The Lindsey Family

2011-12-19T22:26:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends and Family,

As another year comes to a close, we pause to reflect on our experiences and blessings. The Lindsey family had a wonderful year full of new places and firsts. We also would like to wish you and yours a peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Dylan Slater is our baby boy and is growing like a weed. He can reach the light switches now and is fixated on pressing them at every opportunity. His vocabulary expands daily and he loves to say and do everything his big sister does. He’s a blue-eyed charmer that has his mother wrapped around his little finger. Passers by love to comment on how cute he is and we’re inclined to agree.

Kamryn turned five this fall and is having a blast at her new Pre-Kindergarten school. When she came home and recited the Pledge of Allegiance, daddy knew it was worth every penny. Kamryn is my carbon copy of Samantha. I always thought Sammy was one of kind, but it seems we’ve made another just like her. Our Kami Cakes is thoughtful and friendly to everyone, but extremely independent and quick. She has no fear of anything or anyone (Large reptiles included), and she has always known just what she wants and how to negotiate to get it.

Samantha continues to do what she does best: she is a mommy, companion, and a fitness machine. She kicks my rear in the gym and has a good time watching me try to keep up. Sam used her skills to guide a visually impaired athlete through one of the relay legs of the California International Marathon.

Sam and I are fortunate enough to have wonderful parents that will watch our kids for us as we jet set around the world. This year, Sammy took me on a tour of South Africa, where I fell in love with her family, the landscapes, and the waves of Jeffrey’s bay. I dragged Sam back across the Atlantic to Italy, where we fell in love all over again in the most romantic place in the world. We loved Florence and Cinque Terre, but especially Capri.

I am in my tenth year as an Ocularist in Sacramento and have opened a new office in Las Vegas. My Staff has changed, but business is the same. While I try to squeeze time for my plethora of hobbies, athletic and artistic endeavors, the best time spent is with my wonderful wife and kids.

We are so grateful for our friends and family and feel so much love for you. We are especially grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the peace it brings to our lives. May the Lord bless you this season and my you find peace and true joy throughout 2012 and beyond.

Love,

Eric, Samantha, Kamryn, and Dylan

Last night...

2011-08-16T13:31:00.001-07:00

Eric came home from work with a chocolate sunflower for Kamryn, because it was her first (last) day of Pre- K school.

and he came home with these for me, because he said "I couldn't stop thinking about you today" I know, it took my breath away.

Then we took the kids to the park and played with them.

Disclaimer: I do not give my consent to Eric riding with the kids on his shoulder while he rides his longboard...

and Eric took the training wheels off Kamryn's bike yesterday to try to introduce her to riding her bike. Turns out, we underestimated this little one because she was pretty much fearless...

until she crashed right into that pole (can you tell her bike heading straight for it).

Good thing she had her helmet on or I'm pretty sure she would have had a concussion at best!!!

After the park, Kamryn ran ALL the way home from the park with me.

It's probably 2 miles!!!

She's ready for her first triathlon in a few weeks.

Last night was pretty much my perfect night.

I love my family!!

playing catch up

2011-08-15T15:07:00.000-07:00

blogging seems to be low on my "to do list" in the summer, but now that school has started I'm going to have more time to update, so don't give up on me. The Lindseys have been as busy as ever enjoying the summer.

Here are some highlights.

we went to the Lake with our family

The only thing girly about this girl is that she LOVES the color pink.

Kamryn had her first dance recital

Big night for our little star.

The biggest highlight of our summer was Phillip Danz and Associates, changing business hours from Monday through Thursday meaning ERIC has FRIDAYS OFF.

So we get to do super fun things like go to SUNSPLASH

love this picture

Trouble...

Finally... my beautiful girlie started school TODAY.

And I know this is way cheesy but I couldn't be more proud...

Watch out Sheldon Acres :)

I can't wait to post pictures of our INCREDIBLE trip to Italy.

SOON.

Loving...

2011-06-20T14:04:00.000-07:00

...this warm weather with our cute kids

I love how busy my family is in the Summer. We've already been to Santa Cruz and Vegas and Summer has just barely begun. My kids live outside everyday and can't get enough of it.

Our big Summer trip is coming up in 3 days.

Andiamo subito alla bella Italia

Here we go to Beautiful Italy

PAR-TAY

2011-05-22T09:46:00.000-07:00

This MAN turned 33 this YEAR.

What better way to celebrate this MONUMENTAL occasion than to throw him a SURPRISE party...

LUAU Style

I totally pulled off the surprise, he had NO idea!

The night featured ENTERTAINMENT

...Crazy tricks

...beautiful dancers

...doing some exotic island dancing

...it even included a lesson for the guys to learn THE HAKA

I sent my bro-in-law on a SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT to find Eric the perfect SURPRISE road bike.

We pulled that off too, He was AMAZED. (Thanks Rob)

What's a luau without doing the LIMBO

The winner...

The DJ played awesome music

Cutest couple...

My beautiful friend Tara, who made these cupcakes.

Eric and I taking his new ride for a spin.

We had a FABULOUS night, dancing and enjoying everyone's company.

I had so many friends help out with this party, I would never have been able to pull off this surprise without their help; especially Rob, the Rogers, Tara, the Browns, and everyone invited for keeping their mouths SHUT :)

I need to start thinking of ideas for the next party to be able to top this one.

For Melissa

2011-05-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

I posted pictures of our family and friends in South Africa on facebook already, but these are for my sister who does not have a FB account.

My cousin Charleen and her beautiful family

My friend Bernie.

Two Bishops and Two friends

A South African braai

Charlene's beautiful Amber

Cousins.

Garreth's best friend.

Nelson, Eric, Andy and Cindy.

Padoa's

Melissa's best friend, Bridget

Cindy and Sam

Nanna and her sister

Cousins on my dad's side

My dad and his sisters.

Cousins on my mom's side

My mom's siblings.

Andy and Eric

Bex and I

with Alexia. Friends since primary school

The highlight of our trip was seeing friends and family. Eric told me that he felt like he had cousins he had never even met until now.

More pictures to come of the places we went and things we did

Snow and Sun

2011-04-14T00:52:00.000-07:00

Eric has been dying to take his babies skiing this season. Finally we bundled the kids up and took them up the hill. It was so much fun, the kids LOVED it. Here are some pictures.

We came home to gorgeous weather and hung out at the park.

In other news...

Boy broke both bones in his forearm this week

It was very traumatic for me and him.

...more on that later

Busy, busy, busy

2011-04-06T14:17:00.000-07:00

Our life is a little hectic every Summer and this year the busy has started early.

Kami had a Tangled Up party with her friends

They ate pizza, popcorn and ring pops while watching Tangled.

Stacy came with me to So Cal over the weekend. I had a dentist appt and we made a weekend out of it. We did the Hollywood walk of fame, Rodeo Drive, Balboa Island and Newport Beach.

I love Britney

And Stace loves Celine.

Our weekend away was so much fun. We came home from our relaxing weekend to diapers, kid music and dentist appointments for Kamryn.

Luckily she had Auntie Cindy treating her like a celebrity at the dentist.

X-Ray

Getting her teeth cleaned by her favorite person.

Dr. Danielson was so great with Kami Girl.

Dylan made his first appt to get his teeth cleaned in 2 weeks.

Cindy gave Kami and Dylan the hook up with rings. hair extensions, stickers, toothpaste and toothbrushes. It was so great to see my lil sis in action, she is amazing at what she does.

We love Cindy!

Finally, in ONE week we leave for the HOMELAND:)

Can't wait!!

Lucky...

2011-03-17T13:54:00.000-07:00

I love St. Patricks day. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world to have Eric as my lucky lover, and to have my 2 beautiful children. So I wanted to do something fun for my family so they felt lucky too. I found a really cute idea from here.

A Treasure Hunt

Kamryn and Eric went in desperate search for the clovers...

...hidden in awesome places

Chasing some clues proved very tricky...

but Kamryn and Eric finally figured it out

The treasure, hidden in the laundry room

Mission Accomplished.

Their luck continued with breakfast, instead of finding the usual egg whites and fruit or oatmeal...

They ate lucky charms :)

And they might just be addicted to the sugary goodness now.

Nobody was about to get pinched today...

so we've all been wearing our green.

Luckily for me, it's totally my color!

2 minus 1

2011-03-14T16:49:00.000-07:00

Last week Kamryn went to visit her cousins with ouma, which meant I had a lot of special time with our boy.

We missed Kami a lot but it was so nice to be able to give my undivided to Dylan.

Eric and I can't believe how much food this boy can put away. He eats everything, we took him to mikuni and he ate more edamame and tofu than both Eric and I.

His favorite food are "nanas"

He insists on swinging like a big boy.

and no matter how many times I tell him to use the stairs, he likes to go up the slide.

He absolutely loves bball

and I can tell he's going to be way good :)

He loves kids and even though he risked getting trampled on, he still wanted to play with them.

If you ever go to the park with us, it is probably my kid throwing bark in the air

He loves riding the quad in our backyard.

I know I'm biased but I'm pretty certain that this is the coolest kid ever.

Getaway and Valentines

2011-02-21T13:25:00.002-08:00

The Weekend before Valentines Day we went to Carmel by the Sea. We enjoyed our trip with Adrienne and JD. Shopping at upscale boutiques and eating at the most delicious cafe's and walking on the beach. The weather was perfect, allowing us to get out our suits and lay out watching the surfers.

We spent a few nights in this cute cottage house minutes away from the beach. We insisted that Adrie and JD take the double bed.

And Eric and I slept on the twin beds that we put together. We didn't even need to push them together since we spent two nights snuggling in one of the twin beds. I loved it:)

More of the cottage house we stayed at.

We fell in love with Carmel

Valentines Day...

was spent with the people I love most. All 3 of them. Eric made us heart shaped french toast and the kids opened their presents.

Adore this budha

And Eric came home from work after the kids were in bed to this...

I'm honestly so blessed to have a life that is so full of love and laughter.

Little Princesses

2011-02-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

We went to Disneyland again with our favorite people The Rogers.

This time, we left our cute little boys at home so that we could go on all the rides with our girls. We also stayed at the Grand Californian, and it was amazing. Kamryn was just shy of the 40" needed to go on all the big girl rides, so we stuffed her shoes with socks...

We had the best time, just looking at our pictures makes me want to go back.

Our girls had matching t-shirts on, so Stace and I got some matching ones too. I know, Cute huh?

The View from our room

After DLand we continued to spoil our girls with a mani/pedi while the boys golfed.

To sum everything up, I 'll quote our daughter "this is the best trip ever."

Christmas and New year and everything in between

2011-01-10T16:01:00.000-08:00

I love spending Christmas in southern california. There is always so much to look forward to; sitting in the spa, walks up the hills, pedicures, christmas program, hours trying to beat Jess at whatever card game we're playing, a lot of laughing and gorgeous weather.

This year did not disappoint...

Christmas eve

Christmas was centered around these four little ones...

Grammy even got the kids their own nativity that they can play with. The previous year, baby Jesus always went missing.

Eric and I got each other pjs on Christmas eve. He picked out the perfect jammies for me.

The kiddies on Christmas morning. Can't you just see the excitement in their faces.

Stocking Stuffer

Boy's gift from Grammy and papa was a huge hit, he would not even share with the other kids.

After a wonderful Christmas we had our very own SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE contest.

Everyone got into Character to show case their talent... or in our case, lack of...

Eric and I did a number by BackStreet Boys. I know, gangster....

We are making the SYTYCD contest a tradition, Eric and I will take the trophy from the victors, Bryce and Sarah... It's really hard to beat bollywood.

We also to the kiddies to...

PRETEND CITY

I don't let my son climb the cabinets in a real store.

Dylan was in heaven in this place, he loved everything. I can't believe last time I took him here he just slept in the baby bjorne.

Papa took all of us to the San Diego Zoo.

it's so hard to get a picture of all the babies together... smiling

We did so many things for the littles ones that we needed to get a babysitter and go out.

Just us adults

These guys make the best friends.

What trip to So Cal would be complete without a little trip to the beach.

I know, I need to stop taking so many pictures.

...till next time.

Vegas

2010-12-23T11:26:00.001-08:00

As you can tell our December has been really busy, Eric and I needed a little trip away just the two of us before it got even busier over Christmas.

Eric had a limo waiting for me when I arrived in Vegas. It took me to the Spa.

Then out to lunch with my favorite person at his favorite place to eat.

We stayed at the Encore, and loved it.

It was such a nice, relaxing getaway.

Now on to planning our next trip...

Getting pumped for Christmas

2010-12-23T10:16:00.000-08:00

We kicked off this month with a little train ride to the North Pole.

We took the kids to the Polar Express last year...

but it seems to be more fun the older they get.

Our besties joined in on the fun.

The kiddies in their pjs.

Finally at the North pole, Santa not only waved...

but hopped on the train for a little meet and greet with the kids.

Kamryn got busy in the kitchen decorating our gingerbread house

Quite the little artist...

Kami's preschool class did a little performance for all the mommies and daddies.

They serenaded us with a variety of Christmas songs....

making the audience feel all cheery inside:)

You'll have to excuse Santa, he was having a bad hair day.

I LOVE this picture of Kamryn and her best friend. It's going to be framed and put in her room.

Eric and I went to an ugly Christmas Sweater par-tay

We rocked the ugly sweaters, and I felt really cool in my awesome turtleneck.

We also made a trip to the Convalescent hospital to sing carols to the elderly

Kamryn made friends with this sweet lady, she hugged her and talked with her.

Thanks Stacy for organizing this wonderful FHE

Finally we spread some Christmas Cheer by sending out dozens and dozens of these yummy cupcakes.

We feel so blessed this season, for wonderful family and friends like you and acknowledge the source of all our blessings, our Savior.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Finally

2010-12-22T09:48:00.000-08:00

... a Thanksgiving update.

All 4 kids were in this trailer. So funny and a little bit scary.

We played soccor

and I even scored a goal.

Eric carved the bird.

We took the girls to see Tangled.

Melissa and I with our beautiful girls.

Our Thanksgiving was so wonderful. It was so great to be with the people we love most.

Happenings

2010-11-14T19:58:00.000-08:00

Well it happened...

Kami got her first love note last week. I remember getting love notes when I was young (not 4 years old young), and just had to take a picture of her holding her "I like Kami, she is nice" note.

Dylan got his first official haircut too, at a fancy shmancy hair salon for kids.

These are before pictures.

I actually didn't get "after" pictures, because they made his hair look kind of like a mushroom :<

And our gorgeous girl sang in her first primary presentation today.

She was super excited to show off her amazing vocal capabilities.

She belted out a few songs and I had to fight back the tears (only 'cause I was on the stand too).

We love these two so much.

I felt the spirit so strongly today as the beautiful children sang sweet songs of our Savior. Today I am most grateful to be both a mother and a daughter of God.

I heart...

2010-11-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

Apple Hill,

and I love my friend Rachel who was in town, giving us a reason to go to Apple Hill

Best Friends.

I love this cute boy

and I love Apple Crisp.

and so does Kami. The Apple doughnuts are to die for too.

I'm pretty sure this will not be the last time we go there this season.

Halloween Weekend

2010-10-31T19:57:00.000-07:00

Our weekend began with a field trip day at preschool. I completely forgot it was dress up. I felt like the WORST mommy in the world. I asked her if she wanted to go home and get her costume on and she said "no, I just want to play".

Luckily we improvised with a torn tutu, so her outfit could have been a rebel princess.

I love how confident she is...

and how she didn't care that she was the only one not dressed up.

Kami and Dorothy aka Montana.

Boy had fun eating cupcakes and Kamryn preferred to put grapes in her basket instead of candy.

Then to kick start Halloween, we went to a Par-tay at the White's Haunted House.

It's spooky how much fun we had.

The Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts

were caught making out.

We had a dance off.

The cold ones were really hot

Saturday morning we went to a pumpkin patch

Dylan loved all the mud and jumping with the big kids.

For our ward party, we did a family theme.

Everyone knew that Kamryn was Alice...

But had a hard time distinguishing that Dylan was the Cheshire Cat and even a boy for that matter.

How could they not see it???

Because of the gender confusion last night, we decided for Halloween to put his other manlier costume on.

He was the CUTEST astronaut ever.

Trick or treating ouma and oupa's house.

The Stash...

Kami is on a sugar high, still running around upstairs when she should be dreaming.

Hope everyone had a great halloween, I'm going to go end our weekend watching a scary movie with Eric and stealing some candy from the Stash.

Get your BOUNCE on!

2010-10-25T14:38:00.001-07:00

Kamryn had her 4th birthday party on Saturday. It was the best party I've thrown for her. We were going to do it at our house but the weather didn't comply, so last minute I had to change it, to a place called BounceU. I was soooo nervous that people wouldn't be able to make it because of the rain and last minute change of plans, but we had a FULL house.

An employee of BounceU came up to me and said that the room looked amazing, best she'd seen it:)

Maybe she was just after a big tip

I went with a cupcake theme

and instead of a cake, Kami got the biggest cupcake of all.

The favors. Cute on the outside, better on the inside.

We had kids and adults running around the room, sliding and jumping.

It got a little competitive too.

This little guy had no nap and still had the best time.

She was so spoiled. The bike was there just for a picture. The last gift was a helmet, Kamryn looked confused, and then the daddy brought the bike he got her in the room. She was so excited.

All Kami's friends.

Our beautiful birthday girl...

getting special treatment.

Singing Happy Birthday

She was the perfect hostess when it came time to opening presents...

She loved everything she got, and made people feel special.

The after party at my house was so much fun. The girls played with Kamryn's toys and dressed up.

The rain didn't stop Kami from trying out her new hot wheels. She rode in the garage like a pro and I think we'll have to take the training wheels off in no time.

We felt so loved by everyone who came from far and close to be with Kamryn on her party.

We love you and we LOVE our birthday girl.

Stay tuned for a special birth day post tomorrow.

The Windy City

2010-10-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

Eric had a conference in Chicago last weekend, and he's been there before and knew I would love it, so I made a really quick trip there. I'm so glad I did, because Chicago is something else. It's so big and overwhelming. There are people walking everywhere and Lake Michigan is so big it looks like an ocean. It is so much fun to visit and explore but I couldn't live there, I'm more of a suburbs kind of girl. We had a blast, there was so much to see in such a short time.

We met up with our friends, Jeremy and Christina.

...and talked them into doing the Urbanathalon with us. Christina and I decided to do it before we even knew that Mario Lopez might help us over the final obstacle.

The morning of the race.

It was a really fun race, just over 9 miles with obstacles throughout like climbing over tires, monkey bars; stairs; climbing over a bus etc.

The girls did a relay and the boys did the whole thing.

Me and my super hot hubby after the race.

After the race we walked an additional 7 miles seeing the sites.

like the bean.

This building they taped a section of Transformers here with cars coming out this building into the water.

Kamryn coloring her Chicago T-shirt we got her.

She's so talented.

After a summer of travels, we're staying in one place for a while. My parents will be happy to know. But the crazy has not stopped because tomorrow we're having a big birthday party for our big girl.

Thanks mom and dad for taking care of our angels so I can travel to fun places like Chicago. Perks of living close to amazing grandparents.

O-N-E

2010-10-05T14:51:00.000-07:00

I honestly CAN'T believe that our Dylan Slater is already one. This post is one month LATE, for a couple of reasons. Maybe I've been a bad mommy and went away over his birthday or maybe it's because I've tried to avoid it; because my baby couldn't possibly be 1, right?

I am loving how I'm getting glimpses of his sweet personality...

but I'm not loving how I have to chase this little man around everywhere. Yes, we walk the halls of church for 3 hours.

I finally came to my senses and realized that avoiding a party wouldn't mean he's not one

so we put on our party hats and blew out a candle.

He didn't really know what to make of all the attention and the cake

but after a couple of tastes he...

pretty much devoured it.

Kamryn's favorite part was the presents. Ok fine, my part too:)

It's taken Dylan exactly one year to realize that my dad is more of a teddy bear than a grizzly. But now they're BEST FRIENDS.

We're completely IN LOVE with this boy.

Believe me, you would be too.

He makes me want to do this all over again.

shhh. don't tell anyone I said that.

After Hours

2010-10-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

So for our date night I got really creative. Eric is usually the person in our relationship who buys the flowers, writes the letters, prepares bubble baths and is all 'round our BETTER half... but not on this date night. I was creative by putting our babies down and then starting our night after hours. After a particularly stressful week, I treated Eric to both a back and a foot massage.

And for the first time in our marriage I even pulled out the fondue we got as a wedding gift.

Creative; right?

I burnt the chocolate but Eric didn't care so niether did I:)

Eric loving his massage.

E and I have had fun dates all month, but this one was our favorite. I wonder why?

Because of my creativity...

We had so much fun that we have made a committment to do this EVERY month.

Next month it's Eric's turn to plan it.

I'm lucky to spend every date night with Eric. CHEERS:)

Australia Matey

2010-09-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

Twinkle Toes

2010-09-16T13:59:00.001-07:00

Kamryn is loving her new dance class. She loves getting her hair in a bun and glitter on her eyes and then showing off her new moves. I'm pretty much obsessed with her.

Kamryn and her best friend Montana.

Giving mommy the thumbs up

She's a natural.

Her class is my new favorite thing about Tuesdays.

Update

2010-09-01T23:03:00.000-07:00

Kamryn put a foreign object up her nose. Daddy had to race home, with all his special tools in hand, to play surgeon.

The foreign object. 3 smashed up stickers.

To prevent Kami from doing naughty things like putting a sticker way up her nose, I came up with a brilliant plan. A sticker board. She loves getting her stickers and when she has one weeks worth, she gets a reward. Another bonus, is she actually has a place to put the stickers other than up her nose:)

Kami and boy are best friends. This girl has his back. When I took Dylan to get his shots, Kami was heartbroken and said "Mommy, how could you let them do that to him."

The happiest boy. He looks just like his daddy.

Kami is such a great helper. She helped Daddy wash his favorite toy.

It has since been hurt. Eric was rear-ended on the way to work. That made for a very mad Eric.

Next week for the Lindseys:

Kamryn starts ballet/tumbling class

Dylan Slater has his first bday

Kamryn starts preschool

Eric and I will be surfing the waves in Australia:).

Family Night

2010-08-16T22:02:00.000-07:00

My favorite thing to do is spend time with my family. I'm such a lucky mommy to get to stay home with my babies. Next month our baby boy will have his first birthday! Seriously I feel like we just met him. I'm afraid to blink my eyes because time is going by so fast.

Our blue eyed boy walked to his daddy when he came home from work today. He says "hi" and "dada". He loves playing with his sister and he tries his hardest to keep up with her.

Kami girl is getting ready to start preschool. Every morning she wakes up she wants to know the count down until she goes to school again.
I love my husband for coming home with a beautiful bouquet of flowers for me just because it's Monday. Mostly I love having family nights with this family, because to us, we matter most.

Lake Powell

2010-08-10T15:34:00.000-07:00

We had the best time at the lake. We did it all... hiking, swimming, laughing, exploring, skiing, reading, laying out, playing everything from cards to horseshoes and best of all; eating, eating and eating. Enjoy the pictures.

...'till next year lake powell. You did not disappoint.

Longing...

2010-07-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

for my refuge. Two long years have passed since we have been to Lake Powell. This is a place where I recharge my batteries and wonder at the beauty of God's creation. A place where we have one heck of a good time.

The wait ends Friday!!!!

100 and counting

2010-07-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

Dear summer sun,

please don't pass us by too quickly and ignore my cursing you when the weather is over 100. I actually love it and am going to miss days spent out by the pool.

Love,

the Lindseys.

This has been the most incredible summer, and it's about to get even better with a trip to Lake Powell with family and a couples retreat to Australia.

Family Pictures from Florida

2010-06-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

The resort we were staying at offered portrait packages, so we signed up. These are the ones that I didn't end up buying (the really good ones are in the mail). It was actually a really fun photo shoot.

I can't wait for the ones I paid for to get here.

Florida has a special place in my heart. I want to go back so badly.

Tribute

2010-06-20T20:54:00.002-07:00

To my amazing father who taught me all I know and continues to teach with his great example. To my other father who makes me smile and feel great whenever I'm near him. I love you both so much.

and to the most important father in my life...

who truly is the BEST father out there.

I'm so lucky to be surrounded by the men of such high caliber.

When was the last time...

2010-06-15T19:27:00.000-07:00

... someone you love took your breath away?

2010-06-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

We're so happy to finally be home. Auntie Cindy and Uncle Rob have not seen Kamryn swim yet so we went over to their apartment to show off our amazing swimmer. We had so much fun swimming and sitting in the jacuzzi.

After the fun, we dried off and went out to eat together. I love that my sister is out of school for the summer so that I can see her more often. I've missed her so much and love hanging out with her.

Part III of Vacation. Vegas

2010-06-06T21:29:00.001-07:00

So, for the final leg of our vacation we were in Vegas for a few days. We stayed in a suite at the Trump hotel. It was fun but we were itching to go home, even Kamryn kept saying that she missed her home. Cute huh?

Kami swam the entire length of this pool and back, without any help. I've never been prouder.

We took Kamryn to Circus Circus to ride all the rides, she had a blast and kept saying "thank you daddy for taking me to the circus".

The Frog hopper, she went on 3 times. She said that was her favorite ride beause it "tickled my tummy"

We ate at my favorite restaurant in Vegas, Vintner Grill. It was amazing and the best part was boy was sleeping and Kamryn was quiet watching a movie on her Ipod, so Eric and I had no interuptions in our cabana.

While Eric worked I took Kami and Boy to Siegfried and Roy's Secret Garden. She loved it. Highly recommend it in the Mirage Hotel.

We saw dolphins, lions, leopards, and tigers.
After traveling across the counnty with two kids and more luggage than we could carry, we have never been happier to get back home.
Still we had a fun and busy time away. I love spending quality time together with my beautiful family.

p.s. While I was away my mother woke up at 4:30 in the morning on June 1st to go stand in line to get kamryn in the preschool I really wanted her in. There were only 5 spots available and the registration was only open to the public on June 1st. The things that lady does for me and our kids just blows my mind. I don't deserve her.

A day with Grandpa Jay

2010-06-06T16:16:00.000-07:00

We flew from Florida to Vegas and then drove to St. George UT to spend time with Eric's grandpa along with all his children, grandkids and great grandkids. It was so fun to see everyone.

Kami giving grandpa Jay kisses at the park

Late nights we would put the babies to sleep and then pile on Tom and Nan's bed to talk and play games.

What good daddys

showing off the goods... Mike has nice gamms.

All the great grandkids under 4

Kami submits Dylan with a rear naked choke.

The highlight of Dylan's trip (and papa) : Shaved ice.

Kick ball team mates.

Kami not drowning in the lazy river.

Our low of the trip: Saying goodbye :(.

We love you Grandpa Jay.

The Sunshine State

2010-05-30T07:07:00.000-07:00

We spent a little over a week in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The city is known as the Venice of America with all the waterways and canals making it nearly completely accessible via water. We fell in love with the city.

Our babies playing in the sand

Water Taxi

The clear blue ocean was gorgeous but our one complaint was the lack of waves to surf
So we did what anyone who was desperate to play in the water would do, and rented paddleboards.
Daddy took Kami out to share his love for the ocean

she was so proud of herself for catching the waves.

Our guess is that we're going to have another surfer in the Lindsey Family.

We saw some rediculous homes on waterfront with even more rediculous yachts parked in the back. The beach in front of the hotel

Boy playing in the sand in Miami Beach.

The pool at the resort was awesome. Kami is quite the swimmer now. I'll post a video later, she's amazing.

Kamryn made a lot of friends.

I'm not sure how exactly but she picked up a lizzard and held it for a couple of minutes until it jumped off her and scurried out of the hands of a toddler.

The museum of Discovery and Science

petting a sea urchin

A complimentary treat in the lobbly

Breakfast with Spongebob and Dora

Sorry for the picture overload, I actually tried narrowing it down. We had the best time and this is one place we will definitely go back to visit.

Our Little swimmer

2010-05-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

Wine Country

2010-05-17T14:02:00.001-07:00

Eric and I spent a relaxing weekend in Napa Valley. If you've never been to Napa and Sanoma we highly recommend it, just make sure to pack your allergy medication.

Adrienne, JD and Maddie came to swim with us on Friday night.

We had a blast swimming with Maddie Girl

We walked in the vineyards

and had stunning sunset views.

For Eric's birthday we played golf together.

I played a couple of holes then decided it would be more fun taking pictures of Eric.

Golf is the most frustrating sport. Every one in one hundred swing goes where you want it to go but the rest of the time it goes the opposite direction. The one good swing you happen to have makes you feel like Tiger Woods.

We had a fun, relaxing and romantic weekend. Happy Birthday E. You know how much I love you. Thank you to our amazing family who watched our babies for us this weekend. Jess and Mike you guys are so awesome for watching them when you had talks on Sunday that you had to prepare. We love you.

mini vacation

2010-05-11T14:47:00.001-07:00

We went to Disneyland with our good friends the Rogers. We stayed in the Disneyland hotel and had amazing views of the pools and park. We ate breakfast with some Disney characters, we rode the rides and watched the girls play together. We had a blast at the happiest place on earth and this trip made me want to get a season pass. Stacy are you in? Enjoy the pictures.

motherhood

2010-05-03T22:19:00.000-07:00

As we celebrate the nobility of motherhood on Sunday I've been thinking about why I love being a mommy. When I am have green marks on my new carpet from boy's spit up and Kamryn is being a little smarty pants, I have wonder if it is worth it?

Then I take one look at this smile and get my answer.

The highlight of my day is when my boy does something for the first time.

...or when we play hide 'n go seek

and giving my baby his baba.

Saving him from almost falling down the stairs and out his rocker makes me feel like a hero.

he knows that this face will melt my heart and I'll give him WHATEVER he wants.

Seeing the beautiful person my daughter is turning out to be makes me the happiest mommy in the world. Because I had a lot to do with that.

The funny moments between the spit up and tantrums are just priceless.

I am my kids' mom.

Now I'm going to give my sleeping babies kisses and get some much needed rest.

I hope EVERYONE has a wonderful mother's day!

Easter

2010-04-05T13:14:00.000-07:00

The whole of last week I was excited about Easter. Spending holidays with children is so much fun because it's like you experience it through your child's eyes. Easter did not disappoint. Kamryn woke up Easter morning running into our room saying "mommy come quick and see what the easter bunny left me."

A basket overflowing with goodies.

Yes that is chocolate on her mouth before we even brushed teeth.

boy ate his vegetables instead of chocolate.

side note: Dylan has his first tooth and is scooting around. We can't believe how big our boy is now.

Finding eggs.

Kami and Montana filling their baskets.

Thanks for inviting us over Stacy.

We really missed our families with weekend. We were planning on driving to see family down South but Eric had his first tennis match (which he won), so we weren't able to surprise them. Easter turned out great because my friend invited us over to spend Easter with her awesome family so we weren't lonely. This week I'm hitting the gym hard to make up for those Cadbury easter eggs I ate.

Girls Only

2010-04-05T11:17:00.001-07:00

Kami girl had the best week with her cousins. As usual we crammed a lot in one week. They went to the movies and pump it up and the park. Here are some pictures I took of my babies.

After a week together. Kami cried when Katie and Sharon had to go home. Secretly so did I.

Terrible twos...

2010-03-23T14:13:00.003-07:00

...ain't got nothing on me.

Eric says she looks like the Joker. What do you think?

Springtime in CA

2010-03-15T09:58:00.001-07:00

Spring in California is unpredictable. Friday we were in the snow, Saturday was cold and windy and Sunday was sunny and beautiful. This weekend we got to enjoy the weathers. On Friday we hit the slopes. Eric prepped Kamryn and he spent the day skiing with her, while I tried to remember how to snowboard, it's been two years folks. Luckily papa was there to help me. I didn't get any pictures of our little pro going down the hills but she was by far the cutest, smallest girl out there. She did awesome. Hopefully we'll get another chance to go this season.

Sunday was so beautiful outside so after church we had to soak up the sun. We packed a lunch, picked up Kamryn's bf and went to the park.

We love playing with Dylan.

I was asked twice if Kami and Montana were twins. Most of the time they act like it.

The girls ate two bites of their sandwich and shared the rest of it with the ducks.

Eric practiced painting.

I wish I could have an ounce of the talent that this guy has.

bff.

Mondays are so hard to get back into the routine. I feel overwhelmed with all the phone calls and planning I have to do. Yet here I am blogging instead of working. Better get to it. Hope everyone has a great week.

half a year

2010-03-10T14:07:00.001-08:00

Dylan is 6 months old. I am LOVING this age and know that it only gets better now.

He keeps tabs on me and needs to know where I am at all times. If he can see me, then he's fine laying on the ground and scooting, but if I walk out of sight he cries.

He is SO different than Kamryn was at this age. We had to trick Kami into getting her picture taken but with boy all he has to do is see the camera and he's ready to smile.

We have introduced solids to the little man and his favorite is carrots. YUM.

He still loves his pacifier and hates his car seat.

He loves going to the park with his sister. He starts kicking his legs in excitement when he sees the swing.

We're still working on his grip.

And this picture of Kami was too cute not to share.

I can't believe that my Dylan is 6 months old. Time is going by too fast. I am SO in love with my son.

Come on in.

2010-03-08T17:30:00.000-08:00

Travels

2010-02-23T21:50:00.000-08:00

This last month we have traveled to Salt Lake City, Orange County and Las Vegas. The frequent flyer points are stacking up. We went to Utah to meet our new, perfect nephew Kyle and party with Sharon.

The Birthday girl

these little guys are so cute.

Kamryn + Sharon = TROUBLE

We stayed there for a week and these two are partners in crime.

Kami loved staying with her cousins for a whole week.

Eric drove all the way just for the blessing and party and then he left us there so that we could play for the week. Oh how I missed my sexy man.

Then we flew from Utah to Southern Cal. for Maddison's 1st birthday bash. Adrie knows how to throw a party.

Boy had solids for the first time. Green beans and even though based on this picture you would never believe it, he didn't like it. Maybe it was just too early because he hasn't had solids since.

Then we went to Vegas for the World Cup Sevens Rugby. Garreth called and got Eric to come out there and play with his team. Eric took some really big guys down and everyone was impressed especially me. It was really fun watching Gar tear it up too. My wonderful parents sacrificed their valentines day for us by watching our babies for a few days. They're the best.

After one day of the girls watching our guys play we watched the professionals.

We spent Valentines day watching Rugby. Sound Romantic?

In a way it really was.

We had a blast in Vegas.

Actually we had fun with all our travels, but we are so happy to be home in our new house. We're in love with it and I'll post pictures soon.

My Samantha from South Africa

2010-02-15T09:53:00.000-08:00

My dear Sammy,

this is my open love letter to you because sometimes, love is best expressed in front of the world. You light up my world and bring joy and purpose to everything I do. I love that you are my biggest fan. You think I'm wonderful and it makes me feel wonderful. You are the best mother and wife and girlfriend and lover a man could ever imagine. I am so lucky to have you. Happy Valentine's Day my love.

Your Eric

faces

2010-01-27T11:58:00.000-08:00

I love having this boy in my life. I'm soooo crazy about him and here are some reasons why.

CHARMING

EASY GOING

TAUNTING
COMICALmy personal favorite
FUNNY

Boys Trip

2010-01-20T10:47:00.000-08:00

For Eric's christmas gift I got him tickets to visit his brother in Colorodo.
Tom and Eric flew in together and Bryce picked them up. They checked out out Bryce and Sarah's new house and played with Briggs.

Eric wore many layers of clothes to prepare himself for the freezing cold while he raced down the slopes.

They had fun talking business and politics and leaving girls out of conversation.

They didn't worry about grossing girls out with their farts.

Breckenridge, CO

The boys lived off shaved ice for the weekend. Eric says it was like nothing he'd ever tasted, and might fly there once a month to sample the shaved ice.

The cutest boy of all... Briggsie. The only thing missing was Dylan, but he'll be big enough soon to do fun boy trips.

Looks like fun huh girls. We should plan a little trip of our own :).

Boy

2010-01-20T10:34:00.000-08:00

Our boy is four months old.
He loves his Bumbo chair and watches my every movement in the kitchen.

All you have to do to get this kid to smile is look directly at him.

He loves taking baths with his sister.

Dylan Slater you are adorable.

Kyle Daniel Combs

2010-01-20T10:06:00.000-08:00

Introducing the newest member of our family...

Kyle

7lbs 14 oz

20 inches
born: 1/18/2010

Kyle we love you already. Melissa, we're so proud of you for doing it au naturale. You're amazing.

Beeeelated Christmas Pictures

2010-01-13T21:08:00.000-08:00

Christmas last year was fabulous. We spent time with my family; playing games, watching movies, running and playing soccor. Here are some pictures of our christmas.

Ouma and oupa bought Kami Girl this rad quad.

Uncle and Aunty Jess spoiled Kami too with her very own scooter

We went carolling this year. We weren't much to listen too, except when Katie took over and gave every body a solo rendition of Rudolph the red nosed reindeer.Kami girl couldn't go to sleep on Christmas eve, she was so excited for the next day. She finally fell asleep at 2am.

Katie loves Dillmister.

Oupa bought Dylan his very own car. He's going to love it.

Eric got some fun things in his stocking this year.

The kids enjoyed finding it and eating it.

Jess also got some fun things in her stocking.

Eric got ties in his stocking and I got sunglasses.

Mom catered to us all week. She spent everyday cooking and cleaning for us.

Santa stopped be to take pictures with unwilling babies.

The guys didn't want to sit on Santa's lap.

Most of the fun over Christmas was watching these girls play together.

Best Buds

Katie is our diva.

These guys played soccor. Jess was the MVP.

We had the best christmas. I love spending time with my family.

Now that I have the internet in our new house it won't be so long until the next post. I have a lot to catch up on.

Dear Family and Friends.

2009-12-24T08:57:00.000-08:00

We hope that this letter finds you all in good spirits and good health this joyous season. We feel like the year 2009 has gone by in the blink of an eye. We have been so blessed as our family has grown from three to four. Dylan Slater was born on 09/09/09. What a great day to be born! He is a really good baby, always smiling. He sleeps through the night (most nights) and rolls over. We love to hear his cooing sounds. We’re thankful for our healthy boy.

Kamryn started preschool this year. Her teacher loves her and recently told me at our parent teacher conference how well she is doing. She loves her friends and is really good at sharing. Kamryn is still a daddy’s girl. She loves doing crafts and is getting really good with her flashcards. Kami is always singing or talking, the only time it is quiet is when she takes a nap. She loves her brother, and now that he is more interactive she loves to make him smile. We’re so proud of our Kami Cakes for adjusting so well to having to share attention with Dylan.

Eric recently expanded his business of Ocular Prosthetics to Las Vegas. He travels there once a month to see patients in that area. His Sacramento Business is keeping him busy. He loves to take care of his patients. We’re so blessed because of Eric’s wonderful work ethic. This year he has surfed less than the year before. Eric ran the Deseret News Maration in Salt Lake City in July, he did it in a really great time. He loves having a little man around the house. He can’t wait to take him golfing and surfing.

I have been keeping busy playing mommy to my little ones and girlfriend to my husband. It has been quite the adjustment having two kids instead of only one. I’m lucky enough to have a helpful husband and parents who help me manage the sometimes crazy life. The crazy is going to be around for a while because we’re moving to Sacramento. We bought a house that fits our expanding family. We’re sad to leave all the friends we have made in Marysville but look forward to spending more time with eachother and less time on the road.

We’re so thankful to have friends and family like you who bless our lives. We hope that you have the most wonderful Christmas and may you remember our loving Savior this time of year.

Love,
Eric, Samantha, Kamryn and Dylan

Kami's last day at preschool

2009-12-24T08:45:00.000-08:00

The sad thing about moving away is leaving friends we have made and Kami's preschool. Here is a picture of Kami and her teachers on her last day. We love our big girl.

vegas baby

2009-12-21T09:34:00.000-08:00

We were in Vegas last weekend. Our days were spent working in the office and seeing patients, and our nights were spent playing. We went dancing, saw a show, and lost some money :(.

We stayed here.

Eric bought me a cast bronze elephant for our new home.

We ate at this place in the Wynn and all we got was fish with their bones and eyeballs. GROSS.

We went to see Cirque du soleil

La Reve

Some of the floats in the Botanical Gardens.

We had so much fun, and missed our babies. They stayed with their ouma and oupa and had more fun than we did. Check out what they did here. Merry Christmas everyone.

All Aboard

2009-12-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

Whoever needs a little kick in the butt to get into the holiday spirit should get tickets to the Polar Express. Wait; tickets sold out 6 hours after it went on sale, and we can see why. IT WAS FABULOUS.

We arrived in our pjs and got our boarding tickets. Took pictures with Santa's elf

Had some hot chocolate and cookies on our journey to the north pole.

Kamryn was so excited, she even got a polar express sweatshirt

We saw a really cool pirate ship go by us.

The man who hitches a ride on top of the train.

When we got to the North Pole it was snowing and Santa was reading his naughty or nice list.

Then he got on the train to visit with us and give gifts.

Kamryn was on Santa's NICE list this day.

So was boy

Kami girl in her pjs in front of the train

Eric and I wore pjs too, all the cool parents did!

This is going to be a tradition for our family.

Dear Santa, define naughty...

2009-12-11T10:28:00.000-08:00

Pretend City

2009-12-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

Some one had a genius idea to have a business where children can come and pretend to be whatever they want. Kamryn was a doctor, actress, construction worker, fireman, artist, chef and farmer in one afternoon. This place is amazing. Here are some pictures of our ambitious girl.

This was the amphitheater. It had lights and music and kids dancing and dressing up.

Kami and Grammy with the chicks.

Little man loved it too, kept looking at everything.

Kami making a sandwich at the Deli in the Grocery Store.

Paying for her groceries.

Getting some cash at the bank.

No indication of the kind of car she'll be driving.

Doctor Kami checking Grammy's blood pressure.

Water Play.

Farmer Kami picking apples.

Chef, her speciality... Vietnamese cuisine.

All of us in the "restaurant"

Construction worker.

These pictures don't really do this place justice. It's an entire "city" for children with beautiful imaginations. Thanks Grammy for taking us to this fun place.