted to carry his bowl EVERYWHERE, just in case he got sick.

Special Sunday

2011-02-06T18:02:00.002+01:00

As I was getting ready for church today, Dane said he was staying home because he felt really bad, sick. The kids were a handful in the morning. As I was trying to deal with the 3 kids and myself, I told myself, "maybe I should just be late to church. Can I really handle all the kids during Sacrament?" I knew I could, but did I really want to? Ammon normally does not make it through sacrament and Jarom can be another handful. I told myself, "no I need to show my kids that sacrament is important no matter what. So we went! The meeting was one of the most touching Fast and Testimony meetings I have had. I felt the spirit so strong. I know Heavenly Father helped me. I recieved blessings for choosing the right. Ammon slept the entire meeting and the boys were wonderful. It almost felt like angles were around my kids helping me. Those are the memories I will always treasure.

Pinewood Derby 2011

2011-02-05T15:39:00.003+01:00

Saturday was our Pinewood Derby car race for Cub Scouts. Devin decided he wanted a "tank" car. He did not come close to winning, but tanks are slow, right?

As we were almost ready for the races to start, Jarom pointed to the wall in the school gym and said, "BAT!" Dane was so kind to take it outside.

Look at those cheeks! You just want to kiss them!

We also went bowling which is very often in our family. Jarom likes to have complete control over "his" bowling balls!

Here is the cheer for every pin pushed down.

Here is our Primary. I got it from someone's facebook :) Devin is on the right side.

This week

2011-01-30T19:39:00.003+01:00

So today when church was over, Jarom ran to me SO HAPPY and said, "MY OWN SCRIPTURES!" The Primary gave the Sunbeams their own scriptures.

On Saturday, Devin got to go to a birthday party. This was just not a normal birthday. This was "Bailey's" birthday, Devin's best friend. He ask her to sit with him at lunch everyday. They are in the same class and get to see each other at church. Devin is in a multi-age class, so she is a year younger. Some how they have a connection!

Ammon is loving his feet! I was trying to find a picture of Jarom playing with his feet in his mouth, but I could not find it on Dane's laptop (all we have now). Ammon just can't get his toes in his mouth yet. I think that is a good thing.

Planning time

2011-01-27T13:40:00.003+01:00

It is official!! We got tickets today to go to Salt Lake, Utah when we come back to the US. We found out that if we pay for our tickets ourselves and the price is under what it would cost to fly to Ft Benning, the Army will pay us back for the entire trip. I guess it is cheaper to fly to Utah and than Atlanta because our entire trip will be less. I like a good deal and Free is even better. Two weeks in Utah to see family the kids and I have never met will be fun. Dane is on cloud nine thinking about it. He has so much family there. It will be exciting. If anyone know of fun kid things to do there, let me know.

Boxes, Boxes, and more Boxes

2011-01-25T10:46:00.003+01:00

Some people might think I am crazy moving our stuff 2 months early, but I have good reasons! Since it takes 2 months for our stuff to be shipped back to the US, I much rather be without it here in Germany. The Army lets us borrow beds, dressers, table, and couches here. We also get another little shipment right before we leave, so we get to keep some extras. The packers have packed much faster than I thought, so tonight we will have to sleep on the floors. Everyone seems VERY EXCITED about it except for me. I will survive! Wednesday will be better with furniture again. Poor Jarom just does not know what to do with all this moving. He was a little upset everything is "gone" and no table to eat on. Life is just so hard for a 3 year old.

Here is Ammon on Sunday in his new church clothes, so cute.

Staying busy

2011-01-19T13:51:00.002+01:00

No big news here. I have been getting the house ready for movers and hiding things in our bathrooms of stuff I need for the next two months. I have to remember to pack winter clothes for here and summer clothes for when we move back. Still thinking about visiting California to see family when we come back, but we will have to see what kind of prices I can get. Lots to get ready for, how exciting!!!! I love to plan.

I am excited for this weekend. Devin and Jarom get to go to Super Saturday (child care) for most of the day :) I will be busy with house stuff, but I do get a special lunch with my husband. At least, I did put the request in!!!

On some good news, Ammon is finally sleeping in the playpen on his back. He is finally out of the car seat! The crib will be moved next week with our stuff, so I decided to get him used to the playpen. I think his cold is getting better, so I am happy about that. I was worried about his breathing. He is growing fast. I want him to grow up, but not looking forward to him getting into everything! He is a blessing in our family.

PS. I told Jarom, "Daddy was my buddy." He said, "Lauklin is my buddy ever and ever." It's great for them to be close to their cousins.

Very weird

2011-01-15T22:04:00.002+01:00

I have seen pictures were kids have fallen asleep in their highchair or somewhere silly in the past. I always told myself, "my kids would never do that." I was right until I walked out to see this......

This is very unusual for him since he is normally fussy! He has his first real "cold/cough," so he is not feeling well.

Now I think the sickness is coming to me :(

To bad I can't just fall over and go to sleep!!!

5 months old

2011-01-14T13:09:00.003+01:00

I have the hardest time getting Devin to read.

He wanted to read in the shower!

Where ever he wants to read will make me happy!

I am happy to say he has increased to the next level reading books this week!

I thought this was cute because Ammon was sleeping with the toy in his mouth.

Ammon turned 5 months on Jan 9th.
He weighs 18.8 lbs and Height is 26.4 in.
The doctor was happy with everything about him even his weight (heavy boy).
I really do not put him on his tummy often, so I did today.
He turned over for the first time. I am sure he would have done it early if I just let him. Putting him on the floor with my crazy boys just does not make me feel good.

jaromjmrmjarom (Jarom just typed his own name there)

Here is the big boy that just flipped over!

Last of vacation

2011-01-11T13:50:00.003+01:00

Melody and I

Can't really remember where we were at but we were having fun.

On our last day, we decided to take the kids to the park and play (can't do that now in Germany). Of course, most of my day is devoted to nursing. This just proves it.

The rest of the picture are not in order. Here is a very sad boy refusing to walk to get on our airplane to go back to Germany :(

Here is my brothers new law firm building. They have lots of room now with tons of work.

While in Orlando, we went golfing. This is what Jarom did everytime he got the ball in the hole, so cute!

So cute to see him try so hard.

We had a great vacation and kept busy everyday. We also went to Disney, but I guess I did not take pictures those days, crazy of me. I must have had my hands full!!

Now on to getting my house ready for the movers!!!!!!!!!!!!

What do I need for the next 2 months????

Not done yet with vacation pictures!

2011-01-09T02:03:00.003+01:00

I am only getting this post up tonight (2:00am) because I can not sleep plus I have a crying baby for the last 4-5 hours. Everyone has been getting up at 1:30 am because of the time difference here. Can not wait to get back on schedule here.

More vacation pictures, but this is not all yet. I have to do it in stages!

We went to Ripley's Believe it or Not!

Jarom was cute at the gift shop.

Big girls chair!

I thought it was cute watching them both looking at the TV.

We saw some scary things. The kids were ready to leave.

I think this day was more for Dane.

See Jarom showing off for you??

Family trip to the Orlando Temple

Part 3- Sea World

2011-01-07T13:42:00.002+01:00

The kids got spoiled at Grandma's house. They got to eat in the TV room everytime. They sure loved her waffles with cream on top!

Sea World- Shamu show (not as good as it used to be without Shamu as the star)

Ammon liked this for a while!

Before we left Tallahassee, we went to a fun station for the kids, so I thought!!!

Dane got a little crazy with this game so he could get a Plasma ball!

Part 2-Jarom's Birthday

2011-01-07T13:26:00.003+01:00

Jarom turned 3 on Dec 29! We went to Chuckie Cheese for a little party.

I think it was TOO much fun for Daddy and Ammon!

Everyone else had fun

Here are some more pictures on Ammon's blessing day.

Here is my little helper with Ammon!

Part One- Christmas

2011-01-07T13:00:00.004+01:00

Christmas was great! We did a bomb fire at my Dad's little farm. He has a horse, chickens, goats, and rabbits. The kids loved ridding the golf cart over to the land and seeing the animals.

Christmas morning.

We have a happy boy!
Boys playing so nice!

Dane got a little spoiled, Ipod touch, at least, in our modest life style.

We feel so out of touch of technology being in Germany.

Kids loved the candy. Someone in the ward makes them.

Ammon Sterling Nichols Baby Blessing

2010-12-27T21:23:00.002+01:00

Sunday, December 26 (My family)

I knew from the start our fussy Ammon would cry during his baby blessing.

It's taken this whole family to take care of him.

I think I am ready to admit he is a colicy baby!

Happy Christmas

2010-12-24T20:34:00.002+01:00

I have not uploaded any of our pictured yet on a computer, so I just took some pictures from Melody's blog, thanks Melody! Here we are enjoying dinner at my brother's house. I can not believe how old their kids have gotten. We have teens now!

Here is Devin and Jarom with the rest of the kids eating at the table.

They sure love playing together.
Now we are in Tallahassee enjoying more family. We went to the mall today. It's great to be in a mall after a year and a half!

Merry Christmas to all!

I love Florida

2010-12-17T22:10:00.002+01:00

We are here and loving the sunny skies and NO SNOW!!! If only the boys will not wake me up at 4:30 am tomorrow, I will be great! We have been window shopping all day today. I can not believe it has been one and a half years since being back home. Devin even forgot what Wal-Mart was! He remembered really fast! Everything is so much cheaper in the US. I can not wait to move back!

Vacation time is coming!

2010-12-14T09:09:00.002+01:00

Well, it looks like we will get a true family vacation all together! My poor husband is making sure of it. He worked 19 hours yesterday, slept for 5 hours and went back to work today. He sure works hard for us. We sure love him. Devin was ready to go to work with Daddy to help so he could come on vacation with us, so cute.

Something else cute, Devin thinks we might miss our plane because Daddy "talks" to everyone! Devin is also worried Jarom might run off, so hopefully I have a little helper to watch Jarom.

I am about to get VERY upset!

2010-12-11T17:56:00.002+01:00

Well, for the last several months Dane has been signing for tons of stuff and having to do inventory. His boss has already aproved Dane's leave for Christmas break for our trip to Florida. Now "the boss" is saying it has to be done before leave. Things are missing and it is just a big mess. I do not believe it will get all done in the very short time he has. He has been woring non-stop through lunches, Saturdays, and even this Sunday. I might have to go talk to his boss because I am not happy. I do not think I can handle all the boys on the plane by myself. Our house is full of STRESS right now. On top of it, Ammon is sick and me (mommy). Getting up all night with a sick baby does not help. I just prayer everything will work out some how!

Christmas parties!

2010-12-10T13:23:00.003+01:00

In our house, the winter sickness has come! First Jarom got sick throwing up all night and goopy eyes the next day. After finally getting that under control, it's Devins turn. Here he is at Dane's work Christmas party yesterday, Thursday night. On a good note, he really behaves when he is sick! Let's just hope all this sickness is gone before our big trip.

Christmas party

Daddy and Devin went out one evening to shovel the snow. Devin wanted to make a snowman. This is what he made!

Saint Nicholas came to Mega Play (kids indoor play ground). He brought candy and toys.

Here is Devin waiting to see what everyone else gets. I do not know what I am going to do with that boy. He bugged them so much for more toys. When we were ready to leave, they gave me another "BAG" of toys to take home. He sure knows how to work the system! I am saving the bag of toys for our big airplane ride. Hopefully that will help me from going crazy!

Jarom was just happy with his candy!

I just prayer I can make it on our trip with Ammon. He has been crying a lot everytime he is tired which is all the time. I just hope I do not get to many rude comments on the airplane like the last time I flew. I am sure I will, Ammon is a screamer!

No more snow, please!

2010-12-06T10:44:00.004+01:00

Here is the sign I have been seeing a lot lately!! We keep getting 2 hour delays for school and work, but Dane goes into work anyways. No more snow, please! If you look at the forecast on my blog, you will see snow for EVERYDAY this week :( The snow does not melt here. It just keeps getting higher and higher!

Here is a random picture I took of Devin "trying" to help around the house cleaning.

I needed to have evidence for the future, cleaning toliets! Maybe he will learn to flush the toliets more!

Here is my lastest bargin! I found this old German telephone bench. It is very heavy. I was very proud of myself since I went and got it all by myself and got it up one set of stairs. I had to let Dane bring it up one more set of stairs for me. I had to make him feel useful!
It is weird how all these German pieces are just coming to me. I really do not look hard for them. It must be because we are moving, and they just want to come to America, he he!

Friday

2010-12-03T14:20:00.002+01:00

Here is how we get Jarom to go where we want him to go. Walks on the sled!

See all the snow??? Florida, I am ready to see you!!!!

It feels like Christmas now. I made my favorite "Thumb cookies" and pumpkin rolls.

My Birthday

2010-11-30T08:59:00.002+01:00

I had this long written out blog about my stressful Birthday thanks to Devin and the Internet stopped working. So here are some picture.

Here are my boys on Sunday in their suits.

I got Devin's suit for $10.00, my lastest bargin!

Just 2 weeks ago Ammon was not strong enough to sit in here. How they grow so fast. Thanks to my neighbor that moved gave us this for FREE!

Here I am attempting to like the very snowy birthday.

Here is a picture outside our window in the house.

Jarom kept saying he liked the snow!

Santa at the PX!

2010-11-27T14:38:00.003+01:00

Since Thanksgiving is over, time for Chirstmas!

I think I like Dane's camera better.

I can take a picture of Ammon without the flash scaring him.

I get the smiles now!

The kids were wondering how Santa was going to get to the PX. They thought he would land on the roof. They were very surprised when he came on a fire truck.

Devin said, "why is he coming on a fire truck?" He was very confused.

After crying over the snowman sweater, this is as close as Jarom was going to get to Santa! Ammon and Devin were great! This was the second picture actually.
The first one has Jarom picking his nose!

Snow Snow Snow

2010-11-23T12:42:00.002+01:00

Last night we got our first snow! I am not ready for it. Our vacation to Florida just needs to come that much closer now. It has over a year and a half since being in the States (an eternity). I am ready for 70 degree weather and getting out the summer clothes again!

I told Jarom Santa is going to take his "night time" pacifier away and replace it with TOYS!! He seems to be okay with that. I hope he does not have bad memories of Santa the rest of his life.

This year is the first Devin has asked me if Santa is real!! I don't want to lie, so I turn it back on him. "What do you think Devin?" He thinks he is real!!!

We have all our Christmas stuff up, tree and all, mostly because of a eager 7 year old.

December hurry up, I'm ready for you!!!

Updates

2010-11-21T17:58:00.003+01:00

So, my most recent bargin!!!!

I found a 1900 German wind up clock with a double chime for 60 euros (which about $85.00), solid wood!!!

Everytime it chimes, Jarom saids, "MOMMY'S CLOCK."

Ammon's new bumbo seat. Yes, he is man enough to sport a purple seat.

You take what you can get here in Germany!

Ammon's happy to see Daddy even though he is leaving again this week!

Ammon ready for church

Daddies home from "vacation/work"

2010-11-19T20:03:00.004+01:00

Venice at dusk

This area floods every year in Venice

This is near the Austrian and Italian border where Dane had lunch

Now does this look like work to you?????

Shipley's

2010-11-17T22:04:00.001+01:00

I'm not sure why the pictures are so small, but here is my brother's family. They just got their yearly pictures taken. Love them!!

Our Relief Society!

2010-11-17T21:41:00.002+01:00

Here is a picture of most of the woman in our ward. We took this on Sunday for a sick sister. We are in a Military ward, so most of these women deal with the same things as I do, Army life!

PS- No snow yet, THANK YOU!

also, Ammon does not realize he is a 3rd child....demanding!!

What happened to sleeping all day!

Weather

2010-11-15T12:26:00.002+01:00

I see tomorrows forcast is due for some snow!! I am not ready for that. I like seeing the ground when I walk.

I am a "single mother" this week. Dane gets to vacation, or I mean work in Italy this week. No kids in Italy, I consider a vacation! I will miss my lunch buddy :(

ESPN here in Graf!

2010-11-15T08:47:00.002+01:00

On Veterans Day, ESPN Sports came all the way over to Germany to do a special on our soldiers and training area. Below is the start of it, with 3 helicopters flying very low and one landed right in front of us. Of course the big guys came out, and into the tent on TV. The kids loved it of course.

Here is our back view of them on TV. Since we have kids and it was crazy inside, I opt to stay out.

I found it very interesting to see what all they do during commercial time and rush around like crazy people.

Here are the ESPN Sports anchors

Happy Vets Day!

2010-11-10T21:26:00.002+01:00

Since I will be spending my Veterans Day with my soldier, I wanted to post this a little early.

I am so thankful for my best friend!

He works so hard for his family and his Country.

As the kids and I go to sleep tonight, he is leaving again for "Duty" after working a full day.

He never complains.

He does it with Honor!

I love you

3 Months

2010-11-09T14:02:00.002+01:00

I am 3 months old today!

I am getting big and love watching my brothers

Mommy can't even get the new clothes out fast enough. I am growing so fast!

I love kisses! I love meal time also. Can't you tell by the look of my tummy!

This weekend we went to a resort in Garmisch. We got to go for a Marriage retreat, so everything was free! I liked that. Even childcare was free. Devin got his face painted in this picture.

Love the smile Daddy!

I am so happy to say that Jarom is completely potty trained, even at night!

I am amazed! He even moved up to the "Big potty."

I am so proud of him!

My little helper!

2010-11-04T13:55:00.003+01:00

Devin is such a little helper!! Ammon had one of those "diaper explosions," but I was in another room and did not hear it. Ammon started to cry, so Devin goes to get him. You might think that is a good thing but....... Devin did not see that Ammon's back side was not a pretty sight!!! Where did Devin put Ammon???? On my bed!!!!! So I had to clean the swing, blanket, MY BED, and an outfit! It is not easy to get out. Thanks Devin for being my little helper!!! No more explosions please!

Our Family

2010-11-03T14:03:00.003+01:00

Here are our wonderful pictures our friend did for us!

I think this is my favorite even if Jarom is not smiling!

This is what Jarom did everytime you say, "SMILE!"

We got a little smile here.

My boy is growing up!

Try not to look at the camera or smile!

Love thoughs eyes

No smiles here either

Looking at his silly parents trying to get me to smile!

Busy Weekend

2010-10-31T12:49:00.002+01:00

You sure know you love your family when the time flys by. Weekends sure go by fast when Daddy is around. We must love him.

We are lucky to have a photographer in our ward. She agreed to takes some pictures of us. Here is a sample of what to come after I get all the pictures.

It sure is harder to get pictures when you have more children. Jarom and Ammon refused to smile. Below is the only picture we got of Jarom smiling. It was our first picture taken.

Note to self: Do not put a 2 year old in a white shirt while at a park. I still have stains. Next wash I will have to use more bleach!

Friday was our ward Halloween party with Trunk or Treat.

We also went to the Library for Halloween crafts. Here is Jarom's craft.

spider web was Devin's craft.

Here are the boys posing for me. Jarom was very unsure about costumes. I had to give him a lolly pop inorder to get his costum on.

Friday

2010-10-29T14:01:00.003+02:00

Today we went to Devin's school to help with their pumpkins, counting seeds. Very hard to keep the kids on task to count 572 seeds in our pumpkin but it was fun! I took in cupcakes for the class to eat after lunch.

You know you are a true mom when you hear a loud explosion from your baby,

and you are just happy you are still at home when it happens!

Here are some instant smiles I get after an explosion!!!

It's hard to take a picture while holding him but I got some of the smiles.

I have been selling all our German 220V things online which has been fun.
Yesterday I sold all my plants in one day. People sure want plants here. It's hard to let go of all my plants I love so much but the things you have to do when you move.
Can you tell I am ready to move?????
Isn't time to move yet?
I think I might be made for the Army because after a year, I am ready to move again.
Or maybe it's just a Germany thing.