Go 'Zers!

We love the TrailBlazers!

Did I mention we are Blazer fans?

Family Pictures

We attempted to get a family picture since we have very few pictures with all of us in them. It turned out okay, at least everyone is looking at the camera and looking somewhat decent. I am in love with this picture of the boys. Rocket is hugging on Ninja and it just melts my heart! On another note, Rocket had his first tooth pop through today :)

6 Months Old

A little late, but that's okay. Rocket is 17lbs 10oz now and such a happy baby! He still loves to interact with people and gets mad if you aren't paying attention to him. He loves to laugh and giggle. No teeth yet, but mommy knows that he can bite hard with those gums. Ouch! He sleeps cuddled up with mom so he can take advantage of some late night visits at the 24 hour buffet.

Don't be a Punk. Face the trunk!

Did you know?

*A child does not need to be turned forward facing in a car seat at one year old, and in fact, is much safer rear facing for as long as the car seat allows?

*The AAP recommends rear facing to the upper limits of the child's car seat (generally 35-40lbs) as long as their head is below the shell of the car seat?

*A rear facing child between the ages of 1-2 is 5 times less likely to be severely injured in a motor vehicle accident?

*A forward facing child between the ages of 1-2 is at serious risk for head and neck injuries, including internal decapitation (yes, it's as horrble as it sounds)?

*Most convertible car seats on the maket can keep children rear facing to at least 2 years old, and some up to 3-4 years of age?

*Leg injuries are far more common in forward facing children and a child's feet or legs touching the backseat in a rear facing car seat is not a safety concern?

*A rear facing car seat absorbs most of the forces of a crash while cradling the child, whereas the body of a child in a forward facing seat would absorb crash forces, placing significant strain on the neck and spinal column?

*A rear facing child is far better protected in the event of a side impact collision, the type that is statistically the most deadly?

We all want our kids to be safe, and as parents it's our job to do our best to make sure that happens. Keeping kids rear facing as long as we can is the best way to keep them safe in the car. Motor vehicle accidents are the number one killer of kids over the age of one. No pediatric organization encourages parents to turn their children at one year /20lbs. That is merely the BARE MINIMUM, and all empasize the importance of rear facing to the maximum limits allowed by the child's car seat. So, don't be a punk. Face the trunk!

Finding Grace

I've been struggling with the content and delivery from Elder Packer's talk in the most recent General Conference since, well, the moment he gave it. I've spent time thinking, pondering, reading, and praying about it to come to a better understanding about what he meant by his remarks, and how to reconcile my questions and concerns with his counsel. As soon as his talk was over, I knew there was going to be some serious (and very harsh) backlash. And I freely admit that I was not at all happy or comforted immediately following his sentiments. But, in my effort to find more peace and understanding on this topic, I've been making a more earnest effort in channeling the spirit for direction and inspiration instead of just "leaning on my own understanding." I stumbled across this blog post and was so grateful for this man's willingness to be so open and candid about his life and the inherent struggles he faces. His thoughts and perspective on Elder Packer's talk has given me a much deeper appreciation for the gospel plan and the things that our Father wants for us. Perhaps some of you would benefit from reading through it as well.

http://gaymormonguy.blogspot.com/2010/10/president-packers-talk-from-gay-mormon.html

Rocket at 3 months

Rocket is 14 lbs 2 oz and 25 inches long. My biggest baby! He LOVES to suck his thumb and I probably have 100 pictures of him doing it. In general, he's a very happy and mellow baby. He loves to be cuddled up in the wrap and for the past 4 nights has been sleeping anywhere from 9-11.5 hours at night. We love this little guy!

Poolside

We spent many hours at the pool to escape the scorching heat of Arizona.