Anderson Avenue

A Jett Update

2011-03-14T08:50:00.000-07:00

Here's what Jetters has been up to:

He's sort of sleeping through the night. I've created a beast, him and his passy! He wakes at 3 or 4 or both wanting it. I'm sure he'd rather eat but I'd rather him not. Not sure what to do with him. Sometimes I'm up 6 times a night shoving that dang thing in his mouth. Hmmm.

He got a little trim today. His hair was getting scraggly and it needed to be done. Looks better. I should have taken a picture but didn't so trust me when I say it's so much better!

He's learned how to smile and chat with us. We all squeal with delight when he makes darling baby noises and then try to get him to do it again.

I LOVE a baby in a towel. He's pinchable from head to toe and weighed in at 12 lbs. 14 oz. two weeks ago. He thinks it's funny to squirt us with his hose during his bath. We scream and quickly scramble to take cover. :) I'm sure inside he's laughing!

Tatum loves changing his diapers, his wet diapers NOT his poopy diapers. It's rather funny to watch her. She positions the diaper just right and then he kicks and wiggles and she has to wrestle with him again. She's really cute and has yet to be squirted, can't wait for the reaction WHEN that happens! Tuck isn't so interested in the diaper changing and immediately wants him taken away when he fills his britches with poo.

Little man. He has a lot of expressions! Some are concerned, some curious, some happy, and others mad!

Go Sun Devils! He looks like a balding old man in the picture on the right!

We still can't get enough snuggle time!

Jett's Blessing

2011-03-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

Jett's special day was on a beautiful, Arizona afternoon. Gorgeous weather, beautiful baby, and our wonderful families. It was a perfect day. Chris did a great job, with baby #4 he's a pro! Jett was oh-so handsome and he didn't even poop his yellow poop which would have ruined his handsome outfit. He behaved during the blessing and was a major hit with all who were there. Everybody loved him...of course, what's not to love!

A few other photos of the mister.

They were very proud of their brother. They counted down all week for "Jett's special day" and were thrilled to help with anything they could.

This was the best we could do with all 3. I say all 3 like it's a lot. Ha! Imagine if Jersey were here, 4 kids is definitely a lot! It was a glorious day with so much love, thanks to all who came and shared it with us!

Tucker's Tooth

2011-03-08T07:52:00.000-08:00

Tucker had a tooth that needed to come out. It was hanging but Tuck wouldn't pull it. Instead, he thought it'd be easier to have a remote control car do the deed. It just so happened that his cousin Jacob had a car that would take care of his tooth. Here's Tuck getting floss tied to his tooth in preparation.

He's ready to go!

Jacob and the car.

Wait for it...wait for it...

And with a mighty tug and a loud pop it was out!!

The search was on. Gotta leave proof for the tooth fairy! We eventually found it in the grass. We laughed about Tucker and his tooth the rest of the day. It was mighty funny and brave of him!

In the Days Since...

2011-01-30T14:15:00.000-08:00

This is how the mister spends most of his days.

Tucker had a birthday and turned 6, more on that in another post.

We still can't get enough.

He's learned to make funny faces, this goofy one is my favorite!

He still enjoys being bundled and is so handsome!

He got his foot pricked 4 days in a row to keep an eye on his bilirubin levels. It finally peeked and came down. He also failed his hearing test twice in the hospital and barely passed it twice at the specialists. He SHOULD be fine but we'll keep mindful and watch him as he develops. Look at that round face!

Tuck pulled both of his front teeth in the same day. It gives him a different look and we laugh at the words he says differently.

We all fight each other to get our snuggle time in.

Jett days 2 & 3

2011-01-28T06:49:00.000-08:00

Day 2 was much less eventful. The blondies came up for another visit and once again, couldn't get enough. Jett and I got better acquainted, he's such a good baby and so squishy! I was able to inspect every inch of him and rather enjoy his pinchy thighs, fuzzy shoulders, and his pterodactyl cry. I decided he looks like Tatum but sneezes like Tucker, 2 sneezes in a row and never any less. He moans like Tucker did when he sleeps and drools like his Dad.

He appreciates being bundled but prefers his arms left out. Even if you forget and wrap him with his arms in they always find a way to come out. His lips are smoochable and his head deliciously soft. He's mine and I'm smitten.

We got to come home on Wednesday, January 5th, a freezing cold morning. It was also Jersey's 2nd angel anniversary. How ironic he should come home this very day. Not coincidence. It was the best thing I could think of to do on this day, perhaps Jersey Girl had a hand in this. I felt like a new parent trying to dress him feeling like I'd break him.

The rest of the day we couldn't get enough of him. Tatum immediately held him when she got home from school. Sadly for her it was the last time for 4 days she'd be able to. She went from beauty queen to...

a very sick girl. She ran a fever, had body aches, and even hallucinated at night. She wasn't allowed to come near me or Jett and was so jealous to watch Tucker hold and smooch Jett. Poor girl, I really felt bad for her!

The boys each got their turns with the boy.

He got a new outfit and we thought he looked quite funny, cozy but funny.

Precious.

And yes, his arms eventually found their way out.

Jett, Day 1

2011-01-24T13:36:00.000-08:00

Jett was by far the easiest delivery I've had. Started the poticin at 7:30, broke my water at 11:45, and 3 pushes later out he came at 1:13 pm on January 3rd. He screamed and screamed and all I could think about was how beautiful that sound was. Jersey Girl never cried, she was immediately intabated but Jett sure had some lungs. It was so relieving to hear him cry. One of the best sounds I've ever heard. He weighed in at a hefty 8 lbs. 8 oz, we like our boys big! He was perfect and mine!

As he quit screaming and the nurses were wiping him off he started to grunt. They stood there watching him talking quietly. I've learned to not trust quiet conversations between drs and nurses. They decided to call in a respiratory therapist. After he examined and watched Jett he determined he needed to be taken to the NICU and now. Grunting is a sign of respiratory distress. They asked if I'd like to hold him first. Stupid, stupid question. They wrapped him like a burrito and handed him to me and then stood there and waited for me to finish so they could take him. As if I'd ever be finished. After a very short 30 seconds they decided I'd had him long enough and took him.

To say I was angry is an understatement, I was FURIOUS! This was not what I had envisioned the last 39 weeks and 1 day. I hadn't had time to count his fingers and toes. I hadn't decided who he looked like. I hadn't inspected every inch of his chubby body or smooched his cheeks. He hadn't squeezed my finger AND THEY WERE TAKING HIM FROM ME! It felt like Jersey all over again.

When I finally got to go see him this is what I found. The nurse asked how I was doing and I barked at her how angry I was. Poor lady. Looking at the bright side, we knew everything they were doing to him, we could read his monitors and know what the numbers meant so although he was on CPAP we knew very well how bad it could be and fortunately wasn't.

This looks just like Jersey: NG tube, heart monitors, line in the hand, blood pressure cuff, pulse ox, pricked heels. Fortunately he recovered quickly and was released from the NICU after 5 hours. It was 5 hours to long for me!

This is his first diaper change. Thanks hon for doing that!

The blondies were SO excited to meet their brother. They showered, put on clean clothes, and did their hair so they could make a good first impression.

Tucker LOVED looking at him and rubbing his head. At first he didn't want to hold him but when it was time for him and Tatum to leave he decided, in a last ditch effort to delay his departure, he really wanted to hold Jett. It was precious watching the two of them. Tucker kept saying how soft Jett was. He finally felt like the big brother he's been missing out on being. Here's our boys, so very handsome!

Tatum was absolutely smitten from the very beginning and couldn't get her turn to hold him fast enough. She spoke soft and gentle to him, rubbed his head, smooched his cheeks, and stared and stared. I loved it!

This one was to cute to not post. Tuck loves his Daddy!

Here we are, the family picture. Gotta love how you look in the hospital after being pumped full of fluid and just giving birth. It felt like Heaven to finally have him in our arms, there are hardly words. He's so precious and everything we've been waiting for.

He's Here!!!

2011-01-05T15:13:00.000-08:00

We welcomed Jett Christopher Anderson on Monday, January 3rd. He was born at 1:13 pm and was 8 lbs and 8 oz. Mom and Baby are both home and doing well.

Happy Birthday Heidi!

2010-12-06T07:12:00.000-08:00

This is just a quick note to wish my beautiful wife a Happy Birthday. I hope you have a wonderful day today. I'm so lucky to have a wife like you. YOU ARE THE BEST!!!

Welcome to the THIRTIES.

I love you!!!

Chris

My Buddy

2010-09-28T10:59:00.000-07:00

I confess, I've been cursing the Provo school district ever since I found out they don't offer all day kindergarten. Tuck is a hard little dude; I sometimes consider him 2 kids wrapped in one.

He too was disappointed that he couldn't go all day, like his sister. I'll admit, so was I.

But now that he's gone every morning from 8:30-11:20 I've found that I have nothing to do with myself. No errands to run. No shopping to do. No friends to play with. Nothing to sew. There's only so much to clean. I'd been reading one book after another but I felt the need to be productive. And to think of an entire day to fill...I try not to.

And then I realized half day kindergarten isn't a curse but a blessing!! I SO look forward to 11:10 when I leave to go get my buddy! That's what Tuck and I are, buddies.

We do homework, eat lunch together, bake together, play games, go on bike rides, go on cheap dates to Costco for a hot dog, snuggle on the couch, read, laugh, work on his climbing tree, eat junk food, go to the library. I'm so glad I have him. Really, I'd be lost without him.

So Provo school district, my most sincere apologies. Turns out I'm the one with the malfunction.

Gone Fishin'

2010-09-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

Look at that scenery! Tuck was lucky enough to go fishin' with his Grandpa over the summer. Oh was he in Heaven. He had an amazing time and quickly became obsessed with fishing. I think these pictures say more than words. It meant a lot to Tuck to spend precious one on one time with his Grandpa. I'm glad I spied on their date to get these priceless photos.

Although Tucker didn't personally catch a fish he felt quite triumphant when Grandpa did.

They brought the fish home and cooked it. Tuck was thrilled to eat his very own fish that HE caught, well... that Gramps caught.

4th of July

2010-09-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely and much cooler 4th of July this year. Who knew Provo was SO into this holiday. It ended up being a 4 day celebration. We BBQ'd with the Andersons in Sundance, went to the Provo parade, and lit fireworks- because that's legal here. Of course the blondies were dressed head to toe in red white and blue. I made Tatum's skirt, isn't it cute. And yes, it twirls rather well!

Tuck was deliciously handsome and being the stinker that he is would only allow 2 pictures to be taken. I wanted to smooch him ALL day!

I love, love this picture!! It's rare to get a picture they both look great in. Aren't they precious!!!

Y Mountain

2010-09-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

Back in July our friends the Skidmores were in town and we thought it'd be fun to hike Y Mountain together. It was a lovely morning...wish I could say the same about the hike. Thought I was going to die. While it's a relatively short hike it's straight up and seems never ending.

Tucker was prepared with his cleats, he insisted on wearing them. Even with them his sissy side took over and he whined and cried so Chris carried him on his back for more than half of the hike. Chris said is was a great workout!!

Tatum was an animal. She ran the majority of the way and was mighty proud of herself. Quite impressive! I was pretty sure I was going to die right there on the mountain and then she runs it. She woke up the next day and said she slept on her bunz wrong because they really hurt. We had a good laugh about that. I explained that they were sore from running straight up. :)

Because Tucker worked so hard he was starving.

Us and the Skidmores.

The view from the top was lovely, pretty sure I'll never see it again.

My Plans

2010-09-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

Plan B
* Raise healthy, well balanced children
* Run a marathon...some day
* Send my boys off on missions
* Watch my children be married in the temple
* Go on a mission with my hubby
* Own my home free and clear
* Go back to school and get a degree
* Excel at sewing
* Travel the world
* Have a years supply of food
* Raise children who value education and graduate college
* Live to experience the joy of being a grandparent
* Watch my savings account grow
* Grow old and wrinkly with my hubby
* Die of ripe, old age

Plan A

* Do whatever the Lord has planned for me.

A Melt Down

2010-09-18T16:49:00.001-07:00

So there I was at a routine dr.'s appointment, everything still looking and sounding great, when the dr. asks, "Is there anything you're concerned about?" Oh Yes, I said and went on to explain that I had my first 2 babies 10 days early and with my due date being January 15th I'm extremely worried that again I'll go into labor 10 days early and have this baby on January 5th, which is the day Jersey died. I asked again to be induced before the 5th to prevent them from sharing this anniversary.

He kindly told me, again, that they don't induce before 39 weeks.

My chin started quivering, my eyes started watering, I could feel my face begin to redden as I shook my head like I understood, which I do, completely. Then deep from my toes the sobs started. I sat there sobbing, uncontrollably; the harder I tried to get a grip the harder I cried. Between my pathetic sobbing I asked him to please change my due date so we could induce as baby is measuring 8 days bigger.

He said no, it wouldn't be right.

And then I begged, begged him to take pity on me, that I wouldn't persist if it was any date other than THAT date. For the record, it's really hard to make a convincing point when you can hardly speak and when you're trying to control yourself. I begged him to not let them share.

He said he was on my side, he really was. BUT they have to do what's best for baby.

Sobbing, still, I asked him to please make an exception that they can't share THAT date. That surely he understands.

He said he did that he really wanted to help. He said every week all the doctors in the practice sit down and discuss their patients and that he'd discuss my case to see if they could come up with something. He said my mental health is also important.

Maybe I was looking mental to him. Maybe my tears were making a bigger statement than my pleading.

Really, what else is there to come up with other than inducing me!! I feel like I have a legitimate concern, like they shouldn't even be fighting me on this. I know if I was at home with the amazing Dr. Huish he'd do anything for me including inducing. I feel like I've plead my case with very valid points, it's not like I'm asking to be delivered because I'm tired of being pregnant. I feel like my hands are tied and I'm at their mercy. A friend suggested petitioning to the hospital for an exception. I guess desperate times call for desperate measures and so I'll be writing a letter. Hopefully I won't sound to mental... or maybe I want to!

Sneaky!

2010-09-14T22:34:00.000-07:00

But not really! Being that I'm the Grandma-Nonnie...I have taken a personal liberty and without permission have tiptoed in the back door to post pics of Tatum and Tucker...in what might have been their first day of school attire and appearance. On a lovely morning in August, feeling like Mrs. Claus herself...I opened up my luggage, and the blondies got to try on some new school stuff and sport their new backpacks. (Tatum's came with a most lovely Tinkerbell glitter sash that velcroed across the front. Heidi, upon seeing it, told me to hide it and get rid of it-she was worried that Tatum would instantly love it and need it to adorn her school fashions every day! Oh I hid it....showed it to Tatum later and told her it was special and to save it for the first day of school. She pulled it out the night of Meet your Teacher....hehehehe) Tuck was immediately thrilled with his own pair of scissors!

I do NOT have pics of the lovely glitter sash...a fierce regret! But...I do have the above pics of my beautiful blondies.

Shhhhhhhhh......Shaunna

It's Been a While

2010-09-14T09:32:00.001-07:00

It's been a while, forgive me. My camera is non-functioning and I believe in posts with pictures so because I don't have any to share I haven't blogged. Oh well. The update:

School FINALLY started. Tatum started on August 24th in the first grade and is loving it. She's a smartie and we hope this year will be a challenging one for her. She did great on her first day, darling as usual. She loves her teacher, Mrs. Stewart, and is making new friends in her class...although she's missing her old friends and wishes she was at home with them. Tucker started September 7th in Kindergarten and was a rock star! Oh was he handsome and SO excited! He didn't want me to take him to his class but because I am a mean mom I did anyways. I couldn't not get pictures of him at his desk on his first day, they're a must! When I picked him up he said his first day was 'great' and his teacher 'is really nice'. His enthusiasm has continued and he's happy to get up in the morning and get ready for school...thankfully. I've anticipated attitude in the morning but have yet to get anything but cooperation and excitement. I love it!

We went to the perinatologist Sept. 3 and she said Baby Andy looks 'amazing' and that we 'have a great one', as in a healthy baby! Amazing!! She said he's gonna be BIG, definitely a football player. She said we don't need to see her again and we aren't sad about that! So it seems we have big boy babies and 'normal' girl babies. Tuck was 9 lbs while Tatum was 7lbs 5 oz. Jersey Girl doesn't really count, she was 5 lbs 9oz but 4 weeks early. Anyways, we're absolutely thrilled we've gotten nothing but happy, healthy news and feel like we have so many things to be grateful for. We go to cardiology October 12th and that will be our last specialist we'll see. Feeling confident this will be a very different experience.

But still...missing my girlie.

We're enjoying the gorgeous weather and can hardly believe Utah calls this their summer. The leaves have started changing. I've never seen Fall leaves and am looking forward to the next couple of weeks and they completely change. The temperature is dropping and every day is a lovely one!

We've LOVED the visits from our family. Nonnie, Auntie Natalie, Auntie Brooke, and Grandpa have all been here the last month, it makes us miss home but we LOVE visitors. So please, come and visit!

Chris started his second semester Sept. 7th and claims it's gonna be a hard one. He'll do great, like he did last semester, and hopefully with the holidays it will soon be over.

All is well.

The Details

2010-08-08T18:54:00.000-07:00

I'm 16 weeks and 1 day pregnant which puts my due date at January 15, 2011. Next year. Feels like forever but if the next 24 weeks can go as fast as these last 16 I won't complain! Our blondie's birthdays are: October, November, January, and January making spring time our mating season. Nice. :)

We're excited, although we're quite guarded with our excitement. Even the blondies didn't jump up and down when we shared our news. Tatum asked, " How do we know this one won't die?" I tried reassuring her but realized we don't know. I assured her the doctors would look really close at everything, especially the heart. When I compare their reaction to finding out about Jersey compared to this one it's so mild. They did smile big and they are excited but some how it feels different. We affectionately call the baby, Baby Andy short for Anderson. I think it's cute and so much better than 'It' or 'the baby'.

I hesitate and almost refuse to look for diaper bags or anything baby. I remember doing that with Jersey and ended up never needing anything. I promised Tucker Jersey would be at his 4th birthday party...I lied. Baby Andy is due 18 days before his 6th birthday, I don't dare make any promises. I don't even want to think about buying diapers or wipes, last time I returned almost $100 worth. I wonder at what point I'll be able to feel the assurance this one is healthy, who knows, maybe I won't, maybe it isn't.

I had my first appointment last week. The thought of an upcoming appointment made me feel really anxious. The thought of a waiting room, having to review Jersey's history, the almost expectant feeling of bad news just about made me sick. I dreaded my appointment. Surprisingly I got through it with zero tears and no anxiety attack. I can't seem to remember that the anticipation is worse than the upcoming event.

My doctor was quite nice, I think he and I will get along. He easily promised an echo and a level 2 ultrasound and reassured me that if anything concerning was seen during my 18 week ultrasound we would immediately be advised. He almost calmed my concerns, nothing could completely calm me. My brain is programmed for and my body anticipates bad news. I have an ultrasound on the 17th of this month. Feeling anxious so I don't think about it. I've decided to bring the blondies to that appointment, Tatum is thrilled! Hoping we don't jinx any good news! I also have a cardiology appointment on September 3rd, definitely won't think about that one.

All in all feeling quite well and excited to have a baby in my arms!

The Great Debate

2010-07-20T21:44:00.000-07:00

What a debate it's been!

It's one of those issues there's simply no compromising,

One caves or the other.

There's no meeting half way.

There's no common ground.

It's been hard when we both feel strongly about our points.

Mine is right, of course,

but somehow he feels his is right,

or at least safe if nothing else.

One of us gave in.

He/She didn't necessarily give the thumbs up

but passively let things happen.

And eventually...

nature takes its course.

So,

without further adieu,

we are thrilled

and anxious

to welcome baby #4.

We're Here

2010-07-18T12:05:00.000-07:00

We're here and have been for almost a month. Safe and sound and quite settled. We're enjoying our 'new' home and are trying to get into a routine. The blondies both like their new rooms and LOVE the upstairs loft which is nothing but their play room. Their back yard rocks! Lots of greenery, an apple and apricot tree, a rope swing, swing set, and the trampoline and teeter totter we brought. It's so green, like a jungle, we're loving all the color. It even has a rose bush with PINK roses, so fitting. Our house has an older charm to it, I'm quite enjoying the accents only an older home would have. We're learning about basements and no air conditioning. We're absolutely loving the weather, it's amazing it's the middle of July and we've hardly broken a sweat! And the mountains!! SO majestic and so close!

We were lucky enough to have family here for the first 2 and a half weeks! It was fun, more like a vacation than Utahr life. We also had our first guests, the Halterman's, their visit was much too short and we had a great time. We also enjoyed see our good friends the Skidmores, Woods, and Rohners.

We've explored our new neighborhood, hiked a couple different mountains including the Y which, by the way, just about killed me!, visited our friends in Ogden and with them experienced Lagoon (a theme park), enjoyed the beauty of 2 waterfalls both from the bottom, sun bathed at a water park, shivered on cold nights, and have hardly broken a sweat. We've eaten at new yummy restaurants but have yet to discover an ice cream place quite as delicious as Nielsen's Frozen Custard.

We're missing our friends, house, family, and ward. Our ward is quite different. It's small and quiet as opposed to huge and busy. Tatum only has 5 kids in her class instead of 20. There was extra space in the primary room and the entire primary could fit in the same room. We've missed the crowded halls and craziness between classes. We miss the familiar faces and definitely the bread! Oh the bread! I'm sure we'll enjoy our ward, it just takes time.

I have loads of pictures but my computer has a virus so I'll have to post them later. Over all we're doing well and are excited to finally be here together!

It's Not Good Bye

2010-06-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

It's not, it's not good bye, but more like see you later. It would hurt too much to say good bye to a home, friends, neighbors, and ward who have treated us with so much love and tenderness. They are more than friends, neighbors. More like family. We've been through a lot together. We simply can not replace our friendships. We'll make new friends but we won't be replacing. Impossible.

We hate to leave but are excited for our new adventure. It'll be amazing...at least we're hoping. And if it's not we'll be back in 2 short years. We're glad it's Utah because being the Mormons many of us we are it seems many have connections to Utah meaning we'll hopefully get phone calls to plan visits and spend the nights. And for those of you who aren't and don't have connections, we're your new connection and will be hoping and crossing our fingers for a visit.

In keeping our farewell brief because there's just too much to say...I'll leave it at see you later.

Tatum's Dance Recital

2010-06-06T21:55:00.000-07:00

The Little Miss had her dance recital and was SO excited and was SO cute!

Tatum with her friends. Tatum and Lauren. Lilly, Grave, Lauren, Tatum, and Kate. Cutest little dancers I've ever seen!

Pre-show photo shoot!

My nerds waiting for the show to begin!

Outfits one and two.

On stage.

He's All Graduated!

2010-05-26T13:10:00.000-07:00

Tuck graduated from preschool and what a happy boy he is! The morning started off rocky with him declaring he wasn't going to his graduation. He HAD to be there, he had a very important role of leading the class in counting by 5's and 10's. When I told him he couldn't go to Kindergarten if he didn't graduate preschool and that he'd have to do preschool again next year he changed his mind.

Aren't these graduates absolutely darling! They started with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by Tucker leading them in their counting. The video is at the bottom.

Next they sang 3 songs with much gusto.

All the graduates listening to Ms. Angie just before watching their video.
Here's the big graduate receiving his diploma, a hug, and his memory box from Ms. Teresa.

Couldn't pass up a picture with my handsome boy! And Grandma even came for the celebration!

Here's Tucker with some of his favorites: Lilee, Brock, and Austin.
His two favorite teachers: Ms. Angie and Ms. Teresa. He's such a handsome boy and loved being in the spotlight!

Tucker leading the class in counting by 5's and 10's.

Disneyland Take 3

2010-05-26T12:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, we went again to Disneyland this time with my parents and sister Natalie in tow. We had a grand 'ol time!

Natalie and I shared a seat on the Matterhorn and laughed and laughed at how cozy the seat was.

The end of the first day was a hard one for Tuck. He was winding down from a melt down and this is how he rode the tram. He didn't want anybody looking at him.

There's somethin about a dude that Tuck gets along with. He wanted only to be with Pops, no one else!

The blondies enjoyed watching Nonnie and Natalie ride Screamin' California. Man that's a fast ride!

On the last day the blondies got to pick a prize from Nonnie and Pops. Tatum chose this hat and felt like quite the princess.

Tuck chose an underwater Spiderman.

I would not want to be on the recieving end of Tuck's stink eye!

Happy Anniversary!!!

2010-05-24T06:49:00.000-07:00

Today Heidi and I have been married for 8 years. I just want to let everyone know that Heidi is the best wife, friend, mother and anything else you can imagine. I love her so very much and am lucky to have her!!!

Love you Heidi!!!

Spring T-ball

2010-05-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

Tuck participated in spring t-ball and couldn't wait to get started. He played so much better this season and actually seemed to 'get it' a lot more than last season. There were no headstands or sitting breaks in the field. He wasn't as chatty with the other team while he was on base. He was all business and he took it very seriously!

Funny story. Tuck was on first base and we were sitting closer to home plate. Tuck yells rather loud while pointing to a man obviously on steroids, "Hey Dad, that guy's stronger than you!" Everybody heard and we all died laughing. He's super observant!

At the end of his season his coach had a party at Peter Piper Pizza, or Peter Pider Pizza as the blondies call it. He was SO thrilled to get his very own trophy with his name on it. He said it's the shortest trophy he has...it's the only trophy he has. It was fun watching him learn, hit the ball, and slide into home plate even though he didn't need to!

Muffins With Mom

2010-05-17T20:07:00.001-07:00

Tatum's class did Muffins With Mom, and ONLY moms. No brothers, no pets, and definitely no dads! Upon my arrival Tatum gave me a crown that said Queen Mom as well as a pink flower. She had spent all week on a drawing of me as well as a Mom's Fact List. SO CUTE! She was SO excited to show me all the things she worked so hard on.

The muffins, grapes, and punch were delicious! I loved spending time just with her. She's my girly!

She even sang 3 songs to me. One was cute, the other funny, and the last sweet...and I may or may not have had watery eyes.

Mommy Facts
by: Tatum
April 27, 2010

How old is she? 26
How tall is she? 5ft. 10 in
How much does she weigh? 135 lbs.
What color is her hair? brown and blond
What's her favorite drink and snack? water and crackers (news to me!)
What does she cook? soup
What's her favorite TV show: commercials
What's her favorite thing to do with you? play with me
What does she like to do for fun? swim
What does she do during the day? works at home
What's the one thing she says to you most often? I love you!

Tuck's Eye Mask

2010-05-11T21:36:00.000-07:00

This is Tucker every night, sporting the eye mask.

I like how it matches these jammies.

He says without it he has night mares.

He's been known to stay up until 10 because he can't shut his eyes without it.

We think it's funny that he has at least 4 different eye masks.

I need to make him one to match his new quilt.

I find it ironic it says nice!

San Tan Flat

2010-05-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

In the name of quality family time we decided to mix things up a bit and try a new restaurant. I'm pretty sure we haven't had so much fun in quite a while!

Enjoying Daddy time before he moves to Utah!

Being silly while waiting for our burger and fries.

Not only do we get to eat but we get to make a fire and then leave smelling like the fire!

Tucker thought the fire was the best thing ever! He was happy to just sit and bake.

Still waiting for our food.

Ahhh.

After we ate dinner we made smores! We brought all the fixings!

Tucker thought he died and went to Heaven!

Enjoying!

There was even a live band! Tatum and Chris slow danced while Tuck shook his booty to the faster songs. He bounced his hip to the left and tapped his right foot. We had a marvelous time. The blondies are begging to go back. I think we'll become regulars!

Worst Stub Ever!

2010-05-01T19:06:00.000-07:00

The Worst Stub EVER!

Bruised, bleeding, and ozzing...he's not a happy boy!

The Blue Dot

2010-04-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

One of the two blondies has recently been having a hard time telling the truth. Sometimes these lies are so believable and said so convincingly I believe them. Other times the story is so bizarre it's quite obvious it's a lie.

Well, one day I was scolding said blondie and they absolutely insisted they didn't do it. I knew other wise. It just so happens in our house when you tell a lie a blue dot shows up on your forehead. I saw the blue dot. I told the blondie what I saw and what it meant. They immediately put their hand over their forehead. The dot moved to their hand. They ran to the mirror to see it. Only mommies and daddies see it. They were busted and they knew it. They fessed up. They apologized. We moved on.

Now anytime this particular blondie is having difficulty telling the truth they ask if I can see the dot. I can. They smile and quit pulling their shenanigan. It's worked quite well. I wish the blue dot would have been invented much sooner. It produces results. It keeps them honest. It's keeps me happy. I wonder how long before they catch on....

The Easter Photo Shoot

2010-04-22T19:03:00.000-07:00

We always have to have an Easter photo shoot! We were one big happy matchy family and nobody even whined! Tucker was in rare form and loved the camera.

How handsome is he!! He's such a stud!

How handsome are my boys... or the twins they look so much alike!

He may not always agree but he really does loves me! He's my buddy, my favorite snuggler!

Ahhhhh! Matchy matchy! Not a bad picture by Tucker the photographer.

Tucker and I being silly while we waited for Tatum to finish up her melt down.

My blondies, aren't they darling! And so matchy!

It's not a dress unless it twirls!

The princess.

Tucker's Brush With The Law

2010-04-19T11:12:00.001-07:00

A Story

It was the day before Easter so Tatum, Tucker and I went to Fry's to get some flowers to bring to Jersey Girl Easter morning. We walked the looooong stretch to the flowers and along the way Tuck asked if he could have some candy. I told him no that we were there for flowers and nothing else. They picked the perfect roses, fully of color and fragrance.

We'd loaded ourselves in the car and are driving off when I heard a wrapper being opened. I looked back and Tucker was opening some candy. I asked him where he got it and he pointed to the floor of the car and said it was right there. I asked him again and he shrugged his shoulders. And then I realized where he got it. He stole it. My heart sank, I knew this would happen sooner or later. I asked him if he stole it and by the expression on his face I knew that he had. He knew it was wrong. We were still in the parking lot of the store so we parked and got out. Well, Tatum and I got out, Tuck refused. He would not get out. Wanting to teach him well and good for hopefully the first and last time I told him if he wouldn't get out I'd have to call the police. That got him moving!

We walked into the store and I explained to the greeter that my son had just stolen this candy and could we please talk to a manager that will scare Tucker a bit. He found one and she was good! She bent down to his level and told him her name. She asked his but he wouldn't speak. She asked him if he stole the candy. Again he wouldn't speak. I told Tucker that if we wouldn't speak to the nice lady she'd have to call the police and he'd have to talk to them. He started talking. She explained that stealing is dishonest and wrong and if he would promise not to do it again she would forgive him. He nodded his head and told her sorry. It ended with a high five and we left.

I hated going back in there, I hated feeling his elevated heart beat, I hated watching him squirm but it's a lesson he needed to learn. We didn't talk about it any more. I know he was forgiven and as a parent I also had to forgive. I hope he remembers this experience and learns from it. I won't be as nice the second time. Do you think they really would call the police on a 5 year old for swiping candy? THAT would be a story.

Desert Picnic

2010-04-18T09:34:00.000-07:00

Growing up we often did picnics in the desert. For our family we LOVED these picnics, they are no small business. We find a spot out in the desert with a field, takes some searching but recently we've found the perfect spot we'll hopefully keep for a while. My Gramps, who is one tough dude, made a mean meal of fried chicken, biscuits, potatoes, and pineapple upside down cake in DUTCH OVENS!! The meal was absolutely to die for, and of course we ate way to much!

Tatum looking pink and cute. And little miss thang, Leah, also made an appearance.

As per our picnic tradition we played soft ball. Tuck was thrilled! He hit well until...

He hit a fowl ball that hit him in the head. He was very upset about the whole thing and was then finished playing ball for the rest of the afternoon. Later that night I asked him if he had a fun time in the desert. He, with much anger in his voice, said no he did not! That nobody said sorry for hitting him in the head! I burst out laughing while trying to explain that HE hit himself in the head so HE needs to say sorry. He didn't get it, he's a grudge holder.

This year we mixed up the activities a little and included red rover. It was fun, it might become another desert picnic tradition. Those are some of my cute cousins, with the exception of my Auntie Kim in the gray shirt.

It's always so exciting when you get your name called! Time to show off your skills and strategery. Tuck thought he was pretty cool!

Even Auntie Kim was excited! Look at her face, she's determined!!

Fun was had by all! It was a lovely spring afternoon!

Spring Break = Trampoline With Water

2010-04-15T21:08:00.000-07:00

So I'm a little behind...sue me. :) The day spring break began Tatum came home from school and both her and Tuck decided it was time to break out the swimsuits and get wet! They had a marvelous time and while the water was still a tad cold they didn't seem to notice.

Tucker is SUCH a boy!

Tuck's Belt

2010-04-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

This kid is rather hilarious...when he's not being a hand full. He LOVES to attach things to his belt. Makes him feel cool. Important. Grown up. On this particular day he had some very important paper folded to keep it's contents a secret, his 'real' walky talky, his watch (it was broken but don't tell him) and his cell. He's one cool dude. He wore it like that ALL day and when he walked he had a strut.

Another Bead Party!

2010-03-20T13:10:00.000-07:00

It's a Bead Party and You're Invited!
(that includes all you blog stalkers!)

WHO: You and a friend...or 2....or 3...

WHERE: My house (call or e-mail for directions)
heidi.anderson@cox.net

WHEN: March 23rd, from 7-LATE!!

Come early and stay late, the fiesta will be ALL night!
All you need to bring is your wallet, the rest will be supplied. Just think...BEADS GALORE! Lots of BLING and GIRLY CHATTING!

Shop for those Easter outfits and bring them along to match your bling to!
Make something for yourself, your princess, or as a gift!

Bring a friend and get 10% off!

Check out this blog to get an idea of what you can make or to get the creative juices flowin'!
www.beaddivas.blogspot.com

Hope you can make it!

Disneyland, Trip #3

2010-03-15T20:46:00.000-07:00

We were lucky enough to go to Disneyland with Auntie Aimee and Uncle Brandon, or as Tucker called him ALL weekend, Uncle Brandi! Aimee and I thought Tucker was hilarious calling Brandon Brandi, not so sure he felt the same but he was a good sport! Chris decided to sit this one out, party pooper! We had a marvelous weekend filled with smiles, fun, and laughter!

First ride is always Peter Pan, gotta get there while the line is short! It's one of our favorites, thanks Brandi for breaking your tradition and following ours!

It's so rare for Tucker to cooperate for a photo so if you find yourself thinking I have a favorite child you're wrong, one listens and one doesn't! I thought this photo of Tuck was cute, I love that goofy smile! And Tatum is cute as ever, she's my princess!

Brandon was such a champ with Tucker, tuck loves Uncle Brandi and insisted Brandon be the one to sit by, stand by, ride with, and push him. I guess the boys stick together!

Tater saw Jessi and HAD to get a picture with her. The Toy Story Ride at California Adventures is on our Top 3 list.

A is for Anderson.

Look who Tatum met! And how fabulous she be wearing the SAME shirt Cinderella stars in!

WOW! All 3 of us smiling! It's gonna be a great day, and it was!

It should be considered a sin to go to Disneyland and not scarf at least one churro!

The sun was super bright okay!?!?!? Autopia is fun ONLY because 1. the blondies think they are really driving 2. they laugh hysterically which in turn makes me laugh and 3. when the workers aren't looking you can ram the car in front of you!

Aimee and I about died laughing at Brandon and his turkey leg! He salivated every time we passed a stand all weekend and finally caved the last few hours left and bought one. Between him and Tuck there wasn't much left!

Running Club

2010-03-12T20:56:00.000-08:00

At Tatum's school there such thing as Running Club. Two days a week after school the members of this club see how many laps they can run. Tatum decided she wanted to join and of course, I encouraged her. Well, come November she was DONE! She no longer found it exciting and dint' care that some of her best little friends ran with her. I was a mean mom and told her she committed and had to stick with it until after Christmas. Well, her teacher convinced her to keep going because the races were coming up and she would really like them. Tater chose to continue and her teacher was right, she LOVED the races!

The evening before her first race we talked about how if she does her very best she will always win. Being a kindergartner there was absolutely no way she'd win the race. Chris pipes that there are winners and losers and if you don't Cross the finish line first you're a loser. Nice. I wish I had lazer eyes, I would have zapped him! She went to bed excited for the next day!

It was SO fun watching her run. Tucker and I screamed her name and jumped up and down like fools. I liked how as she approached us she tried not to smile or make eye contact. She's SO cute!

Here she is nearing the finish line. The entire coarse is 1.5 miles, a far run for little leggies!
In the end all the pain, sweat, and tears were worth that green ribbon! Oh was she proud of that ribbon! She totted it around every where she went! And just because she was running a race didn't mean she didn't need her bows, bracelet, and necklace on!

I was proud of her for sticking it out the entire season!

Good bye Rose, Hello Lula

2010-03-10T20:29:00.000-08:00

For Christmas Santa brought Rose, our hamster. The blondies instantly fell in love and Tucker decided her name should be Rose, and so it was. Rose was a good addition to the fam-damily. Though we didn't appreciate when she nibbled on our fingers she didn't seem to mind being held and the blondies spent many an hour playing with her. She only escaped once and Chris, of all people, found her and had to capture her. Back up, Chris is AFRAID of this little fur ball. He didn't like Rose and didn't approve of Santa bringing her so for him to be the one to capture her was a big deal! Quite comical actually! One morning I held Rosy, that's what we affectionately called her, and noticed she was bigger. I thought she might be pregnant and ran to the computer to research, she wasn't. We soon noticed other maladies and sweet Rose was obviously sick. As the days went on she became worse and worse. It was quite clear Rose would soon die...but she wouldn't die. I tried giving her an enormous dose of morphine but the stubborn thing wouldn't take ANY of it. She needed to be put out of her misery and soon!

Chris, being the loving guy he is-insert a chuckle, matter of factly said he'd "take care of her". So he got all pumped up, made sure his BB gun worked AND that the blondies were fast asleep, but in the end he just couldn't do it. He called a buddy in our ward and he agreed to do the dirty work. And that was the end of Rose.

The blondies knew she was sick. We talked about her at dinner that evening and I assured them she was so sick that tonight she would die. They didn't know what Rose's fate was. I broke the news to them the next morning over breakfast. Crappy way to start the day. Tatum quickly whipped up a few tears. She asked while sobbing, "Tell me you didn't flush her in the toilet!". Seriously Tatum? Thankfully we didn't. I assured her she was buried in a lovely box. Then she asked, "Will she get a headstone?". Ugggh, I hate that they know all about headstones. Tucker went and sat on the couch and angrily yelled at me, " Why did you tell me that!?!?!". He wouldn't let me hug or console him. They soon dried their eyes and before breakfast was over Tatum wanted to know if we could get another. So....

Meet Lula. They picked her out all themselves. The only requirement was that she not have red eyes; red eyes are scary! She's a blondie, just like T&T, they liked that. She has yet to let us really hold her, she's flinchy and squirmy. T&T are quite persistent, eventually Lula will see it their way!

It's Official!

2010-02-10T10:18:00.001-08:00

Yes, the rumors are true.

We are moving to Utah so Chris can go to Physical Therapy (PT) school.

His school is in Provo so we hope to live in either Orem or Springville.

Having never lived there we'll have to base our decision on their elementary schools.

I admit, I'm a school snob and want only the best for my blondies!

School starts May 10th, so soon!

Chris will be moving all by his lonesome as Tater's school doesn't end until June 2nd.

A whole month as a bachelor and a whole month as a single mom!

I'm not afraid of my blondies!

It's a two and a half year program, begins in May 2010 and ends in December 2012.

We'll be back in AZ before we know it!

T&T are excited, well...mostly.

When I broke the news to them Tuck says,

"What the hell?"

Lovely.

I don't think it's registered that they're leaving their family and friends.

They'll find out soon enough.

But we're excited.

A little nervous.

Looking forward to the gorgeous summers dreading the arctic winters!

It doesn't matter where we live...

As long as we're together!

Valentine's

2010-02-10T10:17:00.001-08:00

How cute are these!?!?! I LOVE how it looks like Tucker is really holding the sucker! SO cute! Tatum's finished product is coming soon!

Lemon Juice

2010-02-10T10:12:00.000-08:00

When life gives you lemons FIRST get your goggles and THEN make lemonade!

Jersey's Christmas

2010-02-10T09:57:00.001-08:00

For Christmas Santa and the Grandmas gave sweet Jersey flowers for her headstone. It's sad for me to go to the cemetery and have nothing adorning her little spot. I don't want people thinking we don't take care of our princess! I think they're prefect, girly...so fitting.

Little Friends

2010-02-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

These two are so cute together despite their age difference. Tatum is 6 and Lauren is 3. Lauren is the little sister Tatum doesn't get. I love how they're both in their frilly pink skirts and how Tatum is reading to Lauren. Tatum is always so attentive to Lauren, it kind of stings watching them. The way Tatum lightly puts her hand on Lauren's back guiding her and how she alters her voice at times while speaking to sweet Lauren. I'm thankful Tatum has her, I'm thankful for the small opportunity she gets to feel like a big sister!

Jakey's Blankies

2010-01-31T20:14:00.001-08:00

This is Jake, sweet angel Jake. His mommy, Liz, and I decided that Jake and Jersey are married in Heaven. Don't their names have a nice ring to them, Jake and Jersey? We certainly think so! Silly but we figured since they were bff's they might as well be hitched. Anyways, when Jakey died his family asked for donations for "Jakey's Blankies" and had a huge response. These aren't just any blankies, the material is AMAZING! I'm an adult and I want one of these blankets. The tiny patients these blankets were made for fell in love, so did the parents. They were such a hit the heart unit is in need of more. Please visit Jakey's blog if you are feeling generous, and even if you're not visit anyways! =) http://tylerelizabethdennison.blogspot.com/2010/01/jakeys-blankies-donations.html

Tucker's Birthday

2010-01-23T22:07:00.000-08:00

Tucker Sam turned 5! I can't believe he's already 5! Nonnie made this collage for him, he's so handsome and old looking.

I feel like a bad mom, pictures taken of his cake and his birthday party some how disappeared, I'm so sorry Tuck! For his cake he chose to have a green light saber across the whole front. It said his name in the Star Wars font, he loved it.
His birthday fell on a Saturday and when I asked him what he wanted for dinner, thinking I'd make him his very favorite he replied, "Red Robin, they have my favorite food." Can't argue with the birthday boy. Off to Red Robin we went with Nonnie and Papa. They sang to him and gave him his very own ice cream Sunday. While they sang they made him stand up on his seat and raise his hands in the air. He felt like a King! He's really into Star Wars right now and got a few Star Wars Lego kits, they really hit the spot. I also got an MP3 player and has been rocking out to music ever since. His most favorite thing he got were black cowboy boots. He's been begging for those since before Christmas. He loves them and shows them to anybody and everybody!

He's a hilarious little boy full of energy. He loves being outside and riding his bike. He loves to tuck in his shirts and show off his missing teeth. He can't wait to start kindergarten and wonders when Jersey will come alive again. He loves his hamster, Rose, and thinks there's nobody cooler than his Dad. He wonders why he can't swear or beat up his sister and is often my biggest helper. He's a tough little guy and so independent but such a snuggler who loves his mama. His sister is his best friend and hopes to one day be a baseball player. He's a very hands on kinda dude and how we love him!!!

Ethan's Run

2010-01-23T20:33:00.000-08:00

Ethan is one of Jersey's bets buds, they have a lot in common. Both are heart babies, both lived at St. Joe's, both were quite brave, and both their mom's names are Heidi (imagine that!) In Ethan's honor and to raise money for the heart unit at St. Joe's Ethan's mommy, Heidi, is doing Ethan's Run. Below is the link for information and the sign up. We'll be there, we simply would not miss it!

http://www.active.com/running/mesa-az/ethans-run-hope-for-heart-defects-2010

Mummys

2010-01-12T14:08:00.001-08:00

Tucker: Mom, are mummys people who have died?

Me: Yes.

Tucker: Is Jersey a mummy?

Me: No, she is an angel!

Dinseyland

2010-01-10T10:33:00.000-08:00

Jersey's Angel Day was January 5th, a day I've been anxious to have over. We decided that rather than staying home and re-living last year's time line that we so well remember we'd go to the happiest place on earth, Disneyland. We went with our dear friends the Ridgeways and had a marvelous time! We, of course, still thought of our princess but how can you mope while riding Splash Mountain??

T&T absolutely loved our hotel room. They were thrilled about the bunk beds, little table, their own TV, and their very own couch!

Loving their room!

This picture hit my funny bone. He looks like such an over grown doof! Chris and I laughed and laughed at him, he looks ridiculous in this stroller!

What is Disneyland without churros? We had our fare share!

The tea cups, as usual were a hit. I'm lame and get sick so Chris and Keisa were in charge of those!

My girly and I. I love that little princess!!

Tuck...being Tuck. He said he looked like a "rock star" wearing his glasses. He's hilarious!

Last year when we went to Disneyland Tatum said it was only okay. She said she didn't get to meet any of the princesses, I've felt bad ever since. This time I made sure we were first in line and she was SO excited to meet them. That is, until she was actually talking to them, then she became shy. I'm sad she's growing out of the princess phase, she was all about the princesses. It means she's getting older and I'm not quite ready for that.

See Tuck? We're bad parents, a little lazy. Walking to a bathroom was just too far. Yes, we're THAT family who encouraged him to be quick and quiet! Don't judge.

We agonized for the 3 days we were there whether or not to get season passes. Finally at 5 o'clock on the last day we caved and bought them. We're so excited. Anybody wanna go to Disneyland with us??

We had a killer time and loved spending time with our friends. Disneyland was the perfect distraction from our sadness. I hope to make it a tradition!

Shelves and a Clock

2010-01-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

This handsome fellow is Brandon, my brother in law. He's pretty new to the family but so far we like him. After Jersey died I was in dire need of a shelf to display my Jersey shrine, yes I have a shrine. He quickly came to my rescue with a cute shelf, JUST what I wanted! Since then he has spent many hours cutting, sanding, painting, distressing, many pieces I'm pretty sure I NEED! Below are just a couple. And yes, if you are wondering, he'll make you one, or two, or three, for a small fee of course.

I LOVE this shelf. Mine is a bit different, this one is grander and would look fabulous in Tatum's room!

And this clock, definitely fabulous! If you are feeling the NEED right about now feel free to e-mail the above dude with questions and maybe even an order! aimeelouanderson@hotmail.com

Hole in the Wall

2010-01-01T10:24:00.000-08:00

Today is my Mother dearest's birthday, she's turning 29! ;) We always celebrate by going to a movie and lunch but this year she decided on something different. We spent the day at a hole in the rock near the zoo. It was a lovely day, perfect for a picnic except...who invited the wind?

Ahhh, their buddies! Because it was mom's birthday Chris had to cooperate and smile during the picture.

The blondies had so much fun hiking up to the hole in the rock. They LOVED exploring the hole and all the climbing that came with it.

Tucker Sam enjoying the view.

Tatum enjoying the view.

Heidi enjoying the view. Chris was proud of his picture taking skills.

Tucker loved feeding the ducks with Auntie Kim. He fed them the entire box of Cheez Its!

Spend the Nighter

2009-12-29T10:11:00.000-08:00

Every year during Christmas break the blondies are invited to spend the night at Nonnie and Papa's where they are spoiled and get to sleep by the Christmas tree. This year was no different except they wanted to sleep in their bunk beds. Thanks Nonnie and Papa!

SkateLand

2009-12-27T10:11:00.000-08:00

The blondies had such a killer time ice skating we thought they would have an equally enjoyable time roller skating, after all they are about the same thing after all. Do you like how Chris' let is extended showing his fancy skates? Nice pose!

Oh boy were we wrong! It began happily but soon turned to whining! They did not appreciate the wheels on their roller skates. What the difference between slippery ice and rolling wheels? We went with our cute friends Sadie and Macie.

Tuck decided, after one lap around the rink he had had enough! Off came the skates and he spent the rest of the time pretending to play video games.

Chris was such a trooper, he has bigger muscles, and more patience than me so he was the lucky one who did most of the helping.

The general consensus was no roller skating and yes ice skating. After an hour we decided to bail. Atleast they tried it!

Christmas Day 2009

2009-12-25T22:00:00.000-08:00

This was one of my favorites. Nothing out of the ordinary, the usual family get togethers, Santa visits, yummy holiday goodies, that Christmas feeling...all were present but this year we are different. The memory of Jersey and our Christmas with her is still so fresh. All the acts of service, generosity, and sacrifice for our family are close to my memory as well. I am so grateful for the "normal" Christmas season we had this year, we REALLY enjoyed being together. My family is precious, how I love them. We have so many things to be grateful for and being together is just one of them.

The blondies were SO cute Christmas morning. I love the feeling of excitement! I love the squeals of delight and the twinkle in their eye. Surprisingly they slept until 7:30, I was even awake before them, wanting to sneak in their room and wake them up.

They both really wanted "real" walkie talkies, so they got them. They were super excited!

They both got "real" cameras and Tuck LOVED his marshmallow gun. Finally a "gun" that's totally harmless. He was pretty proud!

It's a rule of mine, and I suppose a tradition that we always get a new Christmas Day outfit. So here the blondies are sporting their new looks. And yes, if you are wondering, I made Tatum's skirt. And no, I didn't tell Tuck to pose, he did it on his own!

Aren't they cute!?!?! They're my favorite! Off to the grandparents!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T20:50:00.000-08:00

We began our Christmas evening at the temple to view the lovely Christmas lights. It was cold, or maybe we're sissies. It was nice viewing several nativities from all over the world.

Next we headed to Grandma and Grandpa's for food and fun. We baked pizza, listened to Christmas music, and ate junk food. Auntie Lindsey brought gingerbread cookies to decorate and eat. Tuck enjoyed himself, he's very detail oriented and was a pro at frosting. Where was Tatum?

Here, pouting...saying she looked ugly in her new jammies. She didn't, she looked darling and so snuggly. She must have sat there a good hour before she finally snapped out of it. Tuck soon complained of a stomach ache. Not surprising, he'd been stuffing his face full of cookies and junk since we walked in the door. He said it was a sugar stomach ache. He begged to leave which meant it really hurt.

Before they could go to bed they had business to attend to. First came the sprinkling of reindeer food. Glitter to attract the reindeer's attention and oats for them to smell and eat after they land. Sprinkle, sprinkle.

Tuck was in charge of Rudolph. He took his job very seriously and insisted the plate be left outside, he did not want a big reindeer booty in our house.
Tatum was in charge of Santa. She decided 5 cookies would do the job.

How cute are they in their new Christmas jammies! This little tree has turned into their tree where they hang their personal ornaments. They think it's pretty cool they have their very own Christmas tree! Off to bed, pretty sure we hear Santa's sleigh bells!

Christmas Eve Day

2009-12-24T20:40:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Day Chris and I took the blondies ice skating for the first time. That ice skating rink was FREEZING! and we were under dressed. Teeth chattering, red nosed, frozen fingered blondies had an amazing time! They never did get the hang of it, they spent most of the time clinging to the wall, but they loved it!

Here they are...clinging.

Dad has bigger muscles than me, they had more fun with him. They liked how he held them so they wouldn't fall. Surprisingly they didn't fall very much but when they did there were no tears and they got right back up. It's safe to say we'll go again.

After ice skating we blasted the heater and had a delicious lunch at In n Out, a fabulous way to end the afternoon!

Santa's Visit

2009-12-23T20:26:00.000-08:00

Every year we are lucky enough to have our very own, personal visit from the big man up North, that's right, Santa Claus! The blondies LOVE when he visits and find a million things to say to him. And you better believe Chris and I threaten to call him when they are being naughty. He's even on Chris's speed dial, we don't mess around!

Tuck scored and was first to sit on Santa's lap. He wanted: walkie talkies most of all. Notice how he is smiling extra big to show the hole in his smile.

After they sit on Santa's lap they get to pick two little gifts out of Santa's bag.

Tatum is always a little shy. She too wanted real walkie talkies. She had a difficult time choosing what prize she wanted out of his bag.

Our friends, the Ridgeways, were lucky enough to be over when Santa made his appearance. Here's the group: Tuck, Tatum, Kanyon, Emerson, and Ainsley...and Santa of course! It was fun to hear their excited talking and see the look of magic in their eyes. Thank you Santa, we love you!

The Fox Tooth has Left the Mouth!

2009-12-20T20:02:00.000-08:00

The last remaining fox tooth has left the mouth! Tucker bravely and fearlessly pulled it himself!

White Trash Snow

2009-12-19T20:28:00.000-08:00

So, Basha's parking lot, about 100 bags of ice, one big snow cone maker, and you've got a huge, slushy, muddy pile of hard packed "snow". If you could even call it snow. Chris and I stood there laughing at how white trashy we felt.

But at the end of the 10 minutes that we would allow ourselves to be seen there the blondies enjoyed themselves. And that's about as close to snow as we get here in these parts!

Boobie Trap

2009-12-19T09:38:00.000-08:00

We were watching Home Alone 3 last night and somebody asked what was happening.

Me: He's making a trap.
Tucker pips up: No, it's a boobie trap. You know mom, like you have boobies. A boobie trap.

Thanks for clearing that right up!

Tatum's Gingerbread Making

2009-12-17T20:15:00.000-08:00

For Tatum's class party the last day before winter break they made gingerbread houses, or graham cracker and milk carton houses. I was lucky enough to be in attendance and LOVED spending time with her. We laughed and chatted while we constructed.

Tatum in action.

She decided rather than wasting all the extra frosting she'd eat it by the spoonful!

Ta Dah! The finished product! She was practically salivating as we walked out of her class room, she couldn't wait to devour her hard work!

Two of Tatum's bff's, or bffe (best friends forever even until you die) as she'd say. Tyler, Cassie, and Tatum.

Tyler and Her Noggin

2009-12-17T20:05:00.000-08:00

One of Tatum's best little friends, Tyler Woods, fell at PE and hit her head resulting in a skull fracture. The poor dear spent the night in the hospital and was not allowed back at school for 5 days. Tatum was quite upset about this. All she talked about was Tyler, how bad she felt. She said she even cried she was so sad. Sweet thing! Tatum was aching to see her so I took Ella, Tatum, and Annalise to Walmart to get Tyler some jammies to lay around in and a movie to watch. Then we paid Tyler a visit!

It was so sweet watching the girls treat Tyler carefully and so special. The girls also brought Tyler her homework and the get well cards the class made her. They sat in a princess castle giggling and chatting while they went through the stack. I loved watching these girlies interact, they were excited, thoughtful, and loving. Tatum talked about Tyler for weeks and is grateful she is feeling and looking much better!

Missing Fox Tooth

2009-12-11T08:28:00.000-08:00

Tucker has a hole in his smile! His two bottom teeth have been wiggly for a while, he oddly named them his fox teeth. We have no idea why or where that came from but we laugh every time he says it. So, Tucker lost his fox tooth and has one more to go.

I picked him up from preschool yesterday and immediately noticed his hole. I got really excited but he had no idea what I was talking about. I told him he lost his tooth and he wouldn't believe me until he stuck his finger there and felt the hole. "THAT'S TOTALLY AWESOME!" he said! He was super excited after that and showed all this little buddies who were also in the car with us. His teacher was sweet enough to look around and even go through the trash to locate the missing fox tooth but she never found it. I'm sure it's in his belly.

We had to write a note to the Tooth Fairy explaining the situation. Here is what it read:

Dear Tooth Fairy,

I loosed a tooth but I lost it. Still give me money.

Love,

Tucker

He awoke to a Susan B. Anthony dollar and a pink kiss on his cheek. He was quite angry about the pink kiss and wanted to know if there were also sparkles, I didn't dare tell him there were! Next time he looses a tooth we'll write another note asking her not to smooch him.

It's a Happy Birthday

2009-12-06T09:25:00.000-08:00

It's true, today is my birthday and I'm getting old! As I laid in my warm bed enjoying the late morning hour my thoughts drifted to my last birthday.

Jersey had had her big surgery 3 days before and was so very critical. I didn't realize my birthday was even approaching until a couple days before. Not that birthdays as adults are anything fabulous but it's still your day. I spent the night the evening before so I could wake up to her, it hurt every time I looked at her. I needed to leave the hospital by 10:30 to make it home in time to shower. As I put our very junky car into reverse nothing happened. I tried again and again but it wouldn't budge. I remember sitting there and crying not knowing what to do. So I prayed and it went into gear. I cried some more.

When I got home our friends were there putting up our Christmas lights, I still appreciate that. Chris could hardly muster up a smile for me, and me for him. He gave me a half hug and mumbled something about getting me something and then loosing it, or maybe he put it in his drawer but would have to check. I can't blame him, it was such a bleak time. I felt the way he did. I can't seem to find words for the way I felt back then. Desperate, on the brink of a breakdown, anxious, hysterical in my mind...they don't seem to fully convey those days.

I sat pumping and my friend stopped by just to drop off something. She doesn't live close so to just drop something off was a sacrifice. She gave me a Willow Tree angel holding/hugging a heart and 3 boxes of Hot Tamales, my favorite. I kept the hot tamales by my night stand and every time I'd pump while I was home I'd eat them.

My friends were taking me to lunch. I had NOTHING to wear, nothing fit and I believe in looking good when it's your day. I stood in my closet and cried, my spanx held in only so much. :) We met at my neighbors house, I didn't want to be there. I didn't want to smile and chit-chat about meaningless things when my princess was teetering between life and death. I felt an enormous weight on my shoulders that was too heavy to produce a sincere smile. There were lots of hugs and sweet, heart felt gifts. I loved everything given to me that day but there was really only one thing I wanted. Looking back, I appreciate that lunch more today than I did while I ate it. They were rescuing me, rallying around me, showing me they really did love me. I must have been a downer, I must have seemed unappreciative, I hope in the moment they didn't see through me.

My mom watched the blondies all day that day. I was glad they were gone, I couldn't deal with everything that came with them. I remembering wanting them so near, wanting to be a "normal" family, wanting them to wake me with breakfast in bed and their home made cards.

Brooke cut and colored my hair that night. I planned on getting it done before Jersey came but she came so early and unexpected. I remember Brooke and I only talking about Jersey. She must have known I needed to talk and I'm glad she let me.

What a difference a year makes. If I would've been asked I never would have guessed MY girlie would die. I never would have guessed I could survive everything that came after. I never would have guessed I would be where I'm at, more grateful, more humbled, and more thankful for everything I have been blessed with. I'm grateful for the "normal" birthday I'm having. Chris has felt bad about my day last year and has more than made up for it this year. He's a trooper for putting up with me! :) So, happy birthday to me because this year it IS happy!

Toffee Making

2009-12-06T08:41:00.000-08:00

It was our annual toffee making night this evening. Totally fun and definitely delicious! I always look forward to this event. We always start full of smiles ready to cook ALL night!

We tag team each batch. It goes so much smoother and quicker. And when our arms are so tired we think they might fall off we switch stirring duty!

The smiles soon fade, we mean business when stirring!

Shredding chocolate for the topping.

By the end of the evening we're worn out and our arms hurt!

But it's worth it! Five batches of toffee and one batch of caramel.

T-Ball is Serious Business...

2009-12-04T08:48:00.000-08:00

At least that's how it begins. Tucker LOVED t-ball, LOVED it! And I loved that he loved it because I am a mean mom and would use it to threaten him into good behavior. :) Here he is at the beginning of his game full of smiles, ready to show the other team what the Tigers are all about!

Warming up is super important and can't be properly done unless Tucker displayed a rad face. I always know when he's concentrating because he holds his mouth open. I always get a kick out of it!

He means business in the fields and while running. Notice his tongue in the second picture, he's CONCENTRATING!

He will, I repeat, he WILL beat the crap out of you in order to get the ball. If it means pushing, punching, or laying on top of another team mate he won't hesitate. There are NO rules according to Tucker, the ball is HIS!!

He's a lefty, that's right... a LEFTY. We taught him to bat left and it didn't seem to matter how much he batted he STILL couldn't remember where to stand when he got up to the plate.

The magic of the game soon wore off and Tucker is left to entertain himself by other means. In the second picture I like his buddy relaxing in the field. Seriously Tuck, GET UP!

We never knew Tucker was SO interested in a good hand stand. On base or in the field, it didn't matter, he felt it necessary to practice, practice, practice. So what if he's in the middle of a game.

I like how he decided to take his hat off and chit-chat with a new buddy from the other team. Just relaxing in the field rather than keeping the same competitive spirit he began with.

On Her First Birthday

2009-12-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

On her first birthday we celebrated by spending time together doing things that make us smile! We took Tatum out of school for the afternoon and began our day with a picnic at the cemetery.

First item of business was cleaning her headstone. A princess doesn't like to be dirty!

They each got to pick a bouquet of flowers to give her.

Aren't they cute!?!?! She got a lot of flowers, so she shared.

Our picnic on our Jersey blanket.

After the blondies said hello and ate their lunch they were off to collect sticks. Not sure why they do this every time we're at the cemetery but they do and it makes them happy. And of course, they gave them to Jersey Girl.

Next stop was bowling, we LOVE to bowl. It's hilarious!

Notice there's no pins left standing on mine and notice Chris's face, he's mad about his bowl!

Tucker is SO entertaining when he bowls.

After to fun games we headed home. We stopped at the movie store to rent a show and snuggled for the remainder of the night. Thank you for the e-mails, visits, flowers, treats, and ornaments. I was expecting an emotional day but instead had a fun family day. We've already survived the worst so I know we can make it through!

See Spot

2009-12-01T08:53:00.000-08:00

So there Tatum and I were on our date of a dollar movie and ice cream . She mentioned on our way to the movie she got a bug bite. Then a couple minutes later she said she got 2 more. And then a few minutes later she counted 10. We went to the movie anyway. When it finished we counted many more spots and headed off to the store to get some Benadryl. Right there in the aisle I opened the box and gave her the medicine. She was SO worried she would get yelled at as we hadn't paid for it. She's such a rule follower and super scared. When we got home later that evening, Karen came over to look at her spots. She decided they were probably hives and let us borrow some creme.

When she woke up the next morning her spots had taken over her body. She was itchy and absolutely miserable. I, of course am on the verge of panicking and am already planning her funeral. I know, a bit dramatic. We called a Doctor in our ward and he looked at her. They weren't hives. He concluded they were from some sort of virus and should go away soon. He prescribed an anti-biotic. Tatum was SO worried about the way she looked. They were all over her neck and on her face. She was super mad I was taking the pictures! Needless to say we didn't go to church that day and by the end of the day they were fading! By the next morning she was completely spot and itch free and happily went to school.

One Year

2009-11-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dearest Jersey,

I can hardly believe you would be one. It's been one whole year since I first laid eyes on you, my monkey-haired princess. So little and fuzzy; you had great shoulder fuzz that I imagined smoothing down and then messing up again while I held you. You had a mouth like Tucker's and a nose like Tatum's and that hair! Where did it come from? I remember how the doctor's made me wait 4 hours to see you, how I almost went crazy while I waited, and how I sat and cried. Who would you look like? Will you have squishy cheeks? I knew without having seen you that you were perfect and mine. MINE! I remember looking at your arm tapped up to your elbow with an IV in it and then looking at your other hand to see bruised, poked skin. I remember sobbing thinking "how could they!" but knowing perfectly well it was necessary. I remember you trying to cry and when you did there was no sound because of your ET tube, I cried even harder.

I remember the next morning the nurse asking me if I wanted to hold you. What kind of question is that? You felt SO little in my arms, like I was holding air. I couldn't say very much to you, I was working so hard to keep my emotions together. I loved every bit of those two minutes, little did I know they would be my last. I soon had to hand you over to your daddy, I had to share you but didn't want to. He was smitten.

I don't know whether or not you chose to come for such a short time but I like to think that you were so extraordinary that you were chosen for your mission because it required only the purest angel. Not just anybody. What I do know is if I chose all over again I would pick you. I would pick all the heartache, desperation, and anxiety that came along with you, you are worth it. You are worth every tear drop, all the heart break, and all the missing.

So today when we would be celebrating your many accomplishments throughout the year instead we will celebrate all the beauty and perfection you represent. All the goodness and joy. We will celebrate how healthy you are now and how good it feels to know you are well. We will celebrate the fact that you are ours forever. There aren't many things that I KNOW but I do KNOW I will have you again, forever this time.

Love and miss you,

Mommy

Jersey's Party

2009-11-23T14:47:00.000-08:00

It couldn't have been a more lovely day to have Jersey's party. It was a bright sunny day and a perfect temperature with a slight breeze. This was the table that greeted our guests coming into our home.

The entry table with the party favors.

One of my favorite parts was her cake. Pink, a little bling, and oh so girly! My amazingly talented friend Mandy Rohner made this for us. She did a fabulous job!!!

My friend Alys is SO good at the details I had her help me with the decor. She did such a good job of making it pink and sweet.

I love this little girl! We also had pink cotton candy. It reminds me of a pink, fluffy cloud! Thanks Liz for all your help and making it happen!

We had an angel ornament making table. Whoever wanted to was able to make a cute, little angel for their Christmas tree. Thanks mom for all your help!

More decor. I love Jersey's pink tree. It lit up her room last December.

The pink book is my blog printed. I LOVE this book, I can't read it without crying. The white box stores her beads of courage.

The food spread before all the desserts arrived. Thank you Crystal for helping me make and plan. And thank you girls for making such delicious desserts!

We decided to make survival kits for the parents at St. Joe's and asked for donations in order to do so. Here's the mountain of donations, I'm SO excited! We had toothpaste, tooth brushes, socks, razors, shaving cream, chapstick, deodorant, lotion, shampoo and conditioner, and several other things. Thank you for your generosity!!

We over looked the family photos so here's our last attempt.

It was a happy day where no tears were allowed. It was fun to look over the sea of pink shirts and accessories. We appreciate our many friends and families who celebrated our Jersey and who continue to love and support us.

Jersey's Birthday Party

2009-11-16T20:36:00.000-08:00

Consider this a personal invitation to Jersey's birthday. I can't believe it's already been a year! Click on the invite to view the details; if you are interested and need directions my e-mail is provided. Her actual birthday is the 25th but we're celebrating early. It'll be a HAPPY day, hopefully with few tears, and many people we LOVE and appreciate!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-10T20:43:00.000-08:00

An angel and a Wolverine, you would've thought they were dressing according to personality! :) Here they are in all their glory.

It takes a STRONG dude to be an X-men and that is exactly what Tucker is, can't you tell? He salivated over this costume at the store and could not rest until it was his. He means business in his costume and will gladly beat you up!

Tatum had known for months she would be an angel, simple as that. She decided she would dress up as Jersey, not just any old angel but HER angel. My fabulous and crafty friend Alys was a major help with her costume. It turned out really sweet and sparkly, fit for an angel!

Her shoes.

We had an unexpected visitor and we were thrilled. Nonnie surprised us all decked out as a clown. The blondies LOVED it! Her and Papa even went trick-or-treating with us!

Here Chris and I are with Wolverine and the angel...I mean Jersey.

Trick-or-treating was fun but the blondies tired much sooner than I expected. Tuck wanted to be held and we ended carrying their candy bags half way through. When I was young I remember walking ALL night, running sometimes, to get more candy than last year. I decided that next year we'll go to a few houses and then I'm taking them home so I can go trick-or-treating!

A Mini Breakthrough

2009-11-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

I had a breakthrough today, a small one, but progress none-the-less!

I was able to go to the temple today. I love the peace, quiet, calm feeling the temple affords. It's a place where I walk into and leave the world behind. Quiet voices, big smiles, and the assurance a good experience is soon to follow.

The last 11 months I've felt those same things about the temple but left feeling SO let down, disappointed, and irritated. I've expected to feel my Jersey there or catch a quick glimpse. I know it's without question the one for sure place she can be. An atmosphere that permits such a heavenly experience. I would sit in the celestial room anticipating SOMETHING! I felt, and still do, I DESERVE it. I would spend my time looking around for her, not wanting anybody to sit next to me for fear Jersey would have to move should she be there. But every time I got nothing. No visit. No vision. No voice. NOTHING! I felt disappointment, anxiety, let-down, and angry!

Like I said, I went today and for the first time since she died I didn't have her on my agenda. I didn't expect anything, just the peace the temple has to offer. And no she didn't show up or whisper in my ear but being rid of the demanding, expecting attitude felt SO good. I'm not sure why today was so different but it was and it felt nice.

Pumpkin Carving

2009-11-01T20:28:00.000-08:00

I thought surely this would be the year that the blondies FINALLY embraced the pumpkin guts. The slim, the sticky guts, ALL that comes with pumpkin carving. I was wrong. Tuck would have nothing to do with the gutting, he was all about the knife. I was up to my elbows in pumpkin guts while he busied himself stabbing and poking the lid with the knife.

Tatum, on the other hand, stuck her princess hands in her pumpkin and ripped out the guts. It was a proud moment. She couldn't help but make faces which we laughed at.

Ta-Dah! Don't they look SO different? Tatum's is on the left and Tucker's is on the right. They picked what they wanted and insisted they looked very different.

Why oh Why Tucker?

2009-10-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't necessarily consider myself a fashion victim but I feel like I know the basic do's and dont's. So WHY does this little man absolutely insist on wearing his jeans like this? Everyday.

Where ever he goes. No matter what.

Tatum's 6th Birthday

2009-10-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

This was the first year ever Tatum got a birthday party. More on that to come. Her actual Birthday is today, October 26th and I'm sad to say she is SO sick! Her fever yesterday hovered at 102.5 and was a couple times as high as 103.2. She didn't get to go to school and hasn't played with any of her birthday presents. Poor thing. She could either be sick on the couch watching TV or she could be sick in the movie theater watching a good movie and she chose the movies. We saw Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and she loved it. I felt really bad she couldn't enjoy her birthday, thankfully her teacher said she could bring her treats to class another day. We had to cancel her family party of cake and ice cream this evening and instead our little family sang to her. We love this girly and are SO grateful she's in our family!

Now the fun part of her birthday...

Seriously, could she be any cuter? Nope! The theme she chose was: Angels. Not surprising. So angel she got. She's dressed, halo on, wings on, her hair is fancy, and she's ready for her guests.

Nonnie and Auntie Nina came for back up. I would have pulled my hair out without them!

A quick family photo shoot.

The angel and I.

She requested that Nonnie come early to do her hair fancy. Nonnie does the best french braids and did not disappoint! Tater LOVED her hair do!

Tucker was in charge of helping with the balloons. After he did his balloons, Chris did the moving of tables, and a few family shots the boys were kicked out for the duration of the fiesta. GIRLS ONLY!

The cake. I stressed about what to do for weeks and stayed up way to late the night before working on it but if I do say so myself it turned out pretty cute. She liked it, I liked that she liked it!

This poster was for the game, Pin the Halo on the Angel.

We thought these were pretty funny!

All the little angels making angel dust, alo vera gel and glitter mixed. ALL angels twinkle!

Not pictured is the game, Musical Clouds which was fun but the girls didn't quite get it. They wouldn't move unless they had a cloud to land on which made for a large angel jam. There were 21 little angels in attendance; I've learned that for the next party 21 is too big a number. Ten sounds more like it! She had a fabulous time and was full of smiles. She enjoyed herself and all her cute little friends.

October Break Overview

2009-10-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

We didn't do anything exciting or go anywhere fabulous but we did have a lot of fun over October break, all two and a half weeks of it.

For a day or two the weather actually cooled down engough to sell lemonade. They drank most of it and the only customers were us parents. They loved it which is what matters!

Ice cream at our favorite spot, Yogurt Jungle, with some cute friends.

Tatum got a pedicure with Miss Hansen, her Kindersteps teacher whom she still loves and adores. She LOVES getting her toes done but even more than that she LOVED seeing Miss Hansen!

We went to the Scottsdale Train Park with several friends. The kids loved the train, merry go round, playing at the park and in the dirt, and spending time with friends.

We went to a cabin conference weekend. The weather was chilly and the kids ran wild outside. It was nice and relaxing. A cabin + conference = messy hair...for Tatum that is.

We went on our ward campout. It was a quick 15 hour get away, tonz of work and freezing temperatures!

We had a sleep over with little peanut, Leah, their cousin. Tatum was such a helper, a great big sister. Neither would leave her side. They both sat for quite a while just watching her in the swing. It tugged at my heart.

We spent a day at the Children's Museum, one of our favorite places, thanks Molly!! They never tire of all the fun things this place has to offer!

Nonnie and Pops took them to see Where the Wild Things Are and then finished with lunch at McDonald's, a favorite of theirs. It was a fun date, they didn't want me to go to the movies but were okay with me meeting them for lunch. Nice.

They got to spend an entire day with Nonnie. She took them to the park for a picnic and of course, they had a marvelous time with her!

Student of the Week

2009-10-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

Tatum was student of the week and that meant fun! She was given this poster to color and fill out so her class mates could learn more about her. She was SO excited!

This is Freedom Bear. She got her for the week and was thrilled. She is a very coveted bear and who ever has her is queen or king. She went every where with Tatum including a spend the night at Nonnie's house.

At the end of the week Tatum brought in her poster and shared it with her class. She also brought Freedom Bear back and shared what they did all week.

She even brought in Gisele, her turtle. Gisele was a hit and Tatum loved bringing her!

To finish her week we all ate lunch with her in the cafeteria. She wanted pizza and soda so that's what she got. It was fun watching her feel important and special because Heaven knows she certainly is!

Shop Chic Boutique!

2009-10-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

My friends put on this darling boutique twice a year. I always end up spending more than I'm allowed and I'm excited to once again get introuble! It's this Saturday, October 24th from 8-3. Check the map for directions. See you there!!

Ward Campout

2009-10-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

The blondies LOVE to camp so we braved the ward campout. It was a fun and freezing 13 hours. We got there just in time to set up our tent in the pitch black and warm up the stew.

We sat around the camp fire and chatted among friends.

This is how the blondies, with their friends Tyler and Luke, spent the morning. Except for the few minutes Tucker and Luke were on the side of the 65 mph highway playing in the street and throwing cars into on coming traffic. We were packing up camp and assumed they were playing in the dirt but NO! they were playing in the STREET! Chris got screamed at by some driver who pulled over and Tucker got well, let's just say he better NEVER pull that again!

They were filthy, stinky, and tired! Tuck showing his dirty hands and face. On our way home we decided to go for a quick hike with 5 other families. It got cut short because sweet Tucker had a melt down. It was fun but way to much work for 13 hours!

Jersey's Beads of Courage

2009-10-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

These are Jersey's beads of courage. Each bead represents something done to her or that she experienced. If my house was burning down and I could save one thing, other than my blondies, it would be this box. A dear friend made this for us; we already knew Jersey endured much but it was quite different seeing it. Her strand of beads is over 6 feet long, I hate how long it is!

Her beads begin after her silver name and pink beads.

Black: IV Pokes- 33

Orange: Central/PICC Lines- 6

Purple: Infusions (medications)- 13

Aqua: Tubes (NG, Chest Tubes, Foley and PD Catheter)- 8

Red: Blood Transfusions- 72

Green: Procedures- 77

* Chest X-Ray- 51

* Ultrasounds- 13

* Echos- 12

* CT Scans- 1

Sun/Moons: Days/Nights in Hospital- 41

Multicolored: Days on TPN- 41

Silver: Dressing Changes- 22

Dark Green: Days on PD (dialysis)- 27

Double Figure Eight: Days on ECMO-6

Purple: Surgeries- 5

Pink Butterfly: Her release, her new, perfect beginning!

That's a lot for a little princess to undergo, especially in the 41 days she lived! It's also sad that there are other children who have experienced worse. But for me, for my princess, it's more than enough. I'm grateful she'll never be asked to experience ANYTHING like that again. I'm grateful I know where she is. And I'm MOST grateful she's all mine and some day, there will be a glorious reunion and she'll NEVER be taken again.

Happy Birthday Turtles

2009-09-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

Happy, happy birthday to Ninja, Gisele, Bertha, and Splinter, our four turtles. We decided to celebrate with a party because babysitting group, or fun group as we call it, was coming over anyways.

The festivities began with the game musical turtle shells. The shells were decorated paper plates. Totally fun, Kalissa won that one. Next we played pin the tale on the turtle.

Grady was the winner! We all laughed and had fun watching everyone try there very best being blind folded.

And last we enjoyed turtle shells and mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Okay, so they don't exactly look like shells but I do get points for trying!

Diamond Backs

2009-09-25T12:55:00.000-07:00

St. Joe's Heart Unit was presented a check by the Diamond backs and we were able to go and the game.

Because it was Jersey related I decided we needed to sport matching shirts. So I whipped up these shirts that said "Team Jersey". They turned out really cute. Mine and Tatum's had a little bling on the T and J.

We were lucky enough to watch the game in the comfort of a suite. It was fancy and we certainly felt like VIPs!

Here we are, matching. One happy matching family.

On the back just below the collar I put her dates. I can't wait to find another occasion when we can wear them again!

Meet Tucker

2009-09-18T16:17:00.000-07:00

Not Tucker the Human, Tucker the Lizard. Tucker caught his first lizard, well...his friend caught the lizard at our house so Tuck, being the sweet boy he is, confiscated it and announced it was HIS lizard. Thankfully, his friend really is sweet and didn't mind, he's a lizard catching pro and catching lizards is nothing new to him. This, however, was Tucker the Human's first taste of lizard catching and he was thrilled. He soon decided they'd share a name, Tucker the Human and Tucker the Lizard. Him and Tatum made a "house" in the backyard. Tucker the Human was SO proud that he could pick him up; to me it looked as if Tucker the Lizard's guts were being squeezed but thankfully, he kept right on breathing and moving. The blondies wanted to keep him forever and store him in the house, which doesn't work for me. Tatum took a liking to the reptile almost as quickly as Tucker the Human but, being the girly girl she is, wouldn't pick him up. One can only imagine how sad and ANGRY they both were when I announced Tucker the Lizard would NOT be spending the night and it was indeed time to release him back into the wild. They fought and fought to keep him not understanding he would die if they did. They snuck him into the house and hid him. I walked down the hall just as they were coming out of Tatum's room. "We hid the lizard in Tatum's room," Tucker the Human announced. Tatum tried shushing him, he didn't realize he'd given away precious info. In the end they relented and Tucker the Lizard was safely released into the wild. They were both mad at me for the rest of the evening. Tatum can sure hold a grudge! The next day Tucker the Human was once again in the backyard hunting for lizards.

In other Tucker news, he got a hold of a razor and shaved half of his right arm, one long strip of his right leg, and some of his belly. Nice. He was quite proud of himself!

Being the typical boy and all that comes with it, I noticed something. He and I were snuggling just before bed, like we do every night, when I notice his wall where his bed meets the wall. Boogers, several of them, stuck there. NASTY! I asked him how they got there and he begins to tell my some obviously false story. Perhaps he's embarrassed, I didn't press, but laughed inside. It made me remember my brother and his wall. Perhaps booger picking followed by smearing all along the wall is genetic. Who knows. I'm just thankful my brother's wall was MUCH worse!

It's a Bead Party!!!

2009-09-18T15:53:00.000-07:00

It's a Bead Party and You're Invited!

(that includes all you blog stalkers!)

WHO: You and a friend...or 2....or 3...

WHERE: My house (call or e-mail for directions)

heidi.anderson@cox.net

WHEN: September 24th, from 7-LATE!!

Come early and stay late, the fiesta will be ALL night!

All you need to bring is your wallet, the rest will be supplied. Just think...BEADS GALORE! Lots of BLING and GIRLY CHATTING!

Make something for yourself, your princess, or as a gift!

Bring a friend and get 10% off!

Check out this blog to get an idea of what you can make or to get the creative juices flowin'!

www.beaddivas.blogspot.com

Hope you can make it!

Done and Done!

2009-09-16T16:51:00.000-07:00

Jersey's headstone is done, FINALLY! I'm pleased with the way it looks, I LOVE the pink writing and also enjoy there's a sweet picture to look at!

I was worried this might be hard to swallow, a headstone is so final but thankfully, it wasn't too bad. I had a little moment the first time I saw it but have been fine ever since...thankfully. Not that I'll have the same reaction seeing it next time, it could be a total melt down, who knows...so unpredictable!

Tatum liked looking at her and was happy to smile for a picture. Tucker was more interested in finding sticks and swipping flags out of vases.

I'm glad it's done, I like that her little spot now has a name and people can see our princess.

T-Ball Tucker

2009-09-14T15:43:00.001-07:00

Tucker has begged since he was 2 to play base ball. FINALLY he's old enough to sign up for t-Ball and has talked of nothing but t-ball since!

Tuck and Chris went on a date and got him some nifty cleats and baseball pants. Tucker treated them like gold the few days he waited for ball to start. Tuesday finally came around, as soon as he got home from school he chanced into his uniform. He was ready at 11:45 and practice didn't start until 5:30. It was a looooooooooong afternoon!

He absolutely LOVED practice. He ran fast, hit the ball hard, and tried catching the ball. He loves his coach and is enthusiastic and a fabulous listener while on the field.

This is a video showing how fast he can run in his new cleats.

Our Labor Day Fiesta

2009-09-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

Being Labor Day weekend we simply had to have some fun. Instead of a standard swim/bbq we decided to jazz things up a bit and rented this totally fun water slide and invited a few families over in celebration. The blondies were thrilled to say the least!

Pre-fiesta before the grass and mud took over. It must have been the longest morning for T&T, they asked every five minutes when the water slide would be arriving. When it did they squealed with delight!

Tuck sampling the slide.

Proof for later reference that we are not always lame parents. It was actually quite fun and much faster than I anticipated. I about broke me booty bone!

The chef. It was a big job grilling that many hot dogs.

The aftermath, total destruction and one very unhappy Chris. The water was like muddy soup. When it was emptied the water went up to the house covering the entire porch with mud and grass which was almost more than Chris could bear.

I say whatever, the kids had a marvelous time and it's just a backyard!

T&T were exhausted from their super fun party and long afternoon in the sun. They were dead asleep by 6:45, that right there makes it all worth it!

Curly Top

2009-09-07T10:19:00.000-07:00

I still remember every Saturday night bathing and then sitting in front of the TV while my mom wrapped mine and my sister's hair in pink, spongy curlers. I remember feeling so pretty with my long, curly hair. I just knew everybody was starring at me wishing they looked just as cute.

This is a tradition I'd like to carry on. Tatum's had short hair for quite a while and now that she's growing it it's long enough to curl. She was willing to hold still and even hand me the curlers and thought she looked funny in the mirror. She was worried that they would be uncomfortable to sleep in but thankfully she happily managed. She couldn't wait to take them out. She was SO excited!

I finally took them out and here's the product, tight, ringlet curls. It was all fun and she was full of smiles until it was time to tame the forest of curls.

They proved nearly impossible to manage and a melt down was coming. I wasn't about to let her take a shower and destroy her curly top, I'm mean I know. There were many tears and over and over she said how ugly she looked. "I look like an orphan," she yelled. She didn't, she looked darling. I promised her curls would fall a bit and assured her she'd like them better when they did. I could totally empathize with a bad hair day! Chris managed to get her in the car and we were off to church with an angry girl. She walked in covering her hair and spent the majority of sacrament meeting covering her lovely locks with both arms. Thankfully she got over her bad hair day and went to class. By the end of the day she had gotten such a response from church she decided that she did indeed like her hair but says she's done with the curlers.

Coming Soon...

2009-09-04T21:14:00.000-07:00

Jersey's headstone placed, cemented, and so very sweet!!

Gateway Airport Field Trip

2009-09-02T21:01:00.000-07:00

Tucker and his preschool class went on a field tip to Gateway Airport. It was a major hit. The kids thought this air evac was SO neat. Little did they know they were going to touch, crawl, and learn about it.

Tuck LOVED this air evac paramedic. He thought he was amazing and talked and talked and talked. He told him all about how he is 4 and a half and about Tatum and about anything else that came to his mind. The man was so sweet, he listened so well and validated everything Tuck was saying.

The pilot let the rugrats crawl all over the airplane and ask anything they wanted. Tucker couldn't get enough.

Aren't these cupcakes darling! They were all so excited! After they got their fill of the helicopter we toured the airport and saw "awesome army airplanes", million dollar airport fire trucks, and "huge airplanes". It was fun, Tuck decided when he grows up he's going to be an airport fire fighter.