The Barnes Family Blog

Maddie's B-Day

2011-07-29T21:37:00.000-07:00

My sweet baby turned 3 in April! I can't believe it's been three years since that tiny infant was placed into my arms for the first time. She is growing so fast (tear). At our house we have a tradition that on your birthday you get to be awaken by cake and the whole family singing "Happy Birthday". Here's the video! It's so sweet.
Then I gave her a letter from Cinderella (whom she LOVES) that said Happy Birthday and may all your dreams come true. Also if she had time she would come visit Maddie on her birthday.

After that we went to the park and then home to get a special present!

She very own gown sent from her fairy Godmother to wear to a Royal Ball that was being held in her honor. She couldn't wait to get ready and go!

Thanks to my sweet boss at ShowStoppers I rented the perfect ballroom! Also my sister Kenzie made this amazing cake!

Most everyone arrive in a carriage! Darn that Nate always talking and driving!

By the best thing about the party was Hailey (Kenzie's friend from her ward). She looks just like Cinderella and is such a sport. She got all dressed up and came to the party and danced with Maddie. She loved it!

Thanks to everyone who came for making Maddie's birthday special. I'm so grateful for our family and all the love and support they give! And to my sweet baby girl: Happy Birthday Maddie. I'm so proud of the person you are. Are have taught me so much and I am eternally grateful for you. I love you Madeline!
Love Mama

April Update!

2011-07-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

April is always a big month at our house! But before I dive into birthdays and all that I have to tell you about a new focus I have. Now that we are officially a family of four I've started doing family fun time! for our first adventure we went down to the Mayan (which no on had been except me) and explored the world of "fine diving" LOL (I'm so cheesy).

For my birthday Nate took me to the roof and I went to the Salt Lake Temple for the first time! I know! Crazy! Seven years of being endowed and I just barely went and did a session there. It was amazing and probably the best birthday I've ever had. The roof is some much better if you are with your true love and not some lame prom date would forgets his check book LOL.

Then that Friday (at my request) my wonderful friends and family went Laser tagging! And seriously it was just what I wanted! My sister Kenzie made a beautiful cake with says "Happy Birthday" in french.

I really liked this birthday. I wouldn't mind repeating it because 26 seems like an easy age.
Stay tuned for Maddie's Birthday......................

Wow! Really?

2011-07-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

Has it really been this long since I've posted something? Life has been flying at double speed lately, some of which I am grateful for. Well I will be posting several things and giving a quick update about everyone so stay tuned! Oh and yes we moved to Salt Lake!

New Look and new signature!

2011-05-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

My friend Kerianne has the cutest blog I have seen! I always wonder how she did a personalize signature at the end of each post. Well I'm please to tell you I've discovered it! If you would like to know how...please feel free to leave me a comment :)

Baby Dez Update

2011-04-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

Baby Dez is growing like a weed but has the temper of a thorny bush. And get this....he has red hair!! What? We have no idea where that comes from. Both of us has a red tint but baby Dez looks like he will definitely be a redhead or at least reddish brown.

Baby Dez got surgery.

He was born with a small clef lip and went down to Primary Children's on the first of April to have it fixed. He was such a trooper and the team down there are excellent. Thank you to everyone for your support and prayers. He is doing great!

Right after the surgery

He had to wear arm restraints. It was so sad.

Two weeks after surgery. He is healing so fast!

Maddie Update

2011-04-14T09:17:00.000-07:00

I figured since I was posting quite a bit I would do individual child updates. Maddie is going wonderfully. She is very excited to celebrate her 3rd birthday on the 22nd of April. Here's some of the achievements Maddie has made this year.

In January Maddie started at ShowStoppers.

Her class has 6 other girls one of which is her best friend and cousin Brinlee. Maddie and Brinlee are the youngest in the class which can be a struggle at times but all in all I think they are both doing very well. They are doing three songs: When you wish upon a star, Bibbity Bobbity boo and Beautiful Briny Sea. I love teaching her class. Although I don't know how school teachers teach their own children. I don't think I would have the patience to do so.

Maddie is a great big sister!
She loves to hold baby Dez and always asks first. I can tell she really loves him because if he isn't with us she says "Oh no! We forgot baby Dez!" I then explain to her that baby Dez can't come to ShowStoppers because he's too little. She get's so worried. It's adorable!

She can ride.......well kind of.

She got a tricycle for Christmas this year and has wanted to ride it almost everyday since. Finally we got some nice weather for she to play. She tried really hard to pedal but her legs are so short that it might take a little while before she gets the hang of it. Until then we have lots of fun watching her. LOL

Las Vegas!!!

2011-04-14T07:59:00.001-07:00

Since Nate and I didn't get a chance to celebrate our sixth year anniversary (Dez was only 6 days old) we decided to head to Las Vegas.
Here we are beginning our adventure. We almost weren't able to go because I threw out my back two days before. But with some help from loved ones and lots of rest I was able to still go.
When we got there it was super early so we explored our hotel. It was amazing!! We stayed at the Cosmopolitan. It's named after the museum and has lots of random artwork everywhere in the hotel.

It was the cleanest, nicest hotel I've ever seen in Vegas. They gave us an upgraded room!!

The is our view from the balcony!

Oh and did I mention this view??!!?!?

Our hotel also had this amazing crystal chandelier bar as well as this huge shower at the pool. LOL

Yah it was pretty incredible! We went to the tournament of the Kings and ate at Bobby Flay's Restaurant! We loved it!

Our last day we went to New York New York (I just love Greenwich village there). I found this cute door! It's my dream to have a yellow and black house :)

That night we got to see our friend's Melanie, Nephi and there adorable son Anderson. Nephi is going to med school in Las Vegas so it was super fun to see them. Sweet Melanie is 9 months pregnant and I'm sure she's the cutest prego I've seen :) We went to see the fountains and the gardens at the Bellagio.

All in all we had a great time. Although Vegas is a pretty corrupt city we tried to stay away from places that made us feel uncomfortable and I will tell you this was the most positive experience I've ever had in Las Vegas. We'll be going back soon!!

New Project: The Bathroom

2011-04-14T07:44:00.000-07:00

The interior design bug bit me after spending some time with my cousin Melissa. Every time I am over at her house we are like two little school girl, but instead of being exciting about our latest crush, we have a crush on styles. This led to my latest creation and here's how it turned out.....

The Before

The After

Those of you patiently waiting....

2011-04-12T11:38:00.000-07:00

I'll admit that my blogging has taken a backseat recently. I do have much to blog about however my life is pretty unmanageable right now. While I am working to organize life and be a good mom to both children bare with me. I will be posting some adorable pictures soon!!!

Annoucing Desmond Kenneth Barnes

2011-01-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

This is our sweet baby Desmond Kenneth Barnes born December 28th 2:34 a.m. He weighed 7lbs even and was 18 inches long. Although he came three weeks early he is doing great! Maddie is very helpful with her new baby brother. She is so excited to be a big sister. If you would like the whole story scroll down.

So here's how it all happened. Monday night Nate got home from work and I was having contractions like normal. My sister had let me borrow her Twilight movies, so I was watching New Moon. I really didn't want to go to the hospital (because I thought they would just send me home) but since they were coming every 3-7 minutes we thought it was time. We got to the hospital around midnight.
When we got to the hospital a girl in the ER ask me (in the middle of a contraction) "what are we seeing you for?" I probably shot her the meanest look, but I'm sure she's seem that look before. When we got into triage I was dilated to a 5 and 90 effaced! Nate and I were so happy because that meant no more contractions. It was now around one a.m. but we decided to call our parents and wake them up. After getting all ready, we headed for the operating room (I had a c-section because of complications when I had Maddie).
Having a c-section was a very different experience than vaginal. There was music playing and everyone in the room was calm. I even remember them quoting Elf while they were cutting. And then before I knew it, they held this purple baby over the blue curtain. All I could think was "Who's baby is that?" LOL I'm pretty sure this story would be very different if told from Nate's point of view.
I stayed four days in the hospital and had no complications with the surgery. We've had lots of help along the way which we are very grateful for. Dez is such a sweet, calm baby. I still think to myself "Who's baby is this?"

Very Merry Christmas!

2011-01-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

Nate, Maddie and I had a very Merry Christmas. This year was very different because I wasn't able to go anywhere because I was on bedrest. Still, it was nice to have a low key Christmas. Normally our family runs around from 5:00 a.m. and return around 11:00 p.m. because we have four different parents to visit. So this year was great. It all started on Christmas Eve morning. My Dad and Debbie came over for breakfast and we opened gifts then. They gave Maddie this adorable mini Cinderella doll (which she loved). Also Aunt Kenzie made Maddie this adorable tutu which she now refused to take off (That's why she's dressed as a pretty princess in the picture). My step mom Debbie made us (all 23 members of my family) beautiful stockings all hand sewn. They are sooo beautiful. It was super fun. Next we had a Christmas Eve dinner. Every year my mother-in-law makes each of us pajama pants for Christmas. Nate and I always open them Christmas Eve and then take pictures in front of the Christmas Tree. This year our family double in size. Also this is the sixth year we've written Christmas Testimonies. I love our traditions. The next morning we woke up at 6:00 a.m. to open presents. Nana also came to visit while we opened presents. She got Maddie a pillow pet and a doll house. She loves them. I got Nate Alton Brown's book "I'm only here for the food", a new outfit and some measuring cups. Nate got me a new purse, outfits, trench coat and new pillows! It was great. We got Maddie lots of little things but she two big presents were first; Cinderella on DVD and second she got a leotard, ballet shoes and lessons at ShowStoppers. She can't wait!! We didn't really make it to anywhere else on Christmas because my contractions got really bad. But later Nate we to visit his Dad and his mom of which we got super spoiled Me: Maternity Massage and gift card to buy clothes that fit after the baby gets here Nate: Another gift card for clothes and a huge box assorted meats and cheeses and Maddie: a tricycle, lots of clothes and yet another tutu. It was great. The next couple of days we enjoyed our time together while Nate is on break. Nate and Maddie made a snowman outside and went sledding in the backyard. I told Nate that I want to be able to have fun next winter and not be nine months pregnant.

Year End Review

2011-01-04T22:13:00.001-08:00

This year was amazing and like last year I feel the need to review what happened because it all went so fast.

January: After living with my sister Kenzie and her husband Brad for a month we moved in with my mom. It was a big decision but I'm glad we did it. We also rented our house out in Layton to a very nice couple. Nate began his second semester in the Clinical Lab Science program at Weber and I returned back to school for Public Relations.

February: Maddie spent her first night in a big girl bed and we (Maddie and I) celebrated Valentines Day by making cookies and getting pretty for Daddy. Nate and I took a trip up to Lava Hot Springs for Valentines Day.

March: I had a fun St. Patricks Day party with my family (truly it was for Maddie and my niece Brinlee). For Valentines I gave Nate a date of the month club which we've recently had difficulties finding time to do it, however I plan to give the same gift again :) (Luckily he never reads our blog lol). The date in March was Romancing the Alleys. We both studied for test and bowled at the same time. It was great.

April:In April Maddie celebrate her second birthday with a trip to chuck-e-cheese. We had so much fun! I also went to Park City for my mom's birthday and had a girl night for my birthday. Yah for 25! This months date was up to Logan to the temple and then to the BlueBird for dinner. Always a favorite. I also tried out for Footloose at the Terrace Plaza Playhouse and made Rusty (the supporting lead)

May: In May I ran the Ogden 5K and had a blast doing it. Nate and I both finished our finals with great relief and (dramatic drum roll).......We found out we were expecting!!!!! We were both so in shock that it took a while to set in! ShowStoppers had their Spring show and I got some relief.

June: I started summer semester which wasn't the greatest but pushed through it anyway. Nate picked up more hours at Garcia's and Maddie waited patiently for her mother to become available for play time. Footloose opened and Maddie came to the show a lot. She can sing the theme song "Footloose" almost all the way through. My daughter defiantly has a love for music.

July: This month my cousin Carli got married (which is super exciting). I wrote a huge paper for my Comm Law class while Nate looked for jobs at McKay Dee. Maddie still waited patiently for me to have more time (bless her heart). ShowStoppers summer camp was in and my sister Kenzie join the team (so happy).

August: Summer semester was finally over and we took a family vacation to celebrate the three weeks of summer we actually got. We went up to my grandpa's property in Preston Idaho and Maddie had a really hard time sleeping.

September: School was back in session and both Nate and I knew this semester was going to be hard but we did it anyway. We found out that we were having a boy and decorated his "room" over Labor Day weekend. Maddie seemed open to the idea of having a brother and I defiantly started looking pregnant. I also started teaching 8 classes at ShowStoppers, 14 private voice students, and a preschool class with my niece and my daughter. Things got busy quick!

October: Poor Daddy always has to miss fun things like trick-or-treating and Halloween parties because he is working. But we still try to have fun even though he's not there. Maddie was Cinderella for Halloween (her FAVORITE Disney Princess).

November: Nate is at the top of his class for CLS (which is amazing). One day he missed class and his professor didn't know the answer to something. One of his follow students later told us the he said "Where's Nate? He would know this." Isn't that amazing? I had my private recital this month and was glad to see things slow down a little. I was also feeling super pregnant. Maddie was spending more and more time on campus. She got up on Saturday and said "Are we feeding the ducks today?" That's when I realized that feeding the ducks and being up on campus was becoming routine for her.

December: After spending Thanksgiving with just our moms and us things felt like they were really going to be low key until the on Black Friday I started having contractions. The Doctor put me on bedrest with one week of school left and 4 ShowStopper performance to do. After struggling through bedrest, finals, work, and performances Nate, Maddie and I welcomed our new baby boy Desmond Kenneth Barnes on December 28th at 2:34 a.m.

Wow! Is it okay that I wish for a less stressful 2011? This year took a lot out of me and after careful consideration I am taking this semester off. I will still be attending summer semester but as of right now the most important thing to me is my family. Happy New Year!!!

Catching up..

2010-12-16T18:21:00.000-08:00

Because I've been with school and showstoppers, I didn't get a chance to postthings about this wonderful fall season. First evernt: Halloween Maddie dressed up as Cinderella and we (Nana, Maddie and myself) went to the Ward Halloween Party. I'm really startiing to enjoy my ward. They had a costume parade, which she loved, and then we went trick or treating around the church. It was really fun!

Nate and I were just too busy to do our Halloween Party this year so instead we carved pumpkins and went trick-or-treating with the Barnes Family. Nate went as a Mad scientist, I was a vampire (or pregnant Bella) and Maddie was again Cinderella.

Second Event: Thanksgiving This year Nate and I did Thanksgiving with just our family! It was so neat to make everything from scratch and it also gave me a lot of appreciatation for how much effort my mom always puts into Thanksgiving. We invited our moms to enjoy the meal. It was a great day! I have picture of the dinner hiwever, they are on Nate's phone so I'll post them later.
The Last event: School
This semester was a huge milestone for me because I actually passed Math 1010. This might seem like nothing to most people, however I struggle with Math like no other subject. Give me a 30 page paper to write and I will have it done in the morning. But logarithims and quadratic equations are another story. I've never worked so hard in ANY other class. And with my B- posted online there's no way they can take that away from me. I'm also official a Junior at WSU. It only took four years but it's worth it! I can't wait to be done. Anyway, here's a picture of me hard at work in graphic design.
Another class that required a lot of hard work and time was Weber State News. Here's the video of when I produced and was the Lead Anchor. It's crazy how much I hate the news after having this class LOL.

Nate also had quite the difficult semester and I think we are both relieve I will be taking next semester off. Till Summer!

Growing Babe!

2010-12-16T18:13:00.000-08:00

This pregnancy I've taken pictures a little differently. The first one we had me stand by the calendar and pose sideways. This time I've just taken a picture of my belly. I think it's neat to see the change.

hummmm...what to do

2010-12-16T17:26:00.000-08:00

Well bedrest has some ups and downs but I try to keep busy. One thing I like to keep busy with is reading and crafts. It also gives me an excuse to catch up on my blogging. Yesterday, I started looking up different way to decorate our bathroom and I kind of got carried away. Well, I ended up designing my dream house. Here's what I ended up with. Let me know what you think.

Master Suite with Breakfast Balcony
“Chocolate Lovers”
Colors: Chocolate Brown, Black, Gold

Elements:Satin, Stone, Tweed, Fireplace, Textured Walls
Focus: Lighting~

Master Bathroom:
“Naturalist Spa Get away”
Colors: Dark Black/Brown, Pale Green, White

Elements:Mahogany, Sheer Fabric, Shutters, River Rock
Focus:Natural Light~

Breakfast Balcony:
“French Cafe”
Color: Red, Green, Grey

Elements: Planters Boxes, Cast Iron Table, Canvas Umbrella with lanterns
Focus: Greenery with interchangeable planter boxes

Bedroom #1:
“1920's Paris”
Color: Cream, Pale Pink, Champagne

Elements: Lace, Cream painted Iron, Satin, Chandelier, Brick
Focus: Romantic Lighting and Art

Bedroom #2:
“Whimsical Cape Cod”
Color: White, Orange, Blue

Element: Bead-board, Quilts, Ocean Elements (starfish, Anchors)
Focus: Natural Lighting

Office:
“Swiss Education”
Colors: Lime Green, Light Blue, Dark Blue, White

Elements: Bookshelves, Chaise Lounge Chair, Levi, White Cotton curtains with embroider detail, abstract art
Focus: Artistic Creativity

Upstairs Bathroom:
“Polar Bear Club”
Colors: Monochromatic Blue, white and beige

Elements: whicker, spa robes, canned lighting, towels, bamboo
Focus:Natural Lighting balanced with artificial lighting

Middle Floor
Half Bath
“Modern Bumble Bath”
Colors: Black, White, mustard Yellow

Elements: OrnateSilver, Wallpaper, Florals, black chandelier
Focus: Ornate Lighting

Great room:
“Sunset Safari”
Colors: Black/Brown, Red, Orange, Yellow

Elements: African Exploring elements (trunk, elephants) Chair rail with yellow/orange top and red/orange bottom with textured walls, Tall and large furniture elements, leather, Heavy draperies
Focus: Warm lighting and inviting

Kitchen:
“Modern Country Garden”
Colors: Pear Green, Cream, White, Black

Elements: Honey Oak, Stainless Steel, White Tile, Fresh Greens, Cabinets with Glass Doors, circles
Focus: Fresh and Crisp Kitchen

Dinning Room:
“Tuscan Countryside Villa”
Colors: Purple, brown, wine red, cream

Elements: Wood with architectural detail, iron, small color accents
Focus: Comfort and Lighting

Sitting Room/Piano Room:
“Serene Swiss Comfort”
Colors: White, Orange, Robin Egg Blue, Dark Cedar wood from Piano

Elements: Large White Plush Couch, Blue textured walls, paisley fabric, silk orange pillows, pottery
Focus: Comfort and Natural Lighting reflected with furniture

Basement
Bathroom:
“Asian Powder Room”
Colors: Pink, Purple, Black

Elements: Polish Black Stone, Ornate Wallpaper, Bear-claw Bath, sitting vanity, tropical flowers
Focus:Sophisticated Night Life

Bedroom #3
“Hidden Beauty Bedroom”
Colors: Green, Black, Yellow

Elements: Black Rock, Four-post black bed frame, ceramic tile, Sheer fabric
Focus:Relaxation with Asian Elements

Bedroom #4
“Pioneer Purity”
Colors: White,Antique White, Cream, White bed frame

Element: Quilts, Fabrics, Rocking Chair, Silver/Brass Pictures, Lace
Focus: Comfort in Sleeping “This room is what pioneer women dreamed of coming home to”

Great Room/Kitchen:
“Functional Family Room”
Colors: monochromatic browns, cream, beige, white, sage

Elements:easy clean fabrics, lots of seating, large lighting elements, mismatched furniture
Focus: Comfort meets Capability

Sweet baby!

2010-12-06T10:23:00.000-08:00

We are so excited for our new baby to come..however, he's made plans of his own. Last Saturday I started feeling contractions pretty regularly. When I called the doctor she told me to come in immediately. Since I'm only 34 weeks Nate and I were terrified to have the baby now. They finally got my contractions to stop and I spent a couple days in the hospital and then got put on "modified bed rest". As of right now I'm scheduled to have a c-section on January 12th.

This is quite the challenge because it was the last week of class as well as my showstopper performances. But with the help of many loved ones and willing professors, I was able to make it through. Now I just have to catch up in school and we will be good to go.

On another note I am super excited for Christmas and can't wait to put the tree up. This Christmas I'm hoping to make it a more meaningful holiday season. Nate and I have made a goal not to watch television for 30 days. We are already on day ten and I'm feeling really good about it. We both felt we needed to do some readjusting in our lives and put Christ at the center.

It's a boy!

2010-10-03T10:21:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can't believe how much has happened since I last posted something. To say that life has been crazy is a HUGE understatement. So since this post will be a bit longer I've titled each section so you might read what you are interested in.

#1 Baby Update

We found out that we are having a boy! I can't believe it. I was in shock for about a week until it hit me. I am going to have a messy, truck playing, frog wanting, dirt eating little boy. I feel like I know nothing about boys!!! Really. However, through prays and guidance from my father in heaven I move forward with faith. I've done many difficult things in my life so who's to say I can't do this? LOL In the meantime I'm getting lots of good advice from friends and relatives with boys. We decided to name him Desmond Kenneth Barnes. I love love love this name for many different reasons. First, it's not incredibly popular. Second, I really like the accompanying nicknames (i.e. Dez, Dezzy). And last Nate chose it. I was very passionate about our first daughter being named Madeline because it's so special to me. Since Nate was very willing to let me have that name, I am more than willing to have him pick our son's name.

#2 Madeline

Maddie is doing great and growing well. She hasn't gained a ton of weight however, her last doctor's appointment was the first time she was on the growth charts. She loves to play pretend and enjoys going to preschool with her cousin Brinlee. Her favorite movie is Cinderella and she loves to dance with her life size Cinderella. It's so cute. I'm not sure she's sold on the idea of having a sibling but she loves to say goodnight to Dez. Her language skills blow me away and it's only when I'm around my four-year-olds in class that I realize how ahead she is. She doesn't enjoy having her hair done and after a week of struggling to do something with her hair, I took her in and cut it off. It's so cute and looks great on her. She's starting to fear certain things like bugs and flip flops (crazy huh?). In fact, she told me the other day that wearing flip flops is "too dangerous". Although I don't get that much time with her, I cherish the time we do spend together.

#3 Nate-school/work

Nate has been super busy with school and tests. He doesn't like to boast so let me do it for him. Nate is amazing at his program. Just the fact that he was accepted into his program the first time is pretty amazing. Not only does be excel in class but he's gotten over 90% on all of his test. He blows my mind!!!! It's not like these classes are easy either. We talking Clinical Math and Chemistry. I'm super proud of my hubby and thankful that although he works a lot he still willing to come home and work so I can rest. Also, I'm thankful that his beard is gone :)

#4 Kamie-school..work...projects...life :)
Being in school has been crazy, but super fun. I've enjoyed my classes and have turned in some major projects already. I've turned four stories for the Weber State News which is pretty neat. I might be anchoring sometime soon and am really nervous for. I'll let you know if or when I'm on.
Showstoppers is going well and moving along. I'm teaching eight different classes and 11 private students so this keeps me quite busy. It is fun but I'm looking forward to a little bit of a break.
Last weekend my sweet mother took my daughter to the zoo and let me get some homework done. Since they were gone for quite some time I was able to do a craft as well. This wreath took a while but was so fun.

Another project was finding a place for Dez. Since we thought it would be difficult for Maddie to share a room with him and this point I've tried to Maximize size by putting the crib in an alcove.

It's not the best place but it will have to do for now. I loved the colors and my mother-in-law is making me bumper pads! I can't wait!
That' pretty much it other than getting into my last trimester.
I'm so happy and excited for this new baby. There's a lot to worry about but I've turned my worries into faith in the Lord that he will help me accomplish these things. Hopefully it won't be another three months for my next post!

We're expecting!

2010-06-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

As many of you know Nate and I are expecting our second baby in January. I am both scared and excited for this! Having another baby is such a joy and exciting time in life. Now I need to start doing some planning.

I am planning to take just one class during Spring semester which might prove difficult.
I am also planning to take about six weeks off from my jobs which could also be difficult but we will see for now. I have a hard time telling people no and I'm a little concerned I will do too much.

However, with the stressful planning also comes the exciting part for me. Today I starting looks through all my maternity clothes and found some blankets we saved for our second child (they deserve something new too right?)

These are my plans for either a boy or a girl.

If we have a boy we're planning to name him Thomas Kenneth and call him T.K. If it's a girl we are going to name her Olivia Janet (another child named after a book) and call her Libbie J. As most of you know I don't appreciate the fact that my name is just Kamie. I always wished I had something more professional to go by so thus my children get Madeline and Thomas Kenneth.
Since we live with my mother right now we're a little tight on space. It got me thinking where in the world are we going to fit another child? And then....the epiphany! The cute little alcove where my computer desk resides will be a perfect spot for the new baby. It's close to the fire which will be a great source for sound and warmth but still far enough away that I will not go crazy with our new tenant.
So now I most recent idea? Decor! I found these great pictures of ideas I have. If it's a boy I would like to do a Lime green and Chocolate Brown Room.

And for Libbie's room....Olivia decor of course. Black, White and Red. A long time ago my cousin introduced me to this great almost vintage looking Olivia fabric and I fell in love!

Maddie's Birthday!

2010-05-02T17:19:00.000-07:00

My sweet little baby turned 2 on the 22nd! She is getting so big and discovering so many things. Here are a few things about Maddie @ 2
Maddie wakes up at 9:00 and goes to bed at 7:30 (I feel pretty lucky!)
Maddie would take a 3 hours bath everyday if I let her
She LOVES hots dogs, chocolate and fruit of all kinds.
Maddie can sing over 25 different songs! Sometimes it catches me by surprise/
She loves her family and often stops what she is doing, turns to me with a strange look and then decides "I love _____(insert family members name)" It's really cute!
Every time we go to the grocery store, she ends up telling a random stranger she loves them. Now who wouldn't love that?

There's much more that I love about her but there isn't a blog big enough for that. On her birthday we woke her and sang happy birthday with a Cinderella Cake. Of course she was allowed to have cake for breakfast and then we opened presents. Dad got her a potty (which is really a gift for me) and I got her "THe Squeakal". She is obsessed with the Chipmunks.
Later that day Brinlee came over and they blew bubbles and drew on the sidewalk.

After that we took all the grandparents for pizza at Chucky Cheese. Maddie had a super fun time!

My sister Kellie took these beautiful pictures of Maddie for her birthday. I LOVE them!

Happy Birthday Madeline! I love you!

Happy Birthday to me!

2010-05-02T16:58:00.001-07:00

April brings a lot of birthdays for my family. My Mom's birthday is on the 5th, mine is on the 13th and Maddie's in on the 22nd. This year for my birthday, my husband planned a girly sleepover for me! I had so much fun. My sister baked me a cake that looked like the Eiffel Tower. It was amazing. My friend Tracy brought her new little baby. He's so cute!

I realize turning 25 doesn't seem like a big deal to most, and I swear everyone tries to big fish me by saying "That's nothing wait until you turn 30!" But I am having a hard time turning 25. I am the youngest of three girls and am referred to as the baby. Well, you're not really a baby if you are 25 and have a 2-year-old. So....instead I plan to focus on the positive. Here is what I have learned in my 25 years.
Heavenly Father Loves Me
I have a great husband and daughter
Christ suffered to save me
Life is hard, but worth it!
I love being happy and positive
So Happy Birthday Kamie. You are a great person!

Easter and Park City

2010-04-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

We had a very fun Easter! Maddie got a new dress from Nana, a couple of Easter baskets from Grandma Janet and G & G Koster. We got her some new sandals and a book.

Later that day my sisters, mom and I went up to Park City for my mom's b-day. It was a fun over-nighter! We stayed in the best hotel. The next day we went shopping and I found two GREAT deals. #1 a pair of sexy brown stiletto hills originally $130 I got them from $25. #2 a trench coat from Banana Republic also for $25. I hope we get the chance to go again!

Dating and St. Patty's Day

2010-04-25T08:57:00.000-07:00

For march our dates were "One short day in the Emerald City" and "Over the rainbow blue birds fly". I also threw a St. Patty's Day party. It was sooo much fun!

Nate's date was One short day. I came home from work to find a yellow brick road and ruby red slippers. I had to say there's no husband like nate three times before he let me in. He made green quiche and we had green apple soda. It was so much fun. If you don't know my husbands favorite musical is Wicked. Hopefully one day he will be able to see it.

For my date we went up to Logan and ate at the Blue bird. We also did a session in the Logan temple and then had rainbow icecream at Grosners. It was a fun day!

For my St. Patty's Day party I made lots of games for Maddie and Brinlee. I even made then step in weird green things. I'm not sure they enjoyed but I did LOL !!!

Date night and bike riding!

2010-03-14T20:54:00.000-07:00

For this Valentine's Day my sister Kellie showed me a great website Love Actually which I found the best gift for Nate. Nate and I are doing the Date of the Month Club. Because I think this is such a great idea for couples to have more fun, I will be blogging about the dates! For February the dates were Romancing the alleys: we went bowling while Nate helped me study for my midterm (you gotta have fun when you can).

We also did Nate and Kamie's Pizzeria: Nate and I had our own Italian restaurant and then we got to enjoy what we made. It was so much fun.

Secondly, my dad and I went for an awesome bike ride on legacy trail. I would defiantly recommend it. The triathlon in just around the corner.

Happy Spring Break!!

Valentine's Day!

2010-03-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

I am a little behind on blogging so here's some photo's from Valentine's Day. Nate and I went up to Lava Hot Springs with my sister Kellie and her husband Ryan. We had so much fun! I would recommend going up to Lava during the winter. The hot pots are so steamy and it's very romantic.

When we got back Maddie and I made sugar cookies and I did her hair really cute.

Halfway through Maddie got tired and took a nap on the kitchen rug.

After we baked them, I let her sit in the high chair and go nuts with the frosting. This is what I found later.

Nathan's Bakin':Buttermilk Brownies!

2010-02-27T09:32:00.000-08:00

Kamie and I made brownies from scratch and decided to make our own recipe. We dyed them red for Valentines Day! I'm not sure I could duplicate the recipe but either way they were awesome!

Yet another?

2010-02-21T14:50:00.001-08:00

Really I got the idea from my sister....just out our new blog www.inourwildestdreams.blogspot.com

Big Girl Bed

2010-02-19T17:20:00.000-08:00

After moving into my mom's basement apartment, Nate and I decided to get rid of the crib and have Maddie sleep in a big girl bed. I guess it also had something to do with the cute bedding I got her for Christmas.
Here's Maddie right before we put her to bed.
We listened for a couple hours to see if she would cry or knock on the door. Finally, around 10 we quietly opened the door and saw her sleeping peacefully under the covers.
The next morning she woke up at her normal time of 8:30 and hasn't had a bit of trouble since. I'm so glad we decided to do this. I really think she was ready. She's a lot happier in this bed. Here's to my big girl.

Read on...

2010-02-02T23:33:00.000-08:00

I've recently posted a lot of different things so keep scrolling!

Union Station and My new blog!

2010-02-02T23:13:00.000-08:00

My very talented sister Kellie took these great picture at Union Station. I requested that she take some pictures for my new movie review blog funfilmsforfamilies.blogspot.com. I hope you enjoy!

Christmas!

2010-02-02T23:06:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was so special. We really didn't get each other much because we wanted to splurge on Maddie. I think it was the first Christmas I really felt the true spirit of Christmas!

Cancun

2010-02-02T21:50:00.001-08:00

I finally got my camera back and I've a lot of updating to do. First off, Nate and I went to Cancun for our 5 year Anniversary!!! It was so much fun. We stayed at The Oasis Palm Beach resort which was about 100 feet from the ocean. It was amazing and reasonably priced. I would recommend it to anyone!

The first day we caught the ferry over to an island off the coast of Cancun called Isla Mugeras. We did a little shopping and got some great pictures!

The next day we went to this awesome water park and went down waterslides we wouldn't dare normally.

Later we swam with the dolphins. I have to say it was the best part of our trip.

We loved the resort! It's so nice that all the food is included. I can't wait to go back. Here's to another 5 years honey! I love you!

Time for Change

2010-01-08T20:05:00.000-08:00

Although a lot is going on in our lives right now I will try to still post some pictures and keep up my blog. Here's a quick update:

Nate:Nate is in his first real semester for the Clinical Lab Science program and he LOVES it. I haven't seen him this happy in a long time. It's nice to see him proud of himself and of course that makes me sooooooo proud. He get to work in the lab this semester as well as learn phlebotomy. He can't wait. I think he might be part vampire because he said the other day that he loves blood. Should I be worried?

Maddie: Maddie is very sad to be leaving her best friend Brinlee. She has enjoy the bonding time they have spent together (which was mainly running around naked after bath time lol). But I think she has a positive outlook for living with Nana. She is definitely a toddler. I think I hear about 200 "No"s a day. She also loves Nursery and all the new friends she makes every week at church.

Kamie: It's very exciting to be going to school again. I seriously LOVE my classes. One class I am taking is Media writing for which I have to blog for (o break my arm). So if you would like to check out my new blog it's www.funfilmsforfamilies.blogspot.com I'm also teaching a children's Musical Theatre class which I also LOVE. Life is busy but it's so much fun.

Here are our recent family photos taken at the capital. Enjoy :)

In response to the last....

2009-12-22T18:58:00.000-08:00

In response to the last post I wanted to clarify which song was for who.

Nate:Of course I would put a BNL song for you. We flew all the way to Chicago just to see them. They're an amazing group and you really taught me to appreciate them. Thank-you! They are such a talented group.

Mom:Nothing but the best for you which of course is Barbara! I remember watching yentl when I was a kid and thinking about what an amazing actress she was. The same rings true today. You gave me my love for musical theatre.

Dad:Two things remind me of you....Old Spice and drumming on the steering wheel. Of course the song you would drum to would be Chicago. I think it helped me understand what kind of person my dad is. I still love Chicago.

Kellie: I'll draw you a picture.....Ford Probe, Main Street in Roy(on our way to get slurpees of course) and CAKE playing the on the radio. I always admired you growing up but I remember wanting to drive for the first time when this moment occurred.

Kenzie: Only you and I understand corny songs like this. Also only you and I cry about sappy moments in movies like this. I'm glad that when I'm crying in a movie and feel like an idiot.....I can always look over and know I'm not the only one with teary eyes.

Melissa Clark:Baby it's cold outside but this version (from Elf) reminds me of you. You are the only person I know that watched Elf and Nightmare before Christmas about once a week. It's really cute! The best moms are always the ones who really enjoy life and don't forget what's important to them!!

Kerianne:Music is really important to me. I feel like if someone hates the music I love we can't be friends. You and I have very similar taste in music and I think that's why we are such good friends. I remember when I asked you to burn the Colbie Calliat CD...was when I decided that you and I were more than just co-workers.

Darcie:Who could forget dressing up like whores to lady marm? You are the only person who I can really let me guard down and make an absolute fool of myself with. By the way where is that video?

Claire:Remember when you gave me the Gavin Degraw CD for the first time? You said he was going to be big and it's very true. You have introduced me to a lot of new music I know cherish!!! The wedding CD's you made me are still my favorite things to listen to.

Thanks to all for playing the game.

Back by popular demand!

2009-11-30T23:01:00.000-08:00

Apparently my blog music meant a little something to a lot of people so I have a new challenge for all you bloggers. In my new playlist I have included songs that reminded me of certain people. If I tag you, you must comment and guess which song represents you. Good luck Nate, Mom, Dad, Kellie, Kenzie, Melissa Clark, Kerianne, Darcie and Claire.

Wow! What a change.

2009-11-30T21:59:00.000-08:00

Nate and I ended up moving a lot quickier than we thought possible. We are now staying with my sister Kenzie and brother-in-law Brad. They are very kind to let us stay here and we are very grateful for it especially since Brad was recently laid-off from his job. But this week was filled with wonderful things I want to remember. First thing...my mom gave me my christmas present early and we went to see David Archuleta!!!!! O my word it was so great!
For Thanksgiving this year we went to my mother-in-laws house and had such a wonderful time. I really enjoy spending time with my in-laws. I feel bad that a lot of people don't like theirs. Maddie had such a great time too! That night looking through the ads I saw a great deal on a labtop for $198.00 Nate is quiting soon and we will no longer have access to a computer so we decided to shoot for this one. I really wanted to stake out the place so we went to Walmart around 8:30p.m. Thanksgiving night and there was already people (not lining up but waiting) there for the labtops. We asked one of the guys how many there were and he said 12. After counting I decided to stay and wait for this great deal. Well..........after 10 hours of waiting in line, 2 cups of hot chocolate, 6 trips to the bathroom, 3 maganizes from the shelf and bonding with 11 other stangers..... I got it! Wow....I've never even went to a store on black friday before. It was so crazy. I imagine the end of the world being a lot like that. Any way.....here's to a happy holiday!

My daughter is so spunky!

2009-11-17T21:46:00.000-08:00

I know as a parent you required to love their kids. But I seriously LOVE my daughter. How can you look at these pictures and not love her? She has so much energy and spunk. When I was in high school I went through this phase of always having my mouth open in pictures. It's funny the things kids pick up from you. Any way...enjoy my entertaining daughter LOL!!

It's begining to look a lot.....

2009-11-17T21:27:00.000-08:00

Normally I have to admit that Christmas isn't a very exciting holiday for us. Since both Nate and my parents are divorced, it can be stressful trying to make sure ALL the grandparents get their fill. But this year..........I'm actually EXCITED!!! This is really big for. I really don't like this holiday so the fact that I'm getting butterflies in my stomach thinking about waiting for "santa" is great. This Saturday my sister Kellie, my brother-in-law Ryan, Maddie and I went down to Thanksgiving point to look at awesome gingerbread houses. The detail that went into making these is extraordinary. Here's some pictures from our adventures.

Going back to school

2009-11-02T18:20:00.001-08:00

I love this picture of my cute little pumpkin. She really likes carrying around a purse. Well after a lot of praying and wondering I've finally made a decision about what I'm going to do with my life. Nate and I decided to put our house up for sale and have me stay home for as long as I can. I'm also going to school in January and will finish my degree in Communication PR and advertising in December 2011. We're hoping this will all work out so I am very optimistic about the future and I'm grateful for all the people who support me in this decision. Here's to the future!

Happy Halloween

2009-10-26T20:18:00.001-07:00

The Batty Barnes Bash was so much fun! Since I've done everything for Halloween already I kind of feel like October should be over. Anyway the party was so much fun! We had lots of great food but the cake was the best by far (which my sister Kenzie made).

The decorations were brought to us by my sister Kellie and her great ideas.

Nate went as a Pimp, I as his employee and Maddie was a hippie.

The house looked very spooky.

Thanks to everyone who came :)

The next day was the pumpkin carving contest at my dad and Debbie's. We had to much fun. At dinner Maddie sat in a big chair and ate! I can't believe how big she is!

Kellie did a creepy skeleton

Ryan did a cute (but manly) kitty cat jack-o-lantern
Jackie did a bleeding pirate

Jared did a vampire

Corey of course did a his usual :kid" jack-o-lantern

Brad did a scary Jason mask pumpkin

Kenzie did Davey Jones from Pirates of the Caribbean

Nate carved a peek-a-boo pumpkin

I did Cinderella's pumpkin carriage.

It's nice to win but I wish I didn't. I never feel good if I win and I always think someone else deserved it more than me. Still we had so much fun. It's nice to get together with my siblings and have fun.
Here's our family after the contest.

Fall Fun Days!

2009-10-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a busy weekend. On Friday my cousin Melissa and I went to Gardener Village. It was SO much fun! This was my first time going and I will be going again. I loved all the cute little shops and stores. My favorite by far was the candy store. Here's some photo's of our travels.

Then on Saturday my family all headed down the Thanksgiving Point (which I had also never been). I was so much fun. First we went to a giant pumpkin weighing then off to Cornbelly's which is like a Fall Theme park. We went on a hay ride, went through a corn maze, watched pig races, went through a haunted lizard and bouced on these giant ballons. O my word! I love it. I felt more like it was for me and not Maddie. She acutally fell asleep right as we walked into Cornbelly's. O the irony! I'm sad that Nate didn't get to go but I am so thankful to my family for helping me out with Maddie (espeically my brother-in-law Ryan). Here are some photo's of the day. Notice how there aren't any of Maddie at Cornbelly's?

The Front Room is coming along well.

2009-10-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

The front room is almost finished and I am so happy because my halloween party is coming up soon. I found lots of my inspiration from paint colors at home depot and HG TV. Here's what it looks like so far.

I'm hoping to get the tile finished this week, as well as the trim. I'll post some pictures of the finished product.

On a sadder note I recently lost my job of 3 years. I will miss the friendships I have made there but am very excited that I get to be a stay at home mom (my real dream in life). Now I get to spend all my time with this great girl!

I feel pretty lucky!

My newest project

2009-09-13T15:21:00.001-07:00

I told myself I wasn't going to start a new house project until the master bath was done but I really can't help myself. Plus, I can do most of the work without even bothering Nate. So here's the plan........ I'm really looking for a cap cod style living room. Almost as if you could find my living room inside a beach house on mystic seaport. The color scheme is going to be a pale blue (wave crest) cream (irrish coffee) and light green and purple as accents. Here's a picture of what the finish product will be.

Here's what my living room started out as

Really it's not that bad...but it's not really my style. I don't like the look of the rustic trim and the fire place was too much. So the first thing I did was paint the fire place white.

I think it will look better with the blue. So this week I am going to be priming and painting lots and lots. I'll keep you updated.

As for the rest of us we are doing fine. Nate is doing sooooo well in his classes so far and Maddie is as curious as ever. Here's a picture of her enjoying some yogurt while incorporating her playtime.

It's been quite a while!

2009-08-24T18:04:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that summer is basically over and Nate starts school tomorrow. This summer has CRUISED by. I've posted a picture from the last wedding I did because I was mighty proud of it. I wish the pictures would do it justice. After we finished the triathlon my family headed up to Preston for our usual "Koster Kamp-out". This past weekend I got surgery (again) and am doing a lot better already. In a way I am happy that things will settle down a little and we can get back on a schedule. Here are some pictures of my summer adventures! Enjoy!

The 4th of July

2009-07-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

This 4th of July was a lot of fun! Maddie was actually old enough to realize what was going on and I think she had a fun day. The day started at 6:00 a.m. when Brad, Kenzie, Brinlee, Maddie and me did the Riverdale 5K.

After we went to Nana Lori's house for breakfast followed by swimming and lunch in the park. Maddie looked to big that day when Aunt Kellie did her hair in pig tails.

Maddie enjoyed quite a bit of sugar that day and was wired at about 5:00p.m.

Nate had the work that day but was able to have dinner with us and light some fireworks.

As the day went on she had what I like to call a "sugar crash" and went to bed at about 7:00p.m. All in all we had a great day!

Summer Fun!

2009-07-05T21:51:00.000-07:00

My Camera was broken for a couple weeks and so I wasn't able to post a lot of picture I've taken. This summer has been a lot of fun. Between Brinlee staying having a sleep-over while her Daddy was in the hospital to A LOT of birthday parties we've kept quite busy. Here's some photos of our fun. Enjoy!

Koster Family Photo Shoot Part 2

2009-06-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

Koster Family Photos

2009-06-17T19:48:00.000-07:00

This is our photo shoot in memory grove. I really think they turned out well.

Nathans bakin' Rachel Rays' Lamb and Couscous

2009-06-02T18:20:00.000-07:00

This dish was very easy to make. Kamie said she liked the lamb more than beef! The lamb was really delicious, very tender and had a rich savory flavor. I wish we had more chops the lamb really was the best part of the meal. The couscous was a little flavorless. If i were to make this meal again I would add a boulion cube to the chicken broth. I also would probably leave out the mint. We didn't mind the mint in the couscous because it was a faint flavor. All in all a good meal!

Swimming!

2009-05-22T21:38:00.001-07:00

This week Kenzie and I went to the Clearfield Aquatic Center and took our babies swimming for the first time! It was so much fun. They really seemed to enjoy it, but Maddie kept getting really cold. I tried to distracted her and swim her in a circle, but I think because of her lack of fat she can't retain heat that well. Still, we had a lot of fun.

On another note, Kenzie and I have doing the Layton Triathlon on August 1st. In the meantime we have been training everyday. The race in the mini spirit rely which is 250m swim, 5.5 mile bike ride, and 1.5 mile run. I know it's going to be hard but what an accomplishment. So power on!

Maddie's 1st birthday party

2009-05-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

Maddie's birthday was so much fun......even for her. We held it at my mom's house because of bad weather. Aunt Kellie bought special bows for Maddie's hair. I made a cake for everyone to enjoy and Aunt Kenzie made a special cake for Maddie. We had over 30 people there! It was crazy, but we are so thankful for all the people who love her and support her.

Maddie's Cake

2009-04-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

Easter and my birthday

2009-04-13T17:19:00.001-07:00

On Sunday Nate, Maddie and I went for a hike in Adams Canyon. It was a beautiful day for a hike! We really enojyed our time and I think Maddie did was well.

That night Nate and I headed up to Park City for my birthday. The weather was perfect and we really enjoyed ourselves...meanwhile Maddie spent the night at Aunt Kenzie's. The next day we excepted our challegne of a picture scavenger hunt. We need 10 pictures of random things....Here they are.
#1 A picture of people taking a really big bite

#2 A piece of Contemporary Art

#3 Twins

#4 A couple kissing

#5 An Eiffel Tower

#6 A blue whale

#7 An old couple dancing

#8 A Bum

#9 A picture of Robert Redford

#10 A brother and sister holding hands

If you've never done a picture scavenger hunt, we highly recommend it. We just want to thank all of the random strangers (and friends) that participated.

Block obession

2009-04-09T20:42:00.000-07:00

I really wish I could blame Kerianne for my new obession of making these blocks, but I really only have myself to blame. I love them! This first one doubles for both Valentine's and St. Patty's Day

The "Barnes" is the first I made....and the Summer one will soon double as Spring.
Kenzie and Kellie have now done there last name's as well.....they have all turned out pretty cute.

This is a funny video of Maddie Bath time (G Rated). Sorry I could get the picture to turn :(

2009-04-01T07:38:00.000-07:00

New free blog templates.

2009-03-30T15:12:00.000-07:00

There's a new look to my blog thanks to http://www.leeloublogs.blogspot.com. Last night as I tried to talk myself into going to bed at a reasonable hour, I found this great website with free templates. Check it out!

I can't believe it!

2009-03-27T22:09:00.000-07:00

So Kenzie and I did some practice cakes for Maddie's upcoming birthday and it hit me. My daughter is going to be 1 year old! How can it be. I remember my parents talking about how fast time flies but I never really believed them. I guess somewhere between the whirl wind of getting married and having my baby I feel like I have grown up a lot. I can't believe how much I love Maddie and Nate. My world really does revolve around them, but in a good way. Here are some pictures of potential cakes

When Maddie was a baby we would always wrap her up and say she looks like a caterpillar. That's why I am doing a theme for her party of butterfiles. I hope to write a poem about my sweet caterpillar one day become the beautiful, confident butterfly she is destine to be. I know it's sound silly but I'm cheesy like that.

Our Trip to the Aqarium!

2009-03-14T21:50:00.000-07:00

This week Kenzie, Brinlee, My mom, Maddie and I went to the aquarium

Isn't this such a cute picture of then riding the snail?

Look it's Tom and Huck.

I really think they enjoyed it.

2009-03-03T21:27:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Valentine's Day

2009-02-22T20:59:00.000-08:00

I feel really lucky this year to be able to do exactly what I wanted to on Valentine's Day.....Spend time with my family. I got Maddie a really cute dress so of course I have to post pictures of my cute babe. I remember when I was single and Emily and I would mope about how Valentine's Day was really Single's Awareness Day (SAD). I have to say that this was been the best Valentine's Day ever. It really is nice to be on the other side of it.

Adventures in baby land!!

2009-02-04T11:23:00.000-08:00

I have the privilege of watching my beautiful niece Brinlee, while Brad and Kenzie go on vacation to Las Vegas. I am already having so much fun. It is such a wonderful blessing to have her stay with us. We love it. I know Maddie really enjoys it, because it's nice to have someone her size to play with. Once both Maddie and Brinlee were changed, feed and happy, I dressed them in cute outfits. Here are some of our pictures. Hope you enjoy.

2008 Year end summary

2009-01-27T21:15:00.000-08:00

I've recently noticed alot of bloggers writing a year end summary......So to steal the idea I think I'll complete one myself.

January 2008 Nate and I slowly prepared for the coming of our child.

February I was put on bed rest for six weeks (ironically one week before I delivered my doctor let me go back to work)

March was filled with showers from lots of friends and family which we are so grateful for.

April 13th I turned 23 and felt like I was going to pop any minute!

April 22 our wonderful daughter Madeline Lori Barnes was born!
A couple of days later she was taken to the NICU because of an infection in her lungs.

May 1st she was released from the hospital but still had a few hurdles to overcome.

By June Maddie was turning over, giggling, noticing her hands and cooing.
Nate and I were sleepless, exhausted and overjoyed to be parents!

June 19th Nate celebrated his 27th birthday by #1 admitting that he's balding #2 Excepting the fact that he's balding #3 Eating lots of chocolates

July first my beautiful niece Brinlee Cecilia Lythgoe was born! She was an answer to a lot of people's prayers

August we took our first vacation as a family and realized it isn't going to be as easy as we thought.

September Maddie language skills are really improving! I also got promoted to be a Personal Banker.

October My sister Kellie gets engaged to a wonderful man Ryan (who we all love) and plans to get married Jan. 16th! We also had our annual Barnes Monster Mash which was a hit.

November we celebrated thanksgiving with the Koster Family this year. It was very nice to see all of my family. Maddie spoke her first word on November 23rd "Dad" and her first tooth appeared this month.

December we celebrate our first Christmas with Maddie. She is such a joy in our life it really feels like our real Christmas present was her.

This year was filled with a lot of learning experiences for our family. Nate and I are very grateful for all of the support we have of our Friends and Family. We are so excited to see what this year will bring.

Barnes Look-alike Meter

2009-01-23T21:08:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Family tree - Genealogy - Celebrity - Collage - Morph

Maddie crawling!

2009-01-21T16:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T11:12:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say how thankful I am to start this year with a loving husband, beautiful baby, and supportive family. Last night as Nate and I spent time with fun friends, it made me realize how lucky we are to have such wonderful people in our lives. I hope all of you set a New Years resolution to spend more time with the people who mean the most to you. Happy 2009!!!!

This is our 5th Christmas Together!

2008-12-21T17:01:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that Nate and I have spent 5 Christmases together! I thought I would post some picture of Christmas Past. After which I will post Christmas present! Merry Christmas everyone!!!!

She Loves Me!

2008-11-26T06:45:00.000-08:00

After a long rehearsal last night (11:30 to be exact) we now are ready to open. The show will start at 7:00 at The Village Green 435 S State St Clearfield, UT 84015 (Behind Baskin Robbins). It will run November 28th through December 20th Friday and Staurday nights. Tickets are $12.00 per person. A little about the Show............The show started out as a play called "Shop around the corner" and then was adapted to the musical "She love me". After being revived on broadway in 1993 the show was then adapted to the movie "You got mail". It's a wonderful love story and helps bring in the Christmas spirit. Sally and Ryan Paskins play the leads, both of which are very talented people. Come see Nate, Maddie and myself in this funny, light-hearted show opening Friday!!

Babies

2008-11-23T20:56:00.000-08:00

I will learn how to blog!

2008-11-23T19:18:00.000-08:00

This is my first attempt to start blogging. We will see how it goes.