The Cox Clan

Ben

2011-02-23T11:13:00.002-05:00

Ben's 7th Birthday! I can't believe this boy is 7.

(posting a month late as always)
Ben WON this bike at school. The Department of Transportation donated several bikes and scooters to Ben's school. On Fridays the kids walked or ran around the track to earn tickets that were enter into a drawing to win a bike or scooter. Every Friday Ben would say he was going to win the bike . I kept thinking, he sure is going to be disappointed. Well, I guess I was wrong. He won and was so excited. Luckily we had a couple of nice days so he could enjoy it, before it got cold again.

Our backyard has a small hill, or slope. It is awkward and Kory and I were never really sure what to do with it. When the snow started falling Ben knew exactly what to do with it. GO SLEDDING. It is perfect, tall and steep enough that it is fun, but not too much that the kids can't do it themselves. We may just have to keep it for a few more years.

Cruisin

2010-12-23T22:33:00.019-05:00

I guess it is better late than never... For Christmas Kory's parents took us on a Cruise. We were so so excited and had a lot of fun.

We drove to San Diego and the kids were amazing. First stop after we got there was Sea World. I have to say that was my favorite part. It was SUNNY and 80 degrees. Having lived in California until I was 15, I was in heaven, I am a wimp when it comes to cold and snow. Ben, a boy after my own heart, fell in love with San Diego too and is planning on moving there when he is grown. He said a hundred times, and many times since. Ben and Seth looking at the beluga whales. It was to first stop and they couldn't believe it.

The sea otters. Dang Ben wouldn't let me get a good picture of of all three of my boys.

Petting the sharks, with grandpa and Aunt Marissa.

Watching the dolphins.

Touching the sea stars.

Sea Turtle, I think these things are so cool.

Josh and "Unca", Kory's brother Kristofer. Look at Josh's reflection. Love it!

Ben after the Atlantis ride, he had gone on the rapids just before so he was soaked. We where dumb and went at the end.

Cute. Kory got wet on the ride too, although it does look like that something else might have happened.

Waiting for the Shamu Show. It is so amazing what they do with these Killer whales. It kept saying who was the crazy person who first thought "lets train these animals".

I was about to get a good picture of Ben but, no, grandpa had to be silly. You notice he lost his tooth. His other tooth was loose and later that night we walked into Target and he pulled it out too, so the tooth fairy found us in San Diego.

He is such a goof, I should have put the picture in I took before this one. He wanted a picture of his hair.

The next afternoon we headed to Long Beach to board the ship. We walked around, found our cabins and set sail. I was sick... I felt like I had vertigo anytime the ship was moving. I did not like it very much. I bought sea bands and had acupuncture done, it helped for a while but as long as the ship was moving I was dizzy, queasy and very disoriented.

The first stop was Catalina Island.

Our Ship the Carnival Paradise

We had to ride a ferry to get to the Island.

On the Island. It was kind of chilly so we all had to wear jackets.(the whole cruise)

Isn't this guy handsome?

Catalina was mostly shopping, which my boys (Kory included) don't like. We decided the kids would like a glass bottom boat ride. It was cool to see the bottom of the ocean, fish and kelp.

Cute Josh dropped the lid to my chap stick on the glass. I wonder how they got it out.

Looking at the fish.

The boat driver said they have a special "snow" cap mountain here at the island. The lady sitting next to us asked how does that happen? Her husband explained to her.

Chillin on the boat.

While we were "docked" at Catalina at least 100 dolphins swam past the ship. It is hard to see in the picture. It was awesome.

Seth showing off his dance moves.

The Cruise had a cool water slide and Ben was in heaven, he is a fish. Nobody else went swimming we just sat and watched in our jackets. The next day he said my legs hurt. I wonder why he climbed the stairs probably 50 times.

Next stop Ensanda Mexico.

Beautiful.

We went a saw El Bufador. One of only 4 natural blowholes in the world. (Now I have seen two)
It was pretty cool.

Watching and waiting for it to blow.

Form our shopping trip. NACHOOOOO!

It was a lot of fun, but next time no kids. Hehe!

Josh Turns Two

2010-12-22T23:00:00.003-05:00

Josh's Birthday landed on Thanksgiving this year. I can't think of of anything better to be thankful for than this little guy.

Opening presentsPlaying with presents

Blowing out his candles. He got pie this year, a casualty of having his birthday on Thanksgiving, I guess. And like we need one more thing, like cake to eat on Thanksgiving. I always want pie for my birthday not cake. When he gets older he'll have the choose. His Birthday only lands on Thanksgiving every few years anyway.

His new bike, from Grandma and Grandpa. Classic eyes closed.

He may have only just turned two but he acts like he is older, way older.

He does everything his brothers do, even if he shouldn't or even can't

He is stubborn
Very independent.

Wants what he wants, when he wants it.

He talks a lot, yells more.
He loves his mom a lot.
Loves his brothers

and dad.

He is not afraid.

We are so Thankful for this kid.

A Year with Diabetes

2010-11-22T16:22:00.009-05:00

It has been one year since Ben was diagnosed with Type 1 or Juvenile Diabetes.

Last November Ben lost a lot of weight. I thought it was because he had started school. He was acting a little ornery too, but again I thought it was just school.
We went to my moms house for the weekend to go to my uncles wedding and just have a fun time at Grandma's. Only a few hours after arriving I sprang ed my ankle stepping out of my moms front door. I was stuck on the couch the rest of the day and the all of the next. Ben just sat by me the whole time. He wouldn't play. He looked very tired. I thought he was getting a cold or something. My mom went to my uncle's wedding and took me and the boys to my sisters so she could help me with my kids. When we got there Ben asked for a drink and shortly after threw it up. So he was getting sick. Then he slept for 2 hours. When my mom got back I decided just to go home Ben wasn't feeling well and I was a gimp. We drove home and Ben slept the whole time. He threw up again and went to bed shortly after arriving home. The next day he slept til 10. After that he was acting much better, although he said he still had a sore throat. Kory and I went to a football, stupid of us but he said he was better. My sister said he slept the whole time. Came home and slept the rest of the day all night and most of the morning. He was still saying his throat hurt. strep throat right? The next day was Sunday, I took him to an insta care. They did a swab, not strep, the Doctor said he probably just had a very bad cold. Well he slept all day. I knew it was not a cold. Something was seriously wrong. I called my Doctor first thing in the morning and got in that afternoon. I was hysterical. He was just sleeping, not at all coherent. I called Kory and told him I was taking him to the E.R. and he said just take him to the doctor. I told Kory he better come too. He meet me at the doctors. Our Doctor took one look at him and said it looks like new onset diabetes and we need to take him to Primary's Children Hospital. We went to the ER at Primary's. They rushed us in even though there were other people there and it was confirmed Diabetes. After a very long time and three nurse's and one Doctor tyring to get an IV in he was being rehydrate and given insulin. We spent one night in intensivecare and four days at the hospital. Ben slowly began to me more like himself, though not completely. Kory and I were taught what diabetes was and how to treat it. we gave shots to oranges then to Ben. We learned about the glucose meters and how to notice highs and lows. His fingers from being tested every hour.

Hospital Bed.

Playing at the Fun center in the hospital. This picture shows the best how skinny he had become. But still doesn't do it justice.

This is the other day, him testing his blood. HE tests himself a minimum of 5 times a day. He also gives himself insulin shots with every meal and at bedtime. Again a minimum of 5 a day.

This is our diabetic supply cupboard. This is kind of empty too. There is usually a lot more.

I want to get on my soap box for a minute. There are a lot of misconceptions of Type 1 diabetes. Ben did not get this because he is over weight or eats too much sugar. Ben's pancreas does not produce insulin and will never again. Insulin is what turns carbohydrates into energy. Carbs are a vital part of every ones diet. They are found in almost everything you eat. Fruits, veggies, milk, yogurt, whole grain bread, and nuts for instance all have them and they are all very healthy for you.

Ben does not need to restrict his diet, but just like everyone else needs to eat sensible.
There is no cure (yet) for type 1. It is not reversible.

In Ben's case it was genetics that caused it. Kory's mom has had Type 1 for 40+ years so he carries the gene even if he doesn't have it. But it can happen to someone who has no family history of it.

After a year we have adjusted and now it is just our life. Ben is doing wonderful. He tests himself and after I tell him how much insulin he needs, he gives himself a shot. He is very shy about his diabetes and doesn't like to talk about it to people other than family. He still has moments of "whoa is me" but I would too. He still has mood swing when he is too high or two low but we are able to recognize them better now. He is amazing and we love him very much. Kids with diabetes are so incredible.

Bright eyed and Bushy Tailed

2010-11-16T13:50:00.002-05:00

Josh can not keep his eyes open when I take his picture. It is so annoying. Here are a few of many pictures of Josh with his eyes closed.

This last one really bums me out. He wanted to go to work like dad and brought me a shirt and tie and made me put them on him. Needless to say this is the best picture of him.

Blessing Board

2010-11-16T13:40:00.003-05:00

Years ago, while we were still living in Philly, we had a Blessing Board and every week during Family Home evening we would each write something we were thankful for. When we moved it got left in a box for almost two years, sad. So when we got our house I wanted to get it out again, but the words that had been on it would not come off, not all of them anyway. I went and bought a new dry erase board and made it a little fancier than our last one (hardly, I know alot of you could go all out and make it much better than mine.) So our tradition lives on. Also every week we write what we wrote on the board in a notebook so we will always have it and we can remember that Seth has been Thankful for green the last three weeks.

Halloween Crafts

2010-11-16T13:27:00.003-05:00

I have been really bad about updating. I have been meaning to put these up, well since I made them in the beginning of October. Well, I did loose my SD card so it was hard to up load them without it. All is well because I found it.

Now that I have a house I want to decorate for all the holidays. I got real excited for Halloween and made a few cute things. I have to brag because I usually just buy the stuff, it is usually cheaper than making it and definitely easier.

I love this wreath, It was in a Women's Day magazine and total easy to make. Everyone that saw it, said it was so cute. It is a Styrofoam wreath, black duct tape, candy corn, wide black ribbon and I used some spray lacker.

The next two are just kits that I bought at Roberts crafts. Ben and I really had a lot of fun making them. And they are super cute if I do say so myself.

Seth's Birthday!

2010-09-03T14:03:00.003-04:00

Seth is 4!

Seth is Seth! I've said it many times, but I would not change a thing about him. His birthday was last week and he wanted a skateboard. Call us crazy, but he got one! A real one and a skateboard cake.

1.Seth is a happy kid.

2.Seth is easy going.

3.Seth loves his family.

4.Seth is funny.

We love this kid.

1st grade

2010-09-03T13:42:00.003-04:00

Ben is in First grade! These are horrible pictures. He didn't want to have his picture taken.

It has been two weeks and he has really enjoyed it. It does say that it is too long, but going from half-day kindergarten to a full day of first grade, I don't really blame him. I, on the other hand have struggled with him being gong all day. This was much worse than last year. I was also very stressed out about how we are going to deal with his diabetes while he was at school. The first week I went before lunch to help. This week, the nurse has been there to help. It still is a little stressful, but I am not sick about it now. If they have any concerns they call, so I stay close to my phone around lunch time. It is exciting and sad how fast they grow.
His teacher is really nice and he is making new friends. He loves the Monkey bars and will have huge callous by the end of the year. First grade, look out here comes one great kid.

Bop- $#it

2010-08-10T18:27:00.003-04:00

Please forgive the title, it is a little crude.

What happens when you have a sweet little 20 month old? A travel size Bop-It?

And a perfectly good toliet?

A very clogged toilet and a mess.

Also a father-in-law that tried for a long time with a plunger and an auger. He finally had to take the toilet off the drain. We were not sure what was clogging the toilet until he removed it off the base. Then he said he could see a toy. He kept trying to get it out and it wasn't moving. Then he took the toilet outside and used a high power nosile to remove the bop-it.

Kids are so fun, they keep us busy and their grandpa's too. Thanks Gary.

Fun at Grandma's

2010-08-05T16:13:00.004-04:00

Playing in the Mud. They were covered in the mud. Good times. Josh was finished playing, so I got him undressed to go inside but he must have thought playing in the mud naked would be a lot more fun.

It is weird that Ben has more mud on him than Seth. I think Josh was the reason for that though.
Swinging, swinging and swinging that is what my kids love to do at Grandma's.

Taking a rest.

While we were there Seth decided he thinks it would be cool to wrestle a bear. He came up with a plan that Grandpa Dennis will catch some fish to give the bear and while the bear was eating Seth will jump out to get him. All his idea. Grandpa Dennis said he'll catch the fish then get the heck out of there. I don't blame him. I hope Seth decides against this bear wrestling thing.

Josh loves the dows (cows). He would grab our hands and say "dow, dow" so we could take him to see the cows. He also used make a cute little cow noise now he makes a very deep almost growling cow noise.

Ben loved the carnival. The super slide and the dragon roller coaster were his favorites. He also loved the pretty girls in the Parade. He would kill me if he read that, he does not like girls, he was only interested in the candy.

We're back!

2010-07-23T13:54:00.003-04:00

After almost two years I am going to be posting again. When we were living with my in-laws their computer crashed, then we used our lap top but it crashed. The computer got fixed but never worked very well after that so I just stopped posting. We finally decided that we needed a good computer so here I am.

Things are pretty much the same around here. I stay home with the boys. Kory is busy working full time and he teaches part time in the evenings. He works very hard for us.

The kids have changed, especially Josh. He went from this to...

This.

He is a ton of fun. He loves to do everything his brothers do, which for the most part is good. He loves to sing and dance. He laughs at nothing and loves to tell stories that only he can understand. But he does have a temper, he likes things his way. He makes us smile.

Seth went from this...

To this

Seth is Seth. He is very curious and always into things that he shouldn't be into. He has a great imagination. He always is telling us something that cracks us up. Very funny. He is so sweet, and loves his brothers. He is so much fun.

Ben then...

and now.Ben is such a good kid. He is always so helpful. He is his dad's son through and through. Does what he is told is really literal, if that makes sence. He is getting ready to start first grade.

He is also really strong. Last November after Ben had been really sick we found out that he has Diabetes. He has to check his blood at least four times a day and give himself insulin shots everytime he eats and before bed. He has dealt with this amazingly. He does have is moments but he is a real trooper. He is such a joy to have.

I'm excited to get back to blogging and I hope you enjoy it.

Our Home

2010-07-23T13:17:00.007-04:00

The most exciting thing in the last 19 months is we bought a house. It was built in 1973 but it is good condition. It has four bedrooms and a den that we use for a toy room. It also has two family rooms, a big laundry/ storage room. It all happened so fast that we feel very blessed to have gotten it. The front of the house. It had been empty for a while before we bought it so it needs some landscaping, which we are doing slowly. Neither Kory or I have a green thumb so it has been trail and error.

The mail was what really sealed the deal about the house. Just kidding but the boys really thought it was cool and that is why they really liked the house. I couldn't help but put a picture up.

Looking at these pictures I realize that the walls are pretty boring. But we have a toy room, I love it.

The living room upstairs. We have rearranged it a couple of time and still can't get it right.

Downstairs family room. Again nothing on the walls and we still haven't unpacked everything. These pictures don't do it justice.

Kitchen. It is kind small but has a lot of cabinet space, a cute little roll top desk and a pantry. Also you can't see it in the picture but it has a built in bread box, kind of fun.

Bummer Man

2009-02-08T22:29:00.002-05:00

The computer we have been using crashed so there hasn't and will probably not be any post for a little bit. What a bummer.

Ben is FIVE

2009-01-25T17:55:00.005-05:00

So I just found this post that never got posted. Ben's Birthday almost two years ago. Better late then never I guess. I really wanted to post it because the cake is so cool. Got it from family fun.

Going ons

2008-12-26T19:13:00.007-05:00

Man how time flies. I didn't realize how much I've missed until I started putting the pictures on the computer. December is normally a crazy month, but this is insanity.

Josh about a week old.

Josh's first bath, he was two weeks old because it took that long for his umbilical cord to fall off. Ben and Seth only cried the first time, but Josh has cried every single time. It is the worst thing that has ever happened to him.All done, everything is better nowCute boys with new blanket Grandma-Great Cox made.

My mom got a bunny

Josh's cool hair-do. The boys decorating the tree.
The boys did it all by themselves. Nice Huh?

Best Buddies

Playing in front of the snow-blower
Showing off his "new" shoes. They used to be Ben's.Seth being Seth.

My Best Guys.

Kory's Family, special.
Wow a family of Five. It is a bad picture, but the only one we have.

Ben and Seth are doing great with Josh. Ben loves to give him kisses and always says "He is sooo cute." Seth calls him Josh Buddy, it is very cute. The other day I came out of the shower and Seth was rocking the cradle and singing a song to Josh. Sweet. Josh is just the perfect fit for our family and we love having him.

Christmas

2008-12-25T20:51:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas and Hope you all did too.

Merry Christmas!!

One Year

2008-12-21T20:45:00.003-05:00

In Memory Of

Simon Michael Cox

It has been one year since we lost our Little Simon. It has not always been easy, especially this time of year. We are very greatful for the gospel in our lives and the knowledge that we will be with him again. We miss you.

Another Cox Boy

2008-11-28T22:46:00.003-05:00

Joshua James Cox

Born November 25th 2008

at 11:20 am

weighing 8lbs 7oz

22 inches long

He is healthy, and has lots of dark blond hair. We are so very happy to have him in our home and in our hearts. What a wonderful thing to be thankful for.

...Update

2008-11-28T21:49:00.005-05:00

I know it has been a long time, and I'm sure you are sick of hearing it but it is not easy to post while we are using Kory's parents computer, but it is. Here are some things we are up to.

WARNING: Bragging parent.

Ben came up to me and asked me if I knew what the word he was spelling was. I did but wanted to make sure he knew so I asked him what it was and he said doesn't it spell SPEED. Yes it does. I asked how he knew that and he said he just sounded it out. Smarty pants, but when we read and ask him to sound out a word he never wants to.

Cute brothers,pre-Josh

It has been a very nice Fall here but we did get a couple inches a snow a while back. Ben begged all morning to go out so we found our winter stuff and went out. The kids had a lot of fun.

Now, I have said this a lot but Seth is very curious, and likes to get into things.

MUD

The couch cushion. Yes he is in it.

Bad picture, but he got into the paper towel rolls. Luckily I got them put back before he unrolled some. The next day,however, he found one and did just that.

But how can you not love this guy.Halloween. Yes very late. Ben was a Police officer.

Seth a robber.

Trick or Treating.

Answered Prayers

2008-10-04T20:06:00.002-04:00

A Temple in Philadelphia. When Kory and I moved out there we were sure that is why we went there, to help Philly get a Temple. When I heard President Monson this morning announce 5 new temples, I couldn't help myself I started to cry cause I knew Philadelphia was one of those new ones. I could pictures our little Broad Street Chapel cheering and yipping and "Praising the Lord". I wish we could have been there. I am so happy for our Brothers and Sisters in the Philadelphia area. Kory and I are already planning our trip out there.

Beware A Picture EXPLOSION

2008-09-22T18:27:00.020-04:00

So after the entire summer of lame posts with no pictures, we have finally put our pictures on the computer, all 600 of them. Don't worry I'm not putting all of them on there just a few, well maybe a bit more than a few. I missed posting a lot of fun things we did this summer, I hope you enjoy.

Just hanging out. (upside down)

Playing in the sprinklers- surprising this is the first time my kids ever have done it.

Peeping Toms

Ben's first day of pre-school.
Picture's of Seth's Birthday
Seth brand new

Seth and his proud Big Brother
Seth's first Birthday
We love our little Seth. He is so full of life. Still very "curious" to put it nicely. He loves to cuddle and copycats everything Ben does, but definitely is his own person. He is a perfect fit for our family.

Seth's second Birthday
Seth's first hair cut.
During

After
Camping "out" in the backyard.

Seth only made it till 10:00

This is funny. For my family reunion/ Grandpa's 80th birthday we went a swimming pool (the one that is in The Sandlot- "hammon ball"). Well they have a huge conveyor belt type of slide where you ride on a raft type thing. The rule to go down the slide is that you are taller than the raft or you can carry to to the top without help. The raft is NOT light. Ben got it in his head that he wanted to go down the slide, so we told him the rule and he said he would do it. He headed up the stairs with his not easy task. Kory was with him and kept telling him he didn't have to keep going, but Ben would say "I'm almost there"- he said that when was at the bottom and kept going.He made to the top and took off.
Made it all the way down.and wiped out at the bottom. The raft flipped on him and he swam to the edge with it on top of him. He was safe and was more worried about a band-aid that had fallen off his finger. He did say afterwards "I think I was a little to0 little for that slide".My Family (mostly)My family with my paternal grandparents. They are so cute and I love so much. They have been married 59 years. What a great example of love and patience.

This game- the marble game is something my grandpa made and I played with when I was little, a favorite and cherished game.

That Famous Preston Night Rodeo.

There is a parade with lots of candy, a Rodeo with a champion clown, a carnival with twirling rides and greasy food. What else could you ask for? This was the first year in many that we were able to go. The kids are enjoying the parade.
The 24th of July parade in our neighborhood. We had police escorts, it was cool.

4th of July at my sister's in Colorado- out of order I know

Ben got a hair cut too. It was a mo-hawk-but is no more.

My superheroes. Thanks to my mom for making the capes, they play with them all the time.

What we did most of the summer- SWIM. It is great to have a pool in your backyard. Ben is a swimming fool. Seth is a jumping fool.

Pooped. I think I have figured an easier way to post my pictures, because as of right now it is a process, but I can not make any promises that it will be soon. Sorry for so many pictures. It is just I really think you need pictures with most posts. And we did have a fun summer and I thought I'd share.

Hair Dye

2008-08-29T14:32:00.003-04:00

So, yesterday my sister walked into the room and she said something about dying her hair. Ben responded, "Why does Rachel want dead hair?" All we could do was laugh! Very funny! :)

I still have to download Seth's birthday pictures (he turned 2 on Monday). So, I will get some pictures posted shortly.

SO....

2008-08-11T17:02:00.002-04:00

We are still here. There will be no pictures on this post either, but I promise I will get some on soon. Anyway I have nothing really great to post but some funny things Ben has said and done.

So a few months ago we were in church and old man was speaking. He just turned 90, so he is old. Anyway his talk was manly about his family history and mostly his father's. A typical old man he talked as if you know everyone he are talking about and gives way more detail then needed. His talk lasted the whole sacrament meeting. Right before he ended I looked over at Ben, and he was stuffing paper in his ears, curious I asked him what he was doing. He whined "I just don't want to listen anymore".

The other day we were driving and Ben asked my in a real somber voice "Do you know what some people believe?"
"No I don't"
"Some people believe superheros are extinct. But I don't, they are still alive"
He was very broken hearted by the fact that not everyone believes in Superheros.

Four for Four

2008-07-08T14:47:00.003-04:00

OR zero for four depending on how you look at it. We are having another boy!! I'm never going to get a girl. Oh well at least I have cute boys. I just have to get used to dirt, bugs, snakes, and toads. Stinky boys who don't want to get washed and don't care if their clothes match. I'll become very proud of all the body noises they can make and maybe I can even beat them in a belching contest(ya right). Good thing for me I love sports, at least watching them. The only problem is gross uniforms and constant fear of injuries. We might just give it one more shot. But then again it would be another boy. The odds are not in our favor.

P.S. Baby is healthy which is a great blessing and really all that matters. Also if you have any good boy names send them our way, we are probably going to be using all of them trying to get a girl.

Summer pictures to come...

New Camera

2008-06-18T17:52:00.006-04:00

For Father's day (Thanks for being such a great Father, Kory) Kory got a new camera-it is also my birthday present and his birthday present. Here are a few, maybe more than a few, pictures he taken. We went to a BBQ at the Coombs'. It is a kid wonderland they have a trampoline, a swing set, chicken, horses, a fire pit the goat, however, is the neighbors. It was a lot of fun and great to see them and friends from Preston High.

He is saying "cheese" if you can't tell.

Swimming at our house. The kids love the pool.

There will be more "practice pictures" until we are good at using our camra.

What to answer

2008-06-18T17:37:00.002-04:00

I don't want any pity, I just really need to get something off my chest.
When people ask how many kids I have I stumble and am not sure what to say. Three is the correct answer and expecting my forth. But if I tell people I have three and they only see two there are questions. Not that I am opposed to tell them about Simon what I am opposed to is the pitiful looks that come across peoples faces or them trying to come up with something to say or the apologises. Yes it is sad and sometimes it still hurts. But I know that I will be with Simon again. I know that he was so perfect he only came to earth to get a body. He is our little angel watching over us. When I tell people I have two, it hurts, I feel like I'm lying. I held Simon just like I held Ben and Seth when they were born. I saw all ten toes and all ten fingers. He is my baby whether or not he is still here. I don't know how to answer a question that is so simple for most people. How many kids do you have?

STOMP

2008-06-10T16:47:00.002-04:00

Saturday night Kory and I went to see STOMP. It was very cool. It amazes me how they make cool sounds using everyday items, like push brooms, match boxes, basketball, plastic bags, straw and cup, trash cans, buckets, pipes, their hands, legs, feet and bodies and yes even the kitchen sink. Very cool. I highly recommend seeing it. Now maybe I won't be so annoyed when Ben and Seth start banging and drumming on things someday they may make a career out of it.

Pictures

2008-06-04T13:30:00.002-04:00

Here are the pictures I was talking about. The first two are of our last day on the road. Seth fell asleep with a giant goldfish graham cracker in his mouth. The boys were just being silly in the other.
Ben and his brand new bike. He loves to ride it. He rides it to the park while I push Seth in the stroller. Funny story, the first time we went to the park he wanted to take his bike but didn't want to ride it there. I told him he would have to walk it because I wasn't going to, he said that he would. Well we didn't even make it two houses past ours when he started getting real mad because the pedals kept hitting his legs, and it hurt. I told him to ride it then, he said he couldn't ride it that far. Well I said either he rides it we take it back, so he hops on crying that it is too hard and too far. He was riding it really well and was still crying "I can't do it". He did that for about 5 minutes. I really wish that I had my video camera it was pretty funny.

Yes we are still here

2008-06-03T15:35:00.004-04:00

Things here are going well. Ben and Seth are having lots of fun. They are enjoying the backyard and especially the pool. Ben got a new bike and is riding like a pro, without training wheels. He wants to go swimming everyday and loves to snorkel in the pool. He goes from one end to the other with the snorkel on. Seth is still into everything. He is talking a lot, my favorite is we he wants up he says "I want high". Pretty cute. Kory is working really hard and loves his job. I'm sorry I'm not posting picture, we are using Kory's parents computer and just haven't downloaded them on there yet. I know this is a little lame but I just wanted everyone to know we are still around.

Oh!! I'm 14 weeks and 5 days pregnant. Baby number 4 is due November 27th. If you have seen me lately you would have known, I'm huge already. I, amazingly, am feeling okay. Tired and nauseous but am not throwing up near as much as with the other three. Maybe this means it is a girl, cross your fingers. I doubt it though, I think I got pregnant really fast after Simon and my hormone levels never were back to normal. I think I'm destine to have all boys.

Were Here!!!

2008-05-02T18:25:00.003-04:00

We got to Utah safe and sound on Wednesday. The kids were great, awesome, fantastic. We are settling in and enjoying having family and friends close. It snowed all day yesterday but nothing stuck. Spring in the rockies! We miss Philly and all our friends. We want to thank everyone who helped us move, by loading the pod, babysitting and letting us stay at their places. It was very appreciated. Stayed tuned for our adventures out west.

Days 3 and 4 - Chicago to Nebraska

2008-04-28T22:44:00.009-04:00

Day 3:

We spent the day in Chicago. What a fun city! We first headed up to the top of Chicagoland by going to the Sears Tower. Ben and Seth absolutely loved it. It has some great views!

The view from the bottom of the Sears Tower... and from the top.

For all of Kory's Prudential friends...the middle building on the second picture is the Prudential building in Chicago.

After the visit to the Sears tower we had to try some famous Chicago Pizza. It was delicious!

We then headed over to the Miracle Mile and Grant Park. Our favorite part was the Cloud Sculpture in Millenium Park. The sculpture was very cool!

We also visited Wrigley Field. Although we could not go in (The Cubs were not in town), it was still neat to see such a staple of baseball history.

Day 4:
We were on the road again! What a fun day. We went through Illinois, Iowa, and stopped in Kearney, Nebraska. All day...driving. Although, I do have to say... once again, our boys were GREAT! I can't believe how well they have done this entire trip. One thing of note...it was cold pretty much all along the way. We got snowed on! We tried to get a picture of it - Yes! That is snow.

Day 2 - To the Windy City

2008-04-26T23:42:00.002-04:00

On the road again.... All I can say is that Ben and Seth have been so good throughout this whole trip. They were so cute together (as shown below - watching a movie). We hit 4 different states today... and the boys were good through all of them. We started in PA, went through Ohio and Indiana, and then landed in Chicago, Illinois.

Chicago definitely deserved its moniker - "The Windy City" for a reason today. It was windy - and COLD! We went to another baseball game today. It was a lot of fun to see the White Sox and Orioles play...but it was COLD! I think all of us were a little COLD! Did I mention it was COLD!?

US Cellular Field - The home of the White Sox.

Ben - sporting his new White Sox hat.

Our family in front of the Chicago skyline. (We couldn't get a good picture with all of us looking at the camera - Ben refused to get his picture taken).

Tomorrow: A day in Chicago....

Good bye Philly :(

2008-04-25T22:47:00.003-04:00

Today we left our home in Philadelphia to embark on a new adventure out west. It was sad to leave our many friends - our Philly family. Ben said many times: "I'm gonna miss Piladelpia!" he at one point even started to cry. It was so sad. We will always have a place in our heart for the City of Brotherly Love. We will truly miss it there. We hope to come and visit soon!

On our travels west we stopped in Pittsburgh. We made it to a Pirates - Phillies game at PNC Park. GO PHILS! It was so much fun. It is such a beautiful stadium, and the boys had a blast. Seth was so cute that the camera man came over and got a shot of him for the big screen in front of the whole crowd.

Ben on the Roberto Clemente Bridge.

Seth just having a good time at the game.

PNC Park from the Roberto Clemente Bridge.

Tomorrow, we are headed to Chicago....

To Shower or Not to Shower

2008-04-04T10:30:00.003-04:00

As a mother you do what you have to do, right? So if that means turning on PBS and taking a shower to get a clean and fresh you do it. Lately I just don't think it is working out so well. I come out of the shower to find Seth on the computer desk throwing things off of it. Or the T.V. turned up FULL BLAST. Or the refridgerater door wide open. Well this is what I came out of the shower to this morning. My couch cushion open and stuffing everywhere. I guess it could have been worse most of it was still in the cushion. So what is a mom to do? I am NOT a morning person so waking up to shower before Kory leaves(at 7:00) is out if the question. Waiting until nap time may work but really who wants to interupt the middle of the day with a shower, you would have to get ready twice, possibly two outfits or stay in your jammies until 2:00. I'm just not sure that is the best idea. Then there is shower after the kids are in bed and you are free not to worry. I have done this, but I usually have to re-wet my hair the next morning and sometimes just don't feel that refreshed all day. Or give up showers all together. I'm not sure how Kory or the rest of the world would feel about that. So for now a quick shower in the morning and a mess to clean up when I get out. What's a mom to do?

D.C. Fun

2008-04-01T14:42:00.002-04:00

We went to D.C. one last time this weekend:( It makes us sad that that is not where we ended up. But we are sure lucky that we lived so close for almost three years.
We started at the temple. I'm real mad I didn't take pictures. The kids were starving by the time we had finished so we needed food not pictures. So we drove to a metro station parked and rode into the city.(thanks Jordan for your help and directions) Had some hot dogs from street vendor, not my first choice but we were all too hungry to wait. We have been to D.C. a bunch of times but never saw any of the memorials or monuments so that is what this trip was for. PLUS the cherry blossom were in bloom. They were beautiful. It was very busy there because of it though.
We had a lot of fun-well at least Kory and I did, on the way home Ben said he would have rather watched his kid shows. Oh brother!

Beautiful Cherry Blossoms

Washington Monument
Seth and Ab
Family with no Ben, he didn't want his picture taken

Field Trip Fun

2008-03-28T13:56:00.004-04:00

Ben had a field trip to The Academy of Natural History Museum, and he loved it.

We saw Dinosaurs.We dug for fossils

Got eaten up
Went for a ride on a Tortise
Saw giant hissing cockroaches,An amazing bird charmer. The bird was in heaven.
And a skunk in a log! Yes it was real and no it didn't stink.

Outside Fun

2008-03-28T12:14:00.003-04:00

I have been waiting for spring since Thanksgiving so when it nice, we are outside.Up in the tree
Our little tree hugger
Ben with no training wheels. He still needs some practice starting on his own.

Easter Visitors

2008-03-28T11:44:00.007-04:00

My cousin Anni and her husband came for Easter. And we had fun and it was great to see them. Here are a few pictures of our weekend, although none of them have anything to do with Easter.

Anni and Cody

Ben and Kory
Seth and Jill

Ben's funny face

Ben snuck into this picture

Color us Happy

2008-03-18T19:01:00.006-04:00

Before we leave the East we wanted to make sure we see as much as we can. So Saturday we went to The Crayola Factory in Easton PA. We had a lot of fun and is it reasonably priced considering how expiensive everything is out here. Although we didn't see the actual crayons being made it was still a blast. Ben making a glacier out of paper.
They have the Canal Musuem on the 3rd floor. I know what you are thinking a canal museum? but it was very neat and geared towards kids. You will notice Ben's shirt is wet in the rest of the pictures.
Model Magic was awesome. I never even heard of it before. It is less messy then playdoh. You can put in a container and save it or leave it out to make a little model. It comes in colors or you can buy white and color it with a marker and make it the color you want.

Ben painting with the melted crayons. I just wish they would have given me a piece to color with too. We made a catapiller.
Finished Catapiller

They had an area for sidewalk chalk that was really neat. Ben didn't care for it that much.
This for sure was the biggest hit for the kids. They play music and the kids were dancing around in front of a camera or something then it put a psycadelic image of them on the screen.Ben made a puppet and named him Dumbo.
The world's largest Crayon.
There was also water colors that I didn't a picture of and a color wonder station. They had the 1,000,000,000 crayon in Royal Blue on Display and a sweater Mr. Rodgers wore when he molded it. I have a soft spot for Mr. Rodgers so I thought that was cool. We came home with three markers and three boxes of crayons (four in a box) and three things of Model Magic. Although my suggestion to anyone that goes is to save your tokens for the markers to use for the Model Magic.

Ben Burrito Anyone?

2008-03-18T14:03:00.002-04:00

Or would you prefer a Seth Burrito?
How about a combination platter?
Do remember doing that when you were little?

Here is another tasty treat from our house, Seth Stew.

Oh Seth

2008-03-05T16:06:00.003-05:00

We have a lot of "Oh Seth" moments at our house. This was the latest he jumped in to tub after I had gotten out. There wasn't much water but enough for me to have put new jammys on him.

More Wedding Pictures

2008-03-05T10:18:00.004-05:00

My Aunt sent me some pictures of the Wedding (actually the lunch). Thanks Steph. My sister is sending me more so there might be more postings about our trip

My oldest sister Millie her husband Andy their kids Tate and Ellie.

I think they forgot to smile.
Betsy her kids Kadin and Kyler and her Husband Blair.
Tia, Jared and Raegan
The baby of the family Candace and her boyfriend Aaron
The Happy Couple Mom(Karen) and Dennis

Our Trip

2008-02-25T10:59:00.005-05:00

*warning-long and boring post*
We had a fun trip to Idaho and Utah. We got there on Tuesday and hung out with my mom. Wednesday it snowed all day. we were able to dedicate Simon's grave. Kory's dad did a wonderful job. Because of the snow we stayed in the rest of the time. Thursday , Valentine's Day, the big day, we all got up and to get ready. My mom got ready real fast and she and Dennis left for the Temple. Kory and I were running late and I was suppose to be my mom's escort in the temple. We get the kids loaded in the car and get stuck in my mom's drive way after having to push teh car out we head to my sisters house. We get STUCK AGAIN in a 3 foot snow drift on her road. Blair (my brother-in-law) was able to tow us out. We hurry and drop the kids off and head down to Logan. We made it just in time for me to say hi to my mom and send her off. The ceremony was great and my mom and Dennis looked so happy. With all the confusion of the morning I forgot my camera so no pictures of the happy couple. On Friday we were got to hang out with my new step family. Dennis rented snow mobiles and grabbed our sleds and hit the hills, we had a lot of fun.There was about three feet of snow on the ground. Ben was a maniac, going up and down the hill I think he was in heaven. Saturday we went to my nephew's basketball game and just hung out until it was time to head to Salt Lake. Monday we had friends over for soup it was so much. I'm so dumb and forgot to take any pictures. Duh. While we there Kory was able to meet with some people and he has a job with the UPEA-his old job. His old boss loves him and is willing to do anything to get him back. Problem is she has a strick budget so pay is guestionable. It is better than nothing. Two more months and we'll be back for good.

The Boys

2008-02-07T19:22:00.001-05:00

Just a few cute pictures.

Child Proofing

2008-02-07T19:06:00.000-05:00

Seth is such a handful. He is into everything and gets so upset when we stop him or he gets in trouble. He recovers very fast and he turns right around to get into whatever he wants whether he is allowed or not. So for the last two months he has been using our chairs to get into higher things, pushing them where ever he wanted. So far our child proofing method was to just put everything higher. He broke or ruined many things doing this. Well a couple of days ago Kory said "lets see what happens if we turn the chairs over". Well it worked, he hasn't been able to get up into anything. Why didn't we think of it sooner. I know a really silly thing to post but if it helps someone else then I've done some good in the world. By the way we push them under the table so no one falls on the protuding legs.

Ben is Four

2008-01-28T14:14:00.000-05:00

It is hard to believe that Ben is four, but he is and we love him so much.

Here is Ben in a nutshell,

Funny

A great big brother

Always willing to share

Loves to sing

Stubborn

Hates long sleeves and pants

Loves games

Picky

Brave

Loves hugs and Kisses

His present, a V-smile.

Making a wish.

Thank You

2008-01-28T13:59:00.000-05:00

We just want to say thank you to everyone. We are truely greatful for all your thoughts and prayers. We are also greatful for our Heavenly Father's plan, we know that we will be together with our perfect little Simon again. Than you again.

Announcement

2007-12-22T13:04:00.000-05:00

The Cox Family announces the Birth and Death of

Simon Michael Cox

On December 21, 2007.

Christmas Bells!

2007-12-13T18:30:00.000-05:00

This is Ben's preschool class singing. Ben sure loves to sing!

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow

2007-12-05T19:31:00.001-05:00

We got our first snow today. It snowed all day but still wasn't very much. It sure was enough for Ben and Seth to enjoy it. I wasn't sure how Seth would react, but he had a lot of fun. His nose and cheeks were bright red, cute. Ben loved it but really wants to make a snow man. Hopefully next time we will get enough snow for that and maybe a little sledding down our hill right outside our door.

Here's a fun little Christmas Game That We Liked!

2007-12-01T16:55:00.003-05:00

Christmas Games

2007-11-24T18:06:00.001-05:00

2007-11-24T18:02:00.001-05:00

Baby Boy

2007-11-23T19:36:00.000-05:00

I'm sure many of you are curious to why it has taken over a week to annouce that baby number three is a boy. Well, it is because the ultrasound didn't go as smoothly as hoped. I went in last Thursday and there was only one ultrasound tech and no doctor there. The tech said that the baby's stomach was small and that she wasn't able to get a good reading of the heart. So I left unable to talk to the doctor and was disappointed for another boy and wondering why the baby's stomach was small. I didn't get home until about 6:00 that night after running errands and picking up Kory. There were messages from the ATU and my OB-GYN to call concerning my ultrasound. I was panicked that something was wrong and it was too late to call and find out what it was. So, I called first thing Friday morning and my doctor wasn't in and neither was the nurse. I called the ATU and they told me that I needed to go in and have a Fetal echocardiogram. That was all she could tell me. I panicked once again and was unable to get an answer about what was going on. I scheduled my appointment and was a wreck the rest of the weekend.
I called first thing Moday morning and wasn't able to talk to my doctor again, but the nurse just told me that they were couldn't get a good picture of the heart. I asked if they had seen anything wrong and they told me no just needed to get a better picture.
Well, today I had the fetal echo cardiogram and again it didn't go as well as we hoped. The baby has a heart defect called Truncus Arteriosus. It is when the pulmonary artery (the artery that takes the blood to the lungs to get oxygen) and aortic valve(the valve that takes the oxygenated blood to rest of the body) are combined into one. So the oxygenated and the deoxygenated blood mix. Within 48 hours of being born, he is going to have to have open heart surgery to form two valves. This is not a perminate fix, he will have to have a couple more surgeries during his life to put in a new tube as he outgrows the one in him. We are hoping that everything works out, but feel that we are lucky to have one of the best childrens hospitals in the country. Please just keep us in your prayers.

New York and some R&R

2007-11-23T18:42:00.000-05:00

On the 14th a group of us were able to make a trip up to New York City and go to a taping of the Rachael Ray show. It was not really what I expected. We were there for five hours but the studio was cute and Rachael Ray seemed friendly enough. We got her new cook book Just In Time, I can't wait to try some of the recipes. They didn't tell us exactly when the show will air but it will be on sometime before Christmas and the guest will be Susan Lucci (a little disappointing) so just keep your eye open for that show and me. Thank you Jamie for getting getting this al together. I feel pretty lucky to live so close to the great city of New York.

Blankie Boys

2007-11-07T14:08:00.001-05:00

Kory's Grandma a.k.a. Grandma-Great makes treco blankets for all the babies born in the family and everyone loves them. Kory still has his. When left on his mission he thought it would be a little immature to have a blankie but he couldn't live with out it and had his parents send it to him. He did however say he would not sleep with it when he got married but some of his adult cousins still sleep with theirs. Well, Ben loves his and has to have to sleep. We take it anytime we go on a overnight trip. And a lot of days I'll find him playing something or other with it. Seth is starting to get attached to his now. It is fun. Ben was playing with Seth's earlier today and Seth had a big fit, it is his and Ben can't touch it. I just wanted to say Thanks to Grandma-Great for the fantastic blankets. They are something my boys will always treasure.

Halloween

2007-11-03T18:29:00.000-04:00

Cute little Peter Pans.I didn't get very good pictures they were being a little difficult. But we had fun and a busy Halloween. We went to a really terrific ward party. Ben had a halloween party at school.We went to a friends house for a great halloween party/play group and to top it all off got lots and lots candy.Happy Halloween.

Bad Blogger

2007-10-29T14:58:00.000-04:00

I am a bad blogger. I have missed posting Ben's first field trip, Our anniversary, Kory's 30th birthday, our Halloween FHE and Seth new trick-summer salts. I have all the best intentions, but never seem to get it done I think because I'm not feeling well but I'm sure you are sick of that excuse. So here they are in a nut shell.

Ben had a field trip to a pumpkin patch. We went on a hay ride, picked a pumkin, and got drenched. It was a lot of fun.

Kory and I celebrated our 6th anniversary and we still love each other, I think more.

Kory turned 30! Yes he is 30! We had cake and ice cream. Watch out for the fire hazard!

We had a fun FHE, we painted pumpkin. Ben's is a mummy, mine a girl/witch and Kory's was a Dracula, Seth just had to watch.

Well that is it. Seth is doing summer salts now it is pretty funny I have it on video but no pictures. Hopefully I'll get our Halloween pictures posted before Thanksgiving.

I've been Tagged

2007-10-23T14:23:00.000-04:00

For those of you who don't know how this works, here are the rules:
A: Each player lists 6 facts/habits about themselves.
B: At the end of the post, the player then tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog for these rules.
1. I am a scatter brain, a trait I inherited from my mother. I swear sometimes I would lose my head if it wasn't attached to my body. It isn't horrible, just always forget where I put things and always forget to remeber things-if that makes sence. I make lists and write everything down, now if I can remember where I put it.
2. I am shy. I never go out of my way to talk to people, sometimes even people I know. I get nervous and repeat myself a lot when around people.
3. I am sick and tired of being sick and tired. My miracle pills are not working there magic anymore. I still am throwing up most mornings and by noon all I want to do is just crawl in bed. I fell like I'm neglecting my family and house work. But everyone keeps telling me it is a girl so maybe it will be worth it.(not that a boy wouldn't be)
4.I would love to write childrens books I have a couple in my head I just need to put them down and find someone who can draw.
5.I love taking long -hot showers, they are so relaxing.
6. I love my family. I married the greatest guy, we were for sure meant for each other his strengths are my weakness and viesa versa and he always helpful and a fantastic dad. Ben makes me proud every day that I am his mom he is so kind and generous. Seth lights me up even when I'm feeling horrible just by flashing his big smile. And I've been able to feel number three move and it gets me excited to see what it will be like.I am so blessed.

I've tagged Michelle, Katie, Holly, Millie, Ashlee, Staci

You're so kind

2007-10-10T15:27:00.000-04:00

The other night we were eating dinner and I had made oven fries, they were not good at all. They weren't very crisp and the skin was very thick and had a strong potato skin flavor. So I said "these potatoes aren't very good". Ben looked right at me and said "that is because you made them". It was true I did make them and so I guess it was my fault they were not very good. Kids will be kids.

Pre-school Boy

2007-09-26T14:20:00.000-04:00

Ben started pre-school yesterday and loved it. He has been so excited to start. He came home and told me all about it and when Kory came home, made sure he told him everything. He is going to do great and we are so proud of him. walking in the door
posing on his first day-yes he needs a hair cut

Ben and Miss Jamie, she is a great teacher

Catch Up

2007-09-21T20:10:00.000-04:00

Well I thought I better do a little catching up now that the word is out and I'm actually feeling good tonight. Kory is still busy putting in applications and has gotten an interview. It is with prudential, the company he is currently working for. We are hoping it works out because it will be a nice promotion. It is a really good company to work for, great benefits and he really enjoys the people. At this point we are ready for any job.

I feel horrible for missing Seth's birthday it was August 25th (yes almost a month ago) excuses excuses but I really haven't been feeling good at all. It was fun we went to the mall to ride the carousel although I think Ben had more fun. We came home and had make your pizza with the Coombs (we wanted to have them over one more time before they left).

If you know Seth you know he eats dirt every time we go outside- so hence the dirt cake. He liked it, although I was wishing it would get him to stop eating the real dirt.

Anyway I just can't believe he is a year(plus). It really just seems like yesterday I was throwing up, oh wait I was, but with him. He is such a great blessing in our lives. His personality is already so strong he is very mischievous but real sensitive when he gets in trouble. He loves to tease us all, especially Ben and has a temper like you wouldn't believe. We love this little guy and can't wait to watch him grow.

A while ago we had Family Home Evening and we made the Recipe for Reverence. It was our best FHE ever. Ben was very involved not only by adding ingredients but he answered all our questions and gave ideas. He was eager to learn all the ingredients to be reverent. You really should try it and if you do not have it let me know and I will get you a copy.

Enjoying the finished product.
Now you all know what I've been up to. Being sick. I am really frustrated, my house is a mess, I feel like I'm negecting my kids and husband, and all I ever want to do is sleep. I'm not sure if this time around is actually worse or that it was so unexpected that I am not dealing with it very well. Either way I'm hoping that I will get over it soon. I'm sorry to be a whiner. Tell next time.

?!?!?!?!?!?!

2007-09-16T20:28:00.000-04:00

If you haven't noticed it has been a while since I have posted anything well here is the reason...

Surprise Surprise a baby's on the way

April 8th is the day.

Wait that can't be right

I have an IUD in tight

Dr. Says they only work 99 percent

abstinence is the sure way to prevent.

The shock and surprise are wearing out

I am pregnant without a doubt

Morning sickness is really bad

throwing up makes me sad

No energy and headaches are a pain

Heartburn and backaches I'm sure to gain

I'm not sure I'm ready for three

Heavenly Father must Disagree

A little blessing and a bundle of Joy

I sure hope it's not another Boy.

This ultrasound was at 6 weeks.

Help I'm Stuck

2007-08-06T10:56:00.000-04:00

Now that I have regained my composure I can laugh about what happened to me this morning. I had only been up maybe a half an hour when nature called so I go into the bathroom and shut the door behind me. I don't like an audience while I go pee. Seth was ready crying at the door by the time I was done. I go to open the door and it is stuck. I twist and turn the handle to no avail. It would not budge. Ben figured I was stuck and came to the door to see if he c0uld open it from the other side, he was unable. Well if he couldn't open it he would go watch a little T.V. Meanwhile Seth is still screaming at the door. I started to panic I was seriously stuck and the only person that could help me would rather watch Clifford. I told Ben he really needed to open the front door and go to the neighbors and get help. He said he can't open the door, although he has done it before- dang those child safety knobs. I was frantic I started banging on the walls and ceiling screaming at the top of my lungs "I'M STUCK IN MY BATHROOM! I'M STUCK IN MY BATHROOM" . The whole time praying that I would be able to get out. I told Ben to get the phone still banging on the walls. I tell Ben to press 3 press 3 again press 1 press the 2 hit the 2 again hit 2 one more time press the 4 and now hit the gray button in the middle. I started praying Ben would be able to figure it out and that Cathie would answer her phone when I heard a sweetest voice I ever heard asking if I was alright and that she can't get to door unstuck. Then she asked if I had a screw driver. Seth still was crying. She was my neighbor from upstairs whom I had woken up with all the screaming and banging. She couldn't find our screw diver and ran upstairs to get hers. She brought her boyfriend and a screw diver back down and was able to rescue me. Thank goodness. I am however a little embarrassed my a apartment was a wreck and bathroom in a good need of a scrub and me stuck in the bathroom in my garment top. Seth wouldn't let me set him down for about an hour, he seemed to more traumatized than I was but it did take me almost as long as him to calm down. I now have a nice blister on may hand from trying so hard to open the door. Anyway I'm out and safe that's all that matters.

Ouch!

2007-07-30T10:11:00.000-04:00

Not His first and won't be his last but it sure is the ugliest ouchy he has gotten so far.

We're Where?

2007-07-30T09:55:00.000-04:00

Ben lately has really liked Benjamin Franklin. Maybe because they share the same name or maybe just because we are here in Philadelphia. Well the other day we had this conversation

Ben- Our Benjamin Franklin is dead
Me- Yes he is, he has been gone along time but he is in heaven.
Ben- He is in Heaven with Heavenly Father and Jesus and we are downstairs.
Me- We're where?
Ben- We are downstairs from heaven.
Needless to say I was laughing pretty hard and Ben wasn't even sure why.

The Beach - I mean the Shore

2007-07-22T19:13:00.000-04:00

We finally made it to the Beach. I can't belive it took us so long. We had a ton of fun. I told Kory we need to move somewhere with a beach. I'm not sure if he so keen on the idea.

I can't believe how many people were there. I never have seen anything like it.

Ben took to the water like a fish but I didn't expect anything less from him. He is a water kid.

All Seth did was eat the sand. I don't know how my mom took my little sister to the beach, maybe Candace was more mellow than Seth.

A jelly fish washed up on shore.
After we were done with the beach we walked along the boardwalk and stop at one of the many arcades. We also got boardwalk fries and funel cake. Yummy.

Crystal Cave

2007-07-11T09:36:00.001-04:00

We went to Crystal Cave last weekend while Kory's sister Rachel is visiting us. We had a lot of fun. It felt really good to go into the cool cave on a hot day.

You can tell Seth was thrilled.

Ben was being a pill and wouldn't let us take his picture but Kory was able to sneak this one.

Funny Kid

2007-07-05T19:11:00.001-04:00

The other night we were eating corn on the cob, when Ben said " I think my teeth like the food too." It took me a second to realize what he was talking about, the corn was stuck in his teeth. He thought that his teeth were eating too and that is why it was in between them. Funny kid.

Fourth of July

2007-07-04T20:10:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th of July. We went a parade in the morning it was a lot of fun. The parade was mostly fire trucks there was at least 30 of them. Ben had fun and got lots of candy, it was good candy too-no salt water taffy. Rachel -Kory's sister- is visiting us for a couple of weeks.

We had a last minute BBQ in our courtyard with some friends. It was raining, so we got out our unbrellas. Nothing can stop us from having fun, even the rain.

Ben Keeping dry. Too bad his face is dirty.

Seth playing the mud. You can't tell how dirty he is.

Seth

2007-06-26T12:35:00.001-04:00

Seth is great. But he sure is trouble I can't take my eye off of him for a second without him getting into something. His two favorite things to get into are the trash and the toilet. Gross. He has a a sixth sense for when the bathroom door is open. He just is into everything. He is starting to take his first steps and will be walking in a week or so. He loves to copy whatever Ben is doing, it is pretty funny when he tackles me just like Ben did. He is a mama's boy but it lets me know I'm needed. He is a lot of fun.

Ben

2007-06-26T09:40:00.000-04:00

Ben is a character. He loves to talk like a robot these days. And can be a chatter box, bouncing from one subject to another without taking a breathe. He is busy taking swimming lessons and loves it, he has NO FEAR it is a little scary he'll just jump in with no one there to catch and with no floaters on. He is also playing T-ball and looks forward to it every Saturday, but I think he likes playing with the other kids rather then actually playing. He has a couples weeks left of our little joy school, he is always really excited to go and loves to learn, not so eager to share what he has learned. He is a great big brother a little rough but always willing to help and show Seth how something is done. HE is a great light in our family.

Kory and Jill

2007-06-26T09:35:00.000-04:00

Kory is done with school. Yesturday was his first day of not having school, it was great to have him home. We were able to sit down for dinner at the table as a family for the first time(besides Sundays) as a family. Ben asked Kory "How was your day?" It was pretty cute. Then we played outside and Candyland and Kory put Ben to sleep. Jill is just so relived to not be a single parent anymore. She will be looking for a part time job to make a little extra money.

Hip-Hip Hurray

2007-06-21T08:15:00.000-04:00

Kory is done with school. He is taking his last class tonight. We are very excited to be finished. Although we are still not sure what will come next for us we are looking forward to finding out.