Luke, Niki, and Baby Claire

Pumpkin Patch and Halloween

2012-01-20T13:43:00.001-07:00

A week before Halloween we took a trip with the Batchelor's and went to the pumpkin patch. Claire had a blast running around the pumpkin maze, pulling the wagons, and riding in the homemade train. I loved her outfit that day. Her tight pants totally make the outfit. She keeps putting her hands up like that because on Diego, "Click the camera," says to take a picture, put your hands up to your face and say, "click!" So she does!

Halloween! As you can see it was a little difficult getting Claire to cooperate taking her Halloween Pics. She went as a Fairy/Princess. Originally she was going to be a Hershey Kiss but, the hat wouldn't fit over her big noggin. lol Sooo we scrounged around for what we had in her play closet. And this is what we came up with... I wished I got a pictures of her actually tick or treating because she was sooo cute. Luke and I went with her and we walked around the whole neighborhood. (in hind sight we should have taken a stroller) Anyways, I went up to each door with her and she would just stand there and stare at the people until they gave her candy. By the end of the night she would say, "trick-a-meeee," about half down the drive way!

Claire's Birthday Weekend!

2011-09-29T20:14:00.008-07:00

Celebrating Claire's Birthday at Marmie and Popies House with all her cousins, aunts, uncles, and Grandparents on the Taylor side!
I am not sure where Claire picked up her hand and face poses but, its pretty funny. She had a blast opening up presents and was really excited to receive her Dora Doll, Backpack, Elmo, and her little vacuum (which scared her at first) and broom cleaning set. Claire now either takes dora or elmo to bed with her and gets out her cleaning stuff every time i do. =)

Barbie Cake! Yes Mommy Made the Barbie cake and yes she made the frosting from scratch. Are you impressed yet??

Singing Happy Birthday.....

Great Grandma Clawson made this cute pillow case for Claire. She picked it out loves her froggy's!

Continuing our Birthday fun at the Peterson house for the combined Taylor and Peterson Birthday party! Claire shares her birthday month with cousin Samantha and Uncle Mark!

The only pic we could get of them looking at the camera together. haha

Here is claire with her mad picture skills opening up presents! She loved her dry erase board crayons, clothes, and pictures of the silly princesses!

33rd Birthday

1st Birthday

2nd Birthday

Happy 2nd Birthday Baby Claire!

2011-09-19T14:53:00.003-07:00

(Caution Very Long Post- Keep scrolling down to see pics)

Happy birthday my love! Its was just 2 years ago when we held you in our arms for the first time. I remember your little eyes looking up at me and knowing me.Thank you for entering in our lives and into our family. You have made our lives so much richer and it has been a pleasure being your Mommy and Daddy.

Clarie's updates- (Doc appointment with stats coming soon....)

1. Potty Training- Claire decided she wanted to learn how to use the potty about 6 weeks ago. She got up from the dinner table, grabbed her diaper, yelled "POOP!" And then ran to the pink potty. She pooped in the pink potty her first time ever. We couldn't have been more proud! At this time she is still using the little pink potty and going on it whenever she feels the urge. Next step- Big girl panties.

2. I swear she is learning 10 new words a day! She will say a word out of no where. I really love her little voice and cute lisp. Even though her words are becoming more clear, I love that fact that we have our own mama and daughter communication.
My new favorite Claire words are: Ducky- "Gucky", Shoe- "Foo", I love you- "Two", "Go outside", "Sit down", "Bubbles", M&M- "EmEm," "Help! Help!" "Wait, wait wait!" "Go popies house?"
She is starting to learn names, right now she knows- Cami, Marmie, Popi, Stefani- "Stepami",
Natalie- "Ollie", Matt, Andee- "Ani", Hannah, Grandpa- "Papa",

3. Claire knows the alphabet to each letter and doing good on the sounds, right now we are learning the ABC song. She also loves to count to 10 in English and in Spanish!!! -Thank you Dora!
4. We are also working on colors and shape- Her favorites are- Pink, Green- "Geen", Red, white, blue-"Boo", Heart, diamond, circle.

4. Claire loves to sing and dance- She will dance to every song that comes up in the car or at home. Her favorite kid songs are: Twinkle, Twinkle, Wheels on the bus, Apples and bananas, Miss Polly, The Moon song, and Pop corn popping, with all of the hand motions....of course!

5. Obsessed is not a strong enough word for her feelings for Dora and Boots, Diego, and Elmo. All of her birthday presents pretty much involved one of those characters. lol She also enjoys back-yardigains.

6. Favorite Movies are- Monsters Inc- "Sinc", The Incredibles, and Tangled.

7. Favorite foods- All Fruits, chicken nuggets, hot dogs, cheese crisp, Chinese food, Italian pasta and pizza, and she lovesssss her snacks- Gold fish-" Go Feesh", Banana- "Nana", and her dots.

Words cannot express how much love we have for this girl.

Claire- Thank you for making me a Mommy and your dad a Daddy. You have an amazing spirit and bright personality, you are kind, sweet, and sensitive, despite you getting your daddy's looks, you are one Gorgeous little girl. =) You love your family, friends, and playing outside. You enjoy nursery, bubbles, throwing the ball, and reading every book in the house! We cant wait to see what a wonderful young lady you will soon be....just take as long as you like getting there.

Love you Claire Bear!

Here is Claire at her 2nd Bday photoshoot with Mommy - I swear she is posing all by herself. haha

Practicing her pageany faces already! Im so proud. LOL

Summer Fun!!!

2011-08-29T23:31:00.000-07:00

So I have a lot of catching up to do! This summer we had a blast!!! Claire had a lot of firsts: her first trip to the beach, first time at Disney Land, and her first time at the Zoo!!! We also had the pleasure of babysitting my sisters Alissa's kids while they cruised Alaska and also got to see Nick, Allison and Andrew when they visited from Utah.

Beach fun!

(These pics along with the zoo's were taken with a disposable camera... I didn't realize i forgot to charge my cameras battery!)

Claire was a little timid running to the water but loved the sand and being outside.

She even loved chasing the seagulls! Or as she calls them "Dee's!" (For birDy's)

Zoo Time!

We got to feed the Giraffes and their slimy black tongues!

Disney Land!!
Claire had a great time! She was so excited about everything and did so well the entire day. She was able to go on many of the rides and we even took her on Pirates of the Caribbean. She got a little freaked out from the mist, but other than that really enjoyed it. We met up with Nick and Allison and switched off going on the big rides. We had so much fun with them and were so glad it worked out that we were able to go.

The random lady that took this pic said it was, and I quote "Perfect."

Claire on the ride home from California. Completely Zonked!

Splash pad fun!!

Claire and cousin Samantha

Claire and cousin Andrew

Appetizer for the Palmer Family! -link

2011-07-25T13:58:00.004-07:00

By {NMT} PHOTOGRAPHY

Claire-isms!!

2011-06-21T16:22:00.003-07:00

Lately Claire has been making us smile and laugh at her cute little self.

Here are some things that she has been doing/Saying:

Some of my Favorites:
Phone- "Goan"
Binky- "Ginky"
Banana- "Nana"
Popie (Grandpa Taylor)- "Bopie"
Green- "keen"
Birdy- "D"
Apple- "Apble"
There is is- "heee hhaaaa"
Baby- "Bebe" (She is obsessed with anything to do with babies)
After her nap i ask her if she is a happy girl- and she says, "Happy, Happy, Happy"
She calls me- Mamma and her Daddy "daaaEEE"
I made a sharp turn in our car and I hear behind me- "Woa-a-woa-a wooooo!"
Sticks her little lips out to say, "Shhhhhh." And puts her finger to your lips.
She is obsessed with Dora and Boots- "Da-Boots"
*I call her my Grabby-Gabby because, there are these little hands that are continuously searching for anything to grab along the counter-top.
*She loves to help sweep, dust, and do the laundry. lol (Lets see how long that lasts)

**We like to watch that show Psych and jump out of our seats to dance to the song on the credits everytime!
*Her current dance moves consists of running, repeated squatting, and twirling in circles.

*She has learned to do summer saults (with my help)
* She loves to show off her muscles by clinching her fists in the air and going "Grrrr"
*She has a pretty smile and a Frowny face.
****Claire knows her alphabets- ABCDEFGHIKLMNOPSTUVYZ
We are still working on these- JQRWX

Baby Andrew My Darling Nephew! (Sneak Peak!)

2011-05-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Easter 2011 Part One!

2011-05-13T11:00:00.003-07:00

Here is Claire looking divine in her Easter Dress! I loved the heart shaped neck line. She also wore her pink pearls that she got in her Easter basket all day long.

Easter Egg Hunt at Marmie and Popies house!! We seriously hid over 500 eggs. Claire caught on quick and took her basket around with her cousin Donovan. All of the older cousins were there too running frantically to get the most eggs.

Miss Kate, showing off her green egg!

These next pics are out of sequence but, the morning goes by getting Claire out of bed Easter Morning and watching her try to find her Easter basket full of goodies!! The Easter Bunny hid it well.

Trying on her Pink Pearls

Oh there it is!!!

Sneak Peak of Adam Stephen!!!

2011-05-09T18:56:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of taking pictures for my long time friend Cori (Frankenfield) Jansings SIL and new nephew!

Adam was so fun to take pictures of even though he would not let me take any pics of him on his belly.LOL That little face of his is priceless.

2010 Family Pitctures!!

2011-03-18T00:36:00.001-07:00

One of my bestest friends took our family pictures. Trisha you are amazing!

Sprikerhoff Wedding Photoshoot!

2011-03-18T00:15:00.001-07:00

I had a great time taking pictures for Sam and Robin! Especially beacuse I had a beautiful talented assistant. Thanks Val!

Catching up with Christmas 2010

2011-03-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

Christmas at the Taylor's!

Claire Bell with her Marmie

Ry, Noah, Andee, Kate, Claire, and Marmie

(Kate and Claire fought over who got to sit on Marmies lap)

Luke and Cami (his sister)

Claire sitting on her new tinker bell chair!

Me and my Babe

Claire and Da-da

(Notice anything poking out of her gums?? She got 3 molars and 2 fangs in for her first set of teeth. )haha

My little Eddie Munster.

Dad...cough I mean Santa after setting up Claire's "Santa Loot"

Andee with her new Bop it Game....Luke still prides in the fact that he has not been beaten.

Josh was pretty good at his Air Guitar and really played the roll of a Rock Star!

Claire Loved her Basket of plastic Fruit.

Will and I have no idea what is on his nose.

Katie-kate with Her Uncle Luke

Da-da taking bear-bear around for a spin in her new Car

Right before all the kids came in to see their Loots from Santa!

Back track to Thanksgiving!

2011-03-17T23:40:00.001-07:00

This year we had Thanksgiving with the Madsen Family!

Notice Claire's fancy little bead socks?? My talented Auntie Sally made them!

She jingle jangles all around the house now. haha

Too bad it doesn't snow in Phoenix. She was sure dressed warm though!

Uncle Matt and Claire Bear

This is me and my new sweet little niece Sammy!

Us, after eating a butt load of turkey.

Samantha Sportin her Turkey look.

Leener Bell and Duffer-do

So we tried for five minutes to get the blank stares off their faces but it wasn't until I started singing Pop-corn popping on an apricot tree when Claire busted up with a huge smile. haha I just love her.

I cant remember what she was laughing at. Although, you have to admit She is one awesome kid. (Last good pic before her teeth arrived. And yes she is 14 months old here.

Auntie Lissa, Me, and Baby Claire

Jill, Matty, and Me!

Hi My Name is Nicole Taylor and Yes I am alive.....

2011-03-07T16:03:00.001-07:00

I have been a terrible blogger! I admit it I haven't even blogged on anybody else's beautiful blogs in MONTHS! I understand if by now everyone has forgotten about the Taylor's but, I want to explain myself and why I have not posted in forever.

#1 We bought a NEW HOUSE!!! Our first official house with our names smack dab on it! I have been waiting to post pictures so I can show everyone what a cool stylish place we have and not post white walls. It was a spec home so we have a lot of work and it is slowly but surely getting done. We got a fantastic low interest rate and bought at a price lower than what it was appraised for! If the IRS would be so kind to give us money back on our taxes this year then we can put in our backyard before summer!

#2 I work from home and am on the computer all day long. haha I know that is the lamest excuse yet.

#3 I am not even going to put being a mom on here as an excuse because everyone else seems to find time to post in their busy days.....oh dang i guess its on the list.

#4 I was in the holiday picture season rush that ended with a Wedding! I seriously took a least 2,000 pics at this wedding and for 3 months edited the crap out of them. haha They turned out wonderfully...I will post a couple. Its amazing what CS5 photoshop can do especially when you start to figure out how to use it. Thank you Jill for the crash course.

#5 I got a new calling as the Secretary in the Primary Presidency!! I have never been more excited to except a calling before. I have only been in our ward for 3 months so its been tough trying to learn all of the kids names let a lone their parents names. haha I love the ladies I work with, they are just so fun.
......I have to add on here that Luke got called to be in the YM's as an advisor Varisity Coach (over scouting). I think it is so funny how Luke hated scouts growing up but, Heavenly Father has kept him in it for the past 3 years as a scout leader.....(He finds a way)

#6 Trying to find sometime to go to the GYM let alone spend a moment in time with my husband.

Soon to come......PICTURES!!!!

Meet the Flinstones! HaLloWeeN 2010

2010-11-01T22:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!!!!

I stayed up late every night this week sewing. I think our costumes turned out quite lovely....for the Flinstones! Luke was a great sport and wore his man-dress (although he only would wear it to the ward party.) He made a pretty hot Fred if you ask me. =) So I was Wilma, Claire was Pebbles and our niece Hannah was Betty!

We trunk-or-treated the Sat. before at a school party in the afternoon and then again later at our ward party!

My 4yr old nephew Gavin was a Zombie Football Player- He scared the crap out of all the little girls! Including my little Pebbles.

And my 4yr old niece Kate was a fairy princess.

Claire walked hand in hand with us the whole time. She was so adorable!

look who is...

2010-10-31T23:51:00.002-07:00

Walking!!!!!

My toothless little girl started walking on Oct. 25th at 13 months! Daddy came home for lunch and she walked for him for the first time. So cute! Although she has figured out how to take steps she still prefers crawling. After all she is a little speedster on her knees!

One year stats:

Weighed in at 21 lbs

30 1/4 inch long

I cant remember the head cir, but it did grow.

Her Pediatrician didn't give me the percentiles exactly but showed me on the chart where she was at

Very tall, weight is starting to catch up with her, and her head size is a little bigger. haha

Breathing/Lung update:

Dr. Broome ordered another chest x-ray. He is still very worried about how Claire breathes. He stated that he sees babies all day long and none of them breath the way she does. She almost looks like she is hyperventilating. Very rapid breaths. Her stomach and ribs contract with each breath. At this last appointment he could hear flem in her lungs. (Keep in mind Claire is happy, growing, and very active. In no way does anything seem to slow her down. So its really weird for us to think anything is wrong.) Any ways she also had her blood work done this week with her 12m shots. Poor girl.

The blood work came back normal and her chest Xray came back and she is not fully diagnosed yet but, the nurse seems to think she has R.A.D. Reactive Airway Disease. Or some kind of chronic lung disease.

Needless to say I am not looking forward to flu and cold season with her. I am not ready for another dose of Bronchiolitis.

Claire- You are such a delight! Everyone you meet fall in love with you instantly. You have such a sweet nature and continue to impress us everyday. You love to dance, sing twinkle twinkle little star, clap your hands, wave, give a pretty smile, click your tongue, feed yourself, play with Mable and take baths. You smile easily and are genuinely a happy girl. You take 2 naps a day and love to sleep with your bear and binky. I could watch you all day long, you are so fascinating. Watching you learn and grow gives me the warm fuzzies. =) I love you, we love you, forever and always my sweet chinchilla.

Samantha Ann Peterson!

2010-10-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world baby girl!

Isn't my niece gorgeous???!!!!!

Sammy baby was born on 9-10-10

Claire is so lucky to have a cousin one year apart from her. They will have the best of time!!!!!!

My Tinkerbell has turned ONE!!!

2010-09-25T22:05:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday My Darling Little One!

I was probably way more excited about your first birthday party than anyone. I have thrown many parties for people. But I must say this was one of the hardest and most tiring. I wanted it to be perfect (as perfect for a one year old could be). It turned out wonderful! Thank you to all of the family and friends who traveled far to be at Claire's party. You all truly made it special. We know how far of a drive it is for my east-siders.

Thank you for making that effort to come.

(Who was there: Grandpa and Grandma, Uncle Matt, Marmie and Popie, Aunt Natalie, cousins rylee and jaxon, Aunt Cami and Uncle Mark-Cousins Michael, Gavin, kate, Aunt Stefani and Uncle Troy- Cousins Andee, Noah, Will, Hannah, Josh- friend Jenna, Papa and Ginny- daughter and grand daughter, Aunt Linda and Uncle Tom, Aunt Diane and Erblina, Aunt Sonja- 2nd cousins Jacob, KJ, and Isaac, Friends Valerie and Chris, Friends James, Tiana, Justin and Sariah) I hope I got everyone!

Well, the party started off with swimming, BBQ, then we opened presents, watched a video that Hannah and Will made, and literally dove into some cake! I am going to try and put on the dvd that they made on here. It was so stinking cute. Will took all of the fuzzy pictures of claire and Hannah created the dvd, she also added in some other random pictures to help fill in the time. haha

I have the best nieces and nephews and Claire has the best cousins!!!!

I will let the pictures tell the story.

Opening up gifts with all 15 kids around presented a challenge, as they all were very eager and very willing to help her out!

Claire swarmed by her oh so helpful cousins and friends!

This is she gazing at her gifts before we started opening them.

Hannah brought her friend Jenna to the party, she was so sweet to bring Claire a gift.

A princess purse with a dog that goes in it!

Claire got a little perplexed when we would open up a gift, show it to her, and then put it down to open another. She was like, "Hhheyyy, I was playing with that!"

Marmie and Popie gave Claire this cool Puppy, you plug it into the computer and enter in her name, favorite, animal, toys, colors, songs, etc. and it sings back and talks to her personally!

I tried to put Claire down to open a gift, but she took off after the already opened toys! SO, I had to hold her. By the end of the presents she started taking out the tissue...with a little help from others. lol

Peek-a-Boo with Will!

Luke and I bought her this radio flyer wagon, rider, and stroller in one! She was so cute with it. Sits on it perfectly as i push her around the house.

It has also helped her to balance while walking. She loves to push it all by herself.

Cake time!!! Silly mommy forgot the flash!

The happy birthday song!

After Claire (me) blew out the candles she got right in with her hands, stopped.....and questioned the really pretty oooey gooey stuff. She loves textures and squashing stuff between her fingers, so it didn't surprise me that it took her a second to take a bite.

She just stared at her hands so I finally put her hand to her mouth to have a lick.

Claire got one finger in there and decided it tasted too good to take it out!

Then with a smile of enjoyment.......

She went face first, swan dive!!!

Again and again!!! haha She was soooo funny!

I should have taken more pictures of everyone who was there! Rrrrggg.

Below Is Auntie Cami, Auntie Nati, and Marmie!!

She couldn't let her mouth and fingers have all the fun, her toes needed to get in on the action too!!!!

Grandma, Grandpa, and Uncle Matt

I think its plain to see where/who Claire gets her Ears from???

Some photo pics with Dad. Two peas in a pod if you ask me!

No daddy! No kisses in public!!!!

Claire's 1st Bday Pics

2010-09-13T17:54:00.000-07:00

I took Claire's First Birthday pics last week. And I just loved how they turned out. Mommy's little model. We are just so excited for her. I will do an official B-Day post on the 19th, her acutal big day!!!!

Moments like these....

2010-08-29T23:07:00.000-07:00

Wake up with Bed Head? I do!

11 months no teeth.....but I loooove my food! Look at that bite!!!

I'm too big for my infant car-seat. Mommy and Daddy bought me my new convertible car-seat!

I learned to climb the stairs all by myself! Grandma and Dad stood behind just in case.

This is me and my mom and Great Great Grandma Pitts!

Reflection pool in front of the SLC temple!

Mommy and me

The simplest toy, one which even the youngest child can operate, is called a grandparent. ~Sam Levenson

2010-08-29T22:51:00.000-07:00

I love these tiny moments. And so does Claire! She loves loves loves her grandparents.

There once was a girl who fell madly in love with a boy.....

2010-08-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

August 5th-

Has it really been 5 years of marriage?? I cant believe we are here at this time in our lives. What a fun little land mark it is. I feel like we have been through so much together and yet there is still so much to do. I cant imagine spending my life with anybody else. He is the one that I want by my side for Eternity. And now we have a sweet munchkin in our family who has done nothing but bring us closer together. I can see both of us in her and that makes me smile. She is such a funny little thing. We Celebrated our 5th at a Sushi Restaurant called Blue and also enjoyed a couples massage at Massage Envy. Sooooo worth it!

Reflecting back through the past 5 years...

Courting months...
I remember kissing under the dim street lamp. And what seemed like fog all around us. Although it was probably just our heads up in the clouds.

I can also still hear the nervousness in Luke's voice when he told me he loved me and wanted to take care of me.

The first year.....
I remember how excited we were to finally be married and to live together. How it felt like a slumber party every night.

I loved and still love taking your arm. Next to you I feel like a princess.

2nd year.....
Traveling to all of your football games was so fun. I loved traveling with your parents to every game. It was something i looked forward to weekend.

3rd year....
Oh how exciting it was our first year across the country with just the two of us. What an adventure we had.

I still get goose bumps thinking about that first football game there. How thrilling it was to watch you play and to be on a team that let you shine. (what was it 8 TD passes and close to 600 passing yards?)!!!

4th year......
First finding out we were pregnant. Second watching you graduate. Third living in CT with your cousins.

5th year....
We had our beautiful baby girl... Those first months were so hard but I will never forget those moments that made us parents for the first time. Thank you for working 3 jobs to support us.

Looking forward....
Every year brings in such good blessings I cant wait to see whats in store for us! I love you and am still excited to share each and every moment with you.

Sneaky Peaky of Alissa!

2010-08-10T21:36:00.000-07:00

Fireworks at the Wigwam 4th of July Celebration!

2010-07-31T22:43:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th!! We had a small group this year just us, Marmie, Popie, and the Batchelor Clan! We were able to sit right outside on our front lawn and enjoyed the show. Claire jumped when the fireworks shot off but didn't cry at all. She loved watching all the beautiful colors. I love the meaning and traditions of Independence Day. I cant help but think about all those men who fought for our freedom, MY freedom and my child's freedom. It always brings such a powerful feeling as the fireworks shoot off, sounding like gun shots. Thank you to our ancestors who fought and for the men who keep on fighting for our Country.

9 month stats!

2010-07-31T22:24:00.002-07:00

Claire's last doctors visit:

Height- 28 3/4 over 80%

Weight- 17lbs 4oz 25%

Head- 18 in

Current Food Favorites:

Watermelon, bananas, avocados, grapes, crackers, Oreo, yogurt, grilled cheese sandwich, macaroni and cheese, Cheetos's, black beans, spaghetti, and cheese crisp!

She does pretty good with trying new foods, she loves to give us so many facial expressions to show us how much she likes or dislikes something! haha

CC has been feeding herself for the past 3 months. She has great hand eye coordination! Not sure yet if she is a lefty or a righty though,.

Doctors:

In her little life she has already seen, a pulminologist, cardiologist, and had to do a sweat test. Which all seemed pretty pointless because everything always comes back normal. The pediatrician is still worried about her fast breathing although it has improved over the past couple of months.

My hilarious little girl loves to make clicking sounds with her tongue, elephant sounds with her lips, tries to blow air back at me when I blow in her face. She also loves to clap, wave her arms, loves to tough everything and find out what it feels like and how loud of a sound it can make when she hits it. She smiles at everything and everyone! When she gets all excited her eyes get huge, she shrugs her shoulders, makes a funny sound and starts wiggling.

Talking:

Not really talking but for the past 2 months has been saying Momomom mom, And Dadada da, and babab ba for bottle I think. Its so cute when she wakes up she cries in her crib Momomom mom until i come in and get her. I just loves this girl....can you tell?

Crawling:

She is lightening speed on those knees and hands! She loves to explore and has already started getting into everything. She can pull herself up and walk along the couch. She loves to play with her cousins and watch them run around crazy, i just know it wont be long before she joins them!!

Happy girl doesn't even come close to describing Claire!

2010-07-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Claire's 1st Oreo!!!!

2010-07-14T09:50:00.000-07:00

We took a road trip to Utah to see Nick and Allison! Claire got a little restless on the drive back and so we decided it was time for her to partake in the goodness of her first Oreo!!!

This was us trying to clean her up a bit. She wasnt happy about it! haha

Look at this beautiful Gummy Smile!!! Yes not a single tooth at 9 1/2 months!

What she looked like when it was all over! She cracks me up.

Daddy's (a.k.a. Luke) 1st Fathers Day!!!!

2010-07-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

Look How cute they are!!!

I know I am posting this a little late but, I figure better late then never.

Luke thank you for being the Father of our Precious Claire. She sure picked the jack pot of Dads and I am so lucky as to have you be my partner for Eternity.

I can already tell how much in love Claire is with you, Luke. You light up her little face when ever you walk into the room. You can always make her smile and always make her bust up laughing. When she looks at you I know she is thinking..."Oooo its play time!"

Luke's Big Day!

It all started 4 days before Sunday. I originally wanted to send Luke flowers at work because guys never get flowers and I had a friend that got them once and he thought it was pretty cool. But all the flower bouquets just seemed to girly. So I had a "Money Tree" delivered to the house ( because he found out I was sending it to his work and he begged me not to.) Its this really cool braided tree plant thingy that represents good fortune. I got for him to say, "Thanks for Bringing home the bacon!!" Luke really didn't get it, cause he is not a plant guy. But he proudly took it to work and put it on his desk. - Well I thought it was cool.

Anyways, The morning of Father's Day started off with bacon and waffles that I made. Then as we were getting ready for church I asked Luke to help me turn on a video to entertain Claire as I finished getting ready. Luke turned it on and the Father's Day video of Luke and Claire automatically started playing. He loved it. It was a good surprise! I spent the past week putting a collage of pics from the Day Claire was born up until now. I added the songs- A girl like you, Pete Yorn (Luke's and My song) and Hero, Enrique Engleses.( Because he is our hero). Anyways, it turned out rather cute!
Claire and I got Luke season 1 and 2 of flight of the conchords (Luke's request) and also a gift certificate to massage envy!!

We love you Luke and are so proud of you. Thank you for being a wonderful, hands-on, supportive, loving, gifted, tall-dark-handsome, sweet, funny, goofy, best dad ever!!!

Side Steppin'!!!! Claire- 81/2 months

2010-06-18T16:48:00.001-07:00

A little sneaky peaky at Trisha!

2010-06-05T11:52:00.000-07:00

My first Mother's Day!

2010-05-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. ~Rajneesh

I was so excited for this day to come, my first Mother's Day. Oh how wonderful it was! Not only because I am now a Mommy but because I also get to celebrate my daughter and the relationship that we have together. I love her so much and have enjoyed her every minute. I do enjoy the every day Mother duties, feeding, changing, bathing, playing, and teaching. I even think she is adorable when she is wining and crying. Her little faces are priceless. I know that I am so blessed to be a Mother. She is heaven sent from her Heavenly Father chosen to be our little girl for Eternity. And I get to be her Mom. Claire- I vow to be the best Mother as I can be to you. We will have good times and we will have rough times. But never bad times. I will always love you. I look forward to the friendship we will have.

Thank you to our Wonderful Mother's who have taught me to be the mom I want to be. Through your caring, generosity, unconditional love...etc...etc...etc... You both have been wonderful examples and will be hard to beat or even come close too. =)

My Day-

My parents were kind enough to send me flowers for Mother's Day. What a great surprise it was. They were so pretty and I was thrilled to get them. Thank you.

On Sat. night Luke surprised me with getting a babysitter and spoiled me rotten at Flemming's! It was such a nice ritzy restaurant. I loved it. Sooooooo yummy!!! It was nice getting dressed up and not caring about the menu. I had the Fale' Minion and Luke had the New York Strip. This is the kind of place you go once or twice a year. At least with our budget. =)
The Morning of, Luke brought me breakfast in bed! How nice of him to think of that. And to make my favorite french toast. We went to church and I put on my Mother's Day corsage that we made in Activity Days. ( See above pic) After church we went over to my parents house and as soon as we got there they were talking on the phone with Kyle!! Who is on a mission in Canada! He sounded happy and joyful in the work that he is doing. It was a great treat to talk to him and I know my Mom and Dad really enjoyed his phone call.

Thank you to everyone who made this day really special. I cant wait for future Mother's Days with the macaroni necklaces, finger painted pictures, and handmade clay mugs.

Smiles, poopy messes, and crawling!!

2010-05-08T23:22:00.001-07:00

My little Silly Milly!(almost 8 months)

Notice Anything?

I walked by her playing with her toys and noticed something weird on her back when I realized it was poop oozing out I called for Luke to grab the camera!!! Hahaha Everyday, i kid you not we have some kind of massive poopy mess!!

Mommies little Weirdo. I love the butt in the air!

I just laugh at this picture.

I call this the Mogley crawl (jungle book)Toes down, butt up, hands reaching....Almost there...One more kick......Awwww the prize!!!

Little Aunt Jamima....hahaha

Mommies little Pretty baby. i just love her. I just cant get enough!!!

New Baby news!!

2010-04-24T13:30:00.000-07:00

Heavenly Father is sending 2 of Claire's very best friends down from heaven!!!

My Sister Alissa found out that (after 2 boys) she is having a baby girl!!! Woohoo!!! A girl cousin only 1 year, maybe to the day, apart!!

And my sister, from another mother and by marriage, Allison.......found out that she is having a baby!!!! We cant wait to find out what this little peanut is going to be!!!! And they will only be 1 year apart too!!

I'm thrilled to meet these little sweeties and I know they will be the best of cousins with Claire!!!!

HAPPY EASTER!

2010-04-08T10:22:00.001-07:00

Happy 1st Easter Baby Girl!!!

(Claire 6 months)

Dear Claire,

You looked so cute in your Easter dress that Grandma gave you. You had so much fun visiting your Grandma, Grandpa, GiGi, Uncle Matt, Great uncle Mike, Great Aunt Jill, Great Uncle Kevin, and 1st cousin once removed Jorgen on Saturday Easter weekend. We played games, laughed, and enjoyed your sweet little presence. You love to sit up and just watch the people around you. GiGi couldn't get over your funny worried eyebrows you make when you’re trying to figure something out. G and G Madsen bought you Easter Pajamas!

Your Easter Sunday started off listening to the sweet sounds of conference. It continued with getting you all dolled up in your dress and and hair band. You recieved your first Easter basket with all sorts of goodies. And then you joined all of your other cousins in a huge easter egg hunt! Michael, Jaxon, Gavin, Kate, Rylee, Will, Josh, Hannah, Noah, KJ, Jacob, Isaac, Marmie, Popie, Great aunts Sonja, Diana, Great Uncle Marty and Kuame, G and G Taylor, And a whole lot more! We had a yummy dinner and by the end of the day you were so pooped you conked out in the car.

Your mommy loves Easter and conference weekend! Celebrating the resurrection of our Savior reminds us that families truly are forever. We can live again just like our Savior Jesus Christ. Your Heavenly Father loves you and wants you to come to him. No prayer is unheard or unanswered. You were brought here on earth at this time for a reason. We are so glad you are apart of our family and we know this is all part of Gods eternal plan. Please keep the spirit in your life as you grow up and turn to him with anything. Enjoy listening to your prophet as he speaks to you with guidance and love from our Heavenly Father.

~~6 Month Stats!~~

Claire had her six month check up last Monday. She is growing so fast and just getting so long!

• She is 27 inches long

• Weighs 14lbs and 4oz (Yes this is still super light but we did gain weight!) My sister Cami calls her my little Ethiopian baby. LOL

• In the 10th percentile for weight. Yikes!

• 75th percentile for height

• She received 2 shots and one oral. (is it weird that i want to keep her little Barbie Band-Aids?)

• I think her head was 17in CM

• Her hearing, eyesight, and hand eye coordination is amazing!

• Daddy can always get her laughing by tickling her tummy or neck with his unshaved scruff.

• She is taking 3 naps a day, around 2 hours each. Sleeping between 9-12 hours a night. (Thank you babywise, Alissa)

• Is an eating champion! I think we need to enter her into an eating contest.

• I am still breast feeding! Woohoo I didn’t think i could make it this far...haha its so hard at first. But its now going great and am going to try and breast feed her until she is a year!

• She is sitting up for long periods of time playing with her toys. She also has the best posture just like her Marmie!

Claire is not crawling yet but is scooting backwards and spinning around in a circle. Once she can get the forward motion going that we will never see her!

• Loves bath time, singing songs, listening and watching people.

• Was sick last month with bronchiolitis. We had our first trip to the ER at the Phoenix Children’s Hospital. So sad.... they did a chest x-ray, urine test, and blood test. Although her lungs checked out fine and sent her home, i had to suction her every chance i got. She slept in her car seat to keep her elevated. She still sleeps with her humidifier. And she had a fever of 104. She is now 100% better from that sickness but unfortunately the doctors are still concerned with her fast breathing. She is scheduled to see a pulmonary/respiratory specialist this month to get looked at. We will keep you posted.

Photog Sesh with Andee!

2010-03-20T11:55:00.000-07:00

Tutu take 2

2010-03-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

Claire Bear!

6 months

I decided to take some fun pictures with Claire in one of her adorable tutu's! Although my child was most interested in the 2 furry animals, could not sit up for a long period of time by herself, and no one to help me, I think these turned out rather sweet!
Our little sweetness is 6 months old now and growing up like a champ! She is doing great now with eating her not so solid foods and doing better eating those sweet peas. She loves spinning around in her saucer and playing with her toys. This little girls hand eye coordination is pretty outstanding. She can grasp anything she wants to. Sports and arts in the future? I think so! She has these really funny, long, slender little legs. A beauty freckle to die over. And eye lashes that make her mom real jealous!

Just for Allison!

2010-03-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

Because we love you OH SO MUCH!!!!!!

This is Aunty Alli, Uncle Nick, and Claires first time meeting! Claire absolutely loved them! And she and I both cant wait to go visit them in Utah!

Bored!

2010-03-09T17:21:00.001-07:00

A little bored on a Wednesday!

Baby Claire and Cousin Hannah goofing around!

Sneaky Sneaky Lemon Squeezy!!

Will's pretty eyes! I am jealous of those lashes.

Josh and Hannah

Look how cool Josh's eyes are! Can you see the flower?
And Hannah's brown streak in her eye!

Happy and Sad

2010-03-05T13:04:00.001-07:00

1. Elder Kyle Madsen

I am happy because this past week my Brother left for the MTC, for his mission to Calgary, Canada!!

I am so incredibly proud of him and so excited for the wonderful/hard times he will have. I know the Lord will be with him directing his life and his mission. He has such a sweet soul.

I know he will touch a lot of peoples lives in Calgary as he shares the Gospel.

I am sad because I will miss him. And I have to wait 2 years to see him again!

But its so worth it. He is where he is needed.

We love you Kyle! Ooops i mean Elder Madsen!!

2. And second......Luke was transferred to weekdays!!!

His schedule went from Friday-Monday to Monday-Friday!! He officially gets his own drivers to manage. Initially we were told switching his schedule would take 6 months to a year.

Thank heavens it was only 3 months!

I am happy because we can finally go to church together again.

But selfishly I am sad he doesn't have 3 days off anymore! haha

P.S. No he does not drive trucks. Nor does he work at night.

He is a Driver Manager for KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION! haha

(Many people were confused at first.) =)

Pee Wee Basketball!

2010-03-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

Pee Wee Basketball!

Coach Troy and Coach Mark (Dad's)

I had so much fun watching my niece and nephews play basketball! Hannah #24, Will #22, and Michael#32! Gavin played on the side. He sure loved watching his big brother play! Sorry about the crappy action shots I didn't have a sports lens!

Be Mine, Little Valentine

2010-02-19T18:42:00.005-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Claire's 1st Valentines at 5 Months old!

Claire is enjoying all of the cards we gave each other and one day dreaming of her Future Valentine...far far far far off into the distance. (For mine and daddy's sake) LOL

Isn't she the most beautiful girl in the world??????

What is that red thing?

I love her little curling toes...

Dear Claire,

You are Mommy's little Sweet Heart and Daddy's little Valentine. Forever and ever. Please don't grow up too fast. I can already see some guy stealing your heart. I hope you will choose the right one and look for someone who will treat you like a Princess.

We love you so much!

Mom and Dad

C.C. Tricks!

2010-02-19T18:31:00.005-07:00

Trick #1 Toe Touch

She is obsessed with her toes!! And she has proven to be very flexible!

Trick #2 Motor Lips!
She loves to play back and forth with Daddy.

Sun Bathing

2010-02-19T18:27:00.002-07:00

Oh to be a dog... Life is so easy.

Mmmmm......yuummy Rice Cereal!!

2010-02-19T17:13:00.004-07:00

Baby Girl's first time eating!

Boy have we had a fun time trying new foods.

So far we like:
Sweet Potatoes
Peaches

We hate:
Green Beans
Sweet Peas
Squash
Plain Rice Cereal

She grabbed the spoon from me and tried to feed herself. She got it up her nostril instead. haha

This is the before shot. Nice and Clean

Chocolate Festival!!!

2010-02-08T15:50:00.008-07:00

Can anyone say...

Chocolate dipped Banana!

Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake!

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

Deep Fried Chocolate Snickers Bar!

Yes folks that right! I cheated last Saturday....I had a ChoCoLATe Afffair!!!!
My Aunt Jill, her husband Kevin, and their cute baby Jorgen met me in Glendale for the 15th Annual Chocoalte Festival. I also meet up with my wonderful friend Tiana and her 2 sweet kids.

So I finally got these pictures to post.
This was the FIRST meeting of Baby Claire and my side of the family.

Hunter, Wes, and Claire! All three Grand babies on my side.

My Parents Grandma and Grandpa and C.C.

Claires Great Aunt Jill and her Aunt Liss

Tink's Great Grandma Judy!

AUntiE LiSS

GreAT AUntiE jiLl

CC and Jorgy
Claire's First Cousin Once removed??? I think???

Diva!

2010-02-03T23:47:00.004-07:00

4 Months Old!!!

Somebody by the name of Claire has:

Grown 3 1/4 inches= 26 1/4=LONG

Gained 1lbs and 4oz = 12lbs 4oz =SKINNY

We took little Tink to her 4month Dr. appointment today.
Dr. Berger a family friend for over 40 years, who was Luke's pediatrician is now Claire's! He is such a sweet old man. He gave Claire the OKAY to start on Solid food. Starting with Rice cereal, veggies, and fruits. I am so excited to get started!!! Claire also received her 2nd round of shots....so sad. She has been a little grump today. Poor girl. She did however, get the cutest little barbie band aid.

Claire has been rolling over since Dec. 5th! I was able to witness this glorious event! She rolls from her tummy to her back like a champ! She also rolls from her back to her sides a lot but, hasn't quite mastered the art of rolling from back to tummy.
CC likes to sing with me and she talks all the time.
She is sleeping around 10-12hrs a night. And is the best napper!
2hour naps, Thank you Babywise!!
She continues to have the sweetest temperament. Wakes up smiling and goes to bed smiling.
We also heard her laugh/giggle for the first time this month. Awwwww I just love it!!

Here is my little Diva already sun bathing for her beauty tan.

Side rolling!

Standing with Daddy

We love our Bumbo seat!!!

Dear Claire,

Your dad and I went for a walk tonight and when we came home Popie was holding you in his arms. You had awoken early from your nap very upset. I pulled you in my arms and kissed you. I sang to you twinkle twinkle little star, Somewhere over the rainbow, and The Way I Am. Just like your Daddy you love to have your arms, legs, head, and back scratched. So I did. You calmed down and looked up at me with those big blue eyes. You needed your mommy. And I cant deny that I absolutely loved that.

Love, Mommy

Elder Madsen!!

2010-02-03T23:35:00.003-07:00

Calgary Eh?

My Little Brother Kyle just got called to the Canada, Calgary Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints! Congratulations Kyle, you will make a wonderful Missionary. He leaves March 3rd for the MTC.

We are so proud of you.

3 Months!

2010-01-24T22:49:00.006-07:00

I am a little late in posting this but better late then never! I haven't used Mac photoshop before so this is my experiment. We are going to see the doctor for her 4 month appointment and shots in a week. I will let you know on the results!Goofy little smile.

I wonder what she was thinking at that moment. haha

4 Generations!

2010-01-24T22:31:00.002-07:00

My Grandma Clawson came to visit right before Christmas.
She was able to meet her little great Grandbaby for the first time!

It was so neat to be able to get a picture of 4 generation of women in a row!

Me and my 2 girls.

Little Lady C.C. Girl

Goodbye 2009!

2010-01-23T20:57:00.002-07:00

I wanted to take a minute and reflect on this past year and try to remember every event, celebration, trial, or life changing moment. 2009 will be an unforgettable year all because of:

1. The first couple of weeks in 2009 began with the big news of 2 becoming 3, a baby!!

2. Which brings us to our next event, the pregnancy. I can remember those weeks where all i felt was nausea. But really enjoyed the whole experience in its "huge" splendor! A funny moment I remember is when I went swimming in my bikini (7 months) and having kids stare at my belly, looking concerned. They were worried it would come out of me in the water!!! I assured them that she needed more time in my belly and that she wouldn't be coming out for a while. LOL

3. My Grandpa George passed away in January of 09. He was the cutest old man that you ever saw! I can just picture him doing his Maori dance and singing his atooittaaaa dance. (My family knows what I am talking about.)

4. Last May we had a great celebration of Luke's graduation from SVU!! What a fun and long journey it was watching Luke get to play college football and baseball. And of course get his education on top of it! lol

5. We decided to join the ranks and sell APX alarms in CT for the summer. The selling part wasn't as fun as we hoped but, we sure had a grand time getting to know Luke's cousins. We were able to see Boston,NYC, and Rhode Island for the first time. LOVED IT! And we love you Nikki,Devin, La'Akea, Aleki, Malia, new little Owen, and, Chris...Yayyy baby!! haha

6. Our long awaited Claire was the biggest event/celebration/and life changing moment of the year! We just love her so much. I live to see those big blue eyes and gorgeous smile everyday. We have been so blessed to have her in our lives. She lets us take her to movies, games, out to eat, and doesn't give a fuss! She has a sweet temperament and is a happy-go-lucky girl.

7. This wasn't much fun for me but I know Luke loved it. He was able to Coach Football! Too bad they didn't pay him more than beans otherwise we might had stayed another year. He coached the quarterbacks and recruited for SVU. And it was a great for his resume to coach College ball.

8. We moved back home to Arizona! What a trial that was. I had to take out my IRA and 403B to afford to move across country. And we still have half our stuff that wouldn't fit back in VA!! Owell, it will give us an excuse to go back and visit our wonderful friends and to do my favorite thing...travel!!

9.My uncle Paul pass away suddenly- Obituary:

Paul David Madsen passed away December 22, 2009 in Bountiful , Utah . He was the much-loved son of Judith Pitts Madsen and Clair Evan Madsen, born January 12, 1967. He is survived by his mother, Judy, his brothers, Duff (Arlene), Jeff (Karen), Kevin (Jeneline), Robert (Michelle), Michael, and his sister, Jill (Kevin). His father preceded him in death. He also leaves behind a grandmother, many aunts and uncles and sixteen nieces and nephews.He loved his family very much and was looking forward to joining all of them at Christmas. Instead he celebrated Christmas with his dad, grandparents and others. He is also now enjoying the company of his favorite dog, Shilo, the family pet for 14 years. Paul was an avid BYU fan, never missing a game and calling his siblings to make certain they were also watching. He loved riding his bullet bike, ATV and going target shooting in the mountains with his brothers and friends.Paul was an Eagle Scout and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ( Bountiful 22^nd ward) and had previously been a member of Centerville 6^th ward for many years. He will be buried in the Centerville City Cemetery after a short service at the Centerville 6^th Ward Building 900 South 400 East on December 31, 2009 at 12:00pm. There will be a viewing beforehand.

10. Luke was offered a job with Knight Trucking!! He is training to be a driver manager. We are so blessed to have this job in this economy. We thought for sure it was going take at least 3 months before landing the job. Way to go Luke!!!

11. And lastly we were able to spend Christmas with our fabulous family and start the new year back at home in AZ.

We are so grateful for all of our wonderful blessings. The Lord truly has a plan for all of us. I know that as long as we are on the right path doing everything that we can the Lord will meet us half way, and everything will fall into place. I truly am grateful for the trials that I have faced in my life. It has helped me grow as a person and as a daughter of God. I am grateful to attend the temple and to be sealed to my sweet family for Eternity.

Going Private!!

2010-01-05T12:45:00.002-07:00

So I have been thinking about it and decided to make my blog private. Leave me your email address so I can add you to view my blog! And even if you think I have your email...leave it anyways!!!

Lets face it we all blog stock! So even if you are not on my friends list and want to be leave me your email too!! =)

Oh how I love Christmas!!

2010-01-02T18:26:00.014-07:00

Claire Colette's first Christmas!!!!
December 2009, Claire 14 weeks old

(**Warning** A ton of pictures ahead!)

What tells a story better than pictures? And since I am obsessed with taking them you have a plethora to feast your eyes upon! I unknowingly put the pictures on backwards, so we are going to start with Christmas day!

Here is my Mom with little Ms. Claire Claus
We went over to my parents house Christmas day for our gift exchanges, games, dinner, and family fun!

Here is Grandma, Claire, and my sister Alissa

Wes and Claire, we took another picture that wasn't blurry but,
Wes's smile was too cute in this one.

Aunty Liss Love's her little niece! Don't you just love her little legs??

I'm not sure what we were talking about. But I am positive we were being nice to each other!LOL

Mommy and baby girl, just after we opened up her gifts from Grandma and Grandpa!
We sure love those books, pj's, and diapers!

I just love this little chick!
(Please pay no attention to the chubby face, I will be working on that! And I don't mean Claire's!)

One of our gifts to Grandma!

What would be Christmas without our Mabes! She is having a blast running through the big houses and backyards. She also loves playing with her new cousins! Except for when they try and sit on her....Katey Kate! haha

Hunter trying out his new contraption. I'm not sure what that is, but he sure is cute!

I absolutely love this picture of Weston!

Uncle Mark enjoying the show!

Luke picked out this flying helicopter gift for Dad. They were both pretty stoked about it!

End of Christmas Morning! She was so pooped from all of the excitement. It was time for a nap.
Cousin Rylee holding her.

Beautiful Claire

Cousin Rylee is the best!

The 2 love birds!!! Our 5th Christmas together!!

All the ladies and our fab stocking slippers!!!
Rylee, Andee, Marmie, Me, Stefani, Cami, Natalie, Allison

The Taylor's have a "huge" stocking tradition! I made this one for Claire this year and here is the end result! I turned out better than i expected! The one problem was that it faced the opposite of all the other stockings....owell!! haha

One of Luke's gifts for me. He is so sweet! His big gift he gave me was an Ipod!! Yes we have never officially owned one before!! haha

Luke was dying to get the movie Star Treck! I also got him some new work clothes, and I scrap booked all his high school/college newspaper clippings, awards, and pictures!

Marmie and Claire Bear

Cute Jaxon!!

Matching Pajama ladies!
Me, Luke's Mom, and Allison (Luke's Brothers wife)

Papa, Claire's Great Grandpa!!

Claire enjoying one of Santa's gifts!

Sweetness in her new exersaucer and KK making her smile!

Now Tummy time will be even more enjoyable!!

"Santa's Loot" all spread out for Claire Christmas morning.

All the Cousins the night before after getting there PJ's! My Camera died after I took this one. So I don't have one of the good pics. haha
Kate, Hannah, Andee, Noah, Gavin, Will, Michael, Claire, and Josh (Missing Rylee and Jax)

Claire, after putting on her Christmas PJ's (another Taylor tradition!)

Thank you Marmie for the adorable Pajama's! Claire was just beside herself to get them! ha!

Marmie and Lady Claire

Popie and Claire!

One of Claires Christmas dresses! You want to kiss those cheeks...dont you!

I just love her!

Me with some of my most favorite nephews!!
Gavin, Michael, and Will

Daddy's Blondies!

Daddy, the stud. Need I say more?

Gavin, Luke, and babes

This was the at the Christmas eve party! The Madsen's were so nice to come! My brother Matt and my Dad. This is wear Claire pooped all over matt. But she sure loved to sit with him. ;)

Will

Hannah, my little BFFEAWAD
(Bestfriendsforeverevenafterwearedead) She made it up! lol

Crazy Gavin

Allison, Nick, and Josh
I loved spending time with Allison during their week here. Allison and I went shopping, out to eat, went and got pedicures, and searched high and low for an ice-cream place that was open!
Claire absolutely loved them. They are going to be the best of parents one day!!
We were all so sad when they had to go back home to Utah.

Luke and Will

If you dont know who this is by now, there is no help for you. LOL

Uncle Kyle and Claire having a good time!

I love my brothers!!

Luke and Gavin!

Aunty Natalie and the most famous little lady on my blog...Claire!!!!

What a Great Christmas we had!! Thank you to everyone!!!!

The Taylor's Go West!

2009-12-10T17:22:00.004-07:00

That's right folks we moved back to Arizona! We are so excited to be back and begin our journey here in our homeland. But don't worry our BVers we will be back from time to time, we still own our house there.

Our move:

Well packing proved itself to be quite the challenge with a 2 month old. Even though she eats every 3 hours it was extremely hard to keep the momentum going. Thank goodness we already had our house pretty much all packed up before we left to CT over the summer. So all we had to do was the apartment. My cave. Who sets an apartment up with no closets? And no natural light?? (Note to any BVers do NOT move in the University House Apartments. They are the crap of BV and all the hooligans live there.) Anyways, we planned to surprise our family and show up on Thanksgiving but, didn't quite make it there on time. =( We ended up spending our Thanksgiving in Memphis,TN at a Cracker Barrel. The Thanksgiving Special was not as special as we had hoped. lol However, it was kinda fun to do something different I have to admit. Well, we had left Wednesday and arrived on Saturday night in Phoenix. The moment couldn't have come any sooner. Both Claire and Mable did wonderful throughout the whole trip until we crossed the AZ border. Both our girls projectile vomited all over the front seat and car seat. Proud to say, our only unscheduled stop. I think it helped that I was in the back seat with Claire all 4o hours of the trip. Otherwise I'm guessing she would have been a mess.

We have landed here on the West side of Phoenix living with Luke's parents until we can find a job, save some money, pay off some stuff, and find a place of our own! We are so excited to be back with family and see some friends we haven't seen in years!!!

We are extremely grateful to our parents for making the move back home happen.

I would like to take this moment to say goodbye to Virginia, Buena Vista, and the East Coast all together.

Goodbye:
Southern Virginia University
SVU Football, SVU Baseball
Don Tequila's, Sweet Things, Salerno's, Nick's, and Joyful Spirit's cafe, Kenny's (that ones from Luke)
Buena Vista Ward
All of our wonderful friends, even though now most of you are scattered across the US
Beautiful fall and spring seasons
Small town living
Green
Goodbye:
East Coast, NYC, Boston, CT,Virginia Beach,Florida
Our trips to Richmond
Cold(that's a happy goodbye)
Snow
Humidity
Green
Wild Flowers, my daffodils
Rain

Goodbye Virginia. Somewhere, somehow, right from under our noses we fell in love with you.

My 2 Month Old Babe

2009-11-22T21:51:00.006-07:00

Claire is now 2 months old!! I cant believe it! She has grown so much. I don't see her has my little new born anymore but I am still holding on to the infant title. She is such a sweet heart. She wakes up smiling, goes to bed smiling, and finishes eating smiling. She is such a joy in our lives. Luke and I are truly loving the parent role and taking care of this little beauty. I think our main goal everyday is just to make her smile. We love her coos and sounds. We cant wait to hear her laugh and giggle! Claire at this point is sleeping through the night about 7 hrs or so. She mainly only gets fussy when she has bad gas or drops her Binky when she is in her car seat. When we compare her size to other babies her age, she just looks so much older.

2 Month checkup from Dr. Dubit!

She has grown 3 inches...now 23 inches long

She has gained 3 pounds...now 11 pounds

She is in the 75% to 85% percentile

Dr. Dubit kept saying how long she looked and wanted to know how tall Luke and I are. He said, "Yup she is going to be a tall one!"

She has not received her shots yet. We are planning on doing that in AZ soon. I'm not looking forward to it....

2 Month Old Photo shoot!

(Sorry I only have so many props and very little lighting in our apartment to work with! But I know her good looks with distract you from noticing.) lol

I had to put this last picture of me and Claire on here somewhere. We had a girls night while daddy was in Florida for a football game. We did our hair wacky. Got dressed up. Put on makeup. and I attempted to paint her toenails...(I'm going to have to get her in her sleep! Too squirmy!) And then we made cookies. We had a lot of fun while daddy was away, although we sure did miss him.

Claire Tube!

2009-11-14T21:17:00.005-07:00

Claire Bear's Blessing Day!!!

2009-11-04T20:15:00.004-07:00

Luke had the opportunity to bless our daughter Claire this past Sunday on November 1st, 2009. Claire at six weeks of age. He wont admit it but, he was a little nervous about getting up there. He did such a wonderful job. Everyone was wiping away tears. It was from the heart and truly lead by the spirit, just for her. I hope she knows just how much she is loved. Luke mentioned in the blessing that her parents have an eternal love for her. He also blessed her to know of her Heavenly Father's love and how it is much greater than ours. Another part that stuck out was when he blessed her to prepare to be married in the Lord's house to the one she loves...then he blessed her that she might be a "little picky" with her choice of groom. =)

Claire wore a gorgeous gown that her Marmie (Luke's mom) gave to her. She also styled a flower head band and jewel bracelet made by my best friend from AZ Trisha Davis. I spent the whole morning worried that we wouldn't get to the church on time....let the record show we did! In our rush to get there, we forgot the keys to the apartment, Luke's teaching manual, a binkie, and more importantly the bottle I made for her to help make sure she was asleep for the blessing. i would have made sure it was during her nap time but we forgot about daylight savings time! Aside from all that, she did wonderful and was awake and completely quite, until we sat back down. I spent the whole next hour in the mothers room nursing her. lol After church I made lunch for those that were apart of the blessing. In honor of Claire's day I made banana chocolate chip cookies! My families favorite.

Our family was not able to attend at all being on opposite sides of the country. So we invited our friends who are like family to be apart of Claire's special day. Nate, Alyson, Treyton, and Jayci Sharp, John Mills, Jordan and Shanda Munns, Tyler and Erika Anderson, Tyler Card and Danni, Ben and Holly Burningham.

Brandon, Joyelle, Jaxon, Maddox, and kapri Turley couldn't make it from Pittsburg because their poor kids got super sick the night before.

Thanks again to everyone who was apart of her blessing it really meant a lot to us that you were all there. Our hearts were filled with gratitude and joy. =)

(blessing day photo shoot)

Its all about accessorizing!

(Thank you Trisha!)

I cant get over this beautiful face.

Our lunch afterwards with our besties!

We were missing the Burningham's, Anderson's, and Turley's

Us with the Sharps kids!

Our little family

(don't you just love the mustache and fall leaves?)

Me and my daughter

How Could You Not....

2009-11-03T21:29:00.004-07:00

AbSOluTeLy LOVE:

(Claire 6 weeks)

These Cheeks!!!

The Grump Face!!

The Sneezes!!

The Yawns and flared nostrils!!!

Those Pretty Eyes!!

And the SMILES!!!!!!!!!!

Ghouls of Fun!!!

2009-11-02T14:53:00.004-07:00

More like footballs of Fun! Or Don Tequila's of Fun!

Or better yet, The Sharps of Fun!!!!!!

You guessed it, we spent our Halloween with the Sharp Family at the SVU football game (where Luke Coaches) and then we all went to dinner at Donny T's, "Mexican Food." I spent the evening preparing for Claire's blessing the next day and her little shin dig (post to come). Then after the kids finished trick-or-treating we hung out with Nate and Alyson (Who came for Claire's blessing) for the rest of the night. They are the best. We sure do miss them here in BV!!!

Sorry Claire's costume wasn't much, we have no money, and don't have very good resources in our small town to make something cute!

Me and my little pumpkin (Claire 6 weeks, Halloween 09')

Treyton Sharp wasn't feeling very good and fell asleep under the bleacher seat!

Such a funny kid! You can see Claire fussing in the back.

Little Miss Jayci!

Nate and Luke! A couple of people asked if Nate was Luke's brother! They have similar eyes, noses, cheeks, foreheads, and big lips...but other than that we just don't see it. LOL

Lady Alyson and Our Pumpkin girl!

Thanks for coming this weekend and spending the first part of Halloween with us!

Happy Birthday Daddy!!!

2009-10-24T22:01:00.005-07:00

Happy 26th Birthday Daddio!!!

To my sexy man:

I love you with all of my heart!

I hope your Bday was a good one even though we

had to spend it apart.

I love the fact that you look good in a mustache!

I love how you like to take weekend getaway trips with me!

I love your sense of humor and your charming personality!

I am so proud of you and your accomplishments!!

I love how you are such a hard worker especially for our family!

You will forever be my partner in crime!

Thank you for be adventurous with me even though you would rather be at home!

I love your handsome profile and sexy swagger walk!!

Most of all, i don't care where we go just as long as I am with you.

And as long as we are together anywhere is paradise, even if we are poor. lol

From Princess Claire:

Thank you for being the best dad!

I love playing video games and watching football with you!

I love taking naps on your chest!!

And I love the times when we can eat together! Even if we both fall asleep at the bottle. =)

Thank you for being the father of my child and for taking such good care of your family. We are so proud of the man you are.

We love you!!!

Niki, Claire, and Mable

Changing 2 Sets of Diapers....Say What???

2009-10-22T19:04:00.002-07:00

Yes it is true for the past 2 weeks I have had to change two sets of diapers. Our Puppy Mable has gone into HEAT! I hope you think this is funny because I sure don't. She is shedding more and smells up the whole apartment! I was kind of expecting her to go into heat around this time but kinda hoped she would skip it!

Not to mention its so scary trying to walk her around our town. Every dog seems to come out and either want to attack her or do the other horrible thing to our Mabes.

We had a bull dog attack her a month ago (I was 9 months pregnant) and if you can imagine me in my hugeness trying to kick and beat this dog off of her. It was a good thing Luke was driving by right then. He jumped out of the car and pretty much saved her.

We felt so bad, she was freaking out! The dog ended up being somebodies we knew and they felt bad too. They sent her flowers and doggy treats. LOL

Here is Mable checking out the new toy. She just wants to smell her alllll day!

Here is Mable's Doggy diaper and below is Claire's first BLOW OUT!

I swear its strait mustard.

When we were in the hospital my Mom was taking care of Mable at home. She said that Mable knew something was up and she wouldn't come out from under the couch. When my Mom left to go see us in the hospital she put up the doggy gate in the bathroom and Mable (for the first time ever) jumped over it!!!

At first she didn't know what to think of baby girl. She keep trying to jump and get her legs when she was in our arms. She was a new toy that Mable was dying to play with. She has actually figured out that Claire is ahead of her in the pack and is very gentle with her.

Now to stop her from chewing up her clothes and Binky's!!!

1Month Old and Halfway to 50!

2009-10-21T03:04:00.005-07:00

On Monday I turned 25!!

And Claire also had her big day as a 1 Month Old!!

I cant believe I am this age and have a sweet month old baby girl.

Time sure flies when you are having fun and enjoying life.

Facts about Tink:

-Last week she weighed 9 lbs 4 oz

-She had her first smile at me on 10-17-09

-She is a great sleeper and eater

-Loves her daddy and knows his voice when he enters the room. She will move her head and get all excited.

-Pretty much everyone says she looks like her daddy

-She has been holding her neck up since we were still in the hospital. Loves her Tummy time on my belly the most.

- She has to sleep sprawled out, arms above her head!

- Mommy and Daddy are soooo attached to this little girl its crazy!!!!!!!

Kidney Transplant of Love

2009-10-15T19:04:00.005-07:00

My very sweet Uncle Robert has so graciously donated one

of his kidneys to his mom, my Grandma Judy today. This has been a long awaited and overdue process. And the day has finally come!

You are in our prayers Grandma and Robert! Hope your recovery goes well. We love you!!!

Post Pregnancy Wrap Up

2009-10-15T14:51:00.006-07:00

I just wanted to wrap up all the fun facts about

my pregnancy with Claire!

1. I got morning sickness once in my first trimester in Math class. And the second time in my third trimester due to spicy buffalo wings baby girl didn't like.

2. I had about .5 of swelling throughout my entire pregnancy.

3. I did wear Maternity clothes but was also able to wear a lot of my regular clothes up until the day I had her.

4. We lived in Connecticut for 3 months while I was in ending my 2nd and beginning my third trimester.

5. Baby Girl was in my belly at 11 weeks and at 32 weeks when we visited New York City twice.

6. We also flew to Arizona for her baby showers when I was 33 weeks.

7. I only had heart burn 3 times late at night.

8. We also visited Rhode Island at around 28 weeks and Boston, MA at 31 weeks.

9. I didn't gain weight until the end of my 6th month. And people at 7 months were still asking if I even was pregnant.

10. I worked up until a couple of weeks before I had Claire.

11. I also went to school during the first trimester.

12. I was mostly only able to exercise in my 2nd trimester.

13. She was according to one of our due dates, born a week late.

14. I was fortunate enough not to need any medicine besides prenatals during the entire pregnancy.

14. The Chinese calendars said we were going to have a boy.....bogus! But I am now a believer of the New Moon/ and Labor.

15, She pretty much had the hiccups everyday.

16. I am going to miss her little feet jammed up in my ribs.

17. I was in labor 48 hours, 33 hours of hard labor though.

18. I didnt get strech marks on my belly until my last week pregnant.

19. We Picked a name a couple of hours before she was born. They asked us what her name was going to be and Luke looked at me and asked, "Claire?" to me...and I nodded, "Yes, Claire is her name."

20.........I will probably come up with more but that's all the fun facts I can think of right now!

My b-e-a-utiful FAMILY!!!

2009-10-11T11:08:00.017-07:00

Claire, 2 weeks old. Taken on 10-4-2009

Thank you Brinn! You are amazing! www.bmwphotography.ifp3.com

Claire's Birth Story!!!

2009-09-26T12:02:00.020-07:00

**Warning** Very long and detailed! =) This is for everyone who have asked and also for documenting purposes!

I just want to start off saying how much in love Luke and I are with this little girl. Its amazing how one day can change your life forever. One day your not a parent and the next you are. We couldn't be happier and more excited to have our Princess Claire in our lives. After giving childbirth It reminds me of my testimony of Heavenly Father. He truly has a plan for us. I am so thankful he has given us one of his spirits in heaven to look after here on earth. I am more in love with my husband than ever and couldn't be prouder to have both him and Claire as my Eternal Family.

So Saturday the 12th was Claire's due date, so to speak. We really don't know if she was late or right on time. But I guess a due date is just a good guesstimate anyways. I had been doing everything I could to get the ball rolling that week. I even hiked up the hill to the school about 3 or 4 times in a row to see if it would start anything. (its a pretty steep hill, especially for a prego).

My Mom flew in on Thursday to help out with the cleaning, making freezer meals, and the baby if she was going to arrive in that time frame. And then, it all started Friday morning on the 18th, I woke up feeling a little crampy. Not thinking anything of it I went throughout the day just a little uncomfortable. My mom and little brother Kyle drove me into Staunton to do some baby shopping! My mom was so nice to buy us a baby swing, diaper bag, nursing nighty for the hospital, and some other fun stuff too! I then had a doctors appointment with my midwife Christina Dubay. They strapped me up to the NST test to make sure baby was doing ok. Baby was great! ( I dont know why they call it a Non Stress Test, stressed the crap out of me!) Then she checked to see if I was dilated. 1 1/2!!! I couldn't believe it. All that work and still nothing really. She asked if I wanted her to strip the membranes and I said ok! I heard that hurts from other people but It just felt really crampy and uncomfortable. No super pain.

After that we went to Five Guys burger joint and I started noticing some contractions that really were getting strong. By 10pm that night Luke and I were timing the contractions. At this point we knew that Luke wasn't going to make it the football game the next day. It still was really irregular so we went to bed. Well I didn't sleep at all!!! They totally got worse. I was breathing heavy the whole night and I was afraid I would let it go way to long before I could get to the hospital in time. So i kept timing. I even woke Luke up with my breathing. So I went into the bathroom, painted my toenails, and packed some more.

I finally called Chris at 7am to say I need to come into the hospital. She said alright come on down! We got their by 9am and checked into the birthing suite. This room was awesome because you labored, delivered, and had postpartum in the same room! I loved it. Well the nurse checked me and I was still 1.5 maybe a 2! Ugghhh! I thought for sure I was a 3 or 4. lol So Chris told me to get up and walk. So luke and I paced back and forth in the L&D area. After an hour she checked me I was a 3! I was doing ok with the contractions just breathing really long deeps breaths (no birthing classes mind you). So they talked me into waiting just a little longer for the Epi. I went in and took a bath. It was the most amazing thing in the world! It didn't take away the pain of the contractions but it took away the achyness after each contraction. I highly recommend it! I was in their for over an hour.

They check me again. And I had dilated to a 5!!! Oh my and by now the pain was really intense. I asked for the Epi and so they put me on fluids to get ready for it. It took the doctor and hour to get their for the Epi. So mean while they game me a blessed piece of medicine called Stadol. It didn't take away the pain but it made you Loopy enough to not care as much. ( This wore off before the actual delivery) so it was nice. I got the Epi which wasn't painful for me at all, maybe the Stadol helped! Anyways I loved it! It took like 10 minutes for my lower body to start going numb. And then I slept for 2 hours. Chris checked me then and I was already at a 10! She asked if i felt the need to push yet and i hadn't so we decided to keep waiting and "Labor Down." I went back to sleep to let my body start to push her down by itself. Until I felt a need to push more consistently.

Luke was so nervous he had to pee like every 10 minutes before we started pushing!We finally got going! Luke stood behind me and helped me sit up with each contraction while giving me lots of encouragement and kisses. My mom was taking pictures like crazy. Luke and I were both a little scared to take a look at the head crowning but we both took a quick peek. lol She came out face up! I started pushing at 9:30 and she was out by 10:14!!! Chris did a great job trying to get me not to rip all over, i only tore in one spot. Claire came out and I reached out to hold my little slippery girl. The cord was really short so we laid her on my stomach as they wiped her off and cleared her air passages. She didn't scream, just fussed a little, then stared up at me with those gorgeous eyes! Love at first sight. =) Luke cut the cord and then followed his little princess over to be evaluated and cleaned up. He yelled back at me "She's 8 lbs 2 ounces!! And 20 inches long!" I think she surprised everyone!

Recovery was good. I cant complain I liked having the nurses there to help out with everything. Luke stayed the whole time with me and slept on the pull out coach. He was so wonderful with everything. From the first minute he was hands on. I didn't change a diaper until we got home! He loved going into the nursery and being with Claire. He stood by her as they gave her a sponge bath, shots, and testing. Through the night they would bring Claire in for her feedings and I enjoyed every minute of it, minus the tender nips! I have been learning that breastfeeding sure is rewarding but has its challenges.

We dressed Claire up in her coming home out fit and hair band. I brought 3 out fits to choose from! We put her in her new car seat and was a little nervous to drive with her so i rode in the back seat. She did great and slept the whole way. We just kept saying we cant believe she is finally here and that we have a daughter!

My man and I in between contractions

Luke sending me encouragement and love while I was pushing

Luke cutting the cord!

Our little family!

Me and my little girl

Claire getting cleaned and tested

Daddy by her side the whole time

We couldn't stop staring at her!!

Grandma (My mom) and us!

Claire has Luke wrapped by one finger from day one!

Mommy and baby resting

The next day

How cute are they?? She looks so little on Daddy's big chest.

All dolled up for pictures and to go home!

Being wheeled out to the car

Clairy's first car ride

At home on her changing table

Welcome home flowers in a festive vase!

Uncle Kyle and Mable in her kennel

The swing that Grandma bought for Claire Bear!

Daddy and Baby

Grandma, Mable, and Claire

Thank you Mom for staying with us the first week!!! You are Wonderful!!!!

09/19/2009

2009-09-24T19:51:00.005-07:00

Claire Taylor made her arrival into this world!!

10:14pm

8 pounds 2 ounces

20 inches long

Happy Birthday Claire Bear we love you!!!

(more pics and info to come)

That time of year again!!

2009-09-16T18:45:00.005-07:00

Luke Taylor

Quarterback Coach and Kicker Coach for SVU!!

This is the reason why we stayed one more season. What a great opportunity it is for Luke to coach a sport that he absolutely loves.

(Me at 38 Weeks)

Luke's QB got a Touch Down!
I love this pic with their butts in the air celebrating!

Isn't he cute??

Luke and Tyler Card

(One of his best buddies. Tyler was his center for the last 4 yrs)

Signal Calling

Pep Talk to the QB Sam Trulock

Way to go Coach Taylor! You are doing a great job!!!

Luke, Niki, and Baby Claire

Pumpkin Patch and Halloween

Claire's Birthday Weekend!

Happy 2nd Birthday Baby Claire!

Summer Fun!!!

Appetizer for the Palmer Family! -link

Claire-isms!!

Baby Andrew My Darling Nephew! (Sneak Peak!)

Easter 2011 Part One!

Sneak Peak of Adam Stephen!!!

2010 Family Pitctures!!

Sprikerhoff Wedding Photoshoot!

Catching up with Christmas 2010

Back track to Thanksgiving!

Hi My Name is Nicole Taylor and Yes I am alive.....

Meet the Flinstones! HaLloWeeN 2010

look who is...

Samantha Ann Peterson!

My Tinkerbell has turned ONE!!!

Claire's 1st Bday Pics

Moments like these....

The simplest toy, one which even the youngest child can operate, is called a grandparent. ~Sam Levenson

There once was a girl who fell madly in love with a boy.....

Sneaky Peaky of Alissa!

Fireworks at the Wigwam 4th of July Celebration!

9 month stats!

Happy girl doesn't even come close to describing Claire!

Claire's 1st Oreo!!!!

Daddy's (a.k.a. Luke) 1st Fathers Day!!!!

Side Steppin'!!!! Claire- 81/2 months

A little sneaky peaky at Trisha!

**My first Mother's Day!**

Smiles, poopy messes, and crawling!!

New Baby news!!

HAPPY EASTER!

Photog Sesh with Andee!

Tutu take 2

Just for Allison!

Bored!

Happy and Sad

Pee Wee Basketball!

Be Mine, Little Valentine

C.C. Tricks!

Sun Bathing

Mmmmm......yuummy Rice Cereal!!

Chocolate Festival!!!

Diva!

Elder Madsen!!

3 Months!

4 Generations!

Goodbye 2009!

Going Private!!

Oh how I love Christmas!!

The Taylor's Go West!

My 2 Month Old Babe

Claire Tube!

Claire Bear's Blessing Day!!!

How Could You Not....

Ghouls of Fun!!!

Happy Birthday Daddy!!!

Changing 2 Sets of Diapers....Say What???

1Month Old and Halfway to 50!

Kidney Transplant of Love

Post Pregnancy Wrap Up

My b-e-a-utiful FAMILY!!!

Claire's Birth Story!!!

09/19/2009

That time of year again!!

My first Mother's Day!