The World is Our Oyster

2012-01-29T15:06:00.000-08:00

evolution works in mysterious ways

100 lb. weight limit...come on.

Snow Elephants...it's a new species

15 seconds after this photo the stroller disappeared down the hill...luckily she fell off before it crashed.

"Really? That's nasty!"

Oh yeah, snow tastes way better with a hint of salt.

Why has it taken me so long...

2012-01-26T21:33:00.000-08:00

Josh...Sorry but you are now Kimmy to me.

2012-01-23T20:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Chinese New Year!!

Hope your homes are filled with the universally powerful dragon, ginseng, and lots of elk horns!!

Taken maybe 5 seconds of each other....

This kid has several faces!

2012-01-23T20:23:00.000-08:00

We got no food, no jobs... our PETS' HEADS ARE FALLING OFF!

2012-01-15T12:53:00.000-08:00

Armanie may not have a little sister but her

brother is always down to dress up!

Dance party while we clean!

Saturday lemon curd filled donuts might become

a tradition. If only we could have a friend in the

donut business!

Official powdered sugar taster

Rocco taught him this one we think

I love it!

Josh has become an Anderson and he

is a very welcomed addition.

I do feel bad that he throws a fit when he has

to go home but it is a sweet compliment!

2012-01-15T12:25:00.000-08:00

Happy 31st Kay! It's not every day I get to spend

lunch with one of my favorites. Mostly because her

schedule has a few more open hours....

We reminisced our mission and I personally couldn't hold

back laughter! Great afternoon filled with Korean yummy

food and a trip to a rehab center. Don't forget those sheets of

paper with 25 squares! Crazy!!

Winter flurry MBA sponsored evening.

I don't take nearly as many pictures of our life in Provo...

Our favorite falls in Winter. Or is this Spring?

the weather up there was 50 degrees!

We are hoping for snow soon!

New hair

2012-01-10T14:33:00.000-08:00

Sometimes hair just has to go.

I went to Erika Painter to get my hair done this morning and realized I might not ever go back to long locks. Not when it takes me 3 seconds flat to do my hair!

Locke and I made a joint effort on Armanie's hair.

This morning she said in family prayer, "I'm thankful I love my short hair"

She is so much more dainty and angelic with this cut. Even tantrums are easier to deal with now that she has this cut. I can phase out the crying and look at her thick cutesy hair. hahaha

2012-01-05T21:12:00.000-08:00

This describes how we felt about going to

Cali for Christmas!! Oh Yeppy

But this is what happened Christmas morning

Time of pictures 8:00am!

I guess we didn't hype up the whole

'you get lots of cool stuff to open Christmas morning.'

I guess they were tuckered out from the previous weeks fun like...

Watching TV i.e. the cooking, or hunting elk shows

Christmas tradition of watching Logan make

candy canes in Ontario

Rocco's first ride! Not too impressed, rather uneasy

But this one...

He picked which elmo flying fish he wanted and loved it!!

I've forgotten how big these

animals were.

Surprisingly Rocco wasn't very interested

Lots of time with family

More cookies than our bodies

could handle.

Armanie Rocco sorry if you develop type II diabetes

I will gladly inject insulin so you still can eat Papa's

dynamo cookies

Gingerbread house that were devoured the same day

What one more week in California!!?

But can i go see Rowdy, Erza and Elliot

and their parents first??

I think learning how to ride on your own is paramount

Even a rite of passage.

I got a little sentimental when I took this shot.

4 years seemed like a long time when she was just born.

If it wasn't for pictures I wouldn't believe she's been with us that long.

Since this picture those wheels have become tinted yellow from

all the dust she's run them through. Locke and I are so impressed

that she took hold of this new found freedom.

She rides to preschool, the library, anywhere there's pavement

she'll just ride! She even has impressive dismounts, with minimal tears

Probably one of the coolest afternoons spent

Lots of rocks to throw and in Armanie's case lots to jump from

She's becoming quite adventurous.

Snowballs to throw!

A 5 dollar adventure pass was well spent.

Funniest stories in awhile!

So this is what we saw out the back door.

Ella was laughing and just being silly. Heather and I were giggling at how cute she looked....

Armanie got wind that Ella had her helmet on and in a wink

she was opening the door and this occured

Yellings of "that's my helmet", "it's very special to me you can't have it Ella!"

Look at that mane of hair, no wonder Ella was screaming for her life! And half naked. I can only imagine how fierce her face looked.

And those arms, they were meant to drum Ella, lethal move A.

After much chasing the final brawl happened.

This feud was reminiscent of my own childhood.

Heather and I bickered/fought over silly things and to be

honest I think her arm span could have be better executed in her favor

This Ella of ours got a lot of points in the department of self defense.

She held her own and has frequently sent Armanie in tears

retreating to her mother.

*There weren't permanent marks from this episode*

And within an hour they were playing dress up and serving tea

Just great pictures to remind us how sweet our little angels can be.

Yikes!

On a lighter note

We discovered Celeste's longboard and with the weather

being in the 80's staying indoors in December was a crime

Even at night; so pleasant!!

Lunch with Honey, ALWAYS a highlight.

Armanie feels on the top of the world when she gets to see

Grandparents out of their normal surroundings (not on vacation and at home playing)

She kept saying, I want to see Honey's classroom,

Trip to Balboa.

Not pictured was the sweet cruisers we rented to

stroll the boardwalk. And the Christmas tree in the bomb fire

You know I think vacationing is more fun now with older kiddos.

latest!

2012-01-05T21:08:00.000-08:00

As of tonight Locke and I are holders of a non-stop flight to Germany!!! Yahoo!!

So here's to finding the gems of Germany and spending a very long time with my hubby in a place that holds a special place in our hearts!!

So all of you who have been and done, post your secrets. No offense to those who love art and museums; we aren't going to be enjoying those on this trip. No children for 2 weeks means doing things we can't do with strollers!!

Passport renewals are going in secured envelopes tomorrow!!

Guten abend

The hair

2011-12-12T22:32:00.000-08:00

So about 3 weeks ago I was reading a friends blog. Her husband just shaved his luscious locks of hair due to side effects of cancer treatment. And I couldn't sleep that night. I wanted to do something to remind me of what others are going through. How life is delicate and how it shouls be used. I wanted to be more sensitive and helpful towards others, and for some reason cutting my hair sparked that mind set. Random? Yes, but I love it.

Anyways, I woke Locke up and told him of my plans to shave my hair, he convinced me to not take any action until the morning. I fell asleep gitty.

We put all my hair in ponytails and cut below the pony's. That was the extent of our styling plans. I had my first crew cut and adult 'comb over' all at the same time. It was fabulous! Thankfully with a combo pizza and some Lime Ricky I was able to have a friend do something marvelous. Thanks Lisa!!

Trip to Auntie Heather's and Winter Wonderland

2011-12-12T22:13:00.000-08:00

We get the Utah cousins together as often as we can

We all have fun as there is basically a friend for all

Rachel is now walking and the boys love it because she can 'play'

There was a lot of dressing up with the girls and Armanie spent a good hour

'trimming' her Aunt's tree

But when its all over; we are exhausted!!

We bundled up one night and headed out to a nearby shopping center.

There were pictures with Santa,

(Rocco wasn't a fan, and Armanie kept her distance. In her 4th year of meeting Santa she has learned that he's only scary up close. She declined to sit on his lap but was quite engaged in a conversation with him. Plus he was giving out candycanes...)

and the plaza's center had live music.

The kids danced around and it was wonderful watching the moment play out. Beautiful lights, our children doing silly dance moves in the square, chilly air and Locke nearby (I'm ready for vacation with him). I love this time of year.

recent makes

2011-12-12T22:09:00.001-08:00

Knitting needles and I are TIGHT

Can't get enough of it.

Both are his!

2011-12-10T20:00:00.000-08:00

Locke went fowl hunting today and brought home several varieties.

Armanie has gone through the spectrum of opinions towards Locke's hunting; from 'I don't want to eat deer meat' to the other extreme of 'I want to cut the duck's head off'. He and I were quite amazed.

This evening she has plucked feathers and as I type is learning how to de-breast our mallard.

I'll admit living at the Anderson Butchery has put me on 'germ' edge. I find myself quarantining Armanie to a small area and taking away things that she would normally grab if her hands weren't drenched in animal parts.

But I'm grateful that there is rarely a lack of meats in our freezer and plenty of anatomy education going on in this home.

Best line from it all is 'Rocco do you want a ducky kiss?' As she has the limp ducks head in her hands and Rocco is leaning in for the smooch.

Rocco has recently learned how to bulge like an elk

Most mornings and after naps watching elk on YouTube is what is on his mind.

This one doesn't do justice to his skill but nonetheless you get the idea.

Let the Holidays begin

2011-11-22T19:26:00.000-08:00

Yaya came to our house! A few days of all the things we love

Books, cookies, and dress up!

Mr. Anderson and Miss Anderson right off the

Mayflower

Sugar cookie trees with almond frosting!

Our new favorite!

Lately when we tell Rocco to do something he's

very prompt about obeying.

"Rocco it's time for a bath..."

In he goes.

"Rocco do you need to use the potty?"

He goes to the bathroom and does his business

Is this too good to be true??

Sweet little guy!!

Armanie's hand picked outfit, ready for

school~

Today Armanie had a feast at school. Popcorn, turkey, apples and craisins. Oh and a little birthday treat from Jadyn.

While Armanie was at school the boys petted some

frozen wildlife.

Sneak peek of our family pictures

Armanie insisted on

a skirt and red shoes.

I love it!!

Literally done with pictures!

Halloween Party at Preschool

2011-10-28T22:57:00.000-07:00

halloween costumes

2011-10-28T22:30:00.000-07:00

It was fun making them!

And yes I did have a 24hour non slumber party

with myself as I finished the dress part of

for Alice.

The only improvement from last year was that

i took a 3 hour nap from 5:40am to 8 something

surprisingly i didn't hit a wall until 3 that afternoon.

I don't think I'll do it again. Its just not fun to have your bum

go numb from sitting and my eyes went blurry and my head a little fuzzy :)

I was pretty excited that Armanie wanted to go to the fabric store with me this time

she picked out the color and remembered that the bow was black.

Sweet little Minion

The neighborhood kids at the library's storytime.

My little nephew is on the far right

This was what she chose to sleep in.

Rocco has been climbing a lot and

for 2 seconds of unsupervised

time this is where we found him

with his hands in hot salsa.

he actually tried to dig in for seconds

but for the sake of repercussions on the

tail end we stopped him

Results from her first real choice

Scenario: She had a choice of what to wear

to her final game of soccer.

She chose the skirt.

Gets to the soccer field and begins

to pout because she wanted pants.

Then screams and refuses to play soccer

when I offer to take her home she hustles

back on the field later to come back wanting

to wear pants.

I think this was a very successful lesson. She now

thinks somewhat about which clothes are fitting for

which activies and a part of me wishes she would have made

a better choice because whines pretty darn good.

Armanie convinced the neighborhood

boys they needed their toes painted...with water that is

I haven't been baby hungry at all! I mean At ALL!

But I watched 2, 5 month olds (on different days) and

my children are so sweet to the little littles. Rocco loves it

He cuddles next to them and gives them toys. This picture was not

staged, except the prompt to say 'cheese' which Rocco delivered.

I love having babes in my home, at least I know now that my children

love them too!!

A few days in Idaho Falls

2011-10-20T19:06:00.000-07:00

We came to spend a few days with these favorites!

And we got to see a lot of other family too, even though we were

extremely spontaneous and didn't expect to get

as much exclusive time with them.

Thank you for being so kind and letting us play with you

Grandma and Pa, Victor & Helena and Geralee!!

Geralee from the looks of this picture Rocco has never

seen braces before! :)

this little man is making quite a few faces that crack us all up which starts a

string of giggles.

Helena made cookies with Armanie and she LOVED them!!

Locke doesn't have school this week so he's been

growing it out in anticipation of no interviews and no

professional commitments!

By the way we are going to !!!TEXAS!!!

Congrates Locke!!

We took the kids and the grandparents to Yellowstone.

There we spotted a lot of buffalo, cow elk and a few bulls!

It was beautiful weather and we even made it to see Old Faithful

and some other 'stinky' geysers!

This was as close as Locke got to eating a

buffalo burger

While waiting for Old Faithful to erupted

Rocco gathered quite the following of crows

He chased them and they chased him.

There she goes!!

The upper falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

How did 4 years go so fast?!

I love this picture!

This buffalo is a lot closer to our car than pictured!

I was driving and was coerced into riding along side this

animal. I've heard stories of animals taking their

aggression out on provoking humans. Well I was driving

someone else's car and didn't want anything to happen

so I'm surprised Locke got this shot off, as I wasn't

spending too much time next to this beast!

Very neat though to be so close to them.

Timp Hike

2011-09-18T22:20:00.001-07:00

Blast you camera...it will have to do.

Started out at 6:30

At the time a little daunting to think we'd be above

those peaks in the center in a few hours.

The fog rolled in and made this stream

drop off to no where

forgot our snow shoes...

Surprisingly it was less cold then down below

less wind or more work exerted?

This was as good as it got for us. Considering

it was our first hike of the year I felt fine taking in the

views and turning back without reaching the summit.

Just for the records we were 40 minutes away from the

top There was a crowd starting to form around the

narrow parts of the trail and clouds were rolling in, plus wind and ice.

Better safe then tenderized!

Picture from the saddle

Great trip all around. Thanks Lish and Ricky for

watching the littles!!

"But nobody is sharing!!"

2011-09-18T21:36:00.001-07:00

Team "Zebra"

2011 3 year old Soccer Team

Notice Armanie become compliant

with the 'no hands' rule

immediately

Armanie on the left kicking the ball

After this she runs to the side lines and says

"I have to go potty"

I take her to the bathroom and on the way back to the field

she says, "I don't feel like soccer today, I feel like I want

to play at the playground"

Can't blame her there were some

fun slides there!

Dialogue at the end

"Mom I've got a booger"

"Here it's your turn"

Dispensing of snacks made all her woes of the

first soccer game fade away

She even shared her fruit snacks with her

brother, what a sport!

Hike to the Y

2011-09-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

Locke and I wanted to hike Mount Timpanogas but hadn't done much hiking this summer let alone worked an uphill. So we decided, very spur of the moment, to hike the Y with Rocco while Armanie was at preschool. Took us about 50 minutes with some close calls as we hiked this with a squirmy little dude on our backs. Thanks Kings for the carrier!

Rocco's entertainment was two fold: Dogs on the trail and foliage. He snagged branches, leaves, anything that lost in a tug-of-war. This added another dimension to our already out of shape bodies and weakened knees.

When let out of the carrier he

beat us to the car!

Labor Day weekend

2011-09-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Started the day out with some calisthenics with the olders. Armanie loves the Granny look!

Then hillbillied it up to Bridal Veil falls. Rocco loved the wind in his

hair!

My NEWEST niece Rachel. I'm quite fond of this mellow marmot!!

Sweet smile, easy to entertain, observant in the quietest way, and might be the most

resilient little sister I've seen, she laughs in the face of danger Ha Ha Ha

Anyways we got to see the falls before we had to find a restroom of Armanie.

Had a little picnic.

More MM time, those eyes might be

my favorite! Oh and those little teethes come in!

Our day was complete with a little bit of catch, rock throwing and toesy dipping in the river. Thanks Bugs for bring the crew our way! Let's do a hike soon the colors are changing in the canyon!!

The collision!

2011-08-29T22:39:00.000-07:00

!Ouch!

Wow what a trip

2011-08-25T20:06:00.000-07:00

Probably my favorite picture of these two!

!!Thanks Cody and Celeste for a great summer!!

We miss you!

Just got the children's stats at the doctors last week (in Utah)

Armanie is 39lbs x 39''. She had a 4'' growth spurt between Jan and August

She started preschool and loves Mrs. Nelson but not 'Mrs Rebecci' which is the

same person a little jackal and Hyde? Maybe. She liked Mrs. Nelson because Locke was with her and then when he left she became Mrs. Rebecci. When asked if she likes preschool, she'll tell you, my Daddy left me and I was there all by myself!

She was very happy to be home in Provo but often asks about her Honey and Yaya

and wants to know if she can go to Rowdy's birthday party again!

She loves books. Today she made a tsunami mess in the office with books spread across

every inch of the floor. Then says Mom, I make messes and you are good at cleaning up.

You do that okay?!

(spinach berry smoothie Popsicle in his hand)

Rocco: 23lbs x 30''

Still a groover. Rocks out to just about anything that

makes a sound. Yesterday we were outside after it rained

and he started to bob his head to the rhythm of a drip.

Wrestles and laughs at us when we say 'moo'

Avid signer! With I love you, please, thank you and more in his

skill set he is quite the polite fellow.

Follows his sister's example and loves bux "books"

He's a friendly guy from a distance but becomes a clinger to M&D

when you come into he's personal space :)

A common scene in Justin Texas around

6:30 in the evening when Dad comes home.

Now that Rocco is a walker he doesn't need

much help with difficult things

He meets challenges with lots of bruises

and even more so curiosity.

He jumped out of the tub tonight without much

thought about what would happen after

he got over the side of the bath.

Trip to California

First day: Left Justin at 5:30 and drove until

the kids woke 8:30ish just outside of Amarillo

We stayed in Albuquerque that night 600+ miles

They were more than happy to get

off their boom-kissakissa's (as Armanie refers to it as)

In the Hyatt Regency

$26/per night via Priceline!!

Great view, freezing cold outdoor pool

Cozy beds=12 hours of sleep for big and small

On our way to Cecilla's Cafe

Holy Avadado! That's hot!

An A. shot

Day 2: Off to flagstaff. Hit rain and more rain dropped to low 60's

Good thing we had sweat-shirts for the kids

Locke and I were still cooling off from TX

Rocco learned how to use his "freeze ray"

in downtown Flagstaff

Overall our little ones became proficient in the car by

*entertaining themselves with limited resources

*sleeping when the other was singing at the top of their lungs

there are more new skills but it's getting late...

They loved Balboa

I thought the waves were going to sweep them

into the depths of the ocean!

Trip on the train with Papa And a ride home with Grandpa

Busy day for #1 and #2

Gitty Up Cowkids!!

2011-07-20T18:04:00.000-07:00

!!Best 25 Cents we have ever spent!!!

2011-07-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

I'm one for the experience. Every child should go to

a professional game of some sort but when the concession stand charges you

more for your food then your ticket something is wrong

Slow night at the Pizza Hut stadium

Yahoo!! FC Dallas scored another Goal on Salt Lake Real!

We were disappointed Real didn't come to Texas with their A Game,

in fact they didn't even come with their B or C game. Pitiful!

Just a little singing the car at 11at night

2011-07-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

We went out to dinner with our littles

We are definitely on our toes with this

little man. He is so grabby about poured

BBQ sauce all over us.

He looks great in his sister's clothes

He had a blow out but didn't want that to

deter us from seeing the Ft. Worth Water Gardens again.

"She does look like me." -Katie

She's cute!

Texas evenings are best spent on a bike! I love these

local getaways! There are some pretty quaint homes in

the Bowlers neighborhood.

Swimming pool is a frequented spot here. It's perfect

for Armanie and Rowdy because they can touch.

2011-07-12T10:38:00.000-07:00

2011-07-10T15:31:00.000-07:00

Just a little mobility update on #2

I should have photographed all the bruises

he has gotten; by now bruises have occupied

almost every inch of his face. Poor thing!

2011-07-10T13:26:00.000-07:00

Below are some pictures of our Louisiana adventures. We went to Caddo Lake, a classic bayou. It was beautiful and ugly, elegant and creepy, stagnant and verdant all rolled up into one dang hot, humid lake. We took a steam boat tour around the lake, best money we spent on that trip....scratch that, the ice cold bottled water was the best money we spent on the trip.

These black cypress trees grow to be 1000 years old. The youngest trees on the lake are 100 years old, because in order for the seed to sprout they need a dry period of 6 months, now the water in the lake is regulated so it never drops low enough for more trees to start up.

Most of the lake is fairly shallow, so back in the 1800s canals were dug through it so that trade could flow though in the area, mostly logging and cotton transportation to the red river.

It was 103 degrees and the lake was quite humid, the kids had a melt down, below is the calm after the storm, so to speak.

There are alligators in both the pictures below, can you see them?

I was lying about the alligators.

Bass Pro shop had a sale on their coon caps, but we're still to cheap for on sale coon caps.

Yep, ol pap wrasteled dat gata, und den Wocco dun checked it fur its parts. Dat gata dont gonna cuse no mo problams round here!

Rocco was really kissy with the does. He was more grabby with the bucks?

Below is old smiley. You cant tell me he don't look delicious.

In the end we got to eat gators, crawfish, mystery meat sausage, and swampy gumbo, and got us free case of Louisiana bum fire afterwards....good trip.

Trip to Louisiana

2011-07-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Four day weekends in a new place we couldn't

resist taking off.

(Well it took a little more prep with two lil' travelers)

"It's hot down in these parts"

We got to the hotel and the kids had to check out the pool

If anything we learn on this trip it's get a hotel with

a pool!

Most evenings we spent in the pool. We experienced our first

hotel "Pool Party".

Rocco got the corner of the nightstand

He was close to getting his first set of stitches

"Ice Pindown"

2011-07-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

more blogging later

2011-06-05T22:05:00.000-07:00

He's a growler! and a crazy monkey

that climbs all over the place!

After getting over the fact that water mocassin's play in these parts

We had a lot of fun swimming in the lake.

Sometimes movies work for us all!

Except Rocco

Armanie has learned to pee outside.

Quite funny actually, how comfortable she is doing it.

It's great for long road trips but not so much

family gatherings, and public places.

It's a phase that will pass. It's just cute to see little ones

in unders running around

Bubby and Chelsea

2011-06-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

We love you!!

Chels and Bubby thanks for a fun evening!

I can still taste Root Beer! hahaha

Fort Worth's Water Garden

2011-06-05T21:47:00.000-07:00

Isn't this cool!

In the middle of nowhere

there is this

oasis.

thanks Leste and Cody for a well

spent afternoon.

The Quiet Pool

We made it to Texas about 2 weeks ago :) (highlights)

2011-06-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

Cousins together at last!

One of the first things they did together was

eat pink and green Ice Cream. The two's favorite colors

!Cuties!

Hair styles for all

regardless if you needed it or not :)

this boy is ready to swim!

Garden of the Gods, Colorado

After 10 hours of seeing this sight.

We arrived at Locke's cousin's and rested our backsides

Then off to more adventures.

To the Sabey's bed and breakfast :)

It was fun to catch up Locke hasn't seen Jim and Carrol in

years. The kids got to be stable mates and feed animals and ride on a pony.

It was a nice break in our trip!

2011-05-15T21:19:00.001-07:00

Almost daily Armanie gets on her stage and spills

her inners...got to love a girl that knows who and what she wants!

2011-05-15T21:04:00.000-07:00

Peek-a-boo

Armanie the fish

Beloved Syndey

i think she's ready for her mom to teach her :)

thanks Sydney for teaching our little one the wonders

of the water!!

Easter

2011-05-01T15:19:00.001-07:00

Swimming lessons '11

2011-05-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

Armanie is officially a 'fish'.

Her teacher's name is Sydney. or Simney

as Armanie calls her

So far she has been able to blow wicked bubbles

and is working on full submersion.

She loves the water and can't wait for

Tuesdays and Thursdays to come!

Thanks Honey and Grandpa for being

this little 'fish's' fans!!

(Playing with Aunts)

Thanks for all the support family!!

You are always welcome at our cozy home! :)

A has a twinner in her class they are cute and the only

girl fishes

2011-04-23T21:25:00.000-07:00

The original song

I'll lead this one

2011-04-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

The boy can groove

2011-04-23T20:48:00.000-07:00

Calls for celebration

2011-04-19T19:47:00.000-07:00

She turned 90k.

So I and the kids took a road trip

(Locke was in Houston for a business competition)

They became best of friends on our way to MOAB!!

Thanks Ballard's we will always welcome spontaneous trips!!

View from a hike. Where we camped.

On our way up to Corona Arch

this boy wouldn't keep his hat on.

Armanie out did herself. Climbed cables like

a champ!!

View from Corona Arch

We made it 3 miles roundtrip

He slept on the way down.

Cutie

There's nothing like story time on a campout

And a fire. A. insisted that there be a fire for

marshmellows

Day 2: Arches National Park

Delicate Arch. I did this one without the help of Kate and Shawn. Daring

but worth it.

But this stone slab=lots of breaks

Right in the middle of the trail. :)

Nothing like hiking with kids. I was able to

appreciate the scenery more

Then the trail got scary. This ledge and

wind was a little unnerving but...

it was great on top!!

Rocco could hike another 3 mile-r

just as long as there are snacks.

On the trail down. Delicate arch in the far distance.

This picture does not accurately portray Armanie

on the second half of the trip.

I carried her and Rocco probably a good 3/4th and the other

1/4 was with her crying and wailing "I'm tired"

"Won't you carry me Mom?!" and lots of breaks! :)

But she pulled through as soon as she could see the parking lot.

Couldn't be more proud. She asked if we were going to see another

arch 2 hours later.

Doesn't do justice but some pretty amazing

rocks out there.

But after a 3 hour drive home we were all glad to see Dad!

We all had a good weekend but it's good to be home.

1,100 miles covered in 2 days!

2011-04-09T19:33:00.000-07:00

the last two weeks have been very eventful.

About a month ago I and Locke's parents worked out a two week trip. Here' the recaps.

Senior Mr. & Mrs. Anderson picked I and the kids up and took us along with them to Idaho Falls. Good old visiting with a few get together-s, spring cleaning with chainsaws and lots of sleep! Then we drove back to Provo to change out cold weather luggage for more suitable wear for southern California and for I and the kiddos to give Locke lots of hugs and smoochies before we headed out of town for another week. Drove the rest of the day and got into so cal dog tired and ready for 48 hours of sleep!

So. Cal was just what this dry skinned, frozen Utahan needed. It was 70 + most days with a few rain storms which is always nice to run around in. We got to see my Grandmother from NC and got in a lot of time with cousins and grandparents.

We flew back yesterday. Would I do it again?! yes except I would fly Locke down so he could be with me when we flew home. having two little ones with their carseats and luggage and then being on the airplane with them....I could have used 3 more set of hands! I woke this morning with the worst knots in my shoulders from all the carrying of children and carting around "entertainment" and snacks for the little ones. Not complaining because if anything went array at the airport we were equipt with cozy blankets and food to last us for 48 hours. Armanie, had no accidents and no mid flight potty breaks. She did crawl out of her seat belt when we were landing and I ended up holding two children when we touched down in Salt Lake. I forgot to bring something to equalize the pressure for take off's and landings. Eek

but over all she did great and was even excited to look out the window. she kept saying "Look Mom we are flewing" And when her Father asked if she would fly again she said, Not right now, maybe when my sister comes. I'm assuming the next child we have will be a sister and that won't be for a few years, so we'll just put this experience on the shelf and be glad to be home!!

Papa feeding Rocco a "Must have" pastrami sandwich from Georges. Lots of meat and little bread!

Rocco and Rachel. He is such a billy goat.

Boy can't keep from climbing on top of things; even his defenseless

cousin

Armanie showing me this "fabulous pool!"

quite the feat; to get 9 children to stay in

close vicinity to take a picture.

Thanks Yaya for taking us all the way to the

gate. (taking the shuttle to the airport)

2011-03-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

Armanie and I went to our first play.

First impression: Hesitant

Second thought: She loved it. All of the elements she loves; dancing,

singing, cute costumes, and a silly dog running around causing mischief

First weekend of realitive good weather, we go fishing. Here's Armanie's Dad's cousin's son showing Armanie a fish. She wasn't too interested, but I thought it cute that Easton was pointing it out to her.

I wear hoodies for two reasons I don't have to mess with a zipper and

it's entertainment/chew toy for my son

2011-03-09T22:09:00.000-08:00

What makes him happy?

Raspberry shakes and holding the cup by his self.

Still dreamy!

Removing her friends shoes....So kind!

Size: 9 months. Nothing is too small, if it means looking FANCY! Have we chosen the most perfect name for her?!

My favorite family picture. I'm technically apart of this moment because i'm looking at these breathtaking faces

Armanie and Rex at the Fire station. Armanie was terrified of the whole thing, until...I actually don't know what clicked in her brain to tell her that she would not be ran over by the fire engine's wheels or that the sirens wouldn't be turned on... She's silly some times with the amount of 'anxiety' she portrays.

today-personal venting post

2011-02-24T00:31:00.001-08:00

had to blog about today...

I had a fuji apple at the park today and split open my finger pretty good. What's up with me and pamper chef gadgets? I cut myself about 98.9% of the time i touch an apple section-er. today wasn't any different. thought i could use one on the go...Nope! Locke thinks i need stitches, i think i need to rethink my approach and thinking altogehter, and see if my immunization shots are up to date those blades were rusty....

Lately A. is exerting all of her agency. Mostly in the negative. (I thought 18 months was bad.) For example, A. has friends upstairs she loves to play with. She wakes in the morning at 7 and wants to play with them. So we go up at 9:00. We knock; no answer. Knock again; no answer. I say let's try again another time.

A: NO they are home.

M: they didn't answer the door, we'll come back.

A: NO, Mom they are!

I just walk away. because i'm learning that she's really good at repeating me in the negative. I.e. A. it's hot wait a little. No, Mom it's not hot *she takes a big bite, and spits it all out* When does the apologies start from a child. I just want to hear, "You're right Mom, I'll wait until it's cool." I'm thinking it won't come until she's 20 and even then it won't be directly communicated. It's alright. The apple didn't fall far from this Mother tree. I'm sorry Mother! For it all. You were/are right on so many occassions!

Tonight was especially heart-breaking. We get home from the zoo and we left the house thrashed. Luckily we were all feed so crankiness was minimum. I tell A. that she needs to pick up her dresses and put her books in the check-jong *Korean for bookcase (she actually gave me a "huh" when i told her to put her books in the bookcase the other day. I love how she's getting Korean) When the word 'clean' came out of my mouth the sobbing started, correction, a NO came out. I escorted her to her room because the word NO reached its daily inappropriate usage. She then started to sob. I tried to reason with her on the importance of cleaning our home before bed. Locke, with a comprehension of a 3 year olds mind then told her that children who don't clean their rooms are telling their parents that they don't want their toys and thus the toys will go away. This realization was very dramatic and there was inconsolable wails and severe mourning. If I told her she could have anything at this point she still wouldn't stop crying, it made me think she was somewhere else mentally. Long story short it took a few visits by her father and favorite toys conviscated in order to get her room cleaned. It was rough for me. We were going going going today and all she wanted to do was play in her room. My first born didn't get to bed until 9:45. Hopefully she sleeps in tomorrow. Because it's now 1:52am and i've finally made some sense of the 'office'. Anyone want a queen size box spring?? I want the valuable space it's occupying right now! I think i'm slightly ocd about having things in places that maximize their use (Locke, all of the fabric will be used. Both pinkies in the air) but it isn't always functional organization *working on this* and not cleaning until all hours of the morning. I'm 29 and ready to have a house. Locke, will you buy a house with me by the time you are 35?!

2011-02-15T22:31:00.000-08:00

A frequent occurance aka morning stare

Unlike Armanie who pops out of bed and everything is a go

Legs, arms, mouth, requests...

Sweet Rocco takes about a solid 45 min. to come to life.

He's got two TEETH!! And he's still happy!

Nothing like a 10 min. tour at Krispy Kreme to make Armanie excited about making her own 'glazing waterfall' (Not shown, it's quite amazing)

Meet 'Mani's twin from another Mother. Her favorite color: Pink Favorite outfit: Dresses (but both mothers were successful in getting their children to wear weather appropriate clothing) So many more similarities. But these girls willingly set this scene up. No coaxing (sp?) I was lucky to snap this shot, as 'Mani finished her examination of Elise's baby and professionally brought her shirt down. Cute!

Gave the booster chair back today. This just looks uncomfortable.

Tomorrow starts something new

2011-02-06T14:17:00.000-08:00

For the next 90 days I'll be doing at least a few things consistently. The newest is

!p90x!

I told myself I had a window of 8 months to transistion into having

2 children, no commitments, no regimens.

Relax and enjoy the short time I have when Rocco is an infant.

The little man will be 8 months in 4 days!

So for the next 90 days I'll be exercising on a regular basis and getting back the food habits I somewhat once had previous to Rocco coming to our family.

Wish me luck!

I'm determined to do it, mainly because Locke says I struggle with being

consistent and it will only be a P10x (I'll only do it for 10 days)

I am one to take on a challenge and unfortunately it's one I think Locke is right about, but I'm up for it. Pictures will be taken at 30 day intervals...sorry won't post them on the blog :)

Kids get Kuts

2011-02-05T16:59:00.000-08:00

Rocco looks so old now! So does A.

All her curls are gone :)

I didn't think i would but I did save locks from both heads.

Morning time tents

Rocco is now in a big kid chair. And here's Armanie's new ride. (Babies R Us trade in sale)

I miss the convenience of carrying Rocco in his infant chair but we need the room in the back seat for other things....like another infant chair!

just kidding! we aren't expecting.

2011-01-31T20:42:00.000-08:00

Latest makes. little shoes for sweet Elliot!

Rocco's hat.

Latest family news!

Congrates LOVE!

Off to Texas in the summer

words can't describe how giddy we are!

I can't get enough of them!! He loves his sis! He actually is concerned when he can't see her in the room. He just stares at her most of the day!

We're out on a walk to the grocery store in 35 degree weather. I love it! We've all got thick skin and there is more snow in the forecast! Great, because I have to redeem myself after being too strong of a Mom and punching 'frosty's' head off. I was in a silly mood. Sorry A!

Hooray! Congrates Eli and Heidi!

Hair ball

2011-01-27T21:58:00.000-08:00

****Disclaimer**** Real pictures, don't be too grossed out!! One of the best dollars spent has been on our vacuum! Serious, I love this machine. So I was vacuuming tonight and thought to check the aggitator brushes. This thought came not because Betsy aka the Dyson lost suction but it had been a while since I cleaned them. This is what was removed!

2011-01-11T21:59:00.000-08:00

our latest

2011-01-11T20:48:00.000-08:00

Locke got his laptop back that has a memory card port so it's so easy to upload pictures!

Rocco is now 7 months!!

Lately Armanie climbs into Rocco's pack 'n play

When she hears him wake from his naps.

Here's she reading a story to him, rather

turning the pages as their Great Grandmother

reads 'Tis The Night before Christmas'

What's unusual here??

No, she usually doesn't wear clothes. But

below her feet is one of her favorite spots in the house

The heating vents! She will bring all her toys to this spot.

Last night at bed time she said, "mom, I'll got to bed

AFTER I sit on the 'air' " The only thing I can make of it

is that its warm, but why doesn't she want to wear clothes?

Can't believe he's eating solids now!

Armanie's sister she's always wanted!

Sweet Emme came over the other night and

it was cute to see them run around the house together

Lowe's we Love Build and Grow

Armanie hammered like a true carpenter!

And she definitely brought more PINK into

the store :)

My besty had a birthday.

That would be a 30 if read right to left :)

Armanie loved the birthday party, all the people, laughing, ice cream!

I think Kay you set a precedent here for future b-day parties

She asked, "when is Kay going to have another birthday?" hahaha

Once again in her brothers "space" hahaa

This time when asked what she is doing she said,

Ah Mom, I'm just picking his boogies." In a tone of voice like

It's not a big deal. :) All the while Rocco has those dreamy eyes

towards his sister and only cries when the corner of her book

whacks him in the head.

Starting out the New year very Loudly

2010-10-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

Meet Abby Cadabby

She made her debut on

Sesame Street in 2006.

Witty fairy,

says funny things and loves new experiences

So I thought it would be a perfect fit for Armanie

I had a lot of fun putting this costume together. First time i started and finished with a pattern. And the first time I stayed under budget! Made this whole outfit for 11 bones. Not bad.

*Cute story*

M: Armanie if you go to sleep now then you can wear your Abby Cadabby costume tomorrow morning.

A: Okay. then goes straight to bed and we don't hear another sound from her.

I crawl into to bed around 11pm.

L: Are you going to finish Abby Cadabby tonight?

Or right!

I finished a rough costume by 5:30am. The only thought i had the whole time was. "Armanie is going to love this!"

And she DID.

This was her response the next morning.

OH my ABBY CADABBY COSTUME! Thank you Mom, Gracias, Gracias!

You did it! I'm so proud of you Mom.

It was all worth it! (Thanks Jen for watching her the next day so i could catch up on sleep!!!)

Armanie and Rocco at the MBA Halloween party

First trip to wildlife taxidermy aka Cabella's

Took the kids on a drive through the canyon to see the colors! Breathtaking. Sorry the pictures aren't clear!

He really is even cuter in real life

Nothing says fall like a corn maze!

We were cheaters and crawled under

the fence.

We would still be in the maze if we didn't!

Lately I've got no control of how this one dresses!

As soon as we get in the door her clothes are off

and an ensemble like this is created!

The other morning before preschool she had a melt down

because she couldn't wear a sleeveless dress.

It had just SNOWED! But she was still determined.

Next time I'll let her walk out the door and see if she doesn't

realize that clothes serve a purpose around here. To provide WARMTH!

But little one I'll keep producing dresses and frills if that's what you are into!

Weekend fun

2010-10-17T13:05:00.000-07:00

I took Armanie on a hike about 2 weeks ago

and she loved it, kept pretty good speed too for a 2 y.o.

I thought she was ready to tackle "the Y" 2.4 mile round trip and about 1,000 feet altitude gain.

Regardless how she did it was a beautiful day to be out. I love it in Provo, especially when the colors are changing.

(First two pics are not taken by me. Thanks Google images)

.8 of 1.2

She and we were done! Couldn't carry her and she didn't want to walk anymore. We took a long rest before we headed back down. Good start! I'm impressed that we got her that far.

Locke sporting his new blue cast.

He's a new man now that he has use of his elbow!

It was funny to watch him extend his arm for the first time on Wed.

She's been reading herself to sleep

lately. And wearing her favorite attire, a princess dress.

We went to the Bean Museum in Provo with some friends

Here's Armanie and Brooklyn Fields.

We are trying to teach her how to hug not choke-hold!

She'll get it someday.

!Cuties!

Tender moment.

Armanie was actually talking to an attentive brother.

"Rocco we need to find ....

I found it, see"

Rocco was very content with his sister!

2010-10-10T20:15:00.000-07:00

Kiddo-isms

2010-09-26T23:53:00.000-07:00

Armanie now loves to bathe in Rocco's tub.

But when it's his turn she gladly jumps next to the tub in a fun splashing space just for her.

Thanks to a Korean friend I was able to get a rear carrier. It's basically a backpack and Rocco Loves it! EMO recognize this outfit!? I can't believe he fits in it!

"Armanie, no more cantelope (sp?) Ah MOM, please

as she dashes to the counter with her bowl ready to fill!

"Mommy, I think I hear Rocco." No he still sleeping Armanie "I go check on him" (I walk in and this is what I see) Rocco was rudely awakened by his sister. * I put her in the crib, but she had a stool she stood up on to stir the little child!*

One of my favorites

Armanie puts a bowl on his head and says,

Look Mom the ice cream man!

Where she got that idea I don't know!

Tributes

2010-09-26T22:39:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've had to really say 'goodbye' to someone I love. But then again after my trip to West Virginia I realized that it was merely a 'we'll see you later'

This post is to tributes that have been unspoken until now.

First, is to a Grandmother who is fighting many battles right now. And in the midst of a victory and loss she showed herself how she really is. Tired, heartbroken, sincere, and hopeful. I've known her to be a woman of few public words but in private a wealth of knowledge. What I would give to spend several days doing menial things but in the process be in an environment to ask questions and get her take on things. I look forward to doing this! Nana, this may be why I like to clean with you. Be assured my motives are pure :)

With the passing of her husband, and the very very short time I was face to face with her I sensed what it feels like to mourn, and experience death, but it was not through many tears. True mourning was all encompassing, but it wasn't the dark gloom as I thought it would be, when my Grandfather passed. It was like the crispiness of Spring. When all the memories come flooding back. Of tender moments that make relationships last forever! But also (this doesn't go along with spring) the tender reminder that a loved one is gone. Excuse the weirdness though, but I wish for more pseudo-deaths, or something like it that would spark such vivid memories from the smell of their home to the cracks in the sidewalks along Annadale lane. There are so many memories packed into inanimate objects. I struggled to stay in the present when I was there because there were so many thoughts that took me away. At the end of the day I labored to go to sleep because I was banking away all the memories I came in contact with vowing not to forget. Sure, I would but not the underlying feelings of trust, admiration, inspiration, love and joy, that came from those few square feet of home and property. Nana and Pop's home is magical. Journal entiries will continue to go unfinished with these thoughts.

Second, Pop. My Pop!! Tributes of ones' life are interesting; as accounts were spoken of my Grandfather after his funeral I couldn't help but credit Tim Burton in his attempt to theatrically capture this notion of how a life touches others. The closing scene of an all time favorite, Big Fish, the father's funeral was attended by folks who would never have gathered to one place without this person. Quite beautiful. And so it was with this post memorial lunch in, people sharing stories about my grandfather some I'd never heard before. Inspired me to really live whole heartedly today, as our lives are intertwined with others and we will be remember for what and how we treated those we come in contact with. Regardless of how I die this is something I care about, to do the right things for the right reasons.

Third, tribute to my family. *It's late at night*, but I think moments would be better preserved if someone managed to retract the mind's eye. I would invest, because I don't want to forget "Mr. Miyagi", and laughing at Diary Queen with Leanne and Frank, watching Rocco and Joshua. The moment at Greenwood Cemetary finding a Mr. Morse. Glimpse's of my parents, siblings, and extended family's feelings across a spectrum of emotions. And sensing the sacrifice to be together at one significant occasion, regardless how short the stay was.

And I was like hey, Hey, HEY STOP!

2010-09-26T21:44:00.000-07:00

Locke's driver's license has been targeted. It was in his pocket when a tree fell on the car (claim #1) when he drove down Payson Canyon (Claim #2) and when the truck hit him (Claim #3). Yes, Locke got hit by a truck last week.

Have you ever had that sick feeling in your heart though that someone is not quite okay. I was making 'blender pancakes' Thursday night when I felt it. 'Locke got hit on his bike.' was the thought I had.

{No, that's just me worrying because he should have been home 45 minutes ago} Then the phone rang. Hello, Is this Katie? Hi I'm a crisis nurse, calling to tell you that your husband was hit by a car. (Pause, WHAT! Really?!) He has a broken arm, but is doing better. Yes, you can come see him. Please drive carefully on your way here. Click. Wow, what just happened! Never has a conversation made me more somber. Locke got hit by a left turning Ford F150. He said he saw the truck but just assumed the driver saw him because he in the cross walk and the driver was making a left hand turn and there weren't other cars blocking his view. Locke looked up from adjusting his pedals and the truck was just about to hit. Locke flew maybe 10 feet onto the concrete. Mind you, he wore no helmet (I know Michelle, he now has learned his lesson) and the man only suffered from an intra-articular fracture of the radius aka a broken wrist. Miracle. No more serious injuries!! I have always thought Locke was invincible...I still do but maybe now only 95% invincible. The picture above shows him the night it happened. We couldn't get his shirt off, in fear of bumping his arm, it was tender. So he slept in this shirt I think for 2 days. I got out the seam ripper the 2nd night, but Locke wanted to try again to remove it. I think he doesn't know about my mad sewing skills, I really could have returned his shirt to it's original condition! Since the accident. Locke has made his own sandwiches with a little team work opening jars, upon his request. He has changed Rocco's diaper unbenounced to me, and has insisted that he carry Rocco in his carseat while in public. He really is not milking this injury at all!! But I've told him to take it easy. Recovering from reconstructive surgery will only prolong his disability and might even take him out of the archery hunt come December if he doesn't let his wrist heal! Really really Love! We are extremely fortunate that in the midst of this misfortunate event Locke kept his hands inside the bike handlebars, and that he was standing up, and mid-way through a pedal stroke, if not we think he would have had more 'boo boo's' and not have had a perfect break. (He couldn't have broken his wrist any more perfect, said the hand surgeon.) Thanks Locke for still being invincible! Hoping the percentage stays high for a long time!!

Pledge of Allegiance (check)

2010-09-16T23:09:00.000-07:00

Learning just got more fun! Armanie is reciting things like crazy. Watch this one...She recites it often when she washes her hands.

Rocco's first Hike

2010-09-06T21:52:00.000-07:00

Beautiful day to Hike up American Fork Canyon. Locke's Uncle's family was in town and invited us to Timpanogas Caves. We couldn't resist a chance to hike. Thank you YAYA for spending time with Armanie. She wouldn't have made and I don't think Locke or my legs would have either if she came as we would have HAD to carry her

Rocco and I climbed this mile long paved trail. Good practice for the hike to the top of Mount Timpanogas (Locke and I will be doing this one without children).

The caves were great. A lot to see and a few tight spots. Rocco did great! Kept me warm it was probably 50 degrees in the caves.

Overall it was a great Labor Day. It was great to have so much family in town!! Rather to live close to so much family.

Pictures from Rocco's Blessing

2010-09-05T21:06:00.000-07:00

A little bit about Rocco.

Sweet is the only word to describe him. He does melt all of us. When I look into his eyes I'm recommitted to be the mother who does all the right things for the right reasons. I have more energy to teach, guide, nurture. I'm better because of my family.

Now for some silly pictures on the day Rocco was blessed.

L-R Heather, Alicia, and Me with spouses

MP YW, isn't he cute!

Thanks again for the 'modest outfit' :)

cousins

We made it!

2010-08-29T23:25:00.000-07:00

(Hi Pop!!)

We are finally settled in our new home in Provo!

(Armanie showing us where Utah is at on the map)

The lil' ones are adjusting fabulously. I couldn't have asked for a smoother move/transition into this next phase of our lives.

Some monumental things happened this last 2 weeks. Starters, Rocco is sleeping through the night 5 out of 7 nights. And Armanie is well on her way to becoming POTTY TRAINED. Huge for us! Tonight is her first night in underwear. I may have set myself up for some laundry tomorrow but it seems like whenever we put her in diapers she neither tells us she needs to go and does not use the toilet all together. But the exact opposite when left in underwear. So in hopes to solidify this 'done with diapers' period we've stopped her cold turkey and put under roos on. I'll let you know how it goes.

Rocco is no longer a newborn... According to the fish scale he's weighing about 13.5 pounds.

(one month old picture)

(2 months)

He laughs

smiles and watches his sister with joy. They love love love each! Every morning Armanie wakes and the first question is, Where's Rocco. Yesterday she tried to nurse him. Unbeknownst to her nursing means that babies latch on. (I'm laughing as I write this) Bare chested Armanie was very surprised at Rocco's amazing suction. She hasn't tried to feed him since. I caught this on video but I'll save that for her first date.

This water park down the street from us is her new favorite place. Mainly because of this huge slide! I'm very surprised that she enjoys it as much as she does considering just 4 months ago she wouldn't step foot near something that moved (i.e. snoopy land at Great America. "I no like rides") Now this little girl will climb bravely up 60 stairs and leap into Dad's arms and ride down a water slide with a few yells of excitement.

I've got to make or buy a shade for this

little girl, but this will do for now. She did this by herself by the way

Mushrooms

2010-07-10T01:21:00.001-07:00

2010-07-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry Armanie and Rocco, I've given you my

killer ability to scowl (sp?)

A&B dudes

Armanie having 'baby' withdrawls.

That's Rocco's hat and pacifier

do you think his arms 'fall asleep'?

Wisdom Gone

2010-07-03T21:31:00.001-07:00

Last week Locke got 4 wisdom teeth extracted. He did very well considering he could have milked me a lot more! On the way home he looked great, I talked he nodded or grunted appropriately to my questions and seemed with it. We got home and all of my PTA education came into use. I assisted my heavily sedated husband into the house. He definitely walked faster than his head or legs could carry regardless of how much I tried to hold him back. Upon reaching the door his color dropped to a lime green dull look with sweat forming on his brow. "I don't feel well, I think i'm going to pass......" Locke made a 'gradual descent' to the front entry of our apartment, where he laid for a good 5 minutes, head under a pillow and legs elevated. Bless his heart he tried his hardest not to fall completely limp. When he came to the first words out of his mouth were, 'Is the game (World Cup game Spain vs. Portugal) on the computer?'

Hard to see but the laptop is propped up on

the laundry basket, tilted just right so he doesn't

have to strain, and I put pillows under his knees.

That was the extent of subservience.

Check out that jaw strap!!

Rocco at 2 weeks.

2010-06-25T21:58:00.000-07:00

We miss you Armanie!

Come home soon!!

we have to be quick with the camera to get this one!!

ok children keep your hands to your self...

literally seconds later! a royal rumble!

2010-06-21T16:01:00.000-07:00

The men in my life

Hey buddy this chair isn't big enough for the

both of us.... but we can try. Just scoot over a little

Rocco! :)

2010-06-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

First the beard now a mohawk?? We'll see what he does by the end of his paternity leave!

Glad you are home, love.

(ps. he's hair is now all the same length :) )

Although he would make a pretty mean looking punk rocker

He's not even 2 weeks and he's already

plumping up!

There is a sibling resemblance

but it will be interesting to see what this little one

looks like in a few months!

Grandma & Pa are HERE!!

2010-06-19T09:13:00.000-07:00

We love it when grandparents come!

Partially because we all are content holding and being held!

Armanie made Rocco a puzzle soup. She said he "loves it"

They really are the best of friends!

Quiet time has be renamed to Disaster Time

But I don't mind. She plays contently. Usually she doesn't

fall asleep but today was exhausted and tucked herself into bed.

2010-06-13T13:04:00.000-07:00

Armanie came to visit Rocco and I on Friday and was so excited to see her new "baby". I was really excited to have her try the hospital 'rabbit' ice. We must have had 7-8 cups of ice together. I retained water and she filled 3 diapers :)

Learning how to tickle our brother

is "so much fun"

Our first experience with an over protective sister. Nurse Sally had to get permission from the 'big sister' before she could touch her brother. Armanie got her first lessons is post natal care, and took our temperatures and listened to her heart beat. She thought it was pretty neat and was best friends with Sally when we left.

Wonderfully Early

2010-06-13T12:18:00.001-07:00

What we've been waiting for arrived Thursday! A sweet little BOY!! *THANKS SARA FOR NOT TELLING ME* in my moment of weakness

Rocco Rainier came Thursday at 4:30pm. Weighed 7.10 and was 19.5 in. long. We are all in love with him! More pictures to come. I'm feeling great! Was able to have a successful VBAC, without medication. An experience to be recounted in another post.

First outing: Burgess park.

I am a child of God

2010-06-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Since Armanie has been able to talk and sing we've started to sing a new song each week. We are currently learning the primary songs, these are children's songs that focus on principles of Christ's gospel. This week it's 'I am a child of God' This is one of my Mama's favorite songs. I thought it would be a hard one for A to learn but here she is singing it. She's even teaching the neighborhood children. :) Makes me smile that she's learning through this song the reason why families are so important; to learn of God and return to Him as a family.

Lyrics:

I'm a child of God and He has sent me here, has given me an earthly home with parents kind and dear. Lead me, guide me, walk beside me, help me find the way. Teach me all that I must do to live with Him someday.

This evening we were at Costco and I asked her if she was a child of God... She said, NO! I'm a girl, Mom. She later said, yeah Mom I'm a child of God.

(Dad, could you invite Mama over to see this one? I don't know if I'll get another chance to record it in it's entirety, thanks!)

Visitors welcome

2010-06-07T13:37:00.001-07:00

Memorial weekend we had Yaya come to visit.

If you would like the same excitement from this

2 year old.... come and visit!

Honey and Grandpa we are excited to see you soon!!

Were too busy to take any other pictures! :)

Things she says lately

2010-05-15T22:08:00.000-07:00

This post is so I remember to write it down in Armanie's journal. Read if you like. *No PICTURES* Trying to get A. to drink more water instead of juice or milk. "If you drink the rest of your water you can have some milk." She drinks, "No lemon curd, Mom. No lemon curd." I forgot Locke put some lemon juice in her water. Funny that she said lemon curd, she made some a few nights earlier. "Dad I made a big Mess!" "Mom I went stinky in my underwear." "Good job, Mom for turning on the light" "Good job, Mom for washing my dresses and underwear good job " Encouraging her to go number 2.... grunts and says, "too big. Too big" Crying at bed time. Locke goes in to her room and says why are you crying? "I want to see my Mother." "Mom, I want to come wiss you. I'm going to YW's, I'll be back. Dad wants to play a game with you..... Okay, Bye MOM! A loud salutation and runs off to find her Dad. Mom i want to listen to ankie doodle. I want to listen loud, Mom. Mom, i want to watch a movie" with her head lowered and eyes looking up, with a hopeful expression that if she says it in a sweet enough voice she can watch one. "I wake up."

Things the little girl learns from Books!

2010-04-26T21:24:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly Armanie can sit through this

book several times at a bathroom break.

This evening she learned about money.

Dialogue:

A: I want Money

M: How does the boy in the story get money?

A: He eats the apples. Mommy you have money?

M: Mommy has money.

A: Holy Moley

M: Armanie, Are you a girl or a boy?

A: I'm a a a (pause) a girl, Mom.

M: Do you want a brother or a sister?

A: I want a boy sister.

M: Laughing.

Trying to get Armanie to stay in her bed and not get out, Locke asks her,

Armanie do you want to sleep in the big girl bed or the crib (pack and play)

A: I want to sleep in the crib. The baby sleep in that bed (pointing to her toddler bed.

Sure enough once in the pack and play she fell asleep.

Only after she had some toast!

30 minutes after Locke put her down she starts to

say, Mom, mommy, Mom, mommy (in a progressively louder voice) I hungry.

I go in and give her some water. She drinks quite a bit.

A: Mommy I'm hungry.

M: What would you like to eat?

A: An apple.

M:We don't have any more apples.

A: We have apple juice....

M: Yes we have apple juice but you can drink some tomorrow.

A:I want toast.

I gave her toast, because usually when she says she's hungry she really is and will go to bed right after she eats. And she did. Just a little sample but I wish I could have a tape recorder present all the times she says things that are so witty. She's not even two.six yet, but she is grasping concepts so quickly! I'm amazed and further excited to teach her so much. We talked about the rain today and she's starting to say WHY. Which I love because it's not the annoying why mom, answer given then the why mom comes again. It seems like she actually internalizes this stuff and say things based on what I said. Like I said Armanie we need to pick up these toys because the rain is coming soon.

Why rain mom?

I'm taking this as a moment to tell her how rain forms

She says oh, rain gets my toys wet.

One more thing I heard her say today.

Locke asks her how her day was, and she replies, "It was WONDERFUL, Dad!

Wonderful was said in an exuberant voice.

Gute Nacht my sweet daughter.

(Armanie's favorite evening salutation. Locke are you teaching her German or are the neighbors?)

2010-04-26T15:08:00.000-07:00

This babe might be a big eater

Babe at 32 weeks

2010-04-26T13:54:00.001-07:00

Happy chunky face!

10 days of Growth

2010-04-24T09:06:00.000-07:00

It just might happen huh?!!!

2010-04-24T08:49:00.001-07:00

Life of a mother helping her daughter potty train can be something of the mundane. For the past 2 weeks plus, we've been setting timers, asking, encouraging, incentiv-i-zing, and pleading Armanie to put her stinkies and tinkles in the toilet. And all of a sudden yesterday she wakes up at 7:55, and 30 minutes later says, "I go poop" and skips off to the bathroom, stands on her stool and takes her pants and diaper off, and takes care of business!! Then this morning around the same time she says, "I go put stinkies in the toilet"!!!! Hops off to the toilet. This girl knows!!! I thought it would not happen before her sibling came! Locke and I were chatting before we went to bed this week and both of us were worried that we would be buying diapers and cleaning a pair of 2 buns for another year! We can see the light at the end of the tunnel! I think more underwear are needed to reward this little potty using girl!

The start of something hairy

2010-04-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

In the past Locke has styled his facial hair in various ways.

The high school chin cover

The "how did I miss that strip" shave

The lumberjack

and the Stunning fiance goatee

Now for the next few weeks we'll see

just how much he can grow! This is a picture of the first 5 days of his "FULL BEARD" Armanie and I think it's very Manly!!

He'll not be doing a wrap around his neck. I just haven't had time to trim is hair line.

Body paint

31 weeks

2010-04-18T21:08:00.000-07:00

First of Many nights at Great America! We really had to hype this "snail race" ride up so she would even let me stand in line with her to get on. Needless to say she likes to watch instead of ride.

This was the main reason why we came. So she could see Snoopy! But she'll have to wait for another trip to see the real SNOOPY. She gave this statue good loves, but we think she picked up foot and mouth disease UNFORTUNATELY.

Don't let this picture fool you...she was really apprehensive to ride.

I like to call this her nature cafe, located at church. She stands behind this hedge and asks us if we want food.

I thought I was only gone for a few minutes!

Date Night at the IMAX movie. We have Fabulous neighbors who come to our home while Armanie sleeps, which allows Locke and I some time to get away! (We return the favor, its a fabulous set up) Locke and I saw "how to train your dragon" in 3D. It was so much fun. We stayed out until 12:30 and neither of us fell asleep! I was surprised because Locke has been working horrendous hours lately.

Might have to start piano lessons soon :)

How do you eat your PB & J?

Meet Rosie the cat. Armanie loves her!

We think she likes us too. Armanie takes her on walks and looks for her when we go outside. Rosie will actually cross the street and come up our driveway when she hears Armanie.

Okay not the same thing. But my heart did skip a beat when I saw this on my way to the potty late at night! How did she get that much hair under the door??

I felt even more horrible because I needed a lot of room to even get to her, with my big belly and all. She had some carpet prints on her face but she went back to sleep quickly.

2010-04-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

She has graduated. and is doing fabulous

She says cribs are for babies, Mom

'hot cross buns' was a song i had to pass off for

piano. I despied it!! Funny how things come back

around. I love it now! Thanks A.

just pictures, explanations may or may Not come later, ENJOY!!

2010-03-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

A couple of baby pictures at 27 weeks

2010-03-15T23:15:00.000-07:00

What!

2010-03-10T22:33:00.000-08:00

Evenings when Locke is working until the wee hours of the night Armanie and I enjoy Mac and Cheese... The noodles were cooked and I put the cheese packet in, then the butter and was retrieving the milk from the refrigerator and when I turned around Armanie had peeled the paper back from the stick of butter and took a big bite out of it!!! She probably could see confusion in my eyes and in a reassuring tone said, YUM mom mmmmm then licked her buttery lips.