Families Are Forever

Carsonisms

2012-01-19T19:03:00.000-08:00

such a funny boy my son.

here are some of his sayings and interactions of late.

"mom, what's your deal?" --i guess I've said this a few times

carson: i need a thing mom.
mom: ok. what thing
carson: a thing I can use
mom: use for what
carson: cleaning this mess (there is no mess around)
mom: ok, how about a rag
carson: how about two. one for you to help.

"mom, stop being a butt!" ---seriously!? Ok, yes I do say this. often. to his dad. seriously though?! Ahh...

singing I am a child of God (loudly) "Lead me, guide me, how I miss you!" he knows its wrong but thinks its hilarious

V.T. today: Carson what's your favorite show
carson: (barely audible) lewis
V.T: what, I couldn't hear you.
carson: oh, hmmm...
V.T: (to me) he's so cute
carson: (loudly interrupting) Meet the robinsons!
He remembered that lewis was not the name of the movie and corrected himself. proud mommy moment

Carson is the language police at our house. he will call out anyone who uses a bad word. and then try and put them in time-out. unfortunately, he doesn't understand that but is different than butt. so most people say bad words around him.

mom: carson, here is your apple, come sit down.
carson: no thanks
mom: why?
carson: cause i don't like you
says this to multiple questions that have nothing to do with his preferences of people or things. it also doesn't matter who is asking.

Love that little crazy. He really is super fun to have around

New Years 'goal' Numero Uno

2012-01-17T17:32:00.000-08:00

As posted to Facebook yesterday, "Ok, I'm ready for the new year to begin. So for me, Today is Jan. 1st."

Which would make today January 2nd. Before now I've still been in vacation mode and trying to get 2011 wrapped up. I just got back on Sunday from being in SA for my brother Garrett's homecoming. (YAY!) he was in Norway on his mission. We LOVE having him home!

Anyway so now that I'm not leaving in the near future and Christmas is packed and the house is back to normal messes....We can move onto 2012!!

Starting today I am going on a 7 day Cabbage Soup Cleanse. The holidays, my cruise, etc were not kind to me in the feel-good-about-my-body department so I want to start anew and get back on a healthy track. I made the cabbage soup last night and am ready to go today. My hubby is doing it with me so hopefully together we can do it! We are also having a competition of sorts with personal goals to lose some weight. (get in shape). More to come later.

But today is Soup & Fruit day. I can have all the cabbage soup and fruit I want. yummy?!

We'll see how it goes :)

Fall--Football, Pumpkins & Leaves

2011-12-05T05:59:00.001-08:00

At the Pumpkin Patch

Waving to Grandpa at Jake's Football game

Goo was such a good sport!

There and Back Again....

2011-12-05T05:51:00.001-08:00

I think maybe I'll just post the pics and basically be done from our summer trip.

Here is our last stop of World Tour '11
Spokane. With all the Daines' Family.

Some of us LOVED the tubes...

Others not so much.

The 'big kids' get a bit rough---

But Carson always wants in on the action!

After awhile he's content to just be in the boat

There was lots of great cousin time

Grandpa time at the helm

Isn't my Boy super cute!

We had 5 of us do our SCUBA diving certification. Emi, Nathans, Lindsey, Mindy, and Dad had completed theirs earlier in the year. David, Pam, Jake, Emily S., and myself all did it the first 3 days we were there. We started in the pool for beginning training and then passed the test in Coeur d' Alene Lake.

I might look really happy here...but it doesn't show how nervous I was about the whole thing.

David sailed through it all and I think enjoyed most of it!

We did it though, and we're ready for Cozumel and Grand Caymen!

We made it home just in time for everyone to start school. The kids and I were SO ready to be home after a month. It was a great trip though, with so much excitement and lot and LOTS of familY!

There and Back Again...part 2

2011-11-03T17:43:00.000-07:00

See, I'd get to it someday....

Back to our Summer:
Week 3

City #5, Brigham City, UT

Monday morning, after we had loaded the boats, trailers, and tons of food---we headed up to Brigham City for the Facer Family Reunion. We have this every 2 years at the same spot. Its a camp ground with a nice little lake.

We wakeboard, wake-surf, tube, sunbathe, and have an awesome time!

Chelsea,who had recently learned to crawl, got FILTHY! What was I going to do? Not let her down--yeah right. I went thru an entire Costco baby wipe package.

These 3 are 2 months apart. Hank and Jeffrey are born on the same day

We taught each other lots of cool, new tricks

The WORST part of vacation was the sickness. While in Provo, the kids and I all got a cold. Achy, runny noses, sore throat, the works. It wasn't fun. Then on the 4th morning of our camping trip I woke up around 5am and went into the bathroom (yes they do have a disgusting bathroom). I walked right past Angie and threw up in the toilet. Soon after, my mom came in from "getting some air" and told me she wasn't feeling well. Angie then piped up and said she'd thrown up twice already. As I was moaning in the stall, Andelyn came in to tell me that Carson had just thrown up all over the tent trailer. Great.

Throughout the next 24 hours, out of my parents and siblings, everyone got it except Chelsea and my dad. It was awful! I couldn't decide if it was awful because I was sick camping or wonderful because I had help with kids because my dad was there to help.

We packed up on Saturday morning..with James and Canon throwing up. I was finally better since my 24 hours were up. The flu continued to make its way around the entire Facer clan...all 105 of us! We drove straight to the airport so that the kids and I could get on a plane and fly to Seattle. From there we would fly to S______ for the Daines reunion!

Chelsea is ONE

2011-10-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday my baby girl.

We are so blessed to have you in our family! We love your easy going, carefree, wonderful personality.

You're easy to please, quick to find humor, & frequently self-entertained.

From the very beginning you've been such an easy baby.

Its fun watching the difference between you and your brother.

He is crazy, loud, & a total mama's boy.

You are calm. You like to observe, not really participate in Carson's business.

You love your independence--and you love your mommy too!

By your 1st birthday...

You had 4 teeth

You were able to take 3 steps at a time

Most nights you slept from 8 to 9

You still prefered to nurse or drink a bottle

Your blankie is your favorite thing

18 month clothes are your size

Yogurt, bananas, bread, and beans were

favorite foods

Mommy loves you Chels.

Thanks for being the perfect 2nd child. It makes me excited and hopeful for a 3rd someday.

Don't leave the baby stage too fast..I know the next year is going to fly by!

Waiting

2011-10-10T14:14:00.000-07:00

Today (and for the last several days) I have been waiting for....

*The weather to get cooler. I really am ready for 50-60 degrees. I want to wear jeans and longsleeves and not get hot playing outside. I am ready for jackets & fuzzy crocs, hot chocolate & spiced cider.

*The holidays. With cooler weather comes decorations, fall baking, holiday shopping, birthdays, & family time. I already told David that the Christmas decor is going up after Halloween this year. I love pies, caramel apples, all the food of the season. I love family football, late night games, caroling, and wrapping presents. I love warm fall colors and bright Christmas colors. I love the nativity story and think maybe this year it will make more sense to my children. I love smiling neighbors, door bell suprises, & people bustling about as they conquer their own holiday agenda. I really love this time of year.

*David to finish school. I know, I know, he is not even halfway thru. I miss my husband. I miss Saturdays. It is no longer a family day. Just another day without Dad. We don't have the whole family cuddle time in Mom and Dad's bed because he is always absent. I am grateful for the opportunity that he has to go to school and the sacrafice is worth it. But I'm waiting.

*My brother to come home. Elder Facer will be home from Norway Janurary 12. Just today he wrote in his email of his relief that he was once again reassured of that departure date and not the sooner possibility. I have to feel a little guilty for in his joy, is my dissapointment. I wish he was going to be home for Christmas. I am stoked that Seth, Hansen, and Angie will be there. I can't wait to see them!!! It would be perfect if Garrett was going to be there too. Guess he's a better person than I am. Who can blame him? He wants to serve the Lord in that capacity for as long as he can.

*My friends to come see me. Doesn't any one want to come see me? I come back to visit them...and I look forward to it SO much. Maybe its not recipricol. Or maybe its not as easy I think it is.

*A car. We knew that a new car was enevitable in the next few years. David's just doesn't have the life capacity to hold out for long. It seems like it may have served its time. To fix its most recent repair might not be worth the cost of the vehicle. David won't drive it to work since we aren't sure how reliable it is--and I absolutely HATE driving the thing. Let's just say I wasn't there when he bought it. That was pre-Malerie era. That leaves us with the next decision. What do we do...and what do we get...and how much do we spend?

*That right feeling that we're ready for another baby. I can't believe I was already 8 weeks pregnant with Chelsea when Carson was her age now. He seemed so much older than she is. So much less baby like. Did I mentally make him older because I was expecting another? Maybe, but Chels is still my baby for now. I do miss the little newborn/infant stages. I think I'll always love that. I'm just not ready for another human being in the family. Babies do grow up! For now my two are perfect. But that third will come, sometime.

*The exercise bug to bite me. Maybe I will NEVER have that push, that desire to have a consistant roustine. I know what I don't like, but there are things that I DO like. Why can't that be enough? Why do I have to make it happen? Why do I have to have a lengthy conversation with myself titled, "To work out now or not", only to have it fizzle and die with "NOT". Anyone have tips?

*My kids to wake up. They are both down for a nap (yay!) but---I'm ready to see them again. To hug and kiss their cheeks. I LOVE my kids! I miss them when they're right here, in the house, sleeping! Isn't that funny? They're just great kids like that. You always want them around.

I guess I'll just keep playing the waiting game. Its one I don't particularly mind.

Chelsea: Months 10 & 11

2011-10-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

I guess since my goo will turn 1 next week!!!....I better finish a post about her before then!

Here is a picture timeline. You can see how much she grew & changed over the summer.

My fat baby girl :-)

this was a favorite skill for a long time

I love these shoes!! I think they're adorable. I didn't buy them but once she starts walking.....

This is how my Chels throws a fit....make sure everyone is watching...

...and then really show them how tough life is!

Her first ponytail

The two kids have really started playing together; its so fun to watch.

Just last week Chels finally got tooth #3 in. She hasn't really been interested in walking. Sometimes she will lean forward to walk but can't and topples over. She then crawls on ahead like nothing happened. We'll see what happens in the next little while.

I'll probably be more verbal in her 12 month post and give details then!

We love you little girl!

Cleaning Secret!

2011-09-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

Just cleaned my bathroom glass shower doors....and ALL the soap scum came off!

I used the bathroom specific magic eraser. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath Scrubber. It took me all of 10 min to clean my shower and that was with 2 kids "helping" and me maneuvering around them. (no harsh chemicals to worry about inhaling) It was wipe, swipe and dry. I used the eraser first--just wiped it down...no real elbow grease, then used a squeegee, and then dried with paper towels.

Shower is now spotless! LOVE IT!

Carson Lately

2011-09-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Self-inflicted time out?? not sure

Oh my boy,
How mommy loves you.

it was105 degrees outside but he would not take off this jacket

"Please can I have these shoes mom? They light up!"

This morning Carson runs up to me, "Mom, I need sugar." WHAT?!

Lately he is very good at telling me what's what.

CARSON: Goobies' awake!!

ME: Chels is NOT awake.

CARSON: Goobies' IS awake.

ME: no, she's not. She's still sleeping.

CARSON: no is not sleeping....

5 min interlude.

CHELSEA: stirring...

CARSON: Goobies' awake!!
----wonder how that happened-----

He is a great big brother...always in her way, keeping things away from her, teaching her what not to do...Maybe he has a few things backwards.

The world still comes to an end every time I wash his blanket.

Tells me he loves me at least 5 times a day....he will sign it too.

precious cargo

He had been asleep for 2 hrs in the car and woke up just seconds before this

Dinner: Fish Tacos

2011-09-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

I want to keep a record of some of my meals so that on the nights that I can't think of ANYTHING to fix...I'll just refer to my blog for ideas. This is what we ate last night

Fish Tacos

I breaded tilapia loins in Italian breadcrumbs mixed with plain panko. I dredged the loins in flour first, then egg yolk and then the breadcrumbs. I fried it in a pan with enough oil so that the loins were at least halfway submerged. About 5 min on each side.

Then just toppings
sour cream
avocado
tomatoes
lettuce
beans
tomatillo salsa
cheese
nectarines
cabbage
salsa

There and Back Again

2011-09-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

a novel (because it will take FOREVER to finish) by: Malerie

Ok so this summer we left our house for a month long vacation involving 7 cities, 30 hours of driving, 10 hours of flying, and a TON of stuff in between.

IT WAS CRAZY! I'll do my best to recap our adventures.

We left our house on Sunday to drive 5 hours down to my parents house in Sa_____. We hung out there for a few days playing with siblings, gparents, uncles, an aunt...blah blah blah. The best part was riding in the wagon. Here are those pics.

On Wednesday around 7pm we had my parents suburban loaded with 15+ bags, a pack 'n play, SUV stroller, probably 15 pillows (for 8 people) dvds, food, and the tent trailer hitched in back. We drove through the night 14 hours to AZ. The kids sorta slept. They woke up several times and I'd nurse Chels back to sleep and then try to get some shut-eye myself. Lets just say I won't be driving through the night again.

Cities Vail & Tucson, AZ

My Grandparents (mom's side) and my mom's sister Tracy & family live in AZ. I'm really glad I got to visit them. I think it had been 6 years since I'd been to my gparents house! We went to the zoo...

Carson would not leave this tractor alone. It was his favorite "attraction" at the zoo or "bee-youm" as he calls it. Not that it sounds at all like zoo.

it was SO hot I had to keep getting the kids' hair wet to cool them off

The zoo was actually really fun...and it was one of the quickest trips to the zoo I've ever experienced!

While in AZ we also played in my aunt's pool, went to In n out several times, and had a really fun time visiting with my cousins there. (they are closer in age to my sibling and my own children so they all had a blast playing with one another). Carson still to this day tells me he want to go to Aunt Tracy's house.

We ate good food, played with toys that I used to play with as a kid, played Shanghai, talked, and really had a great time!

Really not sure how this happened....poor Goo

City # 4, Provo UT

After 4 full days of fun, we left Monday around noon to make the 13 or so hour drive up to UT. We got in around 1:30am and that was SO much better than all night long. Aw Utah. Home.

Provo House,
Family,

Such a great depiction of their relationship

Memories,

BBQs,

Games,

Best Friends,

really unsure of what I'm doing

Learning,

Bonding,

Cousins,

Aunts & Uncles,

Food,
Siblings,

LOVE

Do I even dare say that this was my favorite part of my vacation....? It was just peaceful and warm, comforting, and familiar. I love coming back home.

I loved seeing old friends, meeting new ones, and remembering why I LOVE being me. Thanks to the Gill's for letting us stay with you! It was so great to be in your home again.

To be continued......

30 Day Challenge

2011-09-02T19:34:00.000-07:00

Day 20: A picture of your favorite book

What classifies as favorite? I figured that since I have read, and re-read these books several times....that probably fits the best reason of being a favorite. I've really enjoyed other books but have a read them over and over again???

I find the story wildly entertaining, easy to read, easy to become absorbed in, etc. It's a silly love story but a am a hopeless romantic!

30 Day Challenge

2011-08-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

Day 19: A picture of someone who inspires you

My mother-in-law, Donna. If I could be half as organized, calm, patient, relaxed, and strong as her...I think I'd be pretty incredible. Every time I see her interact with people...I am amazed at how incredible she is.

A woman of so many strengths and gifts....yet so quiet and reserved. She could give fantastic advice constantly but instead she lives her life and those who watch can pick up what they will from her. She is the best of mother-in-laws in that respect. I learn so much from her about how to love her son. Thanks DONNA!

30 Day Challenge

2011-08-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

Day 18: A picture of an indulgence (food)

I really love ice cream. Cones, bowls, milkshakes...love it all. I also love how cold my lips are after I eat it...and then I love a kiss :) Its a fun feeling....try it if you haven't!

30 Day Challenge

2011-08-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

Day 17: A picture of someone you miss

Started crying....

I love you Elder Facer! Words can't express how proud I am to be your sister. Can't wait to have you home!!

30 Day Challenge

2011-08-24T18:59:00.000-07:00

Day 16: A picture of the place you want to travel to most

I'm kinda thinking a Mediterranean cruise might be nicely incorporated with a visit to Greece.

30 Day Challenge

2011-08-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Day 15: A picture of you and the person you have done the craziest stuff with

Winter 2002
One person comes to mind...no contest.

Kel, without you I would be a boring stick in the mud...thanks for teaching me to be silly, to laugh at myself, and that best friends are friends forever.

30 Day Challenge

2011-08-23T11:55:00.000-07:00

Day 14: A picture of something you regret

As I look back through my life I find myself wishing I had tried more things.

I should have gone out for more things in High School, or tried different activities when they were available or even tried different foods. I went years without eating sushi because I wouldn't try it.....oh how i LOVE sushi!

Maybe this is why I just certified last week for SCUBA Diving. (Which was great!) I want to try things at least to see if I like them or not so that my decision is based on experience.

I think I will always ask my kids this... and also live by example...,

"How do you know you don't like it...if you haven't tried it first?"

30 Day Challenge

2011-08-23T10:11:00.000-07:00

Day 13: A picture of something you want to do before you die

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

Day 12: A picture of your favorite band/artist

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

Day 11: A picture of something you LOVE

I love water. I love to bathe in it, swim in it, soak it up. I love the weightless feeling of being encompassed by water. I also love to drink it.

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-22T15:42:00.000-07:00

Day 10: A picture of something you HATE

Snow, snap, soy...all ok. But peas like this...YUCK!

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Day 9: A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most

I love you daddy. Thanks for showing me how to be the BEST

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-18T11:33:00.000-07:00

Day 8: A picture that makes you laugh

Mimi--I love you...and I miss you!

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

Day 7: A picture of a treasured item

Other than people...which is obvious; this is what I thought fit perfectly.

My father-in-law gave me this charm and bracelet. He actually gave one to all the girls in the family. He gives us some kind of jewelry every year for Christmas. This was the first...and I wear it all the time. I think the tradition is very sweet and something I treasure.

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-16T09:18:00.000-07:00

Day 6: A picture of the person you would trade places with for one day

I would love to stand on stage and sing for thousands of people, live in the lime light, soak up stardom for one day....and then go back home to my beautiful kids and awesome husband. I love my life and think its the greatest. So I don't feel bad for just one day of a different view.

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-15T06:46:00.001-07:00

Day 5: A picture of your night

We went to a private screening of HP at 6:30pm last night

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-14T08:19:00.000-07:00

Day 4: A picture of the person you are closest to

Of course its him.

Today we celebrate our 4 year wedding anniversary...I love you babe!

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-13T16:01:00.000-07:00

Day 3: A picture of a favorite memory

Most of my favorite memories involve these people right here

-spinning around the living room floor to music

-sliding down the mattress on the stairs

-jumping onto the tramp from swing sets, post, etc

-wrestling

-playing games

I love you guys! Seriously, I have the best siblings EVER!

Chelsea Month:9

2011-07-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

Time is just flying by....My Princess is getting older.

This month has been a little bit more challenging for our Goo. I'll mention the events and you can probably figure out why:)

-Went to Spokane, WA for a week. Carson and the other cousins age 2+ went to Gramma Camp and Mom & Aunt Pam hung out with the babies

-Got her first tooth!!

-Can now pull herself up to EVERYTHING

-Would much rather nurse than eat any other way

-Slept 12-14 hours straight 15% of the month..with encouragement from mom (crying it out)

-Had a fever and cold/flu separate from teething

-Changed her mind and now grass is too pokey to touch or sit on

-Decided she doesn't want to be in any other room but the one mom is in

She's growing up, our GOO.

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-12T14:45:00.000-07:00

Day 2: A picture of the cast from your favorite T.V. show

I know, I know, probably shouldn't be true...but I love watching re-runs over and over and over again!

30 Day Challenge

2011-07-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

Day 1: A picture of you and 15 things about yourself

-I love to sing but am terrified to perform

-My favorite color is red

-I LOVE to eat, and eat, and eat!

-I need 8-9 hours of sleep a night...MINIMUM

-Being a mom is the BEST job I've ever had....and the most work!

-I need my family--parents, siblings, in-laws, etc.

-Chocolate milk is my favorite thing to drink

-I have a testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ

-I miss living in UT

-I love the heat. Sometimes I like to get super hot and feel the warmth spread through me.

-My weakness is television/movies

-It bugs me when people don't clear the microwave timer

-I love to chew ice but never can due to the hubby's dislike

-Napping outside is one of my favorite ways to relax

-I love to do crafts even though I'm not great at them

thanks to my sisters, andelyn and angie for this idea...i think I need to remember a bit more about myself:)

Super

2011-07-11T07:04:00.000-07:00

My boy is a Super! boy

Everything lately is super to him...

"Mom, Super Cool!"

"Mom, it's Super cold "

"Go Super fast!"

It sounds a bit more like booper when he says it though

Super, Super, SUPER cute!

Things They DID Get From Me

2011-06-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the things the kids got from me...

-Scruched nose when smiling really big! (both kids)

-Loud (both)

-redish tint in their hair (both)...with a little help from dad most likely

-Long tongue (chels)

-Eczema (both)

-Love to sing (carson)

-super chuncky baby fat (both)

Chelsea Month:8

2011-06-20T19:34:00.000-07:00

I missed Chelsea's 7 month post...we've been SUPER busy!

Here are her latests...

--Loves to eat food. Eats everything but applesauce, pears, and greens.

--Has a mean grasp/pinch/slap
She loves to be up in your face and sometimes it HURTS!

--Is easily self entertained.

--Drinks out of cups whenever someone will share:)

--Likes when people give her attention..she smiles and coos, then goes back to her own thing

--Is CRAWLING

--Loves loves loves to crawl. She goes everywhere! She started crawling around june 5-6. So just before 8 months

--Will drink formula again! hello date night!!

--Still a chunker. I haven't weighed her in a while so I'm really not sure how big she is but...
-she uses size 5 diapers
-wears 12-18month clothes
-swimsuit is size 24 month
-has almost outgrown her infant carseat

This is the HAPPIEST girl EVER!!!!

What If This Were a Last

2011-06-08T06:05:00.000-07:00

I was Busy. "The List" was steadily increasing.
Carson was halfway into his nap and Chelsea was ready to go down. Then...time
Malerie time. Time to eat. Time to put on my make-up. Time to do laundry. Time to work on the budget. Time to blog. Time to catch up on my favorite show. Time to clean the house. Time to knit. Time to read. Time to work on my calling.

"Alright Chelsea, let's put you dowm for your..." Stop. What is that? Crying. Carson?? NO!!!
Way too early for him to be up. And usually he isn't crying.
Put Chelsea in her bed.
Go into his room. Pick my little boy up. He stops crying. Sit down to ask why he's crying but he puts his head on my shoulder. Ok, I can hold him for a sec.

He nestles in. Relaxes. Becomes calm.
He's falling asleep!
Alright, hurry and get into the "sleep mode" so that I can put you back down.
Chelsea has been faintly crying. She could use my help to fall alsleep.
Try to move...whimpers from Carson.
Ok, I'll wait.
Chels getting louder.
Stuck. Do I get up and hope he goes back down (unlikely at this point..he needs longer)... Do I wait and let Chelsea put herself to sleep.... I really need them both to sleep so I can see to that list.... I only have so much time....
Shhh. She's stopped. Good.
Almost get up. Wait.

Realize I'm holding my baby boy. My sweet darling Carson.
Realize he's falling asleep in my arms. His face is peace
Realize I love this moment.
Realize he is getting older.
Realize this may be one of the last times I get to hold my sleeping son.
Stay.

Things they did NOT get from me...

2011-06-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

I'm sure this list will grow and change but some things I've noticed lately...

--Clammy hands and feet (both kids)

--Blond hair (both)...i probably contributed but David had blond hair as a kid.

--Hands behind the head while sleeping (Carson)

--Liking mustard (Carson)

--Severe allergies (both)

--Love of Teasing (both)

Quack Quack

2011-06-06T19:43:00.000-07:00

Over Easter weekend, baby ducks born in Gramma and Grampa's pool area. The same day they were born, they took their first swim, and we got to be with them.

Carson Life

2011-06-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo update of our little boy

We went to the zoo on Memorial Day...he loved it!

Had to get in position when talking to Kellie one day.

I had no idea he had answered the phone and was really talking to her! I thought he was pretending.

It's amazing that he fell asleep while watching Veggie Tales

Just watching a show

This kid is all boy. We love it. He is quite the character and he is loved by all.

Love, Sweet Love

2011-06-03T14:48:00.001-07:00

WARNING: Photo overload!!!

These 2 crazy kids got married May 20th.

Mr. & Mrs. Hansen Facer

We LOVE angie and couldn't be happier for both of them!

Lazy Days

2011-04-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we have lazy days.

Handy Manny, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Special Agent Oso, or

Baby signing time....Plus lots of cuddle time and play time on mom's

bed!

We also have shower time...I love clean kids!!

Chelsea Month: 6

2011-04-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

There is so much to say about my little girl this month! Hopefully I'll get it all in...

Chelsea Mckinley 6 Months....
--21.6 lbs 29 in. (quick comparison...Carson was that heavy at 10 months and that tall at 9)
--Sits up all by herself
--Scoots around the room
--Gets up on all fours
--Still has to deal with eczema and impetigo infections

--Loves to swing at the park

--Will suck on my chin when she is hungry
--Laughs the hardest at her Big Brother
--Sleeps a total of 13 hours a night with usually 1 feeding in between
--Sucks on her toes a lot!
--Starting saying da-da-da-da and na-na-na-na
--Loves to suck on wet rags

Up until about 2 weeks, she would NOT eat solid foods. This video shows you just how strong her feelings were against it.

--Since this video, she has eaten sweet potatoes twice, bananas, and squash once. ( the last few days she hasn't wanted ANY solids though)

I'm sure there is more. But it will have to wait for another time and another post!

Chelsea's First Pickle

2011-04-07T12:35:00.000-07:00

This is our Daines tradition for each child.

Its a bit lengthy...sorry.

Ranch Style

2011-04-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

This was a fun weekend with my fam last month. Carson LOVED every minute. From the buggy, to the bike (4-wheeler), to the warm pool...he was one very happy camper!

"Where guys, mom?"

"Here Mal, stand there and shoot."
"Um, yeah ok, like this?"

I really don't know how we always get a picture of my face like this??!!

"Guys WAIT!"

And the Goo just hung out either in the jump-up, someones arms, or the closet!

Ok, funny story about our trip.

When we got there, we saw a few dead scorpions and 1 live one. That night before bed, I asked what it felt like to get stung by one. No one really knew. When we were all asleep, my dad woke up from my mom jumping out of bed, flinging the sheet off her, and saying, "OK!"

It was an "ok, now I know what it feels like to be stung by a scorpion!" It had stung her on the bum and for a while they couldn't find it. Then my dad swat at my moms leg cause it was clinging to the side of her leg! AH!

I am so glad it wasn't me! Or one of my kids. I would have flipped. Apparently it feels a lot like a bee sting and lasts only a few minutes and then it's just a bit sore to the touch for a day. No big deal but still. Way to go mom!

Chelsea Month:5

2011-03-23T19:04:00.000-07:00

I wish there were more moments in the day to sit and stare at my beautiful girl....also to write/brag about her. Guess I'll take what I can get.

*Has no interest in solid foods--at all!

*Rolls over from back to tummy

*Loves to be growled at

*Laughs at her brother when he isn't even doing anything

*When she is talking to you, she wants to have you close enough so that she can grab onto your face...more personal contact:)

*Slobbers like CRAZY

*Goo is getting SO big-- your arms hurt after 3 minutes of holding her! She is a hefty load.

WE LOVE YOU CHELSEA GOO!

My Favorite 2 year old

2011-03-02T10:12:00.000-08:00

Yes, a bit late...but that means I am busy living my life:)

Alright, back to Carson. Here are some of my favorite and most notable things about him.

--Lately when he wakes up, he SCREAMS for us to come get him.
--He asks about 20 times to got to Grama's house
--Carson has started to make deals with me. He will let me clip his nails if he gets to do mine after. He will have quiet time if I let him drink his milk on the couch, etc.
--Blankers and he are attached 24/7

--Carson has moved on from bottles and is now a full on sippie cup boy!
--He is slowing working towards no naps...this i am not too excited about
--I love these few sayings he has..
* "o, yes!"
* "Baby bine" for baby signing time
* "o-a mom" for ok mom
* " min an min, me; two" for two vitamins

I love that he is still a mama's boy but has grown quite close to his daddy. He is such a sweetheart...who loves to snuggle. He is very adventurous and always wants to do things independently.

We love you carson

Day in, Day out

2011-02-25T15:49:00.000-08:00

A peek into our days of late....

Its getting warmer...and we're getting ready for swim season.

Family home evening has been a very fun adventure!! We love teaching Carson (and Chelsea) about Jesus.

Pretty sure this is one of the cutest things ever!! I love her pink toes.

Mommy Moments

2011-02-18T20:11:00.001-08:00

As I was holding my little girl tonight, putting her to sleep, I had a few thoughts...as I usually do when I have quiet time without distraction. For my own benefit, I would like to jot them down. I think I'll try to do this occasionally as an added supplement to my journal.

Sometimes as a 'First-time Mom' we might feel like we are the young-ones of the group. Here are my personal feelings on that. And what I would tell every new mom out there.

You are the best mom ever. Just because you are a 'First-time Mom' doesn't mean you are inferior to other moms. Other moms are not better than you, nor are they or ever were a more experienced 'First-time mom'. No one gets to do their first child experience over again--whatever mistakes they made are past and they learn from them and keep on going. By the time a mom has child number 2, they have crossed over into 'First-time mother of 2'; it's all new territory and everything is new again with two.

So don't ever feel like someone might do it better, or that you are failing, or anything else. Your kid(s) are yours. Whether you have 1, 2, or 5 kids; no one is better than you. You are the BEST mom...because you are their mom---anyone besides you wouldn't measure up. Just keep going. Take some advice, mix it with your own intuition, and then dump the rest. You'll figure it out...and you'll LOVE the journey.

Birthday Celebrations

2011-02-16T14:04:00.001-08:00

Mickey Mouse cake made by Mama

Blowing Bubbles

Playing with balloons

Ripping open presents

Build a Bear workshop with Gramma

Mickey Mouse pancakes

Lots of Love and phone "Happy Birthday!"s from out of town family

Large and Lovin' it

2011-02-15T10:11:00.000-08:00

Chelsea M. 4 month stats

19.2 lbs--off the charts
a typical 10 month old weighs this much

27 in--off the charts
a typical 9 month old is this tall

Not sure where she got it all from...maybe her Uncle Hansen has the explanation. At least she is balanced.

2 2 2 2

2011-02-12T09:57:00.000-08:00

My Son is 2 today!

He loves his daddy
He loves the snow
He loves his blankie
He loves his sister

We Love our Carson Bugs! Happy Birthday

No, the snow is not from today. It was last weekend.

Chelsea Month:4

2011-02-10T12:39:00.000-08:00

I can't believe she is already 4 months old

I can't believe she is ONLY 4 months old

Funny that I feel both of these to be true.
Time is just flying by and yet I can't imagine when we didn't have our Chelsea Goo

*Chels loves her jump up. It gives her a better view of the world around her

*This is my smilely girl. She is super happy and such a great entertainer.

* She loves to play with her lips and tongue...we get lots of drool this way too!

*We still have a great sleeper on our hand. She sleeps 15 hours with 2, sometimes 1, feeding in between.

*Her favorite sleep position is on her side, her head stretched all the way back, and her back arched.

*Chelsea loves to play with her blankets. 9 out of 10 times when I go to get her from her crib she has the blanket pulled up over her face. Even if a tuck them in around her...she manages to find the edge and pull. She just loves to have something to hold. (recently mom's hair has become a favorite)

*Since she was 1 month old, Chels has had a HORRIBLE skin condition on her face. It started out as awful acne. Then went to rashy splotches and then to super dry patches.

It was always super red and inflammed and would go through a cycle of super dry, crack, ooze, look like a layer of skin had been burned off and then all over again. Plus it was very itchy and irritating to her. Poor girl!

We went to the dermatologist this month and he said is was eczema that has been infected with some sort of bacteria. (my poor kids get the eczema from me...sorry!) She is now on antibiotics and both a steroid and non-steroid cream medication. Hopefully we can keep it under control from now on.

I love how my girl smells and the way she gets super excited and flails her arms and legs when she's playing on the ground. I love the way her brother loves her and how he misses her when she's taking a nap. I love our mother/daughter conversations and that I still have many more hours of holding, rocking, and loving my baby. Happy 4 months sweetie girl!

Greatest moments from the past 7 days

2011-02-02T13:20:00.000-08:00

...Carson running down the hill at the park; his cheeks bouncing along

...My little family all in our bed cuddling to keep warm

...Chelsea looking at me--really looking at me in full recognition that I'm her mom and she loves me

...David snuggling with Chels while she tries to tell him about her day

...The rare night when both kids went to bed early.--This created a Mom and Dad ONLY evening. It was well spent

...Carson running towards me, arms open, "MAMA!" Love written in every line of his face

...Clean kitchen, vacuumed floors, toys in bins, bathroom shining

...Beautiful bright rays--allowing us to play at the park (69 degrees)

...Sparkling crisp snow--allowing Carson to experience winter (15 degrees)

Christmas Eve

2011-01-21T08:28:00.001-08:00

This year we went to the Gaylord for their ICE! display. It was A Charlie Brown Christmas theme. I had never seen the movie so the night before we watched it.

Before the display, we had a Breakfast Buffet with Charlie Brown himself. It was pretty good. The display was really cool---in more ways than one! As you can see from the parkas they distributed, it was sub zero temps. Luckily mine was big enough that I could wrap it around Chelsea in our MobyWrap. Although, apparently I looked pregnant again because of it!

They had a slide made out of ice that Carson went on. He liked it until he got to the end. Then he started crying--not sure what he had just been through.

p.s. sorry for the blogging overload...it's so unlike me. I just seem to have the time and things to blog about!

Better late than never

2011-01-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of our small family at Mindy and Nate's wedding in May of 2010.

It is a complete picture of our family...Chelsea is even there--(just in my tummy:)

Swingin' & Jammin'

2011-01-19T18:09:00.000-08:00

What is it with toddlers and putting their head down while swinging? Are they getting a rush?!

My fam came up a few days after Christmas and we had some fun with the Guitar Hero. Yeah baby.

The Bumbo

2011-01-18T14:30:00.000-08:00

If you have a child under 3...They might LOVE these!

I had one for Carson and just got it out recently for Chels. When he saw her in it...he wanted to use it. He would try and 'push' her out.

Needless to say, we needed another one. Now they both hang out in their bumbo:)

If your baby can pretty much hold up their head...the bumbo has enough back support for them to be in it. Usually around 3-4 months I think. It has a tray too so you can use it for feeding. I loved taking it traveling with me when carson was young. Insta-highchair.

M

2011-01-16T12:17:00.000-08:00

Chelsea Mckinley

Malerie Elizabeth (mother)

Mandy Lynn, Donna Marie (Grandmothers)

Duveene Mcdonald, Dixie Mae, Flora Matilda, Marion Nelson (Great-Grandmothers)

This is why our daughter had to have a name, first or middle, that started with 'M'. It is something that is VERY special to me. It might sound silly or not seem like a big deal, but I love the connection. Hopefully Chelsea (and any future daughters we may have) will realize that she comes from a heritage of great women. Women who are there for her always, who can each teach her something of worth. Perhaps she will connect deeply with one on a level that no one else will understand.

Heritage is something that I didn't always appreciate in my early life. But I have come to find a passion for it. I love where I come from. I love the family that makes me who I am.

I am grateful for my beautiful mother. A woman who doesn't even know how outstanding she is. I miss her daily and try so hard to talk to her often. Her impact on me is great. I think my feelings for my mother are too tender to conjure up the right words. So I hope the I LOVE YOU rings out true enough.

I am blessed with the best of Mother-in-laws. I love her very much. She has so much goodness in her. There is much that I can learn from her. Her quite example has taught me how to love her son, how to appreciate difference and to sometimes just laugh it off. I hope our closeness will deepen, because I love being around her.

In a talk given at the October 2010 General Conference, there was mention of the power of a name. It has stayed with me and the significance is important. I love how everything can be linked to the gospel. Perhaps this is why I felt so strongly that our daughter not only have a connection with her name, but also understand why. Our heritage is important and it should not be forgotten that part of our heritage is that of spiritual nature. We come from a loving Father in Heaven. We are his children and we bear His name upon us. This is something that I need to remember. Even when I am going about the house, picking up toys, doing laundry, dealing with spit-up and running noses. I have a heritage. How am I adding to it?

Here is the link to the talk I gave reference to:

http://lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/what-have-you-done-with-my-name-?lang=eng

Chels

2011-01-16T11:48:00.000-08:00

So I call our little girl 'Chels' all the time.

This weekend I notice Carson has added a new word to his vocab. 'Chels'

It is SUPER adorable!

Hmmph!

2011-01-15T08:28:00.001-08:00

My honey started school this week.

2 LONG years of homework, study groups, missed meals, and a lonely wife.

No more weekends for us.

I hope this MBA is worth it!

I LOVE YOU DAVID. thanks for all you do for our family. We notice your sacrifice and admire your dedication. Good luck with classes. You're our superman. A full time job, YM responsibilities, and now school--all while being an awesome daddy and wonderful hubby.

Chelsea Month:3

2011-01-10T14:26:00.000-08:00

I love my Goo!

This little girl is the BEST baby out there. She is always happy. Chels never cries unless she's been hurt or is extremely hungry. She will whine a bit to let you know she needs something but just a whine. I could have a dozen more babies if they were all like Chelsea.

Here are some wonderful things about our princess...

*She LOVES to coo and babble--she gets angry if I'm not able to talk to her sometimes. (hmmm, a key thing to know for the future?!)

*This girl is super intelligent. She understands moods in the room and responds to them. She also focuses on details

*She is a tender heart. If she senses danger, she will cry out; eg., if Carson comes up to her suddenly and she can't see me, she cries out.

*Chelsea is HUGE! At 2 1/2 months she weighed 15 lbs 13 oz
--this is off the charts for her age! Luckily she is also off the charts in her height so she is balanced!

*Due to her size, she wears 6 mo clothes

*She sleeps 7 hours, nurses and sleeps 3 more at night. This started at 3 weeks of age.

*Her hands are the most interesting thing--besides mom:)

*She loves getting her diaper changed and taking baths. If she is whining, these will both make her stop

SHE IS ADORABLE. I LOVE YOU CHELSEA GOO.

New Years Eve

2011-01-08T20:15:00.000-08:00

This year we did a Murder Mystery party for New Years Eve. It was really fun.

Our theme was Reformed Disney Villian's Caribbean Cruise. My brother-in-law, Bryce, wrote the whole thing. We probably didn't really know what we were doing but everyone stayed in character and had a great time. It was really quite humerous. I'm anxious to try a real MMparty.

Here are David and I dressed as Cruella de Vil and Hades; respectivly.

Christmas Morning 2010

2011-01-06T13:20:00.000-08:00

Carson really got into opening presents. Lucky for him the event lasted 4 hours!

There was plenty of time while waiting for his next turn to try out his new stuff!

As I was behind the camera, there are no pics of me. And Chels didn't appear til later.

We stayed in jammies all morning, played with new toys and games. Worked on group puzzles and ate a delicious ham dinner.

Family Time this Holiday Season

2011-01-05T10:25:00.000-08:00

The best thing about the holidays is Family Time

Our 2010 Timeline Recap

2011-01-02T20:14:00.000-08:00

January
-Came home after the New Year to a house full of extended family
-My sister Andelyn stayed with us for 2 weeks
-Found out a baby would arrive in 9 months!
February
-Flew to help Mindy try on wedding dresses (Her and Nathan are engaged)
-Carson turned 1
-Put our house on the market so we could go back to school for an MBA
March
-David offered a job that would allow him to work AND go to school (means we won't go to BYU)
April
-Flew out to look at housing options for our move
-Visited both families for Easter
-Found out we are having a GIRL!
-Flew to Tennessee for half marathon with David's family
May
-Mindy and Nate married for time and all eternity
-Pack up our house and say goodbye to the last few years of adventure
June
-Move in with the in-laws
-David starts new job
-David turns 26
July
-Extended stay with my family
-Bring back a sibling to stay with me every week
August
-We become renters and landlords
-Family vacation with David's family in Spokane
September
-Labor Day with my family
-My dad turns 50
-My due date comes and goes
October
-Chelsea Mckinley FINALLY enters the world
November
-Chelsea is blessed
-Pamela delivers a healthy Camryn Elizabeth
-I turn 25
-Thanksgiving with my family
December
-Weekend trip with the hub to Sundance
-Christmas, family, GREAT times!

Our Family Faces

2010-12-22T14:25:00.000-08:00

We have some new "looks" going on lately!

Carson is trying hard to be like Daddy. With a little construction driver mixed in!

Our spit-up queen is showing off her double chin quite well these days.

And the mom got a new hair cut.

I'm not quite sure what I think of it yet. It's exactly what I wanted but I don't know if its the style for me. We'll see how the next little while goes and if not, then short it is.

Utah Birthday Trip

2010-12-20T19:59:00.000-08:00

My sweetheart took me away on a surprise weekend getaway for my birthday this year. We went snowboarding, ate at some of our favorite UT places, visited friends, and committed to making it an annual event.

It had been 4 years since I had gone snowboarding and 7 for David! He found his groove much faster than I did but hey, I did just have a baby 2 months ago. For 9 months it was a chore just to go up the stairs. I am pretty sure my body is still recovering just a bit:) By the end of the day I was feeling great. I was the last one on the mountain cause I wanted an extra run in.

Thanks to Grandma for watching Carson back home, thanks to the Gills for the wonderful accomadations, food, and FUN! Thanks to siblings who love us enough to play games with us, babysit Chelsea, and let us bum some major discounts from them.

(Sorry to all my UT buddies who I didn't get a chance to see:( Time is never on my side! I was thinking of you though. )

Christmas Newsletter

2010-12-16T10:04:00.001-08:00

Hello all....

I am going to send out our first Christmas newsletter. If you think I might not have your current address and would like me to send one to you, please either comment, message me on facebook, or email me at toodels1@hotmail.com.

Thanks!

Our November 25th

2010-12-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

This year we spent Thanksgiving with my family. We missed my 3 brothers and other extended family. We seem to have smaller gatherings sometimes even though our family is growing! We look forward to the day when we will all be together again.

I love the weather here. We went to the park, played basketball and tennis, went to yoga classes, and enjoyed plenty of football!

Would you guess these girls are 5 weeks apart?! Hopefully over time, these cousins will close the gap a little tighter but for now, I think Chelsea is at least double Camryn's size!

Oh and yes, Happy 25th birthday to me. A quarter of a centry. We celebrated my day of birth just before Thanksgiving with dinner, cake, and a luxurious mani/pedi. I feel so young, so blessed, and so spoiled.

Thankful for...

2010-11-22T12:48:00.000-08:00

This face. It greets me every morning, whenever I've been away and I totally love it. My joy is full. I love life with my 2 kids.

His favorites lately include:
-Playing Duck, Duck, GOOSE! with Simba, Nala, Scooby, and Lamby
-Saying prayers with Simba, Nala, Scooby, and Lamby
-ANYTHING with Simba, Nala, Scooby, and Lamby

The group usually must also include Daddy and Chelsea if available.

Chelsea: Month 1

2010-11-18T13:02:00.000-08:00

This little girl is growing up SO fast. Time is just flying by these days. I don't think it will change either. I guess with the more kids you have, the more there is going on, so life just fills up and the busyness takes time away. I can't believe she's almost 6 weeks.

Chels pretty much is like this all the time...chill. She doesn't need me to entertain her. As long as she is not tired and has a very full tummy, she is good to go. Phew, and I thought that my #2 was going to be harder since Carson was a pretty dang good baby. Nope. She is EASIER!

I'm not sure what she weighs right now. I'm going to go use my Wii Fit to find out. hang on. K, wow. According to wii fit, Chelsea weighs 14.3 lbs. That seems crazy. But then agian, she is in 3 month clothes. Speaking of Wii Fit. I've been using that in the past few weeks to get started on my workout:) It actually is doing something. It was sad to see that I have 15 lbs to go before I am back to my skinny self. I'm not sure where I'm hiding all of it because I have been in my own jeans since she was a week old. This time its a bit different since I didn't have a c-section. Now I know where the 'jelly belly' reference comes in. YUCK! My tummy is gross. I'm not sure how much skin itself weighs but if all this extra around my middle adds up to 15 lbs I wouldn't be surprised. Anyway, back to the girlie.

This picture is mostly for my mom. Just in case Chelsea balloons before I got a picture, I want to showcase this sweater that Grandma Facer (or 'Anny M as she wants to be called) made for the little girl.

Here are some things about Chelsea we've discovered or that she's accomplished in her first month:
-she is a chunker
-she sounds like a girl. her cry is so girlie
-she is a strong baby. she pushes up on her legs all the time and she loves to try and look around
-for 10 nights (nov.6 -16) she slept at least 6 hours through and even did a 7 1/2 hour block!!
-most nights sleeps 4 hour blocks
-eats like a champ
-drinks a bottle of formula every night...very well i might add
*this is something new I tried. with carson i was so anti formula and bottle. I was worried he wouldn't nurse well if i gave him a bottle too soon or too much and blah blah blah. I decided I wanted her to be versitile. it's AMAZING being a second time mom. so different and much more relaxed then the first! LOVE IT
-grunts all the time...mostly when she's asleep! it sounds like she is constipated. very funny!
-sleeps on her side and back. this is new for me too. carson would get the best sleep when on his tummy so i put him there. she however is the opposite.
-broke out in baby acne week 4. it is the WORST case i've ever seen. poor girl. I wonder if her being a girl means more hormones so its worse? she still has it. we'll see how long it lasts
-rarely scratches herself. like maybe 4 times. but she has scratches on her face all the time---thank you brother carson.
-started smiling last week. she smiled at her Mama of course and has done it every day since.
-has begun the cooing stage. not a lot has come out but you can tell she is trying so hard. we get little sounds here and there.

We love you baby chelsea. You are so beautiful and you make your family smile.

Chelsea's Blessing Day

2010-11-10T09:15:00.001-08:00

We had Chelsea blessed on Sunday. It was a good day with lots of family. My parents came up from San Antonio with the 3 youngest kids, David's parents and 2 youngest were here, his brother Bryce and his family came, and his cousin Kevin was here with his son.

Other than the picture of us in the hospital (me in that lovely gown), this is our first family of 4 pic.

Carson was crying through most of her blessing so I didn't get to hear it. Luckily my mom is a great scribe and I got to read it later!

She's such a beautiful little girl. You will notice that she has a big scratch on her left eye. That would be from her brother the night before. Poor girl. Battle wound and all though, I thought she looked adorable.

Happy Fall

2010-11-01T14:42:00.000-07:00

We went to the Pumpkin Farm twice this year. The first time was at night and then Saturday we saw everything in the daylight. Carson really liked the animals and picking up all the pumpkins he could carry.

Carson was a pumpkin (again, yes; I did just have a baby ya'll!) He actually kept his costume on quite well. He had no idea why he was in costume but he was a good sport.

We're already listening to Christmas music at our house!! We are SO excited for this holiday season.

We have a BIG girl

2010-10-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

Our 2 week old 'little' girl had her appointment on Tuesday.

She is 10 lbs 9.5 oz--99th percentile
22.3 inches--97th percentile

This is a 3 month outfit

I LOVE OUR LITTLE BIG GIRL!

Carson's spot

2010-10-19T09:35:00.001-07:00

He is loving the baby swing. I think Chelsea has been in there once.

Chelsea Pics

2010-10-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

We are still busy adjusting but wanted to share a few pictures. They say it all anyway:)

We have a new addition to our Family

2010-10-15T12:25:00.000-07:00

Check back soon...we're recovering from lack of sleep and mostly enjoying time as a new family of 4!!!

But here is a quick fill in for you:

Chelsea Mckinley Daines
born- 10/12/2010
at- 4:30pm VBAC after 19 hours of labor
weight- 9 lbs 3 oz
height- 21 in

Mom and baby are both doing so well. Carson LOVES his baby sister and couldn't be more thrilled that his mommy is finally home:) We are teaching him that poking and laying on baby sister is not quite soft enough!

Don't Worry, Still Pregnant

2010-10-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

She's 5 days late.

It's not THAT bad. Of course I'm ready to be done. Aren't all pregnant women done at week 38-39? But I'm not going crazy...yet. Ask me if we're still here at 10 days late or maybe even by tomorrow I will have cracked. For now we are still waiting and that's ok.

11 days til we're due

2010-09-18T13:41:00.000-07:00

Getting closer...feeling good!

Haven't come to a final decision on name. We like the following 3. Thoughts? Additions? We'd love to hear 'em!

Amelia

Roxanne

Brinnley

A step in the right direction

2010-09-16T16:01:00.000-07:00

We got our carpets cleaned today, the swing set up, and what little clothes I have for the little girl washed....

I think we're almost ready! And we're anxiously awaiting her arrival!

18 months

2010-08-13T12:38:00.001-07:00

Ok, so officially C turned 1 1/2 yesterday but I was way too busy to blog so we're a day late!

Aw, my little boy has almost no essence of baby to him anymore. This morning he was running around, blabbing about who knows what, all while wearing his daddy's socks and shirt. I will get a picture of that some day!

Let's recap on a few of Carson's greatest skills to date.

*Loves his blankie--We have to hide it during meal time otherwise he would use it to wipe himself and his tray clean. The world is also coming to an end everytime we wash it

*Was a fish in another life--he will jump off the edge of the pool, ready or not, so I better be there! --he loves to put his face underwater, blows bubbles, and is learning how to "kick, kick, kick"!

*In the shower he will back up till the water hits just the right spot and say, "ahh"--also loves to back up to sit on your lap and to get lathered up with sunscreen. Something about walking backwards for that kid

*Went to nursery for the first time 2 weeks ago and hasn't looked back once

*daily works out--he will go up the stairs and down the stairs over and over, trying to do it with no hands

*on the first few tries of any task he wants to do it himself, if he really can't get it then it's ok for mommy to help

*Communticates with sign language mostly--he has a HUGE vocabulary in signing. he's too busy building other skills so speaking understandable english will have to come later
---can say mom, dad, tan u (thank you), aaa (yeah), dog, duck, and a few others here and there but usually doesn't take the time to repeat them.

*If you're on the phone, you better hand it over at some point because he has his own business to discuss with whomever you may be talking to

*When carson wants to say no....he shakes his head and jarbles on for a minute or two as to why your request is so ridiculous to him

*Is a total sleeper. This kid LOVES to sleep. He asks for sleep when it's time. He takes a 2 hour nap every day. And he sleeps from 9pm to 9:930am EVERY night. Twice in the last month he has slept in til 11am. Seriously, I could not be pregnant with a better toddler at a better time.

*Loves to fold his arms for prayer

*Loves his shoes

*Will not, no matter who and how hard they try, eat any ice cream, donuts, and other various sweets. His only indulgences are cookies and hard candy.

*Has a thing for cheese

*They first thing he does when he wakes up is give you his blankie. He will try to give you all the other blankets surrounding him before he will reach up for you. The next thing he does is ask for some milk.

*Loves to lift my shirt up over my belly and "pat" baby sister--If we are in a public place and wants to say hi to the baby, he gets mad that I won't let him lift my shirt up. How can he possibly say a proper hello with my shirt in the way!?

*Ceiling fans are the coolest things. He point up at them and circles his hand round and round. Oh and airplans are pretty cool too. He loves to look in the sky for them

*Will always shut the door behind him--excuse me!

*Without question his favorite person outside of mom and dad is Grandpa--if he hears a man's voice, he will sign grandpa. if he hears a lawn mower, he will sign grandpa. I think he'd be ok if grandpa was always around

*Loves to throw balls, kick balls, and make anything tangible into a ball

*Loves to cuddle with his mommy--he is still a mama's boy thru and thru. When he is ready for bed, he literally will ask for his blankie, his bottle, and his mommy. Nothing less will do. In these moments I realize that carson is still my baby and I will always have the memories of him as such.

I just realized I could be here another 2 or 3 hours going on about my little jungle cub but I'm going to cut it short and go on the the next task on my list. I love my son. What a gift it is to be his mother and learn from him more about the eternal plan of happiness.

Cooling Off

2010-08-06T11:30:00.000-07:00

What do you do when it's been over a hundred degress for the past 2 weeks and all your little boy wants to do is be outside??? You get wet!!

We've been swimming almost everyday and now we usually visit the Splash Pad a few times a week. It's a free park that the city built and has water coming out of the ground. It's a ton of fun!!

a moment to myself

2010-07-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

I actually have quite a few moments to myself but I usually don't do things I should with those quite moments. Most often I watch a T.V show, read something, look at others blogs, and other piddly things.

As a was just putting my beautiful little boy to sleep tonight, I couldn't help but realize that I am completely and blissfully happy with my life as his mother. I love what I do. I love all of it. I'm pretty sure that this is what I was made to do. Of course I believe we are all as daughters of God divinely given the job as Mother but I seem to be meant for this above all else.

I can't believe how tiring it all is. It is HARD work. But I seem to forget all of that before it ever become anything other than a passing thought. His smile, his laugh, his insatiable curiosity is irresistible. I even find myself almost wishing I had more time with Carson. Just him and me. He's my baby and yet I have another one coming in less than two months! aw, how can that be! I've heard of this baby #2 worry. That mothers feel like they might leave the first without all the attention they were used to, and how we can possibly give them everything we gave them when it was just the two of us. Of course as soon as this little girl comes out, it will be as if we were always a family of 4 but for now, it's funny to have these thoughts.

I have come to know more and more each day that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. Marriage has been a huge guide towards my increased testimony. It's amazing how celestial it really is. And motherhood has been just as influential. Life is not super exciting, and we don't have pictures and great adventure stories to tell, but it's so real. My life is real, and I couldn't be happier about the fact. Nothing fake. My husband is loyal, a good man, and he loves me.

aw, i'm feeling scatter-brained. so many thoughts, such a good day. but i'm tired. till the next moment...

Family is the BEST

2010-07-22T14:29:00.000-07:00

We've had so much fun with both sides of our family. I love the move! I love being so close to everyone.

Carson loves his grandparents.

This is why I have the best life ever! This face is absolutely loveable.

One day at my parents...it's amazing what avacado and a 1 1/2 year old can do for each other.

aw....moving, playing, and getting bigger

2010-07-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

Well, we've done it. We packed up, cleaned house, and left on a new adventure.
Carson is such a great helper when it comes to cleaning around the house. He begs to be included.

Since we moved in with Grandma and Grandpa Daines for the summer, Carson has found some great new toys! This is carson driving the battery powered Jeep. There is a video at the end. He knows how to press the pedal...steering is a bit of a challenge.

Carson also loves the ducks in their front pond. He likes to quack at them and have them quack back. They just have to stay about 5 ft away. They've bit him a few times while he fed them so he's a bit more cautious.

He's such a big boy...ready for primary in a few weeks! YAY.
My pregnancy is going good. She loves to move around in there. We're excited but she can stay in there for a little longer til we get our place ready and moved into.

A few years too soon. He should wait another 14 1/2 for the license.

Summer fun for you & kids

2010-06-01T20:25:00.000-07:00

I found these homemade activities from BabyZone.com and thought they looked awesome!

I'm excited to try them even if Carson is only 16 months...as he gets older he'll LOVE them:)

http://www.babyzone.com/toddler_preschooler_fun/crafts/article/homemade-play-materials/?CMP=NLC-NL_Babyzone_05_31_homemade-play-materials

Let me know if you try it and how it goes...hey, you could even blog about it!

Boxed up...

2010-05-27T08:27:00.000-07:00

We're getting close!

My days consist of boxing, organizing, and taking care of my little rugrat in between.

The house is looking different. Almost bare!

Our final departure is in one week. Bring it on :)

Mindy & Nathan Gill--May 1, 2010

2010-05-05T13:33:00.001-07:00

We had a fun wedding weekend with lots of love, laughs, and smiles!

These were taken from the photo booth that they had set up for all the guests.

Bring on the....

2010-04-20T08:33:00.000-07:00

Ballerina Costumes

Princess Shoes

Babies and Dolls

Bows, Clips, and Headbands

We're going PINK!

Doctor's Orders

2010-04-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

At my last appointment, I told my doctor that I wasn't going to be able to have him deliver my 2nd child because of our changing adventures. We were both very sad about it. He is the best doctor and I'm sad to leave him. He told me that he didn't want to send me out the door without knowing if my baby was a boy or girl so he was scheduling me for an ultrasound at my next visit. He said technology is so good now that is really is pretty accurate this early. So, that means on Friday we will be finding out the sex of our baby!!!

I'm so excited...what do you think? Another cute boy or our first little girl?

Here's one for the books

2010-03-11T22:11:00.000-08:00

So earlier this evening I am driving down the road to meet the hub-a-dub for some dinner and I realize Veronica is not sounding right and I think I know what's wrong. Pull over, yep fear is confirmed, I have a totally flat tire. Call my dad, "Sweetie you're going to have to change the tire. You can do this." Great.

Happen to be in a parking lot of a playground/field; alone. Get out. Now, I'm a woman who has never changed a tire before (faithful V and old Bessy before her never left me in that predicament), I also have a cranky child in the back seat, oh and yeah, I'm 3 months prego. I can do this. Still on the phone with my father. Can't figure out how to get the stinkin' spare out of the trunk...wouldn't want it to come loose now would we. Finally get it all out with a little pep talk from my dad. Meanwhile 6 cars have passed by to drop off their kid for soccer practice; none stop.

The spare is half my weight; awesome. Get everything set up. Have to stand on and then jump on the wrench to get the lug nuts loosened. My son is loosing it. Have 5 members of my family try and talk to him over the phone to calm him down. Finally get the tire off the car and land on the ground with the tire over me. Nice. 4 more cars have passed.

Drag the spare over and finally get the dang thing into the wheel well and onto the bolts...I need another pep talk. Carson is wailing. Jump on the wrench again to now tighten the lug nuts. A car stops. Guy says, "hey looks like I'm a little late but do you need help?" " uh I think I'm ok now, could've used some help a half hour ago but thanks anyway." "Hey sorry, but looks good, well done." Gee thanks

Heave and ho with the now mangled tire and get everything back into the trunk. Land into the driver's seat and try to soothe my child. Clean myself up with baby wipes and we're off. Loved the 40 min. detour.

Can I have my merit badge now?

We're Excited!

2010-03-11T10:22:00.000-08:00

Our family definitely thinks 2 is better than 1

We're excited to welcome another cute baby into our family this September!

How does this happen?

2010-03-08T10:07:00.000-08:00

You would think that since I am in the hair cutting field that I would be able to keep up with my own hair needs....nope!

I haven't had my hair cut since July and it was time for a trim and some shaping. I have had some bad luck in the past with finding a good hair stylist. The only haircuts I have liked are from my hair school friends and then my cousin Piper. (my mom is pretty good too!) But the other haircuts I've had have been disastrous.

So did some research and found a place that I thought would be pretty good. I walk in and find that Sandy is a male. Ok, I can deal with that. And no, not gay; that was made abundantly clear. A strange 55 year old man but he seemed to be listening while I explained I wanted an inch off the bottom and the layers 3 inches about that looking very shattered not steppy. I also told him the razor has been used to create that look I like. I really felt like we were on the same exact page. (oh, yeah I don't tell hairstylist that I do hair just cause I don't think it's relivant and might just make them nervous) Anyway. The longest time I've ever spent in a chair for a trim and shaping! Finally he gets a mirror.

I HATE IT! Holy cow. Worst haircut ever! I mean, not just was it totally not what I asked for but it looks horrible. Some times I've gotton something different then what I asked for but it looks like an actual haircut. Not this. He did take an inch off the bottom but then I have layers 6 inches above that....and it looks like a lawn mower hacked across my hair. NO razor was used and it's just a bunch of cut lines all over my head.

This is what I don't get....I said I liked it, that it was excellant, and then tipped him $7. How does that happen? What is wrong with me!

My baby is One....

2010-02-12T10:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Bubbers. I love you so much. You're not my baby anymore...you're my little boy.

Alright, here's the news....

2010-01-29T11:36:00.000-08:00

We are moving! It is exciting I know. We've loved it here for the past two years but it is time for a new adventure. The hubster is off to graduate school.

It is not so exciting to get your house ready to sell. We go on the market next week and then the house will always ALWAYS have to be show ready. Imagine that with a busy little one year old. Ok, so he's not quite one yet but 2 weeks is close enough!

Carson took his first steps this week. He can take about 5 before he plummets to the ground. I'm sure it's only a matter of time until he'll be running from his Mama!

We got our Christmas gifts shipped to us from Grandma's house this week. Carson was excited to see his new toys again. Plus we upgraded to a big boy carseat. Aw, am I really ready to say goodbye to the baby stage and just have a toodler around? It all happens so fast.

Life is great....I'm excited for the future and what it holds....and more tangible;...I'm excited for spring!

It is time....

2010-01-26T19:24:00.001-08:00

I guess I should really buckle down and just blog already. Problem....lack of motivation + WAY too much to do. Solution----Just do it!

(Be prepared for random pics. I stole these from my sister...I'm too lazy to get mine off the camera! They are only a week old)

Well here goes nothing. I am not sure how much time I have or where to start but let's see how far I get.

I am so bummed that the holidays are over. They flew by. Literally. We flew to everywhere. First was Christmas with my family. It was perfect. Music, games, laughter, talking, hair stuff (of course), lots of firsts. Garrett was in the MTC, it was Carson's first Christmas and David's first with my family.---Crazy I know. Almost 3 years and our first christmas with my family. Blame it on Australia and Pregnancy...two things that probably win out.

New Years was with David's fam. Also perfect. Puzzles, food, games, laughter, music, Daines/Gill football, and family pictures. Oh i forgot to mention SICKNESS. BLAH! Carson was first and got it from aunt mindy (thanks!) Then me followed by david. After carson was sick for 2 days and on the uphill, David and I left for a kind of 2nd honeymoon.

Love these gloves, you can't tell here but they aren't mittens....actual finger spots for each little one

Disney World. Great place, happy, fun, not so much when you're sick. Oh well only the first day and a half was a bit unpleasant. It was a LOT easier to be away from my baby then I thought it would. He was great for his Grandparents and I did ok too. It was nice to be with my hubby and spend time with him playing at "The Happiest Place on Earth"

We flew back to the in-laws, had a little layover, picked up our son and headed home. This was on the 9th of January. Needless to say Home was looking good about now! But home was not loney without us. It was full of 10 other people. My family and my aunt's family came out for a funeral unexpectedly and crashed at our place. It was fun that night. Lot's of people and almost a continuation of the Holidays.

Best part about their coming....they left some precious cargo. My sister Andelyn stayed for 2 weeks. Oh how I love that girl. She's fun, and surprisingly different then her big sister. It was a lot of fun getting to hang with the "teenage" sister. We haven't lived together since she was 11 so it's been difficult to see her grow up without being around.

We went shopping, to a museum(super cool place here), out to eat, started and then beat the New Super Mario for wii, played wii fit, painted nails, did hair...you name it. She even celebrated her 15th birthday with us. Oh how could I not mention....we went to see Avatar. Amazing. Haven't seen it? Get up right now and go.

Check out the hair. He already had his first haircut here and then shortly after this he got another one!

My boy is getting big. I am frequently overcome with the full force of how much I love that little boy. He is a comedian, an adventurer, an explorer, a dare devil, a stinker, a sweetheart, a tease, a joy, the BEST. Huh? Guess all those came from either his mother or his father. We must be quite the family:) I'd like to think so!

Well there is more to tell, news to share, and updates to be given but the hour is late and my hubby is home. Time to continue living in my wonderful reality!

Laters

10 Months

2009-12-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

Carson will be 10 months old in 2 days. Here are some of his bests.

C is an explorer. He loves to climb on everything...the top of his walker, the stairs, on mom...he is a boy through and through.

Everything is a car. Cell phone, wii controller, toys, paper, and sometimes an actual car. He will take the said items and roll them around on the floor as if it is driving around. Love this!!

He is 21 lbs 8 0z

29 inches

Such a mama's boy!!--I love this too

Loves his Bum and Grandpa Facer. He is quite attached to both

Says mama. He doesn't call me mama...but he knows it gets him attention and it's his word for everything.

Carson you are my pride and joy. My reason to get up in the morning...when I'm exhausted. You are everything a mother could ask for and more. I love you.

Can't Hardly Wait

2009-11-14T12:53:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I told myself I wasn't going to get too excited, too early. Well, I think this is late enough, and oh well, I'm SUPER excited!

I know where I'll be next weekend...

I just hope that it will be better than the first movie. I'm still holding out!

Pumpkin Bumpkin

2009-11-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

I had no idea how adorable Carson would look in his costume!

Our Halloween lasted about 10 minutes. We got him in his costume, snapped some pictures, and that was it. I wish it would stay this easy...ha! I have many a cold night's Halloween to come; with the candy too. AHHH!! But for this year--smooth sailing.

This last week we had a foot of snow. I shoveled 5 times in 2 days! Carson hung out in our heated garage. He has yet to really get into the snow. Soon enough...soon enough