David and Jodee with a little Grant thrown in there

Lil' Red...RIP

2012-01-18T14:20:00.000-06:00

I've never been a big dog lover, sure they keep ya company and are loyal friends but I've got my reasons. I guess I never really felt the need to have a loyal dog that was excited when I got home, that's because I had my "little red car". Yep that beauty has stood by my side (well more so David's the last few years) and has been through thick and thin with us. She wasn't the most practical snow car but that never stopped her from attempting to be a "big kid" on the roads. She drove me to Idaho for my first college experience, drove David and I down to Arizona to start our new life together. She hauled us all over the Utah valley, made many many trips to Colorado and one massive trip to Wisconsin. Quite the traveler that lil' red car. Sure she's given us a scare here and there but boy she's a fighter and would never let us down. However one very sad day she just couldn't keep up with the demand and decided that driving in reverse was too much for her fraile body. She tries her hardest and has good days and bad, we knew it was time for her to get some extra love and care and handed the keys to a new owner last week. Suprizingly I didn't shed one tear, we will always remember lil' red. Please feel free to express loving memories if needed.

2012???

2012-01-08T17:57:00.000-06:00

Boy I have been slackin' on the blog lately, I can't promise it will get any better either! The other day David and I were talking about what a whirl wind of a year 2011 was. So many things were up in the air and although it was unpredictable at times it was mainly just exciting. All three of us were able to accomplish major goals this year.

David completed his first semester of grad school and was offered a summer internship with PetSmart in Phoenix. Yep, SUMMER in PHOENIX. What in the world am I going to do with my pale lil' boy?!?! Back to David-he had a busy first semester which included some traveling and lots of preparation for interviews. He had a few offers (Target, AT&T and Durham Brands) which made our decision with PetSmart kind of difficult but staying in the west sure sounds nice;) He was also a trooper for agreeing to move to a new place during finals too!

After about four interviews I was offered a personal training job at 24 Hour Fitness. I love it! I've met some really great people and I'm glad that I am able to use my degree/certification in a way to help others. I know I probably will not always be able to work so I'm grateful for this opportunity.

Grant has had quite the year-his speech has improved and his ability to quote "The Elf" and "Nacho Libre" is somewhat embarrassing! His biggest accomplish yet is the fact that he gave Cosmo the cougar a high five! We heard about it for a full week! I am here to announce that Cosmo came up to us at yesterday's game and had a bite of our popcorn. Looks like we will have another earful:)

Ok on to pictures.....
This is pretty much what Grant looked like the whole month of December.

The easiest way to tell if Grant is pleased with something is by this very expression. He had it on his first birthday when the cake came out, the night he saw Cosmo and obviously when he opened his new drill/hammer.

If only I had permanent entertainment for Grant like I do when family is around.

ALVIN!!!!

2011-11-02T22:27:00.001-05:00

October was by far the busiest month for us! David was out of twice which is always fun for him but sad for Grant and I, we made a few trips home to Colorado, I became an aunt for the third time in three months, and we attended a baptism and baby blessing. In not so good news, I had a miscarriage last Monday. Things are going really well though and we are grateful that we have Grant and that each day seems to get better. I've had some heart-to-hearts with Heavenly Father and I know that he is aware of me and my family and that's been a huge comfort during this confusing time. It's hard to trust him but even harder not to. Really I have a lot to be thankful for so I'll just leave it at that.

This was probably my favorite Halloween in a long time. We had a hard time coming up with a costume for Grant, he doesn't like to wear hats, doesn't like jackets or weird things hanging off his body. Ugh, can you imagine how feisty our girls will be?! We had a few ideas but we wanted something that he would actually be excited to wear...cue Alvin costume. It was perfect, cheap, easy, and he loved it! He caught on to the whole trick-or-treat thing pretty fast and was really polite and sweet saying "thank you" and "Happy Halloween" to everyone. That night he was eating his candy at olympic speed and had to be stopped! The next morning he came over to me and said "Mommy? Trick-or-treat? Ok mommy...shoes and socks!" then ran and put on his shoes. Uh, yea buddy like I'm going to take you trick-or-treating at 7:00 am on Nov 1.

We were able to do some festive things with family...pumpkins, halloween cookies, pumpkin farm.

Hope everyone had a fun and safe Halloween!

Oh boy!

2011-10-19T10:10:00.000-05:00

More like dough boy! I made these babies for my visiting teachees last night and my oh my they are rich and fabulous! When I told David about a the recipe he said he'd rather just have an oreo or a chocolate chip cookie. WHAT? Sometimes I don't even know who he is?!? Anyway that suggestion was quickly overruled and my beloved cookies were fresh out of the oven! Gotta love that picky-palate...I swear every kid wishes she was their mom. BTW these cookies are gigantic...and a little sticky to work with but I somehow persevered!

2 sticks softened butter

3/4 Cup packed light brown sugar

1 Cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 Tablespoon pure vanilla

3 1/2 Cups all purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

10 oz bag chocolate chips

1 bag Oreo Cookies, I used the double stuff

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a stand or electric mixer cream butter and sugars until well combined. Add in eggs and vanilla until well combined.

2. In a separate bowl mix the flour, salt and baking soda. Slowly add to wet ingredients along with chocolate chips until just combined. Using a cookie scoop take one scoop of cookie dough and place on top of an Oreo Cookie. Take another scoop of dough and place on bottom of Oreo Cookie. Seal edges together by pressing and cupping in hand until Oreo Cookie is enclosed with dough. Place onto a parchment or silpat lined baking sheet and bake cookies 9-13 minutes or until cookies are baked to your liking. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to cooling rack. Serve with a tall glass of milk, enjoy!

Makes about 2 dozen VERY LARGE Cookies

Pobo....

2011-10-06T22:47:00.000-05:00

I am going to safely assume that I am not the only one who has wonderful childhood memories boxed away....favorite board games, movies, Barbies, trolls etc. There have been numerous times I've pulled out my collections or watched movies with David only to discover that maybe they weren't as cool as I thought, or even worse I can't really describe to David how adorably cute my cat looked in little bonnets being pushed in the stroller. It's hard to relive the past.

Well I am here to say that being back in Provo has exceeded all expectations. Infact it's almost better this time because I'M NOT IN SCHOOL!!!! Don't get me wrong I really loved my classes and being on campus day after day but this whole "spouse thing" is a pretty sweet gig if you ask me! David actually prefers this to undergrad as well!

For example, I have a student ID just like the "real" students so I too can get discounts around Provo, sporting events and have access to the weight room. (btw when did they remodel that and what the heck took so long?) I love that I can walk around campus and not have to worry about printing things off for class or rushing around. And it seems like everyone vacations in Provo so it's nice to be able to go visit with old friends and not have to juggle school/work. Yesterday we met David for lunch and I took Grant through my old building and about started to cry when he touched his hand all along the hallway. It reminded me of Pres. Monson saying "when you touch the temple, the temple touches you." Ok I'm only half serious but I just had such a wonderful experience at BYU that I want Grant to recognize what a great place it really is. If you are jealous of my super awesome life, don't be! I'm basically living in a mailbox and eating beans and rice everyday....which would be fine if I was a missionary in Brazil but us "state-side member missionaries" prefer a little luxury every now and then;)

Granty pants loves the games, and mainly the fight song!

Carly was our little bud during the game and wanted to be in the picture too! I'm so glad she was there to play with Grant!

strenuous day of being carried up to the "Y"-take a break dude, you deserve it!

Obsession

2011-10-06T22:07:00.000-05:00

I would say someone enjoys stickers just a tad too much!

I hate playing catch up!

2011-08-25T07:34:00.000-05:00

Ok so let's see.....waaayyy back in July, we (and my awesome parents) packed up our apt in CO and the next day David loaded Grant up in the "big yellow truck" and headed for his parents. I went the opposite direction with my parents and flew to AZ for my niece's baptism. I didn't have my camera with me but Kaitlyn looked so pretty that day. It was nice to see my family and not have to chase Grant around the whole church and worry about sleep etc. It seemed like Grant had just as much fun without me. In fact when I opened the door to see him he started screaming "NNOOOO" and ran in the other room. Why thank you Grant, I appreciate that! (once he saw me holding the new little baby cousin he quickly remembered that I was HIS mama and nobody else better sit on my lap!)

We stayed a few days in Craig and snuggled up with my new handsome little nephew, then drove to Provo and saw my cute niece up in SLC...then drove back to Craig THAT NIGHT! My dad was such a huge help to come drive/unload/clean etc. We relaxed in Craig, did some fishing, helped finishing projects around the house, oh and Grant pretty much ran into every parked car on the street. The poor kid was terribly sleep deprived, pair that with being attacked by mosquitoes and having swollen eyes, yep he looked like riff raff!

We've been in Provo about 2 weeks and things have been going great. David started orientation last week and can already tell that he is going to have a lot of fun. It's nice to be back in Provo and we feel very blessed with the major turn of events that have happened over the last 2 years. Yes things are still up in the air and scary but I'm glad that David and I can work together to complete this goal of his. I think we're all going to be very happy here.....especially once it cools off, since I don't have a/c!!! Grant lovingly refers to our ahem "new" apt as "Pobo House"-yep our teeny tiny apt contains ALL of Provo. We lovingly refer to Grant as the "Pobo hobo" since that's what he looks like most days;)

Things have been pretty busy and school hasn't even started yet! The Spouse Association....I suppose you could call it the 'First Wives Club' has done some fun events and we've met some really great people. It's been nice to have family/old friends around and a handful of WI friends to count on. Yes I think we are going to love it here!

I should be packing.....

2011-07-27T10:29:00.000-05:00

We're loading up the moving truck ToMoRrOw so why in the world am I blogging? Because I hate packing and this just seems so much more important right now:)

Can you believe it's the LAST week of July? Seriously 2011 where oh where have you gone?!?! We've had a fun summer-lots of trips to the zoo, many days at the pool, parks parks parks, playdates etc. I'm sad summer is coming to an end.

In June Grant and I spent a few days in Craig while my sister was in town. We crammed as much in as we could-hikes, riding horses, fishing, swimming....we love our families!

A few weeks ago we visited Molly and Juergen in Colorado Springs and had a great time. We spent a couple hours at Garden of the Gods and Grant of course loved running and climbing on everything!

Red Rocks in Morrison

I'm happy that we were able to get out and enjoy some of the beautiful Colorado scenery this summer!

minor detail.....

2011-07-24T23:26:00.000-05:00

Oh did I fail to mention we're moving??? THIS WEEK!!!! Yep, the rumors are true-we are Provo bound and super excited! We've loved being back in Colorado but Utah does have a Bajio so this will work out just fine!

Last fall David decided to start studying for the GMAT to get into grad school. After hours and hours of studying he was accepted to BYU and Texas A&M both starting fall 2011. Well what can I say we love our COUGARS! It's nice going back to a familiar place. We're lucky to have family and friends it the area that will help make the transition easier.

Grant and I are trying to enjoy our time with David since we know he will pretty much just be a roommate the next two years! Yes the unknown is scary and yes it's hard to leave a job in this economy but we're excited and feel good about our decision. I'm really proud of David and all the hard work he has done just to prepare for school, I know he'll do great! Wish us luck:)

Granty pants

2011-07-22T22:16:00.000-05:00

I feel like this blog is all about Grant but I seem to forget to really write down all the cute things he does. His vocabulary is really starting to take off and I love it! It's funny to hear his little voice trying to say new words. Our favorite thing is when he says "oh cool, so cool" and "happy birthday" especially over our dinner.

He is in a really fun stage right now, likes to share, clean up his toys (I know-lucky mama!) help cook, clean, fix things. He loves to be outside exploring. This week we've pretty much worn the stroller tires out-all day I hear "wak...outsie.....wak...." yep we've gone on like a bazillion walks together. I normally love walks but it's been so stinkin' hot (and humid for CO) out I feel like we're inside a dishwasher for hours and hours! When it's time to come back inside he just whines and whines until I take him back out. I swear he's part dog...speaking of dogs he will come up and sniff us like one. Weird? Funny? Cute? Yes, yes, yes!

He still is a great napper and willingly sits down and folds his arms for bedtime prayers. It's as if he knows he is going to bed so he turns on the charm so we will want to play with him longer....doesn't really fool us though!

He still enjoys playing/watching Thomas and playing with his cars. He likes doing puzzles, especially his numbers puzzle. This kid is a number/letter fool! So weird-he'd rather just look at the alphabet or a bunch of numbers than read the actual book. He knows almost all of the alphabet and I never get sick of listening to him point out letters to me.

(I know this picture is blurry but I think it's oh so funny. The kid hates to wear hats but he will wear this one of David's all day.)
He prefers bananas, yogurt, grapes, peeled carrots or peas but eats pretty much anything which is so nice for me! Oh and it's basically WWIII to brush his teeth so I guess I'm glad he doesn't want too much sugar all day!

Ernie the hernia is still hanging around and Grant is pretty darn happy that it's warm enough to wear non-zip jammies so he has 24/7 access to him!

I feel lucky to know he is mine! What a fun blessing!

300th post?

2011-07-18T15:21:00.001-05:00

That's it? It feels like I always have something to say! I would write 300 things about myself but I think the majority of them would involve food and that might be a little embarrassing to myself and family!

1. I am currently obsessed with the show "My name is Earl" and love laughing and laughing with David about it. Just try to watch a full episode and not laugh-I dare you.
2. I could easily become a vegetarian....or get used to having someone cook my meat for me. Yeah let's go with that option. It's great for eating but not for touching and preparing...ew barf! Poor David is stuck with one to many crock pot meals or pasta because of this.
3. I like to burn fall scented candles year round-apple, pear, spice
4. Contrary to my candle collection I am a summer baby through and through...thank you Colorado and the 360+ sunny days!
5. I am a sucker for white walls and accessories and will continue to love them even after this "white decorating" phase is over.
6. I don't think vanilla should be viewed as ice-cream...it's a side for cryin' out loud! You put it with your cake, brownie, pie. I can't comprehend why someone would eat just vanilla when there are millions of options to pair it/top it with or heck even replace it with!
7. I still have my car from high school, that baby refuses give up! Oh and somebody tried to steal stuff from it the other day. Ha, joke is on them, all I have are some old receipts and leaves on the floor!
8. I daydream about a new kitchen table and I am fairly certain that would eliminate 93% of all my problems....hum....maybe not.
9. I'm terrified of being called as "Stake Camp Director".
10. My favorite time of day is right before bed when we peek in at our little sleeping Grant....wait I take that back, my favorite part is WHEN we put HIM to bed! Is it just me or do the hours pass like days after dinner?
11. I think I could beat Forrest Gump in a walking competition.
12. I have never seen any Star Wars movies and believe it or not I am still functioning.
13. Thanks to David I now buy gold toe socks in the boys department-trust me they are the best!
14. When my sister and I were younger we used to pretend our names were "Jessica", "Julie" or "Ashley". When we would be shopping in Denver or Grand Junction we would call out for each other and even order food and request that it be for "Jennifer" or whatever. We are ssooo cool.
15. I do a pretty darn good impression of a cat hacking on a hair ball!
16. I really enjoy going to the dentist.
17. I love to hide in the house like a 5 yr old and jump out and scare David and Grant. Too bad I only have like 3 doors to choose from!
18. Still feel like I'm "too young" or "trying too hard" when I wear high heels or lip stick.
19. I've crossed over and started wearing shorts with tennis shoes while at the zoo or other family outings! Eek! I'm STILL having issues with my shins from like a year ago and certain shoes just feel better, laugh it up you haters!
20. For all you Craigites I used to want to grow up and work at "Gumballs" candy store in Grand Junction.
21. I went a whole year at college with staples in my pants as a hemline. Pathetic? It's not THAT hard to sew or bring them to mom!
22. I really want Lasik surgery so I can go swimming, roll over and look at the clock, fall asleep during a movie, ya know just be lazy like. Anyone want to spot me the moolah?
23. I once bottle fed a cow (the smell of that milk will forever be in my nostrils) that I affectionately named "Eight ball".
24. I like meeting new people and learning about them.
25. I could eat non-microwave popcorn everyday.
26. I'm confused with the whole obsession with being "green"-I mean didn't we learn this stuff in like 1st grade? Why the sudden trend? And why does everyone feel the need to announce that they are green? Aren't most of us anyway?!?! Am I the only one who was taught to turn the lights off, open the windows in the summer, eat from the garden, line the trash can with a plastic bag? Apparently!
27. I love dancing to Rihanna....of course just in my house and when I play v-ball with the ward!
28. I like to do crossword puzzles and play boggle with David.
29. I wish the tv shows "Just the 10 of us" and "Clarissa Explains it All" were still on. I can't even get them on Netflix. Boo.
30. I get slightly bummed when birthday cakes are not chocolate.

Marathon and on and on and on....

2011-06-20T16:23:00.000-05:00

What do Forrest Gump (with leg braces), the Tinman and myself after a race all have in common? We walk with straight legs and look completely ridiculous.

A couple weeks ago I ran my second marathon. I had a fun time training and I was excited to be able to run down Provo canyon again....one minor detail....I basically live in KS and had ZERO hill training. I didn't do as well as I was hoping but I did better than expected, considering the hills and taking 3 weeks off from injuries. There were a lot of "tender mercies" if you will, during the race.

#1. I met up with a friend from Highlands Ranch at the start line. How in the world we found each other is beyond me-there were hundreds of runners! We ran the first 13 together and she was awesome at keeping my mind off running. She left me in the dust at mile 14 and I must have left my motivation at that aid station as well:(

#2. The weather was beautiful

#3. My body (besides my poor lil' knees) held up for the most part and allowed me to run the whole time...although the professional pictures look more like a shuffle rather than a run!

#4. Just as I was about to give up and start walking a little girl on the side of the road stuck her hand out for me to "high five" and that was the biggest boost I could have had. I know she really didn't believe in me but I felt like she did!

It was fun to have my family there and to ride up the canyon and start the race with my brother. We also saw the Pothiers in the hotel parking lot which was way random but fun! And lastly, I can't write about a race and not mention David. He's been picking up the slack for me as a mom and I couldn't have completed this without his support and encouragement!

wee wee wee

2011-06-08T16:05:00.001-05:00

Well let's see....we went to Craig (for like the millionth time) over Memorial Day weekend. Grant had fun playing with the dog, seeing family, getting dirty etc. etc. We have some friends who own pigs, chickens, geese...basically anything smelly. We thought Grant would love visiting the new baby pigs so we took him out there. He ended up being interested in the rushing river by their house instead. Why must he always be so curious in the exact thing that we do NOT want him to be interested in? I swear if we were showing him the river instead he would run right over to the piglets! It was still fun to do something different.

It's been so nice and sunny lately yet I feel like we've been inside a lot. Why? I have no idea-maybe it's because Grant blisters up at the word "sun"-actually it's because he'd stay outside all day long if I'd let him and since we don't have a backyard I don't want to be one of those creepy park people. *Remember-if I want him to play at the park that pretty much guarantees that he will play in the poopy sandbox (which btw why are those still around???) ,the gutter or with busted glass or something.* What have we been doing instead? Well Grant helped open the milk and then used the stringy thing to use as glasses and then a lovely headband. Wow talk about resourceful!

Child labor laws?

Boy do I love this kid.

little lovelies-krazy coupon lady

2011-06-07T14:19:00.000-05:00

Well, I may not be totally extreme in my coupon savings but I've been known to save a buck or two! Thanks to my friend Teri I learned about this awesome website and have been searching for great deals everyday. (wow that sounds like I am starring in an infomercial for diet pills or something...."I learned about this awesome____")

www.thekrazycouponlady.com

I still struggle with coupons-I'm not wild about a lot of the food that is cheap, no offense but I'm not going to stock my kitchen with canned chili and hot pockets. This website has shown me that there are different options out there besides the frito pie recipes that we all seem to save money on! Apparently my subconscious is telling me that we're a dirty family because most of my purchases are soap, deodorant and toothpaste! If a crisis were to happen we may not have food but we'll have lots of shampoo:)

picture overload....

2011-05-05T19:08:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago Grant woke up, let us change him, got in the car without a fight, sat like a rag doll in the cart while I went to not one but TWO grocery stores, didn't whine for a treat or movie etc. We were convinced that he was sick. We even babied him all day because he was "sick". Then he acted like that the next day, then the next and the next! WHAT??? We call this the "2 yr old Billy Grant" and we gladly welcome him to stay....which will be short lived now that I wrote all this. Some things about my favorite little boy-

-REALLY into trains right now, every moving thing says "choo choo", he'll even get out the batteries and screwdriver to fix the broken toy trains

-he gets this shy little look when he's around people and tries to not smile or look them in the eye

-loves jumping on our bed all day long

-he'll scratch his "whiskers" and say "hummm" when you ask him a question

-eats insane amounts of grapes and bananas-basically any and all fruit

-oh and have you met Ernie? This is Grant's hernia named Ernie. They are bff's, Ernie is always there for Grant and helps him through difficult tasks such as trying new foods, meeting new people etc. He is also a good companion when Grant is excited, happy, nervous, scared. We tease about Grant going on dates or taking the SAT and Ernie "talking him through it" oh what will we do when he has to be removed? Maybe there is an "Ernie patch" or something.

We were on our way to Provo for David's sister/bro in-law's graduations. We stopped at Grandma/pa Ence's and celebrated Grant's b-day. He blew out the candle and started eating as we were singing to him. What can I say-this kid knows what he wants! He may be like his daddy in every other way but this kid can pound the ice-cream like his mama!

Do I look like a proud parent or what? This picture totally cracks me up, I took a picture for another family and they insisted they take one of the three of us.

Grant sat there and cheered and clapped for every person in Laurel's graduating class. What a polite little boy.

We were lucky enough to be with family on his b-day, we went to a park and let him just run around with his new toys...and of course eat more cake! We love you baby Grant!!!

could this get any better?

2011-04-26T17:26:00.000-05:00

The only thing that would make this picture better is if the cat was in costume....possibly a little pink bonnet or biker jacket...maybe large bunny ears while sitting in a basket would be more appropriate for the Easter holiday.

albinos in arizona

2011-04-05T22:18:00.000-05:00

Grant and I visited my sister's family in AZ for "Spring Break"...you know since Grant has been so busy lately and I figured he could use a few days to just relax. My parents were there too and we had a great time. Poor Grant had allergies the whole time. You know how parents never think their kids are ugly? Well...first time for everything! Man he looked rough! He had a blast playing with his cousins and I am SO grateful that they put up with him:)

I told a few friends that Grant better have enjoyed his time on a plane because I sure as heck am not flying with him ever again. He did good on the way there but the flight back....YIKES! I gave him some meds for his allergies....and yes I do mean allergies not "allergies". I thought they'd wipe him out but oh silly Jodee that would be too easy. Nope, they did the exact opposite. He was literally climbing on my head while I was smashed up against the window. Yes the same kid who won't touch me with a 10 ft pole now just wants to climb and crawl and slobber all over me for two hours! I've never been so excited to see David!

Aren't they cute together?

phew!

2011-03-10T21:46:00.000-06:00

Hum...where to begin??? A few months ago I decided to start studying to become a Personal Trainer. I know I know....laugh it up. I can barely bust out a push up and I eat insane amounts of ice-cream. Lucky for me I have an extremely supportive family (especially David) that pushed me to follow this dream. Cheesy? Sure, but I'm just being honest! I actually had a really fun time studying for the exam but I am oh so excited to be able to just focus on Grant again-poor kid has been living off stepped on Cheerios and apples! To celebrate that I passed we went out as a family, then picked up some Pinkberry. Grant somehow found a balloon at the book store, now that I write this I realize we flat out stole that...oops.

Grant must know that I am done studying because he has been super sweet and fun, lots of hugs and kisses. Today I was lying on the couch (so sue me...I was out late and up early!) and he climbed right up, scooted over a little and started stroking my head and twirling his little fingers through my hair. I should be worried but instead I just think it's cute. I promise I only drank water this night, my eyes seem to tell a different story....I just loved that Grant finally sat on my lap for more than 2 seconds!

random note: We had a "Mardi Gras Parade" in our home. Yep, same stolen balloon.

This little boy had way too much fun, I pray he never goes to a real Mardi Gras Parade or we'll be in trouble! See what I mean.....

DL+JE

2011-02-25T17:44:00.003-06:00

I remember thinking that being married would mean just going on lots and LOTS of really fun dates ALL THE TIME. We could go out to eat whenever we wanted and of course money would never be an issue. I'd wear the most gorgeous clothes and we'd drive up in our swanky new car. We'd go to movies, concerts, overnight trips etc. We could stay out all night and not have to worry about cleaning our rooms hours before the date. Lucky for us we did do a lot of fun things when we were first married. Then came Grant. Dun dun dun.....just (kind of) kidding! He's pretty cute company (well for the first 10 minutes) and it sure beats paying for a babysitter. Hello cheapskate!

Last Sunday I stayed home with a boogered-nose Billy Grant and about 10 minutes after he fell asleep I got the most glorious phone call. David said that the YW were having a service night and offering free babysitting at the church. I was confused as to why he even called to ask if I wanted him to sign up. Life lesson #593 "When someone offers free babysitting in a safe, fun environment you automatically sign up."

All week I've been counting down the days.....and TGIF!!! (Remember when TGIF was the cool thing to watch? "All That" was my favorite) We're hitting up the movies, none of this "look into each other's eyes while talking over candlelight" mumbo jumbo. You bet I'm in it for the popcorn!

Guess what fancy outfit I'm wearing??? My one pair of jeans that doesn't have slime down the front and my tennis shoes. Yep I am officially a "Zoobie", all I need is to walk around campus with my Jamba Juice and head over to the bike rack! Seriously though, I'm having some major issues with my feet and the only thing that makes them happy are my running shoes. I've been trying to strengthen and stretch them but it looks like I might just have to enroll at BYU this upcoming semester instead!

15 minutes and counting.....hurry up and get here DLux!

lately....

2011-01-31T21:29:00.000-06:00

Well I did it! I am officially a mom....I chopped my hair off. Yep, about a foot or more. Don't worry it is leaps and bounds better than the 'Milwaukee hack job of 2007'. (As if paying $8.99 in a grocery store salon is hard to beat!) To solidify the fact that I am indeed a mom I wear it in a ponytail EVERY single day. Oh well, it's easy to fix and brush through etc.

Let's see....David had a birthday! Hooray! I started bawling because I didn't have nice gifts for him and he always spoils me silly. I'm sure that's just what he wanted for his b-day, an emotional wreck to deal with! I hope he had a fun day though, we went to Famous Dave's and I made some cupcakes for him, well I made them for his work but apparently once you are out of 3rd grade it's not cool to take things to work. Oh well, Happy Birthday David!

I'm training for a race in April and I do my long runs on Saturday. This weekend was quite the run. I came thisclose to being roadkill, I found a quarter, based on my time I am fairly certain my GU is a placebo, there was some shady business going on at the park....I did mysteriously start to feel more relaxed when I ran past there. Nevermind the fact that I thought purple heffalumps were chasing me, just kidding! I was also chased by a chihuahua, and yes I was terrified! After a few minutes of it following and yapping at me I planned my escape route. Either his legs got tired or his little penny sized lungs popped because I was free at last! A few miles later his hermano came after me-he was wearing a maroon scarf so I wasn't too scared.

I also started teaching aerobics at the church twice a week. Leotards unleashed! I am seriously motivated by these ladies. They lug their kids/snacks/toys/weights etc. and show up happy and ready-puts me to shame! I have realized that if I ever want Grant to cuddle up or play with me all I have to do is stand in front of a group of ladies and start doing jumping jacks. Seriously kid? He's lucky it's not garage sale season or else I might consider selling him for a buck!

Last week I went to Utah with my in-laws. My sil had her senior recital at BYU. She was amazing. Grant and I had a fun time with family and I feel so lucky that we have a great relationship. Cousin Jordan kept Grant entertained!

Isn't she gorgeous? Sorry fellas she's taken!

Speaking of how great of a family I have....they let me slip away for a girls day for a few hours! I love these gals!

Ok off to watch tv....

little lovelies-gapbody

2011-01-18T16:28:00.000-06:00

It's no secret that I miss college. I miss my BYU ward, I miss my apartment, I miss the Richard's Building, I miss eating pancakes with David on campus, I miss my classes (well my health classes), I miss looking at the "Y" and the Provo temple. You know what a really really miss though? My discount at Gap. I worked with the funniest people on the planet, snagged some new threads and occasionally folded clothes. Perfect job. I would say the majority of my work out clothes are from GapBody. They are so breathable, keep their shape, last forever etc. Sadly I have yet to purchase anything since I left the company.....any gappers out there that want to hire me for like 4 hours a week?

If you ever stumble across a "friends and family" deal I would highly recommend trying out their exercise gear-especially pants and hoodies. *forget paying top dollar for their sports bra and socks....hello Target*

little lovelies-midnight in moscow

2011-01-11T15:49:00.000-06:00

Did you know that Russians pronounce it "Moskva"? It's just as easy to say "Moskva" than it is "Moscow" silly Americans! Anyway call me a goth or whatever you'd like I'll be the first to admit that I LOVE dark nail polish. I absolutely love O.P.I's Midnight in Moscow. It's a deep purple polish that lasts and lasts. O.P.I. does a great job at having enough polish on the brush that you don't need to put on lots and lots of coats. Any other favorite dark polishes out there?

Typical Christmas Post

2011-01-05T15:56:00.000-06:00

I wouldn't be a true blogger if I didn't jump right on and blog about my wonderful, fabulous Christmas and New Year right? Well it was wonderful and fabulous. David and I had a relaxing time with our families and it was so nice to be with people that we love and that (hopefully) love us!

I must say, Grant did pretty darn good on the trip. He's been skipping out on naps lately, and while it is very annoying to have a booger nose kid attached to me all day, this whole "no nap" thing seemed to work out beautifully on vacation. I didn't have to worry about keeping everything quiet, and rushing back to get him down etc. Very easy! And lo and behold he likes naps again. A true (after Christmas) miracle!

He had a great time with his cousins and Dobby the dog. David and I were spoiled by all of Grant's loving aunts/uncles/grandparents. We hardly had to watch the kid, I could get used to that....hum....kind of defeats the point of having kids right?

We had a great time just playing with family, eating yummy food, sharing Christmas memories, listening to others talents and stories, shooting guns, playing with the dogs, and mainly just being together. We also tried to take care of my mom....she wanted to impress us by doing the splits, actually she fell on the floor and tore her hamstring. She didn't let that stop her from having fun though!

I'm really excited about 2011, I can feel that it's going to be a good year. Now that I wrote that I of course will be cursed. Watch my back!

We had a fun New Year's party with friends. The kids were all downstairs watching a movie while the adults were busy chatting and playing games. Next thing we know their is rice ALL over the basement. The kids we either a.) pretending someone was getting married b.) helping use up the food storage or c.) decided that lil' smokies and cookies were not a sufficient dinner. This was probably the only time I didn't envy someone with a good food storage supply!

atta boy

2010-12-22T14:57:00.000-06:00

Today's conversation with Grant:

me: grant do you want to go to kohl's?

grant: uh uh

me: do you want to go play with your legos?

grant : uh uh

me: do you want see daddy?

grant: uh uh

me: do you want to go to the pet store?

grant: uh uh

me: do you want to go to cafe rio?

grant: uh huh

I asked him a few more questions and he answered "uh uh" to all of them, once I asked about Cafe Rio again he sure perked up. So funny. It's really funny because we've only been like 3 times!

You know you're a redneck if....

2010-12-17T23:22:00.001-06:00

You spend your weekends (and often weeknights) visiting Bass Pro Shops. Yes it's true, that is our "go to" place when we have nothing else to do. I must say they have some pretty entertaining items. Am I really getting back to my Craig roots or what??? In all honesty though, their Christmas corner is amazing. It's packed with fun crafts and games for the kids and the Santa looks like he was born to fill this role. Apparently everyone in the greater Denver area heard about this little gem and decided to bring the WHOLE family there. We've tried to take Grant to see Santa (the kid hardly says a word so how's he going to tell Santa he wants-which btw I often wonder what he really does want....doesn't matter legos it is!) but the lines were atrocious!

Today was a new day. I was determined to get that little kid on that lap darn it. He was dressed with hair combed and all. I wanted to beat the rush so I just threw on a t-shirt and pulled my dirty hair into a greasy ponytail. When we got there I scoped out the line and decided I'd better pick up some snacks at the little booth or we'd both be toast by the end of this experience. With popcorn and almonds in hand (along with 2 coats, my purse, Grant and a coloring page) we headed to the North Pole. And waited. And waited. And whined (yes both of us) Does it ever seem like every other kid on the planet is on super duper good behavior at the exact same moment that your kid transformed into Taz? No? Oh, well it seems like that to me.

About an hour later we finally make it up to the jolly (albeit very old) man and surprise surprise Grant wants nothing to do with him. Not even two seconds into this Santa insists that I sit on his lap with Grant. Merry Christmas. Anyway the photo was less than stellar (and I was trying so hard not to laugh at the line of people staring at me. Seriously? You really think I requested to be a part of this picture?), Santa was peeking his tiny little head over Grant's confused expression and my typical "deer in headlights" grease bomb face. As I left I just kept thinking "Why oh why do parents torture themselves like this?" It's not like I just met Grant yesterday! On the brighter side Grant conked out in the car, the almonds were delicious and the picture was free....and will have a cozy spot in a box in the closet!

traditions

2010-12-07T16:47:00.000-06:00

What can I say I'm a sucker for family traditions. I especially love Christmas traditions. Growing up we would always go around with my parents taking pizzelles to friends and family. I'm grateful that we were able to be a part of showing kindness to others and letting them know we were thinking of them during this busy time of year. Every year we would celebrate Christmas with my mom's side of the family. There are only 7 grandkids so it was always easy to get together. We would attend a candlelight service at the Baptist church and then come home and have our family gift exchange. I know most families draw names for Christmas but one thing I loved about our tradition was that there was always a theme with the exchange. For example...one year we had to buy gifts that began with that persons name. We've had to buy gifts that correlate to a Christmas song or scripture. We've done hands and feet gifts or homemade gifts. I think it's always fun to be creative and to see what everyone brought to the exchange. I can't help but feel sad that David was never a part of this tradition....no it's not that he had to sit in the corner while we had the exchange, the year we got married my grandfather died and as a family we each decided to celebrate Christmas with our immediate family.

Last year Santa forgot to fill my stocking. I (sadly) put them back in storage when a little elf realized Santa forgot me. David didn't know where the stockings were and so he hung a diaper and filled it with treats- that was probably the first time I was excited to see what was in a diaper! I still have the diaper and we've decided to continue to hang it each year. I'm sure Grant will love explaining that one to his friends!

I'm finding that traditions just happen naturally. Grant always seems to want to turn on the lights to our little Christmas houses first thing in the morning, and point to Santa on the roof right before bed. We've been trying to read some form of Christmas story each night and I think it will help get us more in the Christmas spirit. I want to help my kid(s) understand the true meaning of Christmas and to give service and love to others, I'm hoping we can continue to donate and help wherever possible.

What fun traditions do you have? Favorite meals, songs, movies?

little lovelies-asics

2010-12-07T16:29:00.000-06:00

I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the greatest runner out there. I must say that these shoes have really helped though. I over pronate pretty bad and that made my knees pretty darn mad at me. I've been to a few running stores and they introduced me to these bad boys and I have yet to turn back. In fact I have 2 pairs of the exact same shoe. Go figure they are like the most expensive ones out there and of course they don't have a "generic" version. Boo. Oh and all my Denver friends did you see today's Groupon??? You bet I'll be asking Santa for another pair! Love me some Asics.

little lovelies-edamame

2010-11-23T16:02:00.000-06:00

Way back when, when I had cable (ah glorious cable) I used to watch Dr. Oz religiously...that deserves a little lovely of it's own. Dr. Oz raved about edamame and at that moment I realized that those little beans were my favorite part of my 'BD's Mongolian Grill' meal. Grant eats peas by the bowlful so I decided to pick up some of these babies and let me tell I can't control myself. I love them, they are super easy to prepare. I just throw a cup or so in a bowl and pop em' in the microwave for a minute or two and wah lah! I keep a bowl out on my counter for easy access. They're wonderful-high in protein, omega fatty acids, fiber blah blah blah healthy stuff. Yahoo for things made in China...or maybe they're Japanese...who knows the difference.

in case i forget

2010-11-22T22:20:00.000-06:00

I really do love Grant. I wasn't so sure about it last week, but if he continues to act like he has this week I suppose I have no other choice than to keep him. I'll be honest it's not super exciting to read about everyone else's kids but since this blog belongs to me I'm going to write about my little Grant. He has been extremely fun this week-which just means he's going to be a little Taz on our Thanksgiving trip!

I love going into his room and seeing him there "reading" his books or putting together a puzzle. He will also try things we are doing-blow his nose, planks, lunges, comb his hair, put on his shoes. It's crazy how "babies" just grow up right before your eyes.

He's really enjoying our nightly rock out sessions while we prepare dinner. Currently he is loving Michael Franti and ahem...Soulja Boy.....don't ask.

In the car I usually lead the music that we are listening to, yes I am cool like that. He usually claps along but lately he has been conducting the music as well. I love it!

I'm excited for all the Christmas lights to be up so we can drive around (and lead music) because I know Grant will love it. He already walks down the Christmas aisle at the store "oooh whoaaaa", we actually had to leave Wal-Mart because he was so overly excited.

He knows how to turn on the wii and get it to Netflix. It actually stumps me how he even knows how to do that. It's pretty funny though. He is also obsessed with 'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.' Obsessed is a understatement. Have you seen that movie? I'm starting to become obsessed as well....I need to get out more.

Speaking of tv he must be watching too much because he has started to give us kisses on the lips. I'm not necessarily opposed to them but I just never thought I'd be one of 'those families'. To quote Seinfeld..."not that there is anything wrong with that." It's pretty funny, I've tried to dodge them like you do when your great aunt tries to plant a wet one but the snotty-nosed little kid is pretty stubborn.

I'm sure no other mother has ever witness their children doing such cute things right?

Crazy? I think yes.

2010-11-09T19:40:00.001-06:00

Last week we went out to Utah for David's sister's wedding. It was beautiful and I loved seeing both my family and David's. I am one lucky girl to have such wonderful in-laws and that we were able to make it out and see everyone for a few days. Everything was really nice---well besides the fact that I didn't try on Grant's suit and he ended up looking more like Chris Farley as a Chippendale! I was pretty much the worst mom/daughter and basically had my parents watch Grant all night. When I was around him he was just hovering over the candy bar. Sheesh kid.

Is it just me or does it seem that EVERYONE lives in Utah? It's impossible to visit everyone.Luckily we were able to spend some time with some of my faves!

The wedding was on Friday and after the reception Grant acted like he had never been in a hotel or set foot on a bed and was WWIILLLLDDDD! I was running the Provo Halloween Half marathon Saturday morning and was needing to get some sleep. We finally kicked him into bed in the bathroom and got a little shut eye. A few hours later my alarm went off and all of us were up :( bummer...

I had been so excited for this race. It had been a few years since I ran down Provo canyon and it was perfect running weather. On the bus a few girls were talking about how crazy runners are. I have had people tell me I'm nuts for getting up so early to go for a run but I never really thought of it until that moment. Are runner's crazy? On my long bus trip up the canyon I had time to ponder this question. And yes runner's are in fact crazy.

As the race went on I was absolutely certain that runner's have lost all manners and normal thought processes. Let's explore the things that happen on race day.

-who in their right mind PAYS money (and sometimes a LOT) to get up in the wee hours and go running? sure you get a t-shirt but who really wants a 100% cotton shirt with a bunch of businesses on the back? this race shirt was actually pretty good i must say.

-lose toenails and inflict injury upon their body

-no need to wash hands after using the lovely porta-potties

-no biggie if porta-potties are unavailable....plenty of bushes to go around

-who cares if there are three big barrels of trash right by the water station....ditch the cups on the ground

-sweatshirt getting too hot? why not just toss it?

-no place to put your GU wrapper? again what's wrong with the ground?

I'll admit I did a handful of such actions but hey those precious seconds on the race clock are just that-precious! I ran better than expected but not as well as I could have. Oh well I had a great time. A lot of people dressed up in their Halloween gear. I didn't make a costume in time so I just wore my Michelle Tanner "You're in big trouble mister" t-shirt. I was able to see a handful of friends during the race and that was awesome. For sure a memorable race that I would love to do again sometime. BTW-this was the best picture we could muster....sadly I don't think a "before" race picture would have been much better!

who ya gonna call?

2010-11-05T16:01:00.000-05:00

Grant has bucketfuls of toys yet he just wants anything long and skinny-mop, broom, tree branch, wrapping paper. I don't think those chores are that fun but again I don't think throwing my food on the floor is fun either so whatever. Fun musical ball or dirty old mop? Hum tough call. A couple months ago we started plotting what Grant would be for Halloween, keeping in mind it must have a long, skinny attachment or Halloween would be a bust. Endless possibilities....a janitor, a chimney sweeper, blind man. We finally decided on a ghostbuster with a long vacuum hose to make sure no ghosts stood a chance.

We were out of town during our ward Halloween party so at the very last second we joined the Reunion ward party. 'Last second' as in we had to MAKE Grant's costume (and buy some parts) all in about 45 mins. It's kind of like a Monet-looks better from a distance or with the lights out. I loved watching David put it all together and even go the extra mile and get a little speaker for the theme song to play as Grant walked around. Too bad he refused to wear his backpack. He ended up looking more like a beige missionary!

Aw...Grant as a Ghostbuster and apparently I wanted to be a deer in headlights!

Still sporting my costume:) I know shame on us for not dressing up. I guess we could be the "investigators" Grant is teaching the discussions to!

18 months

2010-11-03T15:29:00.001-05:00

I'll admit I'm not the greatest mom. Most days I have no clue what I am doing. I remember reading all these parenting books (ok like 2....that's a lot for me though) and saying "oh my kid is definitely going to do____". The beauty of David and I waiting a while to have kids meant that we were the ultimate parents. We watched and decided what we were going to do and not do with our children. Hum....about 18 months ago I had a crying little thing stuck to my hip and all those suggestions we read flew right out the window. David and I decided that we would stand our ground once Grant turned 18 months. Well.....apparently I need a few more books to read. I can't be doing that bad- I mean I'm not on Oprah yet and the kid is still in one piece so that's a good sign right?

Last week I took him in for his shots and there again I did stuff I swore I would never do as a parent. Let him eat snacks to his little hearts content, crawl all over the chairs and myself as I filled out paperwork, run down the hall etc. Anyway here are the stats....drum roll....height-31.5 in (25%), head-48 cm(50%), and 22 lbs. (5%)

(who would ever 1.) take their ketchup face kid in public 2.) let their kid eat ketchup 3.)let their kid throw corn when there is clearly a sign that says to not throw it. Ugh some people these days. Maybe I should let them borrow my parenting books.)

Grant doesn't really talk much (must get that from me!!!!) but he understands most everything we say. He'll bring us stuff and try to tell us what it is. He likes to point a lot and say "uh uh uh oh". He loves anything with music and has pretty good rhythm. He's an awesome napper and loves the naptime routine we have. You can easily become friends with Grant by giving him gum. The Biggest Loser cast must have had an impact on him with all their hidden advertisements....if he starts requesting ziploc baggies I'll really be suspicious. He pretty much likes to eat anything except my homemade chicken pot pie, so basically anything that takes time to prepare he won't eat. I think meal times are my favorite because he almost always folds his arms, bows his head and sneaks little peeks up at us. It's fun to watch him be so sweet. I can't really think of anything that is different from other kids-I mean don't most 18 month olds like playing hide-n-seek and singing songs?

We go to play group most weeks and here is Grant in true fashion---playing off by himself. I have no idea what to do about this. If we are at a playground he just wants to walk around the grass. If we are by the grass he wants to climb on the trash can. I crave being around people so I just don't understand this. It's going to be a looong winter.

Can it be? Grant playing with a friend? I swear I didn't photoshop this in.

little lovelies-pottery barn

2010-10-26T17:55:00.000-05:00

Ah just saying "Pottery Barn" brings a smile to my face. Now I admit that I have a pretty bland decorating style but that shouldn't stop me from liking home decor right? I get giddy when I open the mail and find my FREE PB issue, I thumb through those pages at least fifty times before I give 'em the boot. I love the simplicity yet coziness of PB. I love the way they effortlessly decorate for each and every holiday. I love the big chunky white molding all over the place and the huge candles and seashells. I love love love the huge windows that display Christmas wreaths or cards. I've saved up some pennies and occasionally bought an item or two from PB, however my house never comes close to looking like that. Maybe it's the dvds sprawled all over the floor or the cheerio crumbs in the couch. One day, one day.

little lovelies-deceptively delicious

2010-10-12T13:31:00.000-05:00

David gave me this cookbook for Christmas a year or two ago and I love it! I'm not one for deceiving kids/adults into eating their veggies, I hope that Grant knows what certain foods are and that he will eat them because they are healthy and tasty etc. etc. With that being said I am one for including healthy food into dishes whenever possible. Here are a few of my favorite recipes from this book.

Blueberry Lemon Muffins (with squash)

* Nonstick cooking spray* 1/2 cup firmly packed light/dark brown sugar* 4 tbsp margarine, chilled* 1 cup lemon lowfat yogurt* 1 cup blueberries* 1/2 cup yellow squash puree* 1 egg* 2 tsp pure lemon extract* 1 tsp grated lemon zest* 2 cups all-purpose flour (1/4-1/2 from wheat flour)* 1 tsp baking powder* 1 tsp baking soda* 1/2 tsp salt

Directions

* Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or line with paper baking cups.
* In a large bowl, beat the sugar and the margarine with a wooden spoon. Stir in the yogurt, blueberries, yellow squash puree, egg, lemon extract, and lemon zest.
* Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir just to combine, but do not overmix - the batter is supposed to be lumpy.
* Divide the batter among the muffin cups. Bake until the tops of the muffins are lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center, 13 to 16 minutes. Turn the muffins out onto a rack to cool.
* Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or wrap individually and freeze up to 1 month.

Chocolate Chip Cookies (with chickpeas)

nonstick cooking spray1 c firmly packed brown sugar3/4 c trans fat-free soft tub margarine2 large egg whites2 tsp pure vanilla extract1 15 ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed2 cups semisweet chocolate chips2 cup ap flour (1/4 from wheat flour)1/2 cup oats1 tsp baking soda1/4 tsp salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the sugar and margarine with a wooden spoon or on medium speed until smooth. Beat in the egg whites and vanilla, then the chickpeas and chocolate chips. Add the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt, and mix on low speed until a thick dough forms.
3. Drop the dough by the tablespoonful onto the baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart. Press gently with a fork to flatten. Bake until the cookies are golden brown and just set, 11 - 13 minutes; do not overbake. Transfer to a rack to cool.
4. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

A dog named Dobby

2010-10-07T11:38:00.000-05:00

David's parents came down for the weekend and brought my sister in-laws dog Dobby with them. Seriously how cute are these two??? They loved playing and chasing each other around.

eyes of a child

2010-10-05T21:26:00.000-05:00

I usually do my running in the morning before David goes to work, this way I can just relax and not have to worry about giving Grant his fistful of grapes or picking up a sock he dropped. The last two days David has been out of town so I lugged Grant around on my evening runs. I'm usually a thinker when I run. I love to makes lists in my head, work on lessons/homework (when that was applicable) think about goals, ways to save money, ways to spend money....etc. Last night Grant was so enthralled with being out on a run that I couldn't help but notice, really really notice, all the little things he was oooing and ahhing over. I loved it. I loved watching the excitement as a dog ran by or the way he would scoot up to the edge of the stroller to see the man mowing the lawn. These are simple things that I NEVER pay attention to but watching Grant be so curious and excited about everything made me so happy. I love the simpleness that he teaches me, I wish I had the enthusiasm about everything like he did. Well maybe not, that could get weird if I got too excited about everything-kind of like Buddy the Elf I guess. Some highlights of the run(s).

-dogs
-kids playing soccer
-basketballs on the ground
-flowers
-birds flying
-kids smoking pot (yeah didn't want Grant to stare too hard at that one)
-clouds
-sprinklers
-kids on bikes
-lawn mowers
-trash cans (exciting yes?)
-balloons
-cars

I'm not quite sure what we're going to do once winter hits-this kid (and myself) love being outside. Puffy coats here we come.

Mt. Bierstadt

2010-09-21T22:58:00.000-05:00

I know, I know enough pictures of mountains and hiking. Um newsflash...we live in the Rockies!!! David and I have been wanting to climb a 14er since we've moved here. I realized that there was no way we could bring Grant. (darn it huh?) The Donohues were kind enough to let him wreck, uh I mean play at their house. We needed to leave our place by 5:00 am so we decided to drop him off on Friday night. Is there ever really a good age for boys to sleep at girls' homes? Yeah probably not but we figured 17 months is probably pretty harmless right? Thanks again guys, we own you big!

We woke up at 4:25am, grabbed our stuff and headed out the door in about 15 minutes, one of those luxuries of not having a kid to worry about. We had to drive about 1.5 hours and knew we needed to get a good start on the trail before the sun came up.

As the sun was rising it was so beautiful to watch it spilling through parts of the mountains. Every so often we would stop and just take in the scenery (ok maybe just maybe catch our breath) and it was amazing how many mountains were just popping up over other mountains. The hike itself was enjoyable, the wind on the other hand. Good grief! Once we made it to the top we were there for like 5 minutes, took pictures then got the heck out of there.My hat kept blowing off and there were times that the wind was literally blowing me away! I do kind of regret not spending more time up there. It was amazing how far you could see, and all the other mountains surrounding us below. It was fun to accomplish this with David and be able to stop and enjoy nature together (aw....)

I'm SO grateful that we went out before the sun was really shining. It was getting warm and to be honest the view just wasn't as pretty when the hot sun was blaring. We were probably the 6-7th people to reach the top that day and on our way down we counted over 200 people climbing up. Way too late for us to be hiking. Oh and I saw a girl I went to high school with-random.

ADRIAN! I look like Rocky right? Well minus the muscles and fact that I'm a girl, although the way I look in a hat (that is flying away) does resemble a boy. Just saying.

We love CRAIG

2010-09-15T18:06:00.000-05:00

Craig, Colorado that is. In fact we love it so much that we went there twice in one week. I won't even tell you how many miles we've put on our "new" car. I think our families might be sick of seeing us (aka messing up every square inch of their homes) so being the sweetheart I am I decided to give them a break this week....don't worry we'll be back next Saturday!

The best part of Craig (besides the mullets and big trucks) is free babysitting!!!! David and I were able to hike Cedar Mountain while Grant played with David's mom. It was so nice to just be out together and not have to worry about if Grant was getting a sunburn or hungry or wet or tired. SO nice. Don't get me wrong it was fun to see him again and we probably spent 90% of the hike talking about him but still it was great to be together. It's a really pretty view from the top-it just looks out forever. My parents live out by the mountain so we kept calling them and looking through the binoculars to see each other. Now that I write that it sounds like the act of a creepy stalker...calling and peeking at each other. I promise it wasn't creepy.

This last weekend my sister and her family were up from AZ visiting. I LOVED watching Grant play with cousins-well to be honest I kind of ignored him (hey he was quiet and happy just playing) and talked with my sister most of the time. It's so nice to have him be entertained by someone else and they all seemed to get along great.

On Saturday we rode the gondola to the top of the ski mountain in Steamboat. Despite what this picture shows Grant really did enjoyed the ride. He of course just wanted to run around and climb up on everything. It was pretty cool we could see Cedar mountain from the top of the mountains in Steamboat. Have I mentioned how much I love mountains...well I do. A lot.

Until next week....

little lovelies-panera

2010-09-14T22:23:00.000-05:00

mmmmm....I was first introduced to Panera by some girls in my ward in Milwaukee. I was hooked. I'm a sucker for their broccoli cheddar soup and asian chicken salad. I could easily drink the dressing that comes with that, oh man it's tasty!

When I was pregnant with Grant I craved "man food" all day (and night)- pizza, burgers, hot wings etc. Panera was the only "Jodee" food that I really enjoyed. During the cold months in Milwaukee (Sept-May) I wished and wished that Panera had a drive-thru but sadly they didn't and I'd have to lug baby Grant in and out of the car with me to get my lil' panini to go. But wait, can it be true? I was driving around Denver the other day and what do I see? A DRIVE-THRU! Bummer that I can't justify eating a tasty sandwich everyday-don't get me wrong my homemade pb&j is great but a girl can dream right.

little lovelies-shabby apple

2010-09-07T17:00:00.000-05:00

I was going to show a few of my favorite dresses, but that would basically be the whole website.
www.shabbyapple.com

Seriously how cute are the clothes? I could easily spend a whole month's....or year's salary on this website. Oh wait I don't have a job, guess I'll stick with my sweats and hoodies! Sigh.

nap time

2010-09-02T22:35:00.000-05:00

I live for Grant's naps. He's out for a good 3-4 hours everyday so it's plenty of time for me to get things done around this place. We play play play in the mornings and have a blast but somedays 1:00 just can NOT come fast enough. Today I experienced reason #482 on why I hate living in an apt. Grant was tucked snug away in bed when all of the sudden- "eeeeeerrrrrrr, clank clank clank". Got to love maintenance men at all hours of the day. So much for our nap. Anyway I came to the conclusion that for Grant's safety he NEEDS naps.

Example: during "nap time " today he; fell off the toilet and bumped his back on the wall (and managed to break a vase in the process), fell off our bed and bonked his head on the stationary bike. This one about killed me, I seriously thought his brains were going to pop out of his skull. A few hours later he pulled the blender out and it shattered all over the floor. Thank goodness I stocked up on grapes today because let me tell you they were about the only thing that could comfort this lil' kid. Man I'm exhausted just writing about this!

hike it or not

2010-09-02T22:07:00.001-05:00

Last weekend we strapped Grant in the carrier and headed to the mountains. We hiked the 'Royal Arch' in Boulder and this is definitely a hike I will remember. It was a little harder than we anticipated (and a LOT more rocky) but it was so pretty.

Kudos to David for luggin' that kid around. I'm sure it wasn't an easy task but he did great. Every person we passed (or should I say passed us) commented on what a 'sweet ride' Grant had. He was pretty content just looking around at everything, he was the most excited when he saw dogs though.

not quite as cool as Moab but still a pretty view

I'm so anxious for fall but it's weekends like this that make me wish warmer weather would stick around just a little longer.

little lovelies-chipmunk adventure

2010-08-31T15:57:00.000-05:00

Ahhhh what can I say, this movie is one of my all time favorites! My sister and I used to watch it over and over and well you get the point. Then when David and I started dating I found out that his family used to watch it too-just when I thought life with him couldn't get any better he goes and tells me this news (now if only he were on board with my Full House obsession)! For some odd reason (maybe because I was 25???) we didn't own this movie. My sister quickly put an end to that once Grant joined the clan. The dvd even came with a bonus soundtrack cd. You bet I have that thing downloaded on my ipod. The first time I heard "Girls of Rock & Roll" while I was running I about died laughing. Do you ever have your ipod playing and all of the sudden someone shows up at your house and a song comes on (one you downloaded for the kids or hubby) and you feel like you need to explain why it's on your playlist? Well that's basically how this whole cd should be, except I never really feel the need to explain. I just like it!

Anyway Grant loves it too. He'll come running over holding the case and just stare at all his lil friends on the cover. It's such a cute movie and surprisingly I never get tired of watching it. In fact it seems better (funnier) to me now than it did 20 years ago. Some of my favorite parts are:

-"David...you drunk?"
-"Alvin land the balloon by the fountain.", "Like I said, in the tree."
- "wurry burry"
-I love when they sing to the penguin...so sweet
-"did the spoiled brat get wetuh haha"

If you haven't seen this movie (shame on you) I want you to march your little self down to Wal-Mart and dig dig dig in the $5 bin until you find it. Don't give up, I have faith in you to find it!

nutritious meal of dirt

2010-08-27T23:52:00.004-05:00

Last weekend we went camping with the Donohues. I loved it! It was so pretty and not too cold so that's always a plus. I'm kind of sad to admit this but it was the first time we took Grant camping.....verdict...he LOVED it. This boy was on the go the whole time. Shocker I know. Eating dirt, gathering sticks, trying to play in the fire, shoving pine cones and leaves in his mouth. I sure love the kid but man he puts a damper on my relaxed weekends! Oh well I'm glad he's active and curious (ask me if I still feel that way in another year) Overall he did pretty good. Well if you just forget about the hours from 2 am-6 am. He went to bed ok, us adults sat around the campfire until about 2:00 am and then Grant decided he was tired of waiting up for us to come home to our tent. Yes let's just forget about those wee early hours. We're hopeful that our next outing will be better!

Sadie and David also made a little house for everyone.....or just for decoration.

I had to keep an eye on these little lovebirds. Piper can't resist a rugged mountain man.

On Saturday we took turns watching the kids while the other couple rode bikes. We took all the kids on a little adventure and found this big stick thing. Grant likes anything long and skinny so this was right up his alley. I was a little (or a lot) sleep deprived and my memory is foggy but I'm assuming he was frustrated that he couldn't pull this out, being the good mom I am I just kept walking away.

Having a stern talk about underage dating.

Isn't this view pretty? I love Colorado!

Luke family reunion

2010-08-27T23:07:00.000-05:00

Earlier in the month we were able to travel to Utah (ah it feels so nice to say that) and spend time with the Lukes. It was really fun to spend time with family that we don't get to see very often and have built-in babysitters for a few days. Grant had fun running around and being spoiled by his grandparents.

One night we tried to go to the Castle Valley pageant but it was rainy, and well Grant likes to just run around so we decided to called it a night. Before the pageant started we walked around and saw horses and different displays set up. Despite what this picture shows, Grant really likes animals and had a fun time trying to feed them.

Most days were rainy but we managed to go to the lake. Grant watched as David took off on the waverunner and Grant about had a heart attack. He thought David wasn't coming back so he just started bawling. I've never seen him so upset. Is it bad to admit that I thought it was funny? Heartless I know.

Thanks to everyone who helped organize the reunion, I know it's not an easy job! We had a great time!

little lovelies-smart wool

2010-08-24T19:25:00.000-05:00

There is a little running store in Orem that I love. A few years ago, oh sad it was actually like 5 years ago, I needed to find some running socks that I could use in the winter. I was introduced to Smart Wool socks and I can say that my whole winter world changed in those brief minutes. They are super comfy, cozy socks yet are moisture wicking so your feet aren't completely stinky by the end of a workout. I actually use them more for cross-country skiing than winter running....well actually I use them the most while I just lounge around our freezing cold apt (probably making cookies) but that's another topic. For my b-day this year David bought me a bunch of hiking stuff and I was excited to find a cute new pair of Smart Wool socks thrown in there. Plus their headquarters are in Steamboat so that's just one more reason they are my fav.

These beauties are the first pair I ever owned....don't you just want to wrap your little piggies around them and sip hot cocoa? No? Well maybe in a couple of months!

16 months

2010-08-22T22:22:00.000-05:00

I used to get sad that Grant was getting older because it meant my little baby wasn't so little, now I get sad because it means he is that much closer to the terrible twos (and from what I hear they continue until about 5!) Anyway I'm just soaking up all the fun he is right now. I love this stage! Well, I could do without his craziness during church. We tried to pawn him off in nursery today but apparently David and I are really cool, in fact we are much cooler than the toys, snacks and other kids so nursery was a bust. I guess that was our punishment for trying to jump the gun on that one! Here are some things I want to remember about Grant during this stage. Who is excited to be 16 months old???

*RUNS EVERYWHERE....and he's fast!
*he loves anything long and skinny (maybe this is why nursery didn't go so well) for example- swiffer, bike trailer flag, wrapping paper tube, yard stick
*he will fold his arms at the dinner table and occasionally during bedtime prayers
*he is pretty much obsessed with grapes and knows exactly where they are in the fridge
*gives hugs and kisses
*likes to be read to and I often find him sitting in his room "reading"
*doesn't say very many words yet but carried on quite the conversation with a dog on our run the other day
*he will answer "hum?" after you ask him something
*finds clever ways to climb up on our bed and launch into the pillows

We love you baby Grant!

Moscow South Mission Reunion

2010-08-12T22:29:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago David received an invite to attend what might be his last mission reunion. His former mission Pres. is in poor health and we knew this would probably be the last time for everyone to get together. Although we wanted to go we knew that we were going to be traveling a lot this summer and figured we better pass on this. David kept wishing there was a way for us to go....Thursday afternoon I get a phone call from him and a few hours later we were on our way. I am so happy that we were able to visit with his old mission buddies and meet new people.

Grant followed suit and was running around the whole night. Most of the kids were older and enjoyed playing a game of "zombies" or something so Grant entertained himself by trying to lick cars and play in rain puddles. I was talking with one of our friends and he mentioned how "boy" Grant is, right after he said that Grant bent over so that his crack was hanging out of his shorts and started scratching his little bum. It couldn't have been planned more perfectly. Oh goodness.

It just so happened that my family was out to SLC doing temple work and we were able to visit with them. David's sisters also live in Utah so that was a bonus. I've come to the conclusion that there are just too many people/places/things to see in Utah that I need about a week (or two) in order to do it all. I wish we could have stayed and spent time with friends and strolled around BYU campus. Hopefully our next trip out won't be so rushed but knowing us I'm sure it will!

little lovelies-coconut dreams

2010-08-10T17:55:00.000-05:00

Until Grant lands himself a cute girl scout I guess I'll have to munch on these babies. Man they are good.

bike trip

2010-08-04T15:01:00.002-05:00

A few weekends ago we decided to spend the day riding bikes with the Donohues. There is a paved trail that goes from their house all the way to downtown Denver. The ride was about 30 miles and if you forget about the nasty smell from the dog food factory it was quite enjoyable. We rode to a little park and played for awhile, ate ice-cream at this adorable little place shaped like a milk jug, went to REI (hands down the coolest REI I've ever been to) and then rode back. (despite the snot on his face I think this is a cute picture of Grant helping with the bikes!)

Poor David had to pull the bike trailer there AND back (I know I know, I'm a wimp!) and later he found out that his back break had been on for about 8-9 miles! I was really impressed with how well he did considering all that was going on. All three kids were so good and seemed to have a lot of fun. Once we got back to our place we all went swimming, had dinner and just hung out. It's so nice to do fun FREE things like that. We'll definitely be riding this trail again.

Apparently I really enjoy pushing Grant in the swing!

little lovelies-blue sky

2010-08-03T17:17:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows me well knows that I talk with my dad on a regular (ok daily) basis. When I moved away from CO he would always tell me about the weather in Craig. It was usually something along the lines of "another pretty blue sky". I never really thought much about it until I moved back to Colorado. David and I were so excited to get back to the mountains but I find myself commenting (usually 7-8 times a week) about the beautiful sky. I love that I can see so many puffy white clouds and that the sun is ALWAYS shining. *300+ days a year*. The first thing I do in the morning (after realizing it's waaayy too early for Grant to be up) is open all the blinds (make sure my car wasn't busted in to) and enjoy the beautiful blue sky and sunshine. I love how clear and clean it feels, instantly puts me in a good mood. I was reading about the CO state flag and the blue stripes on it represent the clear blue sky, how fitting huh? FYI the white stripe is for the snow and the gold circle is for the sun. Not the prettiest flag but I think it's a good representation of the state.

I've been paying more and more attention to the sky lately (ever since I turned 26 I'm just so much wiser and in tune!) and although I favor the blue sky I do love a good sunrise/sunset. I've seen some gorgeous ones setting over the mountains. I think my favorite place to stare at the sky is out at my parents home. I swear you can see every star out there and the view of the Steamboat ski runs and mountains goes on forever.

little lovelies-cats in costume

2010-07-27T16:10:00.000-05:00

Call me crazy, shoot call me Angela from The Office if you wish but yes I will proudly admit that I am a sucker for dressed up cats. I can't even write it without laughing, I know it's pathetic but I LOVE seeing it! Oh and it has to be a cat/kitten, none of this dressed up dog stuff because that's just weird.

When I was little we used to dress our cat up in doll clothes, strap her in the stroller and head off to the neighbors. She would even let us shove her tail in the onesies and put a bonnet on. She ended up going crazy a few years later hum....

One year David gave me an anniversary card with a cat dressed up on the front. Now talk about the way to a woman's heart right?

How can you not smile at that? Seriously. I'm busting a gut over here....ah....I really need a hobby.

Harrison Family Reunion

2010-07-26T15:21:00.002-05:00

One of the perks about being back in CO is that we are FINALLY able to go to my family reunion. They have been having it in LaVeta, CO for the last 30+ years and this was the first year David has been able to come. Some of my favorite summer memories are from there, hanging around the cabin, talking with family and enjoying the beautiful mountains. It was really fun to be there with Grant and David. I was bummed that my brother and sister couldn't come with their families, hopefully next year. Grant was a good boy and thoroughly enjoyed himself during the trip. He mainly just watched people, tried to tag along with the older cousins, played in the dirt, chased the dog around and of course ate, ate, ate. I don't think I will ever get over how much this kid can eat. Seriously there has to be some kind of record or something.

Grant kept falling asleep during lunch. It was so funny. I did take a video but it's probably not that entertaining to watch unless you are a.) Grant's parents or b.) Grant's grandparents. Anyway use your imaginations it was pretty funny though.

I sure am glad Grant took his role of killing flies seriously.

I'm glad that David had a fun time too. It seems like childhood things aren't as cool or interesting to others and I usually find myself saying "I guess you had to be there" or "it's different now" but when David told me that he would love to retire there I guess I can assume he had a fun time!

little lovelies-oxi clean

2010-07-13T17:00:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure why I am posting this since I am ssooo clean and neat and never have a reason to use this stuff. HA! I was practically married to the oxi spray the first 6 months of Grant's life! I remember my mom picked up a box of it from Sam's one time and then my friend Karen gave me some for my baby shower but I had never really tried it before then. Verdict: I love it....and my clothes seem to like it just as much!

hooray hoorah we love americahhh

2010-07-08T16:09:00.000-05:00

I have always loved the 4th of July. I love that everyone is in a good mood-maybe it's the wholesome family time, the fact that we actually reflect on how blessed we are to be Americans, the nice weather, good food, I don't know but I always feel like for 1 day everyone is just nice and I love that! Yes I realize this is a high quality photo, thank you very much.

David was lucky enough to have part of Friday and all of Monday off, so we made sure to pack in lots of fun things! We were able to see my bff (yes I just wrote bff) and her husband on Saturday and enjoyed playing at the park and just catching up with them. Since we are no longer in Utah they actually celebrated the 4th well...on the 4th so we missed a lot of the fun activities. Sunday night we drove up to Brighton and watched the fireworks from the back of our car. It was pouring. We were a little bummed with the fireworks but one nice thing about living out in the plains is that we were able to see lots of different fireworks going off throughout all of Denver as we drove back home.

Monday morning we decided to venture out by Evergreen for a little (or not so little) family hike. It was beyond beautiful! I loved all the trees and being surrounded by mountains. It felt so good to just get out as be together as a family. Grant was really excited to be outside too. He didn't love wearing his hat but overall he was a pretty happy camper...or hiker...uh....

He got really quiet and I looked up and saw this...

About an hour later he finally woke up and once again enjoyed the hike. We kept giving him different leaves and pieces of grass to play with. He had a death grip on this thing the whole car ride home. I wish every weekend could be a 3 day weekend....well considering I stay home all day I guess I can't really complain:)

Regardless of what this outfit may suggest, Grant does not work for Target as a cashier. And yes I did buck up as a parent and force him to wear a hat.

little lovelies-birthday club

2010-07-06T13:35:00.000-05:00

I'm all for free things....especially free food! I'm always wanting to go out to eat but can never justify spending the money-cue birthday club. I make it a point to sign up at every restaurant, come June I'm loaded with free meals. My b-day was last Tuesday and I had a plethora of options to choose from.

I love the places that actually give you a free MEAL and not just a free appetizer or dessert because who are we kidding I could just eat chips and salsa at home and get my slush at sonic during happy hour. Anyway....my favorites are Noodles (which for some reason I didn't get one this year-looks like they might not make my top 5 anymore) Ruby Tuesday, Famous Dave's (although you never quite know what your free item will be, sneaky lil' guys eh?), Red Robin and my all time favorite is BD's. We thought this was only in WI but turns out they have one in downtown Denver. We went for David's b-day a year or two ago and not only did we get a free meal but a free dessert too-a good dessert I might add, not just a little cake but a massive ice-cream sundae. Jackpot. Maybe we had a new waitress that time because every other b-day we only get a free meal.

So yes my birthday was last Tuesday and I was thoroughly spoiled. I'm a heavy sleeper and didn't hear a peep out of David and Grant as they made me breakfast. David out did himself and got me some much needed (and wanted) hiking gear and I wore those puppies around all day to break them in.

After a relaxing dinner we went and played miniature golf. Grant did really well (behaving not golfing) and we had a fun time enjoying the great weather. It's probably not a good thing that he did so well because now I just want to take him every night! Thanks for the great b-day!

14 months

2010-06-22T16:07:00.000-05:00

Well he is definitely not a baby anymore. Everyone always says that each stage gets more fun and I totally believe it now. He is so much fun to watch and hang out with everyday. His little personality is starting to show through and I LOVE it! He is generally a pretty happy easy going boy.

-he is walking EVERYWHERE! he has been walking for a little over a month unassisted but just in the last couples of weeks he has really started exploring. he actually likes to run around too. i chase him around the house and he giggles and runs away. so cute!

-still loves listening to David play the guitar, he is nice enough to let Grant strum it and boy oh boy does he get excited about that.

-likes to be read to

-he is starting to learn to fold his arms for prayers. oh my goodness talk about sweet.

-loves to watch 'nacho libre'

-he always carries things in his hands-straws, bowls, cars, phones, and walks around talking into them like they are phones. i hope that's not too girly-just social right? he paces around while 'talking' just like his mama.

-likes to hide and play 'peek-a-boo'

-he is really trying to talk but still doesn't say much, well anything that is understandable besides 'mama' and 'dada'

-loves to people watch and is always so curious with what is going on

We sure do love you billy Grant!

little lovelies-garmin forerunner 305

2010-06-22T15:44:00.000-05:00

David and I agree that this is hands down one of our best purchases. I can't believe I went so long without one! Since we didn't live close to any marked trails I used to drive around and calculate how long my runs were. Yes it was a major pain in the neck and extremely heartbreaking when I would discover that I didn't run as far as I thought! After a few years of driving around all of WI David broke down and surprised me with this beauty for Christmas one year! Makes my book of "IOU" look pretty bad huh?

Sure it takes up my whole arm and in the summer I have a nice farmers tan but what the heck! Last night for FHE we went geocaching and we both said how we wished we would have brought the Garmin because it would have been more accurate. I would highly recommend this gadget, it seriously is life changing-I swear I don't work for them!

hooray for vacations!

2010-06-21T15:31:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of the month Grant and I hopped in the car with my parents and drove off to St. George! My nephew was getting baptized and it worked out for us to be able to come. It was so wonderful to spend time with ALL my family (minus David and my sisters husband) and to have such a great reason to meet up. I love laughing, talking and just being with my family. Grant had a lot of fun getting spoiled and mooching off everyone for food. Seriously he'd hear someone open a bag of chips or cookies and immediately drop whatever he was doing and walk as fast as he could over there and climb up on whoever! It was pretty funny at first but started to get a little out of control! This trip was definitely a new adventure for him-cookies, popcorn, ice-cream, chips, hamburgers etc. He had a big belly the whole time!

We spent a few days in St. George and then a few more days over in Vegas. We were able to meet up with David's sister and I was happy that she could play with Grant for a few hours. It was pretty hot the whole time so we mainly stayed inside or by the pool. Grant liked being in the water but couldn't quite figure out what he wanted-he didn't want to be held but he didn't want to be alone either-that doesn't really work out but whatever.

David had to fly out to MN so he wasn't able to join us. We sure missed him.....can't you tell??? Just kidding, we really did.

We went bowling (oh how I love the bumpers), swimming, walked around a few hotels, went to the arcade(Grant walked around for a minute barefoot on that carpet...can you guess what color his feet were?) Thanks for the great trip mom & dad!

It's here!!!!!

2010-06-21T15:06:00.000-05:00

Summer is officially here! How are you going to celebrate? We'll we (Grant and I) started the day off by wearing our surf/floral shirts and sunglasses as we went to the store. We enjoyed our fresh strawberries while listening to The Beach Boys, Jack Johnson and Eric Clapton (yes Clapton isn't really summer-ish but he's great and you never need a reason to listen to him right?) We inhaled our fruit smoothies in record time and if that kid ever decides to get up we will head to the park and play in the grass. I can't wait for David to get home tonight and for us to just spend time outside as a family. It's been beautiful here the last few days and although I love when Grant takes naps I sure hate being cooped up inside all day! Ah I can't get enough of summer! I LOVE IT!!!!

I feel sad that I didn't do/say much for Father's day. I am HORRIBLE at expressing my feelings of appreciation and even more HORRIBLE at giving gifts! I'll keep this short, if you really want to read all my mushiness about father's you'll have to pry open one of my journals, I'll just say that I am one lucky girl. I love that I have so many worthy examples in my life who will be a great influence on Grant. I'm thankful for David and the kind things he does for Grant and I. I am grateful for my own dad and father in-law, they are both so gentle and loving and make me want to try harder to be a better person. The greatest perk about David's new job is the distance from our home town. I love being close to our families and having the chance to have Grant be around these great men---oh and the grandma's are pretty cool too I suppose;)

little lovelies-journals

2010-06-15T15:40:00.000-05:00

I never really kept a good journal growing up...well I guess if you count the orange binder that had "N.B. is a hung." written all over it. Give me a break, I was like 4 and didn't know how to spell "hunk" maybe I should have just written "N.B. has a really nice rat tail, almost as nice as NKOTB." I digress.....

In high school my good friend Kellie gave me this adorable journal with all sorts of uplifting things on the cover. For the first time I was actually excited to write in it! Maybe it's because I'm pretty neutral with my home decor (I can't get too crazy girly ya know!) but I do love me some fun journals/notebooks. I could spend hours at Target looking through all the cute stuff, that's where I can be as girly as I want! Anyway that specific high school journal is rather funny, the first page says "Tonight David Luke gave a fireside about his mission. It was really good." The rest of the journal covers my acceptance into BYU-I, roomies, dates, jobs etc. and ends with "David Luke and I are getting married."

I didn't write very much while I was at BYU and I regret that. So many wonderful things happened during that time in my life and I wish I had taken the time to express the hard work and blessings that I was experiencing. I did however become a master at creating lists and bringing my day planner with me EVERYWHERE! I still have all my old day planners and I love reading through them and seeing the different classes/callings/outings I had going on in my life. I was so busy during those 4 years (who isn't?) and I often wish I had that type of energy and determination again, I keep my journals/planners by my bed and often turn to them for motivation.

After graduation I started writing more diligently. Sure it's not the easiest (or most exciting) thing but I am grateful that I have those big, small, and mundane life events on paper. There have been numerous nights that David and I have read through stories of dates, pregnancies, callings and laughed or cried--or my favorite feeling- laughing and crying at the same time!

About a year ago in YW we made these "journal jars", basically 52 questions that can help you start journaling. "What is your favorite holiday and why?", "Describe a time when you were proud of yourself or family member." etc. Sure it is cheesy but I love it! It is our Sunday night tradition and a great way for us to start our own family history!

Estes Park

2010-06-13T16:01:00.001-05:00

For memorial day weekend we decided to check out Estes Park. We loved it. Loved it! We packed a little picnic and enjoyed the nice weather. It was a lot of fun to be outside together as a family and experience something different. Grant thoroughly enjoyed the picnic-he just sat there on the blanket and looked around while eating his fruit and sandwich. What a cheap date!

The Shining was filmed in Estes Park and we were able to drive by the hotel and also see Jack Nicholson who was there for a book signing....or was he????

Estes Park is a really pretty place-there are a lot of hiking trails that we will hopefully be able to try out this summer.

On Monday we went to a memorial day parade, I always get so emotional during parades. I love seeing all the kids dressed in red, white and blue. I love hearing the sirens go off and seeing all the old men and women waving at everyone. Grant was drawing quite a crowd himself. He always kicks up his feet while in the stroller, I don't think he even noticed everyone commenting on it. Hey a little boy needs to air out every once in a while right? After the parade we had a BBQ with friends and spent the day enjoying the warm weather. Too bad David can't have every Monday off!

little lovelies-trampolines

2010-06-01T22:13:00.000-05:00

Hooray it's June!!! This is by far my favorite month-bbq's, swimming pools, clear blue skies, and TRAMPOLINES! Yes I know I'm in need of more mature hobbies but in my book you're never too old to have a little fun right? I loved having something to do everyday. Sure I could have/should have cleaned, pulled weeds...got a job but those would just get in the way of having a "bum war" on the trampoline or perfecting my "Pocahontas" dive from the deck to the tramp. I was always disappointed when my cheerleading jumps didn't look as polished and high on land as they did when I practicing in the air. I loved sleeping under the stars and being able to wake up and jump with all the blankets and sleeping bags flapping all around. The other day I was telling David how bad I want a house...not just for space, a place of our own, etc. but so that we can actually have a trampoline!

little lovelies-baby lotion

2010-05-25T13:21:00.000-05:00

Ok I'll admit it I've never cared for the smell of baby lotion. I know it's something that all females are just supposed to loooove and drool over but for me...nadda...until a few years ago. I was shopping for a baby shower gift and stumbled across this bedtime lotion, I figured it went well with the bedtime book and crib sheets I bought so why not? Fast forward a few years and this same friend buys me the same gift (yes on purpose) complete with this heavenly bedtime lotion. I'll let you in on another secret-I dread bathtime. Sure it's fun to see him kick, splash, drink dirty water etc. but getting him out and rubbin' him down with lotion is beyond frustrating. The guys at Johnson & Johnson sure make it worth it though-Grant smells sooo handsome all day long. I'll probably insist that he wears it until he's 18....I'm sure he wouldn't get made fun of in the locker room.

little lovelies-ice-cream

2010-05-18T17:26:00.000-05:00

For years I've seen people blog about things they love or some of their favorite items/memories. It's fun to read these and learn more about my friends. I have also tried a few of these "favorite items" just because they sparked my interested. Different cleaning supplies, foods, beauty products etc. Lately I've been feeling like this blog is a tribute to Grant-which don't get me wrong the kid is cute and about 90% of my day revolves around him, but I also want to have a document on the things that make me happy besides my little {and big} dude(s). So...I'm going to jump on the bandwagon and write down my thoughts.....first up. ICE CREAM!!!!

Oh how I love this yummy yummy stuff. Love it. LOOOVE IT! I used to have 2 bowls a day growing up. One giant bowl after school and another one after dinner. I used to sit there and play Nintendo on the banana chair with a my mint chocolate chip right by my side. Ah who needs good grades anyway?

The other day I was wanting to practice making flowers for cakes and decided to try to making a Dairy Queen cake because let's be honest they are fantastic. (BTW is it just me or is their chocolate xtreme blizzard not the greatest thing ever?) My frosting didn't set right for the leaves so there are a few splotches where I attempted and then backed out. The cake was easy to make but pretty rich. Oreos, fudge, triple chocolate ice-cream....atleast the oreos were reduced-fat! Pretty sure that doesn't mean I can scarf down the whole cake though.

There was a place in WI called Sweet Peas. Oh my it was fantastic. They had the best cake batter ice-cream--I talked about it for weeks. Seriously. If only there was a way to ship it.

Grant's world, Grant's world, party time, excellent

2010-05-11T16:19:00.000-05:00

So yes I know his birthday was April 22nd and yes I know today is May 11th. I could make a lot of excuses but I'll just cut to the chase and get on with the pictures.

We were in Utah during the week of his birthday and I loved that everyone was able to see him and help celebrate. I do feel slightly bad that I didn't make his cake, I mean I make cakes because "hey it's Thursday!" or other silly reasons but with the move, and traveling it was just too much right then. He seemed totally content with his red monster cake.

I've been so busy lately that I haven't had time to reflect on what a blessing he really is to us. It has been a fun year watching him grow and learn and even though I am excited for the new milestones I can't help but get a little sad that my baby is growing up. Oh well what do you do? We love you baby Grant!

taking sides

2010-05-05T15:50:00.000-05:00

Side A

Side (B)ehind

a big shout out!

2010-05-04T17:59:00.000-05:00

Did you know that today is "Teacher Appreciation Day"? Yea me neither, but thanks to my BH&G magazine I was quickly up to speed! If there is one thing that gets me a little fired up it's the phrase "teachers have it so easy. they work 9 months out of the year, work 7-3 and have weekends off. anyone could be a teacher!" Ugh. Seriously? I can honestly tell you that student teaching was BY FAR the hardest 4 months of life...so far!

I remember thinking "how hard can it be to teach 14 year olds about the food guide pyramid?" (that part was easy---teaching about the birds and the bees was another story!) I'm sure once you get the hang of it things might go smoothly and you really would be off work by 3 and not be busy with work on the weekends but man oh man I never had the chance to "leave work at work". There were ALWAYS meetings, papers to grade, meetings, bullies to deal with, meetings, other teachers who could care less, parents who could care less, kids who could care less-or even worse kids that care TOO much and cry about their A-.

I'm grateful that there are people out there that love teaching and helping others. I'm grateful for the teachers that I have had that pushed me to be better. I may not have liked it but I'm grateful for it. In high school my favorite teachers were the "cool" ones that let us leave class early or decided to skip a test here or there. I wish I would have tried a little (a lot) harder during those years but rest assured I made up for it in college!

At BYU I was struggling with Russian and my professor pulled me aside after class to give me the confidence I needed. She wasn't very kind about it but I walked away feeling so loved and important to her. She was teaching several classes and it would have been easy for her to just give me my C+ but instead she helped me to realize my strengths and abilities and I will never forget that. David and I still speak fondly of her.

I hope everyone realizes how lucky we are to have such wonderful examples...and a place to take our kids when we need a break;)

craziest week of the century

2010-05-01T17:36:00.001-05:00

I swear we set a new record of cramming the most we could into a fourteen day span. Let's see....

Thursday (the 15th)- David resigns from Kohl's
Friday- super quick good-byes to friends
Saturday- movers came and loaded up our stuff, drove to Lincoln NE
Sunday- drove to Craig, CO
Monday- family BBQ, David learned how to install new brakes (with the help of my dad and uncle) we'll just keep our $500 thank you very much Midas.
Tuesday- drove to Pleasant Grove UT and had a BBQ with friends
Wednesday- session at the Provo temple with family
Thursday- Grant's birthday (more to follow), manicures with the girls
Friday- witnessed the sealing of my cute sister in-law and new bro in-law, luncheon, reception
Saturday- drove to St. George, sealings in the temple, Court of Honor for my nephew (of course another BBQ)
Sunday- drove to Denver, stayed with the Donohues
Monday- moved into our apartment
Tuesday- David flew to MN for work, my mom came to keep Grant and I safe...uh I mean unpack
Wednesday- try to get back to a normal life!

It was a crazy week but I am so grateful that we were able to be at all these wonderful and important family events. I think I've hit up every fast food place in the west! Sheesh!

So yes for those who didn't know we did indeed move back to CO. David really enjoyed working for Kohl's but when the opportunity presented itself we couldn't refuse the chance to move closer to family....and mountains. We have really enjoyed it so far- minus the loud thumping of a bass that has been blaring through my window for about an hour! Last night we ate at Cafe Rio and were surrounded by mormons. It was like a little mini Provo! Overall I think it's going to be a great place for us right now!

a lovely weekend

2010-04-05T08:34:00.001-05:00

i loved easter. i loved general conference. i loved our family "hike". i loved looking at the lake. i loved that i didn't shower and then posted a picture of me with my "sleepy face". i loved that grant is flashing a "peace" sign in the photo. i loved spending the weekend with friends and family. i loved that grant chowed down on an apple while watching conference-somehow without pants???

i loved seeing about 10 wild turkeys. i loved that grant FINALLY started saying "mama". i loved that we went to a russian food market and bought an over priced children's book for grant. i loved that the book was about a goat that gets mad at children for not eating their cereal. i loved that grant quickly retrieved a piece of fallen russian chocolate. i loved that he didn't beg and beg more. i loved getting a package in the mail. i loved the beautiful weather and green grass. i loved that the sun was out most of the time. i loved being with my friends and family (oh yeah i mentioned that already)

11 months

2010-03-22T22:52:00.001-05:00

Well it's that time again, man oh man the time is just flying by. The only new news is that Grant can twist his tongue (both ways) just like his mama! I was really really excited to see this!

*only 2 teeth still, there are 2 more coming in though....as manifested by the gnawing of the fingers!

*crawling and climbing up on EVERYTHING

*likes to be out and about...the store, library, restaurants, friends etc. etc.
*he is so close to standing by himself but he likes to make a game out of it by just collapsing in our arms instead. rather annoying if you ask me!

2010-03-22T15:31:00.000-05:00

I love the feeling of accomplishment and knowing that I am doing something for the greater good. A lot of days I feel like just do the mundane things of motherhood-not that there is anything wrong with that but it's easy to feel like "just a stay at home mom" is boring and I must not be doing much with my life. This past weekend David and I went to the temple to do some work for family members and it really helped me to feel the importance of the gospel and my role as a member. I'm grateful that we were able to go down to Chicago as a family. Grant was fairly content staring out the car window at the snow while David and I took turns going through a session. I'm so grateful to have my family and know that we can be together forever.

typical day....

2010-03-08T16:23:00.000-06:00

Those who know me well know that I love routines and order. I get on these little kicks where I have to do/eat/look at something everyday for "x" amount of days or I just feel all out of whack. Can we say OCD? It has come to our attention that Grant has his own little routines and habits that he likes to do.

#1. Play in his toys

#2. Once that gets boring he moves on to the kitchen

#3. Plastic toys are for babies so he moves on to the knives and sharp items in the dishwasher

#4. While I am cleaning up the plastic explosion in the kitchen Grant climbs all over the couches and coffee table (only 1 bloody mouth so far!) and likes to scoot around! Oh and I won't even bother to take a picture of the blinds or baskets that he has bent to heck!

#5. Got to get 30 minutes of practice in

#6. This is hard work so he decides to hang out in his "crib in the hood"...I mean sleep in his crib while wearing a hood.

10 months

2010-02-26T09:46:00.000-06:00

This is a little late but I'm happy to say we've made it to double digits! I can't believe it. This has probably been my favorite stage with him so far-sure he is BUSY BUSY BUSY but oh so fun and cute!

*finally sprouted two teeth--his top two--nice big buck teeth!
*loves to get into the kitchen cabinets and also all the dvds
*likes to be read to and will actually sit quietly and cuddle with me while we read-this is one of my favorite times of the day
*is a great eater---the other day i made this nasty spinach/cucumber/parsley smoothie and the kid couldn't get enough of it! he kept crawling all over my leg trying to get more!
*loves to randomly scream, he's really happy but just really loud...not quite sure how to deal with that!
*pulls up on EVERYTHING and walks along the table and couch, he looks so grown up when he shuffles all around the living room

v-day recap

2010-02-18T11:12:00.000-06:00

We are pretty boring when it comes to Valentine's day but I don't seem to mind. I DID get a card with a kitten on it so I was happy! If only it would have been dressed up in some costume....there's always next year. Saturday morning I ran an 8k race.

It was cold.

It was crowded.

I got bottlenecked like every 12 steps.

My pictures got deleted.

After the race we had a yummy lunch at Il Mito's in Wauwatosa. It was SO so so good. We figured we skip the dinner crowds and celebrate v-day with Grant by having a fun lunch. I'm already planning our next excuse to eat there!

www.ilmito.com

On Sunday I attempted to make fondue without a fondue pot. Hum. I've had better meals;) It was still fun to try something new.

I sure love all my friends and family...and I suppose my two men!

Hey ladies........

2010-02-14T21:19:00.002-06:00

Name: Grant Forrest Luke

Age: 9 months

Height: 28 in.

Weight: 16 lbs

Interested in: Women

Hobbies: pulling up on furniture, playing in the blinds, getting myself stuck under the futon and bouncing my head off the coffee table.
My ideal date would be: a nice stroll through the park, pureed veggies and fresh fruit at my place, tossing around an empty water bottle followed by some cuddling.
Interested? Have your mom call my mom.

When it rains it pours

2010-02-08T20:37:00.000-06:00

Sheesh just when I thought my life was turning into the movie "Groundhog Day" I up and had a crazy busy week. I loved it! I love play dates, girls nights, baby showers, parties and enrichment or whatever it is now called! I sure loved being home relaxing with Grant today though! LOVED IT!

He has had quite the week himself! It was like he grew up overnight. One day I found him standing in his crib...that pretty much gave me a heart attack. The next day I noticed he has a tooth trying to pop it's way into the world. He slithers around EVERYWHERE but one day he was hungry enough that he actually crawled over to where I was to get some food, with cereal puffs in chub-a-lub cheeks he slithered back over to his toys. One day I walked in and found the dvd's all over the room....and then all the wii stuff about an hour later. Yesterday I noticed another tooth that wants to keep #1 company. Oh and he knocked over my spinach/blueberry smoothie which surprise surprise stained the carpet! What kind of mother leaves a smoothie on the floor you may ask? The kind of mother who is suffering from a heart attack and bent over putting away dvd's that's what kind of mother! There is beauty in renting right???

Anyway he sure is a busy busy boy....well at home anyway. Whenever we are out in public he just lays on the floor and stares at his hands or positions himself on his side to seduce the ladies. He's a goofball but we sure love him!

another treat for the road

2010-01-27T21:24:00.000-06:00

If you are anything like me you stress about what to serve for guests. Well rest assured that if Buddy the Elf and his sugar obsession visit you I have the PERFECT recipe. David asked if I would make a cake for a co-workers b-day but since I was too lazy to pull out all the cake stuff and destroy my kitchen with frosting I decided to go for a trifle...which looked silly considering I don't have a trifle dish (maybe when Buddy comes to visit he can put in a word to Santa for me!) I found this recipe ( www.mykitchencafe.blogspot.com ) and figured it met all the peanut butter and chocolate requirements. I have to admit when I was making it I felt like a 6 year old attempting to make an FHE treat by just grabbing everything that was in the pantry. I think it turned out pretty good though;)

1 9X13 pan of your favorite brownie recipe
10 ounce bag of peanut butter chips
5 ounce package vanilla instant pudding mix
3 cups milk
1/2 cup peanut butter, creamy
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup whipping cream, whipped and divided
20 regular sized (about 2 inches in diameter) peanut butter cups, divided

15-20 oreos chopped (it didn't call for it in the recipe but let's be honest can you go wrong with oreo....i didn't think so)

Line a 13 by 9 inch pan with aluminum foil, extend foil by 2 inches over side. Grease lightly with cooking spray. Prepare brownies according to the recipe. Add peanut butter chips. Bake in foil lined pan for length of time required. Cool completely.

Lift foil out of pan. Invert on cutting board. Remove foil. Cut into 3/4 inch pieces, using sharp knife.

Coarsely chop peanut butter cups; 1/4 cup for garnish.

Combine pudding mix and milk in large bowl. Beat at low speed for 2 minutes or until thickened (I had to chill mine for about 5 minutes to thicken it completely). Add peanut butter and vanilla; beat until smooth. Gently fold in half of whipped cream.

Place half of brownies in bottom of trifle bowl; top with 1/2 of chopped candy/oreo and half of pudding. Repeat layers. Top with remaining whipped cream, spooned or piped on. Garnish top with remaining peanut butter cups. This would work with any cookie/candy combo too!

9 months....and 360 months

2010-01-22T20:55:00.001-06:00

Sheesh I've been a little on the lazy side of blogging these days. Tuesday was David's birthday, I hope he had a fun day. To kick off the morning Grant woke up (too excited to sleep I'm sure!) at 3:30 am which meant that David was up at 3:30 as well, hum...what a thoughtful present Grant, thank you! After David left for work Grant and I decorated the house with balloons and streamers. Ok Grant just crawled around with his tongue hanging out while I did all the work. It was quite the psychedelic trip for him but once his eyes adjusted to everything I think he had a lot of fun chasing the balloons and watching me pop my head through the streamers and ribbons like every 5 seconds. We went out to dinner that night and had a fun time as a family. We love you David!!! *No Grant is not wearing capris...just the way he is situated!*

Well today Grant turned 9 months and I can honestly say this was the hardest yet best month by far. I was either giving him kisses and kisses or setting up my ebay account...I was thisclose to putting him up for sale multiple nights. He was sick for a few days and just when I thought he was getting better he ended up having a double ear infection. It was hard to know if he was really sick because he was always happy, well in the day at least (that's where the millions of kisses were given). In fact when I took him into the doctor he was acting totally fine, just like when you take your car in to the shop it just magically works again and the mechanic thinks you're nuts! Anyway he is finally better! Hooray!!! His check up is next week so I will get his stats then. We love you baby G!

-loves music...especially the guitar
-army crawls EVERYWHERE! it's a good thing there are like 3 places in my house he could be, everytime i turn around he is somewhere else.
-he says "dada" a lot but hasn't quite figured out who it is...i like to pretend he says "dada" over "mama" because i always say nice things about "dada" to him;)
-laughs a lot
-will choose my boring clear water bottle over any fun new toy
-likes to feed himself
-gets really happy when elmo is on

a little light reading....making sure to read the home teaching message by the end of the month!

this pretty much describes the last month....reaching and grabbing anything and everything!

oops...8 months

2010-01-09T23:57:00.000-06:00

We were in CO when Grant decided to grow up and turn 8 months old. He is so much fun these days. I took him to the doctor yesterday and he weighs 16 lbs! Hum I guess we'll be starting the "bacon only" diet in 2010.

*He can kind of make out "dada" but mainly just screams and sighs really loud.
*He sits up on his own, rolls around a lot but mainly just army crawls for everything.
*LOVE LOVE LOVES my water bottle and will scoot for that thing over any fun colorful toy.

To be honest I'm a bad mother and can't really remember what he did during 8 months! More to report in a few weeks on his 9 mo. stats!

that is sooo 2009

2010-01-09T23:42:00.001-06:00

Sheesh Christmas was forever ago and I'm now getting around to blog about it. Why you may ask? Well one boy (David) has strep and the other has a double ear infection. Boo. Don't let that fool you though, Grant was all smiles at the doctor's office. He's been fairly happy----we just have to make sure we're either jumping in front of mirrors or playing peek-a-boo and he's fine, once those things stop then we're in trouble!

Ok back to Christmas....we had a wonderful time in Colorado visiting both of our families. Some of the Harrison clan drove up to spend Christmas with us too which was a lot of fun! Grant did pretty good on the trip...however he started making these crazy faces and puppy sounds every once in awhile which was weird but I guess he left that habit in CO because he's back to normal now!

We opened our presents from each other a few days before we left for CO, Grant got a piggy bank and some books. He is one smarty pants kid and had a grip on that pig the whole night!

Playing with some of his cousins....

We had a little candlelight/talent night at my parents house, it was a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.

All of the Luke crew got college jammies and I think Grant's are pretty much the cutest thing out there! I'm afraid we'll need these in every size, got to start 'em young right???

It was so fun to listen to Christmas music, watch Luke 2, exchange gifts (we had a white elephant exchange which Grant wound up getting some lottery tickets and won $24....good thing we bought a piggy bank!!!) read Christmas stories and just laugh and be together as a family! Darn it, if only there was a way to move Kohl's closer to our family. ;)

Christmas in Osh Kosh

2009-12-13T20:25:00.001-06:00

Yes we went to Osh Kosh. Yes the Osh Kosh where Osh Kosh B'Gosh is located. Yes we actually paid for gas and took the time to go there. Yes it is very industrial and yes we will gladly live in Butler rather than Osh Kosh. But...yes we had a blast being there as a family touring the Paine Mansion Nutcracker.

Way back when there was a successful man (Nathan Paine) that owned several lumber mills in the area. He eventually wanted his house to become an art gallery or museum....which is exactly what happened. During Christmas they decorate it to look like scenes from The Nutcracker. It was SSSOOO pretty and really helped us to get even more excited about Christmas. I'm really sad because we were only allowed to take pictures in the front room. The rooms were decorated really neat-upside down trees, tables and tables of cakes/cookies/sweets, various nutcrackers. I've been trying to find pictures online but no such luck! http://www.thepaine.org/

And of course Grant had to bring his tongue!!!

These books were set up to guide you from room to room as it told the story of The Nutcracker

We are getting so excited for Christmas! Grant has been begging and begging me to take him to see Santa. Since he has been a good little boy I think maybe we'll scoot on over to the mall tomorrow and see the jolly ol' man! Hopefully Grant gets everything on his wish list....diapers, food, computer cord and a large piece of furniture (make that two) to bonk his head on!

A new twist on Thanksgiving

2009-12-03T09:04:00.002-06:00

I suppose I should post about our holiday events! We went to the Wisconsin Dells (largest indoor water park) with our friends for Thanksgiving. Yes I know...who goes to a water park on Thanksgiving??? WE DO!!! And my oh my it was fun! As soon as we got to the resort we quickly changed and hit the pool, I was excited to see what Grant thought of it. The kid loves bath time so I thought he'd be in heaven. Well the whole thing was quite a psychedelic trip for him. I mean look at this.....slides, fountains, buckets of water.

The kid didn't know what to think. We took him on the lazy river which he seemed to enjoy but we realized that he was still too little to really care. Thankfully our friends offered to watch him in the hotel room while David and I went from slide to slide to slide to slide. It was so fun to just hang out and know that Grant was being taken care of. We are already planning to go back when he can walk around and really enjoy the water.

On Thursday Grant was having a hard time napping in the hotel so we decided to just drive around town and see all the shops. I was bummed because all the cute little diners, ice-cream and fudge shops were closed for Thanksgiving. I swear when I was working retail we were open like 24/7 but as soon as I want to go anywhere they close up shop! Oh well...more reason for us to come back:) On our drive we saw this crazy hotel (?) and we were definitely intrigued.

We had to leave early Friday morning so David could go shopping for work. I know tough job huh? It was really sad to walk in a store just to see what everyone else was buying! Later that night we did our fair share of purchasing though! Grant didn't seem to get in the whole "black Friday" thing considering he slept most of the day!

I love Thanksgiving and having the chance to really reflect on my blessings. I often feel unworthy for all that I have been given. I try to appreciate the small and simple things in life and everyday Grant makes me realize in some way how to live a full and happy life. I am grateful for eternal families, for friends, for the gospel and the knowledge and happiness it brings to me. Oh and I am grateful for water parks and Wal-Marts that stay open on Thanksgiving!

7 months

2009-11-23T16:08:00.001-06:00

Stop growing up Grant! Stop it! Man oh man this was an interesting month for all of us. Grant was committed each and everyday to do the impossible---he decided to set a goal of NOT napping for more than 40 minutes A DAY!!! Yes that's right, he figured there was a record that needed to be set and for those of you who know me well you know I am all about goal setting so it was just natural for him to take on this challenge! Ugh! We finally convinced him that Santa is watching his every move and knows if he's been naughty or nice....well that and we realized he likes it to be in the dark, who knew a dark room would knock him out for 2 hours at a time? This sleeping/routine thing has made a world of difference for all of us! Hum just in time for us to go on vacation and get all out of whack again! Sleeping or not we sure love this little guy!

*still sleeps well at night
*holds his right ear and sucks on his left hand to comfort himself
*likes to watch Mickey Mouse
*has started branching out with foods
*likes looking at books/mirrors
*loves to watch David play guitar and has started laughing at us....we really have to work for it but he'll do it!

open wide

2009-11-04T09:41:00.002-06:00

We were planning on giving Grant his first taste of cereal while in CO but he thought sleeping would be more fun. I'm actually really glad we didn't because he was all messed up anyway and to add cereal on top of that would probably be a bad combo. Anyway we gave him some spoonfuls on Sunday and yep it's official the boy is ours-this kid loves food! He kept trying to grab the spoon and had a death grip on it the whole time.

blast off

2009-11-02T12:52:00.005-06:00

What can I say I think this is the cutest lil' costume out there! And the lil' astronaut boy is pretty darn cute himself! We had a fun Halloween, made "crater" cookies and spent the day with friends/neighbors. It wouldn't have hurt to have it be a smidgen warmer out but atleast we didn't have snow like there usually was for me growing up!

I'm excited to be a mom now for all the holidays. I keep remembering all the fun things we did growing up and I am getting excited for when Grant is old enough to enjoy trick-or-treating and counting down the days until Christmas. I know I shouldn't get ahead of myself but I can't help it! It's been so much fun watching him grow!

the big hunt

2009-11-01T17:10:00.006-06:00

Guess who loves to fly...and blow bubbles???

About a week ago we decided to scoot on over to CO to check somethings off our list.

David and his dad elk huntin'-check
Grant has a 1/2 birthday-check
Grant falls asleep during his "party"-check
spending time with friends-check
spending lots and lots of time with family(and seeing David's grandparents)-check
Grant "napping" through the night-check
G gets a cold-check....and still checking that one off
flying from MKE->ORD->DEN->HDN and back-check
Grant sleeping on EVERY flight and doing very well....uh...he did have one teeny tiny 3 minute freak out from Chicago to Milwaukee but after 6 legs of flying I think we were all about to flip out!

We really did have a great time, Grant is still trying to get back to his routine. I'm sure things will become smooth again about a week before we leave for Christmas;)

What was so scary? I look like a deer in headlights! Yikes!

6 months!

2009-10-28T21:25:00.004-05:00

Due to our trip to CO {more to come} this is a little late....Grant is 6 months!!! Man I love this kid! He has been so much fun lately and I know it will just keep getting better...until potty training ;)

weight: 14 lbs
height: 26.5 in

*when he is tired he will suck on the top of his left hand while holding his right ear
*likes to blow bubbles
*still prefers to be outside, while in CO he would stick out his tongue and just take in the cool crisp air
*rolls and rolls and rolls
*usually ends up on his stomach while sleeping
*likes to be held and look around at everything
*has fun and smiles when i bounce him on my lap
*likes books
*puts EVERYTHING in his mouth

the ever so popular "pumpkin patch" post

2009-10-20T08:29:00.007-05:00

There are a lot of reasons why I love Grant but I have to admit that having a baby is the best excuse to get out and do fun things. David and I are no strangers to family events (circus, hayrides, festivals) but now that Grant is in the picture it doesn't seem so silly for us to go! On Saturday we went to this cute little pumpkin patch/corn maze...sure it wasn't the greatest but since this kid could stare at his hands for 5 hours we weren't really too picky!

ooo scary Frankenstein---look he even has fingers growing out of his neck!

checkin' out the corn

G-bug and his new best friend

seriously kid?

2009-10-14T13:48:00.004-05:00

Grant has been a little oh how do you say...uh...difficult today. The poor kid just would NOT take a nap. He wanted to be held, cuddled, kissed etc. etc. I have yw stuff, errands, people to meet etc. and today just wasn't a good day for him to be high maintance. As I sat here with him FINALLY asleep on my shoulder I read a comment from President Hinckley that helped me to understand the importance of my time with him and my calling as a mother. Leave it to Pres. Hinckley to give such a great reminder!

"You have nothing in this world more precious than your children. When you grow old, when your hair turns white and your body grows weary, when you are prone to sit in a rocker and meditate on the things of your life, nothing will be so important as the question of how your children have turned out ... Do not trade your birthright as a mother for some bauble of passing value ... The baby you hold in your arms will grow quickly as the sunrise and the sunset of the rushing days." President Gordon B. Hinckley

and with that being said guess who is awake???

Al's Run

2009-10-10T20:43:00.003-05:00

Since it was so frigid out today I decided to warm up and run the Children's 8k race. What a fun, easy run downtown. I wasn't very familiar with the course and all day I've been doing the "what if" game but there's always next year and I had a fun time so that's all that matters. There were tons of runners and the crowd was great-cheerleaders,bands,goofy outfits etc.

So how does one train for a 5 mile run? Easy you first have to run a decent amount of miles, get proper rest/nutrition and leave your ipod in the stroller! Yep I was about in tears when I realized what I had done! David and Grant escorted me to the bus (they drove the runners to the starting line) and kissed me good bye. I was anxiously waiting for the warm bus to get there when I looked at my empty frozen hands!!! I didn't bring my phone because I did't want to carry it around (I mean who am I going to call while on a run? seriously.) so I had to quickly make friends with strangers and use their phones to call David. After two attempts I started sprinting back to the car in hopes that he would be there, just then I saw the last of the buses getting ready to leave...back to the bus once again empty handed. Stink.

While on the bus I made another "friend" who let me borrow her phone, I could tell she thought I was nuts for wanting/needing my ipod so bad but whatever, not all of us grew up with imaginations while we run lady. I finally got a hold of David and we decided on a place to meet during the race. I have never loved technology more than in that moment. My testimony of cell phones/ipods and my garmin was greatly increased in those few minutes!

Grant and I after the race...poor kid was so cold David had to buy him a warmer hat and gloves...Nike of course! Thank goodness we were downtown with all that shopping near! He still enjoyed being outside with his daddy and was so happy all day! Oh and yes this is my brother's old running shirt from when he was in H.S. or maybe at Ricks! I guess you could say I take care of things ;)

and a 1 and a 2

2009-10-08T12:53:00.003-05:00

Last night for YW we had a music appreciation night. One of the personal progress goals for the girls is to learn how conduct a song. Growing up I remember my mom wanting all of the youth to learn how to conduct and she made sure my siblings and I could properly lead music. I'm so grateful for that and that I was able to share my knowledge with the girls last night. We had a few of them perform for us too, it was so great to see their talents! I was a little nervous about filling our time so I convinced my sweet and talented husband to come wow us with his guitar skills! Oh and his great voice too! He did a great job, it's always fun to hear him play.

I'm so grateful for good music-especially primary songs/hymns-they always lift my mood and help me to feel/think better. Some of my favorite childhood memories are surrounded by music. My parents encouraged (never pushed) us to learn the piano and the one time I wanted to quit I just sat back and listened to my amazing mother play and I was instantly motivated to become better. I know I will probably never play as well as she does but I'm thankful that she continues to learn and share her talent.

Whenever I would be driving around with my dad listening to The Beatles/Clapton/The Eagles he would always point out the "walking bass", or the harmony etc. Often he would ask me to identify what instruments were playing, how many guitars there were, and what timing the song was in. Now whenever I'm driving or hear a song on the radio I always figure out the timing and I too have a love for a good "walking bass line".

I'm grateful that I have in-laws that love music and encouraged their children to participate in singing/performing. They all put me to shame! I love that David still plays his guitar most nights and now with Grant in the picture it is so fun to watch him reach for the guitar, yet sit back in enjoy watching his dad. David and I hope that we can instill a love of music in our children just as our families did.

cut me some slack kid

2009-10-06T17:23:00.002-05:00

Why must Grant fill his diaper like 5 seconds after I change it? Seriously? Um I'm not a fan of that behavior G-man.

they've done it aGAIN

2009-10-02T22:12:00.003-05:00

As if I needed one more reason for G to slobber on my shirt-I bought this fab smelling detergent. I always love clean laundry but there is something about putting on a shirt and taking a giant whiff of this scent that just sets the mood for the rest of the day! mmmmmmm........

OCTOBURRR!!!!

2009-10-01T15:47:00.003-05:00

Boy howdy it was chilly on our run this morning. Grant finally fell asleep but now that I think about it he might have just been too frozen to move around in the stroller. Speaking of frozen, yesterday I literally ran over a dead mouse...poor little guy. Wait what am I saying? Poor lil' guy? Poor me and my shoe! That's gross...moving on.

Ok can I just say how much I love fall-even if it only lasts 3 days! I have always been a summer girl but there is something about all the pretty colors/smells/parties etc. I love mildly-chilly days where the sky is still blue and all you need is a little jacket. However now that Grant is in the picture I'm turning into a freaked out mama who is constantly worried about how hot/cold he is. He loves being outside and we try to get out everyday. I hate to burst his bubble but I'm afraid our time outside is coming to an end. I'm going to need to dust of my creative thinking cap and come up with some fun indoor things to do.

Anyway....I've decided that I want to make something pumpkin-y every week for Oct-Nov. I tried to do this last year but it seemed like something came up and some weeks didn't work out. I think I'm just going to make this a Sunday tradition but since today is the first day of Oct why wait until Sunday? I've got a few recipes that I'm excited to try but any suggestions would be great, so feel free to leave a recipe!

large sharp objects are safe right???

2009-09-23T15:25:00.003-05:00

Well since G is banned from his bumbo he had to get his dangerous fix somewhere. I came in the living room and found him playing under the coffee table and was all smiles!

Being the good mother I am I haven't moved it and he keeps rolling over to it, I swear this thing could entertain him for hours-if it doesn't poke his eye out first! Cheap IKEA furniture seemed like a good purchase at the time:)

5 months

2009-09-22T16:16:00.004-05:00

Man this kid just keeps growin' and growin'. He has been SSOOO stinkin' fun lately. He makes all these cute squeals and sounds everytime David and I are around. I know it sounds cheesy but parenthood really is the best thing in the world! I feel so lucky to be able to play with him all day and watch him learn and grow! We love you baby G!
*He still loves taking a bath
*Plays with his toes/socks all day
*Would spend all day outside if we let him. Bad news kid...we live in WI and winter is just around the corner! If he is cranky we just take him over to the door and he quickly stops because he knows he'll be outside in a matter of seconds!
*Likes to suck on pretty much anything but mainly his fingers or toys
*Oh he is banned from the bumbo....he somehow tucks his leg under and pushes himself out and plops on the floor. Today I found him pretty much doing a back flip over it. Yep no more bumbo-it's in timeout!
*Rolls and rolls and rolls and rolls
*Likes to play in his crib and falls asleep on his stomach or side a lot
*Is starting to giggle when David plays with him
*Still loves his toy cow

No "monthy update" would be complete with a tongue picture...this is so funny to me because he never really sticks it out unless we have the camera shoved in his face!

harvest festival

2009-09-20T19:29:00.006-05:00

Yesterday we went up to Cedarburg for the Harvest festival. It was such a pretty day to be outside walking around as a family. I swear it's the same vendors at every fest but we still like going to all the free events. We are probably their worst enemy because we refuse to pay for parking (but seriously it's like .25 miles away so how hard is that to walk and save $5?) and we usually either don't get any food or if we do we just share something. Oh I guess I should mention that it was "Wine and Harvest Fest" so obviously we didn't drink anything so once again they struck out on trying to get us so blow our money...better luck next year!

We went into two old antique shops (trying to find old sports stuff) and Grant loved looking around at everything, everyone kept commenting on how alert he was. He has always been a very curious boy which is fun now but will probably test my patience in the near future! Relax Grant it's just a tree!

Our sad attempt at a photo shoot

Happy Gran(t)parent's Day!

2009-09-13T19:02:00.003-05:00

Today is Grandparent's Day so we're giving a big shout out to them!!! Thanks for being such wonderful Grandmas and Grandpas.

welcome to my fall!

2009-09-13T18:55:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we walked the JDRF walk at the zoo which was pretty much a free day at the zoo...can't beat that! Grant liked looking around but mainly slept in the stroller. After the walk I was planning on us going to the kite festival...silly me forgot that there was a BYU game. I know I know, it shouldn't be hard to remember that EVERY Saturday is devoted to football these next few months;) Anyway we had a fun time watching the game with friends, besides we need to teach Grant about BYU by example right? I guess there are like 3 kite festivals a year anyway...one of these days! Oh yeah, GO COUGARS!!!