My Life Is A Tripp

June 2018

2018-06-30T14:38:00.002-07:00

ANOTHER busy, but fun month! OIT has continued to be successful for Tripp! We are on track to finish up the beginning of October.

The Child family came to town for a Moab Vacation, we did lots of hiking, biking and hanging out. The kids CRASHED out the second it was over.

Tripp finished baseball season, he also had his very first SLURPEE ever! It was exciting.

There was a large fire in Moab that was close enough to give us all a good scare, our house stayed in the clear, but 10 homes were a total loss about a mile away from us.

We welcomed a new fur baby to the family, an 8 week old (Birthday is May 3rd 2018) Great Dane puppy! We named him Mozzie, Jon has been begging for one FOREVER. So far, Mozzie has already become Jon's shadow, he's fitting in great with all the humans, and is working on the other animals, he's terrified of the cats, due to one smacking him the first day he was here, and Mani just finds him to be extremely annoying, Mani is slightly jealous and has old man syndrome when Mozzie pounces around him like a pogo-stick.

Caron, Dustin and Jon rode The Whole Enchilada, well almost the whole enchilada.

The Child family at Millcreek.

Caff at Millcreek.

A few of the crew rode Slickrock! They mostly survived.

Most of them did Bar M... Safety first... wear a helmet while running :-)

Tripp!

Bar M Crew.

Tripp and Jon on the ledge.

The BIG hike.... was Delicate Arch.

Our Mani!

The boys swimming with Todd!

Sums them up... total opposites, Caffrey all snuggled into his blankets, and Tripp... well.... not.

It's tough being a kid.

This is Andi, she LOVES Tripp.

When they like each other.

Baseball

The boys all camped in the backyard one night. Caff clung tightly to his flashlight, and Jon, but Jon moved him away once he was asleep. They loved it. One of these days, we will go REAL camping. Maybe :)

Finally caught a good pic of these two! :-)

These 3..... Caffrey, Tripp and Izzy

Grandma Connie came for a visit and to watch one of Tripp's games!

The boys started Montessori School for the Summer. Caffrey will be going there this coming school season until preschool starts, so we thought it would be a good transition, and something to do for summer time.

Some of the smoke from the fire.

FIRST SLURPEE!

Baseball pics!

Todd got a Traeger for Fathers Day, ALL the boys were super interested!

The day we picked Mozzie up! He was one of 13 in the litter!

This is pretty much how he lays, all the time!

More awkward Mozzie.

Mani wanted a drink... and thought this was the best way to do that.

Todd was teaching Tripp how to Traeger!

May 2018

2018-06-30T14:03:00.002-07:00

May, another successful month of OIT for Tripp! No major reactions so far! Tripp also graduated Kindergarten the end of May and we had an awesome visit from Nana, Todd and Todd's family.

Clearly moms kid!

Safety First :-)

Awwww these boys!

On one of our drives back to Moab from SLC, we stopped at Spanish Fork Starbucks and these guys were all hanging out there. Tripp was SUPER intrigued by them, he had just been learning about Memorial Day and what it means, so he kept relating it back to that. He was nervous but he went up and talked to them, and they were VERY cool guys! They chatted with him, and gave him some cool patches right off their uniforms. Tripp's day was made!

Caff... when dad mows the lawn.

Mia got injured and had to learn the hard way on leaving it alone. She was not amused by her new accessory. She is better now, and maybe, just maybe learned a lesson or two.... but probably not.

He hasn't fallen asleep on either of us in FOREVER, so had to capture that moment.

Caffrey and Oaklee..... cute cousins!

Girls day out for Mothers Day! Pedicures!

It's Dirty Beach time! AKA Millcreek :-)

Just hangin.....

More dirty beach!

Caffrey got a REAL haircut! He asked for his hair to be short! He was sick of it getting in his eyes, we were sad to cut it, and lose those long curls, but it is more manageable this way and he loves it :-)

Brothers

Tripp made some friends at OIT.

Caff ran into a wooden sword at the baseball game one night, it barely missed his eyeball!

When we can't play outside.....

Swimming at the house that Nana and Todd rented while visiting Moab.

Tripp learned how to play Marco Polo with Cody and Shandra.

Tripp's graduation from Kindergarten!

Mom and Caff watching Tripp play ball!

Tripp got to ride on a dirt bike!

April 2018

2018-06-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

Another busy month! Easter, Caffrey turned 3, Tripp played soccer, mom coached soccer (yikes), checked out the aquarium for the first time, Tripp got student of the month in school, Caffrey potty trained, the boys are back to sharing a room, and our continued weekly visits to Salt Lake for OIT, with another successful month of treatments!

Easter fun.

Easter egg hunt at Nana and Todds house.

We have become very stubborn on doing things ourselves.

Tripp got a set of golf clubs that him and Caff had to try out!

This isn't creepy at all...... because we told the neighbors we creep on them, so it's okay :-)

Tripp and moms soccer team!

The aquarium with Todd! This was so much fun! We had no idea it was such a cool place! The boys loved it! Almost as much as mom did :-)

Holding a butterfly!

They were a little confused on how this works.

Tripp's favorite part.... THE SHARKS!

Caffrey made a friend at soccer too, her name is Abby!

BRING ON THE TERRIBLE 3's! Happy Birthday little wild man!

BASEBALL!

Celebrating with the Gibson's!

Celebrating with the Childs!

Just hanging out in the ball pit!

Who gave him all these balls?!?!?! The point of the game... to get them EVERYWHERE!

Tripp's student of the month award!

What OIT looks like this week! Egg is on the left and milk is on the right.

Oh this face....

Mom had painted toe nails... so of course the boys had to get theirs done too. And Nana can't say no.

The first day of potty training Caffrey kept having meltdowns over wearing underwear, finally half way through the day I asked him why he doesn't like them, he said just cause, he doesn't.... (not helpful). I asked if he wanted to go to the store and pick out some underwear he liked, he was totally down for that idea, and said he wanted pink. We went to Shopko, I showed him all the underwear and this is what he picked. From that point on, was completely fine with his underwear.

Back to sharing a room!

Pure fashion!

Caffrey decided he wanted to check out the baby... until he cried.. he gave him back pretty quick.

Tripp holding Emerson, Izzy and Caffrey. Best buddies for life!

Baby Emerson just realized how cool aunt Space is!

March 2018

2018-06-30T13:17:00.000-07:00

March was busy, but exciting. Tripp got to start his allergy treatments (OIT) in Salt Lake at Tanner Clinic! If this treatment goes well with no set backs, he will be basically not have the allergy issue or at least it won't be a danger anymore! He will be able to eat dairy and eggs freely!

March was still cool enough to be outside ALL the time.

Sir Cuteness.

We hiked Corona Arch with Nadena and Mike! It was a great hike for kids! Tripp did the whole thing by himself!

Caffrey had some assistance.

Serious brotherly chats

First OIT March 12, 2018!

We are pretty stoked!

Both the kids have become CRAZY sleepers! Only Caff has fallen out so far though.

We had an awesome (ugh) traffic delay for 2 hours on one of our trips to SLC. The boys had to pee.......I had to take a pic!

Tripp, Izzy and Emerson. Tripp LOVES holding the babes!

Mom and Tripp hanging out before OIT! One of our MANY weekly visits!

Tripp found HIS place in the OIT room, under a table, it was his fort!

Life is exhausting.

Dad life :-)

More Tripp and Emerson

Easter with the Child family!

The whole crew!

More crazy sleeping!

Uncle Todd plus kids, plus snapchat.... GOOD times :-)

February 2018

2018-03-21T10:09:00.002-07:00

February 2018

Mando and Izzy came for a visit! The kids had a blast together!

Clothes are over rated around here...

When the kids get a hold of the phone...

A boy and a pup!

He's always smiling!

We had a sick day.... it sucked. Yes, he's sleeping in this pic haha.

Tripp was SO excited to make his own Valentines this year!

Mani steals the decorative pillows anytime he thinks we aren't watching.

Nightly reading.

Tripp had his allergy test this month. As you see, they were itchy! In general his milk and egg allergy got worse. We decided to start OIT: (see definition below) We are REALLY excited for this treatment and the possibility to NOT have Tripp deal with allergies anymore, he's been a champ about it, but it's still hard, and scary every single day! We will be going to Salt Lake weekly until we are done with the program.

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) provides a long-term solution for milk, egg, peanut, and wheat allergic patients. It usually takes less than six months, and at the end of the program, most patients are able to consume the foods that once threatened their health with no allergic reaction.

The treatment works by introducing minute doses of wheat, peanut, egg or milk in solution form for about 6 months, the time varying according to individual differences. The program progresses to small doses of the whole food for a number of months, allowing the patient to eat these foods. The treatment allows the vast majority of patients to overcome their wheat, milk, egg and peanut allergies.

He fell asleep in the car... and this happened.

Mani making good use out of my lack of laundry doing.

He made a comfy bed on the floor to watch his tablet.

January 2018

2018-03-21T09:54:00.003-07:00

January 2018

About the only time he's quiet :-)

These 3 are inseparable most the time.

We ventured out on cold, but sunny day! Dad was working, but we had fun!

Comfy

He fell asleep with the Tickle Monster gloves on!

He was entertained for HOURS with beans!

We quit napping..... it was exhausting!

I have NO idea what he's doing, but had to take a picture.

Sometimes our house is quiet... if they aren't sleeping... this is probably why...

December 2017

2018-03-21T09:48:00.001-07:00

December was full of fun and Christmas festivities! Although, not a ton of pictures from Christmas for some reason... oops!

Dad life!

When I try to clean out toys.... he helps.... ugh.

RIP Precious 12/4/17. We lost this sweet girl this month. She was 17 years old! We had many good years with this sweet snuggle bug.

Best place in the house to watch TV.

Fashion accessories...

The boys in the kitchen!

Mia was obsessed with the tree... we had bets going on who would knock it over first, we are shocked it wasn't her!

Christmas is for SWEET ROLLS!

Caff letting Tripp do his hair!

This is how we had to transition Caff from a crib to a big bed....

He tries to give me a heart attack on a daily basis.

Gingerbread house making!

Salt Lake is exhausting.

He has to pack his whole life on car rides...

November 2017

2018-03-21T09:38:00.000-07:00

November 2018! We celebrated Thanksgiving and Jon's Birthday! Other than that, pretty normal month for us!

Caff loves to help out in the kitchen.

He also loves to NOT wear clothes.... ever. But a tool belt is okay. :-)

Jon turned 34 this year!

Caff being funny.

We had some good weather days and were able to go play at the dirt bike park! Both boys are getting quite adventurous with no fear!

Just Caff... being Caff.....

He's so sweet sometimes :-)

More... Caff....

Tripp taking Mani out for a stroll. Mani wasn't too sure about it, but they both survived.

When they like each other....

Tripp had a performance for Thanksgiving. He is very serious and intense, he did a GREAT job!

Thanksgiving festivities at school!

The dog bed is a comfy place to relax.

So is the storage bin.

Look mom, we look just like you! (Not sure what that means)

Thanksgiving in Salt Lake, with cousins!

Street ball :-)

Some pics from Cabo!

October 2017

2017-11-18T14:25:00.003-08:00

Tripp's Kindergarten Picture!

When he thinks I'm not looking, he goes for my nice pillows!

Caff....

His own Starbucks Frappucino

That hair...

Tripp's way of keeping Caff away... a pillow barricade.

During the Ute's games, really not sure why we have a couch!

When dad gives you a snack... it's the whole bag...

What happens when we play with a centipede

The Wheeler Farm Pumpkin Patch.

Caff did NOT like how this slide ended. (Fast and on his bum)

They fell asleep the second we got off the plane in Cabo.

Vacation was relaxing, even for Caff.

Cabo had some awesome views.

Sleepovers in Cabo!

They loved the beach!

It was pool time pretty much all the time!

These 2 had to watch the Utes lose, even in Cabo.

Hanging out with Uncle J, jammin to some music.

Beach Day!

Everyone wants to be a Mermaid/Merman!

The Dolphin experience! Tripp LOVED it!

So did Jon!

Caff, not so much! But he did okay.

Everyone in the pool!

September 2017

2017-10-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

September! Caffrey started pre-preschool, and then the school closed at the end of the month due to the teacher moving, so Caff is NOT attending school anymore. He just hangs out at home with us ALL day!

Nana and Todd came down for a visit, we showed them the dinosaur park! (Moab Giants) It was fun, but VERY hot still! We also had JD and Jodi for a visit, a quick trip but fun!

We made a quick trip up to SLC for Grant's funeral, visited with family, and came back home!

He had a cold and was VERY upset with his nose, this was the only way to fix it, or at least make him stop freaking out!

Moab Giants!

The boys had to try out the dino wagon!

Dad getting in on the Dino digging action.

Caff's first day of school!

Caff checking out the school..... before he freaked out.

September still had some popsicle worthy days!

He LOVES being first at the bus stop... front of the line!

Caff and Tripp with JD and Jodi!

The monkeys at the park!

We were at the park one Saturday and this officer stopped by to hang out! Showed the kids his cool car, his cool "toys" and let them get in his car and turn the lights on! They LOVED it!

He showed them where they do NOT want to sit in the cop car! :-)

Of course Tripp had to ask how the handcuffs worked! He was a little surprised he couldn't get them off as easy as his toy ones!

This kid...

We call this Caffrey's perch.

We visited dad at work one morning. Caff got to check out all the cool things dad gets to play with everyday!

Caff loves to play lego's. This picture made me laugh because he situated his baby so nicely in the chair before starting to play.

Soccer in action.... Jon is coaching again this season and the kids love him as usual! He is such a good coach! All the parents comment on how awesome he is with the kids and teaching them things! We may have heard he's the favorite a few times ;)

Caffrey LOVES to pick Tripp up from the bus stop! He gets SO MAD if I go without him! He just waits for the bus and as soon as he see's it, he jumps around and gets SO excited!

While in SLC for the funeral, Caff forgot how to sleep during the night, or how to nap during the day, it was pretty awful! He had a day of playing with cousins and his uncle Dave's (yes, there's 2) chasing him around and he couldn't fight it anymore!

Connie found this old note from Jon as a kid... I had to take a pic of course!

August 2017

2017-09-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

August was a big and busy month! Tripp turned 6! We had a little celebration at home on his real birthday, then had a friends birthday party in Salt Lake! Tripp also started Kindergarten! He was SO excited to go to school, and even more excited to ride the bus!

Mom and Dad got to have a date day when Nana Connie came down for the weekend, and we took off to the river to run what Moab calls "They Daily" It's a 14 mile section of the Colorado River with some fun/crazy rapids that were much bigger when actually on them than they looked from the road! :-). It was the longest I (mom) had been away from the kids, pretty much ever, but it was so much fun! We survived, and so did Nana Connie after spending the entire day with the munchkins!

Tripp's 6th Birthday!

Chocolate cake, vanilla and oreo frosting.

Our first adventure in the new ride!

Uncle JD has the COOLEST toys! Virtual reality games are apparently a little confusing to 6 year olds! But it was pure entertainment for the rest of us!

We visited a water park with Molly while in Salt Lake! Caff has become a little shy around her ever since she kissed him. Hahah.

I love this picture of ALL the boys running through the water, mainly cause the picture has the nice bold NO RUNNING writing in it!

Jon is pure trouble... no wonder where the boys get it :-)

The awesome Birthday Party in Salt Lake!

Tripp

Molly

Caffrey

Izzy

Ella

Ash

All the kids (and adults) claiming their prizes! :-)

I didn't put all the millions of presents pictures on here, but had to share this one..... cause he's actually sharing with his brother! Gotta catch these moments when you can!

Jon trying to play cards with Charlie.... Charlie looks terrified.

It was a hard weekend of partying!

They ditched the big table to dine at their own.

This.... equals peace and quiet..... at least for a few minutes!

These rare moments!

Rotary Park

If one chair is good, four is better.

Have you tried these??? If you haven't you're missing out.... only the best invention....ever.

Our river adventure begins......

The middle of our adventure... a few rapids down... a few more to go. At this point I don't think either of us had fallen in yet... we both did later.

Summer time is for Popsicles!

The backyard is a boys playground.

The night before school started dad ditched us to go to work, so we had a dinner time picnic at the lake.... Goodbye summer!

Tripp's first day of school!

Caff had to be a part of the picture taking of course.

Waiting for the bus!

It wasn't until after he left and we were back home that we realized he didn't even say goodbye! No hugs, no kisses, nothing! We were all apparently way too distracted for all of that! When he got home he was still SO excited over school and it has stayed that way... still today (Sept 22nd) :-)

We just kinda hang out now... just the 2 of us... sometimes 3.

He randomly will put all his toys and himself in this dog bed, and just hangs out....

He's always up for adventure, very determined and eager to cause mom stress!

Strutting his stuff.....

When we have time, and weather permitting, we walk to the bus stop.

These two.....

Super heroes in action.

Caff testing out the new car accessory!

At the bus stop being as cool as ever! Love this boy!

July 2017

2017-09-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

Blogging has gotten away from me, as life has gotten in the way :-) In July we spent a lot of our free time out at the lake enjoying our new paddle boards! We spent a little time in Salt Lake for Ellie and Tips wedding! The worst part of our summer was losing our beloved furry companion, Louie, he was such a loyal, sweet, tank of a dog! We will miss him!

Caff spent a lot of time sitting on the board while it was on shore, warming up to the idea of being in the middle of the lake. He eventually did really awesome!

Nana Connie came down for a quick visit, and we got her up on the paddle board! We are pretty sure she liked it... maybe?

Caff hanging out with Nana... on dry land.

Kids LOVE Jon, so naturally when there are 2 paddle boards with 2 adults... all the kids flock to Jon's board. Good thing he can balance! (Dylan, Jon, Ellie and Tripp)

We went to the lake a few times with this group of kids, they all played really well together, lots of adventure and lots of fun. They even went fishing one time, Tripp's first ever fishing experience, and he actually caught a fish! We didn't get a picture though.

Caff... again... chillin on the shore.

This is kind of our happy place!

Caff pretty much only cares about food at the lake.

Of course this CUTE photo includes one of them shooting the other with a squirt gun, but still... brotherly love right?

Tripp's T=Ball Picture!

Our trip to Salt Lake always includes fun in the hot tub!

After years of contemplating, we finally added a new member to the family! 2012 Chevy Tahoe, or as Caffrey calls it, Ahoe.

Towards the end of Louie's life, Mia was extra attentive, always bugging Louie and trying to cuddle, Louie was his usual self and just ignored her, and usually just walked away, but this time, he let her snuggle for a while.

This cute little grumpy face....

The boys were serenading Louie with a harmonica.... it was pretty adorable.

When the boys do laundry....

Caff helping mom work.... Ugh.

Sometimes the dog bed is more comfy than our own crib.

These 3 have such a special bond. Both boys are total daddy's boys!

Someone has learned the awesomeness of electronics....

Lou followed Jon everywhere ever since Griffin passed away, he was literally dying this night, I'm pretty sure it was the night before we had to put him down, and he would still just fight to stand up and follow Jon around. It was so sad, but so cute at the same time. Such loyalty and companionship in our fur baby! RIP Louie 7/31/17

Grocery shopping adventures.

Fun in Salt Lake.

One night Nana Connie came by and had cousins Carlee and Oaklee with her, the kids got to play and hang out for a while. And of course make fun with chalk ... on everyone and everything :-)

Those faces pretty much say it all! Caffrey and Molly.

My work had their annual Summer Party, and I received a 10 year award. It was very unexpected, and very awesome! Time flies when you're having fun :-)

June 2017

2017-07-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

June was fun! Tripp did swim lessons, he had a great time and learned a lot! Even how to go off the diving board! We went to the lake any time we could get away, had visitors and even went to a circus... yes apparently Moab has one... kinda.

Louie... our old man is getting OLD!

Swim lessons!

When they actually sit still... it's so rare!

Circus time! It was pretty fun! Definitely not the normal circus we grew up with! But the kids were entertained, their favorite parts were the elephants and the magic show!

He likes to get stuck in the couch!

Tripp and the diving board! HE LOVED the diving board!

Learning to dive.

Lake time!

Lake time with friends! Amanda, Tyrone and Izzy came out for a visit! We had a last minute decision to go to the lake, we enjoyed it so much that we pretty much go out every weekend!

Mani... just being cute.

He tried to dress himself.

The boys got new life jackets... Caffs is also a toddler carrier. :-)

He wanted to go swimming.... he's ready.

The boys.

I got an early birthday present from the boys! Paddle boards! They are SO much fun!

When we can, we like to go on morning walks!

More lake time.

Caff... just being Caff.

Lake time with friends! Caffrey, Tripp, Ellie and Dylan.

May 2017

2017-07-29T11:23:00.001-07:00

May was a mellowish month for us. Lots of park time and being outside, before the weather got TOO hot! Tripp graduated Pre-School and got his shots for Kindergarten.... He's ready to go!

Finding fun things to do inside on those days that ARE too hot to be outside.

Caffrey doesn't let anyone brush his hair, it's a battle we usually don't care to fight.

He let me brush it this ONE time... and this is what happened.

Then Caffrey got the brush back....

Tripp insisted this was the best way to do his homework.

Caffrey at his 2 year check up... this picture was taken before he realized we were in fact at the doctors office. There were no smiles after that. He is still absolutely MISERABLE at the Dr office, they don't even give him shots and he will cry and scream the ENTIRE time, for no reason.

Before we gave Caff a haircut.. we had to mohawk it with Shampoo.

The boys made this for me for Mother's Day. It required lots of patience from what I hear :-)

Always a mess...

Pre-School Graduation. Tripp is the one wearing sunglasses. He insisted on wearing them the whole time.

Caff and dad watching Tripp!

Getting his diploma.

Tripp and his teacher Miss Lori.

Getting shots for Kindergarten.

More Caff hair...

LOTS of sprinkler time!

Tripp and dad relaxing.

Pool time!

We went to visit dad at his work. Caff enjoyed sitting on the mechanics desk.

Tripp was playing dress up.

Tripp and Caff dug a huge hole in the backyard... Caff had to see how well he could fit.

Tripp and dad getting ready for a bike ride... Caff was pretty sure he was going... he wasn't.

April 2017

2017-05-12T13:31:00.000-07:00

April was pretty awesome! We finished up soccer games, started T-ball, had a visit from Gayle and Pat, whom we haven't seen in 2 years, and Caffrey turned 2!

The pics below are slightly a mess and not in order... I don't battle with technology much... it wins. So there's that :)

Any time Tripp was sitting out in soccer, waiting his turn, Caff would go sit by his brother and cheer on the rest of the team.

Dirt EVERYWHERE ... always.... it's pretty much pointless to vacuum the house these days.

Tripp lost his first tooth on April 6th!

Even monsters need cake and ice cream :-)

Tripp has always been such a GOOD, but crazy sleeper, he moves all over the place. In the middle of the night, we often hear at least one THUD, usually his head into the wall, it doesn't even phase him, yet wakes me up, and I'm clear across the hall. So we like to take pictures when he's sleeping.. cause it amuses us :-)

This is not the same night as the picture above.... we are really surprised he has never fallen out of bed.. yet.

Got the boys passports done! We are now ready for Mexico!

Caff and Mani playing with their favorite things... water, dirt and mud!

Our visit with Gayle and Pat, it was like no time had passed, we just started where we left off!

The boys showing Gayle and Pat around the trail by our house.

Basketball has become a new fave around here.

Monster Caff

For Caff's birthday, JD and Jodi even came to visit! It was a fun group to hang with for the weekend!

Caffrey's Birthday cake! Happy 2nd Birthday buddy!

Tripp enjoyed a box from Caff's birthday! He laid there watching a movie FOREVER!

We also had Easter....This year we had umbrellas for Easter baskets!

Caff's birthday was ON Easter this year, we celebrated Caff's birthday on Saturday to attempt to divide the craziness. But it all basically meshed together.

Cool tool table and set Caff got for his Birthday, it keeps them both entertained for a good amount of time!

Easter egg hunting!

Caff was waiting so patiently for JD to play.

These days they seem to play together more often than not. Which is great, however it still makes for some great sibling battles... which annoy mom.

Baby Burritos!

The kid has some style.

More Tripp sleeping adventures.

He likes to HELP mom work....

Tripp........

Brothers.... when they are NOT being loud and crazy.

This mischievous little guy, he sure keeps us on our toes!

T-ball started this month, and Caff is all for it! He likes to do anything the big kids are doing! It's pretty hard to keep him OUT of their space during practices and games!

Jon and Tripp warming up before the first practice. Jon is coaching this year, and got a team of 9 kids!

The parents on the team are awesome, they always want to join in and help out.

Caff made a friend at T-ball.. he also made a mess... but they were happy about it.

The boys at Tripps Easter Egg hunt at school. Caff got to join the fun :-)

He stole someone's glasses. (Jd or Jodi?)

Caff loves to sit on Tripps lap.. MOST the time, Tripp is accepting of this.

JD and Jon putting together the tool bench the night before the birthday. It was a little more complex than we were thinking.

Some Birthday pictures!

Some more Easter pictures.

March 2017

2017-04-08T09:26:00.000-07:00

Our March has been full of soccer! Lots and lots of soccer! 3 days a week, 1 practice and 2 games, but only for about 5 weeks! Tripp had lots of fun, mainly at the games, he definitely has a competitive side (shocker), Jon enjoyed substitute coaching a few times, and all the kids LOVE him. Caffrey enjoyed causing mischief and chaos on the sidelines and making friends with his cuteness.

Caff being sassy

Snuggle time with dad

Brother snuggles

Caff helping mom work... "helping".

Good thing he is cute!

Just getting a tan.

Our OCD crazy clean child actually enjoys getting buried in dirt!

I just love this pic of them. :-)

Dad putting caff to use as the card holder!

Intense part of the soccer game.

Caff was a little unsure of the slides, but after dad went down with him one time... he had NO fear and even went on the big slide... head first... backwards... everything.

Caff discovered tootsie pops! A friend at the grocery store gave him one! Made his day!

More snuggles. He only does this when he's tired! Or just waking up from a nap, otherwise, you can't keep him still!

Crazy kid!

They were enjoying the sun while it lasted! March weather has been crazy! We've had summer, winter, spring and fall all in one month!

February 2017

2017-03-22T13:05:00.001-07:00

Our February

The cute boys... chillin on the couch.

Our half naked pirate visiting me at my desk.

Tripp was insistent we make homemade lemonade, it's a new favorite! Plus, it's fun to make!

We made homemade corn dogs! They were a hit!

Our superbowl fun.... food, snacks and football!

He was protesting me working.... I couldn't deny that face :-)

Smiles and smiles... all the time!

They are happiest when they are outside!

Hanging out with Nana Debra.

Having fun with his Valentines card from Nana Connie.

Mia waits for Tripp every morning to give her snuggles and loves.

Our Valentines treat! The boys wanted fruit and chocolate (Tripp safe of course).

Tripp was creating a new style.

So was Caffrey...No pants, No problem.

Tripp hanging out with Charlie on Nana's bed.

Caff and Molly...just hangin out.
Caff becomes a different dude when Molly is around... quiet, calm, shy... it's pretty weird.. we don't know this kid.

Brother loves.

They discovered Snapchat... and it's adorable.

January 2017

2017-02-18T08:04:00.000-08:00

January was super mellow for all of us, most of the month was cold outside, so we had lots of indoor time! I got lots of pictures of the boys playing together, it's a little rare to see them actually playing together WITHOUT screaming, fighting or yelling. So ya gotta get pics while it lasts :-) Nothing too exciting this month. Tripp is still going to pre-school and liking it, has some new friends at school He asks lots of questions about Kindergarten, so we think he's getting a little excited for that. :-) Caff is always into something, he now opens doors on his own, he talks a lot, not making much sense, but is good at communicating what he's trying to say in other ways, pointing, showing us, etc.

Caff LOVES to vacuum with me any and every time I vacuum. Whenever he sees the vacuum he gets super excited and will run and grab his to vacuum along side me.

Everyone loves ice cream cones!

Watching the snow fall.

Playing in the snow.

Lego time!

He was mad that I was trying to take a picture, so he laid down and wouldn't look at me.

Chillin.

Amanda, Tyrone and Izzy came down for a visit. We even had a decent weather day and got to play outside a little bit!

They were up to something.

Action shot.

Caff still has to do everything Tripp does. He is Tripp's little shadow.

Caff was having a rough day, and let mom snuggle him :-)

Back to mischief.

Tripp and dad went up to the La Sals for some sledding time! They had a ton of fun! They took two sleds, but this one ended up being the fave.

Happy boys in the snow!

December 2016

2017-01-05T11:55:00.000-08:00

Our December

We had to re-create this pic from Tripp 5 years ago :) Tripp on the left, Caff on the right.

Tripp had a reading goal for a month, if he achieved it, he got a skateboard! As you can see, SUCCESS!

Our toddler proof tree!

Such good manners....

Dad and Tripp were making Gingerbread houses (graham cracker houses) and Caff swiped in and stole the good stuff. Dad was supposed to be watching.... haha.

We finally decided to give little man his first haircut! It was getting a little out of control!

The end result! Still curly! Less crazy!

Brothers just chillin.

Caff likes to steal stuff off my desk..... this was one of the funnier thing he swiped.

I ruined his life by not letting him have my Starbucks!

Who needs sticky notes?

Seriously non stop mess this kid!

Tripp made an awesome block castle and insisted I take a picture, before Caffrey ruins it!

We think the colander shrunk!

Any time you want this kid to take a pic.. he has to flash the UTES sign! Dad trained him well!

The boys waiting for dad to land! Perfect spot to watch for helicopters!

Tripp wanted to sit with mom.... and Caff wanted to sit with Tripp... this is how that worked out :-)

Even with short hair.. it gets a little crazy!!!

Christmas with the Gibson's!

Caff hanging out with Aunt Lea!

Christmas Eve... New Jammies!

Christmas morning. Caffrey was obsessed with his Vacuum! It kinda stole the show!
Santa brought Caffrey a BIG pirate ship and pirate gear! He also got lots of cars, trucks, a bouncing toy, a little bike, sports stuff and books!

Christmas morning for Tripp!
Santa brought Tripp a REAL basketball hoop and a spyglass!
Tripp also got laser tag guns, night vision goggles, walkie-talkies, binoculars, finger skateboards, and other fun toys!

Caff enjoying a box...at the Child Family Christmas get together.

Caff's pirate ship! Which will be an outdoor toy once it warms up!

Tripp's first FORD! Unky J and Aunt Jo got him a remote control truck, just like J.D'S REAL truck!

Mom's present! Who would have thought in a million years I would have wanted one of these???? :-)

After Christmas Caff came down with croup! What an awful virus! At first we thought it was just a regular virus since he was running a fever for a few days with no other symptoms, then he woke up one day and seemed to be struggling to breathe... so we took him in and sure enough.. croup! We have never seen him so mellow! We had 2 days of literally just snuggling... he wanted nothing to do with anything other than sleep and snuggles. :(

Pirate ships are also good for watching TV in :-)

Day 3 of croup and we finally got smiles :-)

November 2016

2017-01-05T10:57:00.000-08:00

Our November, summed up in pictures.

Our annual Santa photo with the cousins! The winner for who LOVES Santa the most this year goes to, again, one of our children... Caffrey!

Our kids progression with Santa through the years, from bottom right 2011, 2012, 2013, bottom left 2014, 2015 and 2016.

We spent Thanksgiving in Salt Lake this year. Got to spend time with both families, but had Thanksgiving with the Gibson side.

I was lucky enough to spend half a day with friends! NO KIDS. We went to lunch and got pedicures!

Caff and his crazy hair (pre-haircut).

This kid can sleep through anything. We are surprised he hasn't made it off his bed yet.

On November 2nd, we celebrated Jon's Birthday! 33 years young! (Physically anyway) :-) As usual, he got UTES stuff. His closet is pretty much Utes, helicopter and biking gear.

He also got some cupcakes :-)

Somebody went stamp happy on their brother.

FOOD is what makes this kid happy! We don't know how he stays so little! All he does is eat! EVERYTHING. He is not picky at all, the only thing he hasn't liked so far is squash, oh and he's not a fan of milk (any kind) which is another complete opposite of Tripp, Tripp has always loved his milk (rice milk), Caff could care less if he ever gets it.

He looks like he just did something mischievous, but really he just shoved the whole bottom of a ice cream cone in his mouth... ya know, cause that's what dad does!

Now THIS one, IS mischievous, ALWAYS, he wanted to see if dad raises his blood pressure as much as he raises dads!

We took Caff out to eat one day... and learned that he likes to eat crayons.... ICK! We have since fixed this problem... for the most part.

We all had dentist appointments this month. Tripp did awesome. I was worried about it not being a pediatric office, but he was a total sport. It did help that the dental assistant was pretty awesome too. No cavities. Awesome teeth, and some are even getting loose!

Sup guys?

He now thinks he has to have milkshakes like dad. Both these kids are complete Daddy's boys!

And this one has to do everything Tripp does! EVERYTHING!

Caff's turn at the dentist... he did great, until someone actually tried to touch him! AH!

Caff loves when Aunt Na comes to visit. He always gives her lots of snuggles and lots of attention.

We had the boys sharing a room for about 2 weeks. It worked out great for the most part, but Caffrey is just a horrible sleeper, very restless and loud. So we moved them back to separate rooms to make sure everyone gets enough sleep!

In this picture, they were showing dad how to sing the Crocodile song.

When they actually hang out together! Caff is definitely the cuddler of the 2!

Someone REALLY likes Starbucks! It makes him happy! No idea where he gets this! :-)

Soaking up some of the last few WARM days!

He always puts blankets all around his face! It makes mom crazy.

More Sup....

Over Thanksgiving, Tripp played with Uncle Doug. They were a pretty good match!

We just can't get enough of these eyes!!!

Family Pictures October 2016

2016-11-18T14:41:00.001-08:00

We decided to do some family pictures in Moab with just our little family. We met an awesome photographer and love how they turned out!

October 2016

2016-11-18T14:18:00.000-08:00

October, we had a visit to Salt Lake to do an Allergy Challenge for Tripp. We challenged wheat and passed! So Tripp can now officially have Wheat. We were all pretty excited over that. It's been rough getting wheat into his diet, he is a finicky eater apparently, what kid doesn't like Teddy Grahams? Or Club Crackers? Or PB&J Sandwiches??? OURS.. our kid does NOT like these things! It's been awesome knowing he is safe with one more food now! So down to 2 allergies! Milk and Egg. Both of these are really high still, so the doctor will not recommend a challenge for a while, but POSSIBLY a baked challenge at some point in the nearer future... :-)

Caffrey had his 18 month check up this month, he is healthy, has all his teeth (except 2 year molars), he is 20.4 pounds (3rd%) 31.25 inches long (19th%), we really don't know how he is staying so small, this kid eats ALL THE TIME! He LOVES food, ALL food and anything you have he thinks is his and you must share, or just give it to him :-) He is very active, loves to play and loves to do anything and everything that big brother does!

Getting a little cold down here!

Finishing up the soccer season.

Bribery to make him chill out at the store!

Both our kids love to sleep in crazy positions and all over the place.

Lazy, lovey weekends!

Tripp hangin out with Louie while he is still recovering from his abscessed tooth.

Brother love!

He is claiming the WHOLE bed... even when he sleeps.

Caff loved shopping in this cart... we decided we need some for Moab!

Caff repeatedly destroyed Nana's pantry while we were visiting.

Both boys were intrigued by the front loading washer.

Tripp's first official sports picture!

Sometimes when Tripp is at school, mom and Caff go visit dad at work.

At the Dr... he won my Starbucks cup, just so he would stop freaking out. He still absolutely HATES the Dr office, it's almost ridiculous how bad he freaks out. We didn't realize how good we had it with Tripp, Tripp always has been great at Dr appointments, even the ones with shots... Caff.. NOPE, not even close!

One of Caffs favorite toys lately.

Dad and Tripp went on a long bike ride one Saturday, so Caff and I went exploring.

HALLOWEEN!!! We have...The Flash and a Mad Scientist!

We went trunk or treating... dad was Coach Whit! Mom was dressed up too, but never gets IN the pictures! We've never done a trunk or treat, it was actually pretty fun, we still miss the tradition of going to neighbors houses, but this was pretty fun in a small town.

The Flash on a dino!

While we were in Salt Lake we went to the Pumpkin Patch with some friends! Here is Izzy, Tripp, Ella and Caff.

Tripp and Ella

They all really enjoyed the bounce house! And we ALL enjoyed the sleep that came after the bounce house!

September 2016

2016-11-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

In September, after much debate and research, Tripp went back to Preschool for another year, instead of starting Kindergarten, when he does start Kindergarten next year he will be 6 years old. He is loving preschool this time around, he barely even says goodbye to us when we drop him off. He is just excited to go see his friends.

Tripp also started soccer, he really enjoyed playing real games this season. He would have practice on Mondays and games on Wednesdays. He made a few new friends, had lots of fun, learned to pass the ball to his teammates, lots about sportsmanship and his coach was awesome.

Back to school.

We watched our friends 2 boys for a little bit one day. It was only a little chaotic with 4 boys running around!

Tripp and John

We drove Jon up to LaSals to bike "The Whole Enchilada". We got to enjoy the drive and the company on the way back down the mountain... there are SO many cows all over this mountain, and they don't exactly move for you, and when they do move, they are clumsy and practically fall up or down the side of the mountain. So we just kept our distance.. for their safety and ours :-)

We went to the "Dirty Beach" (Tripp named it) with Amanda, Ty and Izzy when they came out for a visit. It is definitely one of our favorite places to be in Moab! Here is Caffrey with another love... STARBUCKS! This kid LOVES his Starbucks!

Tripper and Izzy

Jon built a castle of rocks... he was pretty proud of it.... with how much time and thought went in to this, we had to get a picture :-)

Soccer... soccer... soccer.

Poor Louie's face.... he had an abscessed tooth. Long story short.. he's fine now... and his face is back to normal size.

Sometimes when Tripp is at school, we go on lunch dates.... Caff is usually pretty entertaining.

Our soccer player

Cheeser

Our big man.

Caffrey and his partner in crime... Ali the cat.

Parenting summed up with one picture.

Tripp and his new favorite cup. It's orange, and lights up!

Sometimes they get along.

This hands on the hips stance makes me laugh... no idea where he gets that hahaha.

When dad's in charge....

When mom is working, dad and the boys go exploring. They rode bikes down to the dirty beach!

August 2016

2016-09-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

We had a busy August! We started off with celebrating Tripp's 5th Birthday! He got a new bike "just like dads". He loves it, it has a kick stand, shifters and it's red.... these were Tripp's stated highlights :-). We then went up to Salt Lake for some allergy testing, Heather's Summer Work Party, and also to spread Papa Brandy's ashes, FINALLY.

Grandma Connie gave Caff a taste of her Starbucks drink... he then stole it...

Tripp on his new bike!!!

Tripp was lucky and had BOTH grandmas here for his Birthday!

Boys and Grandmas

Just us :-)

We learned that blue frosting looks really cool... but is AWFUL to clean up!

Tripp and his friend John celebrating.

Caffrey and James (John's little brother)

This kid and boxes... he LOVES them, always has.

Caff really not liking baby jail!

Dirt..... and boys

More dirt....

This boy just likes to be left alone with his milk in the mornings.

We enjoy taking walks while the weather is still awesome.

Caff enjoys making messes and unorganizing moms wallet.

Comfiest spot in the house.

We call this the great wall of Caffrey..... (Jon's way of keeping Caff from climbing the couch... the window, the desk... etc.

Mani and Ali... Ali is the neighbors kitty that likes to visit all the neighbors. The boys LOVE her... she isn't a huge fan of Mani, but she tolerates him.

Entertaining Caff.... eating puffs off the floor...

Caff causing chaos at Nana Debra's house.

Allergy testing! Tripp did awesome! As you can see, it wasn't the best feeling... those big welts on the lower right side are Milk, Egg and HORSE.. yes horse... that was a new one to us...Overall the testing was amazing, we were able to eliminate tree nuts and sesame based on this most recent test results... so as of now his food allergies are... Milk, Egg and Wheat!

Strawberry Lake! Heading up to the cabin, Papa Brandy's favorite place!

Tripp checking out the gate that daddy (Jon) built for Papa Brandy!

The fam.. spreading ashes in Papa Brandy's favorite places all around the cabin.

Boys... sticks.. dirt....

Jo and Tripp sporting the U... as always with this kid.

The hair....

Finishing off the ashes in Strawberry.

Daddy's Boy

The dirt bike park... the boys love this place!

When your brother dresses you..... matching in all stripes!

CHEESE

More playing

Pure Sweetness

The Dirty Beach! We love this place!

More of this hair....

The boys..playing super hero's!

Another one of Jon's Caffrey proof ideas...hahah.

July 2016

2016-08-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

July was fun and busy, we got to celebrate the 4th of July, Tripp did fireworks for the first time (and stayed up WAY past his bedtime!) We went on a family vacation to Snowbird with Jon's side of the family, and spent a little bit of time in SLC.

Caff was having his own toga party.

Making phone calls while eating lunch. He was copying Jon while he was on the phone, it was pretty funny.

Tripp supervising dad while he's on the roof.

Caff figured out how to make his own "pool" in the kitchen. Ugh!

Tripp doing poppers!

Dad and Tripp being trouble and plotting against mom.

Sparklers!

Mesmerized

Within 5 minutes of being at Nana Debra's house, Caffrey found destruction.

Within 24 hours of being in SLC Tripp got sick! Dang allergies!

Caff didn't want anyone but mom and dad to hold him, but didn't want Izzy being held alone either haha.

This old man!

He found that a toddler bed would be perfect for him. It's now on his wish list.

He got lipsticked... and is blissfully unaware.

Interested in Snowbird... they were excited to get out and play.

Dad and Tripp doing the zipline.

The whole crew (mostly).

Mom and Tripp doing the zipline.

Laura is surrounded by boys!

Always have to flash the U sign....It's a must!

Caff... gets the easy ride :-)

Tripp's first rock climb!

Jon and Colby had to turn it into a race of course.

Tripp tried to hitch a ride on mom's back, mom said no, Dave was nice enough to step in and save the toddler! Tripp LOVED it.

He wore himself out on the hike! It is HARD work sitting in a pack for hours and being carried around!

The evolving man bun!

So proud of his man bun!

The bikers! HARDCORE! The Big Mountain Trail at Snowbird, almost 16 miles in distance and 3500 feet of climbing, took a little over 2 hours to get to the top and about 30 minutes to come down.... they all said it was worth it.... :-)

Caff enjoying the park at Snowbird

Caff enjoys stealing other peoples food.... he conned grandma into sharing her breakfast... well I'm pretty sure he ate it all.

We got back from Snowbird and the boys were tired from all the fun.... they were also a bit grumpy! Tripp ended up in time out, Caff joined just for fun, or maybe to antagonize Tripp, but either way, it was worth a picture.

Caff just rolled around on the floor with a blanket... pretending not to be sleepy.

Caffrey had his 15 month check up and shots. He was extremely dramatic about it, screamed at everything, including just the Dr being in the room! He was 19lbs 10oz and about 29 inches long. He's happy, healthy, DRAMATIC and energetic.

I have this obsession with matching jammies!

Sprinkler fun!!!!!

Caff even enjoyed the water!

They love reading books with dad.

Caffrey holding his baby.

The few, rare moments I get them both to cuddle!

We went to Kens Lake on the 24th! I wanted some lake time for my birthday :-)

The boys think they are funny putting the whole box of candles on the cake... I only missed 1, NOT BAD :-)

Trying to find out how this is comfortable sleeping against the hard wood railing.

More cuteness and the front few of his awesome man bun!

SO CUTE! His hair is incredibly messy, long and crazy when not pulled back, but cutting it just sounds sad....:-)

More matching!

Caff's cute outfit that Gayle and Pat got him!

Matching... and being nice to each other... YAY.

Kind of playing together... and Caff sitting on blocks.. again, not sure how that is comfortable.... haha KIDS!