Seeds of the Flower

Happy Love Day and More

2012-02-15T12:52:00.001-07:00

These are the things that have been going on lately. I have not blogged a lot because by the time I can actually sit down for a minute, Xander wants to be on the computer playing Nick Jr. Celia is so sweet and smiley and Xander can't wait until she is big enough to play with him. She puts up with all his "Kisses" on a daily basis. We put them in the bath together every once in awhile and as you can tell by Xander's expression it does not bother him a bit!

A month ago we had our nieces, Teyghan and Kiari come and visit. I had to take a picture of when boy toys and girl toys mix together! They had so much fun playing together! We had Kiari come last Monday and her and Xander had a blast again!

We finally had some snow at the end of January! Xander loved that his coat matched his Dad's coat!

Isn't she lovely! I still wonder what color eyes she is going to have! She has brought so much joy to my life! I am so blessed to have her!

Jeremy loves it when she gives him this little side grin every morning! I am glad I was able to catch it!

Her auntie Tiff made the head band and it is just beautiful!

Love day, AKA Valentines day! Xander was so excited to get his Valentines from Preschool! "Look at all the treats and people that love me!" When he opened up his card from Grandma Johnson, he pretended to read the card and said, "I love you, because it is LOVE DAY," Love Grandma and Grandpa! That of course is not exactly what the card said, but he came pretty darn close!"

Xander and I had fun making his cards for his preschool friends, I cut out X's and he glued them where ever he wanted. He also put the jewels in patterns and I glued them on.

He then, "signed" his name on the back of every card, helped me put suckers and licked the envelope and put stickers to seal it shut! We had a good time! He can write X's all on his own which I think is great for being 3!

We took this Cousin picture last summer and I forgot to add it to the blog, and I am doing so now! All Johnson cousins together except, Wyatt, who did not want to come visit us and Celia, who was still in Mama's tummy!

January

2012-01-25T21:39:00.002-07:00

January.

What is there to do in January. It has not been to cold. It has been warm. Jeremy has not had much work and it has been kinda depressing. He is only working part-time during school but hasn't even managed that because it has been unseasonable warm. We are praying for more work, or a new job, we have been applying like crazy. He is in the M.E program now! Wohoo! We are on the downward track to finish.

BLAH! Xander goes to Pre School and Gymnastics and I kiss on Celia all day long. I have also been doing a lot of Laundry. All the bodily functions going on in little bodies cause lots of washing of sheets and clothes. I do Laundry every Wednesday and Saturday or Sunday and I feel like it never ends. Typical, I know but as of late it seems to get me feeling as such.

American Idol is back and I don't understand the young chicks wanting to kiss Steven Tyler. I base time on American Idol. It is another season and when it is over, it will be SPRING again. Then I am sure I will have lots of posts again of Xander and Celia and I enjoying the warmth. Hurry on January, February, March and April, Mother May and I would like to go outside and play.

I am really praying for Mitt Romney and that he becomes the nominee for the GOP. I listen to the State of the Campaign, I mean Union last night and I felt like I was going to throw up in my mouth a few times. I have never heard a President put down the people that make this country great.

What does "Shared Responsibility" mean. I heard "Fair" "Fair" "Fair" Not once did I hear the word FREEDOM!!!

Life is not fair, but I love this Country because we are FREE to CHOOSE what we want to do in life. No one forced anyone to buy a house. Or take out Student Loans. We are not Lemmings that need the Government to tie ropes around our neck and lead us in the way we should go.

BLAH!

Can I say it once again. January.

Photo Shoot

2011-12-30T19:45:00.002-07:00

We took Xander and Celia to Sears for some photos today!

I was really impressed!

I love that they got little Celia to smile!

Love this little ones with all my heart.

December Happenings

2011-12-29T13:53:00.001-07:00

Xander Hanging up his first Christmas Ornament that he made at Preschool

Xander getting to sing at his Preschool Performance

They sang Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer first

Xander with his Best Friend Caden that he met at Preschool

ZOO LIGHTS!


Jeremy took a picture of almost every display

They were really fun to see, and Xander loved the tunnel like displays

Can't wait to go again next year!

Xander and his stocking

Note from Santa

EDWARD! Tidmouth Sheds and Edward is all he asked for

Celia watching Xander open presents

Our present from my Mom and Dad! Getting closer to being done with School. GO JEREMY!

Xander and Tidmouth sheds. He is getting good at getting his own clothes on in the morning

Xander's first snowshoeing trip

Xander eating snow

Xander snowshoeing

2011-12-27T20:33:00.000-07:00

Here is a short video of Xander Snowshoeing. He had a BLAST!!!

Ward Christmas Party

2011-12-06T17:16:00.001-07:00

Our Ward Christmas Party was on Saturday night December 3rd

They asked Jeremy and I to play Mary and Joseph and Lucelia was asked to play Baby Jesus

She was a sweet little baby Jesus

I wish I had a picture of the Manger scene with us standing by it. Absolutely beautiful. My Dad was one of the Three Wisemen.

I am so glad that the Broomfield Ward still has Santa come to see the kids at the end of the party.

I remember Christmas's from my youth, waiting in line in that same building to see Santa.

It is fun to be back and enjoy the same traditions for a couple of years.

Xander loved, loved and may I say LOVED Santa.

He cried when he had to leave the Jolly old Elf.

Xander is asking for Tidmouth Sheds and Edward, (Thomas the Train Toys)

Santa was a little confused on who "Edward" was, so I said it is a Thomas Toy, to Santa. Santa said, "Oh you want a Thomas Toy"

Xander received his Candy Cane from Santa and about 5 minutes later, I found him with big tears streaming down his face. I asked him what was the matter and he said,

"Mom, I need to see Santa again, you told him I wanted Thomas"

"I have, Thomas, I want Edward"

I then had to explain that "Santa" knew you had Thomas and wanted Edward but he was not convinced and Cried the whole way home until I explained that Santa was "Watching" and he caught onto that pretty quick and the crying ceased.

I am real excited this year. My first year of my little believer. I hope I get a believer for a long time.

I have been waiting for a long time to give the Magic of Christmas to my Child.

Merry Christmas!

Lucelia Jannet Johnson

2011-12-04T15:30:00.001-07:00

Lucelia was able to be blessed on Friday along with her cousin Chance.

Her Cousin Lily was baptized. It was so wonderful to have all the family together to be here for this special event. It was amazing. Jeremy did a wonderful job on the blessing and Lucelia looked beautiful in the dress made by her Grandma Johnson.

Dearest Lucelia

I am so glad you came to our family. Already your spirit warms my soul. I am so happy all the time as of late and I know it is because of you. Like I tell your older brother Alexander "Xander", every night before he goes to sleep, "You are my treasure from Heaven and I am so glad to have you." Lucelia, I feel the same about you! Rubies and Diamonds are nothing in comparison to you sweet beautiful little girl. My Treasure! I am so blessed.

Love Mom

In your blessing circle:

Jeremy Johnson (Dad)

James Downs (Grandpa)

Jeffery Downs (Uncle)

Matthew Downs (Uncle)

Ryan Johnson (Uncle)

Michael Brown (Uncle)

Steven Maxfield (Uncle)

Ty Reese (Cousin)

Surrounded by strong priesthood holders my little Lucelia Jannet Johnson! May you always Remember who you are and that you are a special princess of our Heavenly Father!

Family Party

2011-12-04T15:22:00.001-07:00

All the Grandchildren, parents, and Grandparents were together Friday night

When we danced

We ate

and watched Family Videos

From each family.

I loved it!

Good Job, Mom and Dad!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-04T14:21:00.001-07:00

Thanksgiving at the Parker Downs House!

So much FUN!

Everything was so beautiful!

I loved being around my family and having all the cousins together.

Everyone had a wonderful time. Xander loves his cousins so much. I love my sisters so much. It was wonderful to have them here to see Lucelia and support me and give advice and shower with love and gifts.

I am so thankful for the knowledge I have of the plan of salvation and eternal families. My Mom shared a story of Steve Jobs, the President of Apple whom recently passed away and as his family gathered around him in his last moments, he was reported saying, "Wow, Wow, that is amazing" He saw his family that had passed on before him coming to greet him.

As I was gathered around my family over Thanksgiving, I had similar feelings, wow, wow, this is amazing. It makes me excited for the party in the afterlife when I am able to gather with family that I knew in this life as well as the ones I have not met.

There is so much to look forward to and enjoy!

God Bless us everyone!

Chicago Downs

2011-11-29T16:48:00.001-07:00

Living with the Parents does have some pluses, one being that we get to spend time with cousins. He had a blast with the Chicago Downs crowd. They came the earliest of everyone, so it was a lot of fun. Xander is right between their last two, Colin and Halina, so when he wasn't playing with one, he was with the other, or he played with both.

I love all the cute shots I got.

Parent Day at Preschool

2011-11-29T16:42:00.001-07:00

Did you have a happy Thanksgiving?

We had a very eventful weekend. I love my family! We are so blessed.

I was able to attend parent day with Xander at Preschool where we made this necklace and hat! It was fun to see him at Preschool with his friends. I am so glad I was able to get him involved in this sweet little Preschool. He has a lot of fun I think.

Daddy and Me

2011-11-14T08:38:00.001-07:00

I thought this was funny that I have similar photos with both kids.

Child #2 and still trying to finish school.

We will be done someday :)

First Sunday

2011-11-14T08:30:00.001-07:00

I bought this dress with my Auntie Margret and my Mom in September. It is so tiny. I knew she probably will maybe only wear it one more time. Then I am finding a doll to but it on so she will have it forever and know that she was that small to fit in to it.

I love having "Kids" I have two! Xander loves his sister so much! "One more kiss" "Two more kisses" he loves to kiss her and rock her in her swing.

Life is so wonderful!

Preschool Parade

2011-11-14T08:22:00.001-07:00

Xander had his first Preschool Halloween. It was November 1st because he is a Tue/Thur kid.

They also sang their songs but as you can see from the picture, the Teacher sat in front of my son blocking my view. Dang it! Xander was his normal star of the show self, when the sang a song about closing your mouth so little bugs don't get in, he said very loudly after the song,

"I let some bugs in"

After every song, he also said,

"Your clapping Mom, right? You are supposed to be clapping"

What a fun kid!

Halloween

2011-11-13T17:02:00.001-07:00

Xander was excited to be Yoda. He wore the same costume as a 1.5 year old We had to pin it and it drug on the floor but he was adorable, This year as a 3.5 year old it fit perfectly. So it received good use, Abram, Natalee's little guy wore it last year. We did go and buy him a Light Sabor. Jeremy took him to Target and they only had RED and BLUE ones. Xander told Jeremy that he had to have a GREEN one because Yoda has GREEN.

So Jeremy took him to Walmart where they had 1 GREEN one left. Xander found it, and was so excited to have a GREEN ONE!!! A GREEN ONE!!!

Xander drew the face on the Green pumkin and Grandma cut it out for him.

We decorated the Temporary door, with Wooden Halloween cut outs that Xander painted.

We took him Trick or Treating and we made it to about 10-15 houses and then he was ready to go home. He walked the whole way and everybody Loved him of course.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Big Brother Love

2011-11-07T15:09:00.002-07:00

This was Xander's first sign of "Brotherly Love"

Left the room for 5 seconds and came back to find my little girl

STICKERED!

I am sure this is the First of Many

Happenings

2011-11-05T08:53:00.000-06:00

Life at the moment is a little crazy. But we have taken some shots of the Random things that have been going on. Xander went with his Dad to Anderson Farms! Jeremy said we have to go again next year.

My Dad has been working on refinishing the door at their house and Xander has enjoyed the Temporary door that he was able to put his Preschool projects on. My Dad Soda Blasted the door and a ton of baking soda made it's way into the house. Xander had a blast playing and drawing with the soda on the floor.

A few days before Celia made her debut, we also were able to attend the baptism of Teyghan, Jeremy's younger brother's Daughter. It was a great time! Xander enjoyed running up and down the hill at the church, picking flowers and playing with his cousins.

Birth Story of Lucelia Jannet Johnson

2011-10-23T19:15:00.001-06:00

"Dear Heavenly Father, Thank thee for this day. Thank thee for our blessings. Please help Mommy have baby Celia naturally."

Xander, Jeremy and I prayed for a natural birth for Celia for nine months. Xander heard these words nightly and soon on his own was praying too. The doctors knew I wanted to VBAC and the doctor who delivered Xander gave me a 90% chance to VBAC, but we added Heavenly Father to our team and hoped for the best. On my 40th week appointment, my doctor wanted to schedule a C-Section. I asked for an induction and she agreed to induce as long as I knew the risks. The appointment was set for October 20th at 6am. I knew my biggest factor in having a VBAC was to go into labor naturally. I did as many "myths" that were healthy to encourage a natural labor. The biggest one that I enjoyed the most was a 60 minute massage that included reflexology to encourage labor.

Flash Forward to October 17th 2011, 5 days over due. I woke up with contractions....4am. But this happened with Xander. I had contractions every day for 7 days with Xander that would stop. So I thought this could possibly be the same thing. They were coming pretty regularly every 5 minutes for 30 or 40 seconds. So I called the doctor and she said to come into the office for a Labor check. They put me on the monitor and the Doctor came in and said she would admit me. Start the IV to keep me going and break my water.

Wow! I was going to have this baby.

Labor was long. Started at 4am from home and baby Celia came at 12:05am Tuesday morning October 18th 2011.

The baby was having troubles, similar to Xander once I reached a dilation of an 8, and the Doctor who was the Doctor on call and not my regular Doctor, which I think actually turned out to be an AWESOME thing, was supportive of my VBAC but was concerned. I was a 9 at 10pm and the Doctor gave me an hour and then she would make the decision to C-section or not. Jeremy and I were sad and our hopes for a VBAC started to diminish and I was feeling really sad that I had labored all day again.

At 11pm she came in with the nurse and they said they were going to do some "practice pushes" to see how things were going to go. She worked with me, and as I type this I am tearing up, because I really appreciate what this Doctor did for me. She worked my body in a way that I was able to have this baby naturally. She said my cervix was "different" which was making it difficult for Celia to make her way through the birth canal. I gave really good pushes, Jeremy was there to support me and after an hour and a half of pushing.

Little Celia made it into this world and I can't stop smiling.

Life is good

2011-10-06T19:40:00.001-06:00

I am 39 weeks Pregnant.

We are getting very excited for Little Lucelia to make her face known.

Clothes are bought.

My milk is in.

I am so excited for my little monster

to have a small

friend.

He is going to be such a wonderful big brother.

He had a test drive last weekend when Aunt Emily and Uncle Aaron came to visit.

They have an 18 month little boy.

Cousin Miles.

Xander was all over bringing drinks and toys

and feeding tootsie rolls.

To his little friend.

(Well not so little, as they are the same height) :)

Project Monster was done at Preschool today!

His teacher told me he was a very polite little boy.

He says his "Please and Thank you's" very well!

He was also the "Line Leader" today!

Had an apple pinned to his shirt that said

"Leader"

Phew! Glad he is not throwing sand.

A Kindergarten Story

2011-09-29T19:51:00.001-06:00

Clown Swing.
Scooters down the hill.
Water Table.
Block area.
Orange and Green buttons.
My Strawberry Shortcake Shirt.

These are a few "Snap shots in my mind" of my Kindergarten years. One snap shot I remember vividly for some reason is drawing in pudding. We were given a plate of pudding and we were supposed to be creative and finger paint in it and for some reason...I was not feeling very creative and drew the # 27 and spent the rest of the time sneaking a lick of pudding while the teacher was not looking. I remember later that day overhearing the teachers being very disappointed that I had drawn a # and not a picture. Then my 5 year old self felt bad.

So a couple of days ago...Xander and I were playing in pudding and I decided to do a "Make Up" from my uncreative Kindergarten experience.

I titled it, "My Kindergarten Teacher" HA HA!

The Little Boy

2011-09-26T18:52:00.002-06:00

"Take a picture of me Mom"

These are the words out of the little Man, who has learned to finally ride a trike. So maybe in a couple of months he can ride that bike he won.

He has opinions about what he wears and the CU hat is one of his favorites as of late....Despite the fact it is still 80 degrees outside.

He is loving Preschool and his Preschool projects, which he likes me to take pictures of.

He is becoming such a little Man, who is excited for his little sister to come. If it is indeed a little sister. For some reason my Dad still thinks it might be a boy! HA! that would be funny!

Broomfield Optimist Clown Contest

2011-09-24T08:43:00.004-06:00

14 years old.
I told my Mom and Dad that I was going to dress up as a clown
and win a bike.

I am sure they thought I was a little old, but being the supportive parents they are,
agreed to take me to the contest.

I don't recall how I heard or new about winning a bike.
My parents never dressed me up as a child and took me
to the 8am contest in Midway Park for Broomfield Days.

But at 14, I was going to enter. So I dressed up and I looked good
REAL GOOD!

I was sure to win.
I was A Lot taller then the mostly 6-10 year old clowns that stood around me. But my eye was on the prize. A new bike and I would fit on it. Who cares that I was 4-8 years senior then the rest of the contestants.

When the judges made the announcement of who was the winner and
a six year old jumped for joy.....

My dreams of new bike were shattered.
I knew somehow someday I would get even with this contest
that I should have won, had I been 4 years younger.

Flash Forward 20 years later.
We are in Broomfield.
Have not attended Broomfield days in 12 years
But then I remember the CONTEST!

My son, a much smaller, cuter clown is going to enter.
And with a Toddlers and Tiara's parent like attitude
I dragged my kid to the park at
8am, dressed like a clown
to win a bike.

I made Jeremy paint his face.
And we were off.
Xander was happy for about 5 minutes at the park and then started saying,
"I want to go home"
So in true parent coach fashion, I said,
"Don't you want to win a bike"
"No, I want to go home"
"I will buy you a new train"
That kept him quiet for another 10 minutes before he started saying it again, and again.
I ignored him and really hoped the contest would get going, so the judges could see my cute, happy clown.

"I want to go home"
My Love and Logic parenting kicked in, as I started to feel guilty that I was forcing my child to do this contest so I could live vicariously through him.

So I said, "Xander, you don't have to do the contest but Mama wants to watch the other kids, then we will go home"

This kept him quiet for another 10 minutes until finally the contest got going at 8:45am when the contest was supposed to start at 8am. His age group was up first, so I said
"Xander, the other kids are going up on that stage, do you want to go?"

"Yes!"
Music to my ears!
He went right up there with Dad and hearing his name announced was music to his ears because he started dancing and gave the crowd of parents and judges a good chuckle.

That is my boy!
We were a shu in for the first prize.
And he did it. He won. The bike for his age group was his,
and the 14 year old clown in me who was in that same place
20 years ago
Smiled!

Xander Goes to Preschool

2011-09-15T17:41:00.002-06:00

I signed Xander up for Pre-School!
Here he is with his very first
Assignment!

So far so good. The First day that I attended with him he was a bit of a crazy kid. This is what I posted on Face Book.

Xander's first Day of Preschool. Went as follows. Cried during the singing of the "Wheels on the Bus" Said "I don't want to sing this song". Ripped up the puzzle Mat on the floor. Kicked a little girl during story time and shot her with his finger gun. "Bam, Bam, Bam" and threw sand at a little boy on the playground.
And I thought I was raising a sweet little boy with "Love and Logic" I can't stop crying today.

Here are some comments I received

Tiffany Downs Brown Were you the teacher? Are you doing joy school? If so, he probably doesn't like sharing you.
September 1 at 9:52pm via mobile ·
Jannet Downs He just misses grandma
September 2 at 1:00am ·
Hannah Brown McKay When I was in preschool I told the teacher that she was stupid and I stuck my foot in the popcorn bowl...I also threw a rock at a girl and told another girl I was going to rip her earrings out....I turned out alright...ha ha ha
September 2 at 11:18am · · 1 person
Nichole Johnson Thanks Hannah! I feel a lot better now! No Tiffany, I was not the Teacher. I am sending him to a little Church Preschool down the road and they had Parents come the first day. I asked him, later on...Xander why did you cry during Wheels on the Bus and he said, "I wanted to play with the toys". I said why did you throw sand at the little boy and he said, "I did not like his Cowboy boots" Oh well. I guess we will just see how it goes :)

Well I am happy to report that going by himself without me watching is probably the best thing for him. I am trying not to be an over protective Mother that corrects every little thing the little guy does. But sometimes I do.

He has been put in "Time Out" a couple of times. But I really hope this is a good experience for him. He seems to enjoy going and is happy when I pick him up. So I hope things continue to get better.

Camping with the Firestone Families

2011-09-15T17:28:00.003-06:00

For the past two summers we have gone camping with some families from Firestone. It is a lot of fun! They are really cute with Xander "The older kids" and it is a laid back time.

I did not get any pictures of us out on the lake in the
Canoe that we rented. Xander LOVED it! But going camping at 7 months pregnant was a pretty good accomplishment so I am proud that at least I got a few pictures of us hiking. I am also sad that I did not get any pictures of any one else. But hiking was the only time I remembered my Camera and they all were way ahead of the little Prego and went down and played in the river.

We went up to Grand Lake Area which is where we went Back Packing Last Year.

It is one of our favorite spots so we were glad to get up there again.

I can't wait until next year!
Last weekend in August is when we go!
I will have two little ones to enjoy the mountains with.

Xander Speaks

2011-08-05T12:07:00.003-06:00

Xander has reached the age where he starts to say cute things. And what comes out of his mouth makes me grin or smile. I thought I would write a few down so I won't forget.

1. "Holy Cow Meat Balls"

2. "Grandma, Where did your hair go?" When Grandma J came out without her wig on.

3. When he says the prayer at night, "Heavenly Father, please bless the ketchup. Nooo that's not right." "Heavenly Father, please bless the food." "No that's not right, there is no food" His little jokes with Heavenly Father! I am sure he understands his humor. :)

4. "Where's my cup to Pee in" When he was at the prenatal appointment with me in the bathroom.

5. His favorite song to sing, "All the Single Ladies" By Beyonce

6. When Dad asks him what we do to Prairie Dogs, "Shoot them and Pigeons too"

7. When asked, "Whatcha doing?" "Chillin like a villian"

8. "Guess What?" "Chicken Butt", "Guess what word." "Chicken Pants" He asks the question answers it himself and laughs.

9. He knows various statements from the movie Cars, When asked what Mater says, He says, "GET ER DONE" and one for many of the other characters in the Movie!

10. "AWESOME!!"

The Rock Star

2011-07-25T19:55:00.004-06:00

We have really enjoyed this summer. All a sudden in a blink of an eye. My boy is a little kid. He is Potty Trained and continues to amaze me every day. He doesn't even need pullups at night. He wakes up dry and loves his little potty.

With Potty training has now come taking off his clothes. Putting them back on is another story. Like the picture with the flag. He took his shirt off and was running around with his shirt off. Every time I went inside today, he would rip off his clothes, swimsuit, or underwear.

We played outside long and hard....So hard that he took a long nap...Much like the day above when he played long and hard at swim lessons and fell asleep on the Bar stool after dinner. He never did that as a baby so I had to take a picture.

Xander and I painted a picture together today. He had fun putting colors all over and then I made a picture of it. The finished product which is not pictured turned out pretty cute. It was fun to paint together and let him do whatever he wanted and then I made it artistic...(for me anyway) Jeremy wants to paint with Xander now...So I am sure their picture will turn out even better.

I then decided to pay homage to the Hot Summer Day. Every day when we go outside, Xander says, "Wow, Mom, it is a HOT SUMMER DAY"

So I painted a little Sun on
the son
.

Simple days of Nothing...that mean a lot of Something
to my memories are absolutely wonderful!

Rythmn on the River

2011-07-09T19:01:00.005-06:00

Jeremy and I discovered this outdoor festival that we love in Longmont. They have lots of activities for Kids to do for free! It was fun for me this year, because Xander is getting older and able to do some more stuff.

He wanted to try all the outdoor stuff. I was thinking he was too small to do the boats, but he totally held his own. He even tried to move the heavy paddle.

I am so thankful for "Free" stuff that I can introduce my dude to lots of stuff. There are so many wonderful things that Heavenly Father has given us to enjoy. I love summer with all the festivals and outdoor concerts and "Free" things you can do.

At this time in our life, where we can't go somewhere for a vacation, does not mean we can't "vacation", Jeremy and I like to talk about this, how we know people that will put vacations on Credit Cards, and spend money they don't have for Vacations.

Vacation is enjoying time as a family, so when you don't have the money to GO somewhere does not mean that life still can't be fun.

Don't get me wrong, I hope one day to be able to take my family to New York, Washington D.C, and maybe even Hawaii and I really think a Cruise would be fun.

But if we can't afford it. I am perfectly content finding tons of really fun stuff to do in Good ole Colorado!

1st trip to the Dentist

2011-07-09T18:48:00.004-06:00

Xander was a Gem at the Dentist! I am constantly amazed at what a good kid he is! The Hygienist was impressed that she was able to do a full cleaning on his teeth.

He was very excited to get his "Treasure" at the end for doing so well. His favorite part was the "water sprayer" and the "sucker" which happen to be my favorites too. If I were wealthy I would furnish both of these in my home for my personal oral hygiene.

He also enjoyed going up and down in the chair. Simple life and simple pleasures.

Brush your teeth with really cold water!

Say Cheese

Because you will cause it makes you feel so good!

4th of July

2011-07-07T21:09:00.002-06:00

My Brother Jeff and Family live on the coolest culdesac EVER! Every year they have a HUGE 4th of July Party and all there neighbors put it on. My brother Jeff DJ's the event, they rent a big Water Slide. They rent a Snow Machine with 24 different flavors, Popcorn, and a big BBQ with REALLY GOOD FOOD!

Xander loved going down the slide, eating flavored ice, and chillin like a villian in the Barbie Corvette with his cousin Bowan. It was so funny watching the two boys go around and around the water slide. Bowan in the drivers seat and Xander chillin in the passenger seat, eating popcorn. I am glad I have pictures for Highschool Graduation and his Wedding! He is going to love these when he gets older.

We left after dinner, because the 4th being on a Monday, we both had to get up and work Tuesday. So we came home and watched the good ole Broomfield Fireworks! Which were pretty good this year. Maybe because they had some stored up from the show being rained out the past 3 years.

Happy 4th of July!

Sunday Dinner for Xander

2011-07-05T20:03:00.006-06:00

So I really wanted to make two different cakes that I found on coolcakes.com, so in order to have two cakes I needed to have two parties! So we invited any family that could make it and had a party! I bought Xander, and his cousins Bowan and Miles matching outfits, 4th of July style and they all looked so cute.

These are some real live events of the things that took place. No one was really interested in having me take their picture in their matching outfits so I did the best that I could.

Someday I will capture really good pictures. I am just thankful for everyone who came and the good times we have as a family. I am also greatful that I live in this country and the freedoms that I have.

Good Bless America!

P.S. On a side note, so the morning after this party, Jeremy and I woke up to find Xander at our door with cake on his face. He had waken up early and devoured more of his cake, as you can tell from the picture. We also found a Banana Peel on the floor. He said,
"I ate Banana and Cake for Breakfast"

Day in Estes Park

2011-07-04T13:23:00.003-06:00

We decided to take Xander up to Estes for a Birthday present so he could ride in the Cars and go down the slide. Jeremy and I love going to Estes and Rocky Mountain National Park, so we would rather go up the mountains rather then doing the same stuff locally.

Xander had such a good time. Jeremy said during the Race Car ride, he kept saying "Honk" "Honk" and "Were #1"

He went down the slide 3 times with Dad and could have gone more. We went to our new favorite pizza place "Poppy's" which was super yummy. I had a Ham, tomato and Basil pizza which was so delicious, I like that they use olive oil. Once our tummies were full we drove up to RMNP where Jeremy was hoping to fly fish at one of his favorite places but the water was too high so we ended up going to Sprage Lake where Jeremy was able to catch a little bitty fish and Xander gave it a kiss!

Xander was really exhausted after walking around the lake so we decided to go home instead of getting ice cream to end the day, so I guess we will have to go back again.

Xander Birthday Video

2011-07-01T22:46:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Xander 3 years old

2011-07-01T18:40:00.007-06:00

These pictures are all from Xander's 3rd Birthday. I debated whether or not I wanted to have a "Friend" birthday party for him or not, but where we are living with my parents right now and Xander really does not have any play dates with anyone yet, I decided to wait until he is 5 when he is more into "friends" We had a perfect day though. I couldn't of asked for a better day to celebrate my little boy.

We went over to Annie Tanner's house who is my cousin. We were going to go swimming but we opted to just run through sprinklers and play. Annie bought us lunch and made Mac and Cheese for the boys. We then had the most delicious cupcakes that she had bought. They were so good! Xander picked a chocolate one with a doughnut on top.

We ran through sprinklers and played in there new sandbox that was totally awesome! Annie bought some Acrylic paint that she heard was good for painting faces and painted a Dino on Kaiden, Xander wanted a Train....but that did not turn out as well as we wanted. So we did a Dino on him as well.

Xander had a great day! I am so lucky to have such a party girl cousin that we live by, that helped us celebrate.

Jeremy met us at home and we had Arby's for Dinner and then had cake and opened presents. We bought Xander a Thomas set, that we had him open last, and he was SO EXCITED! He did not even want to eat any cake, he just wanted to play with his new toys!

That is my boy. Two years in a row, more interested in the toys then the cake!

I did really have fun making that cake though. I made it a couple days before his birthday, and put it in the freezer. It tasted really good too! So while Xander played with his new stuff, I ATE THE CAKE!

Happy Birthday Xander!
Your Dad and I love you so much and are so glad you are a part of our life!

25 Weeks pregnant

2011-06-26T16:04:00.004-06:00

I have not really talked about being pregnant, well I am! I have been feeling really good, so I am pretty fortunate. Just the normal tired and it is no fun that I can't sleep at night on my tummy so I toss and turn in lots of different directions and drive Jeremy crazy! :) I flip at night so my feet are at his head and my head is at his feet. I don't know why I do this when I am pregnant, but I do.

We found out we are having a girl! We found out on June 8th which is also Jeremy and I's 4th Wedding Anniversary, so it was a special treat!
We decided 90% that we are going to name the little princess
Lucelia ______ Johnson
The middle name is up for debate still. We were strongly considering Autumn as the first name but Jeremy was looking through names and we came upon Lucelia and both fell in love with it.

Once again as with Xander, I like the 2nd half of the name and will call her Celia. But I love her full name as well.

Little Lucelia we are so excited to meet you! Xander talks to you, he tells me to lift my shirt so he can say hi to the baby and tell the baby to keep growing stronger and bigger!

The Johnson family is very happy. We feel so blessed with the opportunity to have another little addition to our family.

Happy Fathers Day

2011-06-21T17:15:00.004-06:00

When I met Jeremy, he was already a Dad. Not something I ever imagined but I was just turning 29 and was mature and so seeing my future husband father children was an assurance for me.

He wanted more children, with me, which is another reason why I love him and by watching him with his, I knew that I was getting a good man who loves his children.

Xander and Jeremy are getting to be good buddies.
He tells everyone that he is going to go shooting with his Daddy and Daddy Loves him.

Happy Fathers Day to a Great Dad!

And because he is such a good one, I went down to King Soopers got his favorite thing copied on Rice paper and made him a CAKE!

Yes us crazy Johnsons ate a Cake with a picture of a DEAD FISH on it!

It did not taste "Fishy" at all!

Grand Lake

2011-06-21T17:00:00.003-06:00

This Past weekend we packed up the Car and headed to the Mountains again. We took a two hour drive to Grand Lake, Granby Lake area just outside Wonderful Winter Park where I spent a week every year as a kid skiing and staying at our friend's the Holiday's cabin.

I love the area. Jeremy took the kids up to Adams Falls, which was the first part of the backpacking adventure we took last year. It was a bit rainy, so Xander had to wear his "Rain Coat" which once he had on, had to tell everyone that we passed on the trail, that he had his "Rain Coat on" Everyone of course stopped and made a fuss at what a cute little guy he was!

He is getting quite good at the funny faces and I have a feeling most pictures are going to include funny face pictures now.

I did not get any pictures of the kids and Jeremy fishing, but they did try, they were skunked though. We did "CATCH" a picture of a Moose, heading up the road to some cabins.

And We did "CATCH" a bite of some of the best Mountain Pizza around at Beau Joes in Idaho Springs. And Xander of course had to shoot the guns while we were there.

It was another nice "Vacation" Weekend!

Sunday Picnic

2011-06-21T16:19:00.003-06:00

My Boy and I chillin on the Rock

Roasting on the GRILL! Red-neck Style BABY!

Eating hotdogs Red-Neck Style

Xander eats them that way all the time anyway so no big whoop for him!

The short little jaunt from the car to spot was a lot better then the hike up the road to the lake.
It was a beautiful day for a picnic!

Funny Faces

2011-06-21T16:04:00.004-06:00

So since we came home Saturday night, already had "Subs" for the Primary class on Sunday, we decided to still go ahead with the Weenie Roast and more Marshmellow roasting that was supposed to happen on Sunday.

Jeremy picked a spot called Brainered (SP) Lake that had picnic spots with Fire Rings so we could do a roast. We headed up there only to find out that the road was closed to get right to the lake due to construction. We unloaded everything and started to walk when we realized it would be a 2 mile trek and we were only carrying our fishing stuff and so we would have to carry our fishing stuff, turnaround and hike back down to get the food and then turn around and do it all over again to get the stuff home.

Luckily on the way up, I saw a spot along the River, that had BBQ Grills, not exactly fire pit to sit around but we could still roast, so we headed back down the mountain to still have a picnic. We didn't get to fish, but it was Sunday anyway, so it was ok.

So these are our Funny Faces because it turned out to be quite a funny day, because things were forgot at home.

Buns for the Hot Dogs and Crackers for the S'mores.
Our curse for skipping church and having a picnic
on Sunday.

More Camping

2011-06-21T15:48:00.002-06:00

These are some more images from our Camp spot and our Day at Lake Estes with Cousins. Xander is always sticking his hands in his pockets. I love the image his Aunt Laural took of him and the cute little smirk he is making. Miles his cousin is about the same height as Xander and he is just a little over 1 years old. He is going to be one tall boy.

We made the most yummerific dinner the first night we got up there. Tin Foil Dinners, with Meat, Potatoes, Mushrooms, fresh green beans and Cream of Mushroom soup. They turned out divine! We then had S'mores with Strawberry Marshmellows and Almond Butter, Not as good as Nutella but Jeremy wanted to try something different so it wasn't bad.

I was worried about Xander tripping into the fire, him sleeping in the tent with the kids, and not in a pack 'n' play in our tent as he did last year, and worried about him getting cold.

But he did great! Makenzee and Dylan put him in the Middle of them and he was as snug as a bug in a rug :)

It was a really nice trip. Although we did come home one day early, because I had a terrible head cold, but alas it worked out to our advantage because we headed back up to the mountains the next day. :)

Summer Fun

2011-06-15T13:07:00.003-06:00

It is always fun when Cousins get together! Jeremy's family is a Fishing family so Emily, Aaron and little Miles and Laural, Teygan and Kiari met us up in Estes Park, while we were camping at RMNP! Despite being all stuffy from a head cold. (I never get sick) why sick on the fun trip! Ugh! We all had a great time!

There is just something about Dirt, Water, Sun, and Family that makes me happy and content.
I am glad we were able to get away and enjoy God's Beauty for a couple of days.

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-14T21:03:00.003-06:00

It was a Non-Stop Cousin party and Xander was in Heaven to be with all his cousins. "My cousins, my cousins," is what he said all weekend long. Natalee came with Steve and family to run the Boulder Bolder. It was so much fun to have the kids here and cook good food and PLAY!

Jeremy of course made yummy food for Breakfast and Dinner. I love his homemade pizza and he did yummy chicken and Steak and of course the classic Hamburgers and Hotdogs.

Jeff , Jami and Family, came on Sunday and Monday and it was a BLAST! I love that family so much. There kids are so sweet and such good examples to Xander! I love being with them.

I am a little bummed that I was not able to participate in the Bolder Boulder festivities but it was still a nice Memorial day weekend none the less. I am very excited to be able to have another baby! I am glad I am 1/2 way there. I can't wait to add another little addition to our family.

I am so blessed to have sweet Xander and just like I did with him, I wonder what this new little one will be like. We will see.

A neat experience

2011-06-04T17:07:00.003-06:00

I am not afraid to admit, that I am a "Mama's Girl" and a "Daddy's Girl". I love my parents, I am blessed to have some very, very good ones. I know that I am 34 and live at home with them again, and I will admit, I am having lots of fun. I think I understand cultures where families do live with each other a little better then I used too. It sure is nice to have extra hands to cook, clean and pay attention to your children (child). I know that sometimes it is easy to become offended when you think someone is trying to parent "Your" child or tell you what to do. But lucky for Jeremy and I, we don't get offended very easily and I like the way my brothers and sisters turned out, so my parents must have done something right, so I welcome the advice and realize that my parents want the same for my children as they did for theirs.

I am not saying that I want to live here forever and Jeremy and I are very excited to be back in our little home as quickly as we can, but I am going to treasure this experience and learn as much as I can.

My Mom and I have been reading the scriptures together. We have been reading 8 pages a day most days for the last couple of months, and I know why we are supposed to. It does make you feel better, want to be better and generally make you happy. We have started in the New Testament and I am really enjoying it. Our Goal is to read all the standard works in a year, and according to an institute guy, that came to speak in our ward, by reading 8 pages a day, we can do it!

Hunger and Thirst after Righteousness. For some reason, in my life at the present, I am spiritually hungry. I think partly because my parents house is like a Deseret Book. They have so many really good Church Books in the house that I have been able to enjoy. I read "Reflections on Sister Marjorie Hinkley" awhile back and that was a really good parenting book. It is not written as a parenting book, but so many of the examples that people gave about her, was how she parented. She is a really good example to me and I hope to be like her with my children.

I was also able to go to the Temple today. My parents work at the Temple and I was blessed to see both of them. The Temple is such a busy place on Saturdays that I was not sure I would see them. I saw my Mom right when I walked in and then I went to my session and when it came time to go through the veil, I could hear my Dad's voice and even though I could not see him, I knew that it was him, and I asked the Temple Worker if I could wait and go through the veil with him. It was a special experience because he did not know it was me, till the end! He said he is concentrating so hard on the words, right now, because they are new workers, he did not know it was me. But it was a special experience when he saw that it was me.

My husband is also very wonderful. While I got to go to the Temple, he spent the Whole day putting in an Air Conditioner for my brother Jeff's family. I am amazed at his willingness to help and serve those around him. He made Dinner for everyone the whole Memorial Day Weekend while my Sister Natalee was in Town. Homemade Pizza, Chicken, Hamburgers and Hotdogs, Grilled Steak, oh yeah, and yummy Breakfast in the Morning.

I am feeling very blessed today.

Life is good.

What's been going on

2011-05-22T14:47:00.003-06:00

May has been a rather rainy month, thus far... but despite the rain,
we have been having fun painting....

Going to the Zoo! The Flamingos looked especially pink under a cloudy sky!

We went to a Rockies Game! Xander was a gem! He loves music and dancing and the game was exciting, so he was completely entertained the whole time! And he was FREE! 2 and under can sit on a lap so we were all able to go and take Xander!

The row ahead of us, won some prizes for the Lotto, and the "Balls" were in our area! Xander loved them! And charmed all the young workers. One guy said, "Your little guy and his personality is what makes my job worthwhile." We had a fun family night at the game!

And of course, Xander has been turned into a computer junkie...the almost 3 year old can completely navigate and play pretty much play all games on the Nick JR website. And if I am not careful, he has been known to play for 3 hours straight.

But he is pretty smart because of it. He has knowledge of Letters, Numbers, and Shapes!
And he plays on the computer while I work on the computer, so then when I am done, we go outside and play :)

Turtle Pool

2011-05-09T16:43:00.005-06:00

Xander was really not into playing in the turtle pool.
At first he was in clothes...
but they were getting wet, "I don't like that"
So I got a swim diaper that was a little small.
"I don't like this swim diaper"

Then I just put him in his swim suit, without a swim diaper.
"I don't like swimsuit" As he tries to pull it off with the high pitched whining...
Think, Nichole, Think!
Distraction....when complaining starts, my instincts tell me to distract, change the subject, scenery, interests.

I spied the orange plastic slide. "LIGHT BULB" little slide that will fit in little pool...
SUCCESS!

Swim suit stays on.
Enjoys wearing swimsuit.
Goes up and down and up and down
and enjoys, very warm day at the pool.

I enjoy sticking my already starting to swell feet in cold water.

What a great day!
Now to think of something to do tomorrow.

OH Yes, just so you all know, I did not buy this plastic. Although it is very fun plastic.
You know how much I don't like Big plastic toys.
So Turtle Sandbox, that I use as a watering hole, was found on the side of the road, that someone was throwing away, and Orange Plastic Slide was given to my Mom by my Sister Cyndi.

SO We were Very GREEN with this find, as I prevented Big Plastic from going into a Land Fill!

Monster versus Tower

2011-05-07T11:28:00.003-06:00

Mighty Police Man protects Tower

Teeth are clinched to keep Monster away

Monster invades City

City is destroyed

But because Police Man is a member of the LDS Broomfield 2nd Ward. The City is completely rebuilt again and Police Man gets Dinners for a Week to protect the City
Once again.

Home Birth

2011-05-02T16:04:00.003-06:00

Life is great!

I am feeling better and food has never tasted so wonderful. I still have not been to the doctor, but I feel good so hopefully everything is going good.

By the time I get in, it looks like I may know what this little one is going to be. So I have an appointment with a Midwife on May 11th. Which means this maybe a home birth baby. Crazy I know, but I am 85% sure I want to have this baby at home.

I was C-sectioned with Xander and I just feel that if I go to a doctor, that will be my fate. Some hospitals will not even let you VBAC. I was completely healthy with Xander and did not feel like I had to be C-sectioned. I just think it was the easiest and quickest route and because I was strapped down to a bed. I was not allowed to move around and help him out.

I kind of look at it...Like training for a marathon or sky diving, or traveling alone all around Europe. There are risks and possible things that could happen and I know it may hurt a little more then an Epidural birth, but I am strong and I really think this is something I would like to cross off my bucket list.

Plus...I am told it can be a very spiritual experience. Maybe I will understand a little what it was like to be a pioneer and have a baby in a tent.

I am just so excited for Xander, to have a teammate. He loves people so much. We have "Unofficial Playdates at Mc Donalds" Where he always makes friends with whoever is there. We go at least 1 time a week.

I am also thinking of teaching a preschool for him next year. I just need to find 4 or 5 kids to join him.

Ranting and raving

2011-04-27T13:51:00.003-06:00

So I am going to do a little complaining....

So, Jeremy has a job. I have a job. At the present time neither of our jobs have Health Insurance Benefits. So we sacrificed and got our own private health insurance, so we are covered. At 610.00 a month that covers Jeremy, Xander, and I and the 3 step children.

Jeremy was married before me. His wife at the time divorced him. She did not want to be married to him. Bless his heart, he would have endured to the end despite the fact he was not very happy in the marriage. But he did not want a divorce. (Now he is happy he got one) :)

We pay $858 a month in Child Support + 150.00 a month in Health insurance for the children. Which takes a big chunk out of our income every month.

So I am pregnant, and Maternity is not included in private health insurance. I look into Medicaid to help cover the cost of our pregnancy as in the application it states that you can deduct expenses like Child support and health insurance premiums. With those deductions, We very much do qualify for some help and support.

We get a letter in the mail saying we were denied because we make too much money. I call, thinking they do not understand that we pay almost 1,000 dollars a month in child support. First of all, I get a response that they don't believe We pay it. So I print out bank statements from the past year stating, We do very well pay child support, faithfully every month.

Then today, I get a call, that even though we pay $858 a month in support. We only get a $50.00 credit for that payment making us still over the income limit so we do not qualify.

So I am understanding why so many "Dead Beat Dad's" out there just don't pay child support.

You get no tax credit, for dependents since they do not live with you. (Not by our choice, by the court)

You get no appreciation for making the payments to the X-spouse as they see it as their right. And they are entitled to "their money".

And now, all the money you do pay, you only get credit for $50.00 that you do pay. So does that mean, I can keep the $800.00 to help support my family. So it is fair to make one family suffer so another family receives "support".

Ok....Post edit.

Learned that Medicaid and Chp are two different things.

We qualify for ChP based on our income, but, because I have Private insurance, even though it does not cover Maternity. We are not qualified. So if I would have spent the money on a Health Club Membership, cigarettes, etc..... We would qualify and I would have insurance to cover my pregnancy. But because I made a responsible choice to cover our family COMPLETELY out of pocket.

I do not qualify for help even though I have no insurance to cover Maternity.

So I am praying seriously about having a home birth. It is a little scary for me. But Government programs don't work.

Easter Sunday!

2011-04-26T19:11:00.003-06:00

Loved the outfit I found at JC Penny. (On Sale) :)

Loved watching Xander find eggs in the Living Room.

And the big Cheeser he gave with every find!

Loved having Jeff Downs family come over for Easter,
So Xander could have someone to share his "Big" sandbox with.

They played in this box for a good 2 hours. So I guess size really doesn't matter. :)

Easter Egg hunt and Dying Eggs

2011-04-26T18:59:00.003-06:00

This was Xander's first year of Egg Dying.
He was not to shabby, although by the end, most of his eggs looked like the color eggs are supposed to be. A nice brown hue, due to the transfer from color to color.

The first dip...

Don't most people color the eggs while they are being dyed?

We mostly enjoyed the experience..Vs being PC in Egg Dying technique.

This is the one shot I got of Xander at the Eagle Trace Egg Hunt. It was Snowing. There were a lot of kids and they didn't break it up in age groups. So Xander got a big 2 Eggs...Where some of the other older experienced egg hunter kids I think carried out buckets of 50+. But he was completely thrilled with 2 eggs and really, does it matter? When he is 7 he can come home with 50+.

It is all about enjoying the moment. Which despite the snow. He did.

Easter Gifts from Grandma and Grandpa Johnson

2011-04-26T18:46:00.003-06:00

We don't get to see Grandma and Grandpa Johnson a lot, but that doesn't mean we don't feel the love from them. Every Holiday they always send a little something for Xander. Xander LOVES it! He got some yummy treats and a little wind up Monkey and Lightning McQueen!

Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Johnson!
We appreciate your kindness.

Missing your siblings

2011-04-23T07:16:00.002-06:00

This is an older picture taken last Summer....but now that Xander is talking and improving his vocabulary, he sure does mention Dylan, Makenzee and Wyatt a lot. He prays for them and asks to call them on the phone, and knows what is there stuff that is here at our house. "Dylan's Legos" , or Wyatt's trains.

Yesterday he wanted to call them and I said, "We can't because they are at school"
And Xander said, "No Mom, they are in Utah, Utah Mom"

I am really excited that we are bringing another member to this team, because I think Xander is going to be an awesome big brother!

Thomas the Tank engine (2 year old story)

2011-04-19T17:41:00.000-06:00

Pre School Activities

2011-04-19T14:22:00.003-06:00

So just in case you were curious...This is what the gun looks like...Still missing a few components but isn't it scary looking. So if it ever comes to the end of the world
and you need Military Home based protection. Jeremy "Rambo" Johnson would be here to protect you.

While the other parental unit..builds guns with Xander.

Mom does more preschool like things...like today we mixed flour, water oil, cream of tarter and salt to make a wonderful mixture of play dough.

Whoops they were put in the wrong order...Here Xander is making the dough...
above enjoying his creation.

Or puts sand in a storage bin and creates a little sand pile for busy hands to play with outside on the deck. Yes it is messy, yes it gets on the deck..but my philosophy is 3 hours of pure joy and play...and 10 minutes of clean up for me. Is worth it.

So I hope the warm weather comes back so we can enjoy the Sand some more :)

Sunday Dress Up

2011-04-10T15:07:00.003-06:00

No, it is not Easter yet...but looking through my Mom's old pictures....it always seems we took a picture on Sunday. So in Downs tradition and since Xander always looks so darn stinking cute in his Sunday best! We snapped a couple!

He LOVES his Grandma!

My Treasures! I love them soo much!

Helping Dad/ Jeremy is Cool

2011-04-10T15:00:00.003-06:00

Xander loves it when Jeremy gets the tools out. He loves to be right there fixing and building.

Jeremy has been slowly buying parts to make his own AR over the past 4 years. For those of you not familiar with Gun language that is Automatic Rifle. He is getting pretty close to finishing, dang it. :) I guess it shows his true man genes, because he also is really good at sewing, painting my toenails and making pillow case dolls.

Jeremy you rock! I am glad you can enjoy your AR very soon!

Xanderisms

2011-04-06T20:27:00.002-06:00

A cute little Xander time
happened today,
He Had a little fall and came my way.

I was eating chips and he came to me all sad.
So I offered him one hoping it would get rid of the bad.
I told him "This chip will make better"

Well he did not put that chip in his mouth.
He put it to his bum.
And said, "Yes mom chip made it better"
And then he ate it up
Yum Yum Yum....

Conference Weekend

2011-04-01T11:23:00.002-06:00

This is a comment I left on a blog, C Jane that I read..... in response to her video of What I know.

Well this is what I know :)

Thanks for sharing this! I am glad I know what I know too... And because I have such a strong testimony and faith in my savior Jesus Christ. When I read other comments that question my beliefs. I am glad that I have a testimony of prayer, knowledge of the scriptures that I can search, ponder and pray and once again be reconfirmed in my beliefs.

Heavenly Father answers prayers, Loves us and wants us to return to him.

Joseph Smith was not perfect but Jesus Christ is and that is whom I look for my salvation.

Joseph Smith, Bless his heart, was called as a Prophet of God and I know he was and I am thankful daily that he was who he was and for having the courage to bring the restored gospel to the Earth. So that we can truly understand the divine mission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

I am so excited to enjoy the words of our precious treasures, the 12 apostles and the first presidency this Weekend!

God bless us all

Fishes

2011-03-28T19:07:00.002-06:00

I really enjoy the Aquarium in Denver. There is something calming about watching fish swim in big tanks. We had a very nice time. Xander was not as excited about it as he was when we had been before, when he was 1. About 1/2 way through he said, "Ok, Bye Bye Fish" "Enough Fish" "Enough fish".

But he did enjoy, Squishing pennies and putting pictures on them. He loved turning the crank and watching the penny go around.

Aquarium

2011-03-28T19:02:00.003-06:00

There is nothing quite like the simpleness of a Bubble Machine
to make you happy!

He makes me happy!

Dillon was such a good sport to play in the bubbles with Xander

The higher you are, the more bubbles you can get!

More Weekend

2011-03-28T18:53:00.003-06:00

Xander really enjoyed having his brother come and visit for the weekend.
He wanted nothing to with Mom and Dad for the weekend.
It was all about Dillon. Dillon was very kind to Xander and they played
Legos, Adventures, Cars, Trains, and he even let Xander sleep with him.

Xander loved every minute.

I know I can be bitter about certain aspects of this crazy life of mine, but these kids are great!
They are so sweet and really love and care about Xander
and that makes me happy!

Weekend

2011-03-28T18:46:00.003-06:00

There is nothing like a good Cupcake to make you happy.

My friend, from High School has an awesome little Bakery pretty close to the
Denver Zoo that we are probably always going to have to go to
when we are in the area.

THings that make me go hmmm

2011-03-26T08:25:00.002-06:00

We have a visitor with us this weekend! Xander is in Heaven!

But something just makes me go hmmmm....

Child tells us that he received play station 3 for Christmas, ipod touch, plus he was flown here to Denver with Mother. Mother is staying in Marriott, and rented car for the weekend and then flying home with child on Sunday.

Family A pays Family B a big child support check every month, that makes Family A qualify for Medicaid.

Yet Family B, claims they make only $15.00 an hour, has not had a raise in 10 years and her Dad is her Boss.

Yet Boss can afford to give child 25,000 for down payment for house, Takes family on Disneyland Vacation every year, Has Lifetime membership in Condo club and 5+ Season tickets to University of Utah football games, which they also go to away games.

But Family A is paying almost $1,000 a month in child support because Family B makes so little.

And that is why sometimes things make me go hmmmm......

But I am thankful for my testimony and knowledge of the Gospel and I know if we continue to be honest, pay our tithing and do our best. We will be blessed. And like I told Jeremy the other night, I would rather have a wonderful husband and father for my children then "things".

So if family B, feels good about how they report their income and what they are doing, so be it.
But sometimes it just makes me go hmmm.

A Picture Post

2011-03-25T15:32:00.003-06:00

Xander has really been into imaginetive play lately like the other day when his trains picked up Crayons and took them places or the crayons were something that caused all the trains to crash.

The Red cup was his Water Tower (with no water in it) That would dump on the trains as they got crayons and the stack of letters with the dice on top was part of his city.

While Xander played, Mama got her toes painted.

By her loving Je Rem Yi

Not to shabby Mr Yi!

And last but not least we have been enjoying a good supply of this.

He has a bowl pretty much once a day. Big bag of frozen blueberries in the freezer from Costco and fresh strawberries while they last!

I am so thankful that my son enjoys fruit. Loves fruit. Sometimes will eat 5 or 6 clementines in one day and has taught himself to peel them.

I really think that is why he is so healthy and rarely gets sick. I looked up blueberries on the web to see the health benefits and it said that it BUILDS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM to fight off common colds and the flu. Well knock on wood but Xander has not had a serious illness or even really bad cold since his short time on earth and I think it is due to his fruit loving nature. He eats some kind of fruit everyday.

I have been so blessed. I think Heavenly Father also knows how much I hate anything to do with Hospitals or such, so he is sparing me the pain.

Education

2011-03-20T14:03:00.002-06:00

I have been thinking a lot about education and teaching and the problems going on. My friend is a teacher in the Adams 12 district and the parents had a candlelight vigil to mourn the loss of funds. She linked the news story on facebook and I watched it and it made me think. They have to cut money from the budget. 30 million to be exact. So in protest parents went to a designated meeting place and lit candles as a funeral for lost "things".

Of course on the chopping block is "No Middle School Sports", "Parents pay for textbooks" and cutting 130 teachers. When I heard the sports thing, I had a flashback to my Middle School days (20 years ago) when the threat to cut sports was made because of budget shortage and all the kids signed a petition and then we were going to do a "Walk Out" to protest and all these other things...and you know what? Sports did not get cut, I think some extra fee was added to pay for the sports and everything was fine. So it just got me thinking...Why are these always the first things to go, "Sports", "Teachers" and "Textbooks". Things that directly impact the students and their success in education and desire to stay in school.

I think it pulls at the heart strings of the public. and the Districts, (Administrators) end up getting what they want in the end.(More Money). I am sorry, but when we can't afford things and cuts need to be made they need to be made. But why always go for the things that actually benefit students and their success in education.

I think we could cut some fat out of the administration starting from the top down. A few less Principals, secretaries, and counselors. Yes, I would like to be able to keep everyone, but when you don't have the money to pay, things have to go. So why are Teachers always on the chopping block first. The ones that directly effect the students that our tax dollars are going for.

But would it be as easy to gather a bunch of parents to light candles if they said they were going to cut the few to many "Vice Principals"? or put a cap on their salaries? Nope don't think so....

Another thought, ok so, you keep the administrators and get rid of sports and class sizes increase because of Teacher cuts, and you have to pay for your textbooks.

Parents, it is time to step up. So no sports. Start a in school sports team. 3 or 4 teams could be created within one school. Therefore increasing participation and exercise within the school. Sports can still be a part of a Middle School without the cost.

Less Teachers. Looks like more parents need to volunteer. As a teacher myself. I could set up several small groups and easily instruct a volunteer to lead that small group. And as a parent myself, I do not put the education of my child fully on the Teacher. It is my job too. Maybe the best thing the parents could have done to mourn the loss of education is to read your child a book or help with homework. Not go stand and light a candle to blame someone else for a budget short fall.

Textbooks. How many textbooks are really needed. My favorite English teacher from Highschool once said that if everything was taken away, she could teach a kid everything they need to know from the Dictionary. Newspapers, the internet, the Library. We have so much access to information that if textbooks had to go, I think we could make due without them.

I hate cuts...personally I would rather cut some other programs ie...Planned Parenthood etc...and give all money to education.

But I hate Debt. I hate that our country is going further and further in debt and I don't like it. But if things have to go. They have to go. So be creative and deal with it.

The Easter story in Plastic Eggs

2011-03-13T17:10:00.003-06:00

It is not even Easter yet....I love how it is going to be later this year. A little warmer, Maybe Xander can wear a cute Easter outfit with shorts this year..

But my Mom and I made these cute Easter Stories in Eggs. My Mom sewed the bags and I did the eggs with the scripture and a story. We made them for my siblings families...and we have to mail some of them, so that is why we got an early start.

If you are interested in creating one, just Google Mormon Easter Story in Plastic Eggs.
All the cute Mormon Mommy Bloggers explain in detail what to do.

But it is amazing how doing something about Jesus can change your mood. I was feeling so
awful a couple days before and focusing on the Savior and doing something for someone else
got me out of my funk a little bit..

And Friday I went to the Mall. I love Flatirons Mall. They have a clean play area for Xander. Pottery Barn for Kids has a Lego table that Xander can play with and I love drooling over the cute ideas in that store. I only got suckered into one thing. The Kiosk with the nail buffering. (Have they stopped you and made only your thumb nail shiny?)

They got me. With their never ending gushing over Xander and how shiny they made my thumb. I bought the kit, for thirty dollars. (I figured it was the same cost as one mani-pedi and now I can do my own ) And I now have 10 super shiny nails with their buffering stick, cuticle oil, and file.

Jesus and the Mall. My sure fire way to feel better!

Lists

2011-03-11T15:13:00.002-07:00

I just feel like crying today.

Probably cause I am pregnant and I am tired of the pain. When I was pregnant with Xander, I couldn't eat anything.

This time, if I am not eating every 2 hours, I feel sick, but I hate eating. Nothing seems good. So I cry trying to think of something to eat so I won't be in pain.

I need to get out and try and make friends, but have no motivation to do so. I wake up at 6am-Work for American Envoy until about 12pm and after that I have little motivation to do anything.

I did put on make up today.

I am obsessed with Toys. Like I worry about Xander losing pieces, so I am constantly organizing and counting to make sure he has all his trains, cars and legos. Is that weird?

Jeremy is doing well in school. I just feel like it is never going to end. But we do only have hopefully only 4 semester left after this. But is it ever going to end....

I need to get back to doing my story blog. I was having fun with that.....Then maybe I won't feel like crying anymore.

Nature Walk

2011-02-28T15:37:00.002-07:00

We are here. We are living, or as I have chosen to look at it, taking a two year vacation visit to Broomfield. HA! Xander has adjusted well to the change. Loves having 3 levels of exploration to keep his active mind busy all day long. I set his train table up down in the basement and he goes down and plays all by himself down there! So much fun!

Today we went on a Nature Walk. There were a ton of Geese outside on the Golf Course and Ducks in the pond. We tried to go feed them. But they ran away to the other side of the pond and then the Golfers came so we decided to go on a walk.

Xander has been into buckets lately. He carries a bucket around the house and picks up whatever he finds around the house and puts it in his bucket. He had his bucket with him on our walk and as we went a long, he would stop and pick up rocks. As we were going, I noticed he kept going slower and slower, and his face getting redder and redder. His little bucket was full of rocks. Once he couldn't take anymore steps with his heavy bucket, he dumped it all out. Took a few more steps to a new rock pile in someones yard and started picking up new ones.

I tried to convince him that pine cones were pretty cool and a lot less heavy. He did one bucket of pine cones and went back to rocks. 3 times of filling up and dumping out as we walked around the block.

It was a good time. We also met a new friend. Some Grandparents a few houses down have a little guy, Cooper, that they watch everyday, that they would like to have a play date with Xander.

I think things are going to be ok. We miss our home and our space. But things are going to be ok.

I am so thankful.

We are going to be able to keep our house.

We are going to pay off our Lawyer bill

We are going to pay off Xander's surgery he had two years ago.

We are going to pay off, School debt and not have to take out anymore, which will leave us in a very good place when Jeremy is done with School.

So thankful!

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-13T12:19:00.003-07:00

For Valentines day this year, we decided to take Xander to Crack Pots in Longmont to do some Painting. He has really been into painting lately and thought he might enjoy it.

He did really well for a two year old. He was focused, and actually cared about getting all the colors he wanted on the train. Which included, Percy Green, and Thomas Blue, and James Red.

All the colors at our house, are "Thomas the Train" colors. I have even thought of away to avoid "character tee's" I just don't like big screen print Thomas shirts. So all of our shirts are "Thomas color shirts" Like I say, Let's put on your Percy Green shirt today. "Nice plaid button up" So far it has worked like a charm. But he is still only two and once one Grandma buys him some Thomas Tee, I think I may have to start pickin battles.

But that was a different topic.

Back to painting...... I painted a tile. They are cheap, and I don't have to feel bad if it is not a master piece. And then I really don't want it in my house anyway. But Tiles are cool. Maybe I will tile a wall in the basement one day with all my tiles.

Xander painted a train and Jeremy painted a Spoon Holder, I broke the one he painted on our Honeymoon on accident, and it sat broken for like 5 months while I was waiting for Jeremy to find a "special glue" to glue it back together, so I just threw it away. He was kind of sad, and then I felt bad. So he painted another one yesterday. Hopefully he forgives me now.

I just hate broken junk lying around. Do you blame me? And after 5 months, I didn't think the "special glue" would ever be remembered.

Anyway, in other news....The test came back "positive" and it looks like TEAM NICHOLE will be up 1.

Happy Baby in OCTOBER if all goes well!

Snow

2011-02-09T19:06:00.002-07:00

We have had a only a little snow this year.
So when Dad came home a little early yesterday
Xander wanted to go out and help shovel.

He loves the element. The neighbors came out too and at one point they were throwing snow around and Xander got it, right in his face.
No crying. No complaining. Just the words. Mom. Snow. Face. Off.

And then went right back to laughing and playing

And of course helping Dad.

Spike

2011-02-09T18:53:00.003-07:00

Sometimes you just feel like a Rock Star

A Model

Or just 2.7

Paying Tithing and Jeans

2011-02-05T13:12:00.004-07:00

New clothes are wonderful. I have been thinking about clothes this last week. I had "Healing Minds" Come and pick up a bunch of clothes, that are old and I don't like wearing them any more, and as I look at my closet I realize how much it has shrunk over the past 4 years.

I remember being in my mid twenties and going to Target (I know Target, but I could get more clothes) and just buying whatever I wanted (most of which went to Healing Minds yesterday). I was always coming home with more and more clothes.

I would go to DSW and buy 5 pairs of shoes. They were happy times, but also lonely times as I would mostly go alone when I had nothing to do on a Saturday.

So now I am almost in my Mid 30's and I was thinking about my favorite items in my closet,

Which includes, A pair of black boots (That were given to me by my friend Korri about 4 years ago)

A pair of Jeans (That my niece Nicolina wore in the 7th grade,(she is now in College) that she gave me)

A dress Annie Errebo Zolman gave me when we were roommates in Salt Lake. (10 years ago)

A purple shirt that my sister-in-law gave me that she said was too small for her.

The Three dresses that my husband has picked out for me as birthday presents, One each year over the past 3 years. That is my "New" Shopping Spree. Also, the only thing I really go out for is church, so that is what I love dressing up for. (I know pathetic, but we are pushing forward to get out of this pathetic stage.)

As I sit hear thinking about my closet and clothes, I remembered a few weeks ago when, a High Council Man gave a talk about Tithing and he said, "If you pay your tithing your clothes will last longer." He went on to tell a story about his suit, that he had for 20 years, because he was a poor Teacher and his wife stayed home with the kids, and he would always get compliments about what a nice "new" suit he had and how good it looked on him.

I think that Heavenly Father has blessed me greatly in much the same way, We have always paid our tithing and Child Support. And We don't really have a lot of extra funds right now for lots of clothes, but I am happy with my simple Wardrobe I have, I am also thankful that I get to be with Xander, and it is my choice to be poor, to be with him. I know that, I could work full time and have more money to buy clothes, so I am not complaining.

I was able to lose weight pretty fast after Xander and be able to fit in clothes (like Nicolina's jeans). And my clothes have remained ok style wise, so I don't look like a complete dork when I show up to church, in the dress Annie gave me 10 years ago.

God does provide and he does take care of us. So the next time you see me in my cute boots, you will know why they look so good on me!

A new idea...a new blog..

2011-02-01T18:09:00.001-07:00

So I decided to change my other blog. It used to be a blog where I would post for Jeremy's kids from Xander. They never look at it..So it was old and boring and so a few days ago, I was thinking, I should video tape my self doing stuff. So then one day, when I am gone and my kids have kids, they have videos of me doing stuff. I am also going to record, my Mom and other people and just make it a fun blog. (in time)

Right now, I am just going to read my favorite books aloud. When we move to my Mom's house I will have the opportunity to use a better camera and a tripod, so I will be able to show pictures.

But I wanted to start....So I posted one today. As you can see. The other blog address is www.loopykids.blogspot.com

Hope you tune in. If you want to be featured reading your favorite book, I would love to have guests. Record yourself on Youtube reading a book send me the link and I will put you on my site.

Helping Dad and Day out with Xander

2011-01-22T13:31:00.002-07:00

Today, Xander went out with Jeremy and helped him change the oil. Laid down beside him and watched him the whole time. It reminds me of when I would go out and help my Dad wash the car. He would give me a toothbrush and have me clean the small parts of the wheels. I love the Dad and Son moments.

Jeremy had class last night, so Xander and I went and met him for lunch at Beau Jo's in Boulder, for our "Date night". Then since we were so close, we went to "Flatirons Mall"

I have been spiking Xander's hair lately so he looks like a "Rock Star". Everywhere we go now, we get complements about how cute it looks, so it must be a good "do". We played in the play land for like an hour, went to the Disney Store to look around, rode the escalator at least 10 times and then went and rented "Babies" and ate cake and drank big glasses of milk for dinner.

It was a great evening...

Island of Sodor

2011-01-19T20:48:00.002-07:00

So a few days ago, I was reading my friend Amy Bringhurst's blog, and she talked about how her little boy who is the same age as Xander is sleeping in a regular bed. So, by inspiration, I decided it was Xander's turn to sleep in a bed. We already have Bunk Beds in his room and the bottom one folds up like a couch, so it is a perfect little bed for him.

He loves it. Has not slept in the crib since. We are going on a week now. And only once, the second night, did I find him on the floor he has not fallen out again. I can't wait to take the crib down! Since we are moving soon, Mid February and the crib does not belong to us, we borrowed it from my Sister-in-Law Laural it will be good to get rid of.

He also is out of the High Chair. He sits at the table with us. No booster seat or anything. Just his little head that pops barely over the table.

And for some strange reason, since these two changes have been implemented this last week. He has become, "Polly Anna Boy" Have you seen that movie....where the little girl is sweeter then sweet? That is how my son has been acting. Everything I ask is "Okay Mom". Okay, Okay.

A few weeks ago...it was "NO WAY".

He is just so Chipper. He is eating better, letting me change his diaper, I can work and he plays with his toys. It is so strange. But Jeremy and I are loving our boy like crazy. It has been so easy.

Jealous? I would be. Life has been easy lately with this dude.

Except he is still trouble like most 2 year olds.

He broke a glass in the dishwasher
Dumped out a whole bad of Cheerios on the floor
and we did paint today (which kept him occupied for a whole
2 hours. Can you believe that? A two year old who painted for two hours.
He is going to be an artist.)

And while I was on the phone, of course, he dumped out all the paint water every where.

Actually all the above things happened while I was on the phone.

So he is still a 2 year old. Just a very sweet one.

It started snowing today, and I was feeling like Xander should do more then watch Thomas on Repeat on the T.V.. Or Thomas on You Tube. So we got out the Water Colors and we painted.

SO MUCH FUN!
He actually painted and did not make all the other colors black by mixing them all together. Which I was completely prepared for. And like I said, Two hours. It was all good until the dang phone rang.

Tomorrow, I just might do play dough.

Renting our house

2011-01-13T14:15:00.003-07:00

Someday I will be a grown up. I feel like I am waiting for that someday for a long time. Sometimes I feel like my life is like a treadmill. I am running and running and working hard and staying in the same place, going nowhere.

We have made the decision to rent our house and move in with My Mom and Dad for a couple of years so Jeremy can get his Bachelors Degree and hopefully get a better Job that will provide a little bit easier life for us.

I really wish it didn't have to be this way. I could go get a job and teach, and then could we stay? Maybe, maybe not because then I would still have to pay for Day Care and Jeremy still has to work and go to school. So we really would not be making that much more money.

We could stop paying Child Support at 1,000 dollars a month and get sued by her and her lawyer and Jeremy then would have to go to Jail. So that would not work as well.

Jeremy could quit school and work two jobs, so we could stay in our house, and then I would never see him for the next 10 years.

So I guess we are moving in with Jim and Jannet. Thank goodness they are nice enough to let us move in. We still haven't found renters yet. Just people looking, some that want to rent, but we don't want to rent. It is a frustrating situation and I really can't wait until the two years are over with and hopefully Heavenly Father will bless Jeremy to find a good job and then maybe just maybe....

I will feel like a grown-up.

How to keep the kids asleep on Christmas Morning

2011-01-02T17:39:00.002-07:00

Christmas Day

2011-01-02T17:32:00.004-07:00

More from the Wedding

2011-01-02T17:21:00.003-07:00

This Temple was really COOL! Lots of lights at night for Christmas!
It is one of the top 10 temples built so the art work was amazing!!! Also, the Endowment Session was pretty cool! I liked climbing the stairs to the Celestial Room! Not a live session but you changed rooms to the veil room, which was pretty neat!

I was at Hannah's Blessing, Baptism, endowment, and sealing! First person I was able to witness all events for! That was a wonderful experience for me! My niece is such a good example that I will be able to tell my Xander and future little ones about!
We have such a good family!

More from the Wedding

2011-01-02T17:09:00.003-07:00

The Dude was loving the Warm December Weather
of Arizona!

Loving Everett even more!

The Wonderful Jeff Downs Family!

Xander and Uncle Steve

Beautiful Sadie Kay!

The Wedding

2011-01-02T17:00:00.003-07:00

Some Random Shots from
The Wedding
of
Hannah (My niece)
and
Will (Her Groom)

All the Brothers and Sisters

The Brown Family

Sophia NICHOLE Downs

What my son did most of the time...
Needless to say we were at the reception for 25 minutes
before giving up and going home.

I did make it to the most important parts and for that
I am eternally thankful

Christmas

2011-01-02T16:56:00.002-07:00

This was the Fire Engine Santa Cop that came down the Street the night before Xander and I left for the Wedding of Hannah and Will!

What a great Santa! The Beard was Real!
No tears for the Dude either!

Cheers!

Thomas Town

2010-12-08T15:55:00.002-07:00

So Xander never really got the 18 month toys to 2 year old toys. We had toys from Wyatt at our house and I am all about buying the least amount of "plastic" as possible. So he jumped from sucking on toys to 3 year old toys and hasn't complained one bit.

Jeremy and I had a huge Thomas Track set that we had bought for our house about 5 years ago. It had been taken apart and put together all over the house for years and Xander has been really into it lately. Jeremy would set up different tracks for him around the house and he would just play and play.

The only bad part. I hate plastic. So I would have to pick it up to have him want it out on the middle of our floor again. I had bought a train table off Craigs list awhile back and contemplated getting a wood track set to glue to that so it would always stay. But I didn't want to ruin the table and I already had all the plastic Thomas stuff. And the wood stuff is a small fortune.

Xander LOVES the Barns and Nobles that have Train Tables and screams bloody murder, when he has to "leave island of sodor, Thomas". We experienced the carrying your crazy screaming child out of the Book Store over Thanksgiving weekend. The whole store new that he did not want to leave the "Island of Sodor"

So Jeremy and I were trying to figure out a portable city. One I could easily move, And we could glue plastic tracks down.

Home Depot. Styrofoam siding. Awesome husband who made a city and glued it all down.
It is light and I have moved it already between 3 rooms. Glued down like cement and so far pretty durable. And wohoo. Island of Sodor in the house

Quote from Xander, "Wow, Dad AMAZING"

Love you lots Xander!

My Birthday

2010-12-04T09:29:00.003-07:00

On Wednesday it was my birthday. I am now 34 years old. For some reason I have always had an issue with Birthdays. I am happy with November 30th and then again on Dec 2nd but for some reason. December first is supposed to be a Publishers Clearing House kind of Day, because I was born, I have very high expectations that the whole world should drop everything and shower me with gifts and pay homage to me. I know, I am a nut, but like I said on December 2nd this strange disease goes away.

So as you know, There is not a national holiday, or parades held in my honor, but this December 1st although was not a particularly bad birthday, it just was not the best day ever. Xander had thrown up the 2 days before and was still feeling yucky and tired still. I worked most of the day and did enjoy looking at how many people posted on my "WALL". "Facebook, has not helped with my Birthday disease, as now, I count wishes posted on my wall like I counted Halloween candy when I was a kid. Jeremy had to work all day and then had school. I was supposed to go to a treat exchange party that a gal in my ward was having, so I made the treats, but did not feel good about leaving a sicky boy with a babysitter, and my Mom is on a cruise.

So I stayed home, and was not very nice to my husband when he came home. He did do nice things for me and treated me special Thanksgiving weekend, and bought me some cool new craft stuff that I have been anxious to try. And gave me a very sweet, romantic card. So I was very much spoiled and loved. It is just my disease that the actual December 1st was not the best day ever, so I freaked out.

Then I felt awful because I was so mean.
I hate that part of me.

So December 2nd, I went to get me haircut. I was actually supposed to get my hair cut on November 30th but Xander was sick so I changed the appointment. I have been wanting to get my haircut for a long time. Actually about 2 years. I went to a place in the Mall last Christmas and they did an ok job. I wanted to go to a Salon in Utah when we were there last summer, because they are cheaper in Utah for the Aveda ones but we ran out of time, My Mom hacked my hair with Paper scissors in September to get the dead ends off. I just have been struggling to find time and motivation to make an appointment and go.

I found an Aveda Salon and figured I was just going to shell out the $65 dollars and go. I love Aveda. I love the way it smells and makes my hair feel. The best part is I found out that the Salon in Longmont host students there, who have already been through school, but need to earn hours to be Aveda specialists. So I got a $60 dollar haircut for $20!!! She was awesome! I knew right away, that she was going to do a good job because I loved her hair.

I said, "I want mine to look like yours" which I think was a good match and compliment because she spent over an hour making my hair perfect. She gave me a Head and Shoulder massage before my cut. "an Aveda thing" which is why I love their salons.

Any how. The point of the story is. Haircuts at Aveda Salons are therapy.

And my husband now knows where to send me next November 30th and maybe the December 1st disease will not come on so strong next year!

Christmas Tree

2010-11-28T19:55:00.003-07:00

I love Christmas! We put up the tree today. It is a magical time of year!
I hope to give Xander that magical feeling
of Christmas my parents gave to me!
When I was just two!

God Bless us, everyone!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T19:33:00.002-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Xander was such a good little guy this Thanksgiving. We went to a friends house for the big Turkey Meal! He was so happy and fun and did not say, "No Way" not even once!

I am so thankful for him. He brightens my day. He has this little owie on his finger that I have been kissing for the last 2 weeks. "kiss it" he says over and over and over!

I have such a wonderful happy life. I am happier then I have ever been in my life so far, and I have had a pretty wonderful life, so I must be really happy! I have the things I have always wanted. A loving husband, a child to love that is my own, and my strong testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ. I am so blessed in my life!
It is him that I owe

Oh and Thanksgiving would not be complete without my little turkeys! I love making these little guys! Next year, Xander can help me!

My little Artisit.

2010-11-28T19:21:00.002-07:00

Xander is becoming quite the artist. He loves to draw. He is going to be a left handed little guy and already holds his pen quite nice.

Circles and lines are his specialty. Today in church they were resembling Suns, but in my abstract view, I think he is drawing pictures of his beloved Mother. His sunshine, shining star, most bright light! :)

He just goes on and on!

But like any great artist. If it is not perfect, it is not worth saving.
Rip. Rip. Rip.
and on to the next
master piece.

Messy Xander

2010-11-22T14:24:00.003-07:00

This is a younger picture of Xander, I think he is somewhere around 8 or 9 months old. But looking through the pictures, this one caught my eye, because we are in the Mess phase of life again.
So, he is ripping up paper into small pieces and leaving them around the house. Found the "Cream" for his bum, Vaseline style, thank goodness, and squirted it out all over his toys and then all over the couch.

He loves to draw. I will actually have to take a picture. He lays on his belly and draws little circles all over everywhere (on paper). Pretty dang good for a 2.5 year old, if I do say so myself.
But then like I said before, he likes to rip up his paper when he is done.

He says "NO WAY" very well.
Nap. "No Way"
Bath. "No Way"
Dinner. "No Way"

He used to love his bath. Not anymore. The only way I have been able to get him in is if I dye the water blue or green or yellow. My sis-in-law gave me these tablets last year and have not used them a lot, but thank goodness I have them now.

He is such a 2 year old "teenager" Church is at 9am so being a baby that sleeps until 9am most days, Waking up for church is hard for him. We go in and open the shades, He screams "Lights OFF" Shuts the shades and covers himself with a blanket. No kidding. Jeremy and I just laugh.

Well, most of the time we laugh.
Thank goodness he is so cute.

A warm November Day

2010-11-07T14:16:00.003-07:00

I ran another 1/2 marathon. Wohoo. This one I felt much better then the last one in Buena Vista. I did have to stop for 10 minutes and wait in line to use the rest room at Mile 5 so with that in calculation, I met my goal of a 2:16 but my real time was 2:26 minutes.
After I ran the race, Jeremy, Xander and I went to Loveland Lake where we went fishing.

I rested and Jeremy and Xander Fished. Jeremy caught one fish. A Perch. Today he fried it for lunch, with a little bread crumbs. YUMMY. I told Jeremy that instead of Turkey for Thanksgiving we are going to go fishing in the morning and have fish for Thanksgiving
and of course Pumpkin Pie. Speaking of Pumpkins...

These are the pumpkins we grew in our garden this year. I carved two and Jeremy carved two and Xander played in the pumpkin guts. Halloween being on Sunday this year, we just carved pumpkins and handed out candy to all the "heathen" children. (Just kidding)
I am glad they came. It is my favorite thing to hand out candy to cute kids in costumes.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2010-10-31T04:59:00.002-06:00

Friday night, My neighbor Joy Wheeler and I took the kids to Firestone for their "Safe" Halloween Fun night. Xander screamed for 30 minutes at home when I first put his costume on but as soon as he saw, "BenBeccaJacob." Ben, Becca, and Jacob and that they were in costumes as well, we had no problem with Xander and his "Little Franky" Costume.

Saturday night was the Ward Halloween party. Jeremy made a yummy batch of Chili, not sure if we won the contest but I think it was the best, and we decided to match Xander and go as "Suburban Frankenstiens" People were asking if it was my "real" hair and how long it took me to do my hair. If they only knew with the texture of my hair, "like wires" that it was not hard to make stand up. But I did use a lot of Suave extra hold.

Xander and Dad making mean monster faces!

The "do"

Happy Halloween!

Witches night out YEAR 3

2010-10-27T22:11:00.002-06:00

Brigit Robinson who first started this tradition moved to Idaho.

So GLAD! Michelle Boswell decided to keep it alive. I just love the look on people's faces when 30 witches show up to Chillies to eat!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Rock n' Roll

2010-10-27T21:45:00.004-06:00

All because of Face Book I decided to Run this race with some fellow Broomfield High School Students. When they first posted about wanting some Broomfield Runners I was so tempted, but the race was on Sunday and I did not want to pay to run a race on Sunday. About two weeks before the race, one of their runners got injured and they posted again, that you did not have to pay, they just really needed someone to take the 9 mile leg spot. Well, I just finished running the 1/2 marathon so I was in shape to do it and I totally justified that since I did not pay for the race it was ok to run a Sunday race. One graduated with me and two were on the Cross Country team with me, and the rest were faces that I knew but are friends now.

I had a 9 mile leg to run and I was running with Jayme Gray. She was a super fast runner in High School so I was a little nervous to run with her. She said she was out of shape and still ran 9 miles 5 minutes faster then me. "Ouch". I was the in-shape one! HA! Once fast always fast.
No matter how not in shape you are.

So this was the "Rock 'n' Roll Marathon so we were running with all the Marathon people. We were the last leg, so I got to finish the race which was totally cool!

I just wish this series "Rock 'n Roll was not on Sunday because it was a BLAST! Lots of music and cheering!

Oh well, What do you do! Just have to start my own Rock 'n Roll race on Saturday. :)

It was fun to see my friend Erin "Bigger" She graduated High school with me. We all went to Dinner the night before at the Spaghetti Factory and I was the only one who brought spouse and kid and Erin was so sweet with Xander. She got him water and crackers! What a great person she is. It was fun to talk to her!

She also totally scored the Broomfield T-shirts for FREE from Charlene Orvis who is the "Coolest" High school Secretary and is still there. I think she has worked there for like 20 years now. If not more.

These were the X-Country Peeps! So glad I was able to reconnect with these sweet ladies. I hope I will have another opportunity to run with them again.
I told them, to find a Saturday race next time and Jayme Gray whose husband is a Pastor agreed!

Cupcake Truck

2010-10-17T15:27:00.003-06:00

My Friend Denon from Highschool owns a Bakery and they also have a cupcake truck that travels around Denver and sales treats!

They are so good. Jeremy and I were in Denver this weekend to pick up stuff for the "Rock 'n' Roll Relay I did with some friends from High School.

And we saw the truck. We were so excited. We bought four and sat on some cement stairs and ate cupcakes and watched random people learn the dance steps to "Thriller"

Sometimes it is nice to be in the city.
Lots going on.

P.S. Xander really wanted out of the stroller when we were taking this picture.

Big Chair

2010-10-17T15:24:00.002-06:00

I love cousins.

Xander is so lucky to have so many great ones

The kids

2010-10-17T15:14:00.002-06:00

Xander loves animals. It is so cute to see how well he responds to them. As soon as we got to the animals he picked up the straw on the ground and tried to feed them the straw but the were more interested in the treats you buy. So I bought a few cups for the kids.

After feeding them. Xander noticed that the little ones were getting pushed out by the bigger animals. So he crouched down to give the little ones a treat. It was very sweet. While he was feeding the little guy. The big one nipped him on the ear.

He screamed. and said "Ear" and then right back to feeding the little ones.

I am glad we caught this moment.

Picture with Jeremy and Honey and Papa

2010-10-17T15:06:00.002-06:00

The 2nd picture I made it in with the Roloff family. Grandpa Roloff wanted to hold Xander.
And Jeremy the 17 year old totally put his arm around me.
Ha. If only I was a teenager again.

N0t.

I was here for this picture same spot as the other one.

I just did not make it.

Glad there was a 2nd picture!

Matt Roloff is kind

2010-10-17T15:01:00.003-06:00

After I got my picture with Matt. I looked behind me and saw this little girl coming up to him. I told Natalee, take a picture. I want to remember this. Seeing how kind and gentle he was to her gave me hope for the goodness of the World. He had like a 15 minute conversation with her and her family. It was very cool and made Natalee and I cry.

I was reminded of President Hinkley's words. To be a little kinder.
We all can be a little kinder and a little more soft and thoughtful.

I am so glad I was able to witness this special moment.

I met Matt Roloff

2010-10-17T14:52:00.003-06:00

Natalee took me to the Roloff Farm. Part of the reason I wanted to come to Oregon. I really did not think I would meet an actual Roloff but I did. I met all of them except the Mom, Zach, and daughter Molly. I even met Matt's parents Papa and Honey. They were so nice. It was so friendly and warm there. The best part of course was being with my sister and her sweet kids.

But it is good to know that not all famous people have to act famous. These people were do gooders and wanted to meet the people.

I am so glad that I was able to go.
I will be back!

Oregon

2010-10-07T23:19:00.002-06:00

It has been nice to be here in Oregon. We really have not done a lot. We have lived life. Xander had fun playing with the Cousins.

SO MUCH FUN.

He calls Hudson, "Doc Hudson"
Cried when he had to drop Sadie off at Preschool when Natalee told him to wave goodbye.
Got beat up by Everett. And also played trains with Everett and Shared drinks and cookies with Everett and wants to go potty like Everett.
And tells Abram "NO BABY" and pats him on the head until he cries.

My boy needs some siblings. But if he does not get anymore on his "team" We will always have the Maxfields to share the love.

We still have two more days for FUN!

It has just been so nice to be around people for a week and not all alone at my house.

Happiness

2010-09-30T15:21:00.002-06:00

So my last post...was kind of unhappy.

Sorry...
Only like 5 people even look at this blog. So I don't mind venting...sometimes life sucks for everyone right??

I know for the most part I have got a pretty hot diggity dog great one. So to lift my spirits, I am going to write all the things I am thankful for.

1. The ability to have babies. I only have one right now, but I am so thankful it is easy for me to have them. Hopefully I will be able to have a couple more, but if not...There are A LOT of selfish things I would not mind doing. Running a marathon in London or Rome would be one of them. So if no more come. oh well. Xander will just be the most bestest dressed kid on the block and be able to have a season pass to whatever he wants.

2. A husband whom ADORES me. He does. He wants me to be happy more then anything and will do anything to make sure I am. So spoiled. Love that he will paint my toenails, cook me delicious meals, listen to me and all around make me feel wonderful!

3. Living in Colorado. Enough said. I love it here.

4. My family. Thankful to have good parents that I have a good relationship with and I like them. Actually, I LOVE THEM.

5. Brothers and Sisters that are so talented and help me work hard at being a better person. I am so lucky to be born on their team and associate with them for eternity. Their offspring are doing pretty cool stuff too and I am glad that Xander will be able to look up to his cousins and follow their examples.

6. Reading books. Love to, when I have time. Have lots to read.

7. Eating. Praying. Loving. Running. Swimming. Biking. Jumping.

8. Dancing. I can't wait until Jeremy is done with school, He Big Pinkie sweared promised that we would take a dance class together when he is done and by golly even if it is not until we are 65. I am holding him to it.

9. "Special Hugs" I had to wait until 30 years old to enjoy them, but I do love my "Special Hugs"

10. Being clean. So glad I can take a shower and wash my hair every day, even though they say not to wash your hair everyday. I am glad I can. I like showers and taking really long ones.

I am thankful for a lot lot more but I am tired. So I will end now.

I ran a half Marathon.....again ;)

2010-09-20T17:20:00.002-06:00

Dear sir in tie-die shirt

Thank you for giving a complete stranger a sip of your water at Buena Vista Half marathon.

Signed- Girl who felt like she was in a desert and had no other choice.

Dear: Kind Running ladies behind me.

Sorry you had to see me puke at around Mile 10. Thank you for the napkins to wipe my face. Maybe I should not have taken water from a stranger.

Signed: Girl who finished anyway.

Becky Dallin Smith Dear Nic: You are an inspiration to so many. Great job on your 1/2 marathon. You go girl! Beck

Dear: Michelle B.

Thanks for putting your arm around me! I could not have finished with out you!
Glad you were not one of the kind running ladies right behind me and had to see the offensive behavior in nature. Because now we can still be friends.

...Love: A very thankful friend

Michelle Salmon Boswell You helped me, just as much as I may have helped you! I believe that everything happens for a reason and I was more than happy to finish out the race with you!! I hope you are feeling better :) I love all your little letters on FB! Oh and in case you forgot, I am a nurse and it would take a lot more than vomit to make me not want to be friends with you! You have been an inspiration throughout this whole process and have always been williing to train with those of us who are slower less motivated runners!!! Love ya lots!

I love my running friends! And will gladly take more! :) If you think you can you can! If you think you can't, think again! :)

Tirsa Hamilton Allen so true! I was NOT a runner half a year ago and now I am!

Tiffany Downs Brown How did your half marathon go? I saw the pictures. It looks like a hard but beautiful course!

Nichole Johnson Very hard. Very beautiful. proud of myself for finishing despite the fact that I had to bum water off of a complete stranger because they only had 3 aid stations and it was 85 degrees outside, And I stopped and threw up at mile 10 and had... to walk the last 3 miles. I am very impressed with your training in the heat. The race started at 9am and I had been training at 6am, and I did not think the race people thought it would be so warm in the mountains. Wish the race would have started earlier and maybe I would have felt better. Not the best race for me but still VERY FUN!

Jennifer Eastman Fryer I did it! And now I want to pass out.

Tirsa Hamilton Allen Just had the best weekend in Buena Vista with the pink ladies. I ran my first half marathon today and accomplished the only goal that I had for it...to not walk at all. It was so fun! (Yes, you read that right...I said fun and run in the same sentence! Who would've thought?) Too tired to post pics. tonight though!