Jake, Michelle, Carson, Grace & Carter

New Years Resolutions....2012

2012-01-02T12:55:00.000-08:00

I'd like to say that my life is so sweet that I don't NEED any resolutions this year...unfortunately, that is not exactly the case. Though my life IS pretty sweet, there is always room for improvement, right???

Ok, so here are my top 3 (if I write them down, I have to follow through :)

1. Be more patient - my kids and my husband will appreciate this one. I used to be pretty patient, but somehow that has faded away in recent years. I want to get back to that easy going person that is fun to be around.

2. Add more structure to our days - the kids are getting older and need to be able to count on certain things. Bedtime routines don't just naturally happen!

3. Make more time for myself - the hardest of all three!! This also doesn't happen naturally.

Oh, let's add a #4 for good measure...keep up with the blog. It has been fun to read over past posts and remember how much fun our family has had. I love my kids, husband, family and friends! Happy New Year to you all!!!

Carter James Anderson

2011-12-22T19:58:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know...I have dropped off the face of the blog. Oh well...time to pick back up and move forward.

First things first...Carter was born on Aug 31, 2011. He was 9 lbs 4 oz. I was induced on my due date, and it's a good thing...he was huge! I went in to be induced at 7am, got my room at 8, pitocin at 8:15, epidural at 9...7 pushes and he was here at 10:10am. Easy-peasy. He was (and still is) BEAUTIFUL! This picture was taken about 20 minutes after he was born.

Here are some things about his first 4 months with us...

-He doesn't cry for no reason. He's either hungry, tired, or needs to be changed.
-He's super slobbery. Sometimes I think he's a St Bernard disguised as a baby.
-He HATES a wet diaper. And he pees a LOT.
-He looks at Grace and Carson like they are super stars.
-Grandpa Anderson was the first to make him smile.
-He has dark hair.
-His eyes are still blue, but they are blue like Carson's were, not like Grace's. So I think they'll probably change.
-He LOVES the bath. He only cried during the first 3 or 4. Now he loves it!
-He hates Walmart. He has cried EVERY time I've taken him.
-He loves when Jake plays guitar. He studies Jake's hands and has been caught playing air guitar.
-He often sleeps with his eyes partially open...like his dad.
-He is a snuggler...and he's warm and chubby

I could go on and on and on....I LOVE HIM! I cannot imagine our family without him. He was the 4th greatest decision of my life.

love.

Wedgies...

2011-05-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note...

Jake gave Carson a wedgie this morning, so naturally Carson decided to go around the house giving us ALL wedgies (thanks dad)! When he got to Grace, I braced myself for a fight. Instead, she came up to me and excitedly said "mom, Carson pulled my pants up for me!!!".

I love them!!!

Its a BOY!!!

2011-03-31T20:15:00.000-07:00

In case you don't already know....we are expecting our third, and final, baby in August. I've kept it off Facebook for now, it just feels too personal for me to jot down in a random status update. As of today, we can officially stop calling him an "it". He is officially a HE and Carson is quite pleased! I could have sworn he was a she...until a couple weeks ago and the heartburn set in :/ then I second guessed myself! Jake was right all along (as he has pointed out SEVERAL times today). Grace got to go with us to the ultrasound while Carson was in preschool. When we picked him up, she said "we get a baby brother" and Carson jumped for joy (literally).

Anyway, we are very happy and excited to welcome this little boy in to our family. Yay!!

Jingle Bell Rock

2010-12-26T07:55:00.000-08:00

This year at the Anderson Christmas party, each family did a little skit. Luckily, Jake and Carson like to perform, so they took center stage. Grace and I played the jingle bells.

*As a side note, Grace's hairclip was falling out, so I put it in my hair and forgot it was there. Festive, yes....fashionable for a 30something, not really. :)

1

HE'S FIVE!!! SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS!!!

2010-11-02T22:10:00.000-07:00

Carson was SO excited to turn five this year!! As a matter of fact, he's STILL excited about being five. He asks every day about this or that "that I used to do when I was four". Anyway, we had a trip to the Pumpkin Patch with the preschool that day, so it was kind of like a built in party. We celebrated with his family gifts in the morning before Jake went to work, then went to the Pumpkin Patch with his preschool friends and then had a few friends over for cake and ice cream in the early evening...easy and FUN!

I made this banner to hang above the kitchen

Carson saw the letters before I had them attached and sewn together and he said "Mom, where's the 'C'? How will everyone know it's MY birthday if it doesn't say 'Happy Birthday Carson'? And how will they know I am FIVE?"

So he woke up to this:

He was very specific in wanting a "black cake with a yellow circle and then blue". I'm pretty sure he meant he wanted a black tier, a yellow tier, and a blue tier, but no way was I going to make a 3 tier cake because that's what he 'designed' on the toys r us website! So I improvised and came up with this.

Happy Birthday to an amazing, AMAZING boy!!!

I'll have to post about the Pumpkin Patch on another day...it's time for bed!

Is October Really OVER???

2010-11-02T21:40:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how busy we are these days! We have had so much fun stuff going on over the past few months and I haven't written about ANY of it! Part of my problem is that I get started writing and then get interrupted and never go back (you should see how many 'drafts' I have with 3 lines written). I don't think I'm a very good writer, so if I don't post it right away and have to go back and finish, chances are, I'll re-read it and think "duh that's dumb" and start a new post and never finish....it's a horrible cycle!!

Anyway, I'll just post some short version stories...

Carson and Grace working on some art

Carson's finished product (a tree and some clouds)

His Own Battlefield

2010-09-10T18:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know this is a heavy topic and not fun at all, but it's World Suicide Prevention Day today. And since this subject is a big part of my family and my life, I will post. There was an "event" on facebook to share thoughts and memorials. I ran across this:

His Own Battlefield

"Our friend died on his own battlefield. He was killed in action fighting a civil war. He fought against adversaries that were as real to him as his casket is real to us. They were powerful adversaries. They took toll of his energies and endurance. They exhausted the last vestiges of his courage and his strength. At last these adversaries overwhelmed him. And it appeared that he had lost the war. But did he? I see a host of victories that he has won!

"For one thing - he has won our admiration - because even if he lost the war, we give him credit for his bravery on the battlefield. And we give him credit for the courage and pride and hope that he used as his weapons as long as he could. We shall remember not his death, but his daily victories gained through his kindnesses and thoughtfulness, through his love for his family and friends...for all things beautiful, lovely, and honorable. We shall remember not his last day of defeat, but we shall remember the many days that he was victorious over overwhelming odds. We shall remember not the years we thought he had left, but the intensity with which he lived the years that he had. Only God knows what this child of His suffered in the silent skirmishes that took place in his soul. But our consolation is that God does know, and understands."

The Reverend Wes Stephens, at a funeral for a victim of suicide

Many of these are thoughts I have had about my little brother, Shawn. He was a strong man, who had so much to live for. He was funny and had a beautiful smile. He danced like no one was watching - even though he knew we all were! I cannot imagine the kind of pain he was in. I know he fought a good fight. I love him and think of him every day.

Adventures in Sacrament Meeting

2010-07-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

I'm the first to admit, Jake and I are far from perfect parents. We love our children, we play with our children, we teach our children. And I think we're doing a descent job, but are far from perfect.

Yesterday, we all went to church. I thought I should write down a few of the funny/cute things that happened during Sacrament Meeting:

- Just before they passed the sacrament, Carson whispers, "Is this snack time?" I tried to ignore and brush him off, but he kept saying it...louder and louder. I said, "No Carson, it's not snack time, it's a time to think about Jesus." That seemed to satisfy him and he kept quiet. Well, today, we were getting in the car to go to Sue's and Carson says, "Mom, why do we think about Jesus during snack time at church? At school, we just have snacks for fun" :)

- Also during the sacrament, Grace starts saying, "I'm poopin. I'm Poopin! Mom, I'm POOPIN!!!!!" So I took her out (screaming) to go potty.

- After the bread was passed, Carson said, "Mom, are they going to give us water now? Can I take two? I'm pretty thirsty."

- Jake's back started really hurting him and we had decided to go home. I told Carson that we were leaving and he started crying "But YOU said I was gonna get to go to a different class and we were going to stay this time!!!!!"...so we stayed.

Like I said, FAR from perfect.....but really, who isn't.....right?

Happy Birthday Gracie!

2010-07-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

Grace turned three on Monday. I cannot believe she is three years old! She is not a baby OR toddler...she is a preschooler!

Since Jake will be out of town this week, we celebrated her birthday all weekend. Saturday, we went to her friend, Lauryn Perkins (they were born on the same day) birthday party. I worried that there might be some drama since Grace knew it was HER birthday too...but, she handled it beautifully! She watched Lauryn open presents with an excited little smirk on her face...too cute!

Sunday we had her birthday party at Grandma and Grandpa Anderson's house. She wore her "#3" shirt and party hat that I made for her :) and she loved all the attention! Grace requested a pink cake. Nothing fancy, just pink. I had other plans, but decided to stick with her request and made a plain, pink cake (with strawberries in the middle).

Here is Grace's third year interview:

Favorite TV Show: Einsteins, Baby Einsteins
Favorite Movie: Tinkerbell (we just rented it yesterday. Her actual favorite, the one she requests almost daily, is Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs)
Favorite Candy: Pink
Favorite Color: Pink
Favorite Letter: B S (weird, but that’s what she said)
Best Friends: Dad, Carson, Aunt Sue, Gracie (She probably just forgot to mention Mom)
Favorite Place to Go: Jumpin Jacks…we should go to Jumpin Jacks (chanting over and over)

Favorite Game: Bad Guys
Favorite Food: Chicken Nuggets
Favorite Drink: Apple Juice
Favorite Number: B (ok, we need to work on that)

Favorite Song: Stop This Train (John Mayer), Gary Go (not a song, but a group...funny how her favorites align with what Jake is currently listening to ;)

She loves to sing, tell knock knock jokes, tease her brother and chase him with her 'tickies' (her fingers walking like a spider). She gave her binky to the binky fairy, is fully potty trained and loves to play with her Littlest Pet Shops and "babies".

Like her brother, Grace loves to dance - we dance a lot in this house and the kids have the best moves! She also loves to play in the "cool" (pool). She asks to "go to a hotel to swim in the cool" on a regular basis. She loves Princess and the Frog, Team Umizumi, Dora and Little Einsteins. She can count to 10 in Spanish.

She loves to have her nails painted and when she gets her hair done, she asks if she "looks like a princess". To which the answer is ALWAYS "YES, Grace, you DO look like a beautiful princess".

She is my girl. I love her...

The Crappiest Fourth Of July EVER!

2010-07-04T19:31:00.000-07:00

WARNING: This is a long one!!

July 4th landed on Sunday this year, which, in Utah means the celebrations mainly take place on Saturday the 3rd. We had plans to go to James and Lisa's for fireworks and fun, but those plans were quickly changed...

"Mom, I've swallowed something REALLY BAD. It's REALLY BAD!!"

Crap! Carson and I were in his room trying to take a nap...well, I was trying to nap, HE was playing with some little alkaline batteries. Three little alkaline batteries - the kind found in hearing aids and little light up toothbrushes. Now we have only one of those batteries. The other two are somewhere in his body.

Jake and I both tried to get him to gag them up (which you are not supposed to do, but we panicked). I called the InstaCare and they told me to bring him in. They need to know where the batteries are. So after some frantic words (it's no secret that we don't do well under pressure!), Jake took the third battery and Carson down to the clinic.

Jake called about 20 minutes later saying we needed to go to the ER, but the ER in Riverton didn't have the equipment they needed to pull out the batteries with a scope. So Grace and I hopped in the car and met Carson and Jake at the Riverton Hospital to drive downtown together. Jake said the nurse at the InstaCare almost wanted to send him by ambulance, but she trusted that we'd go directly to Primary Children's Hospital. And we did.

As we were checking in at the front desk, I see Sandy, my dad's wife, walking down the hall. Her eight year old granddaughter was hit by a car that afternoon. Wow. I'm so glad Carson only swallowed a couple of batteries! She's ok, but broke her leg in two places and has some other injuries, but nothing life threatening. She was just baptized that morning. Poor thing.

So Grace, Jake and I get settled in while Carson gets checked out. This was at about 4:30...if we hurry, maybe we can still make it to set off some fireworks.

We were seen by a doctor, a few nurses and then finally a surgeon (very young, very green). He says we will probably do a live xray (I forget what it's called) and if the batteries haven't dropped to the lower intestine, they'll insert a scope down his throat and remove them. Once they drop to the lower intestine, it's best to just let nature run it's course and poop them out. The surgery that would be required at that point, would be too unnecessarily invasive. The acids in the esophagus and stomach could corrode the seal on the batteries, causing the batteries to leak and possibly burn his intestines. YIKES! But once in the lower intestine, he 'should' be out of any danger.

Now it's 7...no way will we make it to James and Lisa's. Maybe we can still see some fireworks on the way home.

We were told we just needed to wait until the "Greenie" asks his "boss" what procedure he wants to do. Then a few minutes later the nurse comes in and is ready to take Carson upstairs. FAST! GREAT! There was some minor confusion as to whether or not we signed a consent form - we said we did, the nurse said we did not. When we got upstairs and met Dr Black (the "boss" surgeon), he said, "this is a pretty short surgery, about 30 minutes or so. You can wait in the waiting room and see him when he wakes up. Then, if all goes well, you can take him home in 2 or 3 days"..........silence...........Jake - "Whoa, wait, no one said anything about surgery. I don't think we are quite there. I mean, if it comes to that - but no, no one said anything about surgery. I don't think I understand..." Then he proceeded to tell the surgeon what he understood to be the next steps - you know a little xray and maybe a scope. Dr Black says, "No, I can't do this surgery with a scope, it's a small incision for the appendectomy." THEY BROUGHT UP THE WRONG PATIENT!!! (hence the questioned consent form).

Whew! We all had a little laugh of relief and Dr Black confirmed that the batteries will be removed with a scope and Carson's appendix will be left as is. :)

So we went back downstairs to wait some more. They had already set up the room for the appendectomy and could not squeeze us in...dang.

We waited and waited and waited. Poor Grace was such a trooper! We thought about calling someone to take her, but then since we were not sure how long we'd be (or quick we'd be) we figured we'd just stick together.

Finally, the anesthesiologist came down to get him ready for his iv. Wait...why does he need an iv for an xray??? After ANOTHER miscommunication with "Greenie" and ANOTHER 40+ minutes of waiting, we were told they would do the scope first and the xray only if they could not find the batteries. I don't understand why, but by this point I don't really care why. They have so many different doctors and nurses checking in and giving their version of what is going to happen...we were utterly confused.

Around 9:45 they finally took Carson upstairs again. The docs were calling him the "Energizer Bunny", so we knew they had the right patient this time! Carson picked out the cotton candy flavored mask and was whisked away. Jake had taken Grace for a ride in the car to see if they could see any fireworks (which they did get to see a few small bursts) so I went to the waiting room. About 10 minutes or so later, Dr Black came in and told me the batteries have 'moved on' and that we'd have to keep an eye out for them in his poop. Great. He said to wait about 10-15 minutes for Carson to wake up and then I could wait with him to be released. They like to keep them for about an hour after waking up to make sure there were no complications with the anesthesia. Jake and Grace made it back to the waiting room just a few minutes before the nurse called for me at about 11:00. I thought they forgot about us, but they said that Carson was just so sleepy that he wouldn't wake up. Hello...it's ELEVEN O'CLOCK!!!

Grace got to get on the bed and ride along with Carson. It was cute. The nurse said Carson was "so stinkin cute"...I happen to agree :) We passed room 101 and he said "Isn't it funny that one hundred and one is just 1 0 1? That is so funny"...No Carson, YOU are so funny!!

So we waited in Carson's recovery room and watched Deadliest Catch (nothing else was on). Carson and Grace both got to lay on the bed and eat root beer slushies. Around 12:30 we were out of there. CARSON was out of there. I carried his limp little sleeping body out to the car and our little family went home.

He had his first "movement" this morning. No batteries. I don't know if I can do this part of motherhood.

Carson has been so cute during this whole thing. He knew he did the wrong thing by putting those batteries in his mouth. He knows not to eat things that are not food. I felt so sorry for him having to admit that he did something wrong. I KNOW he won't be doing it again. He has done everything I've asked him to do today...I just have to follow my request with "it will help you poop" and he's all over it!! He took a nap because "it will help you poop", he ate a big bowl of broccoli because "it'll help you poop", and he did some exercises ....

I love that smart little man more than anything...or as he told Jake the other day...

"I love you more than the earth and the sky and the EVERYTHING...except the family. I love the family the same". He is my family and I love him.

Neverbuddies

2010-05-22T20:50:00.000-07:00

I don't have any amazingly entertaining stories to write about tonight, but I'm tired of seeing that ugly scar picture whenever I get on this blog - I use my page to get to everyone else's pages. So here's a short, cute "new word" story from Carson:

Carson: Mom, do you have any "neverbuddies"?
Me: Neverbuddies? I don't know what that is, what is a neverbuddy?
Carson: Well, it's a buddy that you meet, but he never comes to your house and you never go to his house.

I figured out that he is talking about the friends you meet in playplaces and parks that you will probably "never see again" - as so delicately explained by his mother :/

One Year Ago...

2010-05-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

A year ago today, I had a partial thyroidectomy to remove a nodule (or goiter if you really want to call it that) on my left thyroid. It turned out to be non-cancerous, but the only way to know for sure was to have it removed. After my surgery, the doctor said that I made the right decision. If I had let it go, it was the type to just keep growing and I could have had a second head by now :)

If you think the picture looks gross, you should have seen it in real life! So ugly...but I decided I'd give it one year before freaking out. It's a good thing I did, because I think it's healed quite nicely.

Hopefully there will be nothing left to do with this thing now. I have to stay on synthroid forever, but only to stop a new nodule from growing, not to regulate the hormone. Yay for happy endings :)

Day 1 :(

Day 366 :)

Finally, the first days of SPRING are here!

2010-04-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about writing on this dumb blog for a while, but haven't felt very creative and have really just been a little lazy and selfish with my alone time lately. Well, tonight, there is nothing on TV, the kids are in bed, the house is clean (er than usual), Jake is downstairs doing something with Photoshop or cameras or research on Photoshop or cameras...so....here I am. I debated writing about the "Boot Camp" class I tried yesterday...tried as in - I only made it through about 15 minutes of "warm ups" before I grabbed my crap and headed for the door!!! (let's just say I'm more suited for "Flip Flop Camp" right now). Instead, I'll just post some pictures of the kids playing in this beautiful Springtime weather we've been enjoying this week.

Thanks again to Lisa and the girls for the super fun picnic at the park! Other than the HUGE meltdown on the way to the car (thank you, Carson), it was a perfect day! On a positive note, it sure was nice not to have the Wii on yesterday ;)

Oh Sweet Poetry

2010-02-17T21:35:00.000-08:00

Let me start off by saying, yes, I know I dropped off the face of this blog in the middle of my 25 days of Christmas. I kept planning on finishing it up, but come on...I know myself well enough to know that if I haven't finished it up by Valentines Day, it's probably not going to happen! Better luck next year! Time to move on...

So I pulled out an old box - my "box 'o memories" - tonight looking for pictures to scan and ran across a poem that I wrote in 2002. It was for one of those poetry 'contests' where if you are selected, your poem will be published in "The Sound of Poetry" collection. I thought it sounded kind of scam-ish, so I thought I'd enter and see what happened - just for kicks :)

http://poetry.com/poems/swiss-chocolate/7365333/

Totally lame. It looks like a 3rd grader wrote it! But I got a letter saying "Swiss Chocolate" would be included in the highly acclaimed and internationally distributed three-album collection. "Just imagine, Michelle, how your friends and family will feel when they hear your name...your words...presented as part of this exclusive collection. This album will instantly become a treasured keepsake to all who hear and enjoy it" Too funny!

The dreadded mid-month slump...

2009-12-11T19:34:00.000-08:00

Ok, so this past week has not been nearly as ambitious as the first! I'm just going to post right now so I can start over tomorrow!

Day 6 was Sunday - Movie, popcorn and eggnog. Sounds fun, right? Well, I was not prepared and did not buy any eggnog. So when I read the card, I just left that part out. Movie and popcorn sounded fun too. Well, I didn't get a movie on Saturday and was too lazy to even run to the Redbox. So....popcorn. Everybody likes popcorn, but we didn't take any pictures to post of us eating popcorn and watching TV.

Day 7...a bit better...the best of the week, I think. We went to look at the elves at Gardner Village. It snowed Sunday night and I really thought I'd back out, but when the kids were getting on my nerves at 9am, I knew we needed an activity...I am so glad we went through with it. We had so much fun! I'll post a scrapbook picture when it's done, but for now, here is one of the 3 of us...

Day 8 - Family Game Night

Jake bought a game that was going to be a Christmas present, but we decided they'll have enough gifts to open on Christmas that they could enjoy this one a bit early. It was a Very Hungry Caterpillar game based on the book. So Jake read the book first and then we played the game. It was really pretty cute and we all tied :)

Day 9 - Make a paper chain for the tree

I improvised a little. Instead of paper, we used pipe cleaners to make the circles. It was easier for the kids. They turned out pretty cute! The pictures are still on the camera though, so you'll just have to wait :)

Day 10 - Here is where we fizzled out....Toys for Tots

We haven't even been to the store yet. We just need to pick up a toy and drop it off at Frito Lay. Hopefully we can do it tomorrow....

Day 11 - Make Christmas cards for friends and family - we just plain skipped this one. There was just too much to do last week!

Day 12 - We didn't even pull the card off the ribbon. What a horrible mom...plus, I didn't get on the computer AT ALL that day, so I did not feel obligated by Facebook friends!!

Day 13 - Ride Trax downtown

We did this one...and it was FUN! We went at night after dinner at Jake's parent's house. The kids thought it was too cool to go so fast on the train. I think next time we'll go earlier in the day. It was kind of hard to see anything out of the smudgy windows :)

Day 14 - Bake cookies with Cousins!

Rachel brought Sadie, Trystan, Aubrie and McKenna over to bake some sugar cookies. They had a ton of fun! This one we will definitely do again! - but next time, we'll be sure to take pictures.

Day 15 - Sledding and hot chocolate. It was kind of windy and the kids were grouchy, so we didn't do it. Jake took them to the dollar store to pick out fun stuff though...that could count!!

Day 16 - that is today. We have not picked off the card. I think we are supposed to bake more cookies...I think we'll exchange cards with another day!

Ok, I feel better. We have only skipped a couple. Not bad. I can, and will redeem myself.

Until next time....enjoy this Holiday season!!

25 Days of Christmas 1-5

2009-12-06T12:35:00.000-08:00

As I said in my last post, we started a new tradition this year. I made 25 little envelopes, each with a new activity for the day, and hung them on a ribbon to count down to Christmas. So far it has been a LOT of fun! Here are some pictures of this past week's activities:

Day 1 - make paper snowflakes

Day 2 - Festival of Trees

Day 3 - Paint everyone's toenails (we just painted the kids' toes. I was too pooped by the end of the day!)

Day 4 - Bake Cookies!

Chocolate Chip :)

Day 5 - Letters to Santa

Grace went to sleep for this one. Carson and I cut out pictures of toys that he wants and then we pasted them on a piece of paper. He dictated and I wrote "Dear Santa, Bring me a Nerf Blaster. I have been good to you Santa. I want a Nerf Blaster. Love, Carson"

Tonight is movie, popcorn and eggnog night!

December is looking to be a great month!

THIS is the year I've been waiting for!!!

2009-12-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

Carson GETS it! And since HE gets it, Grace gets it (or at least 'pretends' to get it and goes along with everything)! Carson has been talking nonstop about Santa and Christmas and presents and being good...I LOVE IT! This year we are doing an eventful advent calendar. I made 25 little envelopes that each have a different activity inside. It hangs from a ribbon and we will open one every morning. I saw this idea in a Parenting or Family Fun magazine (I can't remember) and have since seen several blogs with different variations. I'm excited, the kids are excited and there is no way we'll have a boring December!!

Enjoy the holiday season!!!

Too Early for SNOW!

2009-10-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

Carson couldn't get in the snow fast enough! He got home from preschool and begged for me to take him outside. So, I put Grace down for a nap and dug out the hats, scarves and gloves. He got all bundled up and went out to the backyard. When he was done out back, we went out front (I kind of hid from the weather in the garage...it was so cold!). Luckily, our corner neighbors love the snow and invited Carson over to help build a snowman - I went back home and started on the hot chocolate! Surprisingly, he stayed out for an hour!

Today he decided to get himself all bundled up first thing in the morning. He put on his hat, jacket, scarf, gloves and my boots and said, "These boots are FANTASTIC, let's see what they can do!" and headed outside. He forgot one thing...he was wearing shorts. He quickly came back in and said, "Mom, I'm not done yet, but my knees are cold and these boots are a little big." So we put on some pants and his own boots and away he went again.

Grace could not care less about the snow...yet.

Happy Birthday Carson!!!

2009-10-13T20:28:00.001-07:00

So I no longer sound insane when I say I have two kids, ages 2 and 3. Ages 2 and 4 sounds much more manageable! When Carson woke up this morning I told him that today was his birthday. He got all wide eyed and smiles and said, "you mean TODAY, RIGHT NOW??" Then he kind of looked around the living room like "um, then where are my gifts?" I reassured him that he would have presents and cake, but reminded him that we wouldn't want to leave daddy out of the fun. He would need to first, go to preschool (where he would be leader and be in charge of treats), then come home and rest (please take a nap, please take a nap...), then T-Ball (again in charge of the treats), and THEN we'd come home for cake and fun. So all day he was like "Preschool, T-Ball, BIRTHDAY"...notice he left out the rest/nap.

I asked him what kind of cake or cupcakes he wanted. He said he wanted a mummy cake. Great...I was hoping to get off easy, but that's what I get for asking! So during his 'rest' (no, he did not take a nap) I made his cake. I told him that if he came out of his room, I'd have to stop making his cake. He stayed in his room for TWO HOURS! I guess he really wanted a mummy cake!

So the rest of the day was pretty uneventful. Spongebob, a couple of time outs, more Spongebob...we were just waiting for T-Ball time. The wind was whipping and I really thought his game would get cancelled, but no luck. When the game was over, he asked his coach "Is the game over?" Coach said "Yes", Carson jumps in the air "YES!!!" and ran to the car...I'm sure that made Coach feel pretty good!

Jake put Carson's brand new bike right in the middle of the kitchen so he could get a picture of his first reaction...Carson didn't even notice it! I had to actually say "Look behind you...no, turn around and LOOK BEHIND YOU" and pointed right at the bike. FINALLY!

Ethan, Ashley, Sawyer and Isabelle (and their parents) came over for dry cake and ice cream. They brought gifts as well...Trick Trax...our favorite! We played for a little while and now both little ones are fast asleep.

I did another little "About Carson" thing this morning, but funny...his answers were incredibly similar to last year's...Spongebob, juice...so I just have a few thoughts of my own...

Carson has been such a fun little blessing in our lives! He is so funny, spirited and smart. I love everything about him! He is finally starting to see how convenient having a built in playmate can be (Grace) and they actually play more often than fight :) He loves preschool, loves his friends, LOVES his dad, loves music and dancing, hates meat, but loves to eat 'healthy foods'. He tolerates TBall, but I think we'll find a more exciting sport next year. Four seems so old...he's not a baby anymore, but he's also not a teen, tween, or even schoolage kid yet! I love you, Carson! muah!

Is that Grace, or Dick Cheney?

2009-09-23T21:36:00.000-07:00

I can't help myself....

Finally Fall

2009-09-21T15:16:00.001-07:00

I took the kids up to Daybreak a couple days ago to take some pictures. It was a bit chilly, but we snapped a couple photos before the noses got too runny. I think we'll go again later in the afternoon when it's a little warmer, but for now...here's what we got (notice Grace's 'stink eye' in several of the pics...that's her squint!)

In case you haven't noticed, I'm a little obsessed with the scrapbooking thing. It's fun and addictive - AND it captures our priceless memories! :) Here is another one of Steph and Ryan at Temple Square during one of their visits this summer....they are crazy!

Schools and Casts.....

2009-09-15T13:06:00.001-07:00

We officially have a preschooler...backpack and all! His only complaint is that there is not a school bus to ride. He gets to carpool every other week with our neighbor, so that helps things a little, but he just doesn't understand why he can't just get on the big yellow bus with his five year old friends every morning! :)

Grace broke her wrist in two places a few weeks ago. I was on the phone with the cable company and she was sitting on the arm of the couch. When she fell off, I tried to quiet her cries with her blanket, a binky, George...all the usual tricks. When she threw the sucker across the room, I decided it was time to hang up with Dish Network and take her to the Instacare. Sure enough. She got a cute pink cast and lots of loves and apologies from Mom for not insisting that she get OFF the arm of the couch! 3 weeks later and she's as good as new!

Jake is out of town this week...and then again next week...and then the week after that...We have a new McDonald's play place to keep us entertained when we get sick of each other, but we are missing him already (and it's only been one day so far!!)!

Just a couple stories...

2009-08-03T16:33:00.001-07:00

Occasionally, I'll turn the ipod on to something that I actually want to listen to. Today was Niel Diamond's turn. When "Love On The Rocks" came on, Carson came in my room and said, "I hate that song, Mom. For reals, I hate it." When I didn't rush to turn it off, he just stood there with his hands over his ears until it ended. Then he went on, business as usual.

A couple of days ago, I bought a bag of DumDums as 'treats' for the kids. They LOVE to get them at the bank, so I thought it would be a good idea. Well, Grace is definately showing her two year old personality at the mear mention of "you little sucker" or "that sucks" (which we rarely say...). She runs to the cupboard begging. If you linger for just a split second by the cupboard where they are kept she starts begging. When you say, "no suckers right now" she screams and shakes until you think her eyes are going to pop out of her head "Suck, I want suck!!!! Sucker! DumDum! Sucker! Suck! DumDum SUCKER SUCK I WANT SUCK!!!!!!" And on and on and on and on...you get the point. Well, she has not stopped screaming about it all afternoon today. I think Carson finally had had enough. He went to his room, found a sucker he had hidden earlier, and gave it to Grace. Peace and quiet...

Grace was not too fond of the 4th or 24th of July. She wanted to be a part of the festivities, but was scared to death of the fireworks. Now, every time we go to the garage or front door, she says, "no fireworks, Mom, no fireworks". You are right, Grace, no fireworks.

Carson just came in and randomly said, "Mom, you're supposed to sneeze in the bend of your arm"...maybe Nickelodeon is good for SOMETHING afterall. :)

Happy Birthday Gracie!! (yes, 2 posts in one day...)

2009-07-13T20:22:00.001-07:00

Grace turned two yesterday...my how time has flown!! We went to Bear Lake on Thursday and Friday, so we were all pretty burned out to have a formal celebration, so we just quietly celebrated here together as a family.

I 'interviewed' Carson last year on his birthday and thought it was so fun that we might make it a tradition to remember the things the kids are in to that year. Grace is a little too young still (I think most of her answers would be "ya" or "ain-a git down" -I wanna get down), so I just wrote down some things on my own.

Gracie's "ies" translations:

Chickie nuggies = chicken nuggets
Scrambied eggies = scrambled eggs
Ah see duckies = I see ducks (or birds, or puppets, etc – most things are “duckies”)
Dee dee bugs = ladybugs
Bee-bee-bee = bumble bee
Buggies = bugs
Phuai wox = fireworks
Beebee ain-nain = baby einsteins
Bubbies = bubbles
Ain-a touchie – I wanna touch it

Grace loves to dance. The music comes on and her little knees start bouncing. She does a dance that looks like a Milli Vanilli dance of the 80’s and she has recently added a little twirl, which makes her laugh uncontrollably when she gets a little dizzy. Speaking of laughing, Grace “inward” laughs (think “nerdy” laugh without the snorts). She smiles often and loves to show her “pretty Gracie” (she kind of poses with a cheesy smile).

Grace can still be calmed in a heartbeat with the mere mention of “Baby Einsteins”. She runs to get her binki, blankie and georgie, pulls up a big pillow and stares at the tv. But you’d better hurry “Ein-nain, Ein-nain, Ain-a-Ein-nain” gets old fast (see interpretation above). :)

She can count to 14, she loves cottage cheese, she will NOT drink milk, she's obedient in time out and she's a great "cleaner-upper"!

I’m so glad to have such a sweet, easy-going daughter. She is so precious to me. These past two years have really flown by. I cherish every moment with my kids (yes, even when I’m frustrated up to my eyebrows) and am so blessed to have them.

New scrapbook pages

2009-07-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

I made 3 new scrapbook pages this weekend. Jake took the sparkler picture of Carson on the 4th of July. It turned out really cool so it kind of inspired me to get in gear and get some pages done before these pictures are forgotten and burried under the thousands of new ones we take everyday!

Carson has to WHAT???

2009-06-25T10:02:00.001-07:00

So something happened this morning that I just had to share. Carson wanted to 'write words' on the computer...I needed to get some things done and I figured the computer is a better babysitter than the tv, so I set him up and left to do my stuff. I came back and this is what he had typed...

Carson's "cry"

2009-05-14T19:33:00.000-07:00

I have kind of a funny story about Carson and the amazing "tricks" that work (if even for a moment). Lately he has been getting upset over nothing and then says "I can't s-t-o-p
c-r-y-i-n-g" and that he "needs something to feel me better"...like candy, juice, water, food...anything really. Well, I'm pretty much sick of it by now...it was cute at first, but enough already. So I tell him that nothing can make him stop crying except himself. A few weeks ago, Carson was throwing a fit (surprise, I know, anyway...) and would not stop crying. So I gasped with a surprised look on my face and took a peek inside his ear....it was his 'cry'! So I grabbed the 'cry' out of his ear, crumpled it up in my hands and asked him if he'd like to flush it down the toilet. Immediately the fit ended. "Oooh, yes, mom! Let's flush that 'cry' right down the toilet!"

That kid is so funny! As I type this, Jake is putting Carson to bed (I have a great husband, yes, but that's another story). I just heard Carson yell from his bed "Dad, Hurry up with that water!!"...I wonder if I can pull some manners out of his ears as well!!!

All About Me...

2009-04-25T16:19:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the 2009 edition of getting to know your Friends. 'press FORWARD' then change all the answers so they apply to you, and then send this to your friends including the person who sent it to you. The theory is that you will learn a lot of little things about your friends that you might not have known!

1. What time did you get up this morning?
Carson came in and woke me up at 6:45, but since it's Saturday I made him patiently wait until 7 before I finally dragged myself out of bed!

2. Diamonds or pearls?
Diamonds, of course, I'm not 80 yet...maybe THEN I'll like pearls...

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
I saw the movie "Earth", courtesy of the fine folks at Frito Lay. Very well done, but the "circle of life" facts were a little hard to enjoy :(

4. What is your favorite TV show?
Starting with Sunday, they are as follows: Desperate Housewives, 24, Medium, CSI Miami, Biggest Loser, Law and Order SVU, CSI NY, Greys Anatomy, CSI, Office, Prison Break. I'm sorry to those I forgot to mention...I probably forgot some that are off season. Oh, and the Today Show...gotta get my Matt Lauer fix :)

5. What do you usually have for breakfast?
Whatever the task masters (aka kids) order. Usually cereal or waffles.

6. What is your middle name?
Don't have one...I guess Lacey now.

7. What food do you dislike?
Sea creatures

8. What is your favorite CD at moment?
We (usually Jake) make our own CDs. The fav right now is one with Taylor Swift, Jason Mraz and Trace Adkins. I'm sure it's going to remind us of these fun times with our kids in later days.

9. What kind of car do you drive?
Mazda 6 (zoom zoom) and sometimes the Murano

10. Favorite sandwich?
Turkey on wheat w/avocado, sprouts and tomatoes (cheese or no cheese...doesn't matter - in case someone wants to make me one)

11. What characteristics do you despise?
Liars

12. Favorite item(s) of clothing?
I love the "Shade" tanks and T's. Super long and way comfy...I just got some new ones yesterday :)

13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?
on a cruise with my family: husband, sons, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews & parents - this is the same answer as Sues...I guess we should plan a trip!!

14. Favorite brand(s)?
No specific favorite brand...fit, comfort and quality are all that matter to me

15. Where would you retire to?
Wherever my kids end up. I can't imagine not being around them to meddle in their lives!!

16. What was your most recent memorable birthday?
I can't really recall...but I have a pile of presents on the counter telling me this one will be great!

17. Favorite sport to watch?
basketball

18. Furthest place you are sending this?
I'm not really sure I'll send it out...probably just post it on the blog so my fans around the globe can read all about me ;)

19. Person you expect to send it back first?
I don't imagine anyone will...I know I don't usually.

20. When is your birthday?
Monday (April 27)

21. Are you a morning person or a night person?
I'm more of a mid-day kind of person :)

22. What is your shoe size?
big, very big. I have a sturdy foundation.

23. Pets?
Ginger (our beagle) is the last one standing...Jake insists that we keep her! :)

24. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us?
New and exciting??? I wish, but no.

25. What did you want to be when you were little?
A vet and pet shop owner. Probably because that's what my BFF Stacey wanted to be...I was kind of a follower.

26. How are you today?
Super

27. What is your favorite candy?
Reeses peanut butter cups and Rollos

28. What is your favorite flower?
Any kind Jake brings home. It's kind of a rarity, but always appreciated!

29. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to?
June 13, Amber's baby shower!

30. What is your full name?
Michelle Lacey Anderson

31. What are you listening to right now?
Jake playing his guitar. He just lulled Carson to sleep a few minutes ago, but has switched gears to Metallica. He keeps asking "name this one"...and "how does this go?"...as if I have a clue!!

32. What was the last thing you ate?
I had a Very Berry Smoothie at the gym and I'm starving! I can't wait till Grace wakes up so we can go to my bday dinner at the Training Table :)
33. Do you wish on stars?
Sometimes

34. If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
Green...it looks great on the living room walls...thanks Grace!

35. How is the weather right now?
Cold and rainy

36. The first person you spoke to on the phone today?
I think it was Steph or Mom...imagine that...

37. Favorite soft drink?
Diet Coke

38. Favorite restaurant?
The Melting Pot when we're feeling spendy, but I always like Chilis too.

39. Real hair color?
Brown

40. What was your favorite toy as a child?
I had a short lived monkey that I lost. I didn't have him long, but I totally remember loving him with all my heart :)

41. Summer or winter?
Fall

42. Hugs or kisses?
both

43. Chocolate or Vanilla?
Vanilla

44. Coffee or tea?
Diet Coke

45. Do you want your friends to email you back?
This is a silly question. Of course, it is always fun to learn more.

46. When was the last time you cried?
Surprisingly enough it's been a whole week!!! I got a speeding ticket and the cop caught me at JUST the right emotional moment...how embarrassing! Too bad it didn't get me out of the stupid ticket!!

47. What is under your bed?
Shoes and junk...probably some long lost binkies and socks!

48. What did you do last night?
Watched 007 and went to bed.

49. What are you afraid of?
spiders and flying insects.

50. Salty or sweet?
Sweet...definitely sweet.

51. How many keys on your key ring?
2

52. How many years at your current job?
I started at Mountain Land Rehab July 2003, but went part time in October 05. I'm still working a few hours a week...if that counts.

53. Favorite day of the week?
Saturday

54. How many towns have you lived in?
Phoenix, Yuba City, Salt Lake (Cottonwood, Taylorsville, Holladay, Sugarhouse, 9th&9th and now So Jordan)

55. Do you make friends easily?
Not really at first. I've been told I'm "intimidating", but I think I'm very easily "intimidatED". The didn't call me "Shy Shelly" for nothing!

56. How many people will you send this to?
I'm not sure.

57. How many will respond?
I'm guessing no one. I know I usually don't respond!!

2009-04-09T22:01:00.000-07:00

This was last March...a whole year ago...wow it goes by fast!

Pics of the kids...

2009-04-06T18:22:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I don't really have any funny stories or cute things to say...so I'll just let the faces of my children make you smile...

How's that for a blog???

Is that Grace, or Shirley McClain???

2009-03-18T20:42:00.000-07:00

Ha, I may be way off...but for some reason, this picture of Grace reminds me of Shirley McClain...

Cute little Sweden!

2009-03-15T00:31:00.000-07:00

So I just have a short, funny story about my 8 year old niece, Sweden. It's my mom's story, but since she doesn't blog, I feel responsible to jot it down cuz it's too dang cute!

My mom took Sweden to church a couple of weeks ago and during Sacrament Meeting, she wrote my mom a little poem...Roses are red, violets are blue, sugar is sweet and so are you. Familiar poem, I know. But she drew a rose by the word rose and little circles around the violets part. She explains to my mom, "I didn't know what a violet looked like, so I just drew blueberries!" Funny, hu? :)

Man, I love that little girl! She is so smart, clever and adorable!!! Love you, Sweden!!!

6th file, 6th picture

2009-02-27T11:54:00.000-08:00

Grace 9 1/2 months

Shannon had this on her blog. I just 'checked' to see which picture was the 6th picture in the 6th file...how could I not post it???

What are they doing???

2009-02-12T21:55:00.000-08:00

I just thought this picture was funny and had to post it!
(is Grace trying to hide the bird she's flipping?)

My first digital scrapbooking experience...

2009-02-08T21:54:00.000-08:00

So Jake got us the Photoshop Elements software for Christmas (actually, he waited until AFTER Christmas to get it on sale...he knew the gift would mean that much more to his cheap wife if he waited for a good deal!). You know, new software takes so much time to learn. I have been so busy working and stuff that I haven't had time to play around with it much. Well, this weekend I played around. F-U-N. Cristi, I totally see how you get hooked! Anyway, here are my first pages. Not super creative, but I promise to try to get better! After losing our first 2 years of Carson's digital life, these pictures mean sooo much more to us. (BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUP!)

2009-02-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

Our Gracie Girl

2009-02-05T12:37:00.000-08:00

Ok, so if anyone ever wonders why I love my husband so much...

Sure, he treats me great...he is an extremely hard worker and has a great work ethic...he plays the most beautiful guitar...yes, he has many traits that are quite loveable.

But the way he loves our kids is amazing. He put together this slideshow for Grace that has me almost in tears every time I watch it. I am so lucky to have a husband that is such a great father as well.

I had to break it up in 2 sections because I couldn't upload it to the blog. Enjoy.

Happy Birthday Lisa and "What Chipped Tooth???"

2009-01-13T13:26:00.000-08:00

Sunday was my sister in law, Lisa's birthday. I made her a cake for dessert on Sunday and just wanted to thank her for the fun, sanity and calmness she brings to my life. She never judges me when I think I need to call the doctor because my child is "sleeping too much" or "not sleeping enough" or "looks" sick. In fact, she encourages me to do so! :) Lisa is a great friend and I am so glad our husbands are twins.

We love you, Lisa!!

I was going to do a second post, but thought I'd just tack on to the first one. It's a bit of a story, and there is a lot involved, so pay attention...

Saturday morning, I got a phonecall from my sister, Suzanne. Weird, I thought, she NEVER calls so early...especially on a Saturday. She sent a text when I didn't answer. Kevin had a heart attack and they were at St Marks Hospital. I hurried out the door to be with her (thanks again to Jake for being more than understanding with the kids). It turns out he had a moderate attack and would be in the ICU for the night. I came home in the afternoon to change clothes and grab one of the kids (Carson) before I headded back out. Kevin's mother was at St Marks also. She had hip replacement surgery and was planning to go home Saturday morning, but extended her stay one more day. Enter Carson.... He was up later than usual and pumped full of sugar to keep him happy. For those that don't know, lately when Carson gets sleepy, he starts talking about "bonkin heads". Well, aparently he bonked poor Sasha a little too hard...

Jake freaked. He did not want Carson to have a silver cap like he had growing up.

So, a quick trip to the dentist and my brave, brave, brave little boy is as good as new...

PS, I didn't at all mean to skim over Kevin's heart attack. It was such an unexpected shock and I'm so glad he's going to be ok. He and Suzanne have done so much for me and my brothers and sisters. He is a great example to me and I don't know what we would do without him. Love you Kev!!!

Grace Helps with the Laundry

2009-01-10T11:52:00.000-08:00

Frustrating little tyke! :) Someday we're going to miss this kinda stuff....

Love you Grace!

-Dad

Christmas Fun

2009-01-06T10:07:00.000-08:00

Where to begin...

White, White, White, White Christmas!!

Thank goodness Santa knew that a "Wall Gun" is a gun that you shoot at the WALL! Unfortunately, he didn't notice that the "bullets" the gun shoots are paint balls. The actual gun is called a SupaSplat and is for children 8 and older. It states to "wash with warm soapy water immediately" right on the box. I'm so glad he got it though...the smiles and hugs were well worth it (Carson hugged the gun...not me)! And now we have colorful "splats" all over the melted snow in the backyard!

We had such a fun Christmas! I remember thinking last year that NEXT year would be fun...and it sure was! Three is the magical age for us...Carson totally gets it! Grace was only slightly overwhelmed and loves all her new "friends". Her favorite is a Glow Worm...who knew??? She also loves her Curious George monkey...just like her mama! :)

Joseph and Mary (aka Carson & Abby) at the Annual Anderson Christmas Eve Party

Not a Wall Gun, but an appropriate "inside" shooter :)

Spy Rope Works and Wall Guns...

2008-12-21T21:01:00.000-08:00

If anyone knows what a "Spy-Rope-Works" is and a "Wall Gun" PLEASE clue me in!! Carson has been talking about going to this Spy Rope Works place all day! "It has planes, and basketball, and wall guns...doesn't that sound FUN?" Then he continued to say that they have "movies, and TVs, and lights, and games..." Seriously, he won't shut up about it!! It's WAY past bedtime right now and he's in his room saying "Spy Rope Works, Spy Rope Works, Spy Rope Works..." and "if I go to sleep, we will go to Spy Rope Works tomorrow". I asked him if he played Spy Rope Works with his neighbor friends. To this he replied, "No, silly, it's all the way across town". Duh, I should have known! Then he came to get me because he needed me to drive to Spy Rope Works with him. His car was in his room ready to go. He had taken all of the toys from his closet and piled them on top of his bed-I mean, car. That stinker is so cute! It's finally quiet. Not bad, only 2 hours past his bedtime. ugh.

Cute, smart kids...

2008-12-07T11:40:00.000-08:00

Pretty soon he'll be walking me through the features on my cell phone...

Hanging it Up

2008-12-06T14:51:00.000-08:00

Today I'm wrapping up my last week of school and I thought I'd take a break to write about it.

As I was working, I found myself contemplating what it might be like to have more free time at night and on weekends. I hope it won't be too intrusive for Carson, who has never known me to have much time for him. Not to mention Michelle, who now feels guilty when she's able to spend a night watching TV.

The thought made me really think about the fact that I'm not the only one in this family who's had so little free time. Michelle has put so much into supporting me with this. She must really love me.

She has never complained about it. Not one time.

I can't recall her ever being upset about events I couldn't attend, or all of the times I couldn't rescue her from a burnout. But when I'm stressed or complain about my life, she talks me through it.

I don't quite know how to thank you babe, other than to tell everyone what a good person you are.

I guess I owe you one, huh?

Carson at the Office

2008-11-25T19:23:00.000-08:00

Michelle and the kids came out to Frito Lay today to drop some things off and Carson really wanted to come into Dad's office. For some reason he didn't put his shoes on when he got ready and I told him that he couldn't come in. I told him that instead, I would come outside and bring him a snack. He didn't like the idea and when I came out with some doritos, he was ticked. He cried and said "I wanted cracker tracks" Eventually, I caved and carried him in.... and boy am I glad I did. He got so much work done for me that I didn't know what to do with myslef. :) What can I say, the kid loves the computer.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween! For a long time it was my favorite holiday. Fall, in general, is my favorite time of year, but the candy, the throwing together a last minute costume, going to haunted houses and getting chased by chainsaw guy, the candy...it's just so much fun. Now that the kids are here it's a totally different experience! It's not so much the chainsaws and haunted houses that scare me, but the sudden onslaught of sweets that doesn't stop until January! First, I can't even control MYSELF when it comes to sugary snacks...but now I also have to listen to the "I wanna piece of candy"...and "I don't want grilled cheese, I just want some candy". Really, how can I say no when I feel the same way?! I remember when Devin and Cody used to "share" their Halloween candy (everything but the Reeces Peanutbutter Cups...those were for their mom). They'd offer one piece and I'd sneak two! What a terrible aunt! My poor kids are going to think they only got 3 pieces of candy for Halloween... Good luck to all of you during the upcoming festivities. Be strong and just say "NO" (or at least "maybe just one").

My Favorite 3 Year Old

2008-10-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Carson's third birthday tonight. I am totally bumbed because somehow ALL of the pictures we took were deleted. You've gotta love technology! Suzanne took this picture of the cake with her phone. I was so glad...it took forever! Carson had SO much fun...I couldn't get him to settle down afterwards!

Before the party, I asked Carson a few questions to help us remember what he was in to at this age. This is how it went:

Favorite TV Show: Spongebob
Favorite Movie: I don't know, just Spongebob
Favorite Candy: Dots
Favorite Color: Yellow and Green
Favorite Letter: U, S & T
Best Friends: Mom, Sawyer, Ethan & Ashley, Dad, Mom and Carson
Favorite Place to Go: I wanna go to Boondocks, Can I go to Boondocks...
Favorite Game: Starwars
Favorite Food: Mac & Cheese
Favorite Nut: Nutty
Favorite Drink: Juice, just juice, I wanna drink juice
Favorite Number: 9

He was pretty funny. I have no idea what Starwars game he was referring to, but when I asked him if he was sure he repeted "Starwars". He has become such a little boy! I love him and am so happy and honored to have him as my very own. Hugs and kisses, Carson!

Look Who's Walkin...

2008-10-09T21:38:00.000-07:00

Well, almost...

Mr & Mrs Steve Lacey

2008-10-06T19:18:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the happy couple!! Steve and Amber were married on Saturday, October 4th. It was a gorgeous day, despite the rain the day before. They moved the ceremony inside since Amber's heels sunk in the wet grass! Not a HUGE surprise, but Carson got a little too nervous to go through with the ring delivery. He took 2 steps out and turned around to find safety. At least he tried and didn't make a scene or take away from the bride's entry (and he looked awful handsome in his tux).

The setting was beautiful, the bride was gorgeous, the groom made me tear up he was so handsome and happy, the toasts were PERFECT. Scott started out saying that "Steve and Amber are proof positive that you can get ANYTHING at Bel Aire" (the grocery store where they both worked)...very funny!

I didn't get nearly as many pictures as I had hoped, but I'll post what I have. Their photographers were awesome though. EVERY picture I was going to take, they already took! The girl was crazy about Grace :) I can't wait to see them!

Maddie and Sweden...almost twins!
Grace is almost as happy as Amber
Carson is almost as handsome as Steve
Carson took a little nap before the wedding (after about 2 seconds in the car!)
Grandma loves Sweden

Steve trying on his tux

This is the ONLY close up picture I got of Amber (boo). Her dress was beautiful and the cake...mmmmmm...the cake....

FIVE years in November...and still smiling (most of the time) ;)
We took one of the centerpieces out to Shawn's headstone. He was terribly missed that day. I kept remembering how grown up and handsome he looked on his wedding day and know that he would have loved Amber. She has been the silver lining on the dark cloud.

We love you Steve and Amber and wish you all the happiness in the world!!!

Crazy Ducks!

2008-09-17T11:04:00.000-07:00

So the "Feeding the Ducks" last Saturday must have made quite the impression on Carson. He asks to go EVERYDAY now! I told him I would take him to the park and then we would go up to the lake at Daybreak and try to find some ducks to feed IF he could help me get the toys put away, get dressed, etc. WOW...he threw the toys in the bucket so fast and ran to his room to find some clothes...I guess he was excited. So we drove up to the park at the corner and played for a while. I was secretly hoping he would forget about the ducks, but not a chance.

After the park we drove up to the lake and spotted some hungry looking ducks. The second we got out of the car the herd/gaggle/swarm of ducks came running toward us. I had barely gotten Grace in the stroller and the popcorn out of the car when they started barking at us! It was actually quite intimidating! Carson ran off to pick up rocks (because "ducks like rocks") and left Grace and I holding the bag of popcorn. I we tossed it out by the handful as Grace squealed with delight. She loves animals! When the last bit of popcorn was tossed, the ducks were still crazy excited. Grace had her hand stretched out trying to "pet" one and it nipped at her! So the fun was over, we grabbed Carson and ran to the car...ducks chasing and all.

Feeding The Ducks

2008-09-14T22:38:00.000-07:00

Carson and I had a fun morning together yesterday. We went to Murray Park to feed the ducks and then went to the Men's Warehouse with my dad to get fitted for tuxedos for Steve and Amber's wedding. Watch out...he's a heartbreaker!!! We had a great time. I love my little guy more than life itself!!!

Mother of the Year Award...AGAIN?

2008-09-12T13:06:00.000-07:00

We have a vicious little cycle at our house. Grace takes a monster nap in the morning (like 2 hours long), so she's just waking up when I want to put Carson down. So after lunch I'll put him down, then Grace about a half hour later. Grace chatters away in her room while Carson's quiet, then as soon as she's quiet, he has to go potty or something...back and forth until about 3 when I give up. No one naps and we are all grouchy.

So today, I put them both down around 1. Grace wasn't tired, but I thought we'd try anyway. 10 minutes into my quiet time alone, Carson has to go potty. So I take him in the bathroom and then back to bed when his business is done. 5 minutes later, Grace is quiet. "Wow" I think, "that was easy". 5 minutes later, Carson has to go poop. GREAT! (We are still working on that one). So I take him in, he works it out, and we go to the kitchen for a smarshmallow for going poop in the toilet. Then it's back to bed...this naptime should go perfectly!! 10 minutes later "Mom, I have to pee." "Go to bed" I said...there is no way he has to pee again! "Can I go now?", "No", "How 'bout now?", "No, go to bed", "Now?", "Carson-GO TO BED" 5 minutes later he's crying because he peed his pants.

How bad do I feel? Not only did I force my newly potty trained son to pee his pants, but we also woke up Grace when we cleaned him up! Crappy naps today. Crappy feeling mom today. Maybe we'll all do better tomorrow! :)

The Family Retreat

2008-09-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post some of the pictures I took from the trip to Heber with the Anderson Family. Beck, Matt, Brianna, Asia, Liz, Dave and Aubrie couldn't make it and they were very much missed! Here are some pics to make you feel as if you were there!

View from the back deckJames with the kids in the hot tub Grace and Grandpa enjoying the afternoon

Jake and Carson swatting flies

We had a wonderful time and Carson can't stop talking about the "Cabin". We can't wait to go next year!! Love to you all!!!

Tag...I'm It

2008-08-22T07:56:00.000-07:00

Normally I really enjoy talking about myself. I don't do it on purpose, but when listening to a friend (or more likely, a sister) vent about a situation, I always seem to turn the subject to me. Yes, I know, an annoying habit, but one that is extremely hard to break!! Anyway, here is my opportunity...

3 Joys:

- Surprises - gifts, visitors, flowers...etc :)

- Fall - I love the smell, feel, look...everything but the inevitable coming of winter!

- Sweets - chocolate, candy...really anything with too much sugar and fat!

3 Fears:

- Spiders

- Bugs

- Moths

3 Surprising Facts:

- I enjoy making spreadsheets. Sometimes I do it just for fun.

- I played softball from 4th to 7th grade and really stunk at it! For some reason I kept playing. My friends were good so I guess I figured I was good too!! My last game EVER was an All Star team. When I got up to bat, I could hear the whole crowd go "uuuuuuhhhhhh". Three strikes, no swings...it's over...forever. I guess that's not really surprising, given my lack of coordination and physical exertion, but kind of funny (and sad).

- I can sell just about anything on KSL. I once sold a used dog run for almost twice what we paid two years prior. Not on purpose, but it just turned out that way. I have a used baby bathtub posted right now...we'll see how that plays out! :)

Well, that's it...thanks Lisa!

Sue...tag, you're it! (that means you actually have to update your blogspot!) :)

Aquarium

2008-08-13T22:17:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, our family met Liz, Dave and Aubrie at the Aquarium in Sandy. It was a lot of fun. Jake told Carson we were going to see jelly fish. Carson perked up and asked, "should we bring nets, Dad?" (thanks spongebob). We saw jelly fish, star fish, sharks, and stingrays. Grace liked it all, as long as she was at a safe distance. :) Carson got to drive a boat and stuck his hand in the water to touch a stingray. He went in a cave to see some fish and came out saying "Dad, that's Finding Nemo!". Grace did a lot of pointing (her newest trick).

A little tidbit we picked up from the trip:

An early pioneer, Jim Bridger, is thought to be the first white man to reach the Great Salt Lake. When he reached the water and tasted that it was salty, he thought he was in the arm of the ocean. If only it were....

Ring Bearer Practice

2008-07-29T09:02:00.000-07:00

Steve and Amber have graciously asked Carson to be the ring bearer in their wedding. He will be about 2 weeks shy of 3 years old. We have about 2 months before the wedding so we started practicing this morning. I assure you all...he will NOT have the Binky for the ceremony!!!!! Man I'm nervous! :)

Grace is one!!

2008-07-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

Grace turned one on the 12th! I can't believe how fast the year has gone. We celebrated in the morning at the park. She tried to eat her cake by herself, but she couldn't stand the sticky on her hands!! She had so much fun that she couldn't stay awake for the 5 minute drive home!!! Oh my gosh, I LOVE HER!!! :)

"Daddy's Going to Take Me Camping"

2008-07-19T12:29:00.001-07:00

Last weekend I was reading Curious George Goes Camping to Carson and I told him that next weekend I would take him camping and start a fire. It kinda slipped out when I got caught up in the excitement of reading the story. He woke up the next day, walked out of his room and the first thing out of his mouth was "Mom, daddy's going to take me camping and roast shmarshmellows!" Needless to say I was committed at that point. I have to go to San Antonio next week and I was a little worried about taking on too much before the trip. So, we decided to spend the evening in the canyon and call it camping. It seemed like no big deal to jump in the car and roast a few hot dogs and shmarshmellows, but Shell and I were both wishing we had a few more hands. The kids had fun though. Carson got to throw rocks in the river. He says "they go ska-doosh like Kung Fu Panda." We started up a fire together, made messy s'mores and explored. Good times.

Elton John

2008-07-12T14:46:00.000-07:00

Carson got these cheesy glasses from Artic Circle. He's right, he looks like Elton John!

Is it REALLY worth it???

2008-07-09T13:50:00.001-07:00

Lisa, Abby, Brynn and the new minivan came to pick up Carson, Grace and I for a fun little outing downtown this morning. We have been talking about going to play in the water at the Gateway for a while and instead of prolonging it, we decided to just do it. We left our house around 9 and drove downtown. The van drives like a dream. It was hard to believe there were FOUR children in the back! Carson kept saying "This is going to be so much FUN!" over and over the whole way there!

We parked. First thing...Grace has a poopy diaper. OK, easy enough, she's changed. We walked outside to find that we were there before any stores were open. So we thought we'd make an even MORE fun adventure and ride Trax to the Church History Museum. After getting all 4 kids out of 2 double strollers, loading the strollers and the kids on the train, riding the train 2 blocks to Temple Square, unloading the strollers and the kids off the train and back in to the strollers...it was time for a bathroom break! It was a gorgeous morning at Temple Square! Too bad Grace was upset. We could have walked around all morning looking at the beautiful flowers. Instead, I gave her a bottle and hoped she'd go to sleep. No luck. We walked across the street to the Museum. The kids LOVED it! Abby and Brynn dressed up like shepherds and Carson colored and played with a puzzle.

Back to Trax. This time we were a little more experienced and knew what to expect. Still, it's a little scary to have such little ones running around when your hands are full with the stroller! By now things were hopping at Gateway! Kids were EVERYWHERE! It took a while for the kids to get into it, but once they did it was GREAT.

When it was time to go home, Abby and Brynn quickly and quietly got back in their stroller. Grace played with an apple. Carson kicked, screamed, ran... A short time-out and we were back in business.

When we finally made it back to the car, Lisa and I wondered if it was worth it. We are now in to our second hour of naptime...yes, it was worth it!

Fun with cousins!!

2008-06-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

My sister, Stephanie, and her 3 kids - Davis (12), Parker (10) and Maddie (6) - came to stay with us for almost two weeks. I feel like I hardley even saw Carson the entire time!! He and Grace had so much fun. They just left yesterday, so today seems extra quiet and uneventful...we're just trying to get back on some kind of schedule (preferably one that doesn't start at 8am and end at 11pm - with no nap in the middle!!)

Anyway, we enjoyed Abby and Aubrie in the middle of all the chaos as well. We love our cousins and wish they could all come play all the time!

Gracie's on the move!

2008-06-11T17:55:00.001-07:00

Gracie FINALLY started crawling!! She made her first "real" attempt a couple of weeks ago and now she's cruising around like crazy! Her poor knees are really beat up and she has a bruise on her cheek from doing a face plant on the kitchen floor, but she is HAPPY. We put the gate up over the weekend. Carson hates it, but he'll learn to deal (hopefully).

Grace is also cutting FOUR teeth. Her top four front teeth all decided to come in at the same time. She's handling it fairly well, but we are really anxious to get our "easy going" baby girl back!

Carson has been really cute lately. His new thing is he wants to be "Best Friends Forever". When he gets in trouble he gets really pouty and says "But, I want to be best friends FOREVER, Mom!" Thanks Spongebob. :)

Pictures with Grandpa

2008-05-29T22:09:00.001-07:00

I forgot I was going to attach some pictures of Grandpa and Carson fixing a weed eater.

A little of this, a little of that...

2008-05-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

We joined a new gym yesterday!! The daycare is awesome and both Carson and Grace do really well in there. This probably means no more tumbling class for Carson, which is actually ok since they don't really "teach" him anything anymore. He has pretty much perfected the somersault and the balance beam loses it's excitement after about 5 minutes. It was fun, but I think this new adventure will be great for all of us (at least for the summer!).

Our Memorial weekend was wonderful. It was the first "summer" holiday that Jake has spent guilt/worry free with his family. The job he has right now allows him to actually take days off in the summer (imagine that!). So we went to breakfast with Grandma and Grandpa A and Liz and Aubrey. Then we came home for naps (that didn't ever really happen) and then Grandpa came over to fix an outlet in the garage. It rained pretty hard off and on all day so we didn't barbecue or visit cemeteries like we had planned, but had a great day anyway.

Grace crawled this weekend! She's still pretty reluctant, but it's only a matter of time before she's all over the place and in to everything! I don't have a clip of it yet...I'll try again this afternoon. Every time she sees the camera she gets all cheesy and won't perform!

What a beautiful smile

2008-05-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

Guess who had his first dentist appointment this morning....no...not Jake, Carson!!! Can I say how proud I am of him?!?! He sat still, opened wide, opened wider, let the hygienist clean his teeth, rinsed and spit...the whole works! Then he picked out a prize (which broke before we even got to the car). He has no cavities and "perfectly spaced little teeth".

We used Carson as the guinea pig to check out the new dentist, and now Jake and I have to go and be just as well behaved next week!! I hope we get a prize.

P.S...Gracie has a pretty great smile too!!

Cwoowewwa, Cwoowewwa, Deviwwwe

2008-05-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

I just realized I could upload this video! We were all sitting on the bed one Saturday morning watching 101 Dalmations (AGAIN) and Carson burst out in song with Roger! It was so cute! We knew he had seen the movie at least 101 times, but who knew he could sing along?!?! Amazing!

Here we are...

2008-05-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

Ok, so Beck and Matt have the cutest little blogspot, so we decided to join in the fun! We don't write nearly as eloquent as they do, but with the spellcheck available, I'm sure we can make for some nice, leisure reading.