LIFE WITH THE BLANCHARDS

{Canning}

2010-09-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Kelli and Kelcy made their way up to my house so Kelli and I could do some canning. Neither of us have ever done it before but have wanted to get into it. The recipe we used is from Paul's grandmother and is a family favorite. It's just a vegetable soup but oh so good! Even though it was our first time we were successful and all the cans did seal! Yesterday, we also were on KSL and bought almost three hundred more canning jars for a $100 bucks! So with that said we definitely are going to do A LOT more of this. I have to admit I was scared to do it because when I told my dad that I was going to be canning he said,"You better wait until your sister can help you". I think he must have thought I was going to blow up the house. After our first batch was done pressurizing I was really nervous to take off the lid with fear of blowing up the house. Kelli just laughed at me. Instead of just doing it herself she thought it was funnier to watch me freak out a little. Love ya sis. Kelcy was awesome and made Layla this tutu. Layla loves it and says she needs to wear it! It was a great day and I loved being able to hang out with my sister and my fabulous niece.

Here is the recipe for the vegetable soup we canned:

1/2 bushel tomatoes(6-7 quarts)- cut in at least four pieces

1 bunch celery - cup up

2 large green peppers - cut up

2 1/2 large onions - cut into small pieces

1/4-1/2 bunch parsely cut

15-20 large carrots cut thin and

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup salt

Pre-cook carrots first then add all vegetables, salt and sugar. Bring to a boil and put into bottles to prepare for pressuring.

Pressure 22 minutes at 10 lbs.

When you are ready to eat the soup we have always browned up some ground beef and added it to the soup with some pepper.
* Kelli and I added another
onion and green pepper.*

{San Diego}

2010-09-26T10:40:00.001-07:00

Almost a month ago we went to San Diego. Paul was born there and has been itching to get back for a long time, finallly we went! We were able to stay with Paul's family for a few days where Layla got to meet new cousins. Our little family hit up the San Diego Zoo and also the beach. It was a blast we can't wait to go again next year.

Halloween!

2009-11-02T08:14:00.000-08:00

Layla's candy
Redneck, Rocker chick, House Wife of the Year

Openeing pumpkin ball with prizes

Before going to Grandma and Grandpa's

Super Rocker girl!

This year was Layla's first year of really getting to enjoy Halloween. We first started off the night with a little party at Paul's parents house. It was awesome to see everyone dressed up. Dave and Ramona gave out prizes for best costume. Paul won third place and got a $15 gift card to Star Bucks. After the party we headed to our house. Paul and Layla went Trick or Treating together and I stayed home to give out candy. According to Paul Layla had such a great time. He said she loved knocking on the doors. She would get sad if people just put candy on the doorstep because she didn't get to knock. I think those two were gone for about an 1 1/2 hours. She was a trooper and walked to all the houses. And boy did she come home with a nice big bag of candy! It was a fun year for Halloween. We can't wait for next year!

{Haircut}

2009-09-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

Layla got her first hair cut ever today! Kami did such an awesome job at making it look fabulous. Layla held pretty still for the most part. She did want to turn and see what she was doing, but what kid doesn't?

{Pretty}

2009-09-02T14:04:00.000-07:00

I guess I have not done a very good job at keeping my make-up away from Layla. I was cleaning up the house and she comes over and says, "Pretty"! Repeating it over and over. She keeps me on my toes, but there are some of those times where she is just too quick!

{Picture worth a laugh}

2009-08-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

{Randon in August}

2009-08-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

My momma came for a quick last minute visit to Utah last week. It was so fun to get to spend time with her even though it was short. It always makes me miss her more when she leaves. If you don't know, my mom and dad still live in South Dakota. They can't travel as much because they are taking care of my Grandma Lueck. So it is a awesome treat when they do come! Mom brought freshly pick corn from the farm. We had enough corn that we were able to freeze about 10 bags!! Fresh frozen corn is the BEST! Thanks mom for all the eating out you treated us to and of course the shopping! Love you lots :)

These other photos I just wanted to post. They are from Bear Lake in July. We got lucky and they turned out super cute. I think they are frame worthy. In the middle photo Layla doesn't have a black eye....she just got a hold of my mascara. She did a pretty good job applying it and the fact that she is only 20 mo.

{Bear Lake '09}

2009-07-08T18:18:00.000-07:00

This was Layla's first trip to Bear Lake where she could actually enjoy all the fun stuff. She is a little waterbug. I think she could stay in the water and sun all day long if we would let her. She loves to splash around and dig in the sand and just people watch. I'm so glad that she enjoyed the boat so much. I wasn't sure that she would like it, but she always proves me wrong and just had a blast...especially on the tube. She would clap and wave at me from the water....its was just too cute! She is afraid of almost nothing. We can't wait to go back and have lots more fun! Thanks everyone who was there for making it a great time.

{ The Hoogle Zoo}

2009-06-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

Layla had so much fun at the zoo. She screamed with joy the whole time. She also called all the animals "doggie". We will definitely go back soon!

{Glitter Toe Party}

2009-05-06T15:53:00.000-07:00

When: Saturday May 9th at 2:30p

Where: Tricia T's house 1842 E 1700 S, SLC

How much: Adults $10

Kids $ 7

If you can't make the party call me up and we can do one with you and your friends.

Call or text 801-471-9051

P.S. If you don't know what they are call me.

HILARIOUS!!!

2009-05-04T21:27:00.000-07:00

Oh look a baby blessing! Would you say we had a plethora of baby blessings? (obscure 3 amigos reference!)

This last month has been packed full of baby blessings in Paul's family. This last Sunday we had two back-to-back and Layla barely made it. We left Cyndi's (Paul's sister) house after the last one and it didnt take more than a few minutes for Layla to "crash" (understatement!). We decided to have some fun and see just how tired she was. This video was the result...ENJOY!!!

Did I mention we have the funniest little girl ever? This video below was later that evening. Warning: This is the result of way too many Whoppers (Malt candy not Burger King!).

{Toilets and Cleaning}

2009-04-30T12:53:00.000-07:00

Layla's new fun to play in thing is the toilet. It is so gross. I now have to remember to shut all the bathroom doors or I'll have a huge water mess coming my way. The first photo you see she is cleaning the floor... so sweet of her, but its with the toilet water!!!! I couldn't stop laughing it just so funny what these little people do.

{Playing Outside}

2009-03-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

Layla absolutely loves to be outside, even when it is freezing cold. It is so fun to see her little body running around playing and learning more things she can do. When this little one has to come inside she usually has a melt down of crying and trying to pry the door open. Its too funny.

It's been awhile!

2009-02-16T10:31:00.000-08:00

Sorry, it has taken me so long to blog. Layla is just growing up fast and is starting to be independent. We tried the other day on letting her feed herself. She did so awesome! I was surprised at how unmessy she was...

Layla's Story.. So Far..

2008-12-23T12:39:00.000-08:00

This video was made by Layla's Aunt Cyndi in honor of her 1st Birthday
(Make sure to pause the music at the bottom of my blog so you can hear the cute music in the video)

{Layla's First Birthday}

2008-12-21T09:57:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Layla's first birthday Saturday, one day early. We wanted to do something fun that everyone would enjoy. Paul came up with the genius idea to go sledding, so we did! I think everyone enjoyed it. Unfortunately, there were are few crashes with other sledders, but all was well. After sledding we all headed back to Grandma and Grandpa Blanchard's house for chili and taco soup and some yummy cupcakes. I have to add that I made the cupcake frosting all by myself...and it was goooooooood. After all the yummy food we went down stairs and opened presents and watch Layla dive into her very own giant cupcake!! (thank you Vera) I think Layla had a pretty awesome day. My highlight was a video that Aunt Cyndi put together of all of her photos from the year. It was a wonderful gift. Thank you to all that attended and for all the presents!

Crawling over the cake
Diggin' in!

Oooh Cake!

Layla LOVES cellphones
The Birthday Cake

My first snow angel

Flying

Uncle Brian and Lincoln

Dave, Cyndi, Paul

Kelcy and Kylie

Layla and Dad

Mom and Layla

My first Snowsuit

2008-12-09T20:19:00.000-08:00

{MMM...SUCKERS}

2008-11-20T10:38:00.000-08:00

Are we bad parents because we gave an 11 month old a sucker? I hope not...

All I can say is Layla just loved that sucker. I won't be giving her another one anytime soon, because it is soooo messy and requires a bath afterwards. It was sure fun watching her go"mmm" and then smack her lips. It wasn't so fun trying to pry it out of her death gripped fingers. I wish we could have gotten a picture of how mad she was when we took it away. It was priceless.

Squirrly Face

2008-11-13T20:10:00.000-08:00

This is the face you get when you smile at Layla.

Halloween

2008-11-10T20:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Be-lated Halloween!

Layla Fun

2008-11-01T13:05:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post this video of Layla laughing. We are finding more and more "ticklish" spots everyday. In this video she was just laughing so much with no help. I would just raise my hand and she would start laughing. She is getting so big.
Little Update:
She has been taking more and more steps everyday. She loves to scream randomly, and can say Dada and Mama.

Bath Time

2008-10-15T19:02:00.000-07:00

Layla's hair is finally getting some length. When we dry her hair after her bath this is what it usually looks like. These are probably some of my favorite pictures of her.

Meal Time Gone Wrong

2008-10-11T15:27:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when Daddy lets a 9 month old feed herself.

P.F. Changs....Homemade

2008-10-08T22:05:00.000-07:00

Paul and I love to eat at P.F. Chang's. The food is always so good, but you can't eat there all the time because it is not cheap. So I searched and found two recipes one for ham fried rice and our favorite, Chang's spicy chicken. Monday night we made an attempt on it....and WOW it was delicious! I am surprised at how close it is to the real thing. Next time we will do a little tweaking...add a little extra of everything. But I surely recommend making this at home....you will be pleasantly surprised!

{Becoming Betty}

2008-10-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

I am trying to expand my culinary expertise. So today I made rolls from scratch! They don't look very good, but they do taste good.I didn't do any kneading at all. The recipe didn't call for any such work.
I must say I have never heard of a bread recipe that you didn't kneed the dough...
Maybe thats why mine were so flat? Or it could be because my yeast was expired by a few months?? haha, now that I think about it, it could have very well have been the yeast.
Let me know your opinions....

{Busy baby}

2008-10-02T16:16:00.000-07:00

This child is sooo busy! She is getting in to everything. Today it was hard to cook, because she was weaving in out and around my feet. She managed to get the stove drawer open and a jelly roll pan out! I grabbed the camera when she hopped in the drawer. It was too cute to not take a picture.

{Off To Lehi We Go}

2008-10-01T09:41:00.000-07:00

Last week Layla and I headed to Lehi to see Kelli and Kelcy. Kelcy was so excited to see Layla and I. We Hadn't seen them since Ricky's wedding. So it had been awhile. Kelcy was so cute and met us at the end of her road on her skateboard thing. Unfortunately, she biffed it hard on her way back to the house and had a nice gouge in her hand. We played outside until Kelli got home and then we had dinner....my favorite Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches! After dinner Kelli did some lady's glitter toes and Kelcy and I were making delicious home made oreo cookies. After the gals toes Kelli did mine! They are so cute.Layla had a gross blowout. Luckily it only somehow made it on her shirt? So Kelcy gave her a bath. After all that fun we headed home at about ten o'clock. Can't wait to do it again!

New Camera!

2008-09-22T20:58:00.000-07:00

Paul surprised me with a new camera when I got home from work. I love it! It is so much better than the last one. Here are a few new photos from the new camera!

Yummy Treat!

2008-09-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

*I only have a Belgian waffle iron, so my cookies were thicker. I cooked them for about a minute each. I didn't let the cookie get crusty like a normal waffle. I also used an ice cream scoop to scoop up the dough. It was the cleanest and easiest way for me. oh and I doubled the recipe*

R.I.P

2008-09-10T15:22:00.000-07:00

Our camera was just found dead in the diaper bag. This is so unfortunate. I will not be able to post any photos for a bit. But in light of this sad news...we shall be getting a much better camera!!!

2008-09-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

My mom just sent me some more photos of Ricky's wedding. I just thought this picture of Layla and I was funny!

She Said YES!

2008-08-20T16:05:00.001-07:00

Ricky and Leah tied the knot on August 16, 2008. Paul and I had a blast being in Las Vegas. It sure was different toting around a 8 month old. We wanted to stay up late and play, but we couldn't because of Layla's schedule. I think Vegas overstimulated her. She would not go to bed until midnight every night! Thankfully she would sleep in too and not wake up at eight(her normal wake up time). It felt odd walking through the casino with her, but had so many people say...Oh a baby! She is so cute!...that made me feel better about it.

Anyways, back to the wedding. Ricky and Leah got married at 11 am at the Las Vegas Temple. Their sealing was beautiful. It was nice and hot outside, but the lord blessed us with a cool breeze that made it more bearable through all the photos. After the temple we went and ate at Macayo's. It was sooo good. (That is the restaurant where my mom got her recipe for her famous Del mundo's and hot sauce). Then we all separated ways and then that night it was the reception. The food was great. She had chicken piccata, pasta with different toppings, rolls, and salad. The drinks were awesome. They had lemonade with cucumber slices in it. I was nervous to try it,but I love it! I want to recipe for it. Their cake was also delicious. We all just sat around and chatted it was a great time. I'm so excited for Leah to be in our family. Her personality just wins you over right away. Ricky is so lucky to have found such a beautiful eternal companion. He is SO in love....but you can surely tell she just adores him. Congratulations to Ricky and Leah. We are so happy for you!

The Cake

Saying "hello" to Grandma Lueck

The nieces and nephew practicing their send off bubbles

At Ricky and Leah's new apartment.
Todd and Paul arm wrestled.....Paul won :)
At my Bro Robbie's house. Kelcy, London and Layla.
I think London had a butterfly wings for everyone
Layla was fascinated with Leah's brothers braces...it was hilarious
He didn't mind her playing with them.

First time out as Mr. and Mrs. Lueck!
Leah Ricky and Camryn
Mom and Leah

Baby (Stair) Steps

2008-08-04T13:15:00.001-07:00

Layla continues to stretch the limits of her capabilities. She is already well beyond where we are told she should be physically and just the other day she decided to take her prodigy-like coordination to the stairs. As we watched television we suddenly noticed that Layla was not around and quickly found her scaling the stairs. It was an awesome sight as she ascended the seemingly impossible obstacles with her little legs. Yup, our little girl is growing up way too fast....stay tuned because who knows whats next, skateboarding???

My friend..........Kinda

2008-07-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

Miss Layla loooooves Tink.

Unfortunately I don't think Tink loves her as much. Layla loves to chew on all of Tinks toys and take them away from the dog. The puppy kind of likes it when she takes them away...she thinks she is playing. But when Tink is relaxing and Layla gets close to her the dog goes in the opposite direction because our sweet girl also loves to grab hair and doesn't know how to let go. The dog is the victim of this often....and has learned she is not so nice. Poor Tink has been neglected since the baby has come home, therefore doesn't like the babe much. But I think the older Layla gets the more the dog will like her. The upside for Tink is that Layla seems to be pretty tasty! She loves licking spit-up off of her face (and my favorite) eating her soiled diapers when she can snatch one...Her breath is marvelous to smell after that. Anywho...Enjoy the photos.

Creating a New Toy

2008-07-20T20:41:00.000-07:00

It is so fun to find new things for Layla to play with. Paul and I thought this picture was hilarious! We were laughing our heads off at how cute she looked with this just her size shopping cart. We got this mini shopping cart as a gift for our wedding. Its really a fruit basket.

New Discoveries!

2008-07-15T16:37:00.000-07:00

Layla has figured out how to pull herself up on just about everything! She really likes pulling herself up on our bar stools. Her poor knees are so red from rubbing on the tile while trying to stand. She also has learned to hold the bottle herself when eating. I don't like to let her do it herself very often. I like to be the one feeding her!

Bear Lake!

2008-07-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

We had a blast at Bear Lake over the fourth! As usual Layla didn't mind the water at all! I think she will be taking after her dad with loving the water. I kind of learned how to get up on a wake board. It is pretty hard, but next time I think it will only be easier. We had fun with all the nieces and nephews relaxing in the hammock and just enjoying each others company.

Sand....

.... Sand

and more sand.....

Layling in the hammock and loving it!

On the moose statue

Chillin in the water
Cousins Kara and Joshua
Layla and Kara
Layla after washing the sand off her bum
Grandpa Blanchard and Layla

Our Little Mover!

2008-07-02T17:24:00.000-07:00

Layla is just getting around quickly these days. Its fun to watch her figure out how to push herself forward....A lot of the time she is in push up position.

Example Shown :)

Layla's First Time Swimming!

2008-06-29T21:32:00.000-07:00

It was the babes first time swimming on saturday. It was so much fun! She didn't mind the water at all. Mike and Lacey came down with their little girl Elise...Fun times.....

Lacey, Mike, Elise...The Denson Family

Playing with daddy
All finished swimming

Dad being goofy
Trying it out
Sleeping when we got to the pool
Just chillin
Being silly

Funny Video

2008-06-22T09:31:00.000-07:00

*Don't forget to pause the music at the bottom of this page*

Babies are way to much fun! Layla turned 6 months old yesterday! She is sitting up by herself and loves to be moving. Speaking of moving....She has just about figured it out with the whole crawling thing. She now gets up on all fours and starts pushing herself forward. She has been a joy to have in our home!

Peek-A-Boo

2008-06-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

I have started to do my makeup in Layla's bathroom. The light in there is better!!So I put her in her crib while I got ready and when I looked to see what she was doing she was peeking at me through her crib rails. It was cute! Pretty soon I think she will be able to pull herself up! I eventually put her on the floor by her mirror and she loved looking at her self!

Our Little Screamer!

2008-06-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

Layla just loves to scream!! She does this for a good portion of the day. When she really gets going is right around her bed time. We think this video is hilarious, we hope you think so to!

*Don't forget to pause the music at the bottom of the page*

To The Doctors We Go!

2008-06-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

Layla is still having this diarrhea. It has been almost two weeks. The Dr. thinks that it isn't Rotavirus and that it is something else. This little one has lost some weight and has to have soy formula for the next few days (the soy is to help with her diarrhea). Right before I got Layla out of the car I could hear her grunting away, then I heard the explosion in her pants. I was crossing my fingers that some how it stayed in her diaper. I didn't bring an extra outfit, because I knew we wouldn't be there long. So sure enough when I get she has poo all over her clothes. The wee one had to ride home in only a diaper...
SO, now the Dr. wants us to get a stool sample of her poo. She recommended we put plastic in her diaper and when she goes to pour her liquid poo into the specimen cup. Kind of ridiculous. Oh, and the specimen has to get to the lab within about an hour....even more crazy! The joys of motherhood.

Waiting for the Doctor!
Ready to go home!

Poo...Poo...and More Poo

2008-06-10T12:06:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Layla has been battling Rotovirus for a week and a half! Along with that she has gotten a super bad diaper rash. She would scream every time we changed her. It just broke Paul and mines heart to see her hurt. Her temp. also spiked up to a 101.6, but came down quickly with the help of Tylenol and a cold wash cloth to the head. One of the nights I called the Dr. and she gave me some great tips to help with her diaper rash. I wanted to share them with you! Maybe you will learn a new trick..

Mix Mylanta and your favorite diaper rash ointment together and apply liberally to bum. The Mylanta acts as an anesthetic, so their bum won't hurt as bad and also neutralizes the acid from the diarrhea.
Bake flour in the oven until you smell it, let it cool and apply to bum like baby powder. This also helps soak up the liquid and help keep the babies bum dry.
If its a pretty bad diaper rash immediately stop using wipes. Some wipes have alcohol it and can make the rash worse. Every time your little one poos wash them off with just water and a rag! Let them air dry then apply diaper rash cream (the thicker the better). Hopefully your baby doesn't mind getting wet!

Despite all the baths she has been getting and the awful diarrhea Layla has been a happy child. It show in the pictures...

Cooling her down with the wascloth!Having fun with my toy and being naked!
Silly girl
Still naked and loving it!

Congratulations!

2008-06-10T11:44:00.000-07:00

I think this is right after he proposed...

Congratulations to Ricky and Leah! It is official they are getting married August 16 in the Las Vegas Temple. The Lueck Clan is so excited to have her in our family!

Tending The Niece and Nephews!

2008-06-08T18:19:00.000-07:00

Kara cuddling with Paul because she missed her parents!
Layla getting a bath after one of her MANY blowouts!
Even and Jeremy at their baseball game!
Layla eating bananas for the first time

(to help slow down her diarrhea)...she doesn't like them.

Layla just sleeping funny...
she loved their port-a-crib it was so colorful!

Paul and I tended to our niece and nephews while Paul's brother Dave and his wife Kristin were in Mexico. We were there from Tuesday to Saturday night. It was pretty good time watching the kids. They are so well behaved. We really only had to feed them;clean up diarrhea off of the rugs 'cause Kara didn't quite make it to the bathroom; clean Tinks mouth from eating that diarrhea; watch lots of Sponge Bob and eat waaaaaay to much junk food! Oh, and Layla had Rotovirus and a really bad diaper rash we were battling to! All in all it was a great time.

Yay... For Cereal!

2008-05-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

Layla got to eat her first solids on Memorial weekend. She was so ready to eat them! It was hilarious watching her first bite of solids. She had a funny look on her face, but the second bite she tried to eat it even faster! I didn't think that feeding her would be so messy...gosh, was I wrong!

5 Months old! Check This Out!

2008-05-21T13:32:00.001-07:00

Here is a video of Layla's latest discovery. She has figured out how to move/crawl....This little girl is just growing up WAY to fast. This video is long, but you can see that she does move herself forward. When we got home from Vegas I had set her down on the floor facing the kitchen and went and did something. I come back and she is facing the opposite direction! When I got home yesterday from work Paul said that she is moving! He left her on the bed, but had pillows surrounding her and she had pushed them off and got close to the edge. He said he was only downstairs just for a minute! I guess she shall no longer be left alone. Happy 5 month B-day!

Babies!

2008-05-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

It was so fun to see Ana and her cute baby Paisley. It was funny they were both wearing the same shirt! Kelcy fell in love with this little puppy. It was the runt of the litter and she just didnt want to put it down. It was cute the puppy would cuddle with and lay on its back!

Our Trip to Las Vegas!

2008-05-19T21:32:00.000-07:00

I finally got out of the house and went to Las Vegas! This was my first trip in a loooong time. I thought I was going to have to make the trip myself, but luckily my mom and dad came to Utah to pout a basketball court at my sisters house. So I asked mom if she was drive back to Vegas with me to help with Layla since Paul couldn't come because he had a conference. It was a pretty good drive there Layla did really well and mom kept her happy. I drove the WHOLE way there. Usually when I get into a car for a long drive I am out right away, so this was an accomplishment. We arrived in Vegas at like 7:30pm and drove straight to David's house had some KFC and then Todd and Ricky came over. We got to meet Ricky's GF. She is pretty cool. He sure found a great girl! Friday didn't do a whole lot, but I did get my hair colored and I chopped it off! I did get a big surprise Friday night...Paul kinda surprised me and by flying in to Vegas. I did find out a little early because Shannon had Davids phone and she was riding with me to Cafe Rio and she asked, "Who is Paul Blanchard"? I asked why and she said cause he just landed! I was so excited to see him. I was not thrilled to drive home by myslef. Saturday we were able to go see Kingston be blessed it was so awesome to see all my brothers in the circle. After the blessing we ate some food then headed to UNLV's graduation! We were there for four hours! It was so cool to see Robbie walking and get his degree. Needless to say they got his last name wrong. Robbie is the first child from our family to graduate with a degree. GO ROBBIE!!!!!!!!! Sunday Paul, me and the babe headed to Doland Springs AZ to his Grandparents house. They haven't met Layla yet. It was so fun to have lunch with them and to hear how there branch is growing and to meet their dog Kidd! He is a very sweet mellow dog. Layla was so smiley with G-Gpa Tom. It was so cute to see them together. She was getting fussy and I asked if i should take her back. He said nope let me figure this out! Sure enough he calmed her down! After visting with them for a few hours we drove back and stopped at Hoover Dam and took some pictures. We got back to Vegas and dropped off Layla at Davids and went to Le Reve at the Wynn...we had already seen the show, but they changed it up on us and it sucked! Luckily Paul made $250 bucks on black jack so the show was free! That pretty much sums up our trip.....

Hoover Dam
Paul and me by some river thing in AZ
Hoover Dam
G-Gpa and Layla

Great Grandpa and Kidd
Newest Lueck addition Kingston
Graduation

Ricky and his super awesome girlfriend Leah!
Grandma Lueck and Layla

Me getting my hair colored by my sister-in-law Crystal!
Autumn, Camryn, Me
Great Grandpa Tom and Layla
Uncle Ricky and the Babe
Uncle Todd!

4 Month Check Up!

2008-05-07T21:06:00.000-07:00

Getting measured and trying to roll away!

I'm 26 inches...I'm tall for my age!
Just chillin'...and waiting to get my shots!

I'm a STRONG 14.6 lbs!

I Found My Tongue

2008-05-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday Layla has found her tongue. She keeps sticking it out and laughing. I think she really likes it! Their new discoveries are so stinking precious!

2008-05-06T09:47:00.000-07:00

My New Friend!

2008-05-06T09:34:00.001-07:00

Layla and I went to Tiffany and Ava's house last week. It was fun to see the two little ones just stare at each other. Layla Kept trying to touch her...it was so cute! I think they had fun getting to interact with someone their size. I can't wait for more play times with them!

Does She Look The Same?

2008-05-01T18:02:00.001-07:00

The first picture is of Layla at four months and the second 20 weeks...

She is SO Smart!

2008-05-01T11:51:00.000-07:00

I know we all think that our kid is the smartest. And I do think Layla is smart. When she wants something she will get it. Like her binky....
I didn't think that she would have the coordination to grab and scoop it to her mouth. Granted, she never got it IN the right way, but close enough!

Fun With Layla..

2008-04-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

So Precious... I Love Daddy!
Layla is growing too fast....she's already got cleavage!
A sorta new toy that she really likes. Thanks Aunt Christina

for borrowing it to us !

4 Months Old... Look What I've Learned

2008-04-23T18:09:00.001-07:00

I've learned to suck my tumb.

I've learned to ignore my binky and savor my fingers.

I've learned to sit up by myself for a few seconds at a time.

I've learned to make my poo go out the front of my diaper.
And I'm happy about it...

Stupid? Probably...

2008-04-22T21:11:00.000-07:00

So, It's Tuesday night about 9:30 pm. I just got home from doing a twelve hour shift. I will add that it was busy day at work.. Not on the top of my game anymore. I had to meet Paul and Denny's in Bountiful to switch cars to get Layla. I get home and was just coming around the car and I see this black dude walking right towards me with a backpack. He starts yelling, "hey!". I said hey back...don't know why. So he starts jogging over to the garage. I was thinking, "holy s***t, whats he going to do to me?!??" and I pretty much froze. He gets to the garage and says you got to check this product out! He was selling Advantage The Wonder Cleaner. Starts showing me how his product worked. Cleaning the spots off of the concrete and the rims of the hummer. Cleaning the windows of the hummer. I felt like I was a participant on an Infomercial. Well I do have to say the stuff did work and is pretty cool. But that's beside the point. So then he ask to use my phone. Then right after he starts fumbling in his bag...I'm thinkin...CRAP!!!! Then he said he was looking for there number and then found it. He called his boss and was wondering where his ride was. I could hear the boss, he sounded mad. We chatted for another 25mins...I know you guys are thinking I'm the biggest idiot EVER! He called another number. Finally found his driver. They were pulled over by a cop just one street over from my house. Then he said he will just walk over to them. Then a cop pulled up to my garage and asked this guy for his ID and said that they still had his buddies. The guy was getting a little agitated because he had to show his ID and that is pals were still stopped. Then the officer said get in the car, and off they went.
So I have to mention now. That when the guy was trying to find that number out of his bag I remember seeing a paper with a police signet on it. I don't know if it was a simple ticket or something worse. That just has stuck out in my mind now...
And right now I'm thanking the Lord that I am ok and that my child is ok to. I am writing this because I kind of needed to vent it and realize that could have been bad and that I'm a moron and none you people do something so irrational too.
What would have you guys done in this situation? Would you have:
A: Closed the garage quickly?
B:Listened to his Schpeel?
C:Told him to get the hell away?
D: Don't know what you would have done...probably froze too.

More to the story...

So my friend Tiffany just called me and said that the people that were polled over were right in front of her house . The cops had pulled over a van and the people inside all got out and I guess there were about ten black men that were in the vehicle. So I was describing the guy to her and she said that was the one who was arrested!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AHHHHH....what the world. So once again I am thanking the Lord that nothing has happened to me in my stupidity.

Whoa...baby!

2008-04-20T19:36:00.001-07:00

Sunday Best!

2008-04-20T11:04:00.001-07:00

This was Layla second Sunday of going to ALL of church. She has done so well with the three hours. I missed all of Relief Society because I needed to feed her. I also kind of re- met an awesome girl Tiffany while in the Mother's Room. It was nice to finally to meet someone my age and our babies are a month apart. I need someone to hang out with so I can get out of this stinking house! I also found out that our branch meets on Thursdays at 10:30 for a mommy get together so that will be fun to go to...I hope :)

IT'S HUMMA TIME!

2008-04-17T13:31:00.000-07:00

Ever since the Hummer H2 was released in 2003 they have taken a bad rap for not being an off road beast like the original HUMMER is, but contrary to popular belief it is still quite the off road machine.

It was Saturday afternoon and I was going to wash my H2 because it was a little dirty. Well, why would you waste time washing a little dirty when you could make it worth your time and wash REALLY REALLY REALLY dirty!?! After a few runs up in the mountains I think you could say..."Mission Accomplished!"

My First Doll

2008-04-16T21:42:00.000-07:00

2008-04-14T21:05:00.000-07:00

Unusual Sleeping Habits 2

2008-04-12T12:06:00.000-07:00

Unusual Sleeping Habit

2008-04-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

Well I know I say this a lot, but I wasn't kidding when I said Layla sleeps in funny positions. Paul and I went to his parents house for a dinner and a movie with some friends. The babe had fallen asleep in her car seat so we put her in another room so we wouldn't wake her up. When we went to check on her this is what we stumbled upon...silly little girl. The video is kind of dark we didn't want to wake her up and miss this hilarious moment!

2008-04-06T19:26:00.000-07:00

Here are some more pictures of this cute baby! She is just funny when she sleeps. She slept like this for her whole nap. Layla is now starting to grab things intentionally. It is so fun to watch her grow and see the new things she is learning...but now she is starting to put things in her mouth! Thats going to make me nervous. I see too many kids that come to the hospital with crazy stuff stuck in their throats....the worries of motherhood!

Look what I can do!

2008-04-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

Layla has been rolling over for about a month now. She is getting better and better at it. It's starting to get hard to change her diaper, because she is rolling over so quickly. Enjoy the video!

Baby Vogue

2008-04-03T10:20:00.000-07:00

These pictures look like Layla is posing for a photo shoot or something. She is just so adorable. I can't get enough of her. She is 3 months old already shes weighing in at about 12 lbs and 23 inches long...she is just getting big!

Time has just gone so fast since she has arrived. She has just been a blessing in our lives. When we are having a bad day just one little smile from her makes it all better!

April Fools

2008-04-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was Paul and mines 3 year anniversary engagement day! Yes, April fools.
I can't believe it has already been that long and now we have a baby! Time has just flown by. He surprised me yesterday with these flowers and a wonderfully sweet card. I didn't think that he would remember! I was wrong...

When Paul proposed he did pull an April fools on me. Our first date we had he took me up to the Bountiful temple to show me it that was in January. So on April fools he took me up and we parked and were walking around. I turned around and he was down on one knee and had a black ring box out. I was shocked! He said," remember when I said I wouldn't have a ring for awhile".... he then opened the box and there was a Ring Pop inside!!!! Gosh, I was kind of mad and disappointed. But later that night after a performance Paul had he proposed to me at his parents house. He sent me on a trail of paper that said I Love You Because...and each had two roses next to it and when I got to the top of the spiral staircase he was there on one knee....and this time he actually asked me to marry him! Since then it has been a fun wild ride being married. I love him to death and thank Heavenly Father everyday for bringing him into my life.

I LOVE YOU PAUL!!!!!!!!

Daddy's so fun!

2008-04-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

It is so fun to see Paul and Layla playing together. Layla gets so excited and so smiley when she is with her dad. It just melts my heart to see the two together. I never thought motherhood would be as fun as it is. Even though I have been a little sleep deprived it is all worth it for this little one.

Having Fun at Aunt Kelli's

2008-04-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

Sorry Kelli I know you don't want your picture up!

Lately I have been traveling up to Kelli's house on Thursday nights while Paul is at his meetings. It has been a blast to see Kelli and Kelcy more often. Before we would sometimes go months without seeing each other. It was kind of ridiculous since we don't live very far away from each other. I hope we continue this for a long time!

Layla's Easter Dress

2008-03-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

Thank you Grandma Lueck for the super cute Easter dress!

2008-03-20T15:46:00.000-07:00

Layla sleeps in the funniest positions. I was trying to update this blog and she was fussy so I just kept typing away anyways and when I looked back this is the position she was in....precious little thing.

Mmmm Candy!

2008-03-20T15:10:00.000-07:00

I love Reese's Peanut Butter Cups!!!!! I just think they are delicious and on Wednesday at work something funny happened involving my favorite candy. Maybe this is a story that you needed to see, but it was hilarious to me!

I was at the vending machine getting me a King size Reese's. I put my money in the machine and presses D1. The lovey chocolate cups dropped and were then trapped, because it was too long to go through the space the way it fell. So I went to the surgery waiting room and asked the receptionists if they had a quarter that I could use to get another candy so it would hit the one that was stuck. The one lady asked, "Did you shake the machine"? I said no that thing weights a ton. Mind you this lady is at least 65 years old. She says, "well let me come and shake it for you". I told her NO WAY I don't want you to hurt yourself. She said she would be just fine and didn't want me to help since I just had a baby. I was thinking there is no way she is moving this thing. So we go to the machine and sure enough she starts shoving this machine back and forth lifting it off of the ground. It was banging so loud I'm surprised the glass didn't break. I was laughing the whole time and just kept cheering her on. After some final big shakes she got my candy loose! She said she hates it when other people get free candy. We were just laughing when we got back to the waiting room. Everyone was staring at us....probably wondering what the noise was and wondering why this young girl couldn't get her candy out but a 65 some odd year old could.....wimp I know.

Here's Atleast One Picture...

2008-03-15T11:58:00.000-07:00

(Courtesy of Marsha)

Here's at least one picture from Layla's blessing day. We were just so busy we forgot to get a picture of her, But Aunt Marsha got some!
This was such an awesome experience to be able to watch all of my brothers and husband participate in blessing our baby. I'm so thankful that they are worthy priesthood holders

2008-03-12T14:55:00.001-07:00

I just think this is a cute picture of her!
Thanks, Auntie Marsha for the cute bows!

Ahhh...so precious!

2008-03-12T14:48:00.001-07:00

I wanted to see if Layla would try to grab this soft little giraffe or just even be interested in it. She was! She kept watching it as I moved it around. I put it by her face and some how she managed to hug it! It was so stinking cute. The doctor said at her last check up that she will start grabbing at things and to be careful with what we have in our hands....its already beginning!

Ooooh Baby.....

2008-03-12T11:13:00.000-07:00

This baby is so fun to dress and buy accesories for! I love these glasses and lucky enough Layla likes to wear them too. I bought them at Gymboree with a gift card I got from Stacey and Daniel from work! Thanks guys!!

Gosh we're a good looking family!

2008-03-12T10:04:00.000-07:00

LtoR: Kelli Ricky David, Robbie Todd Ashley

Ma and Pa in front

This is all the Lueck clan on the day of Layla's blessing. You know what's funny....I didn't get a single picture of Layla on her special day. I'm so mad!!! So if anyone has a pic of her send me one!

I was so excited to have all of my siblings come and participate on this big day even with the bad weather and Marsha being 8 months pregnant!! David and Crystal traveled from Las Vegas the night before not getting in until midnight. There were a few times we said they should turn around because the weather was so bad, but they pressed on. There SUV looked like someone sprayed water on it and froze it!

Oh, the things we do to be beautiful!

2008-03-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

I think babies with their ears pierced are sooo cute! So I wanted to get Layla's done. It took some effort though. Kelli and I had to go to three different piercing shops to get the babes ears done. I have lost my drivers license and in order to pierce Layla's ears I needed it. So the first place said no. I asked if Kelli could just use her license and they said no. So they said go to Icing and they should be able to do it. We went to icing this time with a plan. Kelli was going to act as Layla's momma! She was having issues with lying about it...I'm not sure why though. We got to icing and they said she needed to be 3mo. But Kelli and I think that the gal from Clarie's called and said we were coming and going to lie about who was the mom. Well if she did they were right. Finally we called another place at Provo Towne Center and they said they could do it but needed a license. So since they didn't know us there we could pull off our little fib. Layla did great. She cried for a little bit after and was back to normal quickly like nothing happened!

NO!!! Not her again.....

2008-03-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

(sequence of feelings)

in that order

I don't know if all of you guys knew that I was in an accident when I was 26 weeks pregnant. It happen early in the morning about 6:30am on Beck Street going to SLC. Traffic came to quick stop. So I stopped. The car behind me stopped, but the idiot behind her didn't. So I got smacked into by the middle car. Mind you all, this was in my wonderful Mother-in-laws car.....So as a result, I had to go to the hospital to be observed for 4 hours. This nurse in the picture..GRRR! and this is why.....
After I had been at the hospital for 2 1/2 hours I was getting thirsty so I asked her if I could have a drink. What she told me was horrid. She said

I can't give you anything to drink in case we have to do and emergency C-section and you know babies at that age might live or they might DIE

....Seriously why would you add the "might die" part? I still ask myself that. So after she said that both Paul and I were a little freaked out that all of a sudden this baby could be coming that day! Thankfully she decided to stay and bake longer.
So when I arrived at the hospital to be induced guess who was the first person I saw? Yes, you got it....That nurse. My blood pressure started to boil. I was thinking "oh, great I get her again". She showed me to my room and told me to put my gown on and said such wonderful words..."I'm just helping you for now until your nurse is available". phew....I don't think that I could handle her for a whole day. Thank goodness my prayers were answered! I think it is funny that Paul happened to take a picture of her!The nurse pictured in the "good" photo was awesome! She was an answer to my prayers. She made me feel comfortable the whole time and kept everything light and had just a wonderful attitude. It was great she knew Dr. Spencer very well....he delivered her kids too!

She's Arrived....2 1/2 months ago!!!!

2008-03-08T17:58:00.001-08:00

Layla Faye Blanchard was born on December 21, 2007 at 1:37pm. She weighed in at 8lbs. 1 oz. At that point in the day she was the biggest baby! The labor was a piece of cake. I was in labor for 5 1/2 hours and pushed a total of 9 times! I don't think I even broke a sweat. I surely took after my mother with how easy baby making and the delivery was!! hahaha....

I have added some picture of her right when she came out. Sorry if they some gross you out.

Almost Done!

2007-12-20T11:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Paul's birthday. So we celebrated by going to dinner and a movie! It sadly is our last date alone :( Tomorrow I am being induced! I am super excited and really nervous. Here is a pic of my tummy to show how big I am!

Almost there!

2007-12-20T10:58:00.000-08:00

I have just one more day to go. This is my Tummy as of Dec. 19th. It was Pauls birthday last night and we went to dinner and a movie. It was our last date alone :( oh and its my birthday today!

2007-10-05T23:04:00.000-07:00

Me at six and half months

2007-10-05T23:00:00.000-07:00

2007-10-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

The Real Baby!

2007-05-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

Now this is our real baby... 9 and 1/2 weeks old. You can now call it a Fetus!! It really looks like a blob. But he has a really strong heart beat going about 163 beats a minute! The doctor said he could see the head and both legs and both arms. I don't know how in the world he could see that already but thats why hes the Doc and not me!

It still doesn't seem real that I am pregnant. Maybe I'm still in denial. I was taking birth control regularly. Apparently the Lord had other things in mind for us....Paul likes to think his sperm are supermen. haha....

More about us...

2007-05-29T11:46:00.001-07:00

I forgot to tell you about our first baby.... Tinker

She is the cutest thing ever! She really keeps us on our toes and laughing all the time!!

Tidbit on us...

2007-05-29T11:21:00.000-07:00

Paul and I were married June 24, 2005 in the Bountiful Utah Temple. We have almost been married for two years now!! We are expecting our first baby this December around the 28th. I hope the baby doesn't come any sooner, since Pauls birthday is the 19th and mines the 20th. That's just way too many birthdays all at once!