Strain Family

Bennett's Blessing......November 6,2011

2012-01-26T20:30:00.000-08:00

Jared gave Bennett the sweetest blessing, and we had so many wonderful friends and family there to share this day with us. I wish we took more photos and I REALLY wish we got a better family shot. Sadly, Roman is nearly impossible to photograph. Nonetheless, it was a great day!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-09T22:17:00.000-08:00

We kicked off the Halloween celebrations with a fun walk around Gardner Village to see all the witches.

FUN AT CORNBELLIES

WITH ALFALFA AND THE BANANA

NOW THERE IS A CLASSIC PORTRAIT OF THE STRAIN FAMILY......THIS JUST MIGHT BE OUR CHRISTMAS CARD PHOTO:)

.......Roman was in heaven!

PUMPKIN CARVING

TRICK OR TREAT!!!!!

Life With 2 Kids.......

2011-10-30T22:52:00.000-07:00

It's 10:15 PM, usually about the only time to blog.....even though it's my bed time. Yep, that's a typical day with a VERY energetic almost 2 year old and a 2 month old. I first have a story to tell about A BIG SQUEEZE: So, after coming home from the hospital, I was so excited to see Roman. I REALLY missed him in the hospital! But Roman was very distant from me. I tried to read to him, but he wouldn't let me. He would take the book to dad instead. I was sad, because I have been so used to having one on one time with him every day. I think he just saw me bonding with Bennett and that was his way of dealing with it. But finally after a few days, I put him to bed. I rocked him and read him some stories and when it was time to lay him in his bed, I gave him a hug. Roman gave me the biggest squeeze back and we just stood there holding each other as tears were coming down my face. My little Roman is not a hugger or cuddler, so this moment was a long time coming. It's moments like these that make it all worth while. I will NEVER EVER forget this. I love my Roman.

Okay, so now we can move on:)

Wow, I have to say Brother Roman is still not sure what to think of little Benny boy. It took him a few weeks before we could get him to hold Bennett. He often likes to get up in his face and say "Hi-eeeeeeee"! He means well, but tends to smother and when Roman gets near him, Bennett usually knows.....and doesn't like it . Haha! But Roman knows his name and likes to call him "Benny". I can't wait until they start playing together!

Look at his smile!

Bennett had to lay on the Billy light for his Jaundice for 3-4 days.

FAMILY/NEWBORN PICS (BENNETT 2 WEEKS OLD)

PHOTOS BY HEATHER TELFORD

3 weeks old.

Roman 22 months:

loves to jibber jabber (wish I knew what he was saying!), loves cars, trucks, airplanes, skateboards, bikes, books, movies, dancing ("HAPPY DANCE"!), diet coke, putting everything on his head (he thinks everything is a hat!), his cousins, bath time.

Mr. Roman can't put down his new motorcycle.

Watching another movie. Currently his favorite is "Shrek". Also loves Yo Gabba Gabba and Caillou.

This ear thing is hilarious. He covers his ears if he is afraid of something. Loud noises, people, anything!

FARM COUNTRY AT THANKSGIVING POINT

BENNETT - 1 MONTH OLD

BENNETT AT 2 MONTHS:

Bennett loves to be held! He is a very different baby than Roman was. Roman just wanted to be swaddled and layed down with his binky. I love that I can snuggle him so much! Well, as much as Roman will let me:) He LOVES it when you talk to him. He will smile and coo back.

Roman loves his cousin, Hailey. He starts dancing and spinning around with excitement when she comes. So adorable.

NEWPORT BEACH GIRLS TRIP (AND BENNETT TOO)

a much needed and long over due trip to the beach. it was absolute heaven:) love my sisters (and Kaitlynn too!)

THAT'S A BLUE WHALE!

Introducing Bennett Charles Strain......

2011-08-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

AUGUST 22, 2011

Bennett Charles Strain

joined our family.

9 lbs. 21 inches.

We anxiously awaited for the phone call to go to the hospital and I was finally induced at 10:00 am (he broke my water first). I was expecting to have a faster labor than I did with Roman, but this little guy had other plans! There was very little progression (at a 4) by about 3:00 pm, and his heart rate started dipping. Dr. Terry said that the cord was most likely wrapped around his neck or shoulder and he may not be able to come down the birth canal. He mentioned the word C section and of course I had a meltdown. So, they took me off the pitocin to see if his heart rate would go back to normal, and luckily it did, so they put me back on Pitocin and I finally started progressing. He arrived at 7:21 pm, and I could not believe I just gave birth to a 9 pound baby! Wew! He has the cutest chubby cheeks and we are so blessed to have a healthy baby boy.

Big Bro Roman has no idea whats going on.

Love.

Counting down the days.......

2011-08-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

So, it looks like August 22nd is the scheduled day for this baby boy to come! As I have started to prepare, it is really strange how I feel like I need to CRAM some last minute things. Such as shopping. I feel like once I have 2 kids my life will be too restricted for things like this. I also finally did some photos of my little guy before the baby gets here!

19 months.....

Love him!

....and here is the belly at 37 wks/2 days. very anxious to meet this guy.

Quick Update.......

2011-06-30T21:29:00.000-07:00

Oh, I am behind and I may never catch up........so here is a fast version of life:

1) Baby #2 is a BOY!!!! And a VERY VERY active baby too:)
2) Roman is in nursery! Wahoo!
3) Jared now has a skate ramp at his office. One. Happy. Dude.
4) I turned 31. Roman is 18 months.
5) Jared ran the Ragnar.

Train Station in Ogden. Roman liked the rocks. Go figure:)

Happy Easter!

Prego pics are ugly.....here we go. 22 weeks.

Pool time. His favorite part is running around the pool and taking other peoples belongings:)

30 weeks. 10 weeks seems like forever!

Cute smiles!

Roman 16 months

2011-04-26T23:14:00.000-07:00

Our little ball of energy is growing up quickly. We are having so much fun with him (although not so much at church..haha). Some of his favorite things are:

CARS

Brushing his teeth

Trying on dad's hats

Bath time!!!!!

His mini house toy

THE OUTDOORS

........HE SCREAMS EVERY TIME WE TAKE HIM BACK IN THE HOUSE!

READING BOOKS

...I have a feeling he is going to be one smart kid. All day long he hands a book to me and then climbs on my lap. He is getting pretty good at repeating things I point out in the books too.

His favorite show is called "In the Night Garden".

HIS FIRST WORD WAS "BALL". HE ALSO SAYS "DOG". BUT VERY SELDOM WILL HE SAY "MOM" OR "DAD":(

Roman's Rock Star First Birthday

2011-03-19T17:53:00.000-07:00

December 20th 2009 Roman turns ONE!!

Happy one year to my little rockstar :) Wow, he is really a year old. He is such a great addition to our family, and brings energy and laughter to our home. Even though his birthday is so close to Christmas we had a great turnout. Our good friends, The McDonalds, drove from Pocatello, Id. Jared designed the cutest invitations that look like a concert ticket (which I will post soon). Then I made little party favors that had sunglasses, tattoos, candy and glow sticks. Thanks to everyone who came!

Roman also cut 4 molars (2 on top and 2 on bottom), which makes 12 teeth total. It was a rough month especially at night, so we are glad that's over!

Cute little Ellie sporting the sunglasses!

My cute nephew Landon.

His new truck.

In case you were wondering why his cake turned out so ugly, this is what happened to the original big cupcake:( When I went to frost it, it collapsed! So, I just kept the bottom half of the cake. I learned my lesson for next time.........

Holidays 2009-Roman's First Christmas

2011-03-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

It was our first Christmas to stay at home and do Christmas with our own family. Then later we went to The Talbots, and the Christmas breakfast was gone:( \ So I guess next year we have to get there early! My brother, James, was here with his family and Bonnie came from Arizona.

Temple Square

Well, I think Roman was a little too cold and a little too tired that night, so we rushed through. I thought he would be more entertained by the lights, but not so much!

Although he does look happy here.....

Christmas at The Gurr's

To say the least Roman wasn't excited about Santa at all. But everyone got a gift from Santa and we had a lot of fun that night.

Christmas Morning

Since it was our first year at home, we don't have any traditions yet, so we got up and got straight to the gifts. Roman didn't care too much for his presents.

...........later Christmas day

Aunt Steph and Ro

Monica, Bonnie, Me, James

cute nieces and nephews

Hailey, me, Bonnie, Annalee

Thanksgiving

2011-03-19T10:27:00.000-07:00

Turkey day was at The Talbot's this year. We were lucky to have the Helm's join us too:) Afterwards we played our favorite game Amis and Andy. So thankful for the best family in the world and for sweet little Roman. He has changed my life forever.

Roman 11 Months

2011-03-19T10:12:00.000-07:00

I know, I know.......he is 15 months now, but I am a slacker so I am backtracking about 4 months:) But I want to make sure I write everything down. So here we go.............

ROMAN 11 MONTHS

This was a really big month for little Roman, because he learned to walk!!!!

I am in love with his smile, because he has a mouth full of teeth to show off. At 11 months he has 8 teeth.

He is a very independent baby, which I love because he doesn't need to be held.....he actually dislikes it very much:)

He is very energetic, which makes church interesting.

He is into everything.

There couldn't be a more fitting shirt for him.

A Second Miracle-14 weeks and counting!

2011-02-26T23:18:00.000-08:00

The story starts around the middle of December (right before Roman turns one)..........

I wake up with a horrible headache and feel sick. After a while I threw up and that was that. No more sick spells. But I was constantly hungry over the next couple weeks, which added to the weirdness of throwing up out of the blue. I had a feeling it could be true, but when I asked Jared "What if I am pregnant?" he thought the recent hunger was due to a diet I had finished doing.

Because of our history, and doctors giving us such a small chance of conceiving, I tried not to get my hopes up.....but to be honest I had been feeling like it was time to start trying again, even though Roman was only 11 months old. Because what of it took years to get pregnant again?! Well, apparently I wasn't the only one who thought it was "time" for Roman to have a sibling!!!!!!! Heavenly Father knew it was time too:) So, sometime around August 30th our new addition will arrive!

Don't get me wrong, sometimes the mixed emotions come. Wow, two kids? I don't know if I can handle this......I just lost weight and now I get to be fat again.......How will Roman react with a new baby?

But overall, we couldn't be more excited! And I am really trying not to get my hopes up for a girl:)

Everything in the mouth

2011-01-21T22:11:00.000-08:00

I am just wondering if or when the day will come when he will decide that not everything has to go in the mouth? Hilarious, but nasty sometimes too:)

Okay, the binky is acceptable.

11 months and walking

2011-01-21T21:53:00.000-08:00

Ummmmm.....seriously where did time go? I don't really know, but I do know that he gets cuter by the minute. Not only is he walking, he is running and there is no stopping him now!

Halloween 2010

2011-01-21T21:39:00.000-08:00

My little Frog, Roman got his first taste of candy and he was in HEAVEN!!!! We threw a halloween bash at Monica's where we had games for kids and we made party favors for all the kids that looked like broomsticks (sadly I didn't take a picture of that!) The kids played darts where they popped balloons for prizes, and musical chairs which seemed to be the favorite. I kept going in the garage and turning the lights out to give them a little scare:) It was a lot of work, but a lot of fun! Then we went Trunk or Treating in Springville with Kathy, and the Booths. It was too cold and windy so they had to move it indoors.

We were pretty impressed with our cookies.

Grandma Kaitlynn and Dora (Candice)

October in Arizona

2011-01-21T21:17:00.000-08:00

Monica, Hailey, Roman and I drove to Scottsdale to see my sister Bonnie in October. Roman was so great on the drive there.....I feel so lucky! We did plenty of shopping (H&M!!!!), bowling, miniature golfing and more shopping.

Photography

2011-01-01T22:06:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know I have a lot of of new postings to do, but I have been working a lot and someday I will get around to them:) But for now, please check out my photography blog! That's all:)

www.christinamaephotography.blogspot.com

San Diego, Dirty Dash, Skatepark, Makeovers

2010-10-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun in San Diego! We stayed with our good friends, The Gharrings, who made us the best pizza on the grill! Even though it was a quick trip we made it to the San Diego Zoo, the beach AND my favorite store H&M :) We loved the zoo! Roman didn't know what he was looking at half the time, but he was entertained and did really well. You could see hippos under water, koala's (all of them slept at the same time), panda bears, cheetah's.....and more.

The beach wasn't exactly "let's get in our bathing suit" weather, so we decided to do a hike called "Torrey Pines". Despite Jareld asking "Are we done yet?" a few times, we had fun and the best part.....a nice view of the ocean:) I LOVE the ocean so much, and next time I will make sure it is "get in our bathing suit" weather! :)

Other exciting news: Jared ran the "DIRTY DASH"! I was so bummed that I wasn't there until after he crossed the finish line:( So, he had already showered all of the mud off. I really wanted to see him covered in mud. He ran on a team with his dad, stepmom, and 2 others. I looked so fun that I have to do it next year! But I made a shirt for Roman to cheer him on and we went to lunch after.

Jared is starting Roman early in hopes of a future skater, so we took a little trip to the skatepark when they were having an event for younger kids. He loved watching them out there. And he even got some free gear courtesy of SIEGE AUDIO, who is a client/friend of Jared's.

Lastly, just a few pics of my recent home makeover. I wanted it to look lighter and fresh in the living/dining/kitchen area. It feels so much brighter and I am so happy with the results!

Trip to Poky, Summer Hiking and Other News

2010-08-29T20:25:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a huge post. I have a lot of updating to do and want to make sure I document all of it.

FIRST OF ALL: ROMAN IS 8 MONTHS......and gets cuter every day.

He is getting chubby (weighing in at 20 pounds) and is moving EVERYWHERE!!!! He started crawling at 7 months, and there is no stopping him now!
Here are some of his favorite things:

1) CRAWLING UP STAIRS!!!!!!! He gets so giddy.

2) BATHTIME.....It's amazing how long he can chew on a toy.

3) THE SHOE CLOSET. Especially chewing on them. Nasty!

4) Going on walks or hikes.

5) He loves chewing on licorice.

6) He giggles when he sees Birdie and Mulligan.

7) Sleeping. He still likes his 3 naps a day.

8) Seeing dad come home from work. His expression is priceless.

9) Patty cake, patty cake. Especially when you roll it and toss it:)

10) Chewing on anything! Mostly because he is getting 3 teeth on top! Making that 6 teeth total.

And here are some of his LEAST FAVORITE things:

1) Shopping with mom......grrrrrrr! I keep thinking that I am going to train him not to be like his dad in this way. LOL. So far it's NOT working:)

2) Getting in his high chair.

3) Changing his clothes(very challenging).

4) Walking him up the stairs, because he's smart enough to know he is probably going to sleep.

5) Being held by anyone at any time. NO CUDDLING ALLOWED! Or kissing:)

6) Getting teeth.

Other funny things he does:

When his binky is in his mouth, he must be holding it at all times. He loves to pull it out and put it back in.......and repeat. Notice he is "smizing" (a term I learned from Tyra Banks) meaning smiling with your eyes. Oh, I adore little Roman.

Other adventures lately involve visiting The McDonalds in Pocatello, Idaho. We went to Bear World one day and hiking another day. We are so happy they live closer (compared to New Orleans).

Jared was feeding the bear gummy bears to get it right next to our car.

Driving through Bear World.

This is a cool bench made out of skateboards at a pizza place. Maybe we should make one with Jared's skateboards?

We also went on a hike with The Bogars in Pleasant Grove. Baby Sienna (Note: in the baby sling)was an angel the whole time.

LASTLY: THE NURSERY IS FINISHED. WAHOO! However, I must say that I dislike the paint color and I am going to repaint. But I am so proud of Jared for designing the posters in his nursery! He did a wonderful job.

Family Photos

2010-08-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

We had these done by Heather Telford Photography back in June, when Roman was 6 months old. I am so glad we did them! I think she did a great job, and Roman was happy the whole time! Here are just a few of my favorites:

This is my favorite. I love watching these two together! Roman just lights up and giggles when dad comes home every day.

The Living Planet Aquarium

2010-08-18T20:42:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at the aquarium. Even though Roman is only 8 months old, it was fun to see his reaction to all the fish. We got to see Octopus, Jellyfish, Catfish, Sharks(small), Penguins, Sea Turtles, Sea Horses, Stingrays, and many more. We had a great time!

I know it's hard to see, but these are the penguins.

Oh hello Alligator to the right:)

Bear Lake

2010-07-24T20:08:00.000-07:00

This year we went to Bear Lake with my family. It was a little cold, but luckily the last day there was beautiful! Roman didn't love camping, but all in all it was a lot of fun.

Roman's cousin Kaitlynn.

Landon loves his "Romey"

More of my favorite smiles:)

2010-07-18T14:32:00.000-07:00

I have this application on my IPhone called a Hipstomatic camera. I have had fun using it, even though they aren't the best quality. Here are a few of my favorites.

30th Birthday Celebration

2010-07-16T21:09:00.000-07:00

Seriously, the best birthday ever! Thanks to the best family and friends for making it so fun!

The day of my birthday we went to a park and had a picnic and played games with the family. Then Friday, I wanted to go to Settebello (one of my favorite restaurants) with friends. After dinner I kept asking everyone if they wanted to go next door to get gelato....and surprisingly nobody else wanted it. Jared even told me I couldn't have it, and I didn't even question why? So, we come home and SURPRISE!!!! Are you kidding me? I had absolutely NO IDEA. My friend Lora drove from Pocatello Idaho with her fam and decorated my house so cute. Thanks again to everyone! And especially a shout out to you Lora! You rock!

BALLOONS AND MORE BALLOONS!

I feel young compared to these two old ladies! Haha! Love you both:)

Catching Up.

2010-06-06T18:57:00.000-07:00

My excuse for not updating-3 words, HOME SWEET HOME!!!! We are finally back at our house in Lehi after the craziest year of moving! We finally have some room to spread and relax! Not too much else has been happening, other than my little man cut 3 teeth! The first one cut through about a month and a half ago (a moler), and now his bottom front cut through about a week and a half ago. We painted his room and finally got a crib, which Roman LOVES! He will just lay in there and giggle and play, which he never did in his cradle. Can't wait until his nursery is decorated. When it's finished I will post a few pics.

Roman's Four Month Photoshoot

Typical Roman with the two fingers in his mouth.

Hangin in the baby bumbo.

Hogle Zoo with his cousin Edynn ( only 2 weeks apart).

I just love this shirt with the skull and crossbones :)

Saying Goodbye.

2010-05-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

So, it's only been 2 days since they moved and I already miss The Taylors! But I am so excited for them and there new adventures in New Mexico! Jamie, I decided to do this post so you could see some pics that you have probably never seen and so I could refresh your memory with some good times we have had! Lets start with the time we went to Harts and I drove off with the gas pump still in my car!!! LOL! Good one. Everytime I pass Harts I promise I will remember that!

Other fav memories:

Amis and Andy (or as Mike says "Jamis and Mandy")

Maternity Photoshoot

Maddix Newborn Photoshoot, especially when you both got squirted on! LOL

Ticket to Ride

The many times you made dinner for us after getting out of the hospital with Roman! You saved my life!

Fourth of July. Spending an hour in the grocery store picking out CANDY!!!

And getting hit by the sprinklers while trying to watch fireworks:-)

Your baby shower.

My baby shower.

When you first told me you were preggers! Happy happy day:-)

Birthday dinner at Cheesecake Factory.

And many memories to come, when we come and visit you guys!

The good bye party :-(

The little buddies saying good bye :-(

Roman looks so angry! HAHA!

Jamie's baby shower

Jamie and her cute baby bump:-)

Jamie's Birthday Dinner

Little Maddix!!!!!

Beautiful Family!!!

Good luck in your new adventures and try to remember The Strains every once in a while :-)

Rolling Over, and Giggling

2010-04-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

When Roman was about 13 weeks, I heard his first giggle! I was using a wipe to clean underneath his chin and it must have tickled. He just giggled, so I kept doing it. Oh, it was so adorable! So, over the last few weeks he has only done it 3 other times. Once for Grandma Stone, once for Jared and once for my friend Jamie!!!! I can't wait until he starts doing this more often!

Last week (when he was about 15 weeks old) he started rolling from back to front! I left the room for a minute and when I came back he was on his stomach. After that he just kept doing it over and over! I wasn't expecting this to happen so soon! So, he doesn't do very well with his little gym toy now, because he gets mad when he gets stuck!

Starting 2 days ago, I decided it was time to let Rome sleep in his own room. He doesn't sleep well at night so I was hoping this would help. I have been trying to get him on a schedule and am not sure yet if it will help both of us or not. Please give me your input! These last 2 days have been the hardest so far. Very stressful and frustrating. Still dealing with gas issues too, so throwing this in the mix is making it even worse!

Here's a few recent pics:

We spent Easter Sunday at The Nielsen's. We had dinner and played Ticket to Ride.

His first Easter bunny from Grandma Teri.

Missing Dad

2010-03-30T22:30:00.000-07:00

Forgive me if I can't make it through this post without tears. My dad is someone that has been on my mind especially lately. Since having little Roman, I often think how much fun he would be as a grandpa! I know they must have met up there before Roman's birth! I miss him every day and wish he could be here to see his little grandson grow and to have his example in his life. I hope that he can feel his spirit and who knows maybe he can even see him. I know he is here constantly, and is looking down on this special little guy. Although my time was short with him, he was such a wonderful man! He had so much passion for life and he was so fun to be with! I can't wait to see him on the other side and see Roman meet his Grandpa Anderson!!! Love you and Miss you everyday Dad!!!

3 Month Photoshoot

2010-03-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

Finally it was nice enough to take a few photos outside! He is starting to sit in his little bumbo chair too.

We are just a block away from Liberty Park, so we love going on walks.

The Latest-Teething, Rolling over!

2010-03-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

I haven't had the chance yet to give updates on little Roman! So, let me back track about a month ago.....he was about 10 weeks and started teething! Around 9 weeks I noticed he was acting really fussy. He was drooling a lot and trying to put his hands in his mouth. Gas drops weren't working as they had before. So, one night we were at a friends house playing games. They knew how fussy Roman had been and brought it to my attention that he was teething! I didn't believe it at first because I had no idea they could get teeth this early! So, I did a little researching and found that the average time to start teething is about 6-7 months. One side has started to come through just barely, but the other side hasn't yet. Crazy!!!!

At about 3 months old he rolled over for the first time!!! I wish I got it on video because I can't get him to do it again.

HE LOVES BATH TIME!!! AND HE DOESN'T LIKE GETTING OUT BECAUSE HE IS FREEZING!!!!!!!

HE IS SUCH A SWADDLE AND BINKY BABY! UNLIKE MOST BABIES, HE DOES NOT LIKE TO BE HELD AND BOUNCED WHEN HE IS TIRED/FUSSY. JUST GIVE HIM HIS BINKY, SWADDLE HIM REALLY TIGHT, AND LAY HIM DOWN.

Romans Blessing-March 14th, 2010

2010-03-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

Romans blessing was such a perfect day! Jared gave such an amazing blessing. I feel so blessed to have such wonderful family and friends! What a great day:-)

5 Year Anniversary!!!!

2010-03-08T15:30:00.000-08:00

5 Years of marital bliss. I am so in love with this man. Can't believe it has been 5 years already! We have had so many unexpected turns and we have grown closer because of them. After having Roman, I have seen a whole new side of Jared. He is such a great dad! I am so lucky to have a wonderful man and I am so proud of everything he has accomplished. Not only is he handsome, but he is extremely talented. If you know Jared, he is the kind of person who has the ability to make and keep friends for a long time. He can relate to anyone and everyone. He really can make me laugh too!!!! I love you babe! Happy Anniversary! Here is a collection of some of my favorite photos and memories:

Seattle days.

We are engaged!!!!

Last 2 weeks

2010-02-28T19:49:00.000-08:00

I have been slacking on taking pictures lately. As I said he hates photoshoots, so I just snap a few random ones. ALL of these photos were taken with my iphone, so the quality is not the best. He had his 2 month check up and he is doing great! 90 percentile for his height and 50 percentile for his weight! I hope he grows out of this gassy stage soon. The poor guy is just miserable.

Just a random one. He is 6 weeks old here, but it is one of my favs of these two.

He is 9 weeks here.

These 3 pics, he is 9 1/2 weeks.

Me and the babe. He's 10 weeks!

Weekly Update

2010-02-19T19:57:00.000-08:00

Baby Roman - 8 Weeks!!!!!

Roman is starting to get such a cute personality. When you talk to him he laughs and smiles and makes the little "goo" noises. He also has the worst gas ever! I guess he takes after his dad:-)

Roman 7 Weeks!!!

2010-02-14T14:16:00.000-08:00

I think he looks more and more like Jared everyday!!!! Especially his mouth and lips.

Grandmas Strain with Roman

Roman 6 Weeks

2010-02-01T19:43:00.000-08:00

So I have decided to try and update photos of little Roman once a week. Mostly because they change so quickly and I want to capture all the stages. Sorry if any of you get sick of seeing so much of him, but I am mostly doing this as an online journal. Everyone says he looks like a little man already and I definately see a lot of Jared in him.

Look at those long fingers!

Roman 5 weeks old

2010-01-27T16:52:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how much he is growing and changing every day! He really doesn't like getting his picture taken, so instead of setting up for photoshoots, I just try to capture a few candid photos of him. I love his expressions, so I wanted to show some of the many expressions.....not to mention the hand gestures. Lol!

The half smile :-)

HAPPPPPPPPYYYYYYYY!!!!

Good Posture Roman!!!!

Hey mom, look how cute I am!!!

Are we almost done with pictures?????

Lol. Crossed eyed!!!

Throwing peace signs!!!

Wow, nice hand gesture there Ro. He does looooovvvve snuggling in his dads "nook".

I love how he's looking right up at dad.

Me and my baby!!!

We love to snuggle. I just can't get enough of him.

Roman Judd Strain

2010-01-16T14:36:00.000-08:00

Roman was born December 20th at 11:59 am. He weighed 6 lbs. 13 ounces. My water broke at 4:00 am and on the way to the hospital Jared stopped to get a Redbull since everyone warned Jared how exhausting babies can be. Once we got to the hospital they started me on Pittosin (not sure how you spell that?), but his heart rate was dipping, so they would take me off it. So, we thought it would take a while, but in less than an hour I went from a 3 to a 9 (dialating). So, after that everything happen pretty quickly. I was lucky not to feel much pain, except the very beginning of contractions. Man, that epidural is truly amazing! We are so blessed to have a healthy baby and were so happy he came just in time for Christmas! Our lives have changed so much already. I still can't believe I am a mommy! Jared is so in love with him, and it has been so fun to watch him with Roman. We hope you all had a great holiday!

Pregger Pics

2009-09-29T16:54:00.000-07:00

Okay friends, at your request....here are a few pregger pics.

Christmas Day Baby????

2009-06-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, we were told we would have to do invitro, so we moved in with my mom to start saving. However, a few weeks after moving in with my mom, we found out we were pregnant! When the test confirmed positive, we were both in denial. We couldn't believe it! But after a blood test and an early ultrasound, we could hear a heart beat and knew it wasn't a mistake! I am 12 weeks. There were a lot of prayers and this is truly a miracle.......a christmas miracle!

The McDonalds Visit Utah!!!!!!

2009-04-08T16:47:00.000-07:00

We finally got to meet little Parker who is already getting so big!!!!! I loved seeing Ellie's little personality......she loves to twist her hair!!!! It was so fun to finally see them again! Hopefully, (if my prayers are answered) they will be much closer next year:-) Love you guys!

Random Pic

2009-04-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

Jareld hates this pic, but I think it's funny!

DIETING AND WORKING OUT=NOT FUN

2009-01-12T22:17:00.000-08:00

SO, JARED IS DOING THIS CONTEST AT WORK.....ONE OF THOSE WEIGHTLOSS THINGS. AND I HAVE DECIDED TO JOIN IN! SO, IF ANYONE HAS ANY GREAT RECIPES TO SHARE (HEALTHY ONES OBVIOUSLY!), PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE! LOOKS LIKE I HAVE TO START WORKING OUT, AND I AM NOT SURE THERE IS ANYTHING I DISLIKE MORE! WISH US LUCK!

NEW YEARS EVE DANCE PARTY

2009-01-07T19:41:00.001-08:00

WELL, ALL THE HARD WORK PAYED OFF. OUR NEW YEARS EVE PARTY WAS A SUCCESS AND HOPEFULLY IT CAN BECOME A TRADITION. THANK YOU TO MIKE FOR GETTING THIS AWESOME PLACE FOR US! AND THANK YOU FOR EVERYONE ELSE WHO CAME! HOPEFULLY IT WILL BE BIGGER AND BETTER EVERY YEAR! I HOPE YOU ALL HAD A GREAT NEW YEARS!!!!

THE BEST GIRLS I KNOW!!!

2008-12-18T16:12:00.001-08:00

I HAVE TO TELL THESE GIRLS HOW AMAZING THEY ARE! WE HAD SOOOOO MUCH FUN AND PEOPLE EVEN LAUGHED A LITTLE AT THE STUPID STORY I TOLD. IN ALL SERIOUSNESS (I KNOW I AM NOT SERIOUS VERY OFTEN).....I LOVE EACH ONE OF YOU! YOU HAVE MADE A HUGE IMPACT IN MY LIFE AND THE FRIENDSHIPS I HAVE MADE WILL REMAIN FOREVER, WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT! THANKS FOR A GREAT YEAR AND ANOTHER GREAT ONE TO COME! LOVE YOU ALL!

STRUCK PARTY!!!!!!

2008-12-08T23:15:00.000-08:00

I wish that I was lucky enough to work with this group of people! I asked Jerald if I could come and work with him. He just laughed. Anyway, we had a really fun time and Jerald looked so cute in his suit:-) They had a really nice dinner and awesome gifts. Jerald won a navigation system.

TURKEY DAY!!!!!

2008-12-03T22:13:00.000-08:00

Well, it was another successful turkey day at meine muters haus. For all of you who don't speak German that means "my mothers house". Jerald slept through most of it due to illness, but luckily he was still able to get some turkey!!!!! Later that night we went and saw "Four Christmas's"......pretty funny. Hope you all had a great thanksgiving! I am so excited for Christmas! I love the holiday season and all the festivities. Jerald even got tickets to The Nutcracker!!!!!!!

PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

2008-10-26T20:44:00.000-07:00

I AM DOING A FAMILY/INDIVIDUAL PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL! ALL SESSIONS BOOKED BEFORE DECEMBER 7th WILL BE 30% OFF REGULAR SESSION PRICE.

*****PLEASE TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW!!!*****

NEW YORK CITY-EVERYTHING I DREAMED AND MORE!!!

2008-10-26T19:32:00.000-07:00

This is the most amazing place I have ever experienced in my life. Jared has always made comments about wanting to move there and I have always said that I don't think I could live there, but after this trip I am pretty tempted! There was so much to do and not enough time to experience it all. I felt like the city was never ending! We also went to "Wicked" which was so much fun! I was so lucky to win this trip to NY and go to awesome haircutting classes. I really can't wait to go back with Gerald!

Manti Temple

2008-09-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

Just a few new photos. Does Jared look like David Cook? haha!

Happy Birthday Jared!!!!

2008-09-07T20:49:00.000-07:00

Holy Cow!!!!!! I can't believe Jared is 25!!! haha....he wishes. But seriously, I am pretty sure that I am the luckiest woman alive to have this man in my life. He has been the greatest friend and support to me so thank you and

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Two Photoshoots All In ONE Day!!!!

2008-09-03T21:56:00.001-07:00

It was such a great day!!!!!! I got to shoot my two GREAT nephews and adorable Addie!!!!! For more you can go to my photography blog page: www.christinamaephotography.blogspot.com

Jared is Out of Order

2008-08-10T18:38:00.000-07:00

So, someone got a little carried away on the skateboard! Luckily he was with his good friend Brandon-who took him to the E.R. Brandon almost fainted when he decided to watch the doctors reset his wrist! But luckily they put Jared out. I am glad I didn't see how jacked up it was, because I probably would have freaked out! I did see the pics Brandon took and they are NASTY!!!!!!!! Good thing he can still move his fingers so he can click a mouse!!!!!! He was back to work in no time!

We Are Going To Wilco!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-08-03T12:13:00.000-07:00

So, I was so excited that we were able to find wilco tickets that I decided to blog!!!!! The show was sold out after 2 days, and we waited too long to get tickets, but looking on Craigslist.org every day we finally found some!!!! This is one of Jared and I's favorite bands EVER!!!!! YAY!!!!!! Can't wait for August 18th to come!

I LOVE MY FAMILY!!!!!!!

2008-07-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

Here she is! My brave neice Olivia! Healthy and happy!

My brother James with his sad little wrapped up wrist! We are so glad you are alive!!!!!!!

So, some of you may have already heard that my brother James and my neice Olivia were in a four wheeling accident about a week ago. My neice, Olivia is only three years old and part of the four wheeler fell on her. They rushed them to the hospital because she was urinating blood and they saw some swelling in her stomach. All we knew was that she was life flighted to another hospital and at that point we were really scared. We also knew that my brothers wrist was broken and possibly some broken ribs. So, we decided to get on our knees as a family and pray. It was a very powerful moment for our family. Most of us were in tears just waiting to hear what was going on. We finally got word that Olivia was okay and James's wrist was broken, but we all felt so blessed that it wasn't worse.

I guess the point of this story is that I am so grateful for my family and there example to me! Prayer has kept our family together through hard times and I am thankful for that!

Welcome Baby Zyanne!

2008-07-23T09:12:00.001-07:00

Here is our new niece, Zyanne! She is sooo adorable! And just so everyone knows-this is HUGE that you see Jared holding his niece! I have only seen this happen 2 or 3 times before! He is terrified of babies.....but hopefully he can get lots of practice!

2008-07-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

OUR FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION!

So, that morning we went to the parade with Brandon, Laurel and Addie. Then that night we had a BBQ with Nicole and Reed and went to the Thanksgiving Point Fireworks. It was a great day!

I LOVE MY SISTERS!

For our girls trip this year, my sisters and I decided to go to Las Vegas. Nothing is more fun than shopping and laying by a pool! Although a beach would have been ideal, this was the perfect spot to meet my sister Bonnie, who lives in AZ. We went to Beatles Love Circus De Soleil, which was soooo amazing!

Greetings..

2008-06-15T01:48:00.001-07:00

Alright, for starters...HELLO.

Yeah, you read right, its 1:30am on a Saturday night and I Jared Strain am writing. (Might be the only time) Some of you might know that I am a night Owl. I get most of my real work done at this time, but tonight I got caught up looking at long lost friends' blogs and started to ask myself "where have I been?" After which I started to make a self inventory and realized I have been seriously out of the loop for very long time. So as I sit here in beautiful downtown Zion, I mean Lehi, UT I just wanted to surprise Christina by posting some of my favorite old pics and show her that I am excited to be a part of this.

Starters...brief timeline.....

Provo, this is where I lost most of you. Finished up at BYU and started to figure out what to do next. This is where I met Christina. On my 30th bday at the Olive Garden after flying in from NYC watching my then favorite Bosox beat up on the Yanks. (For what its worth, Roger Clemens was pitching) anyhow, any woman that brings me food and looks THAT good doing so, deserves to be picked up and kept for all eternity. Almost, we broke up, I moved to Seattle. Realized I had made a mistake and begged her to take me back. Lucky for me she did. We had alot of fun in Seattle for over three years. I became a baseball fanatic, through my most recent addiction of fantasy baseball, and loved what I did there. Work and new challenges brought us back to the sunshine where we plumped down in Lehi. Growing out dear little family with two additions of Mulligan and Birdie. Who you will also learn to love and adore as we do. Currently we are still here. I took a chance left the firms from Seattle that brought me up (General Public and The Wexley School for Girls) and am now servicing alot of those clients from those days under the alias Death & Taxes. I keep way too busy, but not enough to feel content. Its been a fun ride creating the high level of work and having clients with that kind of reputation returning for more, but all in all, I'd just like a big break on a beach with the little lady.

What you see here will more or less be a collection of my fav. pics from the past couple of years. Feel free to drop us a line, comment or call. We would love to get back in touch with you people!

OH, and this just in.....Tina is now a blonde bombshell! Dang, she fine.

Leftovers

2008-06-15T01:23:00.001-07:00

I'm finally getting tired. So seriously if you wanna see more, like you just cannot get enough, go to our old blog. There you will find all the pieces to fill in the gaps, but for now just enjoy these, snowboarding trips to Whistler BC, more of Ryan and Lora visting Utah, Rock Band on New Years eve with Brandon and Laurel, Tina and the girls, Tina and her most favorite camera ever, and who wouldn't want to miss out on me hard at work?

2008-06-15T01:20:00.000-07:00

Now comes a bit of the best part, Tina and I. Don't call her Tina though. That is strictly forbidden and only I am barely allowed to use it.

Speaking of friends and cool places....

2008-06-15T01:08:00.000-07:00

Visting Ryan and Lora in the Big Easy for Halloween. Airboat ride, Saints game and lots of food!

Camping with Cody & Whitney, Todd & Brittney, Tyler and Tanner in Oregon.

2008-06-15T00:56:00.000-07:00

AH, yeah. Did I mention we went to alot of baseball games? And yes, that IS Ry-dog and Lora. Love you two, hurry back to the West Coast.

2008-06-15T00:51:00.000-07:00

It started with a kiss

California

2008-06-06T17:09:00.000-07:00

   Six Flags

   Landon and Annalee
   Me, my neice Hailey, and my sister Steph

2008-06-06T17:02:00.000-07:00

This is my first official photo shoot with my new christmas present....my digital camera! I had the pleasure of shooting my nephew Alex's wedding, so here are a few of the photos.

10 months later......

2008-06-06T16:25:00.000-07:00

For halloween we dressed up Mulligan as a skeleton and Birdie as a cowgirl! As you can tell, we love them very much!
This is a classic Jared face.
Our first Salt Lake Bee's baseball game this season!
Haha! The latest on Christina's new do......
Our friends Brannon and Shauna were visiting from Seattle. Of course we had an awesome time.....especially taking Shauna's hair platinum!
My sister was here from Arizona for my Uncle Paul's funeral, so we had a fun night out with my sister's and my neices!

Testing......

2007-12-15T17:20:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! This is my first entry so I am testing to see if it will work!