Derek and M'Kenzie

8 Months

2012-01-28T19:15:00.000-08:00

Bug you are now 8 months old! Before I know it I am going to have to start planning your 1 year Birthday! (Who are we kidding I've already started and it is going to be fabulous)!

You have changed sooo much and I feel like my baby days are numbered until you will be a crazy wild toddler. I don't want to forget the highlights as we go so here you are at 8 months.

You are creeping along on your belly and it is officially your first method of getting around on your own! I think you would like to skip this step and go straight to walking but we all know what the books say about those babies... so you my friend are going to crawl first.

You look like you are a soldier wounded in battle on his last leg of life when you crawl but hey we still think your baby coordination far out weighs all the others :)

You love to stand and hold onto furniture- in most scenarios you are holding on for dear life

It's safe to say you have entered the land of bumps and falls and unfortunately that head of yours is hard to gage and it ends up taking quite a bonking throughout the day

Now that you scoot around we have to be careful what we leave on the ground by you. For example dad left a pile of shoes out and in no time flat you had scooted over to them and were vigorously sucking the life out of the BOTTOM of one. I may have shrieked out loud

You now have baby conversation going and have taken to saying 'dadda' and on the rarest of occasions 'mamma'

I will be going on a girls trip to NYC next month and it will be my first time spending days away from you! I am one of those mothers that will need to read the section in those baby books on 'How to Handle My Worries About Leaving My Baby for the First time'

You started sleeping through the night at 5 months and it has made a WORLD of difference!

You like to be read to before bed. It is one of the only times you will sit still on my lap, no wiggles, just a cuddly boy and it's what I live for. Especially on some of the longer days.

Dad and I spend most of our time talking about how handsome you are. Whether you are awake, asleep, or right next to us- you pretty much consume us!

Blades of Glory

2012-01-24T17:33:00.000-08:00

One of Derek's Christmas presents was 12 prepaid and planned out dates for a year. I got the idea from Pinterest. So, basically at the beginning of each month he gets to open a manilla folder and see what the date is. Then we pick a day that works best that month and away we go.

Our first date was a gift card to Lamb's Cafe down town, then ice skating around the corner at the Galivan. The $$$ was for the babysitter. Now not all the dates are with cheap-o coupons :) some are expensive so I figure it counter balances the whole thing . . . plus the point is to spend time together more than to spend money right!?

New Years came on the bubble

2012-01-05T18:26:00.000-08:00

The 'bugs' entered the New Year with his new found love for BUBBLES BUBBLES BUBBLES.

He is weighing in at 13.5 pounds and 24 inches tall . . . meaning that he is no where on the charts . . . oh except that noggin which is still somewhere close to the 50% mark

Derek and I agreed that the 'bugs' was the best part of this past year and that in 2012 our family will now take root. We decided we will spend and lend ourselves to this new family this coming year, and before we could get into any details on what exactly that means - as in resolutions for this new year - we fell asleep.

I am digging 2012 already

'bugs' for the longest time you looked like your mama but I got to be honest you are turning into a spittin' image of your old man these days. Here is to a new year and a new look that is all your dads

All is Merry and Bright

2011-12-28T10:25:00.000-08:00

In case you were wondering we were all really good this year . . . Boo Boo is always a little questionsable though with his sneaky sneaky snacking. . .

Merry Christmas everyone

Santa Baby

2011-12-19T17:51:00.000-08:00

We went to the Santa Shack around the corner from us so the 'bugs' could meet Jolly ole' St. Nick for the first time. He was pretty intrigued by the red suite and the majority of his pictures were of the back of his head. He tried with all his might to turn around and look at Santa. We pulled out all the stops to get that kid to look at the camera . . . goofy boy

Porter's morning commute

2011-12-15T20:34:00.000-08:00

to our Christmas tree.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T14:15:00.000-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving up at the Diamond Fork cabin with my family. It was great food, weather, and company what more is there to say :)

It wouldn't be right if I didn't say the things that I am grateful for this Thanksgiving so in no particular order here are my top things

My marriage
My 'handsome boy'
My Health
Cafe Rio
Sunday Dinner
Family
. . . and my soon to be new iPod player from Anthropology-hint hint Derek!

Madi's Bridal Shower

2011-11-19T18:39:00.000-08:00

My little sister Madi is getting married next month so my older sister and I decided to throw her a bridal shower in good sisterly fashion. I don't want to toot my own horn but . . . well I guess that's what this post is pretty much about, me throwing a super cute shower . . . If only I had done a better job taking pictures of it. There were drinks, and guests, and presents, I swear

Older sis made this banner

The invitation . . . if you were so lucky . . .

Spa party favor table

The cute Bride herself opening her Ooo la-la's

Grub

Each guest filled out a little advice for the bride to be

This is my ebay section! I LOVE ebay and I was able to score this 1950's Bride Bingo game for $3

And thanks to ebay all her guests were able to stylishly enjoy their meal on their vintage snacks trays! I love these - Sigh

While I am at it I should thank the D.I for all their picture frames that I spent days collecting. I spray painted them white and with chalkboard paint for place-cards . . . food cards? My mind is drawing a blank on the word

At the end of the event the bugs was being a little fussy so Cito and my mom said they would take him. I can hear him from the other room fussing away then -SILENCE- I yell, "what are you guys doing in there" and my mom's timid voice replies, "Nothing . . ." I go running in and bugs is as content as can be CHOMPING up a sugar cookie! Leave to it to Grannie Annie and Cito to start him on sweets right away, I am pretty sure that's what she did to all of us kids and that's why we were all sooooo spastic as kids (see family videos for further A.D.D proof).

Halloween

2011-11-17T14:39:00.000-08:00

Derek dusted off the old fog machines (4 of them) and so our Hallows Eve began on a foggy night......

Ok really it was a crystal clear night and because 4 smoke machines (more is more) create so much -well smoke -our neighbor came running over thinking something was on fire :)

We had a great Halloween trick or treating with the "Bugs" and also having a small get to together with some close friends. I think Pinterest should sponsor me, my whole party came from them.

Shrunken Apple head cider

Oh ya and the "Bugs" turned 5 months a few days before Halloween... Next week he will be 6 months so I'll post on that for sure. Well . . . kinda for sure . . . who knows if I actually will these days so I am going to say that I intend to and it will probably be a couple weeks late . . .

Frankly...

2011-11-07T15:04:00.000-08:00

. . . I like you

Happy be-lated Halloween

City Boy

2011-10-24T20:59:00.000-07:00

'Bugs' you spent last week in NYC enjoying the view and shopping up a storm with mamma. We learned about stranger danger because every person in EVERY store, metro, or restaurant would try and touch you-eek! You're so cute that I can hardly blame them-well almost. Needless to say I think you adjusted to city life very well and enjoyed getting gussied up every day to go out in public. Today you seemed really bored now that we are back to our quiet Utah lives where you don't even make it out of your p.j's in a day

4 Months

2011-10-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

You are almost 5 months and I am just getting around to posting your 4 month update! We have several nick names going for you "Bugs" Bug-a Boo", "PB&J", and "Portskee" so you probably won't realize what your real name is for a while down the road.

You are still only 11.5 lBS. That puts you in the 10% for weight and height, but that head of yours is in the 50% percentile. Around our house we call it a 5-head not a 4-head, but I am sure you got lots of smarts in there.

You are now wiggling and rolling around. You can no longer be left unattended on high surfaces and have become an expert at rolling around to watch me move around the house. You are getting the idea of putting the binki in your mouth yourself- I would say 5 out of 10 times I hand it to you you successfully put it in the Kisser :) You are definitely a vocal kid and have taken to growling. So, now you sit on your matt and growl up at the ceiling kind of like a baby possessed.

The biggest new change is the DROOL! It is everywhere now and so frequent that I don't even bother to wipe baby spit off me anymore. I pretty much rub it in like some expensive moisturizer. Me and your dad have become those tainted parents that we swore we would never become! We both wipe big blobs of slobber off your face with our hands and simply wipe the spit back on ourselves. Kinda makes me cringe even thinking about it but we love your slobbery 5-head face to itty bitty baby bits-slobbery kisses and all.

Round Up

2011-10-12T19:20:00.000-07:00

Last week we were at the Bar B where we experienced our first round up and also landing on the runway for the first time!
I think all of Derek's cowboy dreams came true that week :)

Pinteresting Post

2011-09-30T18:24:00.000-07:00

Ok I have officially become addicted to Pinterest!

Instead of spending hours and hours surfing the Internet for crafts I go to this handy dandy website and find crafts galore!!!

Now my hours of Internet time have turned into hours of craft time!

Thank you Pinterest for making my life craft-tastic!

Iron on Onsies for Porter's 4 month photo shoot

New craft holder for some magnificent doilies, ribbons, and clips

spooctacular Halloween plates

A chunky knit blanket for the holiday season

and there is more to come -oh much much more!

4 Generations

2011-09-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

We drove down to Fillmore 'Bugs' so you could meet your great grandpa Joe whose father was Porter- which is where you got your name from.

We were driving back mid afternoon and I remember reflecting on how life cycles us back to the beginning. Seeing you as a new born so in-experienced, next to grandpa Joe who has all the wisdom that a grandfather should, I realized how similar you two were in your essential qualities. For the next twenty minutes or so I was rambling on in my mind on what I am sure were all these insightful thoughts but the sound of Derek's cell phone brought me back to consciousness. I looked around and I saw Derek driving and you asleep in the back seat and just felt that the family unit is the most perfect organization ever created. From the very oldest to the very youngest member.

Growing Up

2011-09-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

Someone is getting bigger! Pictures taken 6.1.2011 and 9.12.2011

Memorial weekend

2011-09-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

Memorial weekend was spent at the fabulous BarB where we caught snakes, rode horses, and checked out the progress on the runway that is going in! Family is simply the best and we are so grateful to live close enough to enjoy it all. Thanks Tu Tu for the fun!

A case of the giggles

2011-08-30T19:01:00.000-07:00

PB&J you started to giggle this past week and it melts my heart to hear! The first time it happened it was honestly like Christmas morning- Now this little video probably won't melt any one else's heart and after watching it one may wonder why I even posted it at all, but the new mother in me loves being able to experience all of your firsts with you! Suddenly the smallest things are the most miraculous and I am convinced that everything you do You Do better than other babies, or sooner, or smoother, or with more intent, or or or I am just crazy about you so I hype up everything you do! But I Love that you think I am funny and now laugh at our games.

Folks you'll have to ignore my annoying baby voice and noises in the video what can I say this kid makes me whacko

Washington

2011-08-25T15:14:00.001-07:00

Summer fun in Washington this past week!

Look WHOOO is driving! Long story short there was an un-conscious owl that was picked up and then it actually woke up!

He flew off into the night! Hoot Hoot!

Meet George Jetson

2011-08-16T14:51:00.000-07:00

I often plop the Bugs in his mamma-roo for some good cartoon time. The other day I saw the Jetson's on the guide and, fondly remembering that as my childhood cartoon, I put it on. Now I am in the other room and happen to tune in and I couldn't believe what I was hearing! I had to laugh then wonder how impressionable a 3 month old baby is?

Since it gave me such a chuckle I figure I should pass it on. Sorry about the quality it was done on an iPhone. Turn up the volume nice and loud so you can hear his words of wisdom :-)

Bug-a-boo at 11 weeks

2011-08-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

Bug-a-boo is 11 weeks so I thought I would give a little re-cap of his past few weeks!

He was blessed this last Sunday and Derek did a fabulous job as did the bugs. There was no crying even though he was WIDE awake during the whole thing and he sure looks charming in his white tux.

These past weeks have been great! You now interact with us so much and I feel like my baby slug is slowly disappearing. You now smile at us all the time and try -sometimes in frustration- to talk to us when we talk to you. At six weeks you realized that you didn't have to stand for tummy time any more and started to roll from belly to back. Sometimes though instead of flipping off your belly you just give in and take a snooze. Bath time you still scream and turn into a lobster baby. You sleep pretty good at night and last night you slept the whole night! You were out from 9-7. Hallelujah chorus rang out as I woke up this morning. You are now in the 5th percentile for weight/height (weighed in at 9 lbs 9 oz) but your noggin is in the 40th! You get that giant head from your dad. You favor sleeping on your left side and as a result you are starting to get a flat head. The pediatrician took one look at your head and read you like a book! So now we are rotating you like a rotisserie chicken. Also, you are on your way to being a fashion icon, you got style kid and lots of it

Right Side and the much loved left side

Pirates Cove

2011-07-24T16:14:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a fun filled family week to Pirates Cove where we celebrated Sophia's 14th birthday, our 3rd year anniversary, and Pb&J went swimming in a pool for the first time.

More than anything we had a blast being able to spend quality time with everyone especially our niece and nephews. You can only explain Pirates Cove in so many words so Derek using his GoPro cam (best birthday present I think I've ever got him) followed the kids around as they ran amuck and made this video out of the footage.

First time to the beach

2011-07-17T10:04:00.000-07:00

Derek went out of town for a couple weeks for work so me and the little man decided to have a vaca of our own! We went up to Washington so that PB&J could see the ocean for the first time... not sure if he ever really saw it because he seems to be sleeping in almost all the beach shots!

An added bonus while being there is that cousin River was there to hang out with!

Plus with all of his beach antics we were entertained for hours.

Now this was also Deja's first time on the beach and as you can see the sand gave her added traction to chase down River

Below all the boys are gathering wood to make our beach bonfire

Here is the finished product ready to be lit!

This is the end product ...

Here are some nature highlights of Washington! Most of these were taken from a trotting horse so they may not be perfectly cropped

Crazy Grandpa and River riding on the beach

An eagle that I tried to get while pointing and shooting on a galloping horse so I was pleasantly surprised when I saw that I got it on the screen!

Uh...yeah my dog trying to catch the eagle

A favorite activity is bear watching in Washington. This trip we saw 2-Yippee!

and as you can see all the adventures exhausted a little man

Bar B Ranch 2011

2011-07-08T11:40:00.000-07:00

This year at the Bar B it was an axe swinging, tree huggin, log rolling good time! The 4th of July is seriously our favorite holiday thanks to Sandie and her amazing creativity, generosity, and good looks :) She seriously makes magic and unbelievable memories for all of us to enjoy and we can' t thank you enough! We love you muchos!!!

This year it was Lumber jack themed and while I didn't capture all the events (there is too many) I will post what I got.

I will kick it off with Fair day!

Talent night brought some seriously funny things. It was Broadway themed and I about died laughing at some of the routines.

happy boy at the Ranch

Porter's first 4th of July

For the lumberjack games they had the coolest event, a tree climbing contest! It was harder than it looked! Some people scampered up that thing so fast I was lulled into a false sense of ease. I am going to do some serious tree climbing to train up for next year, and it will probably help that I won't have just had a baby next go around.

Of course Derek's highlight event is the demolition derby which he happily won and even better for me he was not injured. Poor Jed on the other hand took a good hit!

The car smashed in on the right is Jed's car! It looks like it was wrapped around a pole! Youch!

I'll end with some videos on the new GoPro camera. It is Derek making the tree climb look ridiculously easy and cousin Matt making the Boom Run look just as easy

1 Month

2011-06-24T19:51:00.000-07:00

Wow time is flying! You are already 1 month old and onto bigger and better things, OK it's still mainly sleeping and eating but soon you'll be onto new things. . . or so the baby books say.

We have many nick names for you but the two that are the most widely used are PB&J and I have taken to calling you bug-a-boo a lot these past few weeks.

You like to make noise constantly (even when you are sleeping) and the most common noise you make is a series of little squeaks! We jokingly say we have a mouse in the house now,especially at night when we are trying to sleep and we can here you in the other room squeaking away into the night.

You are now a studio baby and like to hang in your bouncy chair-squeaking-while I paint

Also this last month I have caught you sucking your two middle fingers! I was a big time thumb sucker and know how habit forming it can be :)

Deja seems to not mind you all that much. She loves to give kisses and when we let her give you baby kisses you open your mouth real wide . . . It is kinda disturbing

Your two talents are squeaking and sucking on anything near your mouth.

Dad thinks it's hilarious to trick you when you are hungry by putting his nose near your mouth which you furiously try eating

So there it is a little re-cap of your one month life accomplishments

Two weeks

2011-06-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

Here you are sweet wittle man at the 2 week mark. Life with you as a newborn has been exciting, exhausting, lovable, loud, overwhelming, and unforgettable. I am loving us and our daily routine we are in.

I frequently sing made up songs to you, the most frequent being your milk face song which is a knock off of a hit song, but it goes a little something like-"Your milk face brings all the girls to the yard and they're like it's better than yours ect... or I have a fussy face song that is sung to the random tune of the South Pacific "Happy Talk" and it goes a little something like this- "fussy fussy fussy face. Talk about things you like to fuss about. You like to fuss a lot cause if you don't fuss a lot how we going to make your dreams come true" There are several verses and I am pretty sure you think I am the cookiest person around.

Any ways you are growing up fast and have already gained a pound and grown an inch but you are still not quite big enough to fit into more than 5 outfits :)

And thank you Toni for helping us capture your little baby face!

had to post one of our first baby Deja

P.B and J (Porter Baby Jr)

2011-06-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

I am out of apps that compare you to food on a weekly basis so we started calling you PB & J for Porter baby Jr because after 9 months I still feel the need to compare you to food I guess. I plan on telling your birth story, of our 18 hour labor and delivery that lead to your 5.6 tininess with all 10 fingers and toes! Yay! but we spent the last 9 months documenting your growth and our desire to nest in a video that is now finally complete, just like you

Better late than never?

2011-05-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

Baby T you are late! I've spent to much time organizing your room, the house, and whatever else I can find - it's time to get this show on the road! However, every morning that I wake up and get out of bed I am grateful to have another day to get things done, spend time with Derek, and reflect on life and it's coming changes. Still I am anxious to meet you and to stop the ever growing expansion of my belly.

I guess you'll come on time . . . whenever that is

Come One Come All

2011-05-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

Since it has been raining for the past 3 days and I have been stuck in doors trying to avoid cleaning anything in the house I came up with a little crafting project to fill my time. You know me and how I love to work in a theme! So, in keeping with the baby nursery motif I decided (I know this seems over the top) to make little gift bags for any visitors we get in the hospital.

These are the darling circus bags that I am filling with all sorts of goodies below

Since we have decided to wait on naming the baby until we see him I had to stick with Baby Tillotson on the ticket stubs... I think we have narrowed the names down to two which feels like a huge accomplishment!

I hope these little bags will entice you all to come visit us in the hospital!

Mini Watermelon 38 weeks

2011-05-10T16:09:00.000-07:00

"Baby T" this week you are a watermelon and I LOVE watermelon so, I was ecstatic that this week my app compared you to a 'relevant melon' or food item for that matter. . . Any ways this past week was mother's day and it was the first time in my life where I celebrated being a mom, being able to be your mom! Tu tu sent me this quote and of course it made me all weepy;

The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. - Rajneesh

We have two weeks left together (give or take) and as ready as I am for the next phase of our relationship and to have my body back I have a feeling as soon as you are out I am going to miss this part of our bond. I just finished packing our hospital bags this week and I fretted over what outfits to bring you, what you should wear for the first time, and since I couldn't settle on any one thing I packed a mini bag of clothes for you even though I'll probably never put you in them and just want to hold you skin to skin. But your room is ready for you so you are welcome to come any day :)

I made your hot air balloon mobile in a nesting/crafting fit one evening

Closet doors

Accessories in your room!

Pillows made by Grannie Annie

Your clothes are folded and in place. We are just waiting to fill you up in them and to fill our lives up with you!

Crenshaw Melon week 35

2011-04-20T16:14:00.000-07:00

This week is the week that Derek proposed to me on 3 years ago. The bedazzled egg above nestled in my anniversary flowers- aaawwweee:) is where the ring was hidden when he got down on one knee proclaiming that one Easter egg fell out of my basket that morning.

This week I am 35 weeks along and I am trying to get the baby nursery in order. It is coming- not quite finished but I figure I will post a few photos as teasers.

As I was trying to get shots of the egg/flower arrangement Deja kept putting her puppy face in every shot, like a true girl just to smell the flowers

Honeydew Melon week 34

2011-04-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

This week Baby " T " you are the size of a honeydew melon and are suppose to be around 5 1/2 lbs! However, after my doctor appointment today we are pretty sure you are not that big, in fact the Doc said he is going to hope you're a 6 lb baby come delivery time.

These lasts weeks of pregnancy have my emotions all over the map again. Sometimes I want to see you right now to hold, squish, and kiss. Then I feel like I will never have enough time to prepare for you and you will be here without a finished baby room, name, or nicely folded onesies all in a row in the closet.

Some days I am delighted at my growing belly and then tearful at my lost waistline the next day! I am thrilled with the idea of motherhood but then worried about being tied down to your tiny helplessness the next minute. Needless to say the closer it gets to you being here (6 weeks) the more I feel like I am riding an emotional roller coaster!

Aside from all my worries I do know that I love you and can't wait to marvel at your face and count your fingers and toes. For now all I have is the sound of your cute little heart beating 150 bpm.

And then there where 5

2011-04-07T16:07:00.000-07:00

A new member of the Sheranian Family came today at 3:15 p.m

weighing 8 lbs 1 ounce

with lots of chins

and luscious kissable lips!

Pineapple

2011-03-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

This week the baby is said to be the size of a pineapple. . . so imagine if you will these two images as one

Actually it is really fitting that you are a pineapple this week baby "T" because you where in Kauai for your first time and guess what- eating lots of pineapple while getting a nice tan to sport around! We where there for Jeff and Diana's wedding. Which was so beautifully done I did the "ugly cry" through the whole ceremony. I blame it on the hormones you are producing for me :) We are finishing 32 weeks and our co-habituating lifestyle is starting to get cramped. Often you are pushing on my lungs leaving me short of breath and I am now up to sleeping with 3 pillows around me plus your dad for support. We are still able to be active together. We went snorkeling a lot, I think you liked it because every time I was out in the water you squirmed the whole time and I figured you were experiencing a zero gravity zone to the max! However, I can no longer zip up my wet suite. We also did a lot of paddle boarding, canoeing, and come to find out you love Hawaiian shaved ice as much as I do! I think we walked or biked to the stand every other day for a passion fruit/Guava treat! We also did our fair share of toad catching and hula hooping- your dad and aunt Alisha are bound to teach you their chicken struts. We also had a bit of our first photo shoot together thanks to your dad :)

You should know Baby 'T' that when you get here you are going to have many beach memories with Tutu which is Hawaiian for Grandma. I just know you are going to love her to pieces and realize what a blessing she is to us. The only thing I ask is that you don't poke any holes in her rice paper dividers in the dinning room!

A baby shower that turned out to be a Hoot!

2011-03-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

I just had to post a few photos from the darling baby shower that my mother in law/Sister in laws threw for me this week! You can gather from the invitation pictured above how adorably themed and decorated it was!

These where cute little owl cookies and nests filled with candy eggs- the nests where edible too!

I didn't take one picture all night so Thank You Tutu for taking pictures with my camera! Unfortunately since you did all the picture taking I don't have one shot of how dazzling you looked!

Some of my cute guests that showed up!

It really meant a lot to have such a great turnout and I wish I could tell everyone how much I appreciate their support and help with the shower . . . Oh wait I can . . . I better get on those Thank you's :)

Derek being the great hubby that he is showed up to help load gifts . . . OK and maybe to get some grub too.

I Woke up this morning. . .

2011-03-10T08:10:00.000-08:00

to the usual squirming and kicking of the baby so I rolled over and grabbed my phone to see if I could capture the early morning stretching... Pay attention right at the beginning because he moves fast- Oh and the lines on my stomach are from the sheets I just felt like I needed to clarify :)

Good Morning Baby!

Butternut Squash

2011-03-02T11:29:00.000-08:00

I love how all of these baby apps compare the "little guy" to food as he grows. Last week it was a Chinese cabbage and this week you guessed it butternut squash.
I am officially in my third trimester and I've been thinking back over the past 7 months wondering if pregnancy is what I thought it would be, if all those stereo types were true. Have I had crazy cravings, wild mood swings, sickness, nesting, swelling, felt gross and unattractive?

Yes, some have happened but I gather that every pregnancy is absolutely unique and I don't know how to classify the "norms" because the whole process is off the charts miraculous and I think it's a sacred thing for each couple that goes through it. But yes, I would say I have cravings but I would say this is a mixed subject. In the beginning I wouldn't say they were cravings - more it's what food you can stand to think of that doesn't stir up the sense of nausea. This is when you'll eat that same item until something else comes along that doesn't create the feelings mentioned above. Later in pregnancy I would say that I did have cravings. I would go on two week kicks eating each item a couple times daily namely:
Tomato soup
canned corn
salt and vinegar chips
grilled cheese
cinnamon life cereal
cheese and mustard sandwiches -to name a few

Wild mood swings I guess you would have to ask poor Derek or any of my in-laws who witnessed an emotional breakdown at a McDonald's over hamburgers... and I guess I answered the sickness question when talking about food cravings but more than being sick I wasn't prepared for how EXHAUSTING baby bakin' is. I slept for weeks on our couch without showering which I think even repelled the dog.

Nesting is a big one and also a fun one. I am going crazy over doing a baby room right now but surprisingly Derek also has been doing is fair share of nesting. This was not something I expected guys to do but he has been crazed about fixing and organizing all sorts of little things. He has been a man possessed organizing storage rooms, holiday decor, closets, kitchen cupboards, really the list goes on and I have to say it has been EXTREMELY NICE!

Physically I must say since being pregnant I've never felt so attractive. Maybe when I start to swell in the next few months or I get those dreaded stretch marks- I am having much anxiety about that- shudder. But I don't feel fat and gross like I thought I would as the scale numbers climb up and my clothes selection goes down.

Is it what I thought it would be after hearing all the stories from aunts, moms, and friends? I would have to say no it is better than I expected.
I am not saying it's not hard when your sciatic nerve decides to ache for hours but I think all you focus on when you hear people talk pregnancy is the hardships. But what you don't take in with all those stories is how much wonder you will be in at your body. That feeling a baby squirm, wiggle, and twist is absolutely the most supernatural event you will experience and each movement makes me simply feel fortunate- I don't know how else to say it. They are the quiet moments a mom experiences, silent bonding, over the hours you can spend pushing and poking your stomach and getting poked back. How in the middle of conversations and everyday life you receive these little Morse Code kicks that no one else is aware of. These things make the aches and pains of it all seem insignificant with everything else that's miraculously happening.
I didn't realize I had so much to say and I am not sure that it all came out making any sense but since this post is getting long to end I want to leave you this quote I came across.

The Beauty of my body is not measured by the clothes it can fit into, but by the stories that it tells. I have a belly and hips that say, "We grew a child in here" and breasts that say, "we nourished life." My hands, with bitten nails and writer's callus say, "We created amazing things."

-Sarah from I am Beautiful: A celebration of women in their own words

Road Trip

2011-01-19T11:10:00.000-08:00

According to my BabyBump App I am officially in what is known as the honeymoon period of my pregnancy. Which I guess means that I am feeling really good and I am not super huge yet so it is recommended that couples take a trip during this period kind of as a last hoorah!

So, we road tripped it to L.A for the Nu SKin kick off this last week then spent a few more days at the Cove. I am not the best road warrior but for whatever reason I really enjoyed being in the car. It was nice just being with Derek, my pile of movies, and cooler full of snacks and crafts.

We stayed at the Marriott and got upgraded to a suite which over looked the Nokia theatre and L.A Convention Center woot-woot !

The weather was wonderfully sunny and what's even better I was able to spend a day with my sister shopping and eating- my two favs.

Now I mentioned that I brought crafts to do in the car well I really only did one craft and that was knit a bunch of baby booties! I must be nesting...

Next we got a little more fun in the sun at Pirates Cove where I lazily lounged in the pool like a mini beached whale while Derek was very frustrated at the fact that he brought his new kite (a Christmas present) to fly thinking there is always some wind this time of year but much to my pleasure and his displeasure it was as calm as can be. He did get some good practice in on setting the giant thing up though

Derek liked that it looks like he is shooting my belly

Holidays continued...

2011-01-10T13:31:00.001-08:00

The next part of the Holidays that comes up is my Birthday! I thought I'd put in a belly shot, not that there is much to show Birthday week but oh well.

Now no offense to my parents but having a December birthday is sorta lame. So to all you future parents out there try your best to plan on not having a kid-O during this month they'll thank you for it. Enough of me whining because Derek did make my day fabulous! Since this is our last year-well my last year without having kids until...well I die- he tried to make it as stress free and as much about me as possible. Between our fabulous lunch at the St. Regis, a day at the spa, and having a small friend gathering in Park City complete with my favorite marzipan cake my day was perfect from start to finish! Thanks Derek for taking the time to make the day so WONDERFUL!

Christmas and New Years were absolute BLASTS and of course we forgot our camera for both occasions so you will just have to take my word for it. :) But for Christmas we were able to spend time with both of our families which requires a lot of running around but it is always worth it to get to spend time with everyone! This year Derek and I really didn't want anything so we ended up getting each other baby gear! Which I loved! Hence the Harley Davidson baby shirt.

For New Years we kicked if off up in Oakley with family and friends but the best way to bring in the New Year was the fact that we got to have another ultra sound and see the baby again! We were relieved to see that he is a healthy baby boy! And to make it better they forgot to start the DVD player so we get another FREE ultra sound in a couple weeks so we get our DVD! They even took some 3-D photos which I posted below of the baby... now not everyone loves ultra sound shots so I am just going to warn you that all the photos from here on out are exactly that :) Starting with the slightly inappropriate "boy shot"

These are the 3D photos- maybe a little creepy

Thanksgiving

2011-01-05T08:23:00.001-08:00

I know the Holidays are over but I am still going to try and blog it. So let's start with Thanksgiving with the family in NYC

As always we did a lot of walking around town and Central Park

Alisha got a little into walking sometimes. . .

Tutu and the grand kids geocaching in the Park

Of course we enjoyed the Macy's Day Parade as it sailed by Thanksgiving morning

June and I got cold so we sat in the hotel lobby and enjoyed hot coco as the parade passed

Everyone dressed up to eat dinner! We went around the table so that everyone could say what they are thankful for and I don't know if it's the fact that I am pregnant or what but I was crying through almost the whole thing!

Of course there where plenty of antics that happened in the apartment. One being Derek making parachutes to send out the window. Below they are trying to get back up an unsuccessful parachute that landed on the deck below.

Best of all we were together and no one got hurt while crossing the street!

Happy Thanksgiving

XOX

Catching up on Summer!

2010-11-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

The other day I got on the blog and realized that I haven't done a post in months! Since I use this as a travel/life log of sorts I figure I better get caught up! Sorry there will be minimal text for the next couple blog posts just mainly pictures.

Here is our trip to Venice/Cruise through the Black Sea.

After a fabulous time in Venice where Derek and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary we headed to our Boat the Crystal Serenity and Derek took off to Israel for work.

On the Crystal Serenity we celebrated Sophia's 13th Birthday party, played bingo, lounged by the pool, and ate a lot!

This was a stop in Nesebar, Bulgaria. They sold giant Cigarettes I am talking foot long cigarettes.

We made two stops In Greece. First was Katakolon where we visited the Olympic Village and then we went to the very scenic Navplion

We made three stops in the Ukraine Yalta, Sevastopol, and Odessa

I love Istanbul, Turkey! The shopping, food, and atmosphere make it a really unique city to explore and it was even better having my side kick Sophia with me!

4th of July

2010-07-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

Where to even begin! Every year Sandie puts on an incredible three day rodeo at her Bar B Ranch in Promise, Oregon. They design belt buckles, T-shirts, have a variety of activities ranging form a 3K run, to mutton busting, to barrel racing, and skeet shooting, all while serving 200 people breakfast and dinner daily. This years theme was all redneck which brought in some stiff competition for those coveted belt buckles.

Kicking off the Rodeo

Trina and I won our belt buckles doing the canoe race and it was a close call with Alisha and Kristy as our competitors. It looks like our early morning practice payed off!

Talent night was a new event this year and there are a lot of talented people in the family. Trina and Benny looked like they belonged on dancing with the stars, nothing says America's got talent like the Knights Gummy Bear number along with Sophia's acrobatics. Derek and I also put together a little number and are open to playing at weddings, birthdays -you name it- with our one and only song.

Derek and I doing the Ma and Pa Relay race which I think I need to bulk up for in order to compete next year

Deja being a good spectator

Everyone lined up for the kids mutton bustin' action

In honor of the Redneck theme this year they held a demolition derby, that's right you heard me there were about 10 cars competing and Derek was one of the drivers! I didn't get any pictures of the event because I was too nervous watching Derek get smacked around out there.

I don't think anyone was more excited about the redneck theme than my mom who proudly won a belt buckle for the most "redneck camp"

The last belt buckle event is always the mechanical bull. It had a new engine put in it this year making it pretty challenging to stay on.

There is no way I can do the Bar B Ranch 4th of July event justice over a blog. It is the trip Derek and I look forward to most all year long! Thank you Sandie for being so incredible, creative, and loving. We love you and love that we get to share all these wonderful memories with you.

Deja was so tired from all the running around that when it came time to go home she couldn't bring herself to get up and onto the plane

Euro trip 2010

2010-06-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

Now that summer is here, and Derek doesn't have to be in school, we went for 15 days traveling through Eastern Europe arriving first in Prague...

Prague, Czech Republic

Before we left we decided to make it an adventure by staying in Hostels! We thought it would cut costs and it seemed like the European thing to do. So, we arrive in Prague and head to our hostel. After lugging our suitcases up 7 flights of creaky stairs we realized that the ceiling became lower and lower the higher we climbed so that by the time we got to our room . . .

We soon realized that Hostels are now a thing of the past for us so we lugged our suitcases back down stairs and checked into a Hotel, not Hostel.

While roaming the beautiful city we came across an Avon Convention, go figure.

We spent one day touring the city and decided to go to the Jewish Cemetery. This was a very unique experience. For some background, during WW2 all the Jews in the city where rounded up and put in ghettos and where not allowed to leave. There was a lot of disease, people, and death and as a result the cemetery became so full they began stacking graves 12 deep one on top of the other.

I loved the architecture and doors of Prague! It was the most beautiful city we had ever been too. Maybe someday when we build our dream home I can have an entrance door like these!

This was the tastiest thing I have ever eaten! I became obsessed and kept going back for more.

Taking the Train to Austria

Next we went into Austria with its breath taking landscapes.

Veinna, Austria

Eating my tasty Heibel Leiban-OK my spelling is probably way off on that one

Kielstein, Germany

Eagles Nest

We crossed the border into Germany to go see the Eagle's Nest which is a cabin/Chalet specifically built for Hitler on his 50th Birthday as a retreat.

The food wasn't all that great but it was situated in the German Alps so the view was spectacular!

This is our cute B and B we stayed at in Germany

Budapest, Hungary

Our whole reason for coming on this trip was for the Nu Skin Success Olympics in Budapest.

Before we got down to buisness we were able to a little site seeing.

The Sucess Olympics was one of the best Nu Skin events I have honestly ever attended. Hungarians have such great energy and are such fun loving people. At the event people had blow horns, whistles, they were standing on their chairs dancing. It was like being at a sports game and we loved every minute of it!

Father and son spieling a crowd of 3,000 people

At the charity auction event Derek and Craig put their ties in and they sold for 1,100 Euros.

On our last day there it was Derek's Birthday so everyone in the stadium stood and sang Happy Birthday to Derek. It was a perfect way to end our adventure.

I gotta see a man... about a horse

2010-05-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

The latest news here is Derek and Matt decided to Cowboy Up and get horses. They are two female 2 year old horses who are Zarah and the other is not quite named yet (so let me hear your best horse names).

This paint is the "Horse with no Name..."

This is Shae -transformed into the horse whisperer- training Zarah

As the training continues I will be sure to post any highlights as we saddle and ride them through out the summer!

A Pirate's Life

2010-05-19T15:53:00.000-07:00

We spent this past week tanning in 80 degree weather with family and friends at the Cove-I dare say summer is officially here-FINALLY!

Here be exactly what a Pirate's Life entails...

Here is the nature segment of our trip. We caught two rattle snakes, Chukka-wallas, and spotted a humming birds nest with two teeny tiny eggs in it!

We ventured out one evening into Vegas and we experienced Fremont Street for the first time!

Not sure what Derek did to get those mardi gras beads...

We spent 3 days out on the lake in 65 degree water and double wet suites

Thanks Craig for lettin' us enjoy a Pirate's Life! No better way t' kick off summer!

I'm shovin' off

Easter

2010-04-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

This year we spent Easter at Grandma Clara's who hosts the triathlons of Easter Egg hunts. This year didn't disappoint! It was a scavenger hunt that required a GPS! You answered questions and through the questions you got your coordinate point for the next egg (pretty high tech) mean while you are racing against six other teams! Total I think it was around a 3 1/2 mile run.

I am glad to say that even though I was chosen second to last my team won! Woot-Woot!

Zada was cracking me up this trip with all of her poses

Easter morning we went on a hike up Bryce Canyon... thanks to Derek we were able to get in a little adventure too :)

Now, this was Deja's first Easter and I am not sure she liked it all that much. Easter morning as everyone was unloading all of their Easter basket goodies on the floor Deja walks right in the middle of the group and decides to "unload" herself. From there it turned into chaos and the echoing screams of Alisha saying, "River move your toys!" still rings in my ears today.

So, even though Deja isn't the best student she is quite the athlete so here is a video to demonstrate her mad hops and with this I will end this blog on a high note.

Kauai-a little late

2010-04-24T10:41:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I am so behind the blogging scene! To catch you all up real quick during the month of March Sandy-ever so kindly- invited the family out to Kauai. Derek however had a lot on his plate with work and school and couldn't make it so my mom came with me in his stead.

It turned into a crafting, hiking, farmers market, Taylor camp adventure! Here are some picture highlights of the trip for your viewing pleasure.

Us girls hiking the Na Pali Coast and thanks to the rain storms it was beyond muddy. The best word to describe it would be would be quaggy- OK I looked that word up online I didn't actually know it off the top of my head

Tutu walked everyday to Taylor camp often with a row of grandchildren in tow. Here is Sophia looking like a MODEL in the Taylor camp river.

Crazy Grandpa and his beach antics

And here is all of the under water action that took place...

Thanks Tutu for all the family fun and memories. You are incredible, love you!

Need a Good Dog Sitter?

2010-02-17T07:17:00.000-08:00

We just wanted to post an online review of River Knight's Dog Sitting Business.

We recently employed River's services in watching our Rhodesian Ridgeback, Deja and we were extremely satisfied with the provided service!

River and his cohort Diesel went to great lengths to ensure Deja's puppy comfort while maintaining a positive and professional puppy attitude.

Deja remarked, "At first I was a bit nervous to be left with total strangers but the Knight's hospitality quickly made me feel at home in this motley crew."

Vander is an essential member of the puppy watching team. He supplied Deja with little snacks and puppy treats scattered throughout the house like manna from heaven.

River's dog watching company is backed by the strong support of his mother and father.

Alisha is quoted in saying, "I just can't get enough of my canine friends!!! If Jed would let me, I'd fill the house with these furry little guys."

Jed lovingly wears his hair long and feathery to fill part of Alisha's puppy void.

In closing Deja wanted to be quoted in saying, "I want to thank the Knight Family for providing this service to the general public and at only five dollars a day who can say no!?"

Please contact River Knight for all your puppy watching needs

Mexico

2010-02-12T11:56:00.000-08:00

We spent this last week kicking around the water in Akumal, Mexico at Half Moon Bay and let me just say when you wake up to an ocean view every morning you really begin to wonder why you chose to live in such a cold and snowy place...

My dad and his wife Kate invited us to go and nothing sounded better than a warm get away with great company!

We spent the majority of our time in the water. We went on about four Scuba dive trips. Two dives in Cozumel, one night dive in Akumal, and a Cenote dive.

I get cold really easily in the water so while Derek would wear a shorty diving I would wear a shorty under my full body wet suit! In the picture above I was going diving in a Cenote (fresh water caves) and they are really cold so I put on an arctic suit complete with a head cover and had the warmest dive of my life! Which means it was absolutely wonderful!!

We also saw a lot of sea life

Trumpet fish in the Yalku

Foreign Fish in the Yalku

Great White!?

Oh no it's just Derek who is Great and looking pretty White underwater

To bad you can't see that my entire body is 100% goosebumps! Not that the water isn't a pleasant 80 degrees, I am just weak sauce.

There were a lot of turtles in the bay in front of where we were staying

This is a 4.5 ft barracuda that I swam up on in some coral formations, me and the fish startled each other half to death. Derek kept trying to get me to swim next to it for scale but there was no way I was going near that thing seeing as it was almost longer than me and those teeth look so menacing!

The view at Tulum

My dad nicely offset by the crystal blue water backdrop

Derek and I testing out the waters of Tulum

There were hundreds of Iguanas everywhere we turned that seemed perfectly posed for photos

My dad ordering food, now for him the only essential words he needs to know in Spanish are as follows Coca, Langosta, and Zucaritas

Derek took us all out sailing on a catamaran one day

My dad was a little nervous about the whole thing

everyone else enjoyed it...

well except for when the boom came flying across hitting Kate and me in the head

Thanks Dad and Kate for the memories and adventures!

We love you XOX

Catch a Wave

2010-01-19T09:14:00.001-08:00

The other night a group of the cousins were able to go over to the Roney's house to try out their acclaimed artificial wave! It was one of the coolest things Derek and I have tried out-aside from being a little sore the next day- we all agreed that this is a quality investment!

There were a number of outstanding falls, which were probably more fun to watch then actually being out there on the wave. Oh and ladies a one piece is recommended because that thing will and I mean WILL rip your bathing suit off!

This is one of my super girly attempts at surfing...

Brady's Wedding

2010-01-11T15:15:00.000-08:00

After the New Year our family had some big changes happen. My Grandmother (Mom's Mother) passed away the same week that my older brother got married. We had a wedding one day and a funeral the next.

Both are rights of passages, marking new stages of progression for our family and it made the beginning of the new year bitter sweet.

Back in high school I lost a best friend due to an accident and I learned from that experience that in death you aren't losing someone you are simply passing them on to someone or something else and you learn and feel that they are still there it's just... different.

So, I want to start off my first blog of the year with my brothers wedding which I have no doubt that my grandmother attended. Now without further ado here they are Mr. and Mrs. Brady Daniels married January 5, 2010 at Le Jardin

I now have two darling nieces Allison and Mckayla. They were perfect flower girls and ring bearers' at the wedding.

My Grandfather and me getting ready to hit the dance floor.

Mckayla standing next to the cake

My mom signing the marriage certificate

All the girls; mothers, sisters, nieces, and new sister-in-laws

Here is a shout out from your sisters Brady and Audra,

CONGRATULATIONS! We Love You Muchos! Now go be happy

Christmas 2009!

2009-12-28T13:25:00.000-08:00

OK so with blogging I realize there are certain things that you can never fully explain or capture and Christmas is one of those.

Nothing is better than hanging out with friends and family for days on end, all in the comfort of your P.J's. There are only things that can add to the better-ness like Arnie's gravy, chocolate eclairs, or puppies that won't come back in the house.

We spent the first part of Christmas Eve in Deer Valley with Derek's family.

Vander seems to be silently contemplating the meaning of Christmas

Pheonix and Brandon in their new ever-so-manly jackets

If anyone ever wonders how "crazy grandpa" got his name you need wonder no more. Here he is up to his usual antics.

After dinner it was time for p.j time!

Grandma and Grandpa Neaman, Tutu, and Crazy Grandpa with all their grandchildren/great grandchildren

Next Derek and I went down to my mom's house for another Christmas dinner!

I did a horrible job at documenting the event but the picture of Madi and my mom's white German Shepard Blue should adequately sum up the festivities.

Christmas morning!

Deja getting her cute new collar, which she didn't seem to appreciate all that much.

River with is first BB gun from Uncle Derek. The one and only Red Ryder

My new motorcycle jacket!!! LOVE IT!

River got a new rat from Santa!

Here is the end of Christmas 2009 which could not have been documented so superbly if it weren't for a new camera from Santa!

Now for whatever reasons present opening always wipes a person out, even if it was only a measly new collar nap time is always in order after presents.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-07T19:03:00.000-08:00

Tokyo, Japan

This year our Thanksgiving was pretty non-conventional. We spent it in Tokyo, Japan and more importantly at the Disney Land Resort. I think that I had a bite of Turkey on Thanksgiving but I was using chopsticks and it was covered in soy sauce

We stayed in a Disney suite that had a style all Mickey!

There where two living rooms and this cute set up was in our end of town

Snuggle fest!

We spent several days roaming the streets and came across some pretty cool buildings, shopping, and fashion.

Derek's big thing he had to do this trip was get a local food known as "Ramen". Not the kind of ramen we get in the states... however even Sophia seemed to like it

In Japan they drive on the opposite side of the street and we did not take that into consideration as we were trekking about town. Bikers, walkers, and joggers were swerving out of our way and at the same time giving us odd looks as they passed. It dawned on me that we also need to be walking on the opposite side of the sidewalk.

Now in order for us to get to all of the shopping you saw from above we took the subway. Which was pretty efficient and not to difficult to figure out.

Derek making sure we are on the right track.

The women are not wearing those masks to ward off Derek's traveling stench. People all over Japan wear those masks to prevent the spreading and contracting of illnesses.

Does it actually work I have no idea.

Sophia took this shot as they were giving Derek further instruction. Nicely done and very artistic Sophia!

The Subways in Tokyo are some of the cleanest I have ever seen! Look at that floor- it shines!

So we couldn't be staying at the Disney Resort and not go to Disneyland

It was all decked out for Christmas. I also found it interesting that they play the exact same Christmas songs as we do in the states. For some reason that surprised me but I guess they are universal tunes.

You haven't seen lines until you experience Disneyland Tokyo. I am talking 30 minute lines just to get a tub of Curry popcorn... which I regrettably couldn't stand to wait for but I bet it was tasty.

We also wanted to go to the zoo because the guide book claimed it had Panda's and none of us had ever seen a panda before. So on our way there we would stop and check our directions with people on the street and we would say the word "Pandas" to convey where we were heading. It was through this tactic that people also started to mime a finger slitting a throats... in essence to say they were dead.

But we still were able to see a species called the Red Panda.

At the zoo they had clearly labeled trash bins as well. Which we found confusing. Sophia had to throw away her gum and turned to me and said, "Is gum an incombustible or combustible?" We settled on incombustible but to tell you the truth I am still not sure!

The sea otters were the life of the zoo. They would swim through these plastic tubes twirling and twisting. I wanted to take one home.

We also went to the fish market but by the time we got there most shops had closed up. Which I am more than fine with. It kept the smell to a minimum and we were able to see how people artistically painted their shop doors.

What is Japan without a Zen Garden? Above is a 300 year old pine tree. Those long poles in the picture are holding up the branches.

It was a terrific trip and many many many thanks to Sandie for letting us tag along! We enjoyed being with you guys every second. Thank you Thank you Thank you!

Happy Birthday Nu SKin!

2009-10-31T11:59:00.001-07:00

This year Derek and I became Blue Diamonds with the company so pre-convention the company took us on an all expense paid trip to Sin City! They put us up in a suite at the Bellagio complete with a view of the fountains and continued to wine and dine us for three days.

At the airport we must have seemed really excited about going on this trip because the person checking us in thought we were going on our honeymoon!

We spent a day at Pirates Cove where Derek-as always- WOWED the crowds with his diving skills. Next we where off to see the Beatles Circ du Solei show LOVE, which I LOVE!

We also went on a helicopter ride over Las Vegas and into the Grand Canyon. It was a really beautiful and scenic trip however helicopters do make me nervous. By the time we were headed back I was starting to feel at ease with the situation when we looked over at our helicopter pilot and saw that he was texting! Sheesh!

Some of the scenic shots we took along the 2 hour ride, which is a long time to be in a helicopter by the way.

It was a full three days packed with limo rides, fine dinning, and shopping. AHHH the life of a Blue Diamond. Thanks babe for all your hard work at making this all happen! Love You!

Next we were off the L.A to celebrate Nu Skin's 25th Birthday at the Nokia Theatre

To start off the event we attended the Nourish the Children Gala. This is always a high light at convention. It entails a great dinner, company, and a live auction. All proceeds are for the foundation and this years top bid was to ring the closing bell at the New York Stalk Exchange which went for $71,000!

All events for convention where held in the Nokia Theatre (this is where American Idol is held) and here is the view from our box seats where we were able to see all the celebrities who attended the event such as...

Arnold Swarzenegger

Gladis Knight

Natasha Bedingfield

along with our famous family members who appeared on stage

The last night of the event the block was closed off for a live band performance and as always you make many new friends! Peace out!

Wipe Your Paws

2009-09-22T15:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't been blogging lately because I am trying to keep up with the newest member of our family, Deja a Rhodesian Ridgeback pup. Now don't let theses photos fool you, it just so happens the only time she sits still is when she is sleeping so those make up the majority of our pictures.

Washington

2009-08-18T20:56:00.000-07:00

This post is a little delayed but I eventually got around to it. A group of us went to Washington to enjoy all it has to offer. Each night we had themed dinners and our night was Cajun night which we did out at the Tree house, check out our Armenian Khorovatz

Next are pictures displaying activities enjoyed while there.

Horse riding is always a highlight but an added bonus this year was 4 baby horses, two of which were only days old!

and of course bear watching

The next highlight of Washington is the beach!

Best kite flying beach around

What's a beach without a fabulous bonfire! It was a huge fire so roasting marshmallows proved to be a little intense. Note the long mallow sticks

An ending highlight was the Salmon run this year. Some were able to go and catch fish for the rest of us not willing to wake up that early

Thanks Craig!

Wedded Bliss

2009-07-24T07:59:00.001-07:00

Here it is our 1 year anniversary! It all feels so new and I am still getting use to the beauty of a constant companionship. All year I kept surprising myself at how much I love Derek in the odd moments. Whether I was sitting next to him on a smelly plane, staring up at Le Tour Eiffel, eating hagas, putting his laundry away, scootering through Santorini, or eating sharma in Istanbul, I just want him to know that

YOU are the best part of every experience.

I LOVE YOU!

4th of July

2009-07-06T18:36:00.001-07:00

The 4th of July is easily one of our favorite holidays! We celebrate it every year at the BarB Ranch (Sandie's home away from home) in Promise, Oregon. In good old fashioned rodeo style we spent 4 days competing in some stiff competition for the coveted BarB Ranch Belt Buckle. I am telling you blood, sweat, and tears goes into winning one of these!

The days are broken up into different events; Carnival Day, Lake Day, and Rodeo Day

Derek and Matt won the rowing competition this year securing themselves belt buckles early on in the games, lucky....

This is a big shout out to Sandie for hosting the best 4th of July ever!!! You have such a big heart and we are grateful to have a piece of it, We Love You!

Rodeo day is summed up in two words Athletic Event. I am serious you almost need to spend all year training for it. There are several events on this day but here are a few highlights. Below is Derek and me doing the rider re-lay race

Below is the ever so entertaining cash cow. This poor cow is plastered with various bills-there were $100's- and let loose into a coral of shopper friendly women

This is the mechanical bull riding competition. Derek is flashing the camera some leg oooo-la-la

There are also several children's events like mutton busting, sac races, etc... however, we don't have kids so I failed to capture many of these events. I did still catch a nephew here and there

Below are the local spectators

One of my favorite events is the barrel racing! Unfortunately I knocked over the 2nd barrel so I was out for the Belt Buckle win

Check out Trina's form! She never ceases to amaze

This is the latest and greatest BarB Ranch apparel in girls and boys style T's

This is Derek and me doing the Hide Race. The 4 Wheeler driver (Derek) has to race down to one end of the arena turn around a barrel without knocking it over then the rider (me) has to jump onto the cow hide that is being drug behind it and hold on as they race back to the other end for the finish. I am proud to say we had the fastest time and that meant I got myself a Belt Buckle!!!

Check out the bling!

What's the 4th without fireworks? We paddled out onto the floating green for a spectacular fireworks show to end another amazing 4th of July.

Nothing can bring a family closer together than the 4th of July and having to share a four wheeler

Let Him Eat Cake

2009-06-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

The other day I realized that Derek never officially had a Birthday cake since we were out of town and in good wifely fashion I decided to whip something up...OK whip something up is an understatement I found out about the world of Fondant Cake Making!

Now, because the cake was #1 my first attempt at Fondant and #2 the most time I have EVER spent on making a cake I felt it was blog worthy.

Happy be-lated Birthday Derek!

P.s Don't click to enlarge the image, it is like an impressionistic painting. From far away it is Ok but up close it is a big mess.

p.p.s You enlarged it anyway didn't you