The Cooks

Reese's blessing

2012-02-07T09:06:00.029-07:00

This is Reese's favorite pass time. THANK YOU!

These little feet need to find their way to some Rainbow sandals.

Here are Owen and Bella. Cute little bugs.

Great Grandma Cook and Gin.

Grandma Lou and great Grandma Gin.

Lucy

Owen

Owen singing, "Do as I'm doing."

Grandma, Alli, Grandma and Reesey piece.

Great Grandma Cook and Reese.

Reese and Daddy.

Reese is such a content little bug.

Our family picture:)

Reuben's sister, Rebekah and her family came up for the blessing.

Grandma Lou and Reese

4 generations!

Me and Reesey ball. Cute face Reese.

"Hello."

Her whole face scrunches up when she smiles.

In her blessing, the word, "peaceful" came up quite a bit. What a peacemaker we have. Lucky us!

We are blessed to have such a GREAT baby. She sleeps through the night and doesn't mind the CONSTANT attention from Owen. We love you Reesey.

Christmas- Jan and this is really long

2012-01-16T11:30:00.051-07:00

First we shall start off with Christmas. We spent Christmas this year at home, no traveling because Reese is calling the shots now.

"Let there be Christmas!"

Santa brought Owen lots of books (which he was over after the first two), a table for legos and coloring, as well as a slinky, stuffed animal, and magnadoodle.

Owen also woke up at 5am. I could have fixed my eyes, but that's about right.

Love the smile O.

The traditional apple and orange in the stocking.

Christmas was great. Sort of a blur... but great.

Reese is a great little bug. She sleeps through the night and has since day one. She also eats and breathes... so already she's ahead of what Owen was doing. Although we love him just the same.

Then the Aunts came - Heather.

Brek stayed at our house and was the master cleaner and baby holder.

Owen offering a word of prayer before he steps off the top step. Awesome.

"Respect!" Owen has just figured out how to do thumbs up.

If you're good he'll flash a double thumbs up.

Sometimes he tries to snap and do thumbs up.

This is what he did after we let him watch 5 minutes of Pooh on my phone.

Owen and B and Grandma's house.

Grandma Gin and Owen walking to Farrs, which is always a must no matter what time of year.

If you ever spot Pooh, rules are you have to squeeze him as tight as possible.

Little ol Gin.

Ice cream makes them happy.

flying!

Playing with Grandma Gin. Owen would "close his eyes," and then try to grab grandma's hand before she pulled it away.

Almost!

Owen dancing in the car.

This day doesn't need any explanation. I love being out and both kids need their diapers changed and you realize you didn't bring any. Dig it!

Later in the week we went to the Natural History Museum in Salt Lake.

He let us know that he was a fan.

Reeseeeeee decided to destroy her outfit and turns out, we didn't bring another one of those.

Fishing with dad.

Choosing a good activity and hanging from the bar.

"Tadaah!"

"Sometimes my cheeks grow when I sleep a lot."

This was Reese's first day at church.

Watching dad sing a song that he doesn't know the words to.

Reese wore purple in honor of Jenna, whose homecoming we could not attend.

Owen figured out how to take pictures of himself, cheers.

For the last time

2011-12-20T08:15:00.011-07:00

On Sunday we went to Temple Square, this time to see Sister Mettra for the last time as a missionary (we had permission from her President this time). This is what happened...

After stepping out of the South Visitor's center, we took a shot with Hyrum, Joseph, Sister Mettra and O. It was 20 degrees.

Reading The Book of Mormon puts a smile on my face too.

Sister Mettra and baby Reese. Beanie by H if you wanted to know.

Sister Mettra making an EASY contact.

Owen committing to read.

Learning from Sister Mettra and Harmer.

Being a thug.

Taking Sister Mettra on her final walk off the square. Going, going....

Gone! Sister Mettra will be home in a matter of hours. She is spending all morning in the airport in hopes to find a few more souls to teach before coming home. We'll miss having such a hard working missionary so close. Sister Mettra worked REALLY hard to the end and was able to touch many hearts. Welcome home Sister Mettra (#2... hopefully we will have a Sister Mettra #3).

Meet Reese!

2011-12-08T20:00:00.020-07:00

Here is Reese Bela Cook and this is her story. On Monday I went to the doctor and was at a 3 and 80% effaced. I thought FOR SURE I would be in labor that night, especially when I ran up and down those stairs for as long as I did. Nothing happened. The morning of the 6th was my scheduled induction. I felt bad that I was choosing to be induced early, I just had a feeling that if my water were to break, things would go fast and I wouldn't have time to get Reuben up from Orem, Owen to where he needed to be and me to murray. So we went in at 8am. I was having a few contractions on my own:) At 9:45am they started the pitocin. After that they broke my water, I got my epidural, I felt so much pressure that they needed to come back in and check me often, they turned off the pitocin after the first upgrade, I pushed through two contractions and then Reese came at 11:54am. For only about two hours of labor, I was glad that I was induced that day. Owen's labor was 5 hours, Reese's was 2, the next one will most likely occur in the car.

Reese Bela Cook. Weighing 7.8lbs and was 20.25 inches long.

Owen came to visit us and thought all the buttons he could push was a great way to let him know he had a new sister.

We chose the middle name Bela because Reuben said that one of the first things he thought when he saw her was how beautiful she was. Bela is beautiful in Portuguese.

He ran up and down the halls, laughing and then would come in to give Reese her binki and a kiss, then he was gone again.

Poor Owen was so tired the first time he came to visit.

He did manage to show us his teeth though.

Reese's first day on the job as head elf.

Owen can take care of Reese with out even looking.

"Tadah, here is Reese."

"Okay, can we give her back now. She's stealing the show."

Reese, all wrapped up! She likes to sleep and not eat. Oh and sometimes not breath very well. Sounds like someone else I know when he was a baby. We are SO EXCITED to welcome Reese. Owen is doing great with her and I am awake enough to post this blog so that means we are doing great!!!!

Temple Square

2011-12-05T18:54:00.009-07:00

It's a tradition that we go see the Christmas lights on temple square, even if we happen to spot a little lady with a tag. In real life.. we didn't try to find her this time.

This tree really was the coolest. It was orange!

Owen opting for the closed mouth smile.

Almost all the kidlets in my fam. Brek- you missed out.

Owen kind of in shock that we are going to keep him out in the freezing cold.

It's a good shot for the jaw line but DANG didn't do a thing for my mid section.

Oh Hey!!!!

Yay family!

We attempted to sprint walk Temple Square to get some contractions going. Turns out that didn't work. My induction time is tomorrow at 7:30am, I guess then I can stop trying to get myself to go into labor because I'll be DONE! Next post, Owen's sister:)

Tis time to give thanks

2011-11-24T18:41:00.024-07:00

On Wednesday one of my favorite people came to visit, Tracy! She brought Penny too. Here is evidence that Owen and Penny met and shared a toy or two.

Owen sitting in a daze.

On Thanksgiving (which is today) we went up to Snowbasin with Dennis, Kathy, Grandma Gin, Lindsey and Sammy. Here was our view from the lodge. Rough life...

And another...

The food was great. Of all the things Owen decided that he would have ice cream and 4 blue berries. What a Thanksgiving feast.

"Sweet costumes guys, it's not Halloween though." He stared at every person that came in with ski gear on.

" I hate the paparazzi."

"Did I ever tell you of the time..." Owen likes telling us stories.

"Oh my gosh, there is so much food and I'm not going to eat ANY OF IT!!!"

My best picture

Reuben's best

Owen's best

Singing along to "Frosty the Snowman."

"OooooooOOOOOOooooo." He's pretty good at back up.

"Whatever, that was lame."

"Um get me out?"

This poor child has had no pictures. Turns out the second time around you're just not as cute or excited about your stomach stretching.

She is dang heavy.

Ummm this looks fun, right?

Word on the street: 38 weeks, dilated to a 3, 75% effaced, not a contraction in the world, my sciatic nerve on the right side pops when I try to lay down or walk fast, can't really breath when laying on my side- which appears to be the only choice and READY to meet this little bug. If nothing happens, she will come on the 6th... done and done:)

Halloween

2011-10-31T21:27:00.019-06:00

This week was Reuben's 30th birthday!!!!!! We had a birthday dinner for him on Sunday but we've been celebrating since September.

Next on our October list was of course Halloween. Last year it snowed so Owen did not go out, but this year he wanted to make sure to get some more sugar in our house. All commentary will be made by him.

"Oh my gosh. I rolled it and cut it all by myself."

"I've been rolling this for days, I can do it without even looking now."

"Get that pin out of my way...please."

"He shoots, he scores!"

"If you watch me, I can teach you how to roll with just your fingers, so you don't dirty your hands too much."

"Double time."

"Hi, my name is Owen. I am 28 inches tall, don't weigh enough to face forward when we drive and looking for work."
"

"Chillin with Teen Wolf."

"Sometimes when I eat too many smarties, I become a little woozy and it's hard to keep my hat on."

"You mean people everywhere are just giving out free candy tonight?"

"Candy, candy, must get candy."

"Three lolly pops is always a better choice than lunch and dinner."

"This one is mine, got it?"

"It's cool that Grandma Lou shows up at all my big events."

"Alan and me just slipping away into a sugar induced coma."

"Dad made mom dress up like a gorilla. He told her it made her look skinny. Mommy told me later that she would tell me what happens to liars."

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Little by little

2011-10-22T09:32:00.024-06:00

Little by little we are finishing this house. My family would probably like to see what has become of the hours of digging holes and moving rocks that they all participated in.

Here is the walk way with mason jars and pop corn which will probably light the house on fire.

Our crab apple tree just arrived yesterday, which now we need to plant. We have the high grass and trees in the front to create a fence until we get our picket fence, next spring.

we still have to put the mulch in but we had to wait until we fixed all the drip lines. This looks pretty good for mid October in Utah.

Next we'll move inside where we have attempted our own back splash. Thanks to Heather... it looks perfect.

Our walls look pink, but they're yellow.

Here is our mirror that was actually done in August. It started out black, so we primed it, painted it ocean blue and sanded the crap out of it. Later Reuben stepped on the mirror and broke it and then Owen proceeded to take a red marker and add his "design" to the frame. Here it is though, ALL DONE!

This is the only place where we can put anything.

Now onto Owen. These are off our phones, so some aren't that great.

Not sure if he agrees with the quarter back change. He does now though since BYU has won a few games.

Making Aunt Karen proud. He LOVES his popcorn.

After I put on this puff-ball jacket he rolled up one of his pant legs. I felt it needed to be documented.

In the corner thinking of what he wants to destroy next.

In the weeds, watching the trucks build a house.

Super relaxed and actually eating. I'm sure he just sucked on this granola bar as to not consume too many calories.

Signs of a good nap:)

His pass-time.

Happy Halloween!

Owen walks around the house and finds all the binkies he can. He'll shove them all in this mouth if you try to take them away.

Realizing he couldn't make a clean shot, he took his chair and put himself through the hoop.

"Hiding."

Hanging out in his chair that matches our couch.

California part two

2011-10-03T12:14:00.015-06:00

Owen loves airplanes. Every time he sees one, he screams and gets really excited. People were SUPER excited to hear him all morning. This is us at the airport by the way.

I had to make a trip back to Northwood, where I went to high school. Turns out my little brick is still there and doing well. We'll be having our ten year reunion next year. Ha!

Here is the million dollar oak tree that I watched get toilet papered for our senior prank and then was suspended for a week and almost didn't get to graduate. Cheers!

Owen is plotting his attack on the seagulls.

He can't figure out why they fly away when he runs over and screams at them.

He isn't a fan of being held, plus the baby leaves him with just a hip to rest on.

"Free at last."

Has to give everyone "knucks."

The park where my mom and dad live. We'll be setting up shop here if things don't work out in Daybreak.

Making sure to keep up with his clients.

"I hate horses, ponies and anything else you try to set me on. I will throw a fit every time, try me!"

On the 24th, we had a surprise 30th birthday for Reuben and his friend Mark. Reuben had no idea until five minutes before the party. He decided to look outside and check on the sprinklers. AHHHHH! He saw all these people walking into our neighbors house and quickly realized that my awesome plan was a lie. Dang it! We played laser tag in this big park. The "instructor" must have been pulled from the military because he was trying to teach us all these killing tactics and how to properly fire your weapon. I did awesome not being able to run, roll, or hide behind trees. Dang baby:)

Here is Mark and Reuben blowing out their 30 candles. It's more proof that it happened rather than a good picture. Reuben turns 30 on the 30th of October, if you didn't know.

California part one

2011-09-19T19:27:00.034-06:00

Lucky us, we got to come down to CA for the week to visit with the fam. We had baby showers, played a lot and took Owen to the beach for the first time. I know, I know, I'm a horrible mother for not getting him there sooner. These pictures are all out of order, but here we go...

Just got Owen back in the habit of smiling for the camera.

"Now Brek, don't sass me or you'll be in trouble."

Owen with the my parentals.

"Oh hello beautiful!"

Still cute, even with one arm.

Trying to figure out how to talk to the seagulls.

Too bad the water was a little chilly.

"Yep, that's how you wear them Owen."

Decided that clothes were optional.

Cleaning up his blueberries that he so gracefully threw EVERYWHERE.

"Come here Brekky, I have a secret for you!"

"I'm going to spit this in your face, because I'm a nice boy."

smile.

"Oh my gosh, don't even give me carbs..I only want fruit."

After 3 different dinners, he decided he would only eat blueberries.

smile.

And we look drunk. But we're not.

Me, Owen and our newest addition to Utah... Dr. Shores.

This is the ONLY presentable picture of me opening gifts. All the other ones I pulled a double/tripple chin on.

Kate, Brooke, Jenna, me and Owen. We're all pregnant.

King Louie and Krystle.

The set up for the shower.

Owen sporting his BYU jersey which didn't help them at all. After seeing the score, Owen dumped the fountain on him.

Owen getting to know the sand.

Another trip to the water.

Just a little attitude for you.

"Ummmm get that off of me."

Being ignored

2011-09-10T09:59:00.005-06:00

This week Owen has been a little neglected. Reuben has had to work a bunch and I have been leveling ground and laying sod. So while I was at the gym and Reuben was getting ready for work, we found this going on. It starts out well....

Then Owen decided to read the end to the beginning.

Then balance The Book of Mormon on one foot. Hope he got a lot out of his scripture study!

Fail!

2011-09-03T09:42:00.019-06:00

Wow it's really been a LONG time since I last updated these pictures. We are busily digging trenches, moving top soil from one side of our yard to the other, figuring out more sprinkler issues, buying sod, picking out trees, choosing plants, and figuring out how to hook up the drip line. Needless to say, on good nights we are out in the front until midnight, not leaving much time to update this beautiful blog. Good news, we should be done in two weeks! Now after the excuses, here are some pictures of what we've been doing...

First, we should probably tell the blog world that we are having a GIRL!!! She should be here on the 8th or maybe the 12th. They always give me two dates and neither one of them turn out to be the right one:)

We are almost certain that we have a name for this baby bug!

We also went boating at Deer Creek with Reuben's work. I was a great observer while Reuben did all sorts of tricks on the wake board.

Owen and I have been on countless walks just trying to get an idea of what we want to plant in our yard. I feel fine about going into people's yards and taking pictures.

Just a few more possibilities.

Trying to figure out which zone the plants are and how much sun each shrub should get has been quite a treat.

Then we were onto painting. After spraying almost the whole house, the painters stopped and wanted to make sure I wanted this color. Cookie monster blue was such a joy for those few days. However, the not so funny part is that we had to pay for paint and labor again. Goodbye shopping trips!

This is what we had originally picked out. Our door was going to be red until that came out pink. By that point I was over it and went with yellow.

Heather and Zach came and poor H was put to work. Probably more than she wanted to. We painted a back splash for the kitchen. All was going well until I spilled paint all over the oven. Next week I'll include pictures of all the new things inside and out of our house.

Here are H and Z, with O.

Down the street there is a house that they painted to look like the movie "Up." Maybe we should have gone with these colors.

Again:)

We love fall because all the farmer's markets open. There is much fruit to be eaten.

Here is Owen trying on his snow boots, just in case it happens to snow this year. Maybe not?

When my mom came, we took Owen to the Hogle Zoo. We were expecting greatness but all their animals were gone. Perhaps we saw 9 animals total.

Owen and Grandma Lou watching the monkeys.

The best part might have been the train ride at the end.

Owen heard wolf.

Next week hopefully we'll have more pictures of our home that will be DONE-ish and I shall include one photo of my round middle section.

Since you've been gone

2011-07-08T09:08:00.033-06:00

About two months ago, my computer decided it wouldn't turn back on and thus not allowing any opportunity to update my blog. The other option was to do it on Reuben's PC, but that was out of the question. Gladly- we have a BEAUTIFUL new baby MAC that hopefully will keep blogging alive:) Here are some of the things we've been up to since May, wow that was a while ago.

We begin at Red Butte Gardens in Salt Lake. It was beautiful.

Texting and walking only lands you in bushes.

Next: The Scottish Festival at Thanksgiving Point.

Everyone was in kilts, even the dogs.

King Owen

Next on the list included a trip to Ogden, to see Grandma Gin

We all love this house, especially in the summer!

Grandma Lou came to visit!

Oh and so did Uncle Zach!

Owen touched a MAC, he's sooooo happy:)

Then we found ourselves at Thanksgiving Point again to see the animals.

Probably one of the scariest beasts there.

"Hey dad, watch this! I can stick my whole fist up his nostril and he won't even move!"

Mr. Ed

He loved the huge horses but when it came to ponies, that was not acceptable.

Owen and Grandpa Cook's head.

Owen's first trip to prison. We are so proud!

Then Owen and Maia found the water. She would dump it on him and he would stand there. This is a great way to force your child to like water. Almost ready for swim team!!

Soaked!

"So I'm cute and wet, oh and I want some ice cream, thanks!"

Model pose

Then it was the 4th of July!!! My second favorite holiday. I had the flu which was a treat but after three barfs that day, Stadium of Fire was still on my to do list.

Oh and Brek came!!

Troops marching in the flags. It was quite patriotic. I depend on this now every fourth of July.

David Archuleta sang the "Star Spangled Banner." He has a great voice, just a little shy.

Reubs and me. Keep in mind, I have the flu so dismiss my face.

Brad Paisley also performed. I liked country music before but living in the south for a while made me appreciate it even more. While some of country music is twangy, it's just some good people singing about the simple things in life. I loved it.

Half of the cousins were there with us. This is Georgia, Sheila's daughter.

Rebekah and Bella. Notice that she is seriously posing for the picture, so cute!

More proof that we were there.

Then the fire started and you knew the craziest fire works were about to start.

And they did. It was great! I love the 4th and the USA.

PS: Next week we'll be painting our house Navy blue and white with a RED DOOR! Wahooo! Oh and we find out next Friday if this little babe is a girl or a boy!

Two years!

2011-05-16T14:49:00.008-06:00

No Owen is just one but we've been married 2 YEARS now!! Crazy. I wasn't that stressed on the wedding day, sooo I remember almost everything. I do however remember that I didn't really like our photographer and now I can see why, with very few pictures to choose from. Tonight we are going to Texas Road House and then a movie. I'm kind of bummed that I feel so sick today, but being pregnant- you give up a few holidays or special days just wanting to barf. Cheers!

The Mettra kidlets

Coming out of the temples. Somehow Reuben still has keys, a phone, a wallet, and gum in his pockets.

Just sayin, "hi."

I want to hug the beach right now.

Us in Cancun looking like lamanites, too bad we don't sport these shades in Utah too often.

Cancun, let's go back!!!!!! Two years has gone by so fast. We are keeping busy and enjoying life. We have learned a lot about each other (probably really fast, seeing the fact that I was pregnant just a month after we got married) and have grown a lot. We are excited for what the future together brings. Love you babe!

Lots to report

2011-05-02T12:56:00.012-06:00

We'll start with the Thanksgiving Point half marathon.

Michele, Keri, me and Mary before the race. It was a good 30 degrees when we started and MAYBE 32 when we finished. At mile 3 of 13, I thought I would barf. I held it in until mile 7. Nonetheless I ran sooo slow as to not barf the whole way. My pelvis started locking up around mile 5 and from there on- my strides were whimpy. Oh well, I finished two months PREGNANT. Note to self.. Zofran wont work if you are going to be dumb enough to run a half marathon. I'm sad I wont be able to really run until next year. Spring, summer and fall are magical times to run in Utah. I guess I'll have to look forward to next year.

"Yay mommy for not taking forever!"

Owen with his face frozen.

I finished and YES that lady beat me in the shoot. I couldn't even sprint, grrrr!

Due to the fact that I was pretty slow, we ended up telling everyone that we are going to have another baby this December. The early announcement was my doing. We are quite surprised and excited. After this nausea goes away (week 22), then I'll be REALLY excited. This is what the little babe could look like.

Onto news we got on Sunday night.

This is for Sister Mettra who doesn't get to watch the news.

Pictures like this are deeply etched in most of our brains. Unless you are Reuben and just saw a few here and there while on a mission in Brazil. On May 2, Osama Bin Laden was killed.

This one is one of my favorites. Many people ran to the streets of DC and New York to celebrate the end to a 10 year search for a man that killed thousands.

Last item of business is a video of O.

Easter

2011-04-25T09:41:00.022-06:00

Easter weekend was SUPER fun this year. We had my cousin, Jeremy's wedding and all the family was there and then of course Easter. We'll start with Owen's preparations for the big day.

Getting use to the ball. Which is a must if he is going to be a kicker for BYU.

Then onto the wedding. Most of these pictures are for those not in attendance; J,B,Z and H.

Grandma Gin and my mutha

"Done and done!"

Hugs for Hunter

More of them.

There were more but I can't get them off FB. LAME!

Now onto Easter morning. Owen is a little out of his mind because he woke up at 5am.

"Baby food, thanks!"

"Bubbles! My favorite... thing to eat!"

Yogurt bites

"They make my mouth water."

"I like to share."

"People just pick me up and squeeze me all the time, RUDE!"

mom and O

Now it's off to Grandma's to see Julie and Jenny.

Julie and Evynn

Easter egg hunt in the orchard

"I'm thinking if I stare at it long enough it will open."

"Ahhh my egg!"

"I got an egg, I got an egg, I got an egg, hey hey hey HEY!"

"They make noise too. All my hopes and dreams!"

He thought he would give his egg to Grandma and then he took it back.

"I love dogs!"

"Just playin with the toys that my mom use to play with when she was a babe."

Next week will be a doozy. I have trained for two marathons and didn't run those. I have been training for a half marathon and HOPEFULLY I can run it on Saturday. There is just one thing that makes this race complicated which will be discussed later on:)

"Big boy"

2011-04-07T07:07:00.018-06:00

It's been 1 year since I looked like this. Here is Owen's year in review. Watch him grow!

Born at 8:09 weighing in at 6.11 LBS and 21 inches

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

January

February

March

April.

Owen we love you so much. You are always smiling, determined, and love to figure out new things. You make everyone around you happy. Happy birthday little bug!

Conference weekend

2011-04-04T09:23:00.004-06:00

We always love conference weekend! After my long run I just felt like laying around for 2 days, so it was PERFECT! My friend Shelli and Uncle Ryan came over to watch and eat with us. Owen was sure to entertain to the best of his ability.

Every time the Tabernacle Choir sang he started leading. He does it at church too. Sister Mettra... he's ready to sing along with you again.

He also became quite attached to this little pillow and started to lay himself down. THIS NEVER HAPPENS.

We loved all the great talks and have a renewed motivation to do better.

Owen just woke up and is a little stone face right now.

Trying to show Reuben his 6 teeth!

His new attachment.

Bringing his pillow everywhere he goes.

Owen with his homeless shopping cart and pillow so he can set up shop at whatever corner he stops at.

Happy boy.

He has places to go.

"What, I look homeless? I feel good about that."

smile!

"I'm trying to show off my teeth."

"Stop! Nap time!"

"Now I want to eat the camera."

The closing ceremonies

2011-03-20T19:29:00.043-06:00

While in Irvine we got Owen's pictures taken, ate lots of good food, celebrated his birthday and went to Disneyland! There are also random pictures of other things we've been up to.

First off: Owen documented. My friend, Mike Smith took them. He lives in CA but he is always in Utah for business so if you want his number, I have it.

Now for Owen's 5th haircut. This time we got it done right so that it doesn't look like Edward Scissor hands did it.

Happy? Scared? Or just sad to lose some of his hair?

Next stop, Owen rides his first pony at Thanksgiving point. He is giving me the "look of death."

He didn't enjoy the thought of me leaving him on a pony and I didn't enjoy getting pony poop in my sandals- we got off early.

Now for Reuben's first trip to Disneyland.

We started things off with a quick trip back to the 80's with "Captain EO."

Then we went on the submarine ride which is now, "Finding Nemo."

Proof that we were both there.

After seeing that Star Tours was closed and picking up our Space Mountain fast pass, we headed to Fantasy Land, which didn't do much for Reuben because, he can count on one hand how many Disney movies he has seen.

We waited to go on Peter Pan which was my FAVORITE ride when I was little. This time it was shorter and things looked fake. I'm speechless, how did that happen?

Sheila's family came with us. Here is Noah letting us know that we have reached our photo limit.

Emma who knew the most popular rides and was indeed the Disney expert. Georgia was the photographer so there aren't any of her:(

Maia who's only requirement was, "Hold my hand," when going on the rides with her.

Indiana Jones, probably Reuben's favorite.

Tea cups, of course! The boys wussed out so just the girls did this one.

Did Space Mountain with the fast pass. Then headed to California Adventure after the fire works.

We were here for a short time, just to see "World of color" and go on one ride.

We LOVED the California sun.

Our last ride was "California Scream'n." It was super fun and most likely Reuben's favorite.

Walking to Hollywood blvd.

Reuben passed out.

It was A LOT of fun, until next year!

Home again, home again, jiggity jig!

2011-03-14T09:29:00.024-06:00

After being very lucky and not having our plane canceled like so many others before us, we arrived in "The Motherland," or Irvine as some call it.

We went to a restaurant called "True Foods," all yummy organic foods. Owen wasn't use to so much sun, so he had to protect his eyes. The lady next to us told us all about her life and how much her botox costs, LOVE.

"Dig in."

Owen throwing things off the table.

Just seeing if he likes lemons. We are mean.

After mixing for hours Owen was done helping with his birthday cake. (It was a yogurt cake)

Happy birthday to you! Owen will actually be one in April but we start early here.

At first he was feeding himself and all was well.

He couldn't figure out why everyone was laughing at him, rude!

Then he embraced it.

A little in the mouth and a lot on the highchair.

Stopping to pose.

The aftermath.

After his episode with the yogurt cake, he took another bath and then put on his "big boy" robe.

"Good parents don't make the birthday boy go to bed."

The next post will some sweet pics of the babe, bachelor party, and lunch with Kelly.

Here is a sneak peak.

Being one with nature.

This picture is for when he runs for president.

We made it through FEB!!!

2011-02-28T08:43:00.016-07:00

We are making our way to spring and couldn't be more excited. Last week I had the privilege to go to Salt Lake to tour the tabernacle. The tabernacle was built back in 1864, it's 150 feet across and 250 feet long. The amazing organ has 11,623 pipes which makes that one of the largest organs in the world.

I learned a lot about the Tabernacle Choir and the organ. Like the Tabernacle Choir, none of the orchestra members are paid and all proceeds from their cd's are how they pay for everything they do.

I might have seen Sister Mettra and her cute companion from Pakistan.

Winter on the Daybreak lake.

Here is Owen on our walk, his eyeballs are frozen open.

Owen trying to grab the camera, again.

These are old pictures from my phone. Instead of hitting the ball he now can kick it quite well.

Just posing after church.

Super blurry but he is a funny bug.

Just the face we get when we go see Owen after his LONG 20 minute naps.

Again Owen is posing. He's in his surf warm up suit incase you can't see that.

Look at those cheeks.

This is my little dog. He chews on my headbands ALL THE TIME.

Another trip in the car.

Owen at the doctor's just getting some shots. Believe it or not, he looks like this about 10 seconds after his shots.

"I love Sister Mettra!"

Next week there hopefully should be some pictures of the other people that live in this house.

"Walk like a man"

2011-02-07T11:30:00.016-07:00

This has been a fun week. Owen continues to destroy the house and wake us up before the sun comes up (5am). He has decided that he would like to try walking out. Here is a little proof of what we claim is happening.

First stop of the day, pull out all the wippies.

Almost done.

"Umm it wasn't me."

"If I say bad words later in life, know that I like the taste of soap, so you probably wont be able to punish me that way."

"Cleaning my gums."

"Ha wake up at 7am, HA!"

Trouble

2011-01-31T12:03:00.007-07:00

After our water incident, Owen has also figured out that a good activity when I'm folding his clothes is to unroll all the toilet paper.

Baby at work.

After this picture I cut his hair so he doesn't look like a troll.

Trying to leave the crime scene.

Without shame and a smile on his face. Now he is off to the fan where he likes to shake it until it falls over. Cheers!

Yesterday we realized that Owen likes to walk if you pull him around on a leash or in this case a wippie.

Sorry the videos are so choppy. I'll try to fix them.

Water

2011-01-23T20:35:00.028-07:00

Well it's been a while. Recently Owen has been growing, in his cheeks, learning how to put himself to sleep (which after three weeks, he refuses to sleep), and discovering how GREAT water is.

Owen is responding to the word, "smile!"

"Oh Dad, let's not talk naps right now."

"You want me to take a nap? How about you!"

"Kidding, but really I'll go to bed later thank you."

This week I put Owen in the bathtub while I took a shower. This way he couldn't eat our shoes in the closet or stick his fingers in the electric sockets. Not the brightest idea.

Just getting started.

"Oh you can turn around, there is nothing to see here."

"This thing must be good for something."

"Oh that's right, simply pull this and it's magic from there."

"1,2,3!"

"Oooooooooo water."

"Ha! All in a days work!"

This is Owen after sleeping the whole night. He looks 20 lbs bigger.

After discovering water in the bathtub, we decided to head down to the beach as to even things out with those people who are frequenting the beach as they please in southern CA.

Totally the same.

Owen votes this was a horrible idea.

Reubs getting a tan.

Not a wave in sight, glassy water to say the least:)

Owen's attitude about napping.

"Not gunna do it."

Owen felt bad for never sleeping, so he did the dishes.

"Oh hi, just adding the soap."

"Almost done, you just wave your hand and then BAM, all done!"

Good day.

Christmas

2011-01-04T11:02:00.024-07:00

We had a great Christmas this year. Reuben's parents came and then the rest of my family came up for new years. We even got snow accompanied with weather that would freeze your eyeballs out.

Grandpa and O getting their workout on while shoveling snow.

Too many carrots made for an explosion and trip to the sink. He doesn't care though.

Yay Owen!

fall-la-la-la-la la-la-la-LA!

"I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it."

Santa likes doing the laundry, which got me put on the naughty list because I hate it!

Merry Christmas!

Santa on Christmas morning.

Opening his......BINKIES!

He really only cared for the wrapping paper. I wonder how long we can keep that going.

GHETTO stockings this year. I waited until the last minute to buy them and then they didn't have the style I wanted. so we went with uggs.

One of the dummer ideas I had. I made these bouquets for all our friends up here. They just didn't look as cool as I had imagined them.

May or may not have seen Sister Mettra sing "Ave Maria" in German on temple square.

Us and Grandma Gin, my Grandma.

Little Shepard boy.

He saw the star!!!!!

Loves being a Shepard.

Learning to like the camera.

Looking rather jolly... fake smile.

We saw Santa and Mrs. Clause also. I think they came on Harlies.

Little Shepard boy is a little ticked that he is going to bed after all this dress up action.

Hope everyone had a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Lately

2010-12-17T12:25:00.001-07:00

Owen continues to take 7 minute naps sooo this post is just pictures because I need to make sure he doesn't knock down the tree:)

Santa Clause is coming to town

2010-12-07T09:11:00.008-07:00

This is a random post, mostly for Jenna to see what is going on with the family. Here is Owen and my good friend Kelly's little boy Ben. It's great to see that Owen looks like Buddy the Elf of his lap.

Here are Brek and Zach who look like twins, which leave Jenna and me in the adoption pool.

Here is the back side of Heather's gingerbread house this year. She may or may not get her own gingerbread house every year so the rest of us don't mess it up.

Putting us all the shame.

First time in his Santa suit. He hasn't discovered how to ge the hat off, so I think we are good so far.

We can thank his dad for the cheeks on this kid.
Merry Christmas- more to come next week.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T10:44:00.018-07:00

I lost my camera (I'll probably find it after I post these pictures) so here are just some that Brek took. On Thursday we flew down to CA on Jet blue with not an OUNCE OF TURBULENCE. I wanted to hug the pilot but he wasn't around. This is a quick review of what we did.

Grandma Lou and Mr. Cheeks.

Sweet potatoes.

Loves his carrots.

Design by Heather.

Everyone loved his cheeks.

Oh and he figured out that crawling is cool. He will crawl really fast to the computer if left on the floor and the pump so he can pull out all the tubes.

Little O bug.

Owen and Grandpa.

Thanksgiving feast in it's early stages.

Owen had his own place.

He like Uncle Z.

The house was ready for Christmas upon my request.

Brek and Owen.

Tis the season.

Lately

2010-10-31T22:07:00.000-06:00

Owen continues to take 7 minute naps sooo this post is just pictures because I need to make sure he doesn't knock down the tree:)

Halloween and more... ¡POR FIN!

2010-10-31T20:22:00.028-06:00

My computer came back to life and now it's time to unload my camera. Okay this is what has been happening since early October. Caution, there are way too many videos and pictures on here for one sitting. So if you're not a new mom that is up at all hours of the night, family or a really big fan of Owen... be prepared for a ton of pictures.

PICTURES:

Owen is not quite yet ready for swim team. Next year!

Playing tackle on the bed.

I was asked to "make" something for the Halloween party. So I made a design.

Our costumes are sponsored by our friends. I'm an 80's girl and Reuben is a pizza delivery boy.

Napoleon, of course, was at the party and danced a quick jig.

Owen is now rolling everywhere and is ready to crawl.

Looking back at Grandpa making weird noises.

Yikes, what an odd bunch of people.

For the girls.

Happy as a lark. ( I don't even know what that is.)

Listening to the game play from Grandpa.

Owen telling Grandpa that the Giants are going to win The World Series and to quit getting stressed out.

Oh Goofy.

Ready to play.

Hey guys.

Owen has two new teeth, which makes it harder to pull this beaver face.

Clapping makes him happy all the time and probably boosts his ego.

Thinking about the beach that he's never seen.

And he's bored.

All good bears know how to fold their arms.

And he's spent.

VIDEOS:

How the Dinosaurs disappeared

Best work out ever

When babies attack

Tackle

Gigglefest

The happenings

2010-10-27T03:38:00.002-06:00

My baby MAC died, so I can't get pictures or videos off it and I'm currently boycotting the PC. As soon as I fix my computer I will update the blog. Look for one on Sunday, FOR SURE!

Conference and football

2010-10-05T10:42:00.014-06:00

This past weekend Zach and Heather came up for Zach's mission reunion and General Conference. For those of you who don't know what General Conference is, it's when the prophet and 12 apostles speak to us and it happens every October and April.

Here is Owen getting his pre-conference rub down.

Owen

How the dinosaurs disappeared.

We also understand that BYU is having sort of an "off" year and thought we better get Owen started on his technique. Here is Owen in action. (Despite all of his training, Owen will probably grow up and just want to be a swimmer, ha!)

Oh and Owen has been teething and sick so he's called in a few sick days and has escaped any hairspray on his hair.

Conference went well and so did Owen's training.

Trip to CA

2010-10-02T07:17:00.011-06:00

This past week, Owen and I went to the motherland or Irvine. My friend, Molly was having a baby shower so I thought we should probably go. Owen got spoiled, experienced the hottest day on record, started teething, and hung out with Grandma and Brek. Oh and I FINALLY got the go ahead to run, it's been magical ever since. Here is Owen's side of the story.

Praying upon arrival, hurry up, he's serious.

Stopping to pose like his Aunt Jenna.

Hold me, hold me, hold me!!!!

Liv'n the dream.

More holding.

Showing off his hard earned double chin.

Captured by Brek... it isn't so bad.

After a hard days work of forced tummy time.

Not sure how he's going to get out of his next nap, but he's going to make it happen.

"Please people, I came to see the beach and still, NOTHING!"

O bear

2010-09-21T10:26:00.010-06:00

This weekend Owen and I are taking a trip, so there will be more of a variety of photos. For now this is what we could get in between FREQUENT diaper changes, playing peek-a-boo, reading books, tummy time, and having conversations.

Owen surfing the internet on his baby MAC

Practicing for his school pictures.

Getting super smiley before bed so we don't put him down.

In proper flying position.

Posing in front of his new blue walls.

Another one.

Playing before bed.

I'm spent! Buenas noches:)

The day of labor

2010-09-07T03:21:00.017-06:00

This is how our story went, with comments by Owen Cook.

Reuben brought home a new little grill, a cheap one to say the least from Walmart. Reuben tried heating up the coals with lots of lighter fluid, but they wouldn't keep warm.

Here is Bryce holding the meat while Reuben lit the coals again.

" I love fire."

This would be the second time Reuben tried working with the coals. Then Bryce put the meat back on, singeing off most of the hairs on his arms.

"Oh sick!"

After the hair loss Bryce tried poking around to figure out why things were cold and why my chicken was green.

"Meat marinated in lighter fluid, don't do it! Fools all of you!"

Reuben with his leather shoe aka hamburger.

"Have you people no sense!"

Just as we were taking things inside, Reuben ran into the screen with all of the meat and after smearing all over the screen, it landed on the ground. Five second rule?

My chicken, that looks like something out of the cadaver lab.

After a "please help us not die" prayer- we tasted at our own risk.

"I really can't believe these people. Two of them are my parents, I'm not safe!"

No, they didn't wet themselves. They went sailing previous to the whole near death experience. After ingesting a few cups of lighter fluid, we made a quick trip to In & Out to wash down our highly toxic first meal.

"Much better choice."

Chillin with the babe

2010-09-05T21:06:00.010-06:00

Okay one more blog of just Owen. The next one should feature Reuben and I who still do exist and Owen's newly painted room. Lucky us, Heather is going to come do a beach mural in his room. I might not ever leave the room. Since fall is coming we're going to start to design our home so we don't go nuts with all the white walls. You can look forward to pictures of our house soon.

Owen holds his own bottle now but has found his thumb, which works too.

Still growing more chins.

Here is his half smile, he's tired. Sunday's mess up his naps schedule.

When he sits next to me he likes to wrap his arm around mine.

Poor child. If his cheeks weren't so chubby, maybe this wouldn't happen. I blame him.

Getting ready to barf, again.

Done and done!

2010-08-25T21:14:00.012-06:00

Well guys I took my last final today, which makes my life at BYU officially OVER. These pictures are to sell my sister Brek on BYU, allow you BYU grads to reminisce, and to make any U of U supporters annoyed. I now have my BS in exercise science and plan on doing NOTHING with that:) I'll go to nursing school when Owen gets a little older.

Should have spent more time here. (Library)

And then....

2010-08-23T00:50:00.008-06:00

My mom came up this weekend and we have been on the go ever since. This is her and Grandma Gin.

Owen climbing Grandma's tree.

After refusing to go to bed and "damaging" his outfit, here he sits like a cute little bug.

On the way home from Grandma's, there was a little this...

and that! Thanks mom for coming, we had fun!

Growing up

2010-08-19T15:33:00.007-06:00

A man of many chins

Always smiling.

Except for when he refuses to nap.

4 month mug shots

2010-08-08T19:00:00.011-06:00

Hi my name is Owen Reuben Cook. I was born on April 7th, so that makes me 4 months now. I weigh about 13 lbs, almost 25 inches, and have 3 chins.

I like talking and laughing.

I enjoy the occasional dance but not too rough because my head is still hard for me to hold up.

I like to smile because smiling is my favorite.

I love my mom and dad.

They love me too!

I like my love sack.

To all my fans out there, good day to you!

Owen speaks and other randoms

2010-08-01T23:33:00.006-06:00

Our daily conversation with Owen bear. Please observe the double chin

Okay he really does a lot better than this, but I didn't get it on video.

Sunday afternoon. It's pretty awesome.

"Sunday Reuben." Between now and eternity, I hope I can help him with his wardrobe.

Dad's new bike. Rather "our" new bike, it's a community thing.

Little bear doing what he does best.

Quick Update

2010-07-21T18:03:00.009-06:00

Between teaching swim lessons and trying to finish this online class, there haven't been many pictures or much activity around here. Here are some of Owen right before he barfed all over me AGAIN.

If he could talk he might say, "Mom you're a dork, you know if you squeeze my stomach I'm going to barf."

"Why don't you respond how I want you to when I talk, it's like you don't know what I'm saying."

" Wow, why do you use that voice? I kind of just drown you out when you do that."

" Would you turn on the air, quit trying to prove a point."

Last weekend we had our first Daybreak invitational. Reuben put it together

www.daybreakinvitational.com

We had some of our friends come over and we played some of the games from "Minute to Win it." It was SUPER FUN!

Mark and Julie won...

The wrestling belt. Special!

Another Mettra in

2010-07-11T20:57:00.027-06:00

This week we dropped Jenna off at the MTC (single tear) and Brek stayed and played. Here are some highlights of the week.

Owen is all ready to go drop of Jenna bear

The black bears in the family. We're only missing Heather.

The aunts and the babe.

The sisters. One day Brek will become Sister Mettra too:)

Sucker!

He'll remember her face

Pioneer baby.

Good bye my love!

Then it was off to the symphony at Thanksgiving point

Brek kept him company.

Reuben, me, Owen, and Becca at the symphony.

Owen slept through most of it.

Then we went kayaking around our lake.

Pretty!

Sunday we went through American Fork Canyon. It was awesome!

Reuben and I finally got a picture together:)

Me and B-rek

Owen just talking to some friends in Heaven.

Some sweet aspen trees

Shoot, this kid is cute. Love him!

The road we took

We hiked and took lots of pictures

The land of the free

2010-07-07T00:36:00.009-06:00

This fourth of July, like last year, we went to Stadium of Fire in Provo. This year Carrie Underwood performed and it was a great show. The weather was good and I wasn't sick this time! Owen hung out with Grandma and Grandpa Cook and slept through most of it.

Owen and I with our America colors on

50,000 people came to watch

These jets fly over before the show starts, tradition

They presented the troops and the colors

This little boy was especially cute, he was taught well

Carrie Underwood put on a great show

Then a WONDERFUL fireworks show followed. I'm glad to be an American, I love our country!

The Motherland

2010-07-02T13:29:00.012-06:00

Last week I went home to Irvine for a few good reasons......

1. Brek Graduated

2. Jenna went through the temple and had her mission farewell

3. We had a graduation, farewell, baby shower party for the girls

4. One last visit to 9 Laurelwood, the Mettra's home of 10 years R.I.P.

Here are some highlights

Father's day

2010-06-20T22:20:00.012-06:00

Today was Reuben's first father's day and my dad's twenty sixth. Reuben is such a good dad in so many ways. He works really hard to provide for our family and yet makes lots of time for Owen and me. Owen loves his dad and how gentle he is with him. Thanks Reuben for looking out for us and being so loving and selfless.

Now for my pops. Thanks dad for being a solid example of what it means to be a devoted member of the church. You've always been searching out opportunities to share the gospel, it's no wonder most of us have gone on missions. Thanks for being such a great dad, I love you.

Being dedicated

2010-06-11T16:19:00.012-06:00

Sooo this week I haven't gone to the pool to get my "vitamin D," I've been trying to finish this English class that has taken much too much time to finish. The plan is: JUNE- finish English, JULY-finish the CNA, and then SEPTEMBER- take the translating course so I can translate in the hospital. This all means that Owen and I have had many photo shoots. They're all random, so enjoy. Next post should include pictures of Reuben and I, we still exist.

Ummm he's cute

Bath time! I leave him in the tub for a while so as to prepare him for his future in swimming and beach adventures.

Owen sleeps with his arms down at his side. Funny baby.

After a good workout he likes to show off his muscles.

If you feed him RIGHT before you leave, he's a great traveler.

Play time. He loves to hit these with his long arms.

His mug shot.

He's trying to hit the camera.

I think he has only gained weight in his cheeks.

Captured!

Owen's baby blessing

2010-06-01T15:31:00.013-06:00

This weekend we blessed Owen in church. Owen was super good and even smiled a little before Reuben started the blessing. My whole family was there as well as Bruce, Karen, Jeremy and Hunter Williams (my mom's sister and fam)

Owen looked super cute in his little umpa- lumpa outfit

He just hung out all day and was a SUPER good baby.

Reuben's sister, Rebekah and her family also came!

Here is a 4 generation picture

Our little bear

Grandma Gin, me, Owen, and B-rek.

Brek and the babe

Zach and the babe

Heather and the babe

Owen goes to church

2010-05-23T15:51:00.010-06:00

Today was Owen's first day at church. People really liked his onsie with his tie that Cami made for him. He was a REALLY good baby! He slept the whole time and woke up just once to poop all over. Hopefully he'll be this good next week when we bless him.

We start with his Sunday shoes

Then the shirt....

Then the pants that are too big for him....

Then the hair which YES I did put hair spray in.

Other Sunday activities

Next time maybe we'll have you all listen to what Owen sounds like when he sleeps or just breathes. He sounds like a goose.

Here Reuben decided that Owen should try on his wrestling belt that we use when people win games at our house :)