Hatch House

Katie Mae, Katie Mae, gettin' bigger every day.

2011-08-26T12:35:00.004-07:00

How did she get so BIG so fast?

We sure do love having her in our family.
She eats great & loves real food. In fact after every spoonful, she crams her hand into her mouth to make sure she got it all.

As you can see, she's very smiley!

She's a good sitter, but can't always figure out how to get down from the sitting position.

And she's started forward motion. This is the first day I noticed it. She's even better at it now.

Let the Halloween costumes begin!

2011-08-26T12:19:00.002-07:00

Is anyone out there as excited as I am for the making of costumes to begin?

If you don't already know what we are going to be, here's a clue . . .

"Whaaaat?!"

Nectarines!!!

2011-07-28T14:27:00.002-07:00

If the forbidden fruit tasted like ripe nectarines, I would have eaten it too. In fact, I don't know how Eve resisted it for so long. I don't know about anyone else, but I haven't been able to go to Walmart without smeeling and buying the wonderful peaches and nectarines. Aroma is the best sales tactic for me!

Today I walked by the produce and once again couldn't resist and bought 3 nectarines. I decided to share mine with Katie. Needless to say, she coudln't get enough...

Yes she was crying, but it's because she didn't want to suck on it. She wanted to eat it. I open the pouch and gave her little mushy bits and she was in heaven.

I'm so glad when daddy comes home.

2011-07-25T15:07:00.008-07:00

For anyone who didn't know, Carson travels during the week and comes home on the weekends. Since we see him less often, we really make the most out of the time we are together. Don't get me wrong, we aren't going on huge outings, etc. We are just doing simple things together & I love it. Like I said in a previous post, we have spent a lot of time at the lake & fishing. We basically spend Saturday playing as an entire family. It's great!

Well, this last week Carson had me drive him to the airport & therefore, I had to pick him up on Friday. Since I was driving to the city(an hour away), I figured I would make a day out of it. My mother & sister-in-law went to a history museum with me. It was awesome. Here is a slew of pictures to show the fun we had.

This is some form of elephant. Isn't it creepy looking.

This is the largest skull ever found.

Skesis?

As you can see, it was awesome! Madi liked it, but Cal was scared to get close to the bones.

After the museum, we hit a few shops. Then it was off to the airport. YEAH!

We picked-up Carson and headed to this awesome little place for dinner. It's called Pops.

It's part gas station, part restraunt, all soda!

They have 600 different flavors of soda.

P.S. if you like really amazing, to die for chocolate milk shakes, I recommend you get the Double Fudge Milkshake at Pops.

All in all, it was a really great Friday, which led into a really great weekend.

oh what do you do in the summertime. . .

2011-07-25T14:37:00.005-07:00

Other than our fab trip to Utah, here are a few things we've been doing this summer. . .

I must say we have spent a good amount of time swimming in the lakes here. It has been very helpful with the ridiculous heatwave we've been experiencing.

We enjoyed some fireworks on the 4th.

We've introduced Katie to solids.

We've definately enjoyed fishing! I can't wait to do this in the fall, when it's not quite so hot.

(Carson's pretending to eat a fish)

We've made tents for book reading and movie watching.

Spent plenty of time in the sprinkler & therefore mud.

We've made some fun crafts.

We've spent plent of time at parks.

(Katie's first big swing)

We have also visited the library and gone to lots of play group activities.

We have enjoyed our summer thus far. My kids are at such a fun age. I LOVE IT!

He's a Real Boy!

2011-07-19T20:17:00.003-07:00

This is the car seat we bought for Madi when she was a toddler.

Poor Cal has been riding in a pink seat for far to long.

This is what it looks like now... I made this cover out of an old shirt and jeans.
I don't think it can get any more "boy" than that & he loves it.

Trip to Utah

2011-07-02T16:41:00.013-07:00

We went to Utah for 2 weeks. It was great!

(this is a 26in pizza we got at Lotsa Motsa)

The kids and I rode in the van with my parents. Carson had to work so he just flew in to Utah on the weekends. The 1st weekend was Father's Day weekend so we went camping with Carson's BF and my cousin (they are one and the same, aka Damon). It started out great. We had a great location & the weather was just perfect.

(Mosquitos in Utah were HORRIBLE! Poor Madi had 42 bites at one point on our trip. In this picture you will notice her puffy eyes. She had 1 bite on her right & 2 bites on her left eye. Poor Chicken!)

Footie Jammies with shoes, can they get any cutier? . . .

. . .Yes! They fell asleep holding hands.

Then it rained! As you can see from the pictures, we were surrounded by mud! We were driving my cousins Honda Civic & therefore, got stuck. Damon had to borrow and eventually buy a tow rope from someone at another campsite.By the time we were completely out, it had started to snow! Are you kidding me? In the end of June?!

Our kids got along really well. Madi and Ryann are 1 day apart in age.

I found them telling each other stories one the porch.

After spending time with the great grandparents, it was off to the wedding.

Laura and Josh got married in the Logan Temple. It was great!

Madi was pretending to fish with her balloon. Funny Girl.

This was the first time we had all the grandkids together. Grammy couldn't have been more pleased.

After the wedding we headed out to the Weber. (a family cabin)

Finally, after a few days of relaxing in the cool mountains, we headed home to this hot and dry summer in Oklahoma. We had a great time.

We miss you Utah!

Super Day

2011-06-10T17:24:00.004-07:00

Madi was playing with a Batman "action figure" today. While she was making him fly around the room she stated, "I wish I had a cape."

"Well, why can't you," I thought.

I looked through what fabric I had & pulled out an old sheet that just lost it's elastic. (A simple fix, but also a good excuse to cut it up & play.)

Here's how they turned out. . .Showing off her super muscles.

I look like a what?

2011-05-30T14:02:00.004-07:00

In high school, I ran track. My mom would watch me run. She always said I looked like a gazelle.

Today, I did it!

I ran 8 miles.

It only took me 1 hr 20min.

That's the longest run I've ever ran.

(previous distance 4.2miles)

Sure am glad they're mine!

2011-05-29T16:10:00.002-07:00

Otherwise, I'd have a hard time giving them back.

Weeeeeeeekend fun!

2011-05-29T15:42:00.006-07:00

We went to Josie's again!

Need I say more?

We fished, we played in the water, we cooked outside, we chased and caught fireflies, and this time- we slept outside.

Here's the proof. . .

Cowgirl

2011-05-28T05:41:00.002-07:00

Here is Madi and her new boots.

We got Madi & Cal the same hat, so I had to girl her's up a bit.

Cowboy

2011-05-23T14:59:00.002-07:00

We got the kids some new boots and hats. I can't get over how cute they are! I don't have any pictures of Madi yet, but here's Cal. . .

I am WOMAN!

2011-05-11T17:36:00.001-07:00

This happened a while ago. (our broiler unit exploded-or just melted-not sure which) I ordered the new part and, since my husband wasn't home, I proceeded to take out and replace the damaged goods. I'm proud to say that 1 internet search, 1 phone call to Dad, and 20 min. later, it's done. I turned it on and it does work, but I haven't cooked anything yet. I'll keep you posted on wether the house burns down or not.

Best Cousin Ever!

2011-05-11T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have the best cousin ever! Her name is Katie. Just because I was able to name a quote from a movie she sent me an absolutely awesome pair of homemade shoes for my baby, Katie. They are a little big, but I can't wait until she can wear them. (P.S. they are wicked cute!) I also love the picture her son James drew for me.

A Good Childhood

2011-05-08T12:51:00.004-07:00

When we get old, I hope my children look back and remember a good childhood. I mean, what can get better than a day at the zoo, followed up by your 1st rootbeer float?

Emily and Lance random showed up at my house last week. It's been fun to hang out a little.

We got to see a 3wk old baby elephant. Super Cute!

They both loved the floats, and so did the dogs.

Dress 4 & 5

2011-05-05T11:07:00.004-07:00

Dress 4 actually was the first one I cut out. It is too small around Madi's chest. It will have to wait for Katie to get a little bigger (a year or 2).

Dress 5 is definately my favorite so far! It's a red shirt with the word "CINCH" all over it.

(Cinch brand clothing)

Dress #3

2011-04-29T12:17:00.003-07:00

Dress #2

2011-04-26T18:14:00.002-07:00

I'm loving making these.

Good thing, because I have about 7 more shirts to go.

Easter Weekend

2011-04-26T17:40:00.005-07:00

We ended up going to my sister's house on Saturday for Easter festivities. The group there consisted of the following. . . my parents, my sister, Josie, and her husband, my brother, Nate, and his family and my little brother, Kit. We had a lot of fun! We died eggs, shot skeet, hunted for eggs, ate lots of food, played frisbee forever, and hung out. We really had a great day! Here are pictures to prove it.

I made matching skirts and ties for everyone. Carson's tie matches Katie's skirt. Cal's tie matches Madi's skirt. My skirt was different than both. However, all the skirt's had the same brown trim. I think we turned out super cute.

Sewing Frenzy!

2011-04-18T16:32:00.003-07:00

I've been compelled to sew. No imparticular reason. I just feel a need to make things.

For Easter I made the girls and myself a new skirt. This one is Madi's. They are all made out of different material, but the color scheam and trim are the same. I also want to make ties. (we'll see how that turns out.)

Carson was given a hand full of button up shirts that don't fit him. So, I decided to see if I could turn them into summer dresses for Madi. This is the first one I've completed. I think the straps are a little farther apart than I want, but other than that, I'm pretty pleased.

Madi doesn't look pleased because I made her try it on about 5 times (equal to a million for a 3yr old) I also sewed to pleats in the back down flat after i took this picture. It looks much better.

Happy Baby

2011-04-18T16:25:00.002-07:00

Katie has been smiling for a while now. However, she never smiles for the camera. It took about 15 shots to get these two smiley pictures. I sure do think she's cute!

Fish Fry Challenge!

2011-04-12T18:31:00.002-07:00

Carson had this "great idea" to go to the local Steak and Catfish Barn. They have an all you can eat catfish challenge. You have all day to eat as many pieces of catfish along with two sides, you just can't through up. So far the most catfish eaten is 45 pieces. This challenge was also attempted by Adam Richman on Man vs. Food. He was only able to eat 29 pieces. Well, Carson thought it would be fun to "take them out of business" by having 6 adult males take the challenge all at once. Spouses and kids came along as well. We had such a good time. None of the women ordered catfish, but the food I had was SO GOOD!

2 hours, lots of fun, multiple drop outs, a few near throw-ups later we were done. I'm proud and embrassed to say I'm related to the top 2 eaters. Carson ate 27 pieces and my brother Nate ate 30 pieces. Gross!

I'm so proud to be an Okie!

Do you know this man?

2011-04-12T18:25:00.002-07:00

I Don't!

I ate a FISH!!! (and liked it)

2011-04-12T13:54:00.007-07:00

Last week we went to Josie's house for 2 fun filled days of fishing. We ended up catching a lot of sun fish, lots of large-mouth bass, and one catfish.

On day one we fished out of the little pond. It's pretty low right now. The kids thought it was great and played in the mud the whole time. Can you think of any childhood past-time that's more fun than that?

How hot is this man!!!?

Katie was great and slept the entire time.

(can life get better than this?)

Josie caught the first bass.

I caught the second.

Josie caught another one & then Madi caught the fourth one of the day.

We saved the bass & threw the rest back. When Roy got home he got the pleasure of cleaning and gutting the fish with Carson. The then breaded and fried them. They were quite tastey.

On day two, we went to the big pond. Carson had the first catch &, lucky him, it was a catfish.

This day wan't quite as fun, but we still had a good time. The reason it wasn't as fun as day one: we were already tired, the fish weren't biting as well, it was very hot, and there were ticks. (the big pond is in a very wooded area)

All in all we had a great time. We can't wait to go again!

Spring has Sprung!

2011-04-05T20:15:00.003-07:00

So we got hair cuts!

(well, the kids did)

Before

After

Before

After

I just liked this picture.

Fun with Family

2011-03-31T07:01:00.008-07:00

First of all, I'm a terrible blogger. Sorry.

Because of that, here is the catch-up on the fun we've been having now that we live close to family.

First, A BIG Thanks goes to my sister, Josie! She came to stay with me this whole week after my surgery. I have ejoyed having her here & I know my kids have as well.

Now for our fun catch-up. It has really been fun living close to my family. Carson and I have got to know my brother and his wife a lot better and we are enjoying spending time with them. They also have a son 1 day younger than Cal. It's pretty fun to have cousins play together. In these next few pictures we went shooting skeet and rode our 4wheeler around with Nate & Brandi. It was pretty fun.

Another fun thing, is that Brandi & Gibs along with me & my kids all fit in a minivan with their Grammy. So we have been able to take a few outings while Carson is gone. It's been pretty fun & I look forward to the more to come. (I believe the zoo is on our upcoming list. HURRAY!)

These next pictures are from the children's science museum in OKC. We had a pretty great time. Madi still talks about it all the time & would go everyday if I let her.

Lastly, Grammy is getting so much fun grandma time, it's unbeleivable. I'm so greatful that I have a mother who loves to play with children as much as mine does. I always knew I had a great mother. I strive to be as good a mother as she. Now I see her as a grandmother with my children and am amazed all over again. Mom, you truely are the best. The most loving, wonderful, patient person I know. Thanks!

Will I miss you?

2011-03-29T06:51:00.002-07:00

As soon as I got there I knew you would leave. I went in alone. Trying to be brave. I waited and waited. Finally, I feel asleep, knowing that when I woke you would be gone. It so hard to wake up, but I had to get out of there. You were gone. There wasn't even a piece of you I could hold onto. Now I just sit here unable to clean my house, work in my garden, or care for my children. All I do is sit around and sleep. You've left a hole inside me. I will miss you gallbladder.

Green Eggs and Ham

2011-03-23T08:30:00.002-07:00

We had a pretty fun St. Patrick's Day.

We started out with Green Eggs & Ham.

We also painted our nails green. That evening we went to a St. Patrick's Day Party. We had a great time and enjoyed tons of green food & corned beef and cabbage. (my first time & I liked it).

Good Day

2011-03-07T21:21:00.003-07:00

Carson gave Katie her Baby Blessing yesterday. She looked beautiful. (she wore the same dress Madi wore. Mom made it of course) Carson gave her a name and a blessing along side Dad, Nate & Roy. It was pretty great. Carson has been able to bless all three of our children. Every blessing has been short, sweet and to the point. I love it. I get teary-eyed every time. And Carson makes fun of me for it every time.After church, the whole fam (that was here) came over and we had Josie's birthday dinner. It was fun to have everyone in the kitchen. It felt like Thanksgiving to me. (It helped that we were having mashed potatoes) After everyone went there own ways, we were hanging out in the kitchen and Carson turned on The Cave by Mumford & Sons. We listened to it on repeat for about 15mins. while dancing in the kitchen. After this video, we put Katie down and Carson and I picked up our other 2 children. We all danced like crazy. Both Madi and Cal where laughing histarically. It has to be one of my favorite moments of all time!

I have three. It's still hard to believe, but I love it!

Hello, Katie Mae

2011-03-04T20:29:00.003-07:00

We are just loving her!

Even in the hard times.

What have we been up to?

2011-03-04T19:53:00.003-07:00

First, let me say that I have not been able to set up WiFi on my computer yet & it's making me crazy. My computer hook-up is in my bedroom, so I only get on it after the kids are asleep. However, having a new baby, as soon as they are asleep, so am I. Therefore, I have the internet, but rarely use it. LAME!

The main thing I've been doing is UNPACKING!

It looks much better than this now, but it felt like this to me for a long time.
Now that we are a little more settled, I pulled out my sewing machine for a little me time.

Baby Legs

If you are out of the loop on baby legs, click here. I didn't see a lot of use for them in Arizona, but now I definately must have them. They are great for under a cute summer dress in cold March weather. However, I'm not going to pay $12 a pair. So I learned how to make my own, here.
Then, I found these great socks at Target for $2 a pair. SWEET!

How do you not love them?!

We are also hanging out with family a lot! And that's about it

Catch Up

2011-02-04T15:52:00.008-07:00

Here is a quick catch up on our life while we didn't have the internet.

Halloween

Tractor Fun

Decorate the Christmas Tree

Went to a Cabin in Flagstaff

With some great friends and had great fun!

We Enjoyed Christmas

We made Madi a toy kitchen. It was great!

I made this cake for our Christmas dinner. The layers are... chocolate cake, cool whip, banana, caramel, coconut. DELICIOUS!

We Made It!

2011-01-31T10:40:00.002-07:00

We arrived at my parent's house last night at 11pm. Hurray, no more driving! Now we have to buckle down for the cold. It's supposed to be blizzard like for the next 2 days. We made it just in time!

Katie Mae

2011-01-18T11:06:00.003-07:00

Katie Mae was born on Jan. 12th. She was 8 lbs 5 oz and 21 in long. We are both doing great and enjoying having my mom in town for support. I will post pictures and update you on our little life in about 2 wks. Then, we will be living in Oklahoma and I will have internet access again. YEAH!!

Birthday, Birthday Everywhere

2010-10-17T19:53:00.004-07:00

\As I said in an earlier post we have 3 birthdays this month. We had a big cookout yesterday with a bunch of friends to celebrate all 3 at once. We had a great turn out and a lot of fun! I also made a huge dinosaur cake (at the request of Madi) for the celebration. Here are a few pictures of the cake and shindig. . .
The cake consisted of 1 1/2 strawberry cake mixes for the center and 1 1/2 chocolate cake mixes for the head, tail and legs.

What a SUPER "Super Saturday"

2010-10-17T19:30:00.004-07:00

We had our "Super Saturday" craft activity on Oct 17th. I think it went great! I made to toy roll-ups. One for each kid. I made a drawstring backpack for Madi and I also etched our last name on a casserole dish. I was there from begining to end and enjoyed myself the entire time!

Drawstring Bag

Cal's Roll-up

This one has 6 pockets. We use it for Matchbox cars.

My mom had a piece of fabric she put a little road map on a long time ago. I went ahead and made it into a mat to roll up with the cars.

Madi's Roll-up

This one has 4 pockets. We use it for a collection of toys . . . Little people, fairies, and My Little Ponies.

Halloween Costumes

2010-10-14T13:40:00.003-07:00

Since I fear not having the internet to post our costumes this year, here is what I have done so far. I'm a little sad to spoil the final project for those that will see them in person, but I want my parents to be able to see at least this much.

Beware the Brigade for Elephants!

Quiet Book

2010-10-14T13:05:00.006-07:00

My mom started making a quiet book when she was pregnant with my oldest sister (in the 70's). I happened to find it when I was at her house this summer. I asked her about it and she said I could have it. Mind you, I'm no where near the sewing guru she is. In fact, I'm an Dopey (for SnowWhite) and she's Einstin when it comes to sewing. Anyway, I added a few pages and put the entire book together. Here is my finished project.

Quiet Book Cover

(I bound and covered the book)

Numbers Page

Each pocket has the corresponding number inside.

(I made this one)

Hair Page

You can do the girls hair. Hair ties and bows go in the heart pocket on her shirt.

(I made this one)

Cowboy Page

The cactus comes off.

(mom made this one)

Apple Tree

Apples come off and can go in the basket.

(mom made this one)

Lace up Girl

You can lace up and tie the girl's dress. Also, the bird comes off.

(I just added the shoe lace)

Horse Page

Both the sun and horse come off.

(mom made this one)

Egg Page

The chick can come in and out of the egg.

(Mom made this one)

Bear Page

This page has 2 pockets. One for pens and one for paper.

(Mom made the bear, I just added the ribbon)

Flower Page

You can remove the watering can and the flower petals.

(I just added the buttons)

Mailbox Page

You can put letters or pictures drawn into the mailbox.

(Mom designed it I just cut out the peices and put it together)

Street Sign Shapes

Each sign can be removed and put onto another page with a road map.

(mom had the stop sign done, I did the rest. I want to write the shape name under each one. Still not finished I guess)

Fishing Pond

Each fish can be removed from it's pocket. It has a magnet attached to it's mouth and also a magnet at the end of the fishing pole.

(Madi loves this one. It was all me)

Road Map

The cars come off and can go into the garage. There are random velcro spots for street signs or cars.
(mom made the road and teplates for the cars and garage. I love this one)

Best Campout Ever

2010-10-14T12:42:00.004-07:00

A group of about 5 couples went camping last weekend. We were lucky enough to be invited. We went up north, by Prescott. It got pretty cold at night (freezing to Arizonians), we didn't get much sleep, I got a little sunburned, feared the rath of a skunk who kept wondering into our camp, and I came home completely beaten up and wiped out.

It was the best time ever!

We got to know people in our ward better, shared hillarious and embrassing stories, ate fabulous food,

rode quads (not me due to prego),

hung out relaxing,

the kids played great together,

(Yes, that is a tooth you see in Cal's mouth. He went from 0-4 in a month)

and even did a little shopping.

I don't know about everyone else that went, but Carson and I had a GREAT TIME! and can't wait to do it again.

Thanks for the fun!

Life Without the Internet

2010-10-14T12:03:00.004-07:00

I thought our internet was turned off the other day & we were finally going to have to live without it. However, today,1 week later, it worked again. We are however going to be losing our internet, so if you don't hear from me for a while, or you email me and get no response, then it's happened. Internet no more.

Since we were without it for a week. Here is a little catch up to what we've been doing. . .

Peaching It Up

I recieved my annual 32lbs of peaches this year. I made some into jame and the rest into pie/cobbler filling. One word . . .

YUM!

Birthdays

We also have been celebrating a month full of birthdays! Carson, Cal, and Madi all have a birthday in October. I decided instead of trying to make 3 parties, we would have one big cookout of all three. Besides, Cal turned 1, Madi turned 3, and Carson turned 31, so I only need to get a #3 and a #1 candle. Sweet!

I still felt it important to make the actual birthday special, so I made Carson a birthday dinner and a blueberry pie.

We actually went camping on Cal's birthday(see the "Best Campout Ever" post). So he got a store bought cake when we got back. Don't worry I'm making a huge dinosaur cake for the cookout (as per Madi's request)

Grammy also sent presents for everyone. Here they are enjoying them. Thanks again, Grammy!

If we still have the internet, I'll post pictures of the dino cake and Madi's actual birthday, but who knows when it will go.

2010-09-30T21:40:00.002-07:00

(not our actual stairs)
Today Cal climbed the stairs. He went from not being able to get on one, to climbing all of ours in a few minutes. (I think we have around 15 or so) I was working on our halloween costumes (I'm excited about them) and realized he had disappeared. I found him 3/4 of the way up the stairs. I let him get to the top before I took him back downstairs to play. He was pretty happy.

Marathon Man

2010-09-23T14:20:00.003-07:00

(Taken at the park before the race. Hence, the smile.)

We just got back from a trip to Utah and Idaho. The main reason for the trip was that Carson ran the "Top of Utah" marathon on Saturday. It's up in Cache Valley, Utah. I can't express in words how proud I am of him.

I dropped him off at a park at 5am. From there he caught a bus up Blacksmith Canyon to the starting line. I wasn't able to see him until around the 14 mile mark. (that's when they came out of the canyon) I actually didn't see him until around the 16 mile mark. I had to walk down about 1 mile with both kids to try and find him. (and of course I forgot the stroller.) We cheered him on and jogged by him for a few yards. Then I had to stop since I'm pregnant and was carrying Cal on my shoulders. I told him we'd see him at the finish line.

Madi and Cal were pretty wiped out from walking in the sun all day and not getting enough nap time. I bought Madi a soda at the finish line to try and cheer her up a bit. This is the face she made when I told her to show me her soda.

Cal was also pretty wiped out. He only wanted to be held.

My sister came up from Wyoming and sat with the kids for me. Starting at the finish line, I walked the runners path to find Carson. When I caught up with him, he told me he didn't stop running for the first 20 miles. At mile 21 he stopped and asked the first aid for some Icy Hot for his leg. Once he got that on, he got up to keep going and feel over on their truck. They immediately told him he was dehydrated and made him drink a bunch of gatorade and water. At the next drink station he drank a ton of water and couldn't get himself running any more. He ended up walking the rest of the way in. His time was roughly 6hrs 58min. I'm very proud of him and look forward to the day we can run a marathon together.

Random

2010-09-23T13:55:00.004-07:00

I realized it's been a while since I uploaded my camera. Here's a quick veiw of what we've been up to.

Running around the house.

Cal has become a speed racer in his walker. Madi will either ride her tricycle and they hase each other around the kitchen or she rides on the back of Cal. (strength training)

Keeping cool.

We turned on the sprinkler, but I didn't want Cal to sit there and eat the grass. (which he always does) So I put the walker outside. They thought this was pretty fun.

New Clothes

I caved and bought the kids new fall clothes. I couldn't get over how big they looked to me.

Baking

I made this yummy Jello Cake for a Young Women's lesson. It was delicious.

I used the leftover fruit to make the best breakfast. Cal had his first blueberry pancakes with strawberry and cool whip topping. Delicious!

Goin' Country

2010-09-23T13:34:00.004-07:00

Carson and I decided it would be fun to go shooting a few weekends ago. We just go out into the desert and target shoot. We all put our boots on and got ready to go.

"Stick 'em up" fingers that is.

Yes, that is a pink cap gun sticking out of Madi's pocket. Carson was wearing a holster & Madi has to be like daddy.

Camera Fun

2010-09-12T17:24:00.002-07:00

We went a little crazy with the webcam today!

Can you believe this is still us?

Have a Great Day!

Bring on the Hair Bows

2010-08-31T11:18:00.001-07:00

We are having a girl.

Due Jan. 28, 2011

Craft Project

2010-08-24T20:57:00.004-07:00

My friend's son is turning 2 & is into trains. I decided to try and jazz up a shirt for him. It was my first time to attempt this, so here are the steps I took.

Here's the shirt I bought. I couldn't find a blank one, so this is what I had to work with.

Here is the pattern I made and fabric I cut out.

I added an iron on adhessive to the fabric and ironed it in place.

I did the same thing with to #2. I figured it would be better to be a 2 than a 6.

Then, I stitched it all down.

I'm pretty happy with how it turned out. There are some flaws, but I like it.

There and Back

2010-08-18T14:56:00.014-07:00

Carson bought some 2-Day Passes to Sea World San Diego from a guy he works with. We decided to go this week since Carson starts school next Tuesday. We left at 4am Monday morning.

We got to Sea World at 11am and began our day of fun.

First, we saw the sea lions
When we left the sea lion exhibit, Cal cried. He wanted to see more.
So, we went over to the SLL (seal lions live) show. Perfect timing.

Then, we headed to the Shark Encounter. I couldn't have been more happy! I've always wanted to see a real shark. Not just those wimpie sharks.

They had a tank that you could go under the sharks as they were swimming. It was great!

I don't know if this was an actual mouth or a replica, but it is the size of a shark from around dinosaur times. (I believe)

Next we went to the dolphin show. I didn't get too many pictures of it, because we sat in the soak zone. And we did get soaked!

The last show we saw on Day 1 was the Shamu show, "Believe". It was pretty good. Lots of splashing and jumping. The kids were starting to get pretty tired. We actually had to wake Madi up for this show.

I believe there were 4 killer whales.

We decided to stop by the beach on the way to our hotel. That way we would know where to go in the morning. Madi and Cal thought it was the greatest thing.

Let day 2 begin!

I had to keep a close eye on this one. He kept eating the sand. GROSS! He would cry when I'd take it out of his mouth.

Cal loved the water, at least for the 1st hour.

Madi was having so much fun with her bucket and shovel, she didn't even want to stop for a picture.

This was my first visit to a beach in the United States (I've been to Vina del Mar in Chile). I don't think it could have been a better experience.

The Pacific Ocean. Ocean Beach, San Diego, California.

This picture doesn't show his poor sun burn very clearly. We have a spray-on sun screen, therefore I have to apply it to my hands, then his face. I rubbed it on his cheeks and then his forehead and nose area. I guess it all wiped off my hands onto his cheeks. Poor kid. He had a "V" shaped sunburn after day 1.

No burning here. Just beautiful tan. Lucky Skunk!

Lunch at El Pollo Loco. Beach done, back to Sea World!

We left one of Madi's shoes on the beach. I only packed her one pair. Luckily, she needed new shoes anyway. Unfortunately, we were forced to buy them on vacation.

We were a little concerned Madi would be scared of the life/adult-sized Elmo and Ernie. Boy were we wrong. Carson set her down & she ran to Ernie and gave him the biggest hug. No hesitation what so ever. She immediately hugged Elmo the same.

She was so happy to see them.

Cal and I had to wait and watch while Carson and Madi rode some rides. I'm prego and he was too little to ride.

Elmo's FLying Fish. Madi is on the inside. Carson went on 2 rides with Madi.

Live Sesame Street Characters, singing.

Penguins. If you've ever seen "Happy Feet", their habitat, when he was at the zoo, looked exactly the same.

Polar Bears. At least one of these 2 is pregnant. This is going to be the "birthing cave" so the sign said.

Walrus, this guy was MASSIVE!

Beluga Whale

Giant Pacific Octopus

Jelly Fish

A Madi, who was ready to be done.

Star Fish

Not exactly sure what this was. Star fish gone crazy or something!

We kept cool with delicious treats!

The dolphin show, "Blue Horizons," was worth watching twice. It was even better the 2nd time.

Two days of fun, well spent!

Best Trip EVER!

Rainy Day = Adventure

2010-07-31T15:50:00.003-07:00

We were greeted by a huge rain storm this afternoon. Madi thought it was the greatest thing to play in. It had wonderful, huge drops and everything. It was warm, but not hot. It also cooled us down to about 70-80 degrees. Fabulous! Well, it caused everything around us to flood temporarily. It brought out tons of frogs... or toads.

We decided to go on a hunt. We walked around in the ankle deep water and found at least 5 frogs. We also found where they were gathering and making a huge ruckess. What fun!

True Happiness

2010-07-28T06:41:00.001-07:00

We went to the Children's Museum of Phoenix while Lolly was here. The kids had a great time. Here's the proof . . .

Bennion Family Reunion

2010-07-20T06:57:00.005-07:00

(this is the shirt from the reunion)

Our Bennion (my mom's side) Reunion was cram packed with fun activities. Unfortunately my camera died and I didn't get a lot of pictures.

First and most importantly, I learned how to make my great grandmother's fudge. I'm pretty excited about this one. I wasn't able to eat any due to my gallstone situation. Carson and the kids verified it turned out fabulous by inhaling 1/2 the batch in just a few minutes. I'll have to make some soon as to not forget everything.

We also had a pie bake-off. What a fun thing. I think we ended up with 15 different kinds of pie. Mine didn't win, but Carson tells me it was delicious. (I made Paula Dean's chocolate toffee pie, the 4th pie down)

The entire reunion was 1940's theme. They played old games, held a family pinewood derby, and had 1940's makeovers. I wish I would have got some pictures of my cousins makeovers. Their makeup and hair were perfect.

The other "super" fun thing we did, was have a "Super Hero Day." Being that we literally moved 4 days prior to this trip, I wasn't able to prepare to much for my kids costumes. For Madi, we pulled out some old scarves at my mom's & they turned out great!

For Cal, my sister-in-law, Brandielle, has 2 onsies for her son, Gibs. She was nice enough to let Cal borrow one for the day. Cal was Batman while Gibs was Superman.

The super heros gathered outside and played old games like Simon Says and Red Rover. They also had a great battle consisting of marshmellow guns. (PVC pipe used tyo shot mini marshmellows at each other)

All in all it was a great runion.

"Happy Owl Birthday"

2010-07-19T21:49:00.003-07:00

We made these fabulous cupcakes for my sister's birthday. It was great fun! And the cake was chocolate while the frosting was peanut butter and cream cheese! DELICIOUS!

I hope you had a Happy Birthday, Lolly. We loved having you here!

We Love You!

Fishing

2010-07-19T21:25:00.006-07:00

(Josie's House. Isn't it pretty. I know, everyone wishes they had one. We do.)

Carson was all about "fish" on our trip to Oklahoma. He wanted to make sure he was able to take Madi out to eat fish and he want to make sure he got to take her fishing. So, there was a "guys afternoon out." All the boys and Madi went to a hole-in-the-wall fish and steak shack. All the girls went to Panera Bread Co. Yum! Yum!

Then while at Josie's, we spent one whole day fishing in her pond. It turned out to be a blast! And those of us that stuck it out the whole day got toasted, even though it was cloudy.

At first we weren't catching anything, until Carson ditched the store bought fake bait and caught a grasshopper. Instant success! He had the first catch of the day. What a rush of excitement.

Carson later caught a large mouth bass.

We now knew what the fish would eat. So we set down our poles and went grasshopper hunting. The funniest part was that Carson took off his shirt and used it to try to catch grasshoppers. It worked twice.

Once we had our bait, I immediatly caught my first fish! I was so excited! I've been fishing one other time that I can think of and I only caught one fish. In this one day, I caught 6 fish! It was so fun!

We even convinced my dad to come out to the pond for a little bit and he caught one as well.

Madi ended up catching quite a few fish, but she didn't want to get to close to them. I don't blame her, I didn't want to either.

It was a pretty fun day at Josie's we ended it with a bang... literally. Carson lit off a bunch of fireworks.

Fun with Family

2010-07-19T21:06:00.002-07:00

So we, about 1 week ago, got back from a trip to Oklahoma and Missouri. We spent much time with my family and had a fabulous time. First, we met my sister Laura (Aunt Lolly) in Flagstaff. She then rode with us all the way to Oklahoma. It was great fun!

Once in Oklahoma, we got to spend time wuth my immediate family. Not everyone, but those I don't get to see very often.

This is Gibs and Cal. Gibs is my brothers son. He was born the day after Cal. What fun for cousins. I also was one day apart from a cousin. We were best friends growing up.

We only stayed at my parents' house a few days. Then we were off to my sister's (Josie) house. She lives roughly 1/2 way between my parents' and grandparents' house. We were at here house for 2 nights and had super fun. (see the fishing post for details). After Josie's, we headed to Missouri for a huge family reunion. (it was my mom's side of the family) We had a great time and got to see tons people.

After the reunion, we headed for home. Lolly came back to our house, where we got to celebrate her birthday (see the owl post) and have a fun outing.

We had such a fun vavcation! Now back to the real world, cooking and cleaning, oh yeah, and unpacking.

It rained almost everyday we were gone. We loved it. We endured the bugs and humitity. While we loved and lounged in the rain and greenery. It's true that you don't realize what you had until it's gone. We miss the green.

MOVED!!

2010-06-28T17:52:00.002-07:00

We finally moved this weekend. I'm now in the process of unpacking and getting internet at the new house. We currently only have it at the old house and we will only have the keys for 2 more days. Drat! We might be cut off for a while.

Produce Coop

2010-06-19T09:02:00.001-07:00

All of this for $15! Can you ask for anything more? I don't think so.

Father's Day Craft

2010-06-19T08:52:00.002-07:00

I decided to make Carson a Father's Day craft. I told him he had to put it up at his work no matter how sissy he thought it was.

Fortunately, he said he loves it. Or he's just that much more of a great dad and husband.

This is actually a piece of wood and the letters are wood also. I was able to get everything from Hobby Lobby for under $10. Hurray!

Such A Hard Life He Lives

2010-06-18T08:18:00.002-07:00

Cal has refused to crawl forward. He rolls and pivots to get everywhere he needs to be. So, for the last week I've been working with him. I have to put something he really wants in front of him and then keep him from rolling over while trying ot get it. Here is the progress we've made so far. . .

I don't blame him for being grumpy. It's hard to drag 23 lbs across the floor this those little arms.

Safety First

2010-06-18T08:10:00.002-07:00

We were packing up the garage and the kids were playing with everything we found. Madi decided it was a good idea to put on a helmet while she rode her "bike" down the block.

This is how she left her bike when she was done. I love it.

Cal loved it too.

2010-06-11T11:12:00.002-07:00

BOZO

People

2010-06-11T11:04:00.003-07:00

Madi drew her first people today. How exciting! I was honored that she said this is

"mommy"

She then proceeded to draw

"Daddy"
and then
"Cal"

I love it! She's at such a fun age right now!

Moving!

2010-06-10T19:14:00.002-07:00

So we are moving again in about 2 weeks. And as much as I love the house we are moving into, I've decided I hate the moving process. Don't get me wrong, I love being able to go through our stuff and de-junk it. However, I get all excited about moving, then I have to sit on my hands. I'm the kind of person that will pack up everything way too early. Then we end up living out of boxes anywhere from 1-3weeks. I feel like I've done really good this time. I've paced myself. Things we don't use everyday are packed, however, I want to pack it ALL . . . Today! It's starting to make me crazy.

Here's the house we are moving into. Like I said, I'm pretty excited!

My Eventful Weekend

2010-06-05T15:15:00.005-07:00

So, I've been in the hospital since Friday morning, roughly 4:30am. I'm still here & they "might" release me tomorrow. Cross your fingers!

What happened you ask. . .

Well in about Feb-Mar. I was diagnoised with gallstones. The doctor and surgeon both recommended surgery to remove my gallbladder. No problem, but after doing research online and talking to my mother (who also has gall stones) I thought I would try to monitor what I ate and see if I could live with it. At least for a little while. The surgeon told me it would have to be a fat free diet & if I ever had a fever after an attack to go to the ER.

Well after a few more attacks I decided we would get my gallbladder removed. However, at the time we were trying to buy a house & needed all the extra cash we could get. So surgery was going to be scheduled in June. No problem right . . . wrong.

About midnight Friday morning I woke up having an attack. No fun, but It wasn't the most painful attack I'd ever had. So I was hanging out and sleeping off and on through the pain (stabbing below the right side of my rib cage). Well at roughly 4am I went back to bed and tossed and turned. I asked Carson if I had a fever because I was freezing. Next thing you know I am as pail as a ghost and the world keeps getting fuzzy. I laid down and felt better shortly. This happened twice then I went to the bathroom and threw-up 3 times. Since I don't throw-up very often (1-2x every 2-4 yrs) I decided this was considered an "emergency" attack & we should go to the hospital. Normally they would have done surgery and taken out my gallbladder, however I am in the 1st trimester of my 3rd pregnancy and surgery isn't an option unless it's life or death. (you read it right. I'm due in the end of Jan) So, since I put off surgery I might not be able to get it until after I have the baby. However, if I keep having attacks along with pacreatitis, they will try surgery in the 2nd trimester.

So, I was diagniosed with pacreatitis and they have kept me in the hosptial for roughly 36 hours. I asked if they would let me go home today and they said no. At least they finally let me eat something. - jello, chicken broth, fruit ice aka popscile in a cup, apple juice and water. (by the way, I feel just fine. I have no pain other than a headache from laying in bed for 2 days straight.)
The doctor said my numbers are coming down, but he want to keep me here another night. Maybe he will let me go home tomorrow. I sure do hope so!

We had a fun weekend planned for Wet N' Wild. I guess that will have to wait. Instead, I guess I will enjoy the rest and try to ingore all the shots and blood being drawn.

HURRAY FOR JELLO!

ABC's

2010-05-31T19:11:00.002-07:00

Madi is starting to write letters. She wanted to write my name.

Her letters go . . . R L A E H C

After that we worked on her just writing the alphabet. We only got to J before she was bored with it. Here are a few of her letters . . .

H and I

F
B

Great Finds!

2010-05-31T18:42:00.004-07:00

A week or two ago, I went to Hobby Lobby in search of chicken decor for my kitchen. Everything I found was 50-66% off! What a steal of a deal!

I love this basket! Once we get some chickens of our own, I'll use it to collect eggs.

This is a recipe box. It currently hold Madi's flash cards.

This is one of my favorites. I decided to use it to hold my aprons. (Instead of keeping them in a box in my pantry.)

My other favorite. This is actually a candle holder. I have a tealight in it.

Last but not least, my tin sign. I love it!

This I found on craigs list. For $20! That's right $20! It's missing the glass from the front doors and I need to replace the back board, but I don't care! It's roughly 5 1/2 ft long and fabulous!

Funny Kid

2010-05-30T20:54:00.002-07:00

We went to a baptism for a new convert yesterday. I told Madi a little about what it means to get baptized before we got there. When the young man was about to get baptized, this is the conversation between her and her dad . . .

Carson : When you get older, you can get baptized.

Madi : (with a twinkle in her eye and excitment in her voice) Yeah! I'll get a lot of bad guys!

What a funny girl! How did I get so blessed?

Ready for Summer

2010-05-17T11:21:00.003-07:00

This morning, at breakfast, Carson says, " I think it's time for Madi to get a summer haircut."

Here is her before and after. . .

What do you think?

My Day

2010-05-11T17:16:00.006-07:00

This is what I did last Tuesday. . .

I made bread.

I made Cake Pops.

Madi loved making these.

Actually, I just started making cake pops. We finished them as a Young Womens activity. The girls gave them to their mom's as a bouquet for Mother's Day. They turned out pretty great!

Last but not least, I made lemon bars.

I've never made them before, so I was pretty excited.
We were given some HUGE lemons. No kidding they were the size of grapefruits. One lemon produced 1/2 C. of lemon juice.

It was definately a baking day. I love it!

Mother's Day Drive-In

2010-05-11T17:00:00.002-07:00

So, per my request, Saturday night we went to the drive-in movie. It was my Mother's Day request. I don't know about anyone else, but I love the drive-in! I knew Madi would love it too.

Of course we took the truck. We have an air-mattress that is made to go in the back of the truck. So with that we put a few blankets, couch cushions, and a few pillows. It was great!

Also, it was a double feature! We got to watch "How to train your Dragon" and Clash of the Titans". Mind you we didn't get home until midnight, but it was worth it.

I LOVE THE DRIVE-IN!

I Just Love Them!

2010-04-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

Summer Fun in April

2010-04-30T07:06:00.003-07:00

We have a super fun play group. This last week we ventured into the water to beat the heat.

The kids loved it.

Buildin' Fence and Drivin' Tractors

2010-04-27T21:54:00.004-07:00

For the last few weekends we've been helping some friends put up a new fence. I've never built a fence before, but Carson's done it a million times. 2 or 3 weekends ago we pounded posts. Last weekend we put up the chain-link part. (I don't know if it has a specific name. Like I said I've never built one before) My hands were super sore the next day, but I liked being outside and the work wasn't too bad. The hardest part was trying to work and still be mom. (watching Madi and tending Cal) We used a tractor to pull the fence tight. Madi sure loved riding in it. It's all she wanted to do. I think there is still more fence that needs to go up, so we will probably be out there again next weekend while the weather's still nice.

Red Ryder

2010-04-27T21:51:00.001-07:00

The newest and favorite addition to Madi's life.

(just ignore that basket of laundry)

Madi loves Snow White

2010-04-27T21:41:00.003-07:00

The other day I was folding the laundry & I noticed her sitting on the baskets.

What are you doing, I asked.

Madi: I'm Grumpy.

That's when I realized she had gone outside and got a piece of grass (or weed) and had it in her mouth.

It was then I realized she was pretending to be Grumpy from Snow White. If you watch Disney's Snow White, you will notice when the seven dwarfs go out to wash, for a brief moment they show Grumpy sitting on a stump. He puts a blade of wheat in his mouth and folds his arms as he refuses to wash. How funny a girl is Madi?! I love it. I have found her sitting & pretending to be Grumpy a few times since.

Pat's Run

2010-04-17T21:48:00.005-07:00

So we had another race. It was called Pat's Run, in honor and memory of Pat Tillman. 19,698 runners and 8 wheelchair racers finished the race. However they said there were 24,000 people there in the race. CRAZY! We ran 4.2 miles and ended on the 42 yard line at Sun Devils Stadium. It was so absolutely crazy and crowded with people. I loved it! Carson ran a time of 44:35. Overall he came in 9,713th place and 1,938 out of 2,964 30-39yr old males. I'd say that's pretty good. I finished with a time of 44:13. Overall I came in 9,456th place and 1,281 out of 2,959 20-29yr old females. So through all the numbers, we finished in the faster half of people! YEAH! All in all, we had a great time. I thonk next year we will take the kids.

Sewing Diapers

2010-04-16T06:31:00.003-07:00

Since I decided to use cloth diapers, I needed to build up my stash. I really didn't want to spend $200-$300 to do so either. There's no way I could convince Carson this was cheaper when I needed that much money. So I started to make some of my own. I got a great pattern from my sister and one from my mom. I first took an old flannel sheet we had and made a few that still need covers.

They turned out pretty good. Now I just need to make some more covers. (I only have one right now.) Then I ordered some great fabric off line and made my first AIO (all in one). It turned out FABULOUS!

I was supposed to use snaps, but I don't have a snap press. I also didn't want to buy one if I won't be using it for more than just this. So we'll see if I end up getting one or not. However, velcro seems to work just fine.

It fits great, except for maybe a little tight on his waist. I'll have to make a few adjustments.

Don't you just love the butter cream color.

Baby Shoes

2010-04-10T16:01:00.002-07:00

I bought Cal his first pair of shoes. (other than newborns, but they don't count)

I've had my eyes on these baby's since I found out I was having a boy.
Today I noticed they were on sale. The also fit great!

Hurray for cute, great deals!

While I was making dinner,

2010-04-10T15:52:00.001-07:00

Sisters

2010-04-10T15:41:00.003-07:00

I must say, there's not a whole lot better in this world than sister!

(at least not better than my sisters)

My sister Laura (Lolly) had a layover in Phoenix 2 weeks ago. We were lucky enough to spend 2 hours with her in the airport.

She is a kindergarten teacher and great with children of all ages. She's super, crazy fun! I wish she lived closer. (she lives in SLC area)
Let's not forget to mention how fabulous she looks. She's lost at least 30 lbs since January! And that's right boys, she's available!

I loved spending even just a few hours with her.

Like I said, not much better than sisters.

That's My Girl

2010-03-30T22:25:00.002-07:00

I must say this is one of my favorite pictures of Madi. This is her mid-tickle laugh.

Yes, she is soaking wet from running through the sprinklers. It's that warm here.

How did I get blessed with such a pretty and fun daughter? I may never know.

Fresh Ripe Tomatoes

2010-03-30T22:21:00.002-07:00

Carson planted at least 5 tomato plants when we moved in. We have been getting plenty of tomatoes for a while now. Carson has made quite a few batches of delicious salsa (as seen above). I also used some to make possibly the best tomato sauce I've ever eaten for dinner tonight.

HURRAY FOR TOMATOES!

Funny Kids

2010-03-30T22:12:00.002-07:00

Cal loves watching Madi. She makes him laugh all the time. It's great!

The other day she put this scrap fabric and hat on his head.

She then proceeded to put totes on their heads. (He didn't like that so much.)

(And yes, Katie, she is, once again, wearing no pants. She lives the life!)

My Little Man

2010-03-30T22:00:00.003-07:00

Cal is getting HUGE! He will be 6 months on the 8th of April. I don't know where the time went. Here are some fun pictures I found in my camera.

He loves bouncing. The other day I put him in here while I mowed the lawn. I was outside for only a few minutes. I came in to find him sleeping.

This is the face (below) he always make when he is happy to see me. I love it!!! It was pretty hard to get this picture. Every time I took a picture he stopped making this face, due to the flash. It was pretty funny.

Craft City!

2010-03-29T15:54:00.005-07:00

So I've been wanting to make some crafts lately. So here's what I made . . .

These are tiles. (the cheap ones from home depot.) They're about 4x4 in.

A friend of our's took these pictures of Madi when she was 5mo. old. I love them.

I'll use these as decoration on the wall in Madi's room, or something like that.

Next . . .
I've been working on these blocks forever. They've been a stop and go project whenever I have time. I knit each side a different stitch and color. This is the first one I finished. The picture doesn't do it justice. It's pretty cool. Cal loves it, too!

Finally . . .

I'm still working on this one, I'm making Madi an alaphabet folder. This way she can keep all her letters in it. I'm also going to make some kind of board where we can try to spell words and learn to read.

The letters are simply held in with velcro. I'm pretty excited to finish this one.

New Favorite Blog

2010-03-24T13:26:00.003-07:00

So I stayed up way to late and spent too much time today looking at my new favorite blog . . .

Crafty Chicks

I want to do so many of their crafts. I can't wait to find the time to make some of these fun crafts. Also it's given me great ideas for this year's Super Saturday.

Race Day

2010-03-14T12:37:00.003-07:00

We ran our 2nd 10K relay yesterday. It was pretty fun.

I ran the 1st leg and finished with a time of 28:17. Carson ran the 2nd leg. His time was 31:28.

I think our next run is in about 1 month. It's going to be 4.2 miles. Let the training begin.

Cloth Diapers

2010-03-12T18:47:00.005-07:00

(No, this isn't Cal. This baby is much too skinny.)

So, I have decided to try my way with cloth diapers. I'm not all crazy save the earth or anything. I just figure I could do my part to try and cut back on costs. I mean, every time Madi has an accident I'm pretty much cleaning a cloth diaper. I think for a little while I'll try to use them part-time, at least until I get the hang of it.
It was a little over whelming when I first starting looking online about cloth diapers. It was as if it was a whole new world. It's not just "disposable or cloth." There are tons of different kind of cloth diapers. So I decided to get a cloth diaper sampler and figure out what I like best. I also have been given a few patterns to make my own diapers. They don't look that hard. I'm really excited to try this & a little nervous, but mostly excited. They should arrive in 5-10 days . . . we'll see how it goes!

What's important to me...

2010-02-23T12:05:00.003-07:00

It's funny whats important to a child . . .

. . . like picking dad's green tomatoes . . .

. . . and wearing sassy red boots . . .

. . . pants are optional.

5K

2010-02-20T13:44:00.004-07:00

Carson and I ran our first 5K this morning! Actually, it was a 10K relay. Carson ran the first leg. His time was 30:28 min. I'm very proud of him! I ran the second leg. My time was 29:29.

We didn't place or anything like that, but we are super excited about our times, being that it was our first ran. The team that won ran it in 35 min. (CRAZY! that's 17min a peice)
We are running another one on March 13th. I can't wait!

The Love of My Life

2010-02-14T21:07:00.003-07:00

(Snowboarding for my birthday 2006)

Carson is more perfect for me than I could have ever imagined! He is funny, smart, caring, and good looking.

(Halloween 2005)

We have been married for 5 years now (Dec. 30th) And we have had our share of rough times, but we have pulled through.

(riding bareback at Jo's)

Carson has made me be a better person. Because of him I am more confident. He always makes me feel beautiful. He is patient with me as well. I love that we can talk about anything. Carson truely is my best friend.
I love him!

I'm a country boy . . .

2010-02-01T20:44:00.002-07:00

Carson bought a roping dummy for Madi to play with, but Cal took to it faster than she did.
Those are genuine carharts. (Thanks to Grandma Jo). Every real country boy should have at least one pair.

Best Friends

2010-02-01T20:36:00.002-07:00

Madi is loving having Cal around.She is a great big sister.

I can't imagine anything better than this.

Mustache . . .

2010-01-09T21:34:00.002-07:00

What a fun day . . .

2010-01-08T20:51:00.002-07:00

Cal is starting to be awake and alert much more now. I decided to take a bunch of pictures of him yesterday. In a few pictures he has his fists up. He does this when he's happy. I call him my little boxer.

New Hair... Again

2010-01-04T09:21:00.003-07:00

Carson asked me to grow out my hair. I've had it short for quite a while now. So I decided I needed to remove the blonde. I went to get it done with my sister, Lolly, in Utah. She had a fun time trying to keep an eye on Madi.

Here is my hair in 3 different lightings.

Christmas Vacation

2010-01-04T08:36:00.004-07:00

So we went to Montana for Christmas... we drove.

On Christmas Eve we left at about 11am. We drove up to Salt Lake City and stayed the night at my cousin's house. We joined in on their Christmas morning.

This is Phoenix and Cal. Phoenix was born in July & Cal was born in October.

Impressive size, Cal.

Madi got a Barbie for Christmas and loved it.

After breakfast we took off and headed to Montana. Between stops, feedings, and a flat tire we spent 12+ hours traveling both days.

Carson had lots of things he wanted to make sure we let Madi do while on the ranch... feed the cows, ride a horse, play in the snow.

Well, we decided to ride a sled being pulled behind a 4-wheeler. Carson drove and I held Madi on the sled. The snow was pretty hard, but we were having a blast. Then Carson turned right as we hit a bump.

Madi and I tipped right over. Unfortunately, I rolled right over Madi & smashed her face into the hard ice-like snow. When I picked her up her mouth pooled with blood. I started to take her back to the house. When I looked at her again, her entire bottom 1/2 of her face was smeared with blood. I went into panic mode & started running all the way back to the house. (we were out in the field)

Once we got her cleaned up, it turned out to be a fairly shallow scratch across her check and her upper lip was scratched up pretty good. She looked pretty beat up because she had road rash and was puffy and swollen.

On Sunday, Dec. 27th, Carson gave Cal his baby blessing. It was pretty special because all 6 of Carson's siblings and their families were there.

The blessing was great. I was already weepy during the blessing, then Carson started to cry. I started sobbing. Cal is named after Carson's dad, who passed away when Carson was 11. I'm pretty sure that is part of the reason why he got emotional, but the spirit was very strong as well.

Madi had a great time playing with all her cousins. These are the "naked savages" getting ready to eat a big feast.

The rest of the trip was spent hanging out with family and friends. We really enjoyed ourselves & loved seeing everyone.

Family Pictures

2009-12-14T08:11:00.004-07:00

My friend Stacy got her friend to take some pictures of our family with our newest addition. These are some of my favorites.

Sleep

2009-12-14T08:04:00.003-07:00

Hurray!

Cal slept from 9:30pm to 5:15am.

If only he could do this every night.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-12-02T08:40:00.005-07:00

I turned 27 yesterday!

A big thanks goes out to my mom. She not only went through 9 months of pregnancy, but I came late. I was due on Thanksgiving, but came on the 1st of Dec. Then, I was a big baby... over 9 pounds. Then on top of all that, I wasn't an easy baby. Anytime I call my mom with a baby or child problem her response is, "that's just like you were." So, as a baby, I wouldn't eat well. I would gag myself and then puke big. (Cal does the same thing) I wouldn't sleep well and didn't want to be snuggled. Also, I hated my carseat. (I once screamed for 2 hours until I finally fell asleep-I believe) So, now with my new mother eyes, I believe birthdays should be a day to remember our mothers. And tell them thank you for carrying use, raising us, and putting up with us. Once again, Thanks mom!

Anyway, back to my birthday. I have the best husband! I had a pretty stinky birthday the 1st year we were together. To the point that I cried. Ever since, he's made it a point to make my birthday a special day. For the next 3 years he took me snowboarding. (even when we moved to Arizona). Then, he flew our friends in from out of town. Last year, he took me on a 2 night get away to Vegas without any kids. (we only had Madi at the time). This year, We got to go buy new garments. (Super wonderful gift!) He also bought be a bicycle and bike trailor. Now we can go out with the kids.

If you don't have one of these & like to ride bikes, I recommend it. We have had tons of fun on it already! And Madi loves it too.

He also bought me the new Mario game for our Wii. Also super fun.
We had german chocolate birthday cake. For anyone who doesn't know, birthday cake is very important to me. My mother did a great job making sure we had delicious cakes growing up, and occassionally they would be in fun shapes. My favorites was a swan shaped cake. It was covered in coconut. DELICIOUS!

All in all it was a great day!