I love thinking back on the year and remembering the good things and the bad. Here goes:
We spent NYE 2011 eating halibut nuggets and french fries waiting for Cole to get home. I don't even think Cole and I made it to midnight last year!
January: I started the year with a hefty list of goals and am very happy to report that I completed just about half of them! I created a household binder and got rid of all of the piles of paper in different boxes around my house! I can happily say I've followed a meal plan most of the year and am cooking for scratch 5-6 nights a week. We didn't do as much traveling as I would have like but the boys and I did visit Oregon for a few weeks. I spent several months this spring and summer running and used a few different videos here at home. I lost 25lbs in just a few months but managed to gain almost half of it back while trying to conceive in the fall. January was a busy month for Cole at work and it was such a relief to have him home more towards the end of January.
February: I struggled big time in February. The kids were both doing great and Cole was right there with them but I had a heck of a time! I felt as if I didn't fit in and I was really having a hard time at church, I was very home sick. I was so glad to say good bye to February!
March: Spring Break!!! I was gifted a trip to Fairbanks thanks to my fabulous mother-in-law. Joshua and I caught a flight to -20 weather....I was able to spend 3 days with two of my sister-in-laws while Cole and Cameron had a BOYS WEEKEND! Cole took his full week off from work and enjoyed every minute of his PTO. Cameron and Joshua both had ear infections this months as well.
April: I started running this month. I felt so good to be running again. We celebrated 1 full year in Alaska this month as well. It was such a bitter-sweet celebration...we sure miss our family but we are so very happy to have made a home that is all ours!
May: Cameron finished preschool and I won't hide the fact that I cried. The day after his last day we took a red eye to Medford and surprised my sister! It was the best surprise ever and I am so happy and grateful the boys and I had the opportunity to go home. We spent 3 weeks in Oregon and spent tons of time playing with cousins and grandmas and papas. It was so fun.
June: I turned 26...June was pretty low key and easy going...Joshua was pretty sick mid June and we had some friends share great news with us and terrible news with us. I was counting my blessing in June.
July: July was spent playing outside as much as we could when it wasn't raining! I had to stop running in July as my knee started bothering me. This would also be the month that we decided it was time to add to our family and we started trying to conceive! This was also the month that we potty trained Joshua.
August: Cameron started school the third week of August. It was so fun taking him to get his school clothes and supplies. We have loved his teacher from the get go and I am so very proud of the student that he is. Joshua turned 2! It was so hard to believe that my little baby was a big 2 year old!
September: We had stormy September and are very thankful that those crazy weather systems didn't effect us too much. Cole worked some crazy hours this month and there were days when Cameron didn't get to see Cole!
October: Cole and I celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary this month. We spent the weekend home with the kiddos and relaxed. We got Cameron's first report card and learned that he is doing spectacular at school and has improved well beyond the norm. We learned that this months cycle was THE cycle and that we would be welcoming a new addition to our family at the beginning of July!
November: Cameron turned 6 this month. We had a low key family day for his birthday and took cookies to his classroom to celebrate there too. My nausea kicked in almost instantly so I didn't do too much. Cole's work slowed down which was handy and Josh talks a mile a minute most days! Thanksgiving was rough as we missed family but we made the most of it and spent the day together. I finished all of our Christmas shopping the day after Thanksgiving!
December: Cameron started counting down the days till Christmas December 1st! Joshua learned about Santa and Baby Jesus' birth. I spent all month nauseas and can no longer lay claim to the fact that I don't throw up while pregnant! We saw our little on on his/her first ultrasound at 10.5 weeks. Cole took two weeks off and is spending winter break home with us. We had a fantastic Christmas and the boys received everything on their wish lists and then some.
I personally and looking forward to the new year, my growing belly and all the fun we have planned with our family. I can't wait till our little one arrives so that the boys can meet him/her. I am so grateful for all of the trials and sacrifices we've faced this last year and for how far we've come and our ability to over come what is thrown our way. I couldn't be more proud of my family and the different ways we've each grown. I'm excited to see what is in store for us this next year.
Happy New Year!
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Thankful's, thoughts, and notes
The last few weeks have been tough. Aside from not feeling well, the brakes in our family car needed to be replaced, stranding the boys and I at home for a full week. We were hit with a nasty snow storm earlier this week covering our town in a foot of snow in a matter of hours. I'm still not feeling great and am waiting for this dang morning sickness to go away! I've been counting my blessing extra this weekend and savoring the time I have with my little ones. Part of me feels selfish snuggling my guys extra when I know there a so many moms and dads missing their kiddos this weekend!
Thankful's, thoughts, and notes:
*My kiddos are my light, sometimes I yell, sometimes I get frustrated but at the end of the day I don't know what I'd do without them.
*I almost picked Cameron up from school Friday morning after seeing the news....
*I hate snow...when I have to drive in it! I hate it even more when it doesn't go away and it makes for icy roads for weeks and months till it starts to warm up!
* Sleep deprivation and pregnancy don't mix...I am a mess! Not patients, lots of yelling---and crying and then laughing---no energy! Ugggg!
*My husband is super handy and fixed our brakes. So nice to have a handy husband.
*I have some great friends...one of them stepped up and took Cameron to and from school for a whole week for me! She's awesome and Cameron loves her kids so it was extra special for him!
*Holidays are rough without family.
*I am extra grateful for the gospel this week and my knowledge and testimony of eternal families. I saw a post by a friends asking where God is....He's there comforting those families...He's there comforting that community and the nation. He can't control the things taht happen as we all have the ability to make choices...but He is there to help us pick up the pieces if we allow Him in.
*I will continue to be naive and believe that things like the shootings this week can't/won't happen here. I know it's naive thinking...I know in my gut that it can...BUT it's the only way I can send my children out of my home.
Just a few of the things that have crossed my mind this evening!
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Shrimp Scampi and Pasta--Recipe
I have been craving citrus flavors and carbs. I think the carbs help to settle my tummy a bit although the only time my tummy is truly settled is when I am a sleep and that 30 second period when I first open my eyes in the morning. When trying to figure out what to make for dinner tonight I remember I had some frozen shrimp in my freezer. I went to Pinterest and did a quick search for shrimp scampi. I have a recipe I love but didn't have any Parmesan cheese or cream so I needed something a little different. I found two easy-ish recipes (a key for a tired pregnant momma with two kiddos under foot) and thought I would try to combine them. I don't have any pictures...but here's the recipe. Enjoy!
Shrimp Scampi and Pasta!
recipe adapted from Taste of Home
and Parents
Shrimp Scampi
12 oz Medium Shrimp (peeled and cleaned)
1 stick butter (1/2 c)
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tbls lemon juice
2 tbls bread crumbs
Pasta and Sauce
1 lb pasta (we used spaghetti but would be great with angel hair or linguine too)
3 tbls + 1 tbls butter, divided
1/2 of an onion peeled and diced
3 tbls flour
2 cups chicken broth
4 oz cream cheese
1 tbls lemon juice
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Start the water for your pasta. Melt the stick of butter and pour into a 9x13 pan. Place shrimp in pan and add garlic and juice, stir to combine. Add bread crumbs. When water for pasta is boiling place pan of shrimp in oven and then add the pasta to water. (I will add a bit of oil and salt to my pasta at this time) Melt 1 tbsp of butter in a sauce pan and add the onion. Cook until softened, 1-2 minutes. Add 3 tbls of butter to the onions and stir in flour. Once butter and flour are combined whisk in the chicken broth. Continue to stir sauce until it comes to a slight boil and begins to thicken. Add cream cheese, stir till combined and melted. Add lemon juice. Once pasta has reached it's desired tenderness, drain water reserving 1/2 cup. Pour sauce over pasta and stir to combine. Add pasta water as desired (I used the full 1/2 cup). Remove shrimp from oven (shrimp should be pink and no longer translucent). Serve shrimp over pasta.
This fed our family of four with plenty of pasta left over for tomorrow lunch for all of us!
Honestly, I prefer my favorite shrimp scampi over this one but it was very good and satisfied my craving! If you give it a try let me know what you think.
Oh, you'll notice I didn't add any salt while cooking except for the salt I added to my pasta water. I am watching my salt intact during pregnancy. You will need to salt and pepper if that is your thing...we all ended up passing the salt and pepper shakers around the table at least once ;)
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Hello, December!
I love this time of year! The lights on the Christmas tree make me so happy!
We had a great Thanksgiving. Being away from family is always hard but I love creating my own traditions and not feeling the pull from everyone. In years past we have tried to see everyone on a holiday...we'd do dinner one place and dessert at another and go visit someone else. It's exhausting. It was so nice to sit and relax with my little family.
Here's a quick wrap up of fall...
Cameron received his first report card. I am so happy and pleased with how well he's doing. Kindergarten report cards are boring and pointless...as long as you are doing as you are supposed to and progressing you get a 3! We did however receive a print out of his benchmark (the first week of school each child was evaluated and then again the week of report cards). The improvement was crazy! I can't remember exact number and I'm too tired to pull it out of the filing cabinet but they were something along the lines of recognizing 13 of 52 letters (uppercase and lowercase) during the first week of school and recognizing 36/52 letters with a goal of recognizing 30/56 by the end of the first quarter. His benchmarks for sound recognition as well as number recognition were just as impressive. Cameron's teacher has been out due to a family emergency so we've had a temporary sub for a couple of months now...We both LOVE her, but do to this we didn't have the opportunity to have a conference with his teacher. I did have the chance to talk with the sub for a few minutes and she had nothing but great things to say. To say I am proud would give you the wrong impression...as long as my children are happy and doing their best I am happy....What I am is blessed. I was truly frightened that moving Cameron from family was a mistake and that he would never settle in. I was scared that this would scar him for life. I feel as if I am being shown that this wasn't detrimental and that we did make the right choice by placing him in public school. Cameron is a special little spirit just as every child is. I've said from day one that he is my easy kid!
And then theirs Joshua! Mr J has started talking, He talks and talks and talks. I swear he says five new words a day and puts different words into sentences all day long! His little brain is working overtime. The crazy kid is regressing in the potty trained department. We are working on that. He stopped sleeping a few weeks ago but I think we've fixed that. There was a couple of weeks where I was convinced that there was something wrong with him but now I believe the flip was switched for terrible twos and he was working double time to make my life heck...things have gotten much better on that front too! He'll tell anyone who listens that there's a baby in his belly...not mommy's! He is still the best eater in the house and I swear he's grown two inches in two months. We've finally out grown out 12 month clothes and have had to move on to 18 month/24 month and 2Ts as the 12 month are too short. My bet is if there was a way to lengthen them he could have stayed in the 12 month pants for another 6 months or so...I am constantly rolling up the waist band on his 18/24 month clothes to keep them on his waist!
Cole's work schedule has finally slowed down. Thank goodness. He's been so supportive while I've been resting and avoiding anything that makes me sick. Super Husband goes to Cole for the month of November!
As for me, I am 9 weeks and 2 days pregnant. I see the doctor in just over a week and I am so excited to hear this little ones heartbeat. I'm still super nauseated and the fatigue set in over Thanksgiving. I also feel "foggy" quite often and I believe pregnancy brain gets worse with each one!
Enjoy the holidays and I will update as I can!
Hugs and Love to all!
We had a great Thanksgiving. Being away from family is always hard but I love creating my own traditions and not feeling the pull from everyone. In years past we have tried to see everyone on a holiday...we'd do dinner one place and dessert at another and go visit someone else. It's exhausting. It was so nice to sit and relax with my little family.
Here's a quick wrap up of fall...
Cameron received his first report card. I am so happy and pleased with how well he's doing. Kindergarten report cards are boring and pointless...as long as you are doing as you are supposed to and progressing you get a 3! We did however receive a print out of his benchmark (the first week of school each child was evaluated and then again the week of report cards). The improvement was crazy! I can't remember exact number and I'm too tired to pull it out of the filing cabinet but they were something along the lines of recognizing 13 of 52 letters (uppercase and lowercase) during the first week of school and recognizing 36/52 letters with a goal of recognizing 30/56 by the end of the first quarter. His benchmarks for sound recognition as well as number recognition were just as impressive. Cameron's teacher has been out due to a family emergency so we've had a temporary sub for a couple of months now...We both LOVE her, but do to this we didn't have the opportunity to have a conference with his teacher. I did have the chance to talk with the sub for a few minutes and she had nothing but great things to say. To say I am proud would give you the wrong impression...as long as my children are happy and doing their best I am happy....What I am is blessed. I was truly frightened that moving Cameron from family was a mistake and that he would never settle in. I was scared that this would scar him for life. I feel as if I am being shown that this wasn't detrimental and that we did make the right choice by placing him in public school. Cameron is a special little spirit just as every child is. I've said from day one that he is my easy kid!
And then theirs Joshua! Mr J has started talking, He talks and talks and talks. I swear he says five new words a day and puts different words into sentences all day long! His little brain is working overtime. The crazy kid is regressing in the potty trained department. We are working on that. He stopped sleeping a few weeks ago but I think we've fixed that. There was a couple of weeks where I was convinced that there was something wrong with him but now I believe the flip was switched for terrible twos and he was working double time to make my life heck...things have gotten much better on that front too! He'll tell anyone who listens that there's a baby in his belly...not mommy's! He is still the best eater in the house and I swear he's grown two inches in two months. We've finally out grown out 12 month clothes and have had to move on to 18 month/24 month and 2Ts as the 12 month are too short. My bet is if there was a way to lengthen them he could have stayed in the 12 month pants for another 6 months or so...I am constantly rolling up the waist band on his 18/24 month clothes to keep them on his waist!
Cole's work schedule has finally slowed down. Thank goodness. He's been so supportive while I've been resting and avoiding anything that makes me sick. Super Husband goes to Cole for the month of November!
As for me, I am 9 weeks and 2 days pregnant. I see the doctor in just over a week and I am so excited to hear this little ones heartbeat. I'm still super nauseated and the fatigue set in over Thanksgiving. I also feel "foggy" quite often and I believe pregnancy brain gets worse with each one!
Enjoy the holidays and I will update as I can!
Hugs and Love to all!
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Weeks, symptoms, up-to-date-ness
First things first...I am 7 wks 5 days! Yes, we were trying. I took us 4 cycles to conceive. For those of you who don't know I have Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS. My cycles are typical long, heavy and pretty painful. Luckily, my body responds well to hormonal birth control and I believe we had an easy time conceiving thanks to the mirena I had for almost two years which was removed in July. Because I was tracking my cycles I know exactly when I ovulated (Happy Anniversary to me ;)) and I got my positive pregnancy test on Friday October 26th exactly 30 days after my last period!
I was feeling a bit nauseas a few days before my positive test... honestly that was the only symptom I had. A couple of days after my positive my boobs started hurting! I started bloating almost immediately and as of today my jeans won't button. I am more comfortable in stretchy yoga pants, sweats and if I have to leave the house maternity jeans! My skin seems super sensitive so anything too tight on my belly hurt and irritates it. The morning sickness has been in full throttle for 2 weeks now! I haven't vomited but I am always sick to my stomach and I have spent several mornings gagging and dry heaving before breakfast. my morning sickness it much worse with this pregnancy than with my two previous pregnancies. I always forget how sore your breasts get but I'm quickly reminded daily each time a child hugs me or I brush up against something.
I won't have my first OB appt till December 11th with an ultrasound to follow on the 12th. I will 10 weeks and 5/6days. I am hopeful that I will like this OB. I've heard great things about him with a couple of mixed reviews thrown in too.
Anything else?
As for the rest of the family....
We are looking forward to a very long weekend. Cole has Wednesday thru Sunday off!!! YAY!
Cameron has a classroom play tomorrow...I am going to try to get a video but a the very least I will have pictures to share.
Josh has started talking like a champ. He's always talked more than Cameron did at this age but it seems like everyday he has several new words.
I will be back soon!
I was feeling a bit nauseas a few days before my positive test... honestly that was the only symptom I had. A couple of days after my positive my boobs started hurting! I started bloating almost immediately and as of today my jeans won't button. I am more comfortable in stretchy yoga pants, sweats and if I have to leave the house maternity jeans! My skin seems super sensitive so anything too tight on my belly hurt and irritates it. The morning sickness has been in full throttle for 2 weeks now! I haven't vomited but I am always sick to my stomach and I have spent several mornings gagging and dry heaving before breakfast. my morning sickness it much worse with this pregnancy than with my two previous pregnancies. I always forget how sore your breasts get but I'm quickly reminded daily each time a child hugs me or I brush up against something.
I won't have my first OB appt till December 11th with an ultrasound to follow on the 12th. I will 10 weeks and 5/6days. I am hopeful that I will like this OB. I've heard great things about him with a couple of mixed reviews thrown in too.
Anything else?
As for the rest of the family....
We are looking forward to a very long weekend. Cole has Wednesday thru Sunday off!!! YAY!
Cameron has a classroom play tomorrow...I am going to try to get a video but a the very least I will have pictures to share.
Josh has started talking like a champ. He's always talked more than Cameron did at this age but it seems like everyday he has several new words.
I will be back soon!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Guess What!?!?!?!?!?
We are expecting.....
Due July 4, 2013!
Just for the record pregnancies don't get easier the more you have. In my experience they get just a little harder.
Never the less, we are so excited to welcome this next little one into our family.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Happy 6th Birthday, Big Guy!
It's crazy to me that my oldest child is 6 today! I have such mixed feelings about this birthday....I don't want him to get any older, yet I have to much fun watching him grow. Here's a few pictures..kind of like a then/now!
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| Cameron 11/2/2006 |
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| May 2012 |
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| May 2012 |
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| July 2012 |
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| May 2012 |
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| First Day of Kindergarten Aug. 23rd, 2012 |
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| October 28, 2012 |
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| August 31st, 2012 |
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| October 2012 |
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| Happy Birthday! |
Love, Mommy!
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Cloth Diaper giveaway
No, I am not announcing anything by posting this :)
I have been researching cloth diapers...
Joshua has been potty trained for a little over 2 months now. He is doing great! We have plans of adding one more little one to our family some day and I have a pretty strong inkling that it will be our last little one. I'd love to cloth diaper our next little one. Think of it as it's my last chance to do some of these things I've thought about doing :)
While researching and reading about cloth diapers I came across this awesome giveaway. If I win it's be a free and easy way to start my stash...even though it will be quite some time before we add that next little one to our family :)
http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/blog/thirsties-thursday-giveaway-70/
Thirsties brand diapers come with some great recommendations. Lots of people love them. I'd love to try them some day!
We'll talk soon!
I have been researching cloth diapers...
Joshua has been potty trained for a little over 2 months now. He is doing great! We have plans of adding one more little one to our family some day and I have a pretty strong inkling that it will be our last little one. I'd love to cloth diaper our next little one. Think of it as it's my last chance to do some of these things I've thought about doing :)
While researching and reading about cloth diapers I came across this awesome giveaway. If I win it's be a free and easy way to start my stash...even though it will be quite some time before we add that next little one to our family :)
http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/blog/thirsties-thursday-giveaway-70/
Thirsties brand diapers come with some great recommendations. Lots of people love them. I'd love to try them some day!
We'll talk soon!
Sunday, October 7, 2012
missing my family this weekend
Who would have thought that this weekend, a weekend of uplifting words delivered from mouths of Apostles and Prophets, that I would be so lonely. Don't get me wrong, I love listening to General Conference and I look forward to the day that I can take my family to watch Conference live. I've enjoyed watching the light of recognition come into Cameron's eyes as he hears and listens to the words that have been spoken and to the songs that have been sung. I love the feeling of peace that wraps around me as I listen to our Prophet speak. I have a desire to do better and to do more while continuing to do those righteous things I strive to do each day. I know that my best is good enough and that by serving my children I am serving our God. With all of that though, I miss my family.
The boys and I were able to Skype with my mom yesterday. It's been four months since I've seen her. Since I've been able to have a hug from my mom. Although we talk daily, if was nice to see her and for her to have the chance to see the boys...to see how much they've grown and for them to share their things with her. Cameron was able to read a book to her and Joshua showed her his new nightlight. You wouldn't believe it but they've both changed so much in the last four months and it's wonderful that we have the technology we do today..it sure helps for us to feel closer when we are so far away.
In the past, Conference weekends have been spent with Cole's family. We would all gather and share meals and insight before, during and after each session. I miss that, the special gathering that would bring us closer as a family.
I know that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing....that we are living far from family for a reason and a purpose. Day to day it isn't so hard...but on these special occasions it's pure torture! Day to day I can see the blessing right before me...I can see how we are being changed and strengthened. Even thought this weekend has been hard, I have answers to prayers before me. I have been uplifted and have the strength to continue on. As I type Cameron is filling out his Conference Listening Card. He is listening to an Apostle speak and recognizing words that are being said. I am truly blessed.
The boys and I were able to Skype with my mom yesterday. It's been four months since I've seen her. Since I've been able to have a hug from my mom. Although we talk daily, if was nice to see her and for her to have the chance to see the boys...to see how much they've grown and for them to share their things with her. Cameron was able to read a book to her and Joshua showed her his new nightlight. You wouldn't believe it but they've both changed so much in the last four months and it's wonderful that we have the technology we do today..it sure helps for us to feel closer when we are so far away.
In the past, Conference weekends have been spent with Cole's family. We would all gather and share meals and insight before, during and after each session. I miss that, the special gathering that would bring us closer as a family.
I know that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing....that we are living far from family for a reason and a purpose. Day to day it isn't so hard...but on these special occasions it's pure torture! Day to day I can see the blessing right before me...I can see how we are being changed and strengthened. Even thought this weekend has been hard, I have answers to prayers before me. I have been uplifted and have the strength to continue on. As I type Cameron is filling out his Conference Listening Card. He is listening to an Apostle speak and recognizing words that are being said. I am truly blessed.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Conference Saturday---Alone
I am laying on my bed listening to the second session of conference with my boys playing around me. Cole has been working crazy hours and as we speak is in hour 101 of this pay period....he isn't due home till about 9pm tonight which will put him at 109 hours. Sigh. I am tired, lonely and blessed.
I have plans to highlight my favorite quotes from conference so stay tuned for that. I only caught a few minutes of this mornings session but I have most definitely enjoyed this afternoons session and am already feeling inspired, at peace and humbled.
This will be the fourth night this week that Cole isn't home for dinner. I have plans to make pigs-in-a-blanket for the boys to eat tonight while watching Madagascar 3...they are so excited...doing extra special little things for my kiddos helps pass the time while Cole is gone.
Cameron is doing great in school and has started spelling/reading. So fun!
Joshua went to the Dentist this last week. He did so great. He's such a good kid...and so sweet!
I'll be back soon!
I have plans to highlight my favorite quotes from conference so stay tuned for that. I only caught a few minutes of this mornings session but I have most definitely enjoyed this afternoons session and am already feeling inspired, at peace and humbled.
This will be the fourth night this week that Cole isn't home for dinner. I have plans to make pigs-in-a-blanket for the boys to eat tonight while watching Madagascar 3...they are so excited...doing extra special little things for my kiddos helps pass the time while Cole is gone.
Cameron is doing great in school and has started spelling/reading. So fun!
Joshua went to the Dentist this last week. He did so great. He's such a good kid...and so sweet!
I'll be back soon!
Friday, September 28, 2012
Happy Fall Update!
Hello! It's been so long since I've taken the time to sit and blog :)
Cameron started school about 6 weeks ago. He LOVES it! When he talks about school he lights up....its such a blessing for me to see how well he's adjusting to this new routine and to see for my self what Heavenly Father helped me to know a few months ago. The school he's going to is so amazing. Each time we walk in I feel a sense of peace wash over me....he teacher is great and we love her.
Joshua turned 2 last month. My little boy is potty trained :) He basically potty trained himself. Cole decided that it was time about a week and half before J's birthday. Basically we would strip off his diaper in the morning and put undies on him and then take him to the bathroom ever 45 min- and hour. It was a long first week but he caught on really quick and would help remind us. Now a month later J is in diapers at night and is in undies all day long. He has an accident almost everyday but thank goodness it is always only a wet accident! It's crazy to me that my two year-old is potty trained!
Cole is working like a crazy man and it's make me a crazy mama! Counting our blessing for sure though and are so grateful for this wonderful job!
We've had some crazy fall weather and are so grateful for all of the men and women who kept our town safe and helped return power to us when it was out! In the last month we've had 3 huge wind storms that brought tons of rain with them! Lots of flooding and down trees. I guess it's very common to have huge wind storms in our area during the winter but not normal to have those wind storms in the fall. Normally when the winds storms hit the ground is frozen making fallen trees less likely....but we've had a very wet summer and when the wind storms hit lots of trees fell because the ground is so soft and wet. We were lucky to have no damage and we only lost power for a couple of hours one day. We have friends who lost every thing to a flash flood and one of Cole's co-workers was without power for a couple of days. Oh, it's supposed to snow this weekend....did I mention it's only September!
I love sight and smells of fall.
Hopefully it won't be so long between blog posts next time!
Cameron started school about 6 weeks ago. He LOVES it! When he talks about school he lights up....its such a blessing for me to see how well he's adjusting to this new routine and to see for my self what Heavenly Father helped me to know a few months ago. The school he's going to is so amazing. Each time we walk in I feel a sense of peace wash over me....he teacher is great and we love her.
Joshua turned 2 last month. My little boy is potty trained :) He basically potty trained himself. Cole decided that it was time about a week and half before J's birthday. Basically we would strip off his diaper in the morning and put undies on him and then take him to the bathroom ever 45 min- and hour. It was a long first week but he caught on really quick and would help remind us. Now a month later J is in diapers at night and is in undies all day long. He has an accident almost everyday but thank goodness it is always only a wet accident! It's crazy to me that my two year-old is potty trained!
Cole is working like a crazy man and it's make me a crazy mama! Counting our blessing for sure though and are so grateful for this wonderful job!
We've had some crazy fall weather and are so grateful for all of the men and women who kept our town safe and helped return power to us when it was out! In the last month we've had 3 huge wind storms that brought tons of rain with them! Lots of flooding and down trees. I guess it's very common to have huge wind storms in our area during the winter but not normal to have those wind storms in the fall. Normally when the winds storms hit the ground is frozen making fallen trees less likely....but we've had a very wet summer and when the wind storms hit lots of trees fell because the ground is so soft and wet. We were lucky to have no damage and we only lost power for a couple of hours one day. We have friends who lost every thing to a flash flood and one of Cole's co-workers was without power for a couple of days. Oh, it's supposed to snow this weekend....did I mention it's only September!
I love sight and smells of fall.
Hopefully it won't be so long between blog posts next time!
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Kindergarten, Ready or not?
I have to admit, I've spent very little time this summer prepping Cameron for Kindergarten. I had lists of things he was going to do every single day...practice his letter, learn to tell time, learn to tie his shoes, and the list goes on and on. Instead we have spent time playing with friends, cleaning our home and learning about chores, we've visited the library a few times and we hit the farmers market every Wednesday. We've rented movies and had family movie night, we've bought games and have had family game night. I've watched my sons grow into friends...even with the 3 1/2 year age difference. Sitting here tonight I was thinking about all that I wanted him to know before he starts school in a couple of weeks and it clicked. Last week I had to take some paper work into the school to finish registering him. There was a paper that needed to be signed by me and by Cameron. Guess who signed his name. Tonight we played 3 games of UNO....guess who won one of the three games...if I had to guess I couldn't tell you how many times we've played UNO this summer. I asked Cameron after bath tonight what game he wanted to play...YAHTZEE....
My 5 year old can play Yahtzee, he can hold his own in a game of UNO and when asked he can sign his name. This summer, I've taught Cameron how to be a good sport when he doesn't win, he can recognize and tell you what every single card in the UNO deck is. He can follow directions, add the numbers on the die and can use his fingers to add number when given a simple addition problem. The memories I will have of my children playing this summer...far out weigh the good that may have come from me keeping a strict schedule with Cameron this summer. I hope and pray that as he grows we can continue to have and make the time for the special things we've done. I hope that I never lose sight of the fun of having my children around.
I don't have a single doubt about Cameron starting school. I believe he will be an excellent student and I know that he will succeed at anything he puts his mind to. He is such a smart and funny little guy. He's so brave, kind and thoughtful. He is the best big brother and really loves his little brother. I'm so lucky to have him as a son and I can't wait to see what school brings for him!
My 5 year old can play Yahtzee, he can hold his own in a game of UNO and when asked he can sign his name. This summer, I've taught Cameron how to be a good sport when he doesn't win, he can recognize and tell you what every single card in the UNO deck is. He can follow directions, add the numbers on the die and can use his fingers to add number when given a simple addition problem. The memories I will have of my children playing this summer...far out weigh the good that may have come from me keeping a strict schedule with Cameron this summer. I hope and pray that as he grows we can continue to have and make the time for the special things we've done. I hope that I never lose sight of the fun of having my children around.
I don't have a single doubt about Cameron starting school. I believe he will be an excellent student and I know that he will succeed at anything he puts his mind to. He is such a smart and funny little guy. He's so brave, kind and thoughtful. He is the best big brother and really loves his little brother. I'm so lucky to have him as a son and I can't wait to see what school brings for him!
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Sunday, August 5th, 2012
This is a mommy post to help me remember some of the things my kids are doing...if you aren't interested in the in's and out's of my kiddos then stop reading now :)
Cameron is showing signs of being ready to learn to read. This morning while we were getting ready for church he asked Cole why the light switch said "no" on it....Cole looked at it and said "what do you mean?" and then after looking at it said "oh, Cameron is says on which is no backwards" :)
At church today, both boys sat quietly....which in and of it's self is a miracle. While listening to members of our ward share their testimonies Cameron was doodling on some paper...I looked over to see him drawing the letters Ll and H...I asked him which letters he wrote and he told me--a big L and an I and an H....He had copied off the front side of the paper which was a lined sheet for the letter L so I knew that he had written a little L not and I. I corrected him and he said...I wondered we it didn't have a line at the top and bottom :)
Joshua has become so animated....this evening he was wrestling with his brother and they had so much fun together.
Cameron is showing signs of being ready to learn to read. This morning while we were getting ready for church he asked Cole why the light switch said "no" on it....Cole looked at it and said "what do you mean?" and then after looking at it said "oh, Cameron is says on which is no backwards" :)
At church today, both boys sat quietly....which in and of it's self is a miracle. While listening to members of our ward share their testimonies Cameron was doodling on some paper...I looked over to see him drawing the letters Ll and H...I asked him which letters he wrote and he told me--a big L and an I and an H....He had copied off the front side of the paper which was a lined sheet for the letter L so I knew that he had written a little L not and I. I corrected him and he said...I wondered we it didn't have a line at the top and bottom :)
Joshua has become so animated....this evening he was wrestling with his brother and they had so much fun together.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Peace and Comfort
It took us several days to settle back into a routine after returning home from Oregon. We had to readjust to the constant daylight, again. It always throws off sleep schedules. I think I was more affected than the kids were. Thank goodness for blackout curtains.
Now that we are finally settled in, I have time to think again. We've had an interesting few days. Saturday morning Joshua woke with a nasty diaper....I figured it was something he had eaten. Those nasty diapers continued into Sunday and still I wasn't convinced that he was sick. he didn't have a fever and was acting normal so again I figured it was something that just hadn't sat right with him. We went to church and although he doesn't stay in nursery I still feel bad about having taken him when he was sick. Anyhow, his diapers continued and actually increased. He became lethargic as Monday started. For the last four days Josh and I have basically sat together and we haven't done anything! I've kept up on the dirty blankets, sheets and jammies from Josh and the dishes but I haven't had time for anything else as the poor little guy only wants mommy. Monday is when the phone calls started.
Monday afternoon we got a call from some good friends in Oregon letting us know that they are expecting a precious little boy. We are so excited for them and we know that their sweet son that they already have will be a wonderful big brother. A couple hours later they called again to let us know that he had been offered a job with the local school district. We were even more excited about this piece of news. The next morning I got a call from a friend here in Alaska needing a friend...her husband had been let go from his place of employment. My heart broke for the family of five, having been in that similar situation just over a year ago I know how it feels to have to make new plans and readjust the plans you had. A few hours later, my best friend in Oregon called to let me know that she hadn't gotten a job she applied for. Seriously.
I am so glad that we are blessed with amazing friends. I feel grateful that they feel comfortable calling to share their news with us, good or bad. By the end of the day Tuesday, I became aware or several other friends and family members that were either having a very hard time or celebrating over great news. I was swimming in my own thoughts trying to figure out how to help each individually. I offered up a prayer knowing that our Father in Heaven would be the only one that could provide the comfort that each of my friends need. I have seen miracles worked in my own life, sicknesses healed, comfort provided, peace or mind and of heart. I have felt the peace that can come from the comfort that is provided when turning to our Father in Heaven. Countless times and in so many different situations I have felt that peace and comfort. I pray that each of our friends felt that peace and will continue to feel the spirit in their lives. I know that prayer are answered, it may not be in our time but they will be answered.
Tonight I am praying for my sweet baby boy. He is on the verge of dehydration and I am so worried about him. I hope this bug passes quickly so that I can have my crazy toddler back!
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Oregon!
The kids and I had the opportunity to take an 18 day trip to Oregon the day after Cameron got out of school. Thanks to a wonderful friend and colleague of my sisters the flights were free making the trip possible. This friend contacted me at the end of February to see if it was something I would want to do. My sister had been struggling with postpartum baby blues and her friend thought that a visit from me would help clear them up! so unbeknownst yo my sister I planned the trip and did not tell her. You see, I talk to Amanda on a daily basis at least once if not five times a day...seriously, our husbands have joked about charging us for the time we spend on the phone. Keeping a secret from her is sooo hard. Last year she tried to surprise me for my birthday...but there were to many clues and weird signs allowing me to figure it out. I knew I needed to be sneaky. I kept quiet to her for 6 weeks....the week leading up to the trip was the hardest...I was here making arrangements, returning library books, prepping meals for Cole, deep cleaning the house, packing and finishing Cameron's last week of school. Every day she asks what are you doing today and I would have to keep most of what I was doing to myself so she wouldn't catch on. Thank goodness we flew at night....and arrived before we normally talk each morning. Not being able to get a hold of me all day would have been a dead giveaway. It was worth the trouble though....she was the only family member in Oregon that didn't know we were coming. We surprised her at her work. I meet her friend, Brandi there. Brandi arranged for Amanda to come in. I was the first person she saw when she walked into the building. It was so fun to see the look on her face when it all registered. it took her a second though!
Our trip was awesome! We had great weather and the kids played outside all day everyday! With their cousins around they had so many kids to play with. We were able to spend tons of time with Grandmas and Papas, and Aunts and Uncles too! I was able to visit with my friend Ari who just happened to be in town and the same time I was. I love visiting with friends and was glad to be able to spend time with her and meet her new little guy. I had the opportunity to visit with some other friends as well.
It was an awesome trip, but we are glad to be home and back to normal routines and sleep schedules!
Not much planned for the summer....a quick trip to Fairbanks here in a couple of weeks and them maybe a trip down to Homer. Looking forward to the start of school.
Our trip was awesome! We had great weather and the kids played outside all day everyday! With their cousins around they had so many kids to play with. We were able to spend tons of time with Grandmas and Papas, and Aunts and Uncles too! I was able to visit with my friend Ari who just happened to be in town and the same time I was. I love visiting with friends and was glad to be able to spend time with her and meet her new little guy. I had the opportunity to visit with some other friends as well.
It was an awesome trip, but we are glad to be home and back to normal routines and sleep schedules!
Not much planned for the summer....a quick trip to Fairbanks here in a couple of weeks and them maybe a trip down to Homer. Looking forward to the start of school.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
goodby pre-school!
Cameron finished preschool yesterday. It's bitter-sweet. We are all looking forward to summer but we were also sad to say goodbye to Cameron's teacher. He has grown and changed so much this past year. It's hard to describe, but i have watched my shy, quiet 5 year old blossom into an outspoken inquisitive young man. He is so smart and asks interesting questions. He definitely keeps us on our toes.
Camerons teacher, Ms. Rada, was such a blessing. She was so patient and kind to her class. At headstart, the teachers make monthly visits to the homes of each child in their classroom. When Ms. Rada would come over she would always have activities planned that had been tailored to Cameron and what he needed to learn. I remember one visit she raved about Cameron and it touched me deeply. Moving from family to none, I feared that we had set him up for failure. The first few months here in Alaska were very hard for him. He was sad most of the time because he missed his family. He didn't want to go to church because he was afraid none of the kids in his primary class would like him. Once school started we started to see that change. He seemed happier. Although, Ms. Rada was complimenting our parenting when she said what she said about Cameron...to me it was just another confirmation that we as a family are doing just as we should.
We've been counting down the days till school gets out....mainly because I'd like to sleep in :) But when we woke yesterday Cameron was a little sad. It was the last time he would ride the bus with Mr. Fred and the last time he would see most of his friends (we are not in Wasilla city limits...the headstart program he was attending was in Wasilla and most of the students in his class will go to different school...we will go to a Palmer school due to boundaries and such)...it would be the last time he'd see Ms. Rada, although sometimes we run into her at Wal-Mart. We had made her a quilt to thank her for such a great year. I'll be honest, I was definately choking back tears as we said our goodbyes....I'm a big baby, but for me it was the close of our first chapter here in Alaska. We've made a home here and the school and the staff there were a part of that. I know we will find that at the elementary school Cameron attends but for me yesterday was so much more than the end of a school year.
Camerons teacher, Ms. Rada, was such a blessing. She was so patient and kind to her class. At headstart, the teachers make monthly visits to the homes of each child in their classroom. When Ms. Rada would come over she would always have activities planned that had been tailored to Cameron and what he needed to learn. I remember one visit she raved about Cameron and it touched me deeply. Moving from family to none, I feared that we had set him up for failure. The first few months here in Alaska were very hard for him. He was sad most of the time because he missed his family. He didn't want to go to church because he was afraid none of the kids in his primary class would like him. Once school started we started to see that change. He seemed happier. Although, Ms. Rada was complimenting our parenting when she said what she said about Cameron...to me it was just another confirmation that we as a family are doing just as we should.
We've been counting down the days till school gets out....mainly because I'd like to sleep in :) But when we woke yesterday Cameron was a little sad. It was the last time he would ride the bus with Mr. Fred and the last time he would see most of his friends (we are not in Wasilla city limits...the headstart program he was attending was in Wasilla and most of the students in his class will go to different school...we will go to a Palmer school due to boundaries and such)...it would be the last time he'd see Ms. Rada, although sometimes we run into her at Wal-Mart. We had made her a quilt to thank her for such a great year. I'll be honest, I was definately choking back tears as we said our goodbyes....I'm a big baby, but for me it was the close of our first chapter here in Alaska. We've made a home here and the school and the staff there were a part of that. I know we will find that at the elementary school Cameron attends but for me yesterday was so much more than the end of a school year.
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| I love this quilt....I hope Ms. Rada does too! |
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| Cole was home one day when Cameron was getting off the bus...Cameron loved it when Daddy would get him on or off the bus! |
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| Thank You Ms. Rada for such a wonderful year :) |
Sunday, April 29, 2012
One Year
Our family has had an incredible year! If somebody had given me a timeline or breakdown of how this last year has played out I would have looked at it and thrown it across the room. I didn't imagine the heartache I would feel, how lonely I would be, or how this move would affect Cameron. I never would have believed that I would be happy, that Cameron would thrive, that Joshua will never know anything different, that Cole would enjoy winter, that we would thrive as a family. I look back over the last year and I have so many memories...stories I hope to be able to tell to my grandchildren one day. I look back over the last year in awe of the lessons we have learned and the trials we have overcome! We have made friends...really great friends...friends we hope to keep forever. We have a cat that the boys adore and an apartment that feels like a home. We are slowly but surely settling into our ward. We have daily and weekly routines. We live in a beautiful town surrounded by majestic mountains. A year ago, the boys and I said goodbye to our friends and family...we took 4 suitcases and 2 boxes...and left everything I've ever known for this wonderful, crazy, challenging adventure! I am so grateful that Cole was there to meet us at the airport when we landed in Anchorage...I was scared out of my mind...but I will ALWAYS remember the grin on his face when we walked out of the terminal and he saw us for the first time in six weeks....he was obviously happy and I was determined from that moment on to make this work and it has.
I have a new song that I play over and over! It reminds me to keep going. It reminds me to never give up. The last year has been so hard...but I would never trade it for anything.
Change in the Making
From the album Higher By Mercy River
There’s a better version of me
That I can’t quite see
But things are gonna change
Right now I’m a total mess and
Right now I’m completely incomplete
But things are gonna change
Cause you’re not through with me yet
That I can’t quite see
But things are gonna change
Right now I’m a total mess and
Right now I’m completely incomplete
But things are gonna change
Cause you’re not through with me yet
This is redemption’s story
With every step that I’m taking
Every day, you’re chipping away
What I don’t need
This is me under construction
This is my pride being broken
And every day I’m closer to who I’m meant to be
I’m a change in the making
With every step that I’m taking
Every day, you’re chipping away
What I don’t need
This is me under construction
This is my pride being broken
And every day I’m closer to who I’m meant to be
I’m a change in the making
Wish I could live more patiently
Wish I could give a little more of me
Without stopping to think twice
Wish I had faith like a little child
Wish I could walk a single mile
Without tripping on my own feet
But you’re not through with me yet
Wish I could give a little more of me
Without stopping to think twice
Wish I had faith like a little child
Wish I could walk a single mile
Without tripping on my own feet
But you’re not through with me yet
Chorus
From the dawn of history
You make new and you redeem
From a broken world to a broken heart
You finish what you start in everything
Like a river rolls into the sea
We’re not who we’re going to be
But things are going to change
You make new and you redeem
From a broken world to a broken heart
You finish what you start in everything
Like a river rolls into the sea
We’re not who we’re going to be
But things are going to change
Chorus
I’m not who I’m gonna be
Moving closer to your glory
Moving closer to your glory
Monday, April 23, 2012
April!
The five people that actually check up on my blog are probably wondering where I've gone off to hide again! Truth be told we've been so busy the last few weeks!
Cameron finishes school on May 9th. This year has flown by! He is thriving at home, at school and at church. he is writing his letters and trying to spell. He is counting and telling us all of the things he's learning. He has been called up to the front of the room during primary a couple of time to hold pictures during singing time and he loves his primary teacher. We are excited to spend the summer together and we are already planning playdates and park fun. I can't believe my baby will be in kindergarten.
Joshua has started talking and is talking more and more each day. He refers to himself as "baby" and tells us when he's "all done". I am "mama" and if he really wants my attention it's "mamamamamamamama". When he's in a really good mood Cameron is "bruder". He's learning animal sounds and he sounds so funny!
Cole and I are great. We are both enjoying the sunshine. I am so glad the snow is finally gone! I have started running :) It feels so good to be back out in the mornings running around our neighborhood! Cole's job is still going good.
I promise to not wait so long between updates!
Cameron finishes school on May 9th. This year has flown by! He is thriving at home, at school and at church. he is writing his letters and trying to spell. He is counting and telling us all of the things he's learning. He has been called up to the front of the room during primary a couple of time to hold pictures during singing time and he loves his primary teacher. We are excited to spend the summer together and we are already planning playdates and park fun. I can't believe my baby will be in kindergarten.
Joshua has started talking and is talking more and more each day. He refers to himself as "baby" and tells us when he's "all done". I am "mama" and if he really wants my attention it's "mamamamamamamama". When he's in a really good mood Cameron is "bruder". He's learning animal sounds and he sounds so funny!
Cole and I are great. We are both enjoying the sunshine. I am so glad the snow is finally gone! I have started running :) It feels so good to be back out in the mornings running around our neighborhood! Cole's job is still going good.
I promise to not wait so long between updates!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Winter update
One of my readers is also a very good friend....she requested an update...so here it is!
Sorry it's been so long, Friends! Life got the best of me and I have been trying my hardest to keep keepin' on!
I'll start with the kiddos---
Joshua has now taken on the name of Josh---I knew it would happen :) Although it's my fault! In all honesty I don't care which name he uses and what our friends and acquaintances call him. Here at home he is Joshua, Josh, baby J, Mr J and Shua. Our Little Guy is officially 18 months old! I still can't believe he's growing up so fast. hes just as independent as Cameron was at this age. He loves his toys and plays with his brother often. He has a favorite blanket. although any blanket will do (nice for blanket washing days!). He is the best eater in the house and will eat almost anything I put in front of him. He's learning how to help with simple chores around the house and he's learning his place in our family. He initiates prayer at meals and stayed the whole two hours in nursery last week! He is growing way to fast and i just wish i could pause time...to enjoy these sweet moments with my baby (toddler)!
Cameron is doing great. He is thriving at school and at home. He can write his name all by himself, although he would rather not! He is the best big brother and helps take care of Joshua. he loves to get him out of his bed and helps to find Josh's blanket when we can't find it. He enjoys playing games on the computer (our favorite sites are NickJr and PBS Kids...we also like the Zoodles dashboard) and loves our Wii. It's been fun to watch his coordination change allowing him to play these different games and consoles better. we haven't had any more trouble with kids at school which is wonderful. Cameron and i both love his teacher and the classroom aide. We have decided to homeschool him next year. I am looking forward to the one-on-one time we will have. He is one of the funniest kids I know and cracks me up a hundred times a day. He is also very smart....the things he retains in that little head of his amazes me. We are pretty sure that Cameron has inherited my allergies, though. He will have an allergy test here soon to help determine what his triggers may be.
Cole has had his best winter to date (at least as long as I've known him). To me, it's just another testament to me that we are doing exactly as Heavenly Father has planned. He still loves his job, but has realized that it's just that, a job, and that in order for us to expand our family anymore and buy a house someday he will need a career that will allow him to provide those things. He's looking into a couple of things and is excited about the different opportunities he's pursuing.
As for me, it's been a very hard winter....not because of the winter and lack of daylight but because I am having a hard time figuring out where I fit in. I believe this is the reason I have been avoiding this blog. I have commited myself to me and my family. I have decided that it doesn't matter how many friends I have right now and what people may think of me. I need to do what is best for myself and my family. I have settled into our ward for the most part. As for Alaska, I love it. I have thoroughly enjoyed our winter and I am looking forward to spring. We've had some crazy snow that isn't normally for where we live. It's been soooo fun!
Overall, We are happy, healthy and enjoying each other!
Sorry it's been so long, Friends! Life got the best of me and I have been trying my hardest to keep keepin' on!
I'll start with the kiddos---
Joshua has now taken on the name of Josh---I knew it would happen :) Although it's my fault! In all honesty I don't care which name he uses and what our friends and acquaintances call him. Here at home he is Joshua, Josh, baby J, Mr J and Shua. Our Little Guy is officially 18 months old! I still can't believe he's growing up so fast. hes just as independent as Cameron was at this age. He loves his toys and plays with his brother often. He has a favorite blanket. although any blanket will do (nice for blanket washing days!). He is the best eater in the house and will eat almost anything I put in front of him. He's learning how to help with simple chores around the house and he's learning his place in our family. He initiates prayer at meals and stayed the whole two hours in nursery last week! He is growing way to fast and i just wish i could pause time...to enjoy these sweet moments with my baby (toddler)!
Cameron is doing great. He is thriving at school and at home. He can write his name all by himself, although he would rather not! He is the best big brother and helps take care of Joshua. he loves to get him out of his bed and helps to find Josh's blanket when we can't find it. He enjoys playing games on the computer (our favorite sites are NickJr and PBS Kids...we also like the Zoodles dashboard) and loves our Wii. It's been fun to watch his coordination change allowing him to play these different games and consoles better. we haven't had any more trouble with kids at school which is wonderful. Cameron and i both love his teacher and the classroom aide. We have decided to homeschool him next year. I am looking forward to the one-on-one time we will have. He is one of the funniest kids I know and cracks me up a hundred times a day. He is also very smart....the things he retains in that little head of his amazes me. We are pretty sure that Cameron has inherited my allergies, though. He will have an allergy test here soon to help determine what his triggers may be.
Cole has had his best winter to date (at least as long as I've known him). To me, it's just another testament to me that we are doing exactly as Heavenly Father has planned. He still loves his job, but has realized that it's just that, a job, and that in order for us to expand our family anymore and buy a house someday he will need a career that will allow him to provide those things. He's looking into a couple of things and is excited about the different opportunities he's pursuing.
As for me, it's been a very hard winter....not because of the winter and lack of daylight but because I am having a hard time figuring out where I fit in. I believe this is the reason I have been avoiding this blog. I have commited myself to me and my family. I have decided that it doesn't matter how many friends I have right now and what people may think of me. I need to do what is best for myself and my family. I have settled into our ward for the most part. As for Alaska, I love it. I have thoroughly enjoyed our winter and I am looking forward to spring. We've had some crazy snow that isn't normally for where we live. It's been soooo fun!
Overall, We are happy, healthy and enjoying each other!
Monday, January 23, 2012
Update!
It's been a nice low-key month around our home! Cole's schedule has settled down a bit the last week or so. The kids have enjoyed seeing him in the evenings for a few minutes before bed.
Joshua has been cutting teeth like a mad man! Since Christmas he has cut 4-5 teeth! He's been one crabby dude. Other than that he's really started talking. His words are still pretty limited but he is starting to put the words he know into 2-3 word sentences. Last night he said "I want Dada"....he also says "I want that", "Yessss" "Uh-oh" "I want This". He's started waking up really early in the morning....I refuse to get up before 7am so on those mornings he gets to lay in his bed and talk. We hear him singing every morning....it's pretty cute!
Cameron has settled back into school! I am so grateful that he loves school again! He's starting to recognize words when he looks at books and papers. I wouldn't be surprised if he was reading by the end of summer! Right now we are working on recognized numbers....he's very good with number 1-10. Once you get past 10 he has trouble recognizing numbers 11-20. He knows them but gets confused when looking at them! His teacher suggested using BINGO cards and having him yell out the numbers. It's so fun and he has really gotten the hang of these numbers he's been having trouble with.
Cole is doing great. Winters are or have always been very hard for him. I can honestly say that in all of the years I have known him...this has been his best winter to date! I believe that because we are following our hearts and doing exactly as we have been instructed by our Father in Heaven we are being blessed immensely....and I believe that is exactly why Cole is thriving this winter! He still loves his job. Now that his job has slowed down a bit we are enjoying having him home in the evenings!
I am hanging in there....the holidays were really tough! I am still trying to get settled back in since our trip to Oregon! I was finally able to go to Cameron's school this last week to help in the class room....Joshua and I even made it to playgroup this week! I've spent some time reading. I love my primary class! I've enjoyed baking the last couple of months! I am trying very hard to enjoy the days home with my kiddos and then enjoy the evenings with my husband!
We are all looking forward to spring and summer!
Joshua has been cutting teeth like a mad man! Since Christmas he has cut 4-5 teeth! He's been one crabby dude. Other than that he's really started talking. His words are still pretty limited but he is starting to put the words he know into 2-3 word sentences. Last night he said "I want Dada"....he also says "I want that", "Yessss" "Uh-oh" "I want This". He's started waking up really early in the morning....I refuse to get up before 7am so on those mornings he gets to lay in his bed and talk. We hear him singing every morning....it's pretty cute!
Cameron has settled back into school! I am so grateful that he loves school again! He's starting to recognize words when he looks at books and papers. I wouldn't be surprised if he was reading by the end of summer! Right now we are working on recognized numbers....he's very good with number 1-10. Once you get past 10 he has trouble recognizing numbers 11-20. He knows them but gets confused when looking at them! His teacher suggested using BINGO cards and having him yell out the numbers. It's so fun and he has really gotten the hang of these numbers he's been having trouble with.
Cole is doing great. Winters are or have always been very hard for him. I can honestly say that in all of the years I have known him...this has been his best winter to date! I believe that because we are following our hearts and doing exactly as we have been instructed by our Father in Heaven we are being blessed immensely....and I believe that is exactly why Cole is thriving this winter! He still loves his job. Now that his job has slowed down a bit we are enjoying having him home in the evenings!
I am hanging in there....the holidays were really tough! I am still trying to get settled back in since our trip to Oregon! I was finally able to go to Cameron's school this last week to help in the class room....Joshua and I even made it to playgroup this week! I've spent some time reading. I love my primary class! I've enjoyed baking the last couple of months! I am trying very hard to enjoy the days home with my kiddos and then enjoy the evenings with my husband!
We are all looking forward to spring and summer!
Sunday, January 22, 2012
My Menu---Jan 22-28, 2012
Sun Jan 22- Cole's Birthday Dinner...His choice! Shepards Pie (trying it in the crock pot for the very first time as time is limited after church to get dinner ready) AND Apple Crisp for desert.
Mon Jan 23- Soup and grilled cheese sandwiches
Tues Jan 24- Baked Chicken Fajitas
Wed Jan 25- Baked Potatoes
Thurs Jan 26- Homemade baked Chicken Nuggets
Fri Jan 27- Pizza night!
Sat Jan 28- BBQ Pork Chops
Mon Jan 23- Soup and grilled cheese sandwiches
Tues Jan 24- Baked Chicken Fajitas
Wed Jan 25- Baked Potatoes
Thurs Jan 26- Homemade baked Chicken Nuggets
Fri Jan 27- Pizza night!
Sat Jan 28- BBQ Pork Chops
Sunday, January 15, 2012
My Menu---Jan 15-21, 2012
When planning my menus stand in front of my calendar in my kitchen and think about the food I have on hand. I always try to use what I have first...if I need an ingredient for something I note it on my calendar several days before I need it. I also try to find something that I can use as a substitute for that ingredient! We have some favorite meals that I rotate through often. My family doesn't care if we have spaghetti once a week. You'll probably see several things on my menu a couple of times a month. I like to try new recipes but my husband and oldest child aren't always supportive! Sundays are hard days for us. We have church in the afternoon from 1pm-4pm...we don't get home till 4:30....we leave our house at 12:30pm. It take our family 2 1/2 hrs to be "church ready"...so our mornings on Sundays consist of breakfast and getting ready. I try really hard to have dinner in the crockpot so that when we get home it is ready! For Christmas, my husband bought me a rice cooker with a delay start timer on it....I LOVE IT!!! for Sundays!
Sun Jan 15- Smothered Pork Chops in the crockpot with Rice : Cream of mushroom soup over pork chops.
Mon Jan 16- French Dip Sandwiches
Tues Jan 17- Spaghetti
Wed Jan 18- Breakfast for dinner: Scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes and hashbrowns for daddy (because of his egg allergy he gets hashbrowns instead!)
Thurs Jan 19- Terriyaki Chicken and Rice
Fri Jan 20- Pizza night!
Sat Jan 21- Free night....once a month we eat out...the boys normally pick McDonalds and Cole I will either have Taco del Mar or Subway
Breakfast-for-dinner is something my mom used to do for us! It was our favorite meal! My kids love it too!!!
Sun Jan 15- Smothered Pork Chops in the crockpot with Rice : Cream of mushroom soup over pork chops.
Mon Jan 16- French Dip Sandwiches
Tues Jan 17- Spaghetti
Wed Jan 18- Breakfast for dinner: Scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes and hashbrowns for daddy (because of his egg allergy he gets hashbrowns instead!)
Thurs Jan 19- Terriyaki Chicken and Rice
Fri Jan 20- Pizza night!
Sat Jan 21- Free night....once a month we eat out...the boys normally pick McDonalds and Cole I will either have Taco del Mar or Subway
Breakfast-for-dinner is something my mom used to do for us! It was our favorite meal! My kids love it too!!!
Monday, January 9, 2012
Weekly Menu---Jan 8-14, 2012
I was on the phone with my sister this afternoon and she asked what I was making for dinner. We talked about some of the things she could do on Thursdays when he life is more than she can handle...:) She mentioned how planning would help her...here's my menu, hopefully it inspires somebody!
Sun Jan 8- Crock-pot Chicken and Rice : two chicken breast, two handfuls of baby carrots, half an onion, one packet chicken gravy mix and two cups water. Cook on low for four hours. Serve over white or brown rice. Served 4.
Mon Jan 9- BBQ Pork Chops and Mashed Potatoes : Three bone in pork chops seared in hot pan. Place in baking dish and cover with bbq sauce. Cover pan with foil. Bake at 375 for about an hour. Serve with mashed potatoes and a green salad
Tues Jan 10- Chicken tacos
Wed Jan 11- Lentil Sloppy Joes (we'll see how this goes over with the Husband ;)) with homemade buns!
Thurs Jan 12- Kielbasa and roasted veggies
Fri Jan 13- homemade Pizza night!
Sat Jan 14- Spaghetti
My menu nothing special. I try to cook things my family likes and eats well. Sometimes I throw some odd things in just to see how it goes over. Mr. J will eat anything...but Cameron and Cole are very picky! I normally open a can of corn or green beans to serve with meals. I always have apple sauce on hand as well. The boys have been spoiled with canned peaches lately (thanks to the truck driver and my mom-in-law in Oregon!).
Sun Jan 8- Crock-pot Chicken and Rice : two chicken breast, two handfuls of baby carrots, half an onion, one packet chicken gravy mix and two cups water. Cook on low for four hours. Serve over white or brown rice. Served 4.
Mon Jan 9- BBQ Pork Chops and Mashed Potatoes : Three bone in pork chops seared in hot pan. Place in baking dish and cover with bbq sauce. Cover pan with foil. Bake at 375 for about an hour. Serve with mashed potatoes and a green salad
Tues Jan 10- Chicken tacos
Wed Jan 11- Lentil Sloppy Joes (we'll see how this goes over with the Husband ;)) with homemade buns!
Thurs Jan 12- Kielbasa and roasted veggies
Fri Jan 13- homemade Pizza night!
Sat Jan 14- Spaghetti
My menu nothing special. I try to cook things my family likes and eats well. Sometimes I throw some odd things in just to see how it goes over. Mr. J will eat anything...but Cameron and Cole are very picky! I normally open a can of corn or green beans to serve with meals. I always have apple sauce on hand as well. The boys have been spoiled with canned peaches lately (thanks to the truck driver and my mom-in-law in Oregon!).
Goals for the year
Here's my list of goals for 2012: (in no particular order)
Make a 72-Hour kit for each member of our family:
I've always had a good intentions. I have no excuses. I have been told that I need to do this so I am going to assemble 72-hour kits for the four of us. I've started my list and have started collecting the items I need. I plan to have them completed by the 1st of April.
Make a 72-hour car kit
Again, no excuses! With Cole driving so much we need one now. I have gathered most of what I need and I will get it put into the car this weekend. Once Cole's company car arrives I will make a second for that car. Those of you in AK, how do you store your drinking water in the car during the winter? I assume you don't because I will freeze?
Compile a 3-6 month supply of food storage
When we left Oregon, we left our food storage. I had a pretty nice supply built up. I remember the first time I talked to Cole's grandmother after arriving her in AK...she said "how that Mormon Mommy doing with out her food storage". I was petrified! We've had to use our food storage before. When Cole lost his job a couple years ago our food storage fed us! Seriously. Because we live in a smaller apartment now and I can't store outside like I could in Oregon, My hope is to store a 3-6 month supply.
Organize our household information into a binder instead of piles
Ugh! I have piles and piles of household papers...from birth certificates to bills. Yes, they are place out of the way but if something is needed I am the only one that can find it. I would like for Cole to be able to gather his own documents when headed to the DMV, or to be able to find the last power bill with out having to go through 3 different stacks of paper. I know that it's my fault for not being more organized so I am taking it into my own hands. I am going to take all of our important documents and household information and place it into a binder. I will then take what is left over and file it in an accordion file. Hopefully this will help cut back on some of the clutter while allowing for things to be found quickly.
Cook meals from scratch
This last year I started trying to be better about this. I grew up with a working mom. She would through dinner together as fast as she could and most of the time it ended up being something along the lines of rice-a-roni and seasoned chicken breast. Don't get me wrong I love rice-a-roni but as a mom having to worry about her weight as well as feeding my children something nutritious I would prefer to make brown rice. So this is already in the works. I also plan to use a meal plan! I hate meal plans but since having implemented one a couple months ago I have found that I really do save money and that it is easier to cook/bake from scratch when you know what you need ahead of time.
Travel
Nothing big here! We would like to take a couple of small trips this summer to explore our "backyard"! We have talked about taking an over night trip to Denali National Park. We'd also like to head on over to Valdez. We will make a trip or two to Homer and we'd like to make it up to Fairbanks!
Exercise/Run
Yes, the ultimate goal would be to lose some weight. I hope that by excercising regularly whether it's by running, video, or machine that I would lose some weight. Regularly is the key word here!
Family Home Evening/Scripture study/prayer!
I would like to implement Family Home Evening into our weekly plan. Our family scripture study fell to the wayside when the boys and I went to Oregon, so i plan to start that again too! I would just like to be better about these things in general!
There you have it. These are the main things I hope to accomplish this year. Every so often I will give you an update, especially if I'm working on a project!
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Normalcy
I've started a couple of post that I haven't finished yet so I kinda feel guilty about starting another one..
Anyhow, We've had a good few days. Cameron started school today and did NOT say anything this morning about not wanting to go to school!!! Yay!!! In fact he was in a super mood. We've set some goals for each other so hopefully that is helping...I hate getting up early and I have two kids that sleep in most mornings. When the alarm goes off at 7am I hit the snooze a couple of times. Well not anymore...I have promised Cameron that I will get up before 7 am so that he doesn't feel rushed getting ready for the bus. We've also decided that he needs to eat before he goes to school...his school serves breakfast at 9 am. The first week or two of school I was having Cameron eat a bowl of cereal or a piece of toast before getting on the bus but he was complaining about not being hungry for breakfast at school. Here at home, on our days off we don't eat breakfast right away....most mornings we wait a good hour before I rush into the kitchen to make breakfast. He told me last week though that it would be easier to ride the bus if he ate a little bit of breakfast before going to school...that way the bus ride wouldn't feel so long because he's not hungry! Sometimes as a Mom I pick my battles and this was one I wasn't willing to push back in September because I doesn't do me any good to force him to eat! Any how, it seemed to make a difference today.
It's funny to think that over the Christmas break I was counting down the days till he went back to school and now after just one day back I'm looking forward to spring break. I miss him when he's gone...he is so funny! J is hysterical when Cameron is gone. He runs around like a crazy child and seems to really enjoy the attention he gets when it's just him. I remember why we waited so long to have a second child :)
Today I'm dreaming of spring and the warmth and sunshine that will come with it!
Anyhow, We've had a good few days. Cameron started school today and did NOT say anything this morning about not wanting to go to school!!! Yay!!! In fact he was in a super mood. We've set some goals for each other so hopefully that is helping...I hate getting up early and I have two kids that sleep in most mornings. When the alarm goes off at 7am I hit the snooze a couple of times. Well not anymore...I have promised Cameron that I will get up before 7 am so that he doesn't feel rushed getting ready for the bus. We've also decided that he needs to eat before he goes to school...his school serves breakfast at 9 am. The first week or two of school I was having Cameron eat a bowl of cereal or a piece of toast before getting on the bus but he was complaining about not being hungry for breakfast at school. Here at home, on our days off we don't eat breakfast right away....most mornings we wait a good hour before I rush into the kitchen to make breakfast. He told me last week though that it would be easier to ride the bus if he ate a little bit of breakfast before going to school...that way the bus ride wouldn't feel so long because he's not hungry! Sometimes as a Mom I pick my battles and this was one I wasn't willing to push back in September because I doesn't do me any good to force him to eat! Any how, it seemed to make a difference today.
It's funny to think that over the Christmas break I was counting down the days till he went back to school and now after just one day back I'm looking forward to spring break. I miss him when he's gone...he is so funny! J is hysterical when Cameron is gone. He runs around like a crazy child and seems to really enjoy the attention he gets when it's just him. I remember why we waited so long to have a second child :)
Today I'm dreaming of spring and the warmth and sunshine that will come with it!
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Going Private
Hey All! Happy New Year!
We have decided to go private :(
I've had a couple of weird comments from people I don't know and a new follower that I don't know as well. I hate to have to do this but the safety of my family is my priority!
If you want to be able to view my blog after this Friday....send me a message on facebook with your email address. Thanks for your understanding and I hope that those that are our friends and family that follow us to stay up to date with us this way will still stop by and say Hi!
Amber :)
We have decided to go private :(
I've had a couple of weird comments from people I don't know and a new follower that I don't know as well. I hate to have to do this but the safety of my family is my priority!
If you want to be able to view my blog after this Friday....send me a message on facebook with your email address. Thanks for your understanding and I hope that those that are our friends and family that follow us to stay up to date with us this way will still stop by and say Hi!
Amber :)
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