Hola CANCUN!

Last night Brett and I officially booked our vacation to Cancun!!!!! We haven't been on a big vacation (just the two of us) since we honeymooned in Jamaica so we're going all out! We choose Cancun because I desperately need to feel the white sand between my toes and the cool ocean breeze in my hair- a "real" vacation in my opinion. We're staying at the Sun Palace, an adult-only all inclusive resort right in the heart of Cancun's hotel strip. Everything is included, food, drinks, excursions, and even a $300 golf and spa credit! So, if anyone is free in November and wants to join us...well, you're just going to have to get your own room!

Oh, and Grandma Nagel gets to love up on Austin for an entire week. I don't think that breaks her heart too much.

Sun Palace, Cancun, Mexico

David Cook Live!

David Cook - Sept 2, 2009 - Idaho Falls, ID

It's no secret that Brett and I are American Idol junkies. So, when I heard David Cook was coming to Idaho Falls of all places, I was in line for tickets the day and minute they were released! The concert was at the Civic Auditorium, a smaller venue that allows for a more intimate concert experience. Tickets were general admission so we arrived 1 1/2 hours before the doors opened and waited in line with the weirdest mix of people- teeny boppers, young parents, and even some old geezers. It paid off cause we scored aisle seats eleven rows from the front! I had a perfect view the entire night.

It was an rockin' concert and David Cook was a pretty personal entertainer, talking to the audience between almost every song and even left the stage and walked around the entire seating area at one point. He definitely made his Idol fans proud! The Crash Kings opened for him and they weren't too shabby either. So, if you're in the mood to jam out, look up David Cook!

Here's some pics...camera didn't do so well in the dark but you get the gist.

Yeah, a date night with my honey!

My TWILIGHT Absence

I’ve neglected my blog, my house cleaning, my paint-chipped toenails. I think my husband may even throw his hat in the ring. But it’s his fault. He made me rent the movie and now I’m hooked. Hi, I’m Jen and I’m a TWILIGHT junkie.

My assistant at work, Joelle, tried to get me to read the series long ago. I brushed her off at the thought of wasting my time reading a “teenybopper” book series about vampires of all things. What a fool I was then.

I’ve been absorbed in the love affair between Edward and Bella, my nose deep in the TWILIGHT series for three weeks now. My hairdresser says it’s a modern day version of Romeo & Juliet, two people longing to be together against impossible odds- perhaps. All I know is that I can’t put the books down. I’m drawn to the passionate love story, the action and adventure, the sweet nothings that Edward constantly whispers to Bella. My heart melts at Edward’s selflessness and Jacob’s quirky, fun-loving persona. The loyalty of the characters is refreshing.

I guess it’s my time to de-stress from the activities of the day and let my mind wander in a land of fantasy. I’ve missed reading books that don’t necessarily teach me something, but rather let my mind be free to just enjoy the story. You can only read so many parenting and self-help books before you overanalyze yourself and your actions to death. TWILIGHT doesn’t judge, it just entertains.

So I’m finishing up Eclipse today and I’m going to try to wait a week or two before reading the final installment, Breaking Dawn. Maybe then I can get my blog up to date and my house in order. But really, who am I kidding. I could barely wait 24 hours to start the last two books. I’m doomed.

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!