Todd & Jenny Allen

Pumpkin Patch 2nd B-day!

2010-10-15T14:18:00.001-06:00

Elizabeth had a blast at the Pumpkin Patch this year for her birthday. Her cousins as well as some friends came along as well and she fit right in with the big girls as usual. Unfortunately, her spacey mother forgot the camera so what few pics I have were taken from my phone and are somewhat lacking to say the least. The best one I did manage turned out fuzzy because like her parents, E doesn't like to have her photo taken so needless to say she wouldn't hold still long enough. She picked out a pumpkin just her size and was so excited she just kept running up and down the dirt path.

The poor kid probably got confused after being sung happy birthday to on 3 different days that weekend. Yes, I know she's only 2 but they celebrate birthdays a little differently in my Husbands family...IT"S YOUR BIRTHDAY WEEKEND EXTRAVAGANZA!

Sunday Dinner

2010-09-25T13:37:00.002-06:00

Last Sunday we were at my sister's house enjoying a "quite tasty" meal. We had all gathered around the table and had begun consumption. E. was sitting next to Jenny. She too was enjoying her dinner when as a two year old is prone to do she knocked over her cup-o-punch! With a gasp she looked to her now soaked shorts then to me, then to Jenny and exclaimed, " shoop it a mess!" That broke the tension quickly and clean up ensued.

A Couple Of Things

2010-08-24T09:45:00.005-06:00

We're back to school I am excited to knock this one out of the park! Only Two semesters to go and I will be done. I could not have gotten this far with out the help of our families and friends. Especially our parents, they have been a great support to us.

On a different note, we have been having family home evening. Last night was a bust! After we sang a song and had opening prayer, it was all down hill from there. E just lost it, she started to freak out! Screaming and crying for no reason. She has been doing that a lot lately. Spanking doesn't work on her, so she ends up in time out in our room for a couple of minutes and by the sound of it you would think we are beating that kid. She is screaming like a banshee. We had to give it the old college try!

Lastly, this weekend Elizabeth got a new "big girl" bed. The battle over bedtime still rages. Last night I didn't feel like listening to her scream for 20 min so I laid down next to her and rubbed her back a little. After I did that, she started to rub my arm and my face with her little hand. I finally had to lay on the floor so she would go to sleep. But those moments are keepers!

The Table refinished!

2010-08-22T22:02:00.004-06:00

Jenny's mom gave us this table when we where married. I think one of the kids spilled some finger nail polish remover on it. Here is the before and the after. Re finishing furniture is long patient work. I have no patients, plus you really need your own place to work and I don't have that. But it turned out fairly good thanks to my friend Tom who is a great wood worker.

The Terrible Two's

2010-08-12T14:33:00.002-06:00

So I have been trying the last week and a half to make the famous crib to big girl bed transition with E. She started climbing out of her crib, more like falling out, and it was either get a crib tent or just bite the bullet and put her in a bed a little early. After 9 days of pure HELL, from listening to her scream bloody murder to taking her for a drive to make her fall asleep and everywhere in between. Needless to say that the 3 of us were getting no where fast, and maxed out Tired!!! Last night we got smart and put her crib mattress on the floor. After stories and songs she fell asleep at 10 pm..hey, believe me this was progress people. Nap time today rolled around 1 so I started the process and after 10 min of her fooling around I left and shut the door. Ya, those cheap plastic door handle locks don't work for crap, so I had to hold the door closed. Then I had this idea........

but unfortunately I didn't think of that until she was like this.......

That's right, those are her toes underneath the door. In her exhaustion and frustration she gave up and lied down. I wouldn't dream of moving her for fear of waking her up. Don't you just envy me at this stage of my life right now....No? I have to admit it is quite hilarious!!

Rainy Day

2010-08-01T08:15:00.002-06:00

We love August in the ELP. Lost of rainy fun. A nice change of pace from the dry hot days of spring and early summer.

First one is titled "Forgiveness" the second is "My New Life"

2010-07-30T13:27:00.006-06:00

I feel compelled to share these heartfelt, inspiring links with all who choose to view them below. I highly recommend you do, but get a tissue. You may have already seen them on lds.org if you have watch them both again it's good for the soul.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7zwQ_7q-fU
http://www.youtube.com/mormonmessages?v=KHDvxPjsm8E

Its a girl!

2010-07-27T19:16:00.002-06:00

That is right we are about to add yet another girl to the family. For my family it is going to 6 to one. I must say that I am super happy though. I would not trade another girl for the world, only a boy. But we have two more chances for that if not, it is time to turn to science to achieve our goals. Well my goals. I don't think Jenny cares. Plus I have spent my whole life being bossed around my stinking girls its my lot in life. Look on the bright side we don't have to buy anymore clothes.

Shoop!

2010-07-27T19:11:00.003-06:00

Elizabeth is so funny! Her new favorite word is "shoop" translated that equals shoot. It is awesome when something goes amiss she says "shoop". E. has a funny little song that is titled Happy.. It goes like this. happy... happy....happy, happy, happy, happy! I believe someday she will work in Nashville as a singer songwriter.

4th of July

2010-07-18T11:59:00.001-06:00

Fireworks, swimming and gun safety makes for the one heck of a good weekend!

Elizabeth does not like the sound of fireworks. Jenny would move her hands away and E. would put them right back.

This is the gun operation safety class that all the kids had to attend to shoot and if you know the Hatches then you know that all the kids where scarred out of their minds!

Cutest swimmer ever.

Sleepy TIme Meals

2010-07-18T11:44:00.000-06:00

Sometime our food is so good that E. simply can't stay awake long enough to eat it. So enjoy!

Banged Up Wednesday!

2010-07-07T15:43:00.003-06:00

Today has been a slightly exciting day! Here's how it went down. I was at home and had just finishing working out and was about to get into the shower when i received a call from Jenny. She had been swimming at a ward members home. I thought that she was calling to tell me she was on her way home. Much to my chagrin she, informed me that she had been in an accident. She was so calm about it at first. I thought that she had just backed into somebody, but i was wrong yet again. She was turning left and did not see the car to her left and was side wiped. Much to my relief, Jenny, new baby,Elizabeth and my niece Nikelle are all well and safe. I am truly grateful that God was watching over them. The car is at the repair shop and we are going to be paying higher car insurance premiums but I don't care. I would take that over injury any day. Gratefully the lady involved in the accident does not have any major injuries. We didn't take photos before they towed the car. But it wasn't that bad as far as i can tell. Side air bags deployed and i would say they have to come out fast and furious to rip the ceiling fabric like that. So anyway Jenny, E and the Fetus are all well. I am off to get a rent a car.

It is Official

2010-06-25T10:15:00.002-06:00

Jenny is heavy with child! The baby will be due on Dec 28th. I bet he comes at Christmas. We don't know the sex but I believe he is a boy! Jenny is 13 weeks almost 14. It is going to be one crowded house!

Why the Toilets! Rated P, for... well you'll see why

2010-06-13T12:48:00.008-06:00

Preface: Readers discretion is advised as there is discussion of adult content. In this post you will come across words that my not sit well with you. I have offered three options as follows: pooh, stinkies, bio waste. You are free to use which ever word you would like. There is more explanation below.

I am not sure why E. loves to play with all manner of disgusting materials. Mostly her “stinkies” (pooh, bio wastes)! (Background, this is the word that my other brother in law Travis's family uses for pooh, because the word pooh is akin to some of the most vial language in the universe.) We have had many occasions where she has played in the toilet. I believe the attraction there is the water.

Last week while visiting my parents she managed to get in their room then their bathroom and finally you guessed it the toilet. Gross! My sister yells down the stairs, that E. is eating TP from the toilet. Did I say gross because I believe it bears repeating? I am getting light headed just thinking about it. A few days later we visiting my sister home where, she is actually feeding us more than rice or browned ground beef. (Family joke) We are eating and E. is playing with her cousin Capri, yes like the three quarter length pants that mostly women wear, sometimes metrosexuals and often hippies. Well back to my point. As... we are eating my brother in law takes Brinnley to the restroom. On his travels from the dining room to the restroom he stubbles upon some “stinkies” (pooh, bio wastes) so we all jump up from dinner and head to the hall to solve the mystery of the rogue “stinkies” (pooh, bio wastes). We all start to examine our children to find out how this “stinkies” (pooh, bio wastes) has come to reside on the carpet. I start to examine E. and much to my relieve she is not the problem and with even greater joy I find that she has not tried to examine the “stinkies” (pooh, bio wastes) with her hands. She did manage somehow to get some on her crocs. But with a little soap and water the “stinkies” (pooh, bio wastes) was eradicated from the shoe. Capri is the culprit. My sister Jamie forgot to put a diaper back on her after changing her earlier in the day. This was due to the preparation of dinner and well shopping.

These are just two of the many nasty “stinkies” (pooh, bio wastes) incidents that we have endured, will yet in endure and hope to endure.

Jamie steaming the carpet after the incident.

So You Think You Can Dance! Here we come

2010-05-29T17:24:00.002-06:00

Caketastrophe

2010-05-27T10:34:00.003-06:00

Here is how it went down. Yesterday I was helping a friend in our ward bake some cakes for a wedding cake she is decorating. I am watching TV waiting for Jenny to come home from scouts so I could frost the cakes. Suddenly I am aware that E. has gone missing and it's very quiet. I proceeded to hunt her down to see what mischief she has engaged in, it did not take me long to find out. I was in the area of the kitchen when I heard "yummy.... yummy.....yummy! I rounded the corner to find E. on the table enjoying some freshly baked chocolate cake. I wish I would have taken a photo of her on the table consuming the cake.

Before

After

Who likes the camera now?

2010-05-25T13:10:00.003-06:00

So I have been trying to get this slideshow on here without first having to click on the link below to view it, but no such luck. Sorry you just have to do the extra step. If anyone has any pointers on how I can skip this unnecessary step for future posts I would love the help. This is a slideshow of Elizabeth in my friends', Jeanne Lawyer, yard for her 18mo pictures. Jeanne is also the photographer and you can see more of her work on her website jeannelawyerphotography.com if you are interested. E has turned into quite the photogenic girl. Enjoy!

http://www.photobiz.com/slideshowbiz/slideshow.cfm?slideshowID=119743&photographerID=12143

Pray Always

2010-05-23T09:45:00.001-06:00

Reads this great talk about prayer. It is a reminder of the power of communication with out Father in Heaven.

LDS.org - Ensign Article - Pray Always

Update. It about $%#@ time!

2010-05-13T22:43:00.007-06:00

Alright Liz I know we are huge slackers! But school is out and I now have a little time to update our blog.

First and foremost Jenny is doing well she is a great mother and keeps Elizabeth out of my hair when I need to study. I always knew should be a great mother. She had plenty of training from her older siblings children. She keeps the house clean as much as you can with a 19 monther walking around behind you and destroying everything you have cleaned or folded. She is always at task for her church calling she has 2, scouting (Yuk) and visiting teaching coordinate and she is way better at doing her visiting teaching than I am at my home teaching.

As for me, School is out and I don't know what to do with myself. I will commence with a job search shortly and that is always fun. I need a job for the summer. This semester was a wild ride. We had some up and downs but all in all I manger to accomplish all. There were a few times I thought I was going to have to go my backup plan, plus sized male modeling. After nursing that sounded like the second most masculine profession i could get into. Let be honest look at this face it screams money maker. Do they just have head models, just a question?

The summer adventures being, I am sure Jenny will get up to UT as much as possible this summer. Maybe I can make it also and that is all I have to say about that! (as always please for give spelling and grammar error as English is my second language after DUH!)

The closet dweller

2010-02-25T12:47:00.002-07:00

This is her favorite thing to do right now. A girls dream: closet full of shoes to try on (who cares if you can't walk in them) they look great. Mommy has great taste!

Her bath time is getting shorter these days since she's figured out how to pull the toggle to turn on the shower and drench the entire room including mom. Once that card is delt it is the only thing she zeros in on and her bath toys are forgotten. She is so fun with her personality flare and her words becoming more pronounced she is becoming quite the little pistol.

Christmas and Pictures

2010-01-09T17:54:00.000-07:00

She is growing so fast! She just love to climb chairs. You cant see it but she had just made her first big climb!

Elizabeth loving her first real snow storm storm in El Paso

Her first snowman! It is small than out step.

Temple lights are always cool!

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2009-11-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

Blueberry Pancakes

2009-11-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth was enjoying some blueberry pancakes. SO GOOD!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-05T16:19:00.002-07:00

The first 3 pics are at the Zoo that my friend Rachel took her to cause I couldn't go. Thanks Rach. The last one is from our ward trunk or treat. I was a witch but I looked awefull in the pic so I am not showing you. I am pretty lame though because this year Elizabeth was our only pumpkin, we didn't carve the pumpkins we had. Lame I know, but I figure I can stretch them til after Thanksgiving. This year was indeed a HAPPY HALLOWEEN.

A Warm Fuzzy

2009-10-12T14:51:00.005-06:00

THE SHOE MAN

I showered and shaved............. I adjusted my tie.
I got there and sat.............. In a pew just in time.
Bowing my head in prayer......... As I closed my eyes.
I saw the shoe of the man next to me..... Touching my own. I sighed.
With plenty of room on either side...... I thought, 'Why must our

soles touch?'
It bothered me, his shoe touching mine... But it didn't bother him much.

A prayer began: 'Our Father'............. I thought, 'This man with the shoes.. has no pride.
They're dusty, worn, and scratched. Even worse, there are holes on the side!'
'Thank You for blessings,' the prayer went on.
The shoe man said............... a quiet 'Amen.'
I tried to focus on the prayer....... But my thoughts were on his shoes again.
Aren't we supposed to look our best.. When walking through that door?
'Well, this certainly isn't it,' I thought, Glancing toward the floor.
Then the prayer was ended............ And the songs of praise began.
The shoe man was certainly loud...... Sounding proud as he sang.
His voice lifted the rafters......... His hands were raised high.
The Lord could surely hear.. The shoe man's voice from the sky.
It was time for the offering....... And what I threw in was steep.
I watched as the shoe man reached.... Into his pockets so deep.
I saw what was pulled out.......... What the shoe man put in.
Then I heard a soft 'clink' as when silver hits tin.
The sermon really bored me.......... To tears, and that's no lie.
It was the same for the shoe man... For tears fell from his eyes.
At the end of the service...... As is the custom here.
We must greet new visitors.. And show them all good cheer.
But I felt moved somehow............. And wanted to meet the shoe man.
So after the closing prayer........ I reached over and shook his hand.
He was old and his skin was dark..... And his hair was truly a mess.
But I thanked him for coming......... For being our guest.
He said, 'My names' Charlie.......... I'm glad to meet you, my friend.'
There were tears in his eyes....... But he had a large, wide grin.
'Let me explain,' he said......... Wiping tears from his eyes.
'I've been coming here for months.... And you're the first to say 'Hi.''
'I know that my appearance.........'Is not like all the rest.
'But I really do try.................'To always look my best.'
'I always clean and polish my shoes..'Before my very long walk.
'But by the time I get here.........'They're dirty and dusty, like chalk.'
My heart filled with pain............ and I swallowed to hide my tears.
As he continued to apologize......... For daring to sit so near.
He said, 'When I get here...........'I know I must look a sight.
'But I thought if I could touch you..'Then maybe our souls might unite.'
I was silent for a moment............ Knowing whatever was said
Would pale in comparison... I spoke from my heart, not my head.
'Oh, you've touched me,' I said......'And taught me, in part;
'That the best of any man............'Is what is found in his heart.'
The rest, I thought,................ This shoe man will never know.
Like just how thankful I really am... That his dirty old shoe touched my soul.
You are special to me and you have made a difference in my life.
I respect you, and truly cherish you.

Elizabeths First Birthday

2009-10-12T11:58:00.005-06:00

Elizabeth first birthday was a success thanks to all of our family and friends for there support and help. Jenny will get on here soon for the play by play. Here I am ready to give a caption to the pictures. First I just have to admit that neither Todd nor I decorated her cake. We made and frosted them and even made and colored the fondant, which was such a sticky mess. I give props to Liz and all those Betty home Crokers out there who do it themselves all the time.

She was sort of dressed like Alice. It got cold though so on went the sweatshirt. The balloons were a highlight of hers.

Here she is opening her gifts which her cousins did most of the work.

On the right, she is eating her cake and loving every bite. The top layer, which she ate half of, was a spice cake. The middle layer was a yellow sour cream, and the bottom was chocolate. The sippy cup she is holding was her favorite gift.

Don't forget the Cheshire cat thanks to my friend Rachel who with her artistic ability saved me a lot of ridicule and humiliation. Isn't it awesome? It was one of 3 games that were played. Along with mad hatter musical chairs, Croquet, and The Queen says. Pretty much the last two games were forgotten because of time. It was a late night for all but tons of fun!

The cake in all its three tiere glory. Great job Heather and Thanks again. It rocked! The snow globe came with quite the price thanks to Grandma and Grandpa's blood sweat and tears. We loved it Thanks.

Elizabeth Walking

2009-09-13T13:07:00.003-06:00

Some Summer Highlights

2009-07-27T10:15:00.003-06:00

These are just a few of the things Elizabeth has been 'up to' over the summer thus far.
Getting into all of Grandma's little condiment packets in the fridge is the latest craze.
She has learned to crawl over the course of our 3 month stay in SLC as well as mounting
the stairs. Coming back down however, is another story. She is quite the curious little lady
and mom has found out along the way that grass is our arch nemesis. She is quite allergic
to it, breaks out in a rash everywhere. Needless to say, the two of us did not get a lot of
sleep last night.

With her cousin Lindsay, who absolutely adores Elle and never leaves her side. In this photo we are at the 24th of July Parade and they are taking a break from the heat.

One 'Bright' Easter Day

2009-04-29T22:27:00.002-06:00

The Liljenquist Family Photo
Easter in St. George of 2009
The Grandkid photo is my favorite as you can plainly see why.

I don't think it could have been sunnier for this blessed event. It was so sunny in fact, that the suns brightness was nullified next to my extremely pasty white legs.
Whose idea was it to put miss 'illuminate' in the front row for all innocent viewers to be blinded.

Fasten your seat belts kids & don't forget the safety eye ware!

Home for Spring Break!

2009-04-06T22:37:00.001-06:00

Just a highlight of our visit to good ol' Salt Lake. Elizabeth was a total trooper on the long car ride to and from El Paso (what can I say she is one awesome little cutie). I am so glad that she isn't like her mom, unphotogenic for the camera. Doesn't she have the cutest friend in the top photo, Lilly Brog, Liz we have the most freaking Awesome kids ever! My favorite is the last one with the Angel Moroni just waving 'Hi' to everyone. She is fascinated with her hands and the many different movements they can make.

We suck!

2009-04-01T22:57:00.000-06:00

That is all I have to say about our post ability!

First time eating rice cereal

2009-03-07T19:26:00.004-07:00

I am a lame Blogger!

2009-01-31T12:12:00.003-07:00

This was our New Years eve party. Elizabeth looks good in a plastic crown huh? I am a slacker and need to take pictures of her with our camera instead of my phone so it is easier to transfer the photos. Recent Updates: She is growing like gangbusters and needs to stop that. We are due for her cardiologist check-up in March so cross your fingers that it will be our last visit. Todd is busy in school and I am just playin mom 24/7 which I love. We are going to a Superbowl party at our friends for something different this weekend.

Home for the Holidays

2009-01-13T19:44:00.003-07:00

Me and grandma Allen
Christmas Eve at aunt Kia's house with my aunt Tricia.
Me and Uncle Dev.
This is me in my beautiful Christmas Dress at Kilee and Ty's wedding.

Aren't I cute?

Elizabeth's Blessing

2008-12-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

FOTOS!

2008-11-22T15:07:00.002-07:00

Ellie (elizabeth), is not sure how she feels about her baths. Sometimes she likes them and sometimes she doesn't. This is one of the times where she enjoyed her bath!

Jenny and the baby posing for a hot photo.

Look at that red hair

she was trying to fly away!

Grandma and Grandma Allen Visit.

2008-11-02T21:31:00.002-07:00

Elizabeth after her bath!

Grandma and grandpa came to visit.
I like to sleep on mom and dads bed!

Happy Halloween!

Pictures for the people!

2008-10-21T14:54:00.002-06:00

She loves it when Daddy kisses her feet. So much in fact that she grips his lips with her toes. I had taken others, but Todd deleted the rest for some reason. The rest of these are right after bath time with Grandma. Oh Boy does she love her Grandma spoiling her every minute. She is one Lucky KID! We will be so sad when Grandma has to leave. She has been Mommy's saving grace this whole time. Thank you Mom so much for everything you've done for us. We are extremely blessed to have you in our lives and wish you could stay forever. Whatever would we do without Grandma? Hugs and Kisses from your adorable little Grand-daughter.

Here are some more

2008-10-13T11:52:00.002-06:00

Here are more photos of our baby girl!

Elizabeth Jane is here.

2008-10-07T22:41:00.000-06:00

Well here she is . Elizabeth Jane has made her way onto the scene and we are glad to have her. She likes her dad! Well of course she likes her mom. She seems to be a very content little girl. She is seven lbs and 4.4 oz. She is 21 1/4 inch long and as you can see she is rocking a sweet full head of hair. She has her dads nose and mothers lips. She is killer!

Thanks for the Shower

2008-10-02T12:37:00.002-06:00

A Big Thank you to all of our family and friends for everything you have done for us! Tiff the shower was great and thanks for all of your hard work. Thank you everyone who helped. We are so very blessed to have great people who support us. Janeen & Max, thank you for every thing that you sent us for the baby. This post is for anyone who as done or given us anything. Thank you very much!

Quilt!

2008-10-02T12:27:00.000-06:00

Our friend Nicole made us this dope quilt. She is really talented and i think could make a lot of money with her skills.

36 weeks! Are we there yet?

2008-09-17T22:35:00.003-06:00

Jenny is 36 weeks and hanging in there like a champ!

Liz This One For you

2008-09-10T21:41:00.001-06:00

Jenny 35 Weeks

These are photo's of Jenny at 35 weeks! She didn't want anyone to see her this way. But I made her do it anyway. She looks cute preggers!

CAUTION...not for the bashful or easily embarassed

2008-09-08T19:24:00.007-06:00

The Polite Way to Pee

During one of her daily classes, a teacher trying to teach good
manners, asked her students the following question:

'Mike, if you were on a date having dinner with a nice young lady, how
would you tell her that you have to go to the bathroom?'

Mike said: 'Just a minute I have to go pee.'

The teacher responded by saying: 'That would be rude and impolite.'

'What about you Sherman, how would you say it?'

Sherman said: 'I am sorry, but I really need to go to the bathroom.
I'll be right back.'

'That's better, but it's still not very nice to say the word bathroom
at the dinner table.'

And you, little Barry, can you use your brain for once and show us
your good manners?'

Barry said, 'I would say: Darling, may I please be excused for a
moment? I have to shake hands with a very dear friend of mine, whom I
hope to introduce you to after dinner.'

The teacher fainted.

Our Album of Alaska!

2008-08-02T16:53:00.002-06:00

Liz this is for you. Here is the link to our web album from our trip to Alaska.

http://picasaweb.google.com/mtallen76/Alaska

Alaska

2008-07-28T21:36:00.001-06:00

We had a great time in Alaska with Jenny's family! We where able to see a lot of beautiful scenery! Here is a couple of photos. This is our first excursion in Juneau, Alaska. Todd caught a Silver Salmon for the first time ever in his few times fishing.

This is a real Bear print on our "hiking for bears" in Skagway, Alaska..our second excursion. We were in the wild picking strawberries that were so delicious to the taste. Even the little white ones were pretty sweet on the pallet.

Our Ship got really close to this breath taking Glacier which had some Sea Lions or Seals (not sure which) resting on the floating ice around us. Was too cold a day to be wearing my flip flops so I didn't stay out side for long.

Post card perfect picture that Todd actually took on Queen Anne's Hill over looking the Seattle skyline at night. So cool that the camera captured the reddish glow in the sky.

24 weeks Pregnant

2008-06-28T09:32:00.005-06:00

These first two were taken today, which makes 25 weeks.

Here you go Liz, I am humiliating myself just for you. I hope it is appreciated by all who see it. I don't normally take pictures of myself, let alone with a belly. Just so you know I went to get another ultrasound yesterday and I was at 25 weeks so these pictures are a week old. I already feel like my belly has inflated even more.

My tests came back and I am not anemic nor do I have diabetes. That is good to know. The baby is healthy and doesn't have clef palit or however it is pronounced. She is definitely still a girl and an active one at that. She keeps her mom very aware of her existence. Sometimes I swear she is doing summer salts or cartwheels. Of course her favorite time to be the most active is when I lay down at night to go to sleep. Luckily, I've gotten pretty good at sleeping through most of it.

Boy I'll tell ya one thing for certain...I am more of a sissy than I thought. If I moan and scream with these 'round ligament' pains than I am in trouble come delivery time. You know the pain I am talking about. When the ligaments that support your uterus are stretching to accommodate its increasing weight. I just about crushed Todd's hand the first time I experienced this blissful feeling. I actually had real tears that time, but luckily last nights episode was not as extreme. Wow..can't wait for the indescribable pain to occur!

Very Late for Fathers Day

2008-06-19T14:55:00.004-06:00

What can I say except this is typical of me. I wanted to post something to my adorable husband on Fathers Day but didn't and now it is late like everything else in my life. So sorry honey...this one is for you Babe!

Words can not describe accurately my feelings for my cute husband. He is so thoughtful and sweet all the time. I swear he is always thinking of what he can do to make my life easier. For example: He has been the one cleaning the house lately. Since I've been pregnant and go to work all day the last thing I want to do on Saturday is clean my Townhouse. I just want to spend time with him doing fun things. He is the cook of the household. As most of you know Todd enjoys cooking and is very good at it. He has recently gotten into the baking realm of the kitchen and, sorry to say, has passed me up by now. To give myself some credit he hasn't tried to make a mean loaf of banana bread yet, thanks honey, but that one's mine. He even gets up when I do to make me breakfast sometimes to make sure I eat well for both baby and me in the morning. I am usually in a rush in the morning because I love my sleep, a little too much perhaps.

He has such patience with me when I give him a full report of my pregnancy aches and pains. He even gives me back and neck massages when I should be giving them to him every night. The mood swings...awe where do I begin. The poor guy has endured many of those and am sorry to say they may get worse in the third trimester.

Most of all...is the excitement I feel when I think about the future and what lies ahead as this phase of our life unfolds. I am so blessed to be able to share all of them with you by my side Todd.

2008-06-03T16:05:00.004-06:00

Well, well, well...who knew that because my belly button is protruding outward so far that it looks like you could turn it like a door knob. It turns out that I have a herniated 'giant knob' in place of what used to look like my cute little belly button. UGH!! It doesn't hurt, but that doesn't mean that it couldn't turn green at any moment. Much to my dismay it can actually do that..ewe! Hopefully it won't grow any eyes and a mouth and try to eat us either. Sometimes being pregnant just feels that 'alien' to me, can anyone else relate those weird feelings?

For instance- she has just, within the last 2 days, started moving around to the point where I can feel her. She is nudging and kicking and doing cartwheels within me and boy sometimes it is Funky! Todd says it feels strange to put his hand on my tummy and feel her kicking, punching, what have you. It is fun to finally feel another life after so long of wondering when reality would sink in.

I am due for another sonogram in a few weeks so they can look at her face and check the sex for sure this time. It was a bit of a guessing game last time I gather so hopefully this time it will be legit. I want to start buying the baby some stuff for preparation purposes. Cross your fingers that 'little peanut' is more cooperative this time around.

Jane at 3 weeks!

2008-05-23T08:36:00.004-06:00

This is my precious niece Jane Benson. She is the cutest little doll and I can't wait to see her in person. I have not only had a new niece born 3 weeks ago, but my friends Liz & Caryn had their babies in the same week. OH how eager it makes me to get my little peanut here so I can hold her and love her and smother her with kisses.

I have a funny story: One night I overheard Todd telling his friend on the phone that he hopes that his babies take after the Allen's because even though his wife's family has cute babies they have no hair until they're like two years old. Now, I want you to look at this picture and tell me that whether or not they have hair plays a roll in determining their cute factor! Honey, looking at the two of us it isn't even a question that our kids will be more than adorable...now watch we'll get a squealer or something because of that remark.

Carlsbad Caverns

2008-05-14T17:00:00.001-06:00

OK so we went to Carlsbad Caverns last weekend and had a great time. We went with our friends Trent and Rachael. Here are a few of the pictures that I took. Jenny would have wanted more of the pictures with us in them, but these are the few that I chose. It was so dark down there that a lot of them didn't turn out.
I would recommend the walk through of the Caverns even though I think we bypassed the other cavern so I really can't comment on that one. This picture here is a big formation of Limestone that has been growing for many years.It was a little disappointing that you weren't allowed to touch the rocks and you had to stay on the trail. All in all it was worth the drive to get out of El Paso for a while.

it looks like an A

2008-05-06T17:10:00.002-06:00

Unofficially, I have an A in Anatomy and Physiology. It looks like I will be starting RN program in the fall. It is good to feel like I have accomplished a small goal in the long fight to finish school. "A lot of people go to college for 7 years." "Yeah their called doctors." That about what it feels like. Seven years or 20. But we are moving forward and that is all that matters. Jenny is doing well. The baby is growing and all is well. In a couple more weeks we get to find out what we are having. My money is on a girl.

Maybe Baby!

2008-04-27T19:45:00.004-06:00

Ok, we went to the doctors on Thursday. The baby is looking and doing well. We were able to see the baby spine, legs, and arms. Also, we are thinking the baby may be a girl, do to preliminary testing. We are looking forward to the next check up. When the sex of the baby is easier to identify.

Following the path of Greg Focker

2008-04-21T15:37:00.003-06:00

So on the school front, I am in the nursing program as long as I get an A in my A&P class. It helps me to feel a lot better about being here in crazy TX. So far I have an A. I think I can keep it up!

Jenny's Weekend Birthday Extravaganza

2008-04-11T17:23:00.005-06:00

It was Jenny's Birthday, last week and it was quite the party. Jone came into town to surprise Jenny. We suck at taking photo's. We should have taken one of Jenny and Jone while she was here. But I think all parties involved had a good time.

Week 12

2008-03-27T18:56:00.004-06:00

Here is Baby Allen at week 12. Not much to look at. Right now. it looks more like an Alien than a baby. Crazy how much they change. I can't wait tell week 16. Well the baby is 5.27 cm long and is doing well.

CRAZY

2008-03-25T21:57:00.004-06:00

Jenny is starting to get a little nuts! No I am kidding. But, this weekend went to Motherhood. Jenny tried on some maternity clothes and put on the little tummy to simulate being pregnant. It was pretty funny and Jenny will be very cute when she is heavy with child. We had a good time. Jenny was able to buy some cute clothes. So it feels like we are on our way. Seriously it seems surreal to be having a baby. Sometimes I can't wait and others I am freaking out. On the other hand it will be fun to buy stuff and having a baby requires lots of stuff. Like this stroller!

Ruidoso, New Mexico

2008-03-07T20:11:00.000-07:00

We went to Ruidoso, New Mexico with some friends and this is the only photo we took. Man, we suck at taking pictures lately

Here's Baby!

2008-03-06T21:28:00.005-07:00

OK, I know parents do a lot of lame stuff, but that is our right as this is our first kid. There will be more Intel coming!

Baby Allen

2008-03-05T10:39:00.001-07:00

Well I guess I can finally spill the beans now. Yes, we are expecting a baby in October! We will be posting a picture of our little peanut soon enough. I just wanted to get that out there to all those who haven't heard yet, sorry Caryn and Abbey, I haven't really told anyone but family back home. I am just trying to figure out when I want to come home to have a baby shower....wink wink (that was a pretty big hint). It is fun because I won't be too far behind Liz and Caryn. Awwe, I wish I could have thrown you guys a shower!

AWWE CRAP.....A SHOT OF WHAT?!!

2008-02-12T09:13:00.000-07:00

So, last month I went to the Health Clinic because my tonsels were the size of golf balls and I couldn't even talk. The Doc walks in and immediately was like Whoa your face is swollen on the left side. The moment I tried to gurgle out a sentence she was already to take a Strep test. Sure enough I had it, but because it was so bad she said she was going to give me two shots right now. Granted, I knew I should of gotten to the Dr. earlier than I did so it was expected to get a shot of the Antibiotic, but hold the phone...it sounded like she said the word STEROIDS!

Oh wait, she did say STEROID! Yep, for the swelling she gave me some steroid shot and let me tell you those suckers don't enter your blood stream gingerly by any means. WHOooEA, that was one thick liquid in a serynge. Anyone know how to spell SERYNGE? Cause I don't!

Todd had a good birthday, although, he might argue that because he had to go to the Church Broadcast fireside on a Saturday night. I made him a German Chocolate Cake, from scratch I might add, that turned out a little dry. Mmm Good! I gave him a Tennis raquet and I got one as well with the balls too. So, we have been talking about taking up Tennis for awhile now, so I finally went out and got some. Now all we need is to learn how. Hope I can aquire some good hand eye coordination and fast.

Another must see from youtube

2008-01-24T20:41:00.000-07:00

So, I couldn't figure out how to get the video on my blog, but I did get the link. You need to see what a real interpreter sounds like. This is AWESOME!! and it puts my Chinese accent to shame. So check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INOL2zVv7mw

Same Old...Same Old

2008-01-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

Well, not much has changed since Christmas. We had a great El Paso Christmas. Nice, quiet and sunny was what we had this year. It was nice to not be running around between two families with our heads cut off. My Mother's visit was short but, fun and definately overdue. I think she needs to come to visit about every six months. I hope she wasn't too boerd with little to do here as far as entertainment goes. I did take her to Mesilla Valley to go shopping and while I was at work Todd took her to the Missions of El Paso. I don't know a lot about it, but I guess some early settlers passed through or something. All and all it was a good time.
Now to the good news...We are going to.....Alaska!!! I am so excited I can't stand it! My family is going on a Caribean Cruise to Alaska in July for a whole week. The only bad thing is that it takes up my vacation time so that I can't come home this summer. Hopefuly though, we might come home for a short weekend in February. Todd's cousin is getting married over Valentines and I hope to come with Todd. Cross your fingers so when, or if, I come we can get the crew together for Lunch or something.

The True meaning of Christmas

2007-12-22T22:46:00.000-07:00

As Jenny explained in her last post; we had the opportunity to help two less fortunate children this year. While Jenny was working last week, I went to the mall to find someone to help for Christmas. As I was looking through the ornaments that contained the information of the persons in need. I came a cross a little girl who was six years old and instantly felt a connection with her. All she wanted was a Bratz doll and clothes for Christmas. I knew right away she was a good candidate.

I decided to keep looking to see if I came across someone else I might feel more inspired to help. I soon found an ornament for a 17 year old girl who spends her time after school volunteering for a latch key program in her neighborhood. All she wanted was a gift certificate. What could I do? I was torn! Who should we help out. I felt attached to both of the girls right away. I felt like both girls could use the help. The decision was made to help them both.

Jenny and I went out and shopped for the little girl. We bought her clothes and the Bratz doll. The gift card for the older girl was easy. We wrapped all the gifts and placed the gift card in a stocking with some candy. Again, Jenny was at work so it was up to me to deliver the gifts. So I was off to the mall to drop them off. I made it to the mall with no trouble. The delivery was completed and as I was walking out of the mall, I became teary eyed. I was over whelmed with the spirit. My heart was warmed by the opportunity to help others. That is when this idea struck me. What we give is not important, for gifts will fade. But, what we learn by giving is the true gift of Christmas. Those girls may not remember the gifts, but I will for the rest of my life remember how it felt to give a little and receive so much in return. In Moroni seven it speaks of giving a gift and that one must give for the right reasons. I now see why giving has to come from the heart. I know that I have been given back tenfold compared to what was given. I will be warmed by the memory of this Christmas for years to come.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!

What about you..have you been NAUGHTY or NICE?

2007-12-22T16:02:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, this isn't the real Santa Claus. It really is TODD at our ward Christmas party. Our friend asked if he would do it and with a little persuasion he finally agreed. After it was all said and done he admitted that he had a fun time playing "Jolly Ol' Saint Nick" and he didn't even get peed on once. He did have a couple of criers and some that were just too shocked to know what to do. One kid admitted to being nughty when he asked if they have been good. The whole experience was quite hillarious if you ask me.

Other than his beard, I think he pulled it off without too many raised eyebrows. Except, his nieces knew right away that it was him. Celeste, the 4 year old, had a hard time believing her sister when she told her he wasn't the "real Santa" and then later she asked Todd to confirm it for her. He said, "what do you think" when she asked if he was really Santa and she said "no it couldn't have been Uncle Todd." Poor girl has been hit with the disturbing possibility that there really is no such thing as Santa Claus at such a young age. She stewed over that for all of three seconds, I imagine.

I still have the unpleasent experience of learning that there was no such person as Santa permenantly ingrained in my memory. I can't remember how old I was, but we were in the car and I remember asking my Mom and she said something to the effect of, "who do you think goes to the mall and does all the shopping for their kids?" I was astonished to say the least! I remeber being mad that she didn't lie to me or at least let me go on being misled a little while longer. I guess because we all have to focuss on what the true meaning of Christmas is all about sooner in life rather than later.

Speaking of the true meaning of Christmas, this year we decided to try and follow Christ's example and show more Charity for others. So we had the idea of doing a "Sub for Santa" for children, which we got their names from the Christmas Tree at the Mall. I will let Todd finish telling the story since he was the one who took their wrapped gifts to the Mall so they could get them before Christmas......

Grades

2007-12-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have received my grades from last semester. I must say I pulled one over on most of my teachers. I have three A's and a c. I earned a c in my "Texas Gov." class. So lame! I hated that class, it was ridiculous. Texas is so pretentious that they force you to take a state government class. I don't know about the rest of you but, I believe I took my state government class in elementary school. At the beginning of the class my professor was telling us how great Texas is and everyone in the nation thinks Texas is wonderful. The whole time I am sitting at my desk thinking have you ever been out of the state of Texas? Everyone outside of Texas thinks it is lame! So I acted out in open rebellion and never went to class. How can I take this class seriously? I can't, it was ridiculous! But I can't complain about the rest of my grades because I don't go to those classes ether. SHHH don't tell Jenny!

Let it Rain

2007-12-10T20:02:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day! It rained all day long and I loved it. This is the second time this year it almost felt like winter. Not only that but school is over. I can't tell you how glad I am that it is all over. This weekend Jenny and I went to Mexico with my sister for her brother-in-law wedding, (he's the youngest of the seven Hatch bros.) we helped with the food and had a good time. Now for some sad news, we will not be coming home for Christmas. We are stuck here in El Paso for the holidays. The good news is that Jenny's mother, Jone will be in town to visit. We are excited to show her old El Paso. I need to brush up on the history of this great state. It will be a good time.

It has been a while

2007-11-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

This is for you Lizzy for thinking that I've fallen off the face of the earth. OK, so I am not so good at being consistant with my posts...don't be a hater BABY!! Things with Todd and I are a little stressful right now, this week at least, between Todds finals and my boss telling me I can't go home for Christmas. I about decked him when he denied my request. I'll have to explain it all in a later post because I have to get back to work. Sorry that this is such a crappy short post today. SERENITY NOW (as Mr. Castanza would say from the TV show Sienfield) I miss that freakin' show!!

God's Hands

2007-11-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

So I was on the Brog blog and was inspired by Liz's Thanksgiving message. I had to go and reread President Eyring talk, "O Remember, Remember". Near the end of his talk about the light of Christ and how all men are born with this light. I must say that I agree and believe it is true. We are born with an inherent ability to know right from wrong. Elder Erying also spoke about remembering God’s hands in all things. I started to think about Gods hand in my life and how he has guided me through life to this point.

The good influence of family and friends to get me on a mission
Jobs, the Lord guided me to BISYS for two reason
T0 be able to attain my gastric by pass
To meet Katie Stone
Katie Stone lead me to Jenny
Finally, to now, where he has lead us to El Paso for school. I am still not sure why El Paso. But, as time passes I know it will become evident.

This is brief list of how the lord has helped me down my path. Jenny is clearly the most important piece of the puzzle. I am grateful that I have done what I can to be on the path that God has placed before me. I just hope that I will do better to stay on the path.

Road Map to Life

2007-11-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

So, my last two post where a bit on the negative side. I decided to make this one lighter than the before mentioned post. I am no longer worried about why I didn't get into the program this spring. I decided this is in God’s hands; after all he is the reason we are here in El Paso. He knows the plan and has the map of our lives laid before him. In God we must trust. Our trials are made to strengthen us and prepare us for a greater challenge. I hope that I will be ready for the next one. God is love!

Light at the End of the Tunnel

2007-11-08T16:30:00.000-07:00

OK, so I went and spoke with Nina (RN school counselor) so she said that there was a freakishly high average of grades this semester, any other semester I would have at least been on the waiting list, but not this semester. Also UTEP will not take my B in anatomy that I received after taking it for the second time. So what I am doing next semester is taking anatomy AGAIN! When I get an A in that class I will be admitted in the fall for sure. It is basically because of bureaucracy that I am not in the program this semester. LAME! Good news, if I start in the fall I can take summer school in the summer of 09, this will put me back in pace with the spring class. Ugh!

AWWW CRAP!

2007-11-05T21:51:00.001-07:00

Well kids, I am the recipient of some bad news. I received an email telling me I am too stupid to be admitted into the nursing program. So it is back to the drawing board. I will take a couple of classes that will help my cause for next fall. For the recovery process I will have a few drinks, eat lots of chocolate, write my paper for TX Government and maybe go for some tacos. "If it doesn't kill you it will only make you stronger". I think that rapper Kanye West said that.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

2007-10-30T18:58:00.000-06:00

So if you know Jenny, then you know that she loves Halloween more than she loves me. Therefore she has asked me to publish this pumpkin's backside. So on our behalf please enjoy Halloween! (P.S. we didn't do the carving)

PUMPKIN ANYONE?

Brinnly

2007-10-24T21:22:00.000-06:00

This is my neice Brinnly. Isn't she cute? I think so

Sunrise , SUNSET!

2007-10-24T21:07:00.000-06:00

Enjoy a nice desert sunset. I took this while we where in St. George a couple of weeks ago.

Jennifer's Wedding

2007-10-24T20:53:00.000-06:00

Last weekend we where in Salt Lake for my sister wedding and we had a great time. Here we are looking hot! Well here Jenny is looking hot, I am more like an accessory.

I GOT A JOB!!

2007-09-27T15:01:00.000-06:00

Basicly, this is going out to you Liz since you are the only one who will see or read it. I got a job working for the Church in maintaining the LDS owned buildings near us. I don't start 'til the tenth of October because I am in St. George right now and will be until the nineth of October. We will finally have health benefits again. Hooray!! and I'll be making more than I have since I moved here.

St. George is beautiful right now. The weather is perfect! I am looking forward to spending 2 whole weeks here since it doesn't look promising that I'll be coming home for Christmas this year. With my new job I only get 1 sick/vacation day per pay period. That doesn't add up to much by the time December rolls around. First and foremost is Halloween which I absolutely LOVE! Now, if I could just get Todd to be as stoked as I am.

Holy White Legs Batman

2007-09-03T23:01:00.000-06:00

How about a farmers tan anyone? This is me looking scarred the first time wake surfing. It was more like lower level wake boarding. Me needs to spend more time on the lake that is for sure.

Our First Post

2007-08-31T16:38:00.000-06:00

Hey all,

I came home from school today and found Jenny busy on the computer. I was surprised to find out she had started a blog all our own. This can be a good way for friends and family to keep in touch and found out what is going on in our lives here is Texas. I hope people will keep us posted through here as well.

The Summer is Almost Over

2007-08-31T16:26:00.000-06:00

I have been meaning to post this for a couple of days. I must say time flies when you are having fun. This whole summer has been a whirl wind. London and Paris went by in a blur. I still say that is because Jenny is a taskmaster when it comes to site seeing. Bear Lake is a distant memory and now I am back in the clutches of a formal education. What this teaches me is that I need to slow down and take live in as it goes or it is going to pass me by. Make the most of the time I have and spend the time wisely!