Some Austin Firsts

One of the first times Austin pulled himself up to his feet unassisted. It didn't last long that time, but now he's a monkey.

First ice pop, otter pop, whatever you call it...with dad. It was so cold that he kept handing it from one hand to the other, then his eyes got all red and he started shivering.

First ride in a police car (I'm glad he was the driver!).

First big red ball. Bigger than him I think.

First time raiding the refridgerator...and definitely not the last!

First time in a window sill. I couldn't keep this kid out of it! He had a blast with the rocks.

First time I found Austin standing in his crib. It's now become the norm. He's all smiles after a nap (as usual).

July 4th Celebrations

We had a great July 4th with family and friends. We started the day with a parade, then had fried chicken at our good friend's parent's house, and then ended the day with another BBQ at another friend's house. It was a full day and Austin loved every minute of it...except for maybe when I finally made him take a nap....way too late!

Austin with his flag, red/white/blue necklace, and balloon tied to his belt loop! He didn't give up that necklace until I forced it from his hands before bedtime.

Austin and I at the parade. Brett showed up later after his 5am to 10am shift at the golf course. Really, who golfs at 5am!?

A glimpse of our Idaho Falls parade...oh yeah, that's a wagon train all right!

Austin just chillaxin in a camping chair with his friend Ryker at the BBQ, probably after a few too many hot dogs and sippy cups of milk!

Austin with Daddy on a trampoline for the first time! He loved, LOVED it! And I love seeing my boys smile and laugh together.

And, below is not a picture of fireworks. Nope, no fireworks for the Nagel crew. Bailey and I have never really been fans of fireworks, plus 10pm is just too late for a 14 month old who's been partying all day long! Maybe next year.

**While we celebrated, my thoughts drifted to the men and women who defend and fight for our freedom and independence each and every day. My thanks and prayers go out to our courageous troops.**

Father's Day

Brett's one wish on Father's Day was to relax in the basement (his man cave) and watch the U.S. Open. Well, Austin had other plans. He wanted to climb all over daddy, blocking his view of the TV. Welcome to parenthood honey!

I made him a big breakfast and topped it off with a hearty chicken and broccoli casserole for dinner, which was a special gift for him since I don't have much time to cook these days! I also found the perfect Father's Day card for him, and wanted to share it with all the other fathers out there.

A Father's Day Prayer for My Husband

Lord, please bless my husband with a beautiful day and a happy heart...
...with a sense of satisfaction and an understanding that being a father is the most important thing he could have been. Most of all, Lord, please bless him with the knowledge of how deeply he is loved and cared about- on Father's Day and always.

I love you Brett. Happy Father's Day!

Scenic River Classic

On the 20th, Austin and I participated in the Scenic River Classic 5K walk- well, power walk for us! It was pretty cold in the morning, but Austin was a trooper, snacking on french toast and milk as we cruised along. The credit union I work for is an annual sponsor of the event and each year a bunch of employees race together (10k run, 5k run, 5k walk). The event raises money for the Development Workshop which provides jobs and services for people with disabilities in eastern Idaho- so a great cause and reason to walk/run. I have a great time participating each year, but this year was extra special since my little man got to join me! We finished 28th out of about 150 walkers. Not too shabby!

My Itty Bitty Garden

So, I took the advice of my good cousin Sarah and built my own Square Foot Garden. I've always wanted a garden (to compliment my raspberry bushes that I'm obsessed with in the summer) but never thought I had the space or expertise. Enter, square foot gardening. A little space, a little dirt, a few little seeds, and you have it - a fabulous garden right outside your kitchen window! And Brett was so happy we didn't have to kill his well manicured lawn to do it.

Corn, carrots, beans...here you come...I hope. We've had a few things sprout in some squares, but I'm a bit worried about all the rain and overcast days we've had over the last few weeks. Seems like there should be more action going on by now. I guess we'll just wait and see!

Now, if you call and I don't answer my phone I'm probably out admiring my garden- or changing a dirty diaper, or doing laundry, or walking the dog, or....

Here's a glimpse at my strawberries. I bought them as plants so they don't count.

Alas, my garden!

Oh, and a special thanks to my wonderful husband for all this construction work. I couldn't have pull it off myself. Smooch, smooch honey.

Aaron Stephen

Last weekend we went to Boise and visited my newest nephew, Aaron Stephen. He was born a few weeks early on May 27th but perfect nonetheless. Elisha had another speedy labor and delivery, which seems to be her norm. The family is doing well, especially Jakob who is in absolute love with his new brother! Here are some pictures. Congrats! We love you guys!

Aaron Stephen Knudsen
Me and Aaron
The Knudsen Crew - happy as can be!

Austin's 1st Birthday Party!

Here are pictures of Austin's 1st birthday party! We had a great time celebrating his big day with family and friends. Our backyard BBQ got rained out but we made the most of it and had fun regardless. Brett did a great job of converting the garage into a BBQ palace. Austin was in good spirits the entire afternoon and loved his hot dog, potato salad, cake and gifts! Thanks to all our guests for your support and generosity. We love ya!

A picture of the fam at the beginning of the party

What's a party without a party hat?
Austin with Grandpa Bulson

Cake pre-Austin.

Austin's first b-day candle

Sugar...yum!

He was so happy until the party hat went on. It was quickly removed.

Cousins Jakob and Ava with the Birthday Boy

Austin with Grandma Nagel

Ryker, one of Austin's birthday buddies

All smiles on his birthday!