Easton Family

What's in a Name?

2009-08-15T19:04:00.002-04:00

Everyone always asks me where the name Jamin comes from....and never believes it's a Bible name.
Jamin was one of the sons of Simeon according to Genesis 46:10, Exodus 6:15, Numbers 26:12 and many others. There was even a group called the Jaminites. He was one of the 70 souls to migrate to Egypt with Jacob. In Psalms 11:24, Jamin marries Princess Farzana of Libya. Jamin means right hand of God.
For Levi I found lots and lots of info... probably because there were several. Here's some things I didn't know: Levi was the name of the great-great grandfather of Jesus. Levi was the son of Jacob (who Jamin migrated to Egypt with) and was the younger brother of Simeon (the father of Jamin). Levi means associated with God, attached, or joining.

Happy Anniversary...

2009-08-14T21:41:00.003-04:00

to me!! and Spencer, of course. Another year married means another year apart. Hopefully next year will be different. You'd think after five years of marriage, we would have spent at least one anniversary together! oh well, seems silly to celebrate only one day of the year anyway. I was going to dig up some engagement and wedding pictures to post, but didn't have time today (see post below). So I'll have to leave the searching and scanning for another day. We pretty much look exactly the same anyway... still look great! I hope I can still say the same twenty years from now... Happy Anniversary Spencer!!

A Good Day

2009-08-14T21:23:00.008-04:00

We finally had a wonderful day...and out in public! I thought everyone would want to hear about it, since all I've been doing lately is complaining! Our friend, Kelly, invited us out to their cottage and we had tons of fun.
Jamin LOVED it. I don't know if he's ever had that much fun. And it was really nice because he could go way out into the water and it was still shallow - and warm! it was like bath water. And of course, he did go very far out. But I didn't get a picture because....

Levi HATED the sand and water. So I didn't get very many pictures at all because he was attached to my hip almost the entire time. I did manage to get him to smile a few times though. He didn't like the beach, but he did like:

watching everyone else having fun...

hangin' out in the hammock...

and, of course, playing with Rufus the dog (they both love him!)

It was a really good day. We finally ALL had fun for once. And their cottage is beautiful! I need to go back even if it's just to get pictures - it's exactly what I want my house to look like. I definitely hope to go back again. We'll have to invite ourselves back once Spencer is home!
Thanks Kelly for inviting us out! And thanks for the help with the kids, Melinda!

WHAT?!?

2009-08-12T13:13:00.002-04:00

I just got a surprise visit from CPS. (if you're wondering why, read my post in June) Anyways, the lady says she just needs to "look" at my kids. Jamin was on the couch watching a movie so she just glanced at him and asked about Levi. Levi was taking a nap, so I took her upstairs to "look" at him. And guess what she says? "I can't tell if he's breathing or not, could you touch his foot to see if he moves" WHAT?!? I didn't even know what to say, I just went downstairs and opened the door for her to leave.
I don't even know where to start, I could go on for hours. Is this lady for real? She actually thinks I would leave my dead son in his bed and let her look at him? I still have no idea what to even say. I'm in shock. Absolutely appalled. I hope and pray she's never found a dead baby in someone's house. I'm going to stop now and leave it at that.

Insane

2009-08-11T18:50:00.003-04:00

I tried taking my kids to the pajama story time at the library tonight. What a NIGHTMARE! We were there for less than five minutes and had to get back in the car and leave. Every time I try to do something for THEM they end up ruining it. This happens quite often, actually pretty much anytime we go anywhere. It is SO frustrating. So, someone, please hunt down my husband and drag him home before I end up in a PADDED ROOM!!

Spoiled...

2009-08-11T13:00:00.005-04:00

Lately I've had the worry that my kids are going to turn into horrible, spoiled little brats. It's just so hard taking care of them alone... sometimes it's easier to give in than to deal with another double-teamed temper tantrum. There's still time to turn things around (I hope) they're still young and they're not really "spoiled" they're just not very well behaved when we're in public. Maybe things will be easier once Spencer comes home, it's hard being the comforter and enforcer at the same time...he'll have to take over one of those roles. I just really, really don't want to end up with...

an Augustus Gloop...

or a Dudley Dursley...

any advice?

PICTURES, PICTURES, PICTURES

2009-08-06T15:39:00.017-04:00

Alright, everyone has been bugging me for pictures of my kids, so I took my camera with me when we went to the park today. More will come later, but these will have to do for now.
First, I have to apologize because there are so many pictures, I didn't have time to crop them, I just shrunk them down so they wouldn't take 10 years to load.
Secondly, I have to apologize because they are wearing matching shirts. This was not on purpose to be cute or anything. Usually when we go to the park, I put them in very bright shirts so I can find them because they like to run off... but I need to do laundry so there weren't too many choices- I figured looking for the same shirt would be easiest, especially if I saw one, I would remember what the other was wearing.
I'm pretty sure you'll still be able to tell them apart... if not, sorry. The first pictures are Levi, then Jamin.

this one looks like he is taking a leak over the edge, but I promise he doesn't know how to do that yet!

Here's where Jamin starts...

2009-08-02T19:19:00.004-04:00

Last week, I was at a friend's house and we were watching 101 Dalmations... I mean the KIDS were watching 101 Dalmations. Anyways, someone mentioned that the guy on there looks like someone we know and he also plays the piano. And it made me remember something that a few of my friends have done before - you pick characters for each person based on how they look or their personality or BOTH. So we spent the next hour coming up with characters for people, BUT before you get too excited... the list isn't complete so don't look for yourself in this post! That post will be coming soon (let me know if you have suggestions). But I thought I would put my kids characters up because I've known theirs for quite some time.....

From the day he was born, LEVI has always, most definitely, been HEIMLICH from A Bug's Life...

...but he's been growing up and walking and losing all of his chub! He's been starting to transition into a CURIOUS GEORGE which is who I always had picked out for JAMIN.

I still kinda think Jamin is a Curious George BUT someone suggested that maybe JAMIN is DASH from The Incredibles- that makes sense too...

Hopefully I'll have a more complete list soon... I really need to figure out who Spencer is!

Counting down the days 'til...

2009-07-19T20:02:00.002-04:00

...Spencer comes home! (mid-August?)
...Levi is old enough for nursery (October)
...Jamin is potty trained (hopefully soon)
...my house is done (sometime in the next 5 years- fingers crossed)
...my kids learn the joy and importance of sleep
...I get to see my nieces and nephews again

I guess I shouldn't hope for time to go too fast...
then it will start snowing and I'll be counting down the days until it's sunny again!
Feel free to add to my list- I like having things to look forward to!!

( ) Broken?!?

2009-07-19T19:53:00.003-04:00

I did post this on Facebook, but not everyone is on there... and it was quite funny. (Mom, make sure you tell Grandma this story - she'll be laughing for days)

The other day, Levi had a check-up at the doctor. They checked his weight, height, eyes, ears... all the normal stuff. And then they checked in his diaper (which they also normally do) to check to see if everything is growing and in the right place... or whatever it is they're doing. Anyway, as soon as the doctor left the room, Jamin looked at me with a horrified look on his face and said "penis broken?!?" (yes, he knows the proper term) It was SO funny, especially coming from a two year old! But I had to try not to laugh because he really was worried about Levi... what a good big brother. And yes, Levi is fine- nothing is broken.

Eating Meat?

2009-07-19T19:49:00.003-04:00

Two of my friends, Suz and Margie, made a birthday cake for me. And because I'm a vegetarian, they thought it would be funny if I "ate meat"....so this is what they came up with:

I know, they're so talented and creative (and thoughtful), maybe some of that will rub off on me.

July 4th Weekend

2009-07-12T19:37:00.010-04:00

Here's some pictures from watching the fireworks over Boldt Castle.
Jamin loved it and got really excited every time one went off.

and here's Levi watching, but falling asleep... the poor kid was so tired by the time they started!

And here they are playing in our friend's backyard during a BBQ

24 things

2009-07-12T16:50:00.003-04:00

that you may or may not know about me...
in honor of my 24th birthday (I know, I'm so old)

1. I make my bed (almost) every day
2. my towels have to be folded a certain way and Spencer isn't allowed to do it
3. I finished High School 6 months early
4. we are debt-free, other than my house
5. I've never had my ears pierced
6. I've been to at least half of the states of the US
7. I've driven cross-country (CA-NY or NY-CA) 4 times
8. I love old, antique things - like our house!
9. I was the biggest baby out of 6
10. I know more train's names from Thomas than I would admit
11. in 2nd grade, I considered being President when I grew up
12. I love to read... when I can find the time and a good book
13. I haven't turned on my TV for over 3 months
14. I have the two cutest kids in the world!
15. I'm 24 and still can't swim
16. I love photography
17. sometimes I secretly think about how I would re-decorate other people's rooms
18. Spencer and I re-built our entire house ourselves
19. I started my own business (and now Spencer thinks he never has to work again!)
20. I have a wonderful husband who loves me
21. I can't stand bananas, but I like banana bread
22. I faint at the sight of a needle...even after two kids
23. I've never had the chickenpox, and I'm immune!
24. I secretly eat bacon every night before I go to bed (Just Kidding!)

this was just a quick list, so I'm sure I'm missing lots of things. Maybe I'll update it later... or maybe Spencer will add some embarrassing tid-bits in the comments...

Random Pictures from around the bazaar

2009-07-08T11:56:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone. Here are a few more pics. These ones are from a bazaar outside of an area I was working. Luckly the area is very calm and the police usually do a good job keeping the peace. Allows for us to take a few moments and actully enjoy the country.

Kind of a surreal moment sitting down in a real resturaunt in full gear.

Can you guys smell that? Lambchops, kabob, raisin pilaf, and Nan and much more..mmmmmmm. Would put a stupid grin on anyones face.

"Bridge over the river 'dry'", also in the lower left corner is a good example of local female garb

Brrraaaaiiiiiinnnnnssssss. Poor Private Smith cuts his finger and learns of the local Zombie problem....No just kidding it was M&Ms. Zombies LOVE M&Ms.

Warning an Airforce Airman of the dangers of the mobs that are Afghan childeren. Most just want some candy, but if the mob you fast you'll find that some have sticky fingers and gear will dissapear out of your pouches.

Enjoying fun morning of shopping!

The Bazaar...just pure shenanigans.

You are in a maze of twisty passages, all alike.

Old Town pics

2009-07-08T11:31:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone from Afghanistan. Yup I'm still here and doing my thing. I've got a few pics of what's going on overe here. These ones are from a trip to some ruins outside of an area I was working.

This is me giving some training to a soldier.

There are two of these towers in the area. Locals say they date to about 400 ad. They were spared by the taliban becuase of their uses as Minarets.

Me in front of one of the towers.

This is a view of the old town. It is still in very much use today.

Ok everyone. Ill post more pics later.

Reading Spot

2009-07-04T11:25:00.005-04:00

Jamin has been finding some interesting places to read his books.
This is one of his favorites - the bottom step of the stairs.
And I finally got a picture without him catching me!

Airshow

2009-07-03T20:12:00.002-04:00

Last Saturday was the Ft Drum Airshow.
Yes, we went.
Yes, I took my camera.
And Yes, I forgot to take pictures!
I'm getting pictures from a friend though, so hopefully those will be up soon.

Drive-In!

2009-07-03T20:05:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday night, Jamin, Levi and I went on a date to the Black River Drive-In and saw:but had to leave about twenty minutes into the second movie:

we did pretty good considering the first movie didn't even start until after nine o'clock!

Facebook

2009-07-03T19:53:00.002-04:00

So, I did it. I finally joined Facebook about three weeks ago. I think I'm probably the last person on the planet to do so.
So far, so good. I've found lots of my friends and it's amazing what you learn that you wouldn't know otherwise. And none of my worries have come to pass YET. I'm not addicted. I don't "camp-out". And I don't spend all day taking the million quizzes or playing the games.
I like this Facebook. I think I'll keep it. And if I haven't found you on there yet- find me! And if YOU are the last person on the planet that hasn't joined yet- do it!

CPS

2009-06-30T16:48:00.002-04:00

So, I got a visit from CPS today and came to the conclusion that I am an absolute SAINT!
From what they said and asked, here is their definition of a WONDERFUL Mother: provides a place for the children to sleep (doesn't have to be a bed) , has enough food for TWO (only two!) meals in the house, and doesn't excessively use alcohol or drugs in the house.
Are you kidding me?!? That's all it takes to be a good mom? I guess I have nothing to worry about!

Run-In with the LAW!

2009-06-29T18:49:00.003-04:00

Jamin had his first experience with the police today. I don't think he got to wear handcuffs or ride in the back of the police car, but he definitely got pulled over. Here's what happened...
I was driving a friend to the airport. Because of extra kiddos and luggage there was no room for Jamin and Levi. So they stayed home and my brother was SUPPOSED to be watching them. Right as we got to the airport, my brother called me and said that he couldn't find Jamin anywhere. How long he was gone is still unknown, but he came back with a sunburn (so probably longer than my brother will admit to) So I told him to keep looking for him and call me when he found him. In the meantime I was hoping and praying that he was at a neighbors house. We have several older neighbors and he calls them all Grandma and Grandpa and always wants to go visit them. But apparently none of them answered their doors so he just kept going. He made it pretty far...and he would have made it farther, but then the police stepped in and ruined all of his fun.
Now he is home and safe. And I'm just thrilled that Child Protective Services was called. The police assured me that nothing was wrong and I wasn't in any trouble- it's just required, standard procedure... but it doesn't exactly make me feel like a great parent either.

Levi is One!

2009-06-26T22:40:00.014-04:00

and has been for awhile (April 9th) I'm just slow at posting...
Spencer was randomly home for two days the week before Levi's b-day
so we threw together a cake and called our friends over!

and one of our BFF's, Christina, made Levi his own personal cake to destroy!

but he just poked at it and sucked his thumb, as usual...

but doesn't the frosting make that smile extra cute?

A few months late...

2009-06-26T22:16:00.010-04:00

Well, here's some pictures from Easter. They are a few months late, but hey, pictures of my cuties are worth the wait!

These first ones are from an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday at a friend's.

Levi waited inside because it was SO COLD outside (and still snow on the ground, in April!) He'll get the full experience next year though!

And these were the best we could do in the two minutes before church on Easter Sunday.

HEELLLPP!!!

2009-06-26T17:00:00.005-04:00

We just had a freak rain storm with
REALLY LOUD THUNDER and Jamin said that
DINOSAURS are coming for us!! Help!

for Spencer

2009-06-24T16:02:00.005-04:00

I finally took a video of Levi walking for you.
He even put his thumb in his mouth when he was done- with that look on his face "was that good enough mommy?"

WAGON!

2009-06-24T13:17:00.002-04:00

I finally got my kids a wagon! We've wanted one since last summer, but it just never happened. But I've also wanted a double stroller, so I thought this would do the job.
Jamin and Levi both LOVE going on walks... but I do NOT love chasing Jamin, so hopefully this will be the solution to my sanity.
We tried it out today (after a frustrating hour of putting it together) and they both seemed to like it, so we'll see how it goes!
Anyone want to go for a walk?

Flower Broken

2009-06-24T13:08:00.002-04:00

Jamin: "Oh no! Flower broken, mommy!"
Me: "Oh no. What are we going to do?"
Jamin: "I'll fix it."
Me: "Ok, Jamin. How are you going to fix it?"
Jamin: ...long pause... "um, Mommy fix it. ok, mommy fix flower."

Updates from Spencer

2009-05-21T14:17:00.003-04:00

Hey Everyone,
Just wanted to drop a quick note and let ya guys know I'm doing OK. Work keeps me very busy. And now that summer is here not only is my job keeping me occupied but the stupid Taliban are making their attempts also. Below are a few pics from a convoy I was on yesterday. Ill preface it with, everybody was OK. Some poor NATO allies probably have some mad ringing in their ears, but that was the worst of it.

This is what we've been rolling around in, the Mine Resistant Ambush Protection vehicle or MRAP. Our truck was a good 300 meters down the road from the explosion.
This is the hole left in the ground, the IED was placed in a culvert that run under the Highway. You can't really tell from this pic but the crater is about 10 feet across and 4/5 feet deep. It was a big sucker. And of course some dummy thinks his little AK can stand up to 50 caliber machine guns, fully automatic grenade launchers, and our NATO buddies' 30 MM cannons. Edit: Cant get the video to upload sorry :( Above a terp scambles to take cover as aformentioned dummy took a few pot shots at us.Taking cover behind the massive slabs of asphalt that was displaced by the IED. We found 20-30 lbs chucks of asphalt 500 meters from the site.

Well it seems its going to be an interesting summer. I'm gunna do everything I can to make sure our great men and women in uniform have the best and most reliable tools to capture and kill terrorists where ever they are.

Spence

a month with no posts!

2009-04-06T22:48:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it's been almost a month since we last posted! Not a whole lot has happened. We've continued to rip apart our duplex (unfortunately that "we" hasn't included me lately) Spencer left for two weeks to do National Guard training in Arizona...and then got a call that he had to leave for Afghanistan (again) two days after he got home. Boo!
So, here's the deal.. I PROMISED Spencer that I would be better with the blog so he would know what's going on. So expect lots more updates and lots more pictures!
Soon to come: pictures of our "project" or "the money pit" or "eyesore in front of our house"
Also, pictures of the kids, because they're too cute to not show off (and it's Levi's birthday on Thursday...hooray for turning one, halfway to the terrible twos!)
And hopefully there will be a few updates from Spencer too (minus the scary beard pictures)

Playing in Nor-Cal

2009-03-10T23:09:00.001-04:00

The fun didn't stop when we stopped and saw everyone in Northern California.

We played at the Monterey Aquarium..yes Jamin did get all soaked at the Hands-On exhibits.

We got to demo the amazing shrinking gun on Jamin and Lauren!

Mad driving skills here.

Playing golf at MY museum in Monterey....

That is just one of 1 of 12 wheels on that train.

Chillin' at the Sacramento Train Museum.

And of course Thomas. Notice the tunnel vision.

Even Levi was getting into Thomas....in a Godzilla kinda way.

Christmas in January and more of the artist Jamin

2009-03-10T22:48:00.001-04:00

Because I was gone over the Holidays we ended up having Christmas when I came home.

CARS!!!

Levi getting in on the action.

Another electronic toy that makes sound!

Jamin LOVES to use the camera, here are a few recent shots.

Dang cute pic.

Is he still wearing that old ratty Army fleece? Gross.

The Parks

2009-03-10T22:38:00.001-04:00

While down in Southern California we took the little guys to some of the parks. They pretty much had the best time.

It was a little wet, but there were still lots of smiles.

Jamin still remembers Mickey :)

Finding Nemo was one of the favorite rides.

The grandparents did some babysitting letting us go ride some of the roller coasters.

Off to Lego Land with Jamin and Wyatt.

Vader stood little chance!

Yes, my sons obsession in Lego form.

Getting ready for the 3-D show.

Family Picture Round Up

2009-03-10T22:20:00.001-04:00

We've been little bad bout updating the blog so here we go! While on our awesome vacation in CA we got together with all the families to get some pics done.

Christine, Spencer, Levi and Jamin

Christine, Spencer, Rachael, Jonathan, Elisabeth, Jason, Jamin, Peter, Levi, Addisyn, Donna, Lauren. Missing Steven, Debra, Kathleen, and Jason Fagan

Levi and Jamin

Susan, Sarah, Mike, Lizzy, Sandy, Stew, Stephanie, Steve, Christine, Spencer, Samantha, Gavin, Jack, Wyatt, Jamin, Levi

Home at Last

2009-01-15T16:29:00.003-05:00

Just to update everyone...Spencer is finally home. Yeah! He got home late Monday night. Jamin was a little weirded out at first, but all is well now. The boys finally opened their Christmas presents on Tuesday morning and LOVED it. My three kids have been having lots of fun bonding- so cute. I'll have lots of pictures later...we're also going home to visit for a while and I CAN'T WAIT to see my neices and nephews. I'll keep everyone updated. And don't worry, I won't forget the pictures- I know that's why everyone is here anyways!

Spencer Update!

2009-01-09T09:43:00.005-05:00

I got an e-mail from Spencer this morning. He's sitting at a passenger terminal trying to get on a flight. If all goes well, hopefully he'll be at the next location tomorrow or the next day and then be able to catch his flight back into the wonderful US of A. We'll see what happens! As of right now, he should still be home on Monday. Jamin and I are hoping he looks more like this when he comes home, rather than his scary pictures a few posts back. Jamin doesn't even recognize him...and I'd rather not admit that I do either!

2009-01-07T14:15:00.007-05:00

I was going through some pictures from when Spencer was in Afghanistan last time and found a few more good reasons to be a vegetarian. Spencer got sick from the food a few times...I think you'll see why (just so you know, the Afghans don't use TP, if you know what I mean) I will warn you though, if you have a weak stomach or want to continue to enjoy eating hamburgers...you might not want to look.

Where in the World is Spencer?

2009-01-07T13:20:00.004-05:00

Well, Spencer still isn't home yet. Most of you know he was supposed to be home on the 5th (two days ago). But that didn't happen....I swear, these guys are worse than the Army! No communication whatsoever. We haven't had a phone call from Spencer for over three weeks (yes, that includes Christmas and New Years). So on Monday, when Spencer was scheduled to come home, I tried calling two different guys from his work....and nothing, neither one of them called back.
So, after a few hours of lying to myself...for some reason I thought he might just show up and surprise me, no such luck... I finally called the airline to see if he got on his flight. Turns out that his flight was changed to Monday, the 12th. A whole week later! That doesn't sound like a long time, but I've been sick since Saturday night so I was definitely ready for Spencer to be home. We still have a few days left...unless his flight gets changed again.....

when mommy is sick...

2009-01-07T12:51:00.004-05:00

What do we do when mommy is sick?
-we stay in our pajamas for days and days
-we finally decide to play nicely together...
-while trashing the house as much as possible
-we find the chocolate stash
-and we count down the days until daddy comes home!

Cheesy Beards!

2008-12-30T08:42:00.006-05:00

The beard is SOOOO bad it almost reaches the realm of awesome!

The Cheesy Beard.....an elegant weapon for a more civilized age.

Here are a few of the weapons we have collected. Yes that is a live AT4 thank you very much!

One of my personal weapons, a Baretta 9mm.

This is a shot in my workshop. It may not seem like much, but it's probably one of the best in the entire country.

Well hello everybody! I happned to be checking my email this evening and saw I was getting a 2Kbs connection to the internet! I thought of all the cool things I could do with a Dial-up modem speed and decided to upload a few pics! I should be back state side within a week(fingers crossed!) so I hope to see you all very soon.

Christmas

2008-12-26T01:37:00.006-05:00

Christmas morning we went to the Thueson's for breakfast. We had fun and everything was yummy (even though the eggs had cinnamon & garlic in them). We also played their new game Buzz Word - lots of fun, I highly recommend it. And for dinner, we went over to Marla's. That was yummy too and we watched one of my many favorite Christmas movies - Elf. If you haven't seen it, you need to, it's hilarious! I'm glad we have such good friends to spend Christmas with! They did a good job of helping us forget we didn't get to open any presents yet!
Christmas morning, I also attempted to get pictures of my adorable kids, since I Always forget! I got pictures, but every one of them turned out silly. I even tried to get myself in one...that didn't work either.

Christmas Eve

2008-12-26T01:23:00.006-05:00

As you can tell from my other posts, I forget to take pictures a lot...I either remember right before we finish something or leave somewhere or I don't remember at all. But I share what I have, and steal pictures when I can...so maybe I'll have more pictures of everything later.
For Christmas Eve we went to the Bush's house for dinner. They are some of our best friends here. I can't really describe them in a short post...Ann is pretty much crazy and, as you can see, her kids are too! Her husband, Chris, is pretty normal though. They invited a few other families too and we had lots of fun (and ate really well) We were going to go Christmas Caroling, but it ended up raining...I think the guys were actually relieved.

getting into Christmas

2008-12-26T00:59:00.008-05:00

We decided to postpone Christmas until Spencer gets home (Jan 5th, I hope) so he can see the boys open their presents. But even without presents, we still did lots of fun Christmas stuff!
On Monday night we had a really fun family home evening with our friends. We did a board game gift exchange and attempted to make gingerbread houses. They may not have turned out the best, but it was entertaining...my friend took pictures of our "gingerbread village" but she didn't send them yet so here's just mine and Jamin's.....

On Tuesday, Jamin made cupcakes. He cracked the eggs, poured everything in, mixed it together, he did everything! He even smashed candy canes to put on top (that was his favorite part) They ended up tasting really good...even though he was licking his fingers the whole time.

Later that night, we went over to our friend's for dinner. That was lots of fun. It was the Halls, the ones I mentioned earlier who sing amazingly. Jamin always loves to go over there because Connor is into Thomas the train too and has lots of cool toys. And Kiersten and Kaylee are always great with the kids, they'll make good moms someday.

Wonderful Week!!

2008-12-26T00:52:00.002-05:00

My horrible week transitioned into a pretty good next week. One of my new friends, Susana, got baptized (yeah!). I'm so glad I got to be there for it, it was a wonderful experience. And her new fiance got to be there too, they got married on Christmas Eve (Congratulations!)
And then, on Sunday, Church was wonderful. It was mostly music...everything sounded good, but my favorite was our friends Chris and Kiersten Hall. They sang and sounded amazing! Kiersten is only 12 but she's one of the best singers I've heard. They were the only ones who brought me to tears (and that's pretty hard to do)
And of course, this week was Christmas - also wonderful, but that will be a post of it's own!

Worst Week!!

2008-12-26T00:36:00.004-05:00

So, the week started out good...Haylee came over and we had a slumber party - that was fun!

...but the fun didn't last long. We had a pipe freeze and then burst when it thawed in our duplex. So there was a huge waterfall coming down from the ceiling, probably for days. And the water had to drain somewhere...through the heating vent and into the furnace - I'm not gonna count on that working anymore! Don't worry, the water is turned off completely so that won't happen again any time soon.
And then, I went to Lowes to pick up some stuff...large things, so I took our truck. It made it there fine without any problems. But then, it wouldn't start when I tried to leave. I had three guys out there trying to figure it out, but no luck. So I had to haul everything back inside, return it, and hitch a ride home. Still not sure whats wrong with the truck...it's still sitting in the parking lot at Lowes...
Then, later in the week, another surprise happened. For some reason, Levi woke up in the middle of the night. So I went to make him a bottle...and no water came out when I turned the sink on. In case you're wondering, no, it's not fun finding out your house has no water in the middle of the night while trying to make a bottle. The pipes into our house all froze so it was a day-long process fixing it to be able to take a shower, brush teeth, wash dishes, and do laundry again.
What a horrible week, I'm hoping it can only get better because it can't get much worse. I think maybe all of this is happening so I'll appreciate Spencer more when he comes home!

Winter Sucks

2008-12-20T20:55:00.001-05:00

For those of you who don't live in upstate NY, this is what it's like...

I know it's not Thanksgiving anymore, but be thankful!!

Santa? Santa Who?

2008-12-13T21:30:00.004-05:00

Last night was our ward Christmas party. And guess who was there? Santa! As you can see Levi was totally fascinated and Jamin could care less, he was only worried about the candy canes. One of our friends was taking pictures too, so hopefully he got a better shot!

Future Photographer

2008-12-13T21:18:00.008-05:00

Jamin found my camera again. I really think he may be a photographer some day. He went with more of a creative view this time...more abstract. He covered all the important stuff: Levi eating, a cheerio that Levi dropped on the floor, and mommy sitting on the couch...the life of a photographer is just so exciting!

Gas is less than $2!

2008-12-10T23:09:00.003-05:00

I can't believe how cheap gas is! The other day, I only paid $1.92...and today I saw it for $1.88. I don't know that I've EVER paid that little for gas. I can remember (older) people saying "I remember when gas hit $1 and I thought that was so expensive" That would be cool if it went below a dollar again, but I'll even settle for it never going above two dollars again. Wishful thinking...I know...but we can dream, right?

Domestic Graffiti!

2008-12-10T01:01:00.003-05:00

For those of you who don't know...Domestic Graffiti is the name of the vinyl business that I started with my friend Margie. I may be partial, but it's awesome! Our website is finally up...there are still a few kinks to work out so it's still somewhat under construction. But check it out and tell me what you think! www.shopdomesticgraffiti.com

What a good big brother!

2008-12-10T00:59:00.003-05:00

Jamin thought he would be helpful and give Levi some more cheerios. I don't think Levi was as hungry as Jamin thought....and he's supposed to be on a diet!

ashes, ashes.....

2008-12-10T00:54:00.003-05:00

Jamin loves to do ring around the rosy. One day, I caught him doing it like a ballerina...twirling around in a circle singing "ashes, ashes" until he realized that I was watching him - then he got mad and said "no!"

Jamin found my camera...and my boots!

2008-12-10T00:49:00.006-05:00

Surfs Up! & Trick or Treat

2008-12-10T00:39:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Jamin!

2008-12-10T00:24:00.008-05:00

Jamin was a surfer for Halloween so that was the theme of his costume birthday party. I don't have very many pictures...the morning of the party I went and bought new batteries for my camera, but they were rechargeable batteries..which I now know are not pre-charged. These are pictures I stole from my friends blog. (thanks Roxanne!)
ps- didn't I do a fabulous job on the cake?

And what 2 year old wouldn't want to help open presents?

Jamin is such a ladies man. I don't know where he learned that...maybe he bribed them with cake!

We're Still Alive!

2008-12-05T13:38:00.004-05:00

Yes, we are still here. No, we are not ignoring anyone. And we are still alive. We've been very busy lately...and for those of you who don't believe me, I made a list of the top 10 reasons why we've been MIA for the past several months
not in any particular order:
1. I'm currently a single mom (thanks Spencer)
2. I have a 2 year old (love him, but he's crazy)
3. I have an 8 month old (4 teeth + 4 more coming= long days)
4. My new vinyl business (yeah for me and Margie...& KC)
5. Our (now my) real estate ventures
6. For some reason, my dishes and laundry never stay done
7. And my house never stays clean either!
8. New York Winters
9. Did I mention I have a 2 year old? (yes, that counts as 2 reasons)
and last but not least...
10. Everyone is busy, aren't they?

Me and the boys

2008-10-19T14:07:00.002-04:00

Jamin's Pre-Birthday Party

2008-10-19T12:24:00.009-04:00

This party was pretty much for me. While I'm over here in Afghanistan I'm missing a bunch of cool things, like Jamin's Birthday(which is today!) So our friends decided to throw him a bash so I could attend before I left.

Here's most of the little guys all decked out in their Halloween costumes.

Jamin's awesome cake! We have some creative friends who know how to put that to good use!

A beach cake? Its SEE-Food!!

Cake? What cake? I have no idea what you are talking about?

Hehe. I really don't remember what Jamin was so excited about, but man he is into it. I'm sure thats Levi's "Mom, get me out of here!" face :).

Easton is 5th groups newest ODA member specializing in awesome. Hes pretty much the US's answer to the war on terror. (ps: That is most defiantly NOT a costume from a teddy bear , oh wait yea it is :)

Here is Madelin showing off here new Lai and hula skirt made at the party. Pretty cool.

Showing off!

2008-09-28T21:33:00.001-04:00

This is what happens when four toddlers get together and one of them is Jamin and the other three are girls...he shows off! (not that he has anyone to compete with, he gets all the girls and he knows it)

Getting the most out of our last few days of summer

2008-09-28T21:19:00.001-04:00

Jamin and Addie playing at the Splash Park at Ft. Drum.

Hey Liam! Look in that hole! I promise nothing will squirt you in the face.

Where does all the water go?

Haylee and Jamin enjoying an afternoon treat.

Levi Steals the Show

2008-09-28T21:08:00.001-04:00

Levi getting some Great-Gram love at Uncle Larry's house. Great-Gram Maxine loves to hold him even if her arms are about to fall off by the end of the day.

Mommy has a new laundry buddy! Levi loves to help her and ride in the basket just like Jamin used to. (Jamin still likes to help but he is too big for the basket now!)

DROP! and give me 20!
Levi's been trying to build his muscles and get rid of his chubs because he's supposed to be on a "diet".

A long trip to visit my cousins

2008-09-28T20:59:00.001-04:00

Here's Jamin with some of his cousins during our visit to Uncle Larry's house.

Rocking out on cousin Crystal's electric piano.

Jamin HATES to get his nails cut :)

Fun with the Grandmas

2008-09-28T20:51:00.001-04:00

Grandma Easton come out to visit the boys for a few days back in July. Everybody had a great time even if I only had a few hours to visit before I had to leave.

We all got together with Christine's Mom and Grandma at her uncles house in Virginia. They both loved seeing the boys and we all enjoyed our short visit.

Just Plain Awesome

2008-09-28T20:38:00.001-04:00

What more can I say! The picture says it all. Well, I grew out my beard a while back and took some artistic liberties shaving it off. Christine let me keep this bad boy for about 1/2 second.

Sunday Afternoon Walk

2008-07-06T23:02:00.000-04:00

Jamin loves going to the trail and throwing rocks in the river	And Levi is content with just sitting and watching him do it
Levi testing the waters ...	And Jamin copies, of course!

And when we make it to the trail, Jamin always tries to run ahead

A Day with a Friend

2008-07-05T22:44:00.000-04:00

Jamin and Madeline spent the day trying to take pictures of each other. They had lots of fun..

...I think they tired out poor Levi though...he was pooped after a long day of crazy kids!

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-04T22:27:00.000-04:00

Getting excited about seeing the fireworks.

The fireworks over Boldt Castle were amazing!

Multi-Tasking

2008-07-03T22:01:00.000-04:00

Jamin was getting ready to take a shower and decided he needed to catch up on his reading while he tried going potty. Now he always leaves his book on top of his toilet, so it's there when he needs it.

Mmmmmm Pudding!

2008-07-02T23:50:00.000-04:00

Mmmmm, I'm glad I helped mommy mix the pudding...
I get to lick the whisk!

I might need to take this shirt off though, this could get messy!

muah plakpt!

(More Please!)

Momma's boys.

2008-06-29T10:53:00.000-04:00

Of course if one is being held they both have to!

At the Ft. Drum Air Show

2008-06-28T10:51:00.000-04:00

This is the inside of the UH-47 helicopter. This is one of the primary ways I traveled around Afghanistan.	The OH-58 is so small Jamin looks like he could pilot it.
The F-16 brings the pain!	Traveling in style in our Blackhawk

Jamin was instantly
attracted to the
main gun of the A-10 warthog

The boys in front of
a WWII era B-17 Bomber

Again Jamin loves the big guns.

We play till we drop

2008-06-26T10:48:00.000-04:00

After a full day of being nuts Jamin played himself to sleep.

Levi loves to play with his dad!

Chillin' with my buddy Toni

2008-06-23T10:44:00.000-04:00

Our FHE group decided to meet at the park at Ft. Drum. We all had a great time.

Here's a pic of Jamin hanging out with his buddy Toni.

Lunch with Haylee

2008-06-23T10:42:00.000-04:00

Haylee came to spend the day with Jamin, so they decided to make it a date.

Jump! Jump! Jump!

2008-06-17T10:41:00.000-04:00

Playing in the mud.

2008-06-10T10:40:00.000-04:00

Jamin had just taken a bath when it started to rain. He decided he wanted to play in the mud.

Here's the results of his evening excursion.

Playing at Velocity

2008-06-07T10:34:00.000-04:00

Velocity is a big indoor playground where the kids can go crazy! Even Christine got in on the fun.

Jamin had a great time, and was so fast all his pictures were blurry. Here are a few that came out.

Haylee's Birthday Party

2008-05-29T10:32:00.000-04:00

Jamin wearing his all-star glasses

Hey Addie! Check out the end of this hose....here comes Haylee, nice!!!

Memorial Day Picnic

2008-05-26T10:28:00.000-04:00

All my friends call me the low rider. Taking the ladies for a spin in my ride.	Where does all the rainwater go?
I feel like an accessory....	Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!

I like my brother I guess...

2008-05-21T10:26:00.000-04:00

but he keeps slobbering all over my head!

Jamin at the PBS reading fair

2008-05-17T10:25:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics from the PBS reading fair. We got to walk around and see all the cool displays on reading and science. Then we played with Curious George, my FAV!

Levi acting like his big bro.

2008-05-12T10:23:00.000-04:00

Is this Jamin?	Or is this Levi?
Its easier to tell here!	All the Easton boys workin' hard!

Jamin's Adventures in eating!

2008-05-08T10:21:00.000-04:00

Jamin continues to get so big! He is eating with spoons and forks while enjoying the best of the Easton fam cuisine.

As you can see he is the neatest of eaters. Yum!

Trip to the park

2008-04-19T00:18:00.000-04:00

Jamin loves climbing over everything, but sometimes he needs a little help.

Can you tell from the angle who took the picture?

After a long day running at the park how does Jamin relax? Homestarrunner.com of course!

Relaxing, making Dad do all the work.

Me and Levi!

2008-04-10T09:08:00.000-04:00

I love holding my new brother! The only problem is that he is always asleep. He needs to wake up more so we can play!

Here's me and Levi! He woke up long enough to play for a while!

Me, Levi, and Mommy. Three peas in a pod.

He's ready for his close-up!

2008-04-09T11:51:00.000-04:00

Here's a little closer pic of Levi. Right now he is doing his third favorite thing, Sleeping. It it is only proceeded by Eating and well I bet you can guess. Oh and yes we're starting him out in size 1 diapers. We're skipping newborn sizes to opt for, well things that will fit him :)

Levi was born today!!!

2008-04-09T11:50:00.000-04:00

Here is one of the first picture of Levi and Mommy! Levi was born on the 9th (today!) at 10:20 am. He was 9lbs 8oz. and was 22 inches long. I caught myself calling him Jamin a few times because he looks so much like his brother. Stay tuned for more pics of the new guy.

Getting Ready at the hospital

2008-04-09T11:02:00.000-04:00

I'm pretty much the biggest dork ever.

This is how I spent my time while Christine was preparing for Levi's delivery. As you can notice I wore a complete leisure suit made entirely of paper napkins and elastic. The best part..the collar! So even when you are wearing clothes made of tissue you can look cool!

Jamin being awesome

2008-04-08T23:56:00.000-04:00

Note : You might want to turn the volume way down before watching the video.
If I knew a way of editing out my super annoying voice I would have. sorry :(

Jamin clowning around

2008-04-05T23:52:00.000-04:00