I needed a good laugh

Yeah, it's late. I should really be in bed, gathering as much sleep as possible before facing yet another day of parenting my strong-willed toddler. But after three rough days, I really just needed a good laugh. If you need one too, watch this.

80 Years

Last week Brett and mommy had the joy of traveling with Grandma and Papa Brown to visit the whole Johnson family (Grandma's side) in Minnesota, to celebrate Great-Grandma Ethel Johnson's 80th birthday. It was Brett's first much-anticipated visit with the Johnson clan, and we had a blast. Uncle JR (the brother I never had) hosted us at his sweet bachelor pad. Surprise surprise, Brett absolutely fell in love with all the farm animals, as well as the trophy game that JR had mounted on the walls! He was constantly asking to pet and kiss the puppies, kitties, bears, deer, and even the fish! Goofy kid.

We managed to snag a free seat for Brett on half of our flights...not bad! MUCH better than holding the squirmer in my lap for hours on end!

Goofing around at Uncle JR's house

Brett was really proud of himself for finding the only dandylion in JR's yard. He loves trying to blow them.

Papa Jack and lil' JackJack

Oh yeah, Brett got to ride a bull!

It was also super fun to see all the great-grandkids interact and play together. Brett is the fourth of six great-greats, and he's lucky enough to have a cousin, Ethan, who is just six weeks younger. He also really enjoyed playing with Sammy, who is about to turn three. The newest addition, Olivia, made us all drool over her cute, pudgy little face and cupid's-bow lips. Oh, and a big shout-out to Catherine, who bravely hosted all of us, and all our rambunctious kiddos, for a taco feed at her gorgeous farm house! The woman has no fear - she fed both Otter Pops and ice cream cones to each and every one of the kids, hauled out playdoh, bubbles, coloring books...the works! I wonder how long it took to clean up after us all!

Blowing bubbles at JJ and Catherine's - from left to right - Wakely (age 6), Brett (20 months), Ethan (19 months), Sam (almost three)

Indulging in an ice cream cone, while Jennifer (age 3) scarfs an Otter Pop

Brett and Sammy both showed up in matching hats to Grandma's party!

I just can't decide which of these I like best...adorable kid with a gorgeous background (JJ's yard)

The newest little munchkin: Sammy's baby sister, Olivia

Most of all, we had so much fun wishing Great-Grandma a Happy 80th Birthday. It was fun watching her unwrap our gift - an original, framed pencil/charcoal drawing of one of her favorite photos - her beloved late brother, Marvin. Brett's gift to Great-Grandma was singing and dancing to both "Old McDonald Had a Farm" and "If You're Happy and You Know It." He also played the piano (with help) and sang the ABC's. Little performer... ;)

Check out that finger formation! He's a natural!

Grandma and Aunt Betty (Sam and Olivia's grandma) cut cake...and the Birthday Girl shows it off.

Aunt Brenda with the twins, Ben and Tacy (age 7). Until they were born, I was the youngest cousin!


Finally home in PDX...after about 9 hours of traveling with a head cold...and he's still smiling! What a champ.

Gramma and Papa's Visit

Hi friends! We have finally returned to the online world, after having company for two weeks. Gramma and Papa Boehme came to visit from Texas, and stayed at our house for the first time. It was great for them to get to live with little Brett and see him just about 24/7. Here's a snippet of all our fun and adventures with the fam:

A dinner out at the Macaroni Grill - we actually sat at the same table from just over two years ago when we made our big announcement that Brett (then known as Baby B) was on the way!

Berry-picking with Papa and Gramma, yumm!

A little family gathering with Grandma, Papa, Great Aunt Sandy and Uncle Mike, and cousins Kelly and Kasey. Sandy knew how to woo our little man - FOOD.

Another big-boy haircut - thanks Julie!

Trying to fill Papa's big shoes...silly boy...

Devouring not just one, but TWO home-grown, home-made cherry pies...YUM, YUM.

Showing off Brett's culinary skills to Daddy and Papa


Just being silly!

A night with all the grandparents - what could be better?

Swimming in Brett's pool - we actually had to add cold water because the 106-degree heat outside made his pool feel like a hot tub!

Baby & Me Swim lessons - fun! Videos to come...

Showing off some Oregon spirit - Go ducks! We couldn't believe how much Brett looks like his Daddy here...so I added an old baby picture of Brad just to prove it.

Saying bye-bye to Grandma and Papa...see you at Christmas!