The Nelson Family Blog

Good Greif Charlie Brown

2011-12-13T13:13:00.000-08:00

This year, for the first time ever, Taylor and I decided we were going to go out and chop down our very own Christmas tree. We obtained a permit in October, and this past weekend trekked the entire family out into the woods to find us "the perfect tree." When we got there, we all got out of the car and began hiking to find the best one in Prescott National Forrest (aka: the pine-less forest.)

A few minutes into walking, Lucy had to go to the bathroom. I tried to help her pee in a squat, but she refused. She kept telling me, "No, I go in the Potty!" until she had an accident in her pants. So Taylor and the kids trudged ahead, looking for the perfect tree. Lucy and I returned to the warm car where she could play naked. A few minutes after being in the car, Abby emerged of the woods. Her feet were too cold to keep going. (She has outgrown her boots, and I refuse to get another pair until after Christmas. Her tennis shoes were not cutting it in the snow. :) Maybe 10 minutes after that Parker ran out of the woods.

"Parker," I asked, "did you find a tree?" "Not yet," he replied. "It was getting too steep for me. So I came back." So Parker climbed in the car with us. The kids played in the warm car, while I tried to get Christmas music to come through on my phone---to no avail.

Some time after that, I decided I probably should go out and look for Taylor. What if he needed help. So I left the car, locked the kids in, and started trudging to see what was going on. As I did, I found Taylor hauling this god-awful tree behind him. "It was the best there was," he said. One whole side of the tree was bare. "I figured we could put the bare side against the wall, and maybe no one will notice." We both started laughing and hauled it to the car.

Once decorated, it was apparent how bare the poor tree really was. The star hangs off to one side, and the ornaments look like a really bad attempt to make our tree look pretty. Taylor and I discussed whether or not we will do this again. I think we decided that we will. It was fun, and besides, a Charlie B. tree fits our little family quite well. Merry Christmas Charlie Brown!

Snow Days

2011-12-12T21:06:00.000-08:00

Unlike most stay at home moms... I HEART Snowdays. Sure it means driving on our road will be absolute HELL for the next week, but there is nothing like waking up and looking out our window. Its purely breath taking. It might even make the constant driving back and forth between town, worth it.

I love watching the kids get excited, and go outside to make snow-angels. I love to watch them try to build a snow man in our tiny Prescott snow. I love making them hot chocolate when they come inside frozen because they ran out dressed improperly, only to defrost and to run back out with better clothes on and smiles on their faces. Right now I am hoping that we will have another snow day tomorrow.

Halloween

2011-12-11T11:52:00.001-08:00

I have been horrible on blogging this year. It seems since I started working (albeit only a few hours a week) and we moved into our house, my blog has suffered greatly. I want to keep it up, so one day I can have it printed as a family journal. Hopefully, I will be better in the coming year.

So to backtrack....we spent another Halloween enjoying the hoopla only found on Mount Vernon in Prescott. Abby was a pirate, Parker a skeleton, and Lucy was Cinderella. We survived the chaos, with only losing the boys (in the crowd of hundreds of costumed kids) for only a couple of minutes. :)

Vacation

2011-10-17T21:19:00.000-07:00

Its SO hard to come back from vacation. I can still smell the candy shops on main-street of Disneyland and see those huge colorful lollypops in my minds eye. Ahhh........Great....now I'm drooling.

Cousins Preslee, Cash, and Tag were able to join us for the first part of the trip, making our holiday even more fun.

Disneyland was incredible. The kids were in heaven since they were finally tall enough (not Lucy) to ride the "cool" rides. Favorite rides for Abby and Parker included Big Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain. We rode those A LOT. Lucy set the record for most rides on "the pooh ride." She probably rode it at least 15 times during the trip. That is all she wanted to do with an occasional tea cup ride thrown in. Grandma Jan is now a pooh ride expert!

Karen and Cousin Cole also stopped in for some Disneyland action. It was so good to see them.What a red-headed cutie!

California Adventure has an animation area, where the animators teach you how to draw different characters. Of course Abby loved this. When we were done and compared our sketches hers was undoubtedly the best. Again....where did this talent come from????

Ran into Ann, David, and Jack at Disneyland. Seriously, what were the odds that we ended up on the same log together unintentionally. They are wonderful people.

And my favorite....Lucy decided to potty train herself on the trip. Hey... when you gotta go, you gotta go.

Jake the Cat

2011-10-05T22:34:00.000-07:00

When we were looking at houses....oh, I dont know....six months or so ago...we went to a foreclosed house that had a really cute red barn. And in that really cute red barn, lived a really nice black cat. And my really cute 5 year old son, fell in love with that cat, so much so that we went back many, many, times to feed it. But then the house sold. We contemplated stealing the nice cat for our saddened son, but decided that probably wasn't the right thing to do. So we promised our cute five year old, that when we get a house of our own, he could have a barn cat just like the one in the cute red barn.

Well six months or so later, we moved into our new house, and that five year old did NOT forget our promise. In fact he reminded us of it. So we agreed we would go to the humane society, and adopt an OUTDOOR ONLY kitten the day after we moved in. So we did. And that five-year old loved his orange tabby more than any boy could love a pet.

Soon after we adopted the kitten we noticed that there was a large hawk who lived in the tree in our backyard. (Remember, we had only lived in our house a day or so.) A large, red hawk....who would love to eat the nice little kitten for a snack. So the outdoor kitten soon became an indoor kitten. One that sleeps on our beds, and sits on our laps. Now I have a litter box in my laundry room, and cat toys on the floor. How did this happen????

Meet Jake the cat, (aka: Jakey) who weaseled his way into this family. He allows two-year-olds to carry him around (even by the tail.) He likes it when our dog wrestles with him. He doesn't mind when certain 7 year olds dress him up, or a 5 year old makes him stay in his fort. My kids are obsessed with him, and I cant believe I am saying this...but I sort of like him too.

August Catchup

2011-09-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

In August we moved into our new house. We finally have a home we can call our own. It is my dream to die in this house. I know that sounds weird, but really I am prepared to live here the rest of my life. It was everything both Taylor and I wanted. The house was a foreclosure on ten acres and needs A LOT of work. Some day I will post before and after pics, but for now you will have to settle with some outside BEFORE photos.

Also in August, the kids went back to school. I cant believe my little boy is a kindergartner. I am pretty sure the moment you have kids, your life speeds up ten-fold. I couldnt get my camera to work on the first day of school, so I had to use my phone. Then for some reason my phone would only take photos in black and white that day. Grrrrrr.......Are you seeing a pattern of complete craziness in my summer posts???? Im so glad we survived the insanity.

July Catch Up

2011-09-28T21:33:00.000-07:00

July was filled with birthdays, packing, cleaning, working, and chaos.

For Parkers fifth birthday we threw an on-the-fly pizza and swim party with his best little buds. And when I say on the fly, I mean I invited people pretty much that day. Terrible I know....

Lucy turned two this July. She got cupcakes and presents at home. I vow that next year I will be better at documenting her day. :(

Happy birthday to both you!!! I love you~

June Catch Up

2011-09-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

Im back....and I cannot say that the last 4 months have not been a complete ridiculous whirlwind. I dont think I have been so busy since well....never, or at least so tired since Taylor was in lawschool and I was trying to hold everything together myself.

This summer I took two (and a half) trips to California for CrossFit. I was lucky enough to get to bring along the kids, and my totally fun teenage sister-in-law for one of the trips. I only had to "work" in the evenings which left a lot of beach time for us during the week. I would have loved to have shown you some of the totally awesome CrossFit Kids stuff I saw too, but felt awkward taking photos of random children exercising without their parents permission. Creapy!!! You'll have to settle for beach pics.

It must be nice to run "free" on the beach!!!

We were even able to meet up with my good friend Jo from Pepperdine on Coronado island. Boy, do I miss her!

"Busy" the Ultimate Understatement

2011-08-05T22:54:00.000-07:00

Seriously, this summer was crazy. SO FUN, but SO crazy. And not just a little crazy, but insane, knock you off your feet crazy.

NO, I cannot exhale yet. Just get me through to September and then maybe I can come up for air.

AND through the absolute chaos of buying a house, birthdays, traveling for Crossfit Certs, multiple summer camps, and oh yeah my new job....I have somehow lost my camera cord. Did I leave it in that hotel in Alpine, or the motel in Ramona? Or maybe its in the back of my car. I wouldn't know. Ordering a new one right now would be pointless. Ill be lucky to get Parker and Lucy's July b-day pics up in September....sorry guys!

And now I must return to the craziness. I promise pics (a whole bunch of 'em) when I return.

Just Because...

2011-07-05T20:32:00.001-07:00

Just Because I want to see this again in 10 years.

And that concludes me blatantly ripping photos from other peoples blogs.

Colorado River

2011-07-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

Also, in May we went canoeing and paddleboarding with the Nelson/Noble clan down the Colorado river. It wasnt much of a "trip", because we put in only minutes from Taylor's parents house.

Before we started, someone mentioned that when you are in a canoe with your spouse it becomes a metaphor for how your marriage works.....yup, that's me pulling the kids, and Taylor in the raft!

Zooming in.....

I thought paddleboarding involves standing up~???

Thats better.

Dragon Warriors

2011-07-05T20:16:00.000-07:00

Tball ended in May; Im a bit behind. The Dragon Warriors had a great time, and so did the coaches. There is nothing like watching random chicken actions in the outfield.

Cheer Camp 2011

2011-06-20T23:38:00.000-07:00

Another great year at Cheer Camp! I had 25 girls signed up, making a great team atmosphere. It was super hot this year so I added water games into the mix; a total hit!!!

Thanks to my helpers, Katie, Mackenzie, and Mackenzie. I couldn't have done it without you.

Tanner is Home

2011-05-26T22:04:00.000-07:00

Taylor's little brother Tanner returned home off his mission from Indiana last week. We met him at the airport, with all the hoopla you could imagine. The 21 year old handled it like a pro.

Cowgirls Dont Cry

2011-05-20T21:05:00.000-07:00

We are really lucky to have family with horses. Abby wants a horse soooo bad. No, make that soooo, soooo bad. Unfortunately its not in the cards for her right now, but her saving grace is her cousin Preslee who cares for three horses herself.

(Side note: A little while back Abby and I were talking about future Halloween costumes and I mentioned that she should be a cowgirl next year.She replied with, "Mom, you cant be something you already are for Halloween.)

Last week, Preslee taught Abby how to put on a saddle, clean the horses hooves, and feed and water them. Not to mention the two girls rode around the arena together for hours. It was wonderful! Abby left their house singing...."Cowgirls Don't Cry....Ride Baby Ride."

Thank you to the Whettens for being so accommodating to my cowgirl wanna-be.

Just Because....

2011-05-20T13:13:00.000-07:00

Warrior Dash

2011-05-17T00:12:00.000-07:00

This day was probably the most fun I have had since college. One for the "bucket list."

Completely recommend this to anyone, as long as they can tolerate running next to a man in a thong speedo!

Girls Night Out

2011-05-04T10:43:00.000-07:00

A little late on this...but I have to post so I dont forget about our awesome night. There is nothing like a girls night out with grandma! And let me tell you, we rocked it all the way to.....well.....10:30 pm. :) Cant wait to do it again. Thanks mom for organizing!

A Techie Generation

2011-04-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

Abby has started her own blog! I merely helped her set up the account (per her request) and she took it from there. I suggest you bookmark: www.abbigalelane.blogspot.com.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail

2011-04-26T23:53:00.000-07:00

We had three extra kids staying with us this Easter Sunday. We started the morning with an Easter Egg hunt. The Easter Bunny burned the mid-night oil and hid 140 eggs over our two acres at 1 am, so the 6:30 am wakeup call was a bit rough.

Even Lucy actually got how the egg hunt game works. I was shocked!

And then we got a surprise........

Oh Easter Bunny, who shows up every year.....the kids love you, I love you, and I am sure my nosy neighbors love you too. Thanks for making Easter so special, even if you leave your watch on. :)

Play Ball!!!

2011-04-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

T-ball season has started and Holdsworth Law Firm's "Dragon Warriors" are on the prowl! Our first game was pretty much as you would expect with kids running to third base instead of first after hitting the ball, fighting over the ball, and kids' who forgot their gloves! Lets just say it was quite entertaining...but "Coach Nelson" held it together beautifully.

Cattle Crash

2011-04-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

What do you do when a truck full of cattle rolls over on the highway infront of you while driving in the middle of nowhere? Four hours of this.....

This....

Did I mention I was alone with the kids???.....

With no snacks....!!!! Luckily the nice grandma infront of us let us share her box of granola bars. Here she is talking to her grandkids!

People were walking their dogs, and talking to one another. The kids and I took a walk.....

And collected (what I would let them touch) random highway trash. This was Parkers favorite part.

All in all, we survived. Im just glad the weather was perfect. And note to self, keep snacks in the car at all times....even if you are driving a mere hour and a half to your parents house.

Oh, and because I know you are curious, no we did not get to see the squished cattle when we finally were let go. Just a bunch of bull dozers. I guess, they bulldozed them off the cliff....???? Yuck!

Its here....Again!

2011-03-30T20:15:00.000-07:00

We are going for year 2 of Cheer Camp. Registration is open now! Click --> here <--for details.

In a Nutshell

2011-03-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

I hate posts that skim through a months worth of activities, but alas, I have gotten behind. Here is March in a Nutshell.

We started March with Abby's class play. She had the lead role in "The Tortoise and the Hare." It even included a singing solo. Spoiler alert*** She won the race.

One weekend we went for a family hike in Prescott National Forest, about 10+ miles North of our house. We found this great spot in the middle of nowhere with a stream and random cows. Taylor and I decided this is where we are going when the world collapses. (wink, wink.)

Spring Break started off with a bang, as I took Abby to BYU's Fairy Tales and Fantasy Ballet. Megan and Laina joined along with some of our other friends. The ballet was to the stories of Fairytales and the girls were even called up on stage to dance with the ballerinas during Intermission. Thanks Meg for inviting us!

We finished Spring Break with a Trip to Yuma. Taylor worked, the kids and I played. Sorry, Taylor. My parents even met us there for a few days to pick up some drugs in Mexico. (The good kind, as Abby would say.) Cousins Preslee and Cash were there too, so it pretty much turned into a mega-play-date.
I have to say Yuma has significantly moved up in the world since Taylor and I married. The latest addition to Yuma's coolness is the river beach park downtown.

We finished March off with Abby's birthday. Unfortunately the big day wasnt the best one ever, but I think we have recovered. You see, we ordered her present, but it got delayed and never made it in time. When we told her the night before that this will happen, she said it was okay and that the only thing she wanted for her birthday was a big cheesecake. (Have I mentioned she is her fathers girl???) When I went to bake the cheesecake the next day (her birthday) our oven was not working. So instead of the big fat New York Cheesecake she was expecting she got a tiny cheesecake made in our toaster oven.Oh and did I mention the candles I bought never made it home from the store. She had a tealight on it. So sad! Dad did come home with a couple of awesome dollar-store gifts so she had something to open. She was a good sport.

Since then we have been to Peter Piper Pizza and she has received plenty of presents from others, so I think we redeemed ourselves.

To my sweetheart who really is beyond her years, who loves Monty Python and Weird Al Yankovich (again her fathers child), and who makes me want to be a better person daily---We love you! Happy Seventh birthday!

Has it really been over a month since my last post?

2011-03-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

March has been busy, really busy. Maybe my lack of time was due the fact that I somehow found myself in charge of the elementary school yearbook (lots and lots of hours....how did that happen????) or maybe it was the fact that I started planning this years' cheer camp, or maybe its the fact that I started a new part time job this month!!!

I never thought I would be taking a job again, at least until all my kids were in school. But this one was WAY too good to pass up. Not only is it totally cool, but I get to have my kids with me while I do it. Ill post more on specifics later, but here are some photos from our Crossfit BBQ we had last week. Totally fun!
To see more photos of my kids and me in my workout spandex (not about to post that here) go to the Captain Crossfit facebook page and check us out!

Sundogs Game

2011-02-13T17:11:00.000-08:00

For family night we took the kids to their first hockey game.

Did you know Taylor and I met at a hockey game? I spent most of that night mad at him for being such a jerk when we were introduced. He now claims that he was a jerk because I grabbed his inner thigh and it made him uncomfortable. I see a flaw in this excuse for two reasons, 1) Why the heck would I grab his inner thigh the night I met him and 2) What twenty-one year old male would not like a young girl grabbing his inner thigh the first time she met him! Obviously, we got over that and since then have spent many-a-date night yelling "Hey Goalie, you suck!" at hockey games. (Umm....Hello...what else do you do in a small town in North Dakota?)

The kids had a great time and got to see three fights. Parker thought adults cheering while the players fought was sooooo funny....Abby not so much. (I thought fighting was bad, mom?) Lucy spent the night playing with the free noise makers we got.

Superbowl Sunday

2011-02-13T17:08:00.000-08:00

This is how we spent Superbowl Sunday this year.....

The entire family (minus myself....he, he....) was sick. Parker fell asleep on our tile. I kindly added blankets and his pillow pet to help his sick little body from feeling even worse after sleeping on the hard ground. Just plain sad....

Rocket Man

2011-01-21T20:33:00.000-08:00

Parker got a model rocket for Christmas. Last Saturday, it was finally warm enough to "blast" it, something Parker has been wanting to do for weeks. .Not sure who liked it more, Taylor or the kids. (And if you are wondering why I have less photos of Parker than anyone else, its because he has inherited his fathers lack of appreciation of cameras....meaning, he will prevent me taking a photo of him at all costs. I cant even tell you how many photos I have of Taylor flipping the camera off, so I wont post him to the blog...Ugh! At least Parker hasn't figured that one out yet.)

3-2-1- blastoff!!!!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-07T11:57:00.000-08:00

We woke up the day before New Years Eve to frozen pipes and a blanket of white. (It reached negative temps during the night at our house...a record for Prescott.) Taylors office closed during the bad conditions so we celebrated our "extra holiday" with a family snowball fight in the back yard.

Lucy will smile for the camera now. Eyes closed, nose scrunched.

Ooh! Snowball to the eye. Sorry bud!

Started out liking the snow....and then realized it was cold!

This girl gives no mercy during a snowball fight, but always has time to pose for the camera.

The Plastic Cup Phase

2011-01-05T12:01:00.000-08:00

9 years of marriage....

Its funny to look back and think of all you have been through. The different "phases" of your lives. "The Friend Phase," "The Dating Phase," "The Newly-Wed Phase," "The Baby Phase."

If I had to define us now, I would say we are in "The Plastic Cup Stage." Why is that? Well, because we only have plastic cups in our cupboards. Every cup made of any other material has been broken, and we gave up on having anything else. We have finally adjusted to our herd of children and realized not everything is going to be perfect all the time, but does it really matter?

So cheers to nine years of marital bliss and the "Plastic Cup Phase." Bring it on, baby!

Christmas Morning

2010-12-31T21:32:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning this year may never be topped. We are a house full of believers, and nothing is more exciting than the magic of Santa these days.

My Christmas Present to Myself

Had to include a "put it together shot." Dont you love how I include morning photos of Taylor but not myself.

Polar Express

2010-12-08T17:44:00.000-08:00

As most Arizonans know, the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams does "Polar Express" runs November through January. Based upon the book, the train takes you to the North Pole to visit Santa all along stuffing you with cookies, hot chocolate, and Christmas Carols. We again, had so much fun this year, and the best part was that my parents were able to tag along. The smiles on my parents faces as they watched the kids was almost as fun as watching the kids themselves.

After "visiting" (I use that loosely as you can only look out the train windows) the North Pole, Santa boards the train to greet the kids and gives them their magical sleigh bells. Taylor insists to us that he cant hear them, that they are broken...but the rest of us hear them loud and clear. Thank you to the Nobles for making this happen.

A Boys Love

2010-11-17T08:30:00.000-08:00

This morning I had the news on and the story about the country's most recent medal of honor winner (first since the Vietnam era) was playing. I noticed Parker intently watching him receive the medal from Obama.

I mentioned to him, "Do you see that soldier? He is getting a medal from the president for being very brave."
Parker responded, "Did dad get that medal?"
"No, he didn't. You have to be super brave to get that."
"But, Dad is the bravest I know."
"Yeah, I know, but you have to be like a superhero to get it. This guy had bad guys shooting at him, and he ran closer to the badguys twice to save his friends who were shot."
"Oh," he said. And then paused, obviously in deep thought.
And then he responded with, "My dad is SUPER brave. I know he would have done the same thing."
"I don't doubt you are right babe. Your dad would have done the same thing." I said.
And then he ran off to play.

Halloween

2010-11-03T21:28:00.000-07:00

Halloween was a little lame this year, being on a Sunday. We did manage to get Lucy in a costume which was an accomplishment in itself. (She would rip off anything we put on her so ended up in an old leo of Abby's.) I would have loved to have one photo with all the kids but now-a-days that is pretty much impossible. Oh well....maybe next year.

The Ninja

Ms. Wonderwoman

The Ballerina

Pumpkin Carving

2010-11-02T20:59:00.000-07:00

We had the kids make their own jack-o-lantern designs (Taylor helped Lucy) and then each helped dad to carve. Somehow, mom got stuck doing scraping all night....blah!

Lucy just liked playing with next years pumpkins....

Yes, this is my husband with Lucy's (aka his pumpkin) on his head. Can you guess his inspiration?

Why Everyone needs Grandmas....

2010-11-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

Sedona

2010-10-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

We finished our Fall Break from school with a trip to Sedona with my parents. Taylor had to work, so off we went traveling our separate ways again. While we were there we went on one of the most beautiful hikes I had been on. Complete with water (Lucy's favorite), old house ruins (Parkers Favorite), and wild blackberry picking (Abby's favorite.)

Family Photos

2010-10-19T22:26:00.000-07:00

Aren't these fantastic! We had our family photos redone, and I am soooo happy with them. We needed it. Parker was younger than Lucy at our last session.

Check out more photos by Holdsworth Photograpy here. Thanks Meg! We love you! And yes, eh-hem, I copied her header slideshow....but please know I only copy the best!

Guess Who?

2010-10-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

My in laws have an old version of Guess-Who that somehow always gets found when we visit. Its the original version that we used to play as kids, the one with lots of cards (some of which are missing in her set, that makes it an even more exciting game. Wink, wink.) All of us adults swear each time we are going to secretly throw it away before the next trip because of the constant pleading,... no....begging the kids do for an adult to play with them. But is pretty hard to throw it away, when the kids love it so much, and you see moments like these with Grandma.

Family Vacation

2010-10-15T23:06:00.000-07:00

Taylor and I have not really had a "family" vacation together in the past year or two. Sad, I know. It seems we each have taken our own little trips here or there, but because of one reason or another we haven't been able to go anywhere together as a family in quite a while. Finally we had decided enough was enough, and headed down for a quick two-day turnaround beach trip to San Diego with the kids.

San Diego was actually where it all began for us. A bit more than ten years ago, my family ran into Taylor and his family on Mission beach. (Taylor was already a good friend from college, so running into him on the beach was quite the coincidence.) Ditching our parents the next couple of days (sorry mom and dad, now that I think about it, it was quite rude) we ended up spending every waking hour together walking the beach, the bay, the boardwalk, belmont park, eating pizza, and watching sunsets. Although nothing never happened between us on that trip, I'm pretty sure it was the first time either of us had thought of each other in a "more than friend" way. We were married about a year and a half after that.

This trip, instead of hitting the crowded Mission Beach, we took the kids to the much more subdued Carlsbad State Beach. More surfers for Taylor to have a man crush on.....and less people so we dont lose any kids. We were all in paradise.

Three Piggy Opera

2010-10-14T21:16:00.000-07:00

The Abia Judd First Grade put on a musical play entitled, The Three Piggy Opera. It was the story of the three little pigs in told by the chorus. It was quite the show; I was pretty impressed at what first graders could do. Cheers to the new music teacher for putting this together~!

It wouldnt be October without.....

2010-10-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

A preschool field trip to the Pumpkin Patch! But before I show you anything, I need to post a little disclaimer.

Yes, apparently a visit to the "farm" is not what it used to be folks! Do you love the skull and cross bones matched with the happy farm pictures. Anywho.....

This years pumpkin patch was a little better than last. See here. It included, a hayride, a petting zoo and a corn maze. Oh wait, and how can I forget the class carousel ride, that we did over and over and over again. It is so fun to see Parker with his friends from school. I cant help but chuckle every time I see them, nor imagine them ten years from now. We are soooo in trouble!

Lucy LOVED the petting zoo. This sheep got kisses on the mouth, and a full body hug over and over and over again.

Happy with Jack in Happy Jack

2010-10-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we were invited by our dear friends, the English family, to their cabin in Happy Jack, Arizona. I forgot my camera, which killed me.... no.... tortured me the entire trip, but luckily Katie bailed me out with photos of her own.

The kids were pretty much in heaven all weekend long. I hope the memory of my little boy running around in wet-muddy jeans, with a root-beer in his hand and a smile on his face, never fades.

Thanks Katie and Eric....we had a great time!

Themes

2010-09-26T01:03:00.000-07:00

Do you ever find that the recent experiences you have in your life point to one theme? Since adulthood I can identify a handful of themed lessons Ive learned in the different periods of my life. Independence, Importance of Family, Budgeting, and pushing through when you think you cant, to name a few. This year, it seems that many experiences that have happened has led me to think of our mortality. That may sound strange, so let me explain.

Ive always known that we live and then we die, but lately it seems that Ive been reminded of this fact over and over again. Whether you will live to 86 and see your 24 grandchildren mature to adulthood or whether you will pass away unexpectedly in your thirties leaving a young family behind, you just don't know. That is up to higher powers to decide.

As depressing as it seems that we have no control as to when our time on earth expires, the more I contemplate this, the more I realize it doesn't have to be. In fact, knowing this can be used to our benefit. Making this realization is helping me to remember to live life to the fullest, to love my spouse, cherish my children, honor my parents, and say thank you to god for the life I have been given so far.

I am pretty sure that it is because of this most recent "life theme" that I wanted my camera. I wanted to capture the people I love most so that no matter what happens, we can all share in the wonderful memories we make everyday.

Its that Time Again

2010-09-11T23:32:00.000-07:00

Soccer is back! And how she ever got so lucky to be on the pink team again, I dont know. (Pink is her favorite color...just call her pinkalicious!)

Its pretty obvious that we don't have a future World Cup player on our hands, BUT Abby has a great time on the field skipping and meandering about and thats what matters right??? Her friend Maggie, coincidentally was put on her team AGAIN this year, leaving Abby happy, and Taylor and I REALLY happy that we have friends (her totally awesome parents) to get sunburned with at the games.

Stretching

Abby and Maggie

Spent the first half of the game doing this.....

Then had a half time chat with dad....he was positive, I promise.

The talk might just have worked.....

Ahh! Thats a little better....

Cant have a soccer post without the team mascot.....she ran on to the field at least 3 times during play!

Heroes Lunch

2010-09-11T22:55:00.000-07:00

Abby's new school has a really cool event every September 11th, or September 10th in this case. They invite all the local heroes of our town (fireman, policemen, EMTs, etc.) to the school for a free school lunch with the kids in appreciation for their contributions to our community.

Seeing those men and women squeezing in on those little seats eating with the kiddos was a scene that could melt anyone's heart. And the kids, loved it of course. Some received fireman hats, and police badge stickers by the local heroes. In dedication to our everyday heroes and those who lost their lives 9 years ago, here is Abia Judd's "Heroes Lunch."

60 years of Rod

2010-09-10T23:03:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we celebrated Taylor's father's sixtieth birthday with his family. We swam, we ate, but most of all we did what his family does best, sit around and rip on one another. Well, I guess its more like we all sit around and listen to Amanda and Taylor rip on each other, which is more entertaining than pretty much any other activity I can think of.

We celebrated "Grandpa Rod's" birthday with 60 gifts that remind us of him. Forward emails, Sams club sparkling water, singing cards, hunting hats, Ricola, AS-SEEN-ON-TV, and Walmart, to name of few. If you know my father-in-law you know what a wonderful person he is. I can honestly say my life wouldnt be the same if I had never met him. Happy 60th Rod!

What is Art?

2010-09-05T23:57:00.000-07:00

I have never been much of an art fanatic. I appreciate "the arts" with an emphasis on "the" because to most that includes dance, music, and maybe photography. But when it comes to paintings, drawings, sculptures, etc....my interest is only mildly peaked..... Okay, really I find staring at paintings, drawings, etc, quite boring..... sorry, art lovers.

But as I mentioned before, Abby however, loves art. Its her favorite "special" at school, and thus waits all week for " art day." The other day we were at the pizza place and there was this painting of an artichoke outdoors. It was Abby who brought to my attention how "cool" it was because the artichoke was painted to look like a tree standing alone in a field. I acknowledged that she was right, and was semi-embarrassed (yet impressed) that it took my six year-old to point that out to me.

So I have begun to embrace her love and start my own art gallery of Nelson originals in my very own home. A perfect way to decorate my hallway. I figure, I'll collect one or two a year, and in a few years my hall will be full of my favorite pieces. Art that I appreciate.

The Circle of Life

2010-09-02T21:32:00.000-07:00

Since seeing the mega-playdate photos the kids have been begging me to take more photos of them on the tramp.

One of the best things that have happened in my life lately, has been the addition of our trampoline. Every evening we used to have ridiculous sibling fights in the hour or so before the over exhausted kids made their way to bed. Now we have jumping, and laughing, and a mother that can handle the nightly routine without wanting to SHOOT her brains out. (Okay, not really, but you get my point.)

You know, I had a trampoline as a child. I can still feel the excitement building, as my parents set it up for the first time. Too bad as an adult, it proved to be way more EXHAUSTING, than exciting to set it up. At least Abby and Parker felt anticipation while Taylor and I broke our backs getting it together.....the circle of life my friends, the circle of life.

Boys will be Boys

2010-08-31T21:56:00.000-07:00

We named it the Super-Mega-Ninja-Jedi-Playdate. Before they got out of the car, I told them my house had only one rule...no fighting. Wrestling is okay, but the first hint of nasty name calling, feel bad fighting, the Super-Mega-Ninja-Jedi-playdate would be off. Everything else is my house was pretty much game.

So what do four four-year old friends do on a one-rule-only afternoon? See for yourself.

What you lookin at?

2010-08-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

Nelson Family Farms: An Update 2

2010-08-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

We are well into harvest season, and now it is review time.

First, overall I have to say I have loved having a garden. My counter has been full of fruits and veggies all summer, and although they may not be as good as what you find in the store (my midget corn cobs for example) there is definitely something to be said about eating the food that YOU grew. Its exciting!( In your face nosy neighbor who at the beginning of planting told me nothing would grow the way I was doing it. I think I cried that night I was so upset.)

I realize that this is not going to be the most interesting post for my readers, but I need to document my thoughts on what grew well etc so...I apologize ahead of time. Here goes....

Next year:

Tomatoes-love the grape tomatoes. Replant one grape, one cherry, and one celebrity, etc. Any more is just too much!

Corn- Corn need water. Lots of it. Double the water on the corn. I'm pretty sure that water was the root of my midget corn problem.Space 8 inches at least.

Lettuce-Plant a couple plants, but mostly seeds. Vary seed planting time. Having 10 heads all ready to be eaten at one time is ridiculous!

Cucumbers-One plant is plenty! I dont really like cucumbers anyway. Plant along the fence with seeds, Let em grow up.
Bell peppers- One green, and one red needed only.

Watermelon-Plant Lots, your kids love em. Seeds.

Cantaloupe- Plant lots, they were delish, but only about 2 came per plant. Seeds.

Squash-plant spaghetti squash and yellow squash only. You dont really eat the rest! Grow on the fence. Seeds.

Peas- Plant in group from seeds only. Plant early!

Carrots-East Peasy, Plant more.

Onions- Plant farther apart. Space 6 inches. No rows necessary.

Cabbage- Dont plant! They dont work here.

Spinach- Didn't do great, but try it again from seeds, water often, plant early.

Basil, Rosemary- Plant it again, so fun!

Green Beans- Plant a few plants, in rows, away from the fence. No need to plant a ton.

Honeydew-TBD next week.

Pumpkins- TBD in fall.

Sweet Potatoes- TBD in fall.

Additional things to plant next year:

Cilantro- even though you hate it, plant it so you dont have to hear your husband complain that there is no cilantro.

Potatoes- plant regular potatoes if you can get starters.

Preschool

2010-08-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

Preschool started this week for the Big P. The morning of...he immediately ran into our room to tell his dad that today was his day to start school. Taylor responded by asking him who was going to be in his class. He answered, "Ummm....Luke, and Ben, and Ummm.....Mac!" Taylor looked at me, and said...."Well, Isn't that a motley crew." Parker has not only his cousin with him at school, but two of his closest friends also, proving for an exciting, and what can only be called an interesting year ahead. Luckily, I am pretty sure his teacher is up for the challenge.

Her Dog

2010-08-18T21:24:00.000-07:00

We started letting the dogs inside again....give it one last try. They were banished from the house in March, after mom had a complete breakdown over the constant chaos and cleaning. Yes, the cliche' words, "Its them or me!" just MIGHT have been uttered. But now they are older and finally starting to calm down, thus my loathing has turned to tolerating. (They ruined their chances for me to "like" them when they jumped through the screen of our open window this week.)

Its hard not to smile though when the family is sitting around and Abby is loving on her dog like this all night. She sweetly wraps Sandy in a blanket, lays her head on top, and drowsily pets her as they both head off to doggy dream land. She loves HER dog---sigh----and so too must I.

1st grade here we come.

2010-08-10T21:42:00.000-07:00

New clothes, New Shoes, New School. First day of school came and went, and this year no tears from mom.

You better work...covergirl.

Work it girl.......

Work..... sashay shante.

Natural History Museum

2010-08-07T22:35:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been proud of yourself....I mean really stinking proud that you did something. That is how I felt after tackling this little adventure with three kids on my own.

The last day of our trip I needed to kill some time so that I could drive home in the evening (aka: when kids are sleeping.) I had heard that it was "free" day at the Natural History Museum that particular day so I decided to go, with my three kids, to one of the busiest days for the museum all year. Just look at the line to get in!

Once in, it was a madhouse. I am pretty sure we waited to use the bathroom for about half an hour. We did have a good show though as one over-exhausted mother got into a full on screaming match with a stressed out day-care worker over who was in line first.

So yes, I was crazy...but would I do it again???... probably. Well, maybe not on free day. The kids, especially Abby, had a great time. After about 4 hours there, it was time to leave, but Abby did not want to. She was begging to stay longer. I ended up having to promise her I would bring her back next time we were in town. (She must be my child because Taylor and I both secretly love museums! In fact one of our first dates was to a museum. Nerdy. I don't admit that to many.)

Mr. Fingers

2010-08-05T19:04:00.000-07:00

Why visit anywhere in L.A. when you have a zany uncle, an equally unique and wonderful aunt, and their over the top crazy cat to hang with? At least thats how we felt when we visited Court and Rachel on the last part of our trip. We really did nothing but hang out for two days and were totally content the entire time.

For some odd reason, I love the pic above. I think its the story that accompanies it that really makes me smile. This photo was taken while Court was holding (Mr. Fingers), running around the apartment looking for flies. You see, Mr. Fingers the cat likes to eat flies, and will catch them, but only after making this weird gutteral sound. (Seriously, you would never believe it would come from a cat.) So after seeing a few flies in the house, Court began chasing them with Mr. Fingers, leaving the kids in hysterical laughter. Sometimes I wish my photos were accompanied by audio.

California (Part 2)

2010-08-01T23:06:00.000-07:00

From my cousins house I headed out to West Hills to stay with Mary Jo, who I worked with at Pepperdine. We spent most of Saturday at the beach, along with Minda and Christina (additional friends that I used to work with.) I miss them all very much!

This was Lucy's first trip to the beach. I am pretty sure she will be pooing sand for the next couple of weeks.

Binki Bandit

2010-08-01T22:34:00.000-07:00

Lucy won herself the above name while staying at my cousins. Anytime we took our eyes off her, she would take her binki out, run over to Cole, take his, and walk away as if nothing happened. Cole's revenge was the fact that she looked ridiculous sucking on the newborn sized binki.

California (Part 1)

2010-07-30T10:20:00.000-07:00

Poor, poor, Taylor was not able to take a vacation this summer at work, and since I was craving the beach and a dose of some of my favorite people in the world I decided to drive back up to our old stomping grounds.

First stop on my tour de Los Angeles, was my cousin Karen's house. Karen is an amazing shoe designer for Steve Madden, and recently inherited the title of "mommy" when her fire headed son, Cole came into the world at the beginning of summer.

Between his fashion savvy mother, and his totally "hip" dad, Cole is destined to be a cool kid. I mean, just look at whats hanging in his nursery.

Yesterday, we all went on an outing to take Abby to the famed American Girl doll store in the Groves shopping center.

The Place almost is 10,000 square feet of dolls complete with a doll hair salon (profesional hairstylists do your dolls hair), doll hospital (for those heavily loved dolls), doll photo shoot area, and a restaurant where your doll has its own highchair. They even sell baby dolls for your doll. Abby was pretty much in little girl heaven, Parker....not so much.

We spent the rest of our vacation doing this.....

and this...

You get the point. Karen has a spectacular backyard, its like a little Mediterranean oasis in the middle of Easle Rock.

And because I know Grandma Mary is reading this, I will leave you with pics of her beautiful new great grandson, Cole. Just look at that hair!

Practice

2010-07-26T22:34:00.000-07:00

Our good friends from law school, the Summers, came to visit this weekend. I couldnt help but take these baby blues out into a field and love on them with my camera. WOW!

Thanks Brad and Beth for visiting us.

One!.... Singular Sensation...Every Little Step She Takes.

2010-07-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

Lucy turned one this week. Its unbelievable that a little more than a year ago, we were told that we might have a deaf or blind baby, and instead we are enjoying a beautiful, perfectly healthy, crazily chaotic, toddler. A little girl who prefers to run around topless and who loves her daddy more than anything in the world. (I think its common interests in Dr. Pepper, headphones, and computer keyboards that bring these two together.)

One interesting thing about this girl is that she has a major sweet tooth, unlike any one year old I know.When we walked into the bakery section the day before her b-day, I ended up having to leave the store in a hurry as she started freaking out at the cakes.... yep..... a total tantrum over the Carebear cupcakes! She wanted one and there was no relenting.

So for her birthday, what better present to her, than to let her just go to town on the floor with the hot pink Carebear cupcake she picked out the day before.

Happy birthday Lucy!

P.S. She ate the whole thing!

Nelson Family Farms: An Update

2010-07-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

We are well into the gardening season, and I still am not sure how I feel about my little project. I have loved with all my heart on my garden, and had have some success, yet my extremely high expectations still hold me back from feeling happy with it.

The lettuce and onions have done great. We have lettuce coming out of our ears.

Our vine plants are large. We have 2 nice canteloupes, and a ton of small watermelon.Whether they will be any good to eat, I'll let you know later. My cucumber and squash are flowering, but I see no fruit yet. Sigh!

But whats really frustrating me is my midget corn. I dont know whats wrong with them. They are already flowering, but are only about 3 feet high. Our neighbors' corn stalks are in the same flowering stage, but are huge....like 6 feet high. This really bothers me. Oh, and also I have one tomato plant that flowers and flowers and flowers but has no tomatoes. I swear its teasing me. Luckily, its friend the grape tomato plant, has plenty to share. All you aggies out there, if you know anything about midget corn and tomatoes that need in-vitro, let me know. Its killing me!

Parkers Day

2010-07-13T21:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday when Parker woke up (6:00am) I asked him what he wanted to do for his birthday. It was his day, I explained, and he gets to make the plans. He decided he wanted to first open his presents, and so we did, at 6 am. After presents which included two small lego sets and a nerf sword from mom and dad, and a homemade necklace from Abby, I asked him what else he wanted to do.

Parker told me that most of all he wanted me to call his "buddy Jack" and ask his mom if we could all go swimming. So I did, and Jacks mom met us at the pool.

This is Parker with Jack. Parker refers to him as his "buddy." In Parkers world, Jack is his best friend, never-mind the fact that Jack is four and a half years older than him. This special relationship is something I have never seen before. Parker adores, no wait, worships Jack, and Jack not only tolerates it but loves Parker back. He treats Parker as if he was really was his best friend, and includes him in everything he does when Parker is around. It is the sweetest thing I have ever seen. I am not sure how long it will last, but it has been going on for over a year now and the the bond has not yet seemed to fade.

So after swimming with Jack, Parker wanted to eat pizza, so we met Taylor at Peter Piper for some games and dinner.

Cant have a Peter Piper birthday without a little ski ball. I like his lay-down technique.

When inquired as to what type of birthday cake he wanted, Parker told me he wanted to make chocolate brownies, with lots of chocolate frosting, and gummy-worms all over the top. Oh, and the candles,had to be green. Done, and Done! (What can I say, the kid knows what he wants and just so happens to have an extremely developed dessert palate.)

Its good to be four! Happy birthday Parker.

El Quatro de Julio

2010-07-09T13:19:00.000-07:00

I love Independence Day! Not sure if its the colors, the food, or the love I have for my country, but it is probably my favorite holiday.

We had fourth of July at my house this year (its a tradition to have a big family shin dig weekend in Taylors family.) And because we had family coming up from Yuma (aka: the carne asada capital of the world....minus that little country called Mexico) I asked them to bring some up for our party meat. (Im not kidding, if you haven't had Yuma carne asada, you would die if you found out what you were missing.) Building on tortillas and carne, I found my party turning into a fiesta and I cant say I was sad.....so much better than the typical hambs and dogs. Some teased it was in celebration of (or protest of ...depending on your views) our new immigration laws.....but honestly i just love Carne!

The grub.....cant get much better than that. And see....no Mexico colors.

Gma and Gpa (both sets) couldn't get enough of little Lucy Lu.

Oh, and this cracks me up. Meet David, Taylors cousin, and his wonder-dog Trumpy. Trumpy follows David everywhere. Sandy and Colt didnt like him much but everyone else did.

That whole bag is filled with Carne Asada. Can you say leftovers?

Oh and did I mention there was a pinata?

Saying Goodbye to Bad Pics

2010-07-07T00:24:00.000-07:00

For over a year now, I have been wanting no, not true, longing for a better camera. And no, not a little sissy (insert Jefe's accent from Three Amigos Here) camera like that I have been shooting with, a good camera...one that would capture the people I care about flawlessly.

Well, my friends, thanks to one of the best birthday presents of my life, and a very patient photographer friend who helps me, my dreams have come true. I have a great camera, with a spectacular lens. I feel like a kid in a candy store....I have a hard time putting it down. I have SO much to learn about how to use it, but I have been practicing and every once and a while I'll get a reasonable shot.

So with this post I say farewell to bad pics..... see you on the flip side!

Random Pic that Makes me Smile

2010-07-01T00:15:00.000-07:00

All she needs, (and desperately wants) is a horse....And maybe a pair of jeans.

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas...?.... I dont think so. (The tell-all on our trip.)

2010-06-30T23:01:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went up to Vegas for my grandparents' 60th anniversary dinner. 60 years together is quite a feat, especially these days. The whole thing actually made me realize how lucky Taylor and I are. Both sets of our moms and dads have been happily married (30+) years and all four sets of grandparents (Wanda and Ray in heaven) are still together too! There is something to be said by that for sure.

Anyhow, we had a great time and it was nice to spend my birthday (the same day as my grandparents' anniversary) among family. Although, I have to admit Vegas is definitely not the same as when I was a kid.

When I was a kid you went to Vegas and the "adult" stuff didn't come out until the kids went to bed. There were waterparks and rollercoasters, arcades, and kid themed shows. Now a days there is no waterpark, the rollercoasters and arcades are in disrepair, the pools are full of drunk 21 year olds, and kid-themed shows have disappeared. And did I mention that pole dancers are nakedly dancing in the first floor of the hotels starting at 8:00 at night....yep folks, before dark. Sad....

We unfortunately found that last one out walking back through the Flamingo after dinner. Abby saw the girls first, and the conversation went something like this....

Abby: Whoa! Mom, look at those girls dancing. (Wide-eyed...and a little taken back.)
Mom: I see them. And I would be very sad if I ever saw you do that.
Abby: Why?
Mom: Do you think those girls are dressed very modestly? (As we are walking by...)
Abby: Shakes her head no.
Mom: Thats why.... They are not using their bodies in a nice way. You are way to special to do that.
Abby: Oh. (And she gave me a walking side-hug.)

As we walked away I wondered what their moms thought of their profession.

Oh, and as a side note, dont go and see the pirate show at Treasure Island. Apparently its not for kids anymore either. We heard that second-hand after my cousin took her 8 year old to see it, and left horrified.

Despite the change in atmosphere at Vegas, we did have a good time. We swam, rode the monorail (aka: the train) in a circle (twice, back to back per Parkers request), gorged ourselves with food, and showed the kids the different themed casinos. As far as favorites from the trip, Abby loved the Bellagio fountains, Parker the monorail, and Taylor, watching the U.S play in the world cup at Caesars Palace (minus the loss.) Lucy loved the Raspberry Nepolians we ate at Paris, Paris, and so did her grandpa. :)

And she's off

2010-06-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at Abby's piano lesson I was telling her teacher (my good friend Katie) that I could tell that Lucy wants to start walking and that the day before she even attempted (and failed) at a step. So, Katie had an idea....to "encourage" her by waving items she wants infront of her. And boy did it work! We started with toys....

Those were her first steps ever! How lucky I am to have them on video. well, when that got old we upgraded to fruit by the foot (aka: crack for kids) which increased her performance level.

By the end of the day, she had gotten it! Even a small coaxing from mom, would get her going.

First Piano Lesson

2010-06-23T22:52:00.000-07:00

Abby has started Piano. First lesson down, ???? to go.

Cheer Camp 2010

2010-06-20T22:41:00.000-07:00

This year I decided to put together a cheerleading summer camp for the little girls in the prescott area. (There is nothing like that here.) I built a blog, made some tee's, ordered poms and megaphones, recruited friends, and started my very own summer day camp. I ended up with a full group of 16 lil' cheerleaders (including Abby)---we learned cheers, made crafts, played games, and danced our hearts out all week long. Hopefully word will spread and next year I can hold two sessions.

To see my blog, camp curriculum, and a day to day description of our activities go to: prescottcheer.blogspot.com

3rd Place:Yavapai County Art Fair

2010-06-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

When I first had a little girl, I guess I always figured she'd grow up to be interested in the same stuff I am, and have talents in the same areas. However, as Abby grows I am realizing that idea was a little off, but I'm okay with that.

For example, I am horrible at art. Always have been, always will be. I was always disappointed in grade school when my projects came home with an S- on them. To this day, I cant draw much more than a stick figure. My talents were more physical in nature.

Abby however loves art. She begs me literally every day to do some sort of art project. Painting, scuplting, coloring, glueing, you name it. That is where her passion lies. As for her physical talents.....things may change....but for now, there is a lot of room for improvement. :)

A few weeks ago I got a call from Abby's principal explaining Abby had won 3rd place in the Yavapai County Art Fair and that they were going to honor her at their school assembly. He said that there were 3000 entries, so this was pretty cool.

At the assembly they gave her an award in front of the entire school, along with movie tickets for the family, and a t-shirt with her drawing on the front. The theme was "From Farm to Table." She drew a picture of a farmer working in the field with his house in the background. The front door was open, and inside lay a set dinner table with food on it. Pretty ingenious if you ask me.

Well, anyway. Abby and I may have differences in interests, but I cannot say I am not proud of her. I have begun framing some her best pieces to put in the hall on the way to the kids rooms. Maybe some day they'll be worth something. :)

Bikes, Again.

2010-06-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

This is why Taylor would not let him ride without his training wheels until Abby had mastered riding herself. A 30 second lesson and off he went.
If only the dogs would stay out of his way....

Kindergarten Field Trip

2010-05-23T15:43:00.000-07:00

Parker, Lucy and I accompanied Abby's class on their field trip to Sharlot Hall museum to see the first "governors mansion" of Arizona, (Prescott was Arizona's first capital), the first school house in AZ, and other historical AZ related landmarks and items. There is nothing like spending an entire day with kindergartners...enough said. :)

Crossed over to the Dark Side

2010-05-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

Staying home with a three year old day after day can have its challenges, but most of the time I am laughing my head off. Parkers' personality has flourished and the things he does leave me in hysterics most of the time with no one to share it with. So I dedicate this post to Parker and his crazy, zany, and yes most of the time cute but a little bit nerdy personality that I adore.

Parker spends most of his day dreaming about Star Wars. Whether its his light-saber fighting skills he practices all day long in the mirror or the battles he sets up with his figurines, this boy has the makings of a true jedi knight...(or Sith Lord....apparently to him Sith Lords are much cooler because they have better power over the force....eh, hem.....not sure how I feel about his love for the dark side.) Parker knows all the facts about star wars. Go ahead, ask him what color light saber, Master Windu has or what planet Anakin skywalker grew up on. At 3, Im pretty sure he could go head to head with anyone on Star Wars Trivia.

And then there is Playstation. We bought him a Star Wars game for the Playstaion, and lets just say that he is now limited to playing only on Mondays and Fridays. Playstation pretty much took over his mind, and he spent all waking hours trying to plan out how to beat the next level. So as parents who want their kid to lead a somewhat balanced life....we limited that...although not without appreciating the fact that our 3 year old has amazing talents when it comes to gaming and computers. (Parker can turn on the computer, go to firefox, and browse his favorite...mommy approved....websites, as if he's been doing it for years.) Speaking of which, yesterday in the car Parker was playing with my phone and showed me a short-cut of how to access his favorite gaming apps faster....something I didn't know. Nice to have around in a bind, I guess.

As a disclaimer, I would like to mention Parker has some less nerdy interests including baseball and football, but those are not as fun to write about. :)

Two Wheels

2010-05-12T22:50:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of kids start riding bikes without training wheels earlier than six....but hey....better late than never, right? Abby and Taylor have gone out almost every day this week working on riding without the "baby wheels" and she has almost got it. And that's pretty impressive if you ask me because dirt roads can be very unforgiving to a new rider.

Family Garden (Part 1)

2010-05-12T22:36:00.000-07:00

Since now we live way out....I decided we are going to embrace country living and have a garden. One that hopefully this summer will payoff with beautiful fruits and veggies (no promises though...Im not really known for my green thumb.)

So for the last 4 weekends we have all put on our "outside work clothes" and built us a garden. Although the first 3 weeks which included fence building, drip system fixing, and backfilling, was complaint city from the kids, (yes we made them help!) week four (planting) finished us off with a load full of smiles.

Both Parker and Abby got to pick what they wanted in it, with Parker pretty much only caring about watermelon, and Abby wanting peas and corn. Also into our garden went lettuce, tomatoes, spinach, onions, green onions, green peppers, and cantelope. I hope to have an update on this later in the summer. Hopefully not to say....its all dead.

Here are some shots of Week 4.

Ding Dong the Bells are going to Chime...

2010-04-23T22:23:00.000-07:00

Well, they've done it. My sister is engaged. And how better to celebrate an engagement with a girls day out trying on wedding dresses. My sister...like a model. Nothing to say but BEAUTIFUL. And Abby....she was hilarious, running rack to rack picking out what she was going to wear....complete with her own personal dressing room, tiara, and pearls.

I love that last one. Gonna have to save that for when Abby gets married. And I will say that YES....we left with THE DRESS. Which one? Well, you'll just have to wait and see. Date TBA.

Easter 2010

2010-04-08T20:15:00.000-07:00

Easter was at Tia's this year. What can I say....great food, great friends, and lots of laughs....at the Easter Bunny's expense of course. Yes, he showed up again, and although the grand horseback entrance he planned didn't quite work out (couldn't get on because the horse spooked....) we still had a great time. Hmm...I cant even imagine why a horse would spook as a gigantic white rabbit with monster buck teeth tried to mount him. Go figure!

He arrives hopping out of the brush as the Easter Bunny should. Kids scream in delight.

As you can see from the first pic, Lucy wasn't really digging the Easter Bunny.

Ella however handled it like a pro.

Lots O' Love.

The Eater Bunny Pulled this out. It says "Its time for an Easter Bunny Dance Break!"

So the stereo blared...and the Easter Bunny showed us his moves!

And we showed him ours.....

I love this pic...Look closely at the neglectful mother dancing while her baby falls over and screams on the ground.As if the mere sight of the Easter Bunny wasn't traumatic enough for Lucy.

The Gang (minus THE MEN who were too cool to pose with the Easter Bunny.)

Sunday Walks

2010-03-28T20:10:00.000-07:00

After almost 3 months of living out here, the chill has subsided and we are finally getting to enjoy the reason we moved out of town. Sure, those morning drives to school and back can be rough, not to mention the quick run to the store to pick up something you forgot does not exist any more, but on Sundays I am in heaven. There is nothing more peaceful than just walking down your dirt road looking at animal tracks, throwing big rocks, all with a view of a giant granite mountain.

Its funny how when you are not in town you get to actually know your neighbors. We know three different neighbors already, more than we knew in any apartment or house we ever lived in. Sad....but the truth. Too bad no one has kids. One neighbor of ours has an archeologist for a friend and on their property found a collection of arrowheads, a whole bucket of pottery pieces, an old Indian sewing needle, and some sort of tool used for chipping something made from rock. He told us that living on a hill like we do, we probably have stuff all over our property, and told me to look.Well the kids and I went out and found out that all of our rocks pretty much look the same to us, and that we know very little about how to find Indian artifacts. We do have a big plastic bag of miscellaneous rocks that the kids collected if anyone wants to see those. :)

Taylor and Colt

Our house from the back

Six!!!!

2010-03-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

Abby celebrated her sixth birthday this week. Boy, does time fly.....it really feels like only yesterday Taylor and I walked into a North Dakota hospital to get me some IV fluids while I had the flu, only to find out that the baby was coming. I'll never forget calling my in-laws in the middle of the night to tell them I was having the baby, and it being such a surprise that my father in law said in a dream like state, "That's nice. Good luck." And hung up the phone. We still give him a hard time about that.

Well, no big friend party this year, but we celebrated the big SIX with pizza and cheesecake at Abby's request. Favorite presents included a swimsuit and coverup, magic tricks from mom and dad, a pseudo-American Girl doll, a beading set, and a REAL digital camera (a whole 3 megapixels) from Grandma and Grandpa Unruh. (Been sitting in my moms closet since 2003, and really the best present you can give a 6 year old.)

I leave you with photos Abby took with her new camera. She's an artist in the making...watch out Megan!

I still have it....well, sort of.

2010-03-04T17:35:00.000-08:00

Recently, I met a new friend while sitting and watching the kids classes at gymnastics. She is also a stay at home mom who was an ex-gymnast. After a little leg pulling she convinced me to start attending the adult gymnastics class at our gym to flip and flop like I used to do years ago.

And then I got to bars, and uh...hem...lets just say that I need to work on arm-strength. I could barely hold myself up. Sad..... In my mind I know how to do everything I used to do. Unfortunately my body disagrees.

I have to admit, after attempting some of this stuff I was sore....no...make that extremely, barely able to move for over a week, sore. But it was fun, so alas we will continue trying to relive our peak years every Wednesday night.

And what did the kids do while I was doing my class? Mostly this.

Crawled around, entertaining themselves. Dang she's cute (and literally crawling)! I promise I usually don't neglect my children like this. :)

A Big Month for the Abster

2010-03-02T20:51:00.000-08:00

This month was huge for Abby. We started out with her receiving an award at a spirit assembly at school for showing "Pawsitive Behavior." (School mascot is the bobcat.) Her teacher nominated her for the award, because she has a good attitude at school and is always willing to help out others. The principal presented her with the award in front of the entire school as a surprise.

On stage with the winners

Abby and her teacher, Mrs. Alexander who nominated her

Then just a few weeks later, Abby lost her first tooth. This was after three agonizing weeks of her wondering when it would fall out but refusing any "help" to make it happen. Thus, her first tooth was lost as she bit into a cheese crisp, and swallowed it. In her almost obsessive worrying that the tooth fairy would not visit her because of this, she wrote a note to her explaining the situation, and asking that she would still leave her something. I guess the tooth fairy understood because in the morning there was $1.00 under her pillow.

And last, we rounded off the month with her being the student of the month "sign winner" for the entire school. They pick one "bobcat" from the whole school who exemplifies "bobcat" qualities and posts their name on the marquee outside the school. The principal also gives you a big metal sign to post in your front yard saying "Taylor Hicks student of the week lives here." Abby was so excited. Im not sure how we will be able to top this February for Abby, but I am sure she will try.

To the man who swore he would never raise a girly-girl....

2010-02-18T15:48:00.000-08:00

EAT YOUR HEART OUT TAYLOR!

Snow Days 2010

2010-01-27T20:58:00.000-08:00

Snowed in for 2 and a half days. Nothing like rotating between snow clothes and PJs all week long.

First Laugh

2010-01-21T10:29:00.000-08:00

About a week ago a friend of mine with 5 kids asked me whether Lucy had started laughing yet. I said no, and she responded with. "Well, don't expect to be the one to make her do it, first. Your kids will, before you ever do." I remember scoffing at her, thinking that of course I will make her laugh first, I am the one with her 24 hours a day.

All that day I made funny faces, tickled her, etc, etc. to no prevail. A few smiles, but not a hint of a laugh. Well, that night I put Lucy in the Abby's room so that she and Parker could entertain Lucy while I cooked. And coming from the bedroom what did I hear...well, see for yourself.

So, there you go. I guess I know my place.

Down in the Country...

2010-01-21T10:05:00.000-08:00

Well, we are finally settled. (Minus the few boxes in the garage that I refuse to unpack because I want the move to be over with.) And I am obsessed. With what???....my windows. I find myself staring all day at this.

And This...

I may have protested moving out of town, but I have to admit there are some major advantages of living here. The big question is will I succumb to wearing cowboy boots like everyone else? Hmm.....thats a tough one.

Christmas: Gone to the Dogs

2009-12-31T20:18:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning was probably one of the most memorable ever this year. Not only were we in the new house surrounded by boxes, but Santa decided it would be so cool to bring Abby and Parker each a puppy. (Mrs. Claus wasn't so sure about this, but Santa is a smooth talker and won that battle.) Christmas morning the kids woke up to filled stockings, one wrapped present each, and puppies running around the house.Ill never forget Abby rubbing her eyes at 5:15 am, and saying, "puppies?!!!"

On top of the dog kennel were the following notes to each of them that said:

Dear Abby,
Your mom and dad told me you were a great help with your baby sister this year. Because of this, I have decided to give you a puppy. The one in the pink collar is yours. She loves attention and needs lots of affection. I knew she was perfect for you the minute she was born. Please take good care of her and give her a good name.
Love, Santa

Dear Parker,
I heard you were a very good boy this year and helped your dad move all the boxes to your new house. It makes me very happy to know this. As only the best children get puppies, I hope you enjoy your dog and treat him well. Your puppy is the big one with the brown collar. He is a strong boy, who needs you to take care of him. Please give him a name he will love.
Love, Santa

Abby chose to name her dog Sandy, and Parker named his Colt. (No help from parents on naming, despite Taylor's anxiety on that matter.)

Here are photos of what might be one of the most memorable Christmas mornings ever.

Our tree: notice the boxes behind it.

Love it!

Parker's requested present item: A Bakugan

Abby with her new dog: "Sandy"

Dogs eating presents....and so it begins.

Parkers dog: Colt

Abby's pup: "Sandy"

They look cute...when they are not peeing on my floor.

Can you tell its 5 am?

Lucy and I in our Christmas morning glory.

Christmas Card

2009-12-30T19:45:00.000-08:00

I sent my christmas cards out late this year... yesterday to be exact. Why? Well let me provide you with a list of excuses....

1) We moved a couple days before Christmas.
2) We didn't know what house we were moving into until the day before we moved thus I had no address to put on them.
3) After we moved, we left out of town.
4) When we came back, we celebrated Christmas and Santa brought two (yes, two) puppies. Then we left that morning (puppies and all) and went out of town again.
5) When we returned our whole family got sick. Nothing like cleaning up kid puke every few hours from Christmas day to the present! (. Yes, I was sick as well.)
6) As I write this, I still am sitting in a mess of boxes.

So there. Beat that list of excuses!

Just in case you haven't seen it. Here it is, although our address is deleted for obvious reasons. Taylor was inspired with the idea by my bitterness toward the Arizona photo radar cameras this year. Yes, they got me more than once, and I cant let it go!

Click on the photo to see the whole thing. When I have time I need to play with my blog layout so that it will show completely. (Maybe when things settle down.)

I love how Lucy is stashed on the dashboard and Taylor is texting and looking at a map while driving! If you'll notice Abby is in a swimsuit in the middle of winter and Parker is wearing the t-shirt he never takes off. Classic! I think it really captures us as we were in 2009. Thanks to Megan for all her help.

Moving...Loads of fun.

2009-12-11T22:18:00.000-08:00

Yep we are on the move once more. This is our 7th time in eight years of marriage. I'd love to email everyone to let them know our new address but alas we are not sure. It is a long story...(deep breath)...maybe I'll share the story later...(deep breath)....but it is one of two houses here in Prescott. And guess what? As if moving is not stressful enough when we are doing it 9 days before Christmas, we wont know which house until the day before we move.

Taylor keeps telling me that it doesn't matter what house we go to, as long as we know where to drive the uhaul in the end. I guess he's right, but geez! Despite this minor/major detail I am very excited to move as we MIGHT be finally getting a home that we MAY actually stay in for a while. That will be so nice.

So while I was packing, I was trying to devise different ways of keeping Lucy entertained. And then I found it.

I think I am going to patent some sort of device that films your baby and then they watch themselves on the tv. Maybe baby einstein will buy it off of me. :)

This was Lucy's first time in front of the mirror, and I literally had 30 minutes to get things done while she was there. It was great.