Coburn Chronicles

Girls' Weekend

2012-02-01T19:48:00.002-07:00

I am so glad that my doctor approved a (final) trip out-of-state to the Bay Area. I am now 24 weeks along and January has been a very hectic month, so this trip was exactly what I needed. The Bay Area is my home away from home...not only is it green and beautiful with mild temperatures, some of my closest buds live there. :-) It was a low-key weekend and I really enjoyed my time there from hanging out with Jena and her 3 kiddos in Mountain View, to exploring Menlo Park and all of its cute cafe's with Lindsay, and then getting a glimpse of Stefanie's life in Oakland. Plus, nothing beats a drive at dusk along the Bay Bridge with views of downtown San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Big Mama!

2012-01-19T20:23:00.005-07:00

Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers with our twins news! The twins are more active than ever in my belly and Adam and I are starting to plan out our new "to do list" that comes with any set of twins. Overall, we are beyond excited, but no doubt there are times we are overwhelmed with the big changes coming to our little family and the reality that a pregnancy/labor/delivery with multiples has a greater risk of complications at severe levels. What we do know brings us great comfort: that the twins are under God's protection and we are confident in our OB-GYN and the hospital that we're delivering at. Plus, we have received great advice from family and friends with twins.

Top 5 twins questions that we have gotten:
1. Do twins run in Ilalia's family? Nope.
2. Do twins run in Adam's family? Yes, actually on both sides of his family, but it's carried through the maternal side.
3. Are your boy-girl twins identical? Ah, nope on that one... different plumbing!
4. Were you planning on having twins? Not exactly...but we couldn't be more thrilled to add double the fun.

5. Are you bigger this pregnancy than last? YES, much bigger. See photos below.

22 weeks with Tyson

22 weeks with the twins

Seeing Pink AND Blue!

2012-01-10T20:50:00.004-07:00

We have some very exciting news to share! On December 27, I had my first ultrasound and learned... we are expecting TWINS! At 19 weeks pregnant, we got our first glimpse of the newest members of our family. It has been a difficult pregnancy for me compared to Tyson's, so the news that I am carrying twins explains a lot. Right away the ultrasound tech determined that twin "A" is a girl and several minutes later (which felt like an eternity) we learned that twin "B" is a boy. Both babies appear healthy thus far and my May 19th due date has not changed although its very likely I'll deliver earlier than that.

We had the great joy of telling both of our parents over dinner, along with Kevin and Lindsay (our other siblings were out of town for the holidays). We had everyone jot down their guess of the baby's gender. We went down the line and every single person guessed that the baby was a girl until the final person, Adam's dad, who guessed we were having twins and went so far as to draw a picture of a girl and a boy! We were laughing that John not only guessed the news correctly but he stole Adam's punchline that everyone was "half right". You can see John's artistic abilities below.

Tyson seems to be doing well with the news, but we're still not sure if he understands fully that he's going to be a brother to two babies, not just one. Adam and I are waiting in anticipation for the twins' arrival and we greatly appreciate your prayers for a healthy remainder of the pregnancy.

November Highlights

2011-11-30T20:37:00.006-07:00

I'm always amazed that the moment Thanksgiving is over the Christmas season is in full swing! Below are some November photos that I am finally posting. We have so much to be thankful for!

We got to be Superhero's at the Vanderwall birthday party!

Free Sprinkles cupcakes on the day ASU played U of A = yum!

Tyson and McKenna hanging out before bedtime

A busy Thanksgiving holiday playing outside Tyson's first flag football match = "Ready! Break!"

Tricycle

2011-11-13T20:02:00.002-07:00

Tyson loves riding his tricycle... in the driveway, in the backyard, in the rocks, in the patio... anywhere!

Trick-or-Treat

2011-11-02T19:35:00.010-07:00

Tyson picked out his Tommy the Train (as he calls it) costume this year. This year, he lasted a full hour trick-or-treating with neighborhood pals and Grandma & Grandpa Coburn. He returned home giddy and protective over his new candy treasures.

Ready to hit the neighborhood!

Loved sharing a wagon with Samantha

Notice who's not shy with the candy bowl

Success!

Fall, where are you?

2011-10-23T20:38:00.003-07:00

I tend to get grumpy this time of year because I am beyond ready for cooler temperatures! Fall is my favorite time of year, so we try to make the best of it even though there is no Fall in the Phoenix area. Below are some recent photos of us searching for Fall. :-)

Petting Zoo Day at Tyson's school

Airplane ride at Schnepf Farms

Cousins: both are growing up so fast!

Gotcha with a smile! Tyson wasn't interested in taking any photos all day, but I got this one.

The Two-Year-Old-Personality

2011-10-18T19:10:00.008-07:00

Adam and I have entered a new phase in parenting... age TWO and all that comes with it! There has been many joys, but lately our sweet little boy has shown us his more independent and stubborn side. I am enjoying capturing the moments along the way...

Sunday afternoon lunch with Grandma and Grandpa Tober = not in a "say cheese" mood

Sunday evening with good friend Travis = great mood! Great having you here Travis, come back and visit soon with the fam!

San Diego

2011-10-15T10:41:00.012-07:00

Last weekend, we travelled to beautiful San Diego to take Tyson to the California beaches for the first time. To our surprise, the October weather was beautiful and mild! We enjoyed our stay with Aunt Claudia- she took very good care of us. Tyson loved splashing in the ocean water and didn't mind the cool water temperature. Highlights included: Seaport Village, Tar the dog, Del Mar and La Jolla beaches, making seal noises at Seal Beach, playing with Aunt Claudia's dog Winston, and walking around Coronado. Tyson is lucky to have very patient grandparents... they were soooo patient with him during the car rides to/from San Diego. :-)

Seaport Village

Near Seal Beach

La Jolla

With Nick and Aunt Claudia on our last night

Good Times

2011-09-18T20:14:00.005-07:00

A few recent photos...

Community Hero Night at our local Chick-Fil-A = SWAT photo

Football season is here!

Bowling with buddies Tyson loved the birthday cake at Miles' party... licking icing off his lips

Labor Day

2011-09-06T21:11:00.006-07:00

It was such a treat to get out of the HOT weather in the Phoenix area and travel North to much cooler temperatures. We enjoyed spending time with Lindsay, watching McKenna crawl and climb all over, and celebrate Adam's birthday!

The kiddos love spending time with their Aunt Lindsay!

Tyson is now anti-strollers, but his legs have a hard time keeping up with the pace.

Happy Birthday Adam!

Healthy Season

2011-08-17T20:58:00.006-07:00

It's the little things that make us super happy = no sick appointments! That is right, Tyson hasn't had a sick appointment in over 3 straight months. We know it's summer and far from cold/flu season, but this time last year we were in and out of the doctor's office trying to keep Tyson healthy. Our little guy was sick-appointment-free the first 11 months of life, but the 13 months following, we were at the doctor too frequently dealing with all sorts of ear, nose, and throat fun.

Splash pad with buddies

First car wash

Children's Museum

Ironmen Summit

2011-07-27T20:40:00.012-07:00

AKA "Gearhart Goonies" this summer. Our biennial summer vacation with the Ironmen landed in Gearhart, Oregon in one of the most beautiful beach homes we've ever seen. Highlights included: bumper cars, roasting marshmallows, ladies day at Cannon Beach, treasure hunt on the beach, Tyson playing with the other kiddos, and visiting The Goonies house in Astoria!!!

Video games with Travis and Calvin

Being silly

Beach day...short lived because of the cold weather, but worth it
Roasting marshmallows

Mikey and Bran's house :-)

Sensational Summer

2011-07-19T11:17:00.016-07:00

Summer has been a blast! Below are some photos from the Seattle part of our trip.

Throwing rocks into the lake

Playground fun with Uncle Brian

Garbage truck day at Grandma and Grandpa's house

Catching up with old friends

First Dust Storm

2011-07-08T07:04:00.016-07:00

Dust everywhere! The dust storm that hit on Tuesday night was a first for Tyson and I. Luckily, we were all at home and didn't have to drive in the storm. Below are a few photos we snapped Wednesday morning...and after a few days of cleaning, it is still dusty in our yard.

Red, White, and Blue

2011-07-05T20:07:00.020-07:00

Happy Birthday America! We escaped 118 degree weather in the Phoenix area to cooler temperatures (and even some rain) at the cabin. It was a fun and relaxing weekend...minus the firework show that was cancelled due to the bad fires Arizona has had this summer.

McKenna wearing her 4th of July outfit and Tyson and David sporting Grandpa's crazy hats.

Tyson up high on Daddy's shoulders to catch a glimpse of the parade

Back on the ATV's

Tyson learning to throw a frisbee

Busy boy

Summer

2011-06-16T20:06:00.004-07:00

is great! We've been enjoying morning walks, playground fun, swimming, yard work (Tyson is a big helper...he loves to throw away stuff outside and sweep the rocks), and a recent weekend trip to the cabin.

First wasp sting :-(

Tyson loves trucks... special gift from Grandma and Grandpa Coburn

Early Father's Day gift... a quilt made of Adam's old soccer shirts

Hand made with lots of love by the talented Wanda

Like father, like son

Here's to no more ATV accidents!

Monday, Monday

2011-06-06T20:37:00.005-07:00

Monday is a big deal in our household because it's Garbage Truck Day! Tyson's in a truck phase and his favorites are garbage trucks and cement mixer trucks. He has been counting down the days since last Monday...

Oh, Happy Day!

2011-05-12T21:31:00.002-07:00

This photo just makes me happy...

Waiting For Superman

2011-04-13T20:59:00.004-07:00

If you want to know more about what is taking place in our public school system today, check out the documentary, Waiting For Superman. I highly recommend it! I believe it will open your eyes and push you to reflect on your own educational history, as well as, challenge you to think about our public school system and what role you want to play in it. Below is a video conversation from the director, Davis Guggenheim.

What I like about this documentary is that it highlights that our nation's education system has problems that are vast, complex, urgent, and difficult to solve. The bottom line is that the system is broken and not every student in our country is receiving an excellent education. What our public school system needs TODAY are great teachers, prepared students, excellent schools, and increased literacy.

Two

2011-04-11T06:46:00.005-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Tyson!

Happy Birthday!

Birthday cake...sorta looks like a home-made disaster, sorta looks like a dump truck

Tyson will still eat the cake = yay!

Miss Stef

2011-03-29T06:00:00.010-07:00

Last weekend, Stef came for a visit from San Fran! :-) Tyson enjoyed meeting her for the first time and showing her around the town. Spring is certainly here, so we spent as much time outside as possible.

Spring Training game

The lawn section is the way to go!

Soaking up the sunshine

Giggling with Sarah

He's becoming a ladies man...

Carolina on my mind...

2011-03-17T19:41:00.007-07:00

The first half of my Spring Break was spent in Charlotte, NC visiting Lindsay! Lindsay has been living in Charlotte for over a year and she loves it. We were blessed to see a glimpse of her life and meet a few of her friends. The South has a charm that cannot be matched in the West...I was blown away by the beauty of the city through its old historic homes, quaint restaurants and bars, and colorful flowers. Travelling with an active toddler brought new challenges as Tyson had his own agenda when we tried to plan each day packed with things to see and do. Tyson was a trooper and he really enjoyed his time with Aunt Lyndie (as he calls her).

We made it! First few moments after landing.

Visting Lindsay's church- notice the (purple) flowers!

Charleston, SC! They use actual gas lamp lanterns!

On our way to our carriage city tour...during Ty's nap time.

Visiting the Boone Plantation

Entrance to the plantation lined with 200 year old oak trees...gorgeous!

Rainbow Row

Atlantic Ocean pic

Kiss me, I'm Irish!

2011-03-17T19:25:00.005-07:00

Yes, I really am! Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Picture Day

2011-03-09T20:34:00.001-07:00

Tyson had Picture Day this week and I snapped this photo as we were heading out. I think he looks so handsome in his "big boy" shirt.

The past few weeks...

2011-03-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

have been moving faster than we can keep up with! I have been trying to get better at posting updates more regularly, but I am not quite there yet. Tyson has been a happy camper and loves playing with his puppy (stuffed animal). Lately, he sleeps, eats, runs, walks, and drives with his puppy. I am curious how long this "puppy phase" will last.

Tyson and his puppy

Watching Grandpa and Daddy trim the tree

Not quite tall enough to reach yet

Baby Ariana's baptism

Katie, Kim, and I

Focused reader

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T06:54:00.002-07:00

Thank you Aunt Linds for the shirt! :-)

Special Visitors

2011-02-07T23:00:00.006-07:00

My cousin Laneia and Uncle Sam are in town! We got to spend some time with them tonight, as well as, my Uncle Eli, Aunty Christie, Francis, and my other cousin Atali'i. Tyson sure loves my cousins!

Laneia and Tyson

Tyson giving Atali'i a hug before going "night-night"

Shoes

2011-01-26T20:59:00.003-07:00

Happy 2011! 2011 has been off to a start with a family shared cold, Tyson climbing, Tyson getting a sinus infection, a visit from Grandma and Grandpa Tober, Tyson doing more climbing, and Tyson's new love for Adam and I's shoes. When he is in our bedroom, you can find him trying to walk around in adult shoes. It's pretty funny!

Christmas 2010 Highlights

2010-12-31T13:10:00.005-07:00

Christmas certainly is a very special time of year! We enjoyed our time with the Coburn side of the family this Christmas. Highlights include: a visit from Santa on Christmas Eve, yummy holiday foods, new Big Boy toys, jumping on Grandma and Grandpa's trampoline, and spending time with each other.

Definitely took some time to warm up to Santa

First dump truck

Christmas photo with new cousin McKenna

Getting better at tearing open wrapping paper

SNOW! Sledding for the first time. :-)

Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree!

2010-12-16T07:05:00.003-07:00

We went BIG this year for Christmas and went with a real 8 foot Christmas tree (apparently, our Noble Fir tree is from Oregon...I looked and looked but couldn't find any trees from Washington in the desert for sale). We had a real tree for our first Christmas in our apartment in Seattle, but this tree has proven to be way more work with its size and weight.

Bringing our tree home

Adam and Tyson making sure that the tree is secure

Christmas lights: check!

Ta Da!

Our Little Helper

2010-12-12T20:15:00.004-07:00

Lately, Tyson has enjoyed helping us clean our home. He loves to sweep anything he can outside (even the rocks) and sweep up the pine needles on the floor from our Christmas tree. He also likes to throw away his dirty diapers in the trash and clean his tray after a meal with a sponge. It's pretty cute! :-)

The Newest Addition to the Coburn Family!

2010-12-05T20:01:00.003-07:00

She's here and soooo cute! McKenna Taylor born on December 3rd at 7 pounds 7 ounces and 20.75 inches long!

Proud Dad and Proud Uncle

Tyson checking out his new cousin

Excited that I am an Aunt!

Thanksgiving!

2010-11-29T21:09:00.003-07:00

This year, we celebrated Tyson's first Ohio Thanksgiving with the extended Tober Family. We had a great time visting with relatives, eating a delicious Thanksgiving feast, and taking in cold, Winter weather.

Trying to pack for Ohio, but Tyson wanted to play, so I had fun with a bandana

Special time with Great-Grandpa Tober

An early 60th Birthday cake for my Dad

Tyson playing with Nora

They loved climbing up and down the stairs

"Bye-Bye" Ohio- we lucked out and had an empty window seat in our row!

Trick or Treat?

2010-10-31T14:02:00.001-07:00

Tyson the Tiger! We've been trying to teach Tyson to say "Trick or Treat?" and it sounds more like "ti".:-)

Friendly Tiger

Growl like a Tiger!!!

Daddy helping with the tiger face hood...

October Highlights

2010-10-27T21:45:00.003-07:00

October has been a great month! We had a good time with out-of-town visitors (Lindsay and my parents), relaxing during my Fall Break, and watching our little man take his first steps! :-)

Hanging out with Aunt Linds

Tyson loves watching his Daddy work in the backyard

Lego time with Grandma Tober

"Will you please pick me up Grandpa Tober?"

A train ride

First carousel ride

One and a Half

2010-10-11T07:00:00.005-07:00

Is Tyson really one and half years old today? Yep, he is! Our little man is growing like a weed and is finally starting to get some hair on his head. He loves playing with trucks, cars, legos, calling people on our cell phones, and chasing his red ball. Lately, he really likes hiding from Adam and I in any closet. Can't wait for the holiday season!

Beginning to learn how to feed himself with a spoon...somehow the food goes everywhere but his mouth

Becoming attached to his sunglasses now- even indoors!

Hard working boy :-)

Autumn...

2010-09-25T07:52:00.001-07:00

is the favorite season in the Coburn household. I love autumn for its beautiful colors and Adam couldn't be happier this time of year because it is football season (aside from ASU football, his love for football has grown to follow his old High School team and the NFL). Since maple trees and apple trees aren't native to Arizona we bring the season of autumn alive through baking pumpkin bread and pumpkin seeds, drinking apple cider and pumpkin spice lattes, eating pumpkin scones and pumpkin pie, reading stories, and decorating our home...

30 Years Old

2010-09-06T13:29:00.006-07:00

Mr. Adam has reached a new year and a brand new decade in his life! Wahoo! We've been celebrating for two weekends in a row to get his thirties started with a bang. I failed to take a lot of photos...sorry about that.

Adam's Wall of Fame

August Rewind

2010-08-31T20:49:00.003-07:00

Our August included...

some silly times...

seeing if the bottle piggy bank has milk in it like a real bottle...

story time with Uncle David and Aunt Sara...

a new pool toy...

a shoulder ride on Grandpa Coburn...

story time with Grandma Coburn...

and meeting 12 day old Karis Tucker.

Back to School

2010-08-16T20:17:00.003-07:00

I have a great group of students this year and several of them are sibilings of my former students- which is really fun! I teach at a school that serves a population of students in which 96% qualify for free/reduced lunch. Like every teacher, I have stories...some uplifting and some that are very tough to hear. Instead of telling one of my classroom stories, I want to highlight some national facts about our public education system for you to digest.

Educational inequity is the reality that where a child is born determines the quality of his or her education and life prospects.

Educational inequity starts early and gets worse over time.

By the time they reach fourth grade, children living in low-income communities are already two to three grades behind their higher-income peers.

Just half of students in low-income communities will graduate high school by age 18. Those who do graduate will perform on average at an eighth-grade level.

Overall, only 1 in 10 students growing up in poverty will graduate from college.

Educational inequity prevents children from fulfilling their potential.

It limits life choices, professional options, and incomes, and weakens families and communities. Because children in low-income communities are predominantly children of color, they also face the added burden of societal low expectations and discrimination.

Educational inequity undermines our nation's economic strength.

A McKinsey & Company study indicates that educational inequity costs the country $500 billion each year, which is the equivalent of a permanent national recession.

Joy in July

2010-07-24T12:05:00.005-07:00

Last month, we purchased our first home! We love our new home and we're so excited to have more space. Below are some recent photos of our adventures.

Leaving on a jet plane

Tyson was a champ and got tubes in his ears last week

Moving boxes make great tunnels

Story time with Micah

Five Years...

2010-07-16T06:15:00.003-07:00

Happy 5th Anniversary to my man! Can't believe that we've already hit the half decade mark! I love you!

I dug up one of our engagement photos - May 2005 @ Carceek Park in Seattle

Wonderful Washington

2010-07-13T06:40:00.002-07:00

Summer, oh how we love you! The Seattle area has again proven to be the perfect summer escape for us from the hot Arizona sun. We enjoyed our time with family and friends and also got some rest and relaxation before I head back to work in a few weeks.

The fish ladder at the Ballard Locks

Hanging out with Becky and Natalie

First time in sand

Meeting the newest addition to the Moore Family, Miss Natalie

Day trip to Vancouver, B.C.

Melissa lives in Chicago now and it was such a treat to spend time with her and Eli

Snoqualmie Falls with Becky

TFA gals at Rachel's wedding

We are Thankful

2010-06-28T23:37:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, Tyson gave us quite the scare last week. The excitement of closing on our first home is of little significance compared to our the health and well-being of our family. We are just so thankful Tyson is doing well and that we're surrounded with such incredible family and friends.

Tyson and I are really enjoying our time together at home. We've had some early morning outdoor adventures (to avoid the lovely summer heat) and he was my little helper when we packed up our home. Although, he really enjoyed unpacking the boxes that were already packed up. :-)

Studying the ducks at Encanto Park

Wearing his blanket as he crawls after Daddy

First baseball game

Angie!

2010-06-12T21:40:00.006-07:00

Tyson and I traveled to Northern Cal to visit my dear friend Angie. The last time that I saw Ang was when she came to visit from Rhode Island, seven months pregnant with her son Porter. I couldn't be happier that she is back on the left side of the country! Tyson and I enjoyed playing with Porter, now 22 months old, and watching him in action. I am a big fan of the Bay Area- the scenery is beautiful, the beach is near, and the seasons are mild. My trip ended shorter than planned because Tyson came down with a high fever, ear infection number three, and an unexpected trip to Urgent Care. It was well worth the eventful trek to spend time with Ang before her second baby arrives in October.

Porter and Ang playing in the backyard...and their goat Harry in the background

In Porter's porch chair...the poor kid was forced by his mom

Heading out for a walk

Playing in the pantry

Does it get any better than this?

2010-05-30T20:39:00.005-07:00

We're enjoying every minute together at home... yay for summer!

May! Where did you go?

2010-05-25T21:29:00.001-07:00

In my experience, the first and last months of the school year are insanely busy...which explains why we haven't posted anything in weeks. May had some bold highs and lows...Tyson came down with ear infection number two and then Adam got really sick with either food poisoning or the flu. Adam was so sick that it was a sad flashback to when he got very ill during a service trip to the Dominican Republic back in 2003. It was no fun having my boys feeling miserable and luckily, they're back to normal again. Highlights for May include: Mother's Day at John and Marsha's cabin, visits from dear TFA buddies Kim and Jenna who just finished up their first year of law school, Tyson meeting Chicagoland cousin Erin for the first time, a bittersweet goodbye to many of my students from my first year of teaching whom are bound for high school in the fall, and taking in the unusual, mild May weather.

Being silly and putting a 13 month old in a newborn swing

Not feeling well and resting in the laundry room- the beginning of the May ear infection

Tyson wasn't feeling well at the cabin, but he was all smiles getting a ride from Uncle David

Catching up with Kim- I sure missed teaching with her this year!

Ty's first art projects

These days you'll find him playing under the coffee table even after a bump to the head

April Rewind

2010-04-27T22:12:00.002-07:00

Aside from Tyson's first birthday, the month of April was so much fun because Tyson went swimming several times on the weekends. So far, he likes the water and really wants to explore without us holding him. He loves to slap the water and splash himself and others around him, drink the pool water, and try to crawl off the top pool step into deeper waters.

Enjoying the Spring weather

Latest family photo

Hanging out with Chrissy and Morgan

Happy boy in the pool

On his back for the first time and looking a little unsure

One of many splashing photos

ONE!

2010-04-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

Tyson is ONE!!! Adam and I cannot believe a full year has flown by since our precious little one entered our lives. Words cannot express how much Tyson means to us and all of the ways he has strengthened us individually, as parents, and our marriage. We love you Tyson Shea and cannot wait to see what another year will bring!

Happy #1

Bring on the cake!

Tyson loves his Daddy

Birthday morning family photo

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

"After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lighting, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay." -Matthew 28: 1-6

TGIF!

2010-04-02T19:21:00.002-07:00

As the saying goes, "when it rains, it pours". Yep, we've had one of those weeks and we've been waiting anxiously for Friday. Last weekend started off with Tyson's first ear infection, but he was a good sport about it and wasn't fussy. So, we were able to take him to his first Spring Training baseball game in honor of John's 60th Birthday! We had a great time at the baseball game, but things for our baby boy just seemed to head down hill from there. By Wednesday, he was diagnosed with bronchiolitis and he ended up staying home from day care the entire week. It has been tough to see Tyson not feeling well for days on end. On top of Tyson being sick, my car ended up in the shop for the week needing major repairs. To end on a good note, we've been blessed to have John and Marsha take good care of our little guy all week so we were able to work and allowing us to drive one of their cars while mine was in the shop.
Looking forward to a happy and (hopefully) healthy Easter!

The Coburn men

Photo with Sara and David and lots of sunglasses!

Tyson napping on Marsha from the seventh to ninth innings

Happier times with Tyson...a day before the bronchiolitis symtoms kicked in

Spring Break!

2010-03-19T19:11:00.012-07:00

A week off from work is just what I needed! Life slowed down and I was able to enjoy some very special times with family and friends. At the start of my break, I was a bridesmaid in Ashleigh's beautiful outdoor wedding. She met her husband Josh at Challenger our first year teaching = office romances can work out. :-) Then my mom and I traveled to Cleveland to introduce Tyson to his great-grandparents for the first time. I enjoyed watching Tyson interact with my grandparents...it was a neat experience to see my son in their arms because I can remember them holding my brothers in the arms many years ago. I also got to meet my cousin's daughter Nora for the first time! Aside from seeing my grandparents, my time in Cleveland was busy spending time with Aunt Diane, Uncle Bill, Aunt Linda, Great Aunt Ethel, Great Aunt Kathleen, as well as, cousins, Kip and Kelly, Jenny, and David. I already miss Aunt Diane and Aunt Linda's cooking...

The beautiful bride

Tyson showing Grandpa his fish face

Tyson and Nora

Baby shot with great-grandparents...Nora is wondering what all the fuss is about. :)

I'm Eleven Months Old Today!

2010-03-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

Spring Fever is here = Tyson is a month away from turning ONE, Adam has been out of town for work this week, and I am counting down the days until my Spring Break.

Tyson has been up to some new things...

climbing up...

a little bit of flying...

and standing with support!

Dresser drawers

2010-02-28T16:39:00.002-07:00

Tyson loves to play with our dresser drawers. We've now placed a box in front of the drawers to block him from getting his fingers smashed. The photos below are of Tyson enjoying the drawers one last time.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T16:57:00.001-07:00

It doesn't get any better than when Valentine's Day falls on a weekend! There was a lot of the color red, hearts, and love in our day today.

We rarely match, but had to for V-day

Tyson's first time in the hiking backpack

Tyson's hat stayed on his head about 3 seconds more after this photo

We're so glad that Tyson liked his first family hike

I'm Ten Months Old Today!

2010-02-11T06:30:00.008-07:00

Happy February! February is the golden birthday month for our extended families- seven birthdays in all during the shortest month of the year. It worked out well that Tyson was born in April. :-)

Tyson loves: toys with lights and music, Daddy singing to him, exploring every inch of our apartment, chewing on his socks/shoes while wearing them, and bedtime stories.

Tyson doesn't love: teething and rice cereal.

Tender moments: holding Tyson in the morning before heading out to work.

Snack time = play time!

2010-01-27T17:30:00.002-07:00

First, cracker in hand

Next, examine cracker

Offer cracker to the floor

Then, rub nose while looking at cracker

Finally, drop cracker on floor after this photo

Fun times with the Tobers

2010-01-22T17:05:00.001-07:00

Last weekend, my parents were in town to golf and to spend time with us. It felt like a mini-vacation to Adam and I because we got to hang out with them at their hotel. No record breaking temperatures in the Phoenix area when they were in town this time around. :-)

At cousin Atali'i's birthday party

Styling Grandma's hair

View from hotel of Camelback Mountain

Another Camelback photo

I'm Nine Months Old Today!

2010-01-11T07:00:00.001-07:00

Happy New Year! Tyson is now nine months old- we can't believe it! He still doesn't have much hair, but loves to army crawl anywhere he can.

Can you tell that Tyson had blueberries for breakfast?

Tober Family Christmas

2009-12-29T21:43:00.001-07:00

Is the Christmas season really over already? We had a great time in Woodinville, WA celebrating with my family. A few highlights: attending the Children's Christmas Eve Service at our old church in Bellevue, eating my mom's Christmas cookies, Christmas morning, viewing the holiday lights at the Bellevue Botanical Garden, sunny winter weather (no rain), and attending the Nutcracker (a family tradition), where the flower girl from our wedding was in the cast.

Bundled up waiting to see Santa

The joy of Christmas

Let's EAT!

There is a mirror on this page of his book :-)

We braved the cold for the beautiful lights

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T11:06:00.000-07:00

As Ilalia and I prepare to experience our first Christmas with Tyson, I wanted to share with you a simple but profound message we heard in a sermon last weekend. I have heard the Christmas story recounted many times over, but I had never stopped to look at it from the following perspective.

Jesus is God in the flesh. He humbled himself to be born in Bethlehem as a baby, God taking on flesh. God became a baby. Born through the normal birth process, wrapped in strips of cloth and placed in a manger. God, the one who spoke the universe into existence, couldn't even speak an intelligent word. God, the one who holds the stars in their places, couldn't even change his own diaper. God, the one who controls the Heavens, couldn't even control his own movements. God in a body; not just any body, but the body of a human baby.

God chose to enter this world in simple humility.

Imagine you were God and you were coming into this world:
- Would you choose a backwater area like Israel, or the gold and glitter of Rome, the most famous city in the world of its day in time?
- Would you choose a little, out of the way town like Bethlehem, or the capital city of Jerusalem?
- Would you choose a nobody carpenter to be your father, or a king to be your father?
- Would you choose a young, country girl or a well-bred and educated princess to be your mother?
- Would you choose a manger in a stall, in a shed behind an inn, or a lavishly equipped palace nursery?
- Would you announce it to a group of outcast sheppards on an obscure hillside outside of Bethlehem, or with a worldwide trumpet blast?

I will leave you with a sample of one of our favorite modern Christmas songs, "I Celebrate The Day", by Relient K (click on the link for the full song). We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and we pray that you will recognize and celebrate the true reason for the season, the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

I'm Eight Months Old Today!

2009-12-11T07:00:00.003-07:00

Tyson turns eight months old and the Christmas season is in full swing. We can't wait for his first Christmas!!!

Being a silly baby

Buddies

Eating his book during story time

Tyson loves: eating, sleeping, looking outside the car window, cuddling, putting his mouth on anything, and watching Mom and Dad sing and dance.

Tyson doesn't love: teething pain and when we take his thumb out of his mouth.

Tender moments: play time with Tyson and his toys.

Farewell Lindsay

2009-12-07T21:24:00.004-07:00

Our sister Lindsay is relocating through her job to North Carolina this week. We are very excited for her and the many adventures she is sure to experience while living in Charlotte. Although we will really miss her, there is no doubt that she will do great things.

Coburn Family Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T20:17:00.011-07:00

Tyson spent his first Thanksgiving "up in the pines", as Adam would say. We traveled to Prescott (the locals pronounce it like biscuit but with a "P"...), about two hours north of Phoenix, with David, Sara, and Lindsay. We feasted with Adam's relatives at Great-Grandma Coburn's cabin (Adam's grandma), the same location where Adam spent all of his Thanksgivings growing up. So, as you can imagine, Adam has many good memories at the cabin. We enjoyed taking in the stunning views of Prescott and spending quality time with the extended Coburn family, the 26 that were present.

Thumb Butte

It's the little things...

2009-11-25T19:25:00.004-07:00

that melt my heart. Hooray for cold weather! I love seeing my little man in a winter hat and pajamas.

I love his feet in these pajamas

Tyson is wondering why I am making him wear this

I'm Seven Months Old Today!

2009-11-11T13:47:00.003-07:00

Tyson's FIRST ASU Football Game

2009-11-06T19:22:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday was a day to remember...Tyson's first college football game!

On our way to the game using the light rail for the first time

Ilalia and Sara showing some Sun Devil spirit

Tyson had fun playing with Aunt Maryellen and Leonard

Halloween night... Tyson is pretty worn out after a long day.

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T07:30:00.000-07:00

Visit from Grandma and Grandpa Tober

2009-10-18T19:23:00.002-07:00

Last weekend my parents were in town from Washington. The weather was unusually HOT for this time of year, however we were still able to get out and explore some of the attractions Phoenix has to offer. Aside from the record heat, we all had a great time visiting a couple places we had never been to before and Tyson enjoyed entertaining Grandma and Grandpa all weekend.

Desert Botanical Garden

Guess who got new sunglasses?

Relaxing in the shade at Taliesin West

I'm Six Months Old Today!

2009-10-11T07:45:00.001-07:00

Fall is here, I'm on Fall Break, and Tyson is six months old = wahoo!!! Below are some recent photos.

Smiling at Dad

Drooling on Dad

Resting on Dad

Crib time

Playing with Micah

Baby feet

Tyson loves: eating, flying, bouncing, playing with toys that have lights and sounds, sucking on his toes, and cuddling.

Tyson doesn't love: pain from teething and when we take his thumb out of his mouth.

Tender moments: story time with Tyson and hearing his loud giggles.

Are You Ready For Some Football?

2009-09-27T19:55:00.001-07:00

Football season is in full swing! Tyson has been enjoying his first football season and although last weekend was a tough weekend for our teams, Tyson's not afraid to show a little school spirit!

Go Sun Devils!

"There's always next week Grandpa"

Go Huskies!

The Newest Addition to the Tober Family!

2009-09-13T19:10:00.001-07:00

On September 9, 2009, my cousins Kip and Kelly welcomed their baby girl into the world. She weighed 8 pounds and 8 ounces. Kelly was a trooper and waited a full week past her due date to deliver Nora Grace Primrose. Her birth date will forever be 9.9.09- pretty cool! Congratulations Kip and Kelly! We cannot wait to meet her.

Family photo

Great Grandma Tober with baby Nora

I'm Five Months Old Today!

2009-09-11T16:35:00.000-07:00

Adam's Birthday Weekend!

2009-09-09T21:19:00.009-07:00

Labor Day Weekend was not only a relaxing long weekend at the Coburn Cabin, it was Adam's 29th Birthday!!! We all enjoyed the cool weather and celebrating Adam's special day.

Happy Birthday!

After this photo, Tyson wanted to eat the moose

Playing with Grandma Coburn

Guys photo

Relaxing in the air chair

Family Gathering

2009-09-02T20:15:00.002-07:00

We got to spend some time with my Uncle Sam and cousin Laneia when they came in from out of state on Saturday. Tyson enjoyed meeting them for the first time and seeing his Uncle Eli, Aunty Christie, and cousin Atali'i. We're so glad that my uncle and cousin braved the heat to see us- we've missed you guys!

Meeting Uncle Sam and Laneia

Tyson hopes to have hair like Atali'i

Hanging out

Grandpa to the Rescue

2009-08-29T20:52:00.007-07:00

Thank you Grandpa Coburn for watching Tyson a few times when his day care has been unavailable. Also, we're happy to report that Tyson has a new crib to sleep in! Grandpa Coburn helped Adam pick up the crib in his van and then helped us set it up as well.

Ironmen Summit Revisited

2009-08-20T22:17:00.002-07:00

Below is a short video that our friend Reuben put together to document our gathering up in the Northwest this summer. We all had a great time! It's pretty amazing to see how the group keeps getting larger and how Travis' shorts keep getting shorter... :) Thanks for the video Reuben!

So this is what 10 years looks like...

2009-08-15T09:00:00.001-07:00

This weekend is my 10 year high school reunion! Go Kangs (Adam gets a kick out of the fact that my HS mascot is a kangaroo). Since I just returned to work, I am not able to attend my reunion. Last month, I was able to see some good friends from LWHS during my trip to Washington.

I'm Four Months Old Today!

2009-08-11T00:15:00.004-07:00

We can't believe that our little guy is now four months old. Time sure flies! We're having so much fun watching him grow and playing with him. Below are some recent photos.

A hot Summer day

Ilalia's First Day of School

Studying together

In the Bumbo Seat

Story Time!

Tyson loves: eating, rolling around on the floor, kicking while taking a bath, and cooing.

Tyson doesn't love: when we take his thumb out of his mouth.

Tender moments: hearing Tyson giggle in the morning while he's being dressed and watching him look at himself in the mirror.

Thanks Mom!

2009-07-26T15:28:00.002-07:00

Where has my summer break gone? I am now back at school and trying to get in the swing of things. My wonderful mom watched Tyson last week while I was at Language Arts Workshops. Thank you Mom for flying down to Phoenix to help with Tyson. We really appreciate it!

Adventures in Washington

2009-07-19T20:48:00.007-07:00

We returned to Washington to vacation with the Ironmen (Adam's good buddies from Pepperdine) and their families in Hansville, Washington. The Ironmen Summit is a biennial summer event and our crew has grown by three since the last gathering in Heber, Arizona. Special thanks to the Myers family for being such great hosts. Check out Reuben's blog for some photo journalism from the trip. Tyson and I extended our trip a few extra days to relax in the cool weather before I returned for work.

Mt. Rainier at dusk (our view from the plane)

Stroll around Greenlake

Ironmen Summit 2009

Did you know that Adam can skateboard?

Croquet fun

Tyson's first ferry ride

Tyson has found his thumb

Tyson and Selah reconnecting

Happy Anniversary!

2009-07-16T07:22:00.001-07:00

Unfortunately, Adam and I are away from each other on our 4th Anniversary. We did get to celebrate our Anniversary early on Monday night with a great dinner on the Kirkland Waterfront. I miss you Adam and can't wait to see you on Sunday!

I'm Three Months Old!

2009-07-11T22:00:00.002-07:00

Woodinville

2009-07-01T21:46:00.001-07:00

While Adam was up in Minnesota for work, Tyson and I traveled to Washington to spend some time with family and friends. Tyson enjoyed meeting Uncle Brian, Uncle Kevin, and Great Uncle Vikee. We enjoyed the summer weather, along with a visit to the petting zoo, and a trip to downtown Seattle to meet Grandpa Tober for lunch.

Mt. Rainier

Natalie loves holding babies and she did a good job w/ Tyson

Playdate with Selah Clayton...and yes, he's holding her hand

Exploring the petting zoo we went to often as kids

Meeting Great Uncle Vikee

Quick photo op while Grandma Tober prepares dinner

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T00:01:00.002-07:00

Proud Daddy

Grandpa Tober

Grandpa Coburn

Month Two Rewind

2009-06-14T22:30:00.002-07:00

Discovering his hands and fingers

Nap time

Enjoying his chair

Relaxing in his robe after a bath

His serious face

Tyson loves: looking at fans and blinds, licking bath water, laying on anything soft, toys that have lights, and eating.

Tyson doesn't love: burping and gas, the bright AZ sun in his eyes, and wearing shoes.

Tender moments: hearing his first cooing sounds and giggles and observing him focus on people.

I'm Two Months Old Today!

2009-06-11T16:50:00.001-07:00

Thanks Christa!

2009-06-03T21:30:00.005-07:00

Last week I returned to work for the final days of the school year. It was nice to see my students, but I sure missed my little guy. Our cousin Christa and her five kids took care of Tyson for the week. Thank you so much Christa. Tyson had a great time with you all!

Memorial Day Weekend Fun

2009-05-31T14:24:00.019-07:00

Tyson took his first road trip to Grandma and Grandpa Coburn's cabin up in Heber, Arizona last weekend. He loved the cool weather and enjoyed the sound and smell of the rain throughout the weekend. We all had a great time and Tyson proved to be quite the road warrior! Below are a few highlights of the weekend.

Starting to smile

Happy in the Pack 'n Play

Relaxing with Aunt Lindsay

Learning to take a bottle from Dad

Roadrunner sighting out on the deck!

Tyson looks on as we prepare for dinner. Special thanks to Grandpa Coburn (wearing the poncho in the background) who braved the cold rain to man the grill!

Ready to cruise back down the mountain

Highlights of Tyson's First Month

2009-05-13T22:05:00.011-07:00

First meds (reflux)

Hanging out with his first buddy, Micah

Bath time!

Chilling with his dog

Lounging in his chair

Month One Rewind!

Tyson loves: taking naps on anyone, being held, going for walks in his stroller, car rides, bath time, eating, and having Grandpa Coburn sing to him.

Tyson doesn't love: being put to bed, watching Mom and Dad eat, sitting in a chair or swing for more than 10 minutes, having gas.

Tender moments: Cuddling with Tyson after he wakes up from a nap, watching Tyson observe new things, Tyson's developing smile.

I'm One Month Old Today!

2009-05-11T20:36:00.003-07:00

Our Blog Debut!

2009-05-05T22:00:00.024-07:00

Tyson Shea Coburn was born on April 11, 2009 at 7:40 pm. He weighed 8 pounds 3 ounces and was 20.25 inches in length. Tyson is a little over 3 weeks old now and is doing great. He certainly is a precious gift and we feel blessed to have him in our lives. Again, thank you to all for your love, support, and prayers.

I thought it would be fitting for this, our first-ever blog post, to venture into the video-making world as well and produce our first-ever video (this may explain the delay in our first blog posting)! We compiled a few photos and video from the last 3+ weeks of Tyson's life and hope you enjoy. For those who haven't met Tyson yet, he sends his love, and looks forward to meeting you someday soon!

Also, to view more photos of Tyson, I've set up an account with Flickr to store and share photos online. I understand you can do all sorts of fun and creative things on Flickr, but for now, we've just uploaded our current pics of Tyson for you to browse and enjoy...