All Because Two People Fell in Love

Christmas Morning part 1

2012-01-27T21:11:00.001-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve night and Christmas morning with Chris's parents this year. It was a nice quiet morning and was so fun to sit back and watch the kids. We had to wake them up around 8, because church was at 11. It was so fun to spoil the kids..and I love that they find delight in even the smallest things, and don't need tons of toys or huge expensive things to be happy..I love them so much. We were so blessed this year as normal..and we're so grateful to all our family for the gifts they got us and for housing us and feeding us for the week. We were back and forth staying at both of our parents all week and we had a blast. It was bittersweet to say goodbye, but we were lucky to have such a long Holiday break this year.

Mason's car track from from Gpa/Gma RoseAddy's dress-ups from Santa"papa...truck" (he carries and says this everywhere) Thank you dollar storeKinley's new blanket from Gma RoseChris got a neck pillow for the long bus rides to work..Mason had to try it out too.She loves her coloring bookslove these things at church..

Pre - Christmas

2012-01-27T20:10:00.000-08:00

We left for Idaho on the Thursday before Christmas. Chris's work got out early, so we were able to start our long drive about 4:00. The kids did great, and we got to Idaho Falls about 3am. My brother Travis and his family were in town from Oregon, and were leaving Sunday, so it was awesome to be able to see them for a couple days before they left. Carrie had tons of fun ideas planned for the kids leading up to Christmas..so we mailed letters to Santa, created a Polar Express night, made ornaments for the tree, etc. Saturday night, we had a Progressive Dinner with the Roses. There was so much good food, and it was fun to have everyone together all night.

Gingerbread houses..they never stick together for us

Mason's new random thing to doProgressive Dinner..Addy filled up on appetizers with Kyler:)Opening 12 Days of Christmas gifts from my parents...or playing in the packaging:)Kinley meeting Uncle Travis..I think she was smitten, or had him smittenGrandparents always have the best toys...Lincoln Logs!writing her letter to SantaKinley finding the joy of Chocolate. She rolled over, grabbed it, unwrapped it..and then I hear a sucking sound. She must have thought it was a chocolate bottle, and screamed bloody murder when I took it away:) My parents did the 12 Days again this year. The theme this year was "angels." I know it's so much work for them, and we have loved it every year. The kids look forward to it each night, and I know I have more pictures from this year somewhere. For some reason I couldn't find them all.

so behind!

2012-01-14T19:57:00.001-08:00

Looking through all the Christmas pictures just overwhelmes me right now. So here's my favorite picture from this week; in our beautiful 60 degree weather in January, to tide family over until I can find a break of a couple hours, to post Holiday pictures.

30!

2011-12-27T09:48:00.000-08:00

Today, Chris turns 30! It makes me feel old! haha jk. :) In honor of this special day, I want to write 30 things I love about him.

1 - He's patient

2 - He sees the good in everyone

3 - His laugh always makes me laugh

4 - He's got some mad moves on "Just Dance" for the wii.

5- He's active and healthy
6- He's well rounded and always wanting to learn more about so many things.
7 - He's faithful, grounded and immovable in his testimony
8 - He loves to cuddle
9 - AlWAYS makes me feel beautiful
10 - He's a hard worker
11 - Loves to save money, and keeps us on a budget
12 - Knows me better than I know myself
13 - Amazing kisser
14 - Surprises me with random acts of service around the house
15 - Gets down on the floor and plays with the kids
16 - He's black and white with morals..no grey area for him
17 - He's goofy
18 - He respects and enjoys being with my family
19 - Pushes me to be better in all areas
20 - He has a whole other goofy side when he's with old friends
21 - He's competitive with a feisty side when he play sports
22 - He rocks his sports uniforms
23 - Always first to say I'm sorry, even when he doesn't need to
24 - He watches reality TV with me
25 - He has big plans for our future
26 - He has a strong bond and loyalty with his family and friends
27 - He'll eat whatever I make, even if it's nasty
28 - He truly makes me so happy
29 - The kids have him wrapped around their fingers
30 - He's humble, Christlike, and giving

Chris, I love you more each day. I know you have to put up with so much being married to me, but I appreciate all your sacrifices and everything you do for me and the kids. You lift me up and make me feel like a queen each day. I hope that you always know how loved you are and how much I adore you. You're the best! Happy Birthday!

Ready for Church

2011-12-18T17:04:00.000-08:00

Backyard Family Pictures

2011-12-17T10:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we woke up from naps and I decided we needed to hurry and get a few pictures taken while the sun was still up. I texted my friend Jeannette and she hurried over to take some family ones for us. I couldn't have been happier with how they turned out..well, I take that back. Mason is usually a poser, but we had to wake him up so he was grouchy. Kinley is all smiles until a camera is in her face. But Addy made up for all that..she was perfect! These pictures make me smile so much!

Tis the Season

2011-12-17T10:35:00.001-08:00

It's been so fun getting ready for Christmas in our own house, starting traditions and having Addy understand more about Santa and all the excitement. We are so blessed and so happy with where we're at in our lives right now. We love and are so grateful for Chris's job, our ward, new friends, and our beautiful happy, kids that are the best of friends. playing before churchwe were able to get a few lights up this year. Everywhere we go, when Mason sees lights, he screams.."tree! tree!" he associates them with our Christmas tree:)eating before churchOur ward Christmas party was Hawaiian themed with roasted pigs and all. We sat with our friends and after the kids were done eating, they sat in the middle of the floor and pretended to give each other baths. Gotta love 3 year old imaginations:)KarleeKarsonAddyMason

Thanksgiving week

2011-12-07T09:45:00.000-08:00

We hosted Thanksgiving this year for the first time. Chris's parents, and Shawn and Tosha's family came down on Wednesday the day before Thanksgiving. His parents left on Saturday, and Shawn and Tosha left on Sunday. It was a full house, with lots of food, games, singing, movies, the flu and 2 trips to the strip. I was definitely stressed about Thanksgiving day, but it turned out just fine, and I learned a lot about what not to do/and what to have ready for next time we host. After that was over, I relaxed and we had a blast the rest of the weekend. Sadly, 6 people got the 24 hr flu while here, but it didn't stop us from having fun. While the women cooked Thanksgiving dinner, Chris and Shawn took the kids to the park to play. After dinner, we went to a Chocolate Factory in Henderson that has botanical gardens decked out in Christmas lights. It was really awesome, and the kids loved it. After that we headed down to the strip to see the Bellagio fountains, but traffic was crazy and we didn't know where to park..but we were able to see them while sitting in traffic:) Friday we ran some errands and that night we sang songs around the piano and Chris got out his guitar...and then we played some games. Saturday night we ate at Carrabba's, and then went down to the strip knowing where to park:) The Fountains are incredible, and then we went to Casear's Palace where we got lost trying to find the fire shows and aquarium. We ended up finding the aquarium, but not the fire show. But it was cool to see everything along the way:) I now know where all the shopping is! It's a maze down there and we definitely have a lot to learn about where to go. Sunday, we said our goodbyes and that's always hard to do. It was a fun week and here's the picture overload in backwards order:

saying goodbye

aquariumCasear's Palace poolfountainstalking tree in the botanical gardens in the Bellagiowaiting at Carrabba'splaying at the park

Thanks for an awesome week!

precious moments

2011-12-07T09:27:00.000-08:00

we have a huge problem of finding pants that fit his butt and thighs. thinking of starting our own line of clothes for boys with junk in the trunk :) sneaked a picture of him sleeping..I love his handsmy little auburn-haired girl...and still trying to figure out what color her eyes are
doesn't get any sweeter than this....

fast friends..

2011-12-06T17:16:00.000-08:00

If you talk to Addy now, you'll likely hear all about Karlee. Mason and Karson are still getting used to each other..working through the "my toys are mine" stage :)

we are loving the swap for date nights...this is the night we watched Karson and Karlee so their parents could go out. Mason kept hugging Karson, which he wasn't too sure about.

Addy adores Karlee..they're so similar, so they get along great.

The park is so much more fun with friends:

Can't forget the babies! Kinley did have a bow on, but Zedek thought it needed to come off:)

November

2011-12-06T16:33:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's already November! Or that we've already been living here almost 5 months! As hard as it is to be away from family, we absolutely love it here. We have to remind ourselves that it IS December, even though there isn't any snow on the ground. I am So grateful for the friends that I've made and the friends that the kids have. Lucky for us, there's a girl that I immediately clicked with that a has a little boy 1 month older than McKinley. So they'll be so cute to watch as they grow up together. They live in our development so they're super close. Then there's another girl that I met at a playgroup that has a girl Addy's age, and a boy Mason's age. How perfect is that!? We've had lots of playdates together and swaps for date nights and after meeting these girls, it has felt more like home and confirms that we're where we're supposed to be living. Our ward is amazing, with lots of young couples that we're excited to get to know better. Here's random picture from November.
This picture is almost a post in itself. We were at the park and I took him down the slide on my lap. Halfway down his foot got caught between my leg and the slide and twisted his ankle. We took him to the Urgent Care that night and it wasn't broken. But it took him 2 weeks to start walking again. Must have been a BAD sprain. This little girl can totally turn your day around with one little smile. The feeling I get when I look down at her and her whole face just lights up with a big smile is priceless.

catch up...Halloween weekend

2011-12-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

So, I have been in a major blogging rut. I've just had no desire to sit down and write. But with the holiday pictures coming, I knew I better catch up. Halloween weekend was so awesome. We got asked on the Wednesday before Halloween weekend to speak in church. I was overwhelmed with the thought of that and what to do with the kids. I jokingly asked my Dad to come down and watch the kids while we speak..knowing that wasn't an option. Well, little did I know he was planning on taking the week off anyway for some Dr appointments. He hadn't been down yet to see our house and they stopped to see friends in Utah on the way here and back, so it worked out perfect. We told the kids that some friends were coming over so it would be a surprise. It was priceless when they opened the door and I'm happy I caught it on camera. He took my Mom down to the strip on Halloween and they spent the afternoon and evening there. Chris and I were able to get a date in the next night. We had fun making sugar cookies, playing at the park, pumpkin patch, 2 trunk or treats and real trick or treating, and just relaxing. It's always so hard to say goodbye when we see family. Thank you so much for coming! We had a blast as always:)

we went to PF Changs for dinner

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the mountains here. They're incredible

My 2 babies

2011-10-28T20:45:00.001-07:00

This big boy had to grow up too fast with little Kin Kin coming so soon after him. He has such a special spirit about him. He always has a twinkle in his eye and just totally makes everyone around him smile. He's the biggest flirt when we're out in public and absolutely adores his big sister. Mason just turned 18 months and we can't imagine life without him. He's having a tough transition into nursery, because they separate the 3's from the 2's and he hates to be separated from Addy. He'll copy-cat most everything you say, and is always stealing Kinley's bottles and binkies. Like I said, he had to grow up too fast:)

McKinley (aka Kin Kin) is turning 4 months this month. I feel like we've had her forever. She is a sweetheart and is so patient with all the chaos around her. She's so alert and loves to be in the middle of it all watching her siblings. She's a cuddlebug and is getting the chunkiest legs:) She loves to talk and smile, even though we can't seem to catch it on camera:)

Trunk or Treat

2011-10-26T21:46:00.001-07:00

Tonight was a combined ward trunk or treat. It was packed..I've never seen such a huge Trunk-or-Treat! We're getting a cold North front right now, so it was actually chilly. I found a Minnie Mouse costume, and a red M&M costume at DI a month ago, but since there's another Community Trunk-or-Treat, and Halloween on Monday, I had Addy use one of her dress-up's for tonight. Here's pics right after I got them dressed. Mason was hilarious. He laughed the whole time I put tights on him, and then he loved to lay on the floor..it must have felt cool with all the grocery bags I stuffed him with.

the stuffing got all crooked, but you get the idea:)I know I'm biased, but Addy was gorgeous.

Oh, my sweet Addy

2011-10-25T17:47:00.000-07:00

We've been trying for months now to help Addy learn the difference between "being grateful" for things in your prayers and asking for things. She says grateful before EVERYTHING.

" grateful that I didn't listen today"

"grateful that I have my phone in my pocket"

"grateful that Mason hit Kinley"

"grateful that Daddy is sick"

"grateful they gave us candy at trick or treat"

and so on.....It's adorable, because I try to tell her to tell Heavenly Father everything she did that day, and she definitely does. She's just latched on to saying grateful before it all:) I guess she's just listening to Elder Bednar when he challenged us to say a prayer without asking for anything.

*I pray she never stops being so affectionate. She's learning about her emotions, and she's a girl who says whatever pops into her head. At least twice an hour she will come up and hug you and say, "I love you Mommy." When I leave to run, she'll hug me and say.."I'm just going to miss you." She tells Chris constantly when he gets home at night, "I've just been missing you Daddy."

*I love that randomly she'll tell Chris after he's gotten ready for the day, "you look cute in that shirt Daddy." ...or, "mommy, your hair looks cute like that."

*She cuddles with Kinley constantly, and you can tell there is a sweet sister bond there. No one can get Kin to smile like Addy does.

*Until recently when we separated her and Mason into different rooms, she would crawl into bed with him at night. It's so cute, but was not good for falling asleep:)

*She gives the best cuddles, and as much as she is headstrong, stubborn, and will fight to get her way...her sweet side will make you melt. We love this girl and are so grateful she's the oldest..she's the best big sister for Mason and McKinley.

Pumpkin Patch Video

2011-10-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to upload a dancing video of Mason and Addy, but it's not working.

October Fun

2011-10-20T11:06:00.000-07:00

Picture overload:

Ready to go to the park

The other night we bbq'd for dinner and the kids got super messy. We hosed them off, then came inside to dry off. Hence the naked kids:) They love each other so much. If one kid is laying down, they all have to. They are literally never apart.

Addy got wet, but then thought the 70's in the evening was cold:)

His diaper is enormous from sitting in water..those Costco diapers hold a ton!
Pumpkin Patch...it is adorable!Addy is up at the top of the slide and just sat up there watching other kids go down. Finally, Chris took Mason up and went down with both kids.Addy climbing the stairs. First time in the bumbo! She does smile a lot, I just never seem to get in on camera.The other day, Addy had the 24hr flu...and all she wanted to do was watch Dora with Kinley.

Getting moved in

2011-10-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

FINALLY! We got our stuff moved down a couple weeks ago, and it took me about a week to unpack everything. Decorating is still in the works, but we've got everything in closets and put away. It is so calming and we finally feel like we're HOME. We now get to relax at night and hang out together in the living room and watch movies or play games.

Mason's new favorite toy: the step-ladder. I think it's adorable.

This is what I found when I came down the stairs. Someone thought Kinley would enjoy Elmo, and she did enjoy tasting his eyeballs for awhile.

They kept saying, "look Mom, it snowed"!!

Her camera face

Fun with Grandma

2011-10-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

We had been watching for some cheap Allegiant flights and a few weeks ago we had my mom fly down to visit before she started a new job/school. Sadly we didn't have any of our stuff moved down yet, and we didn't go down to the strip...but we played outside, went to parks, had picnics and I hope she had fun. We LOVED having her here and her departure just came too fast and we were so sad to see her leave.

sleeping beauty

it looks like Addy is licking my mom, but she had chocolate all over her mouth and chin.
cuddle-time

Thank You SOOOO much for coming down!

work and play

2011-10-15T20:39:00.000-07:00

We found a splash pad park that is only a couple miles away. We were SO happy, and we go there at least 3 times a week. There's parks everywhere, but we live up on the mountain, so it's about 3.5 miles to go down into town. So we were so excited to hear about this one, and there's one being built that will be even closer.

Addy has become such a little monkey.

Mason still just chases the girls around

These are from when we first moved in. Helping daddy with the hard work:)

She loved to use the drill to put together their bunk bed. I love her underwear tucked into her shorts:)

Loving our yard!

2011-09-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

We may not have our stuff moved down here yet, but that hasn't stopped us from having fun in our yard. It is gorgeous, it's private, and we LOVE it!

in between

2011-09-22T10:40:00.000-07:00

These are all just a bunch of random pictures from when we were at the 1 bed furnished apartment for a month. (after the hotel, and before moving into our house)

nothing better than baby smiles my little helpers

Swings!

2011-09-21T18:45:00.000-07:00

Finally, Mason likes the swings! Addy loved them from the very start..it's taken him a year.

Stolen Identity

2011-09-21T18:17:00.000-07:00

I don't want this post to be taken the wrong way..I write my blog for my family's journals, and scrapbooks. So when I have thoughts that need to be written down, this is where it happens. I keep it open for the rare chance that someone else might be feeling the same way and need to know they're not alone..and for those long lost friends that might come across and it want to keep up with us.

So our new Relief Society Presidency came over last week to get to know me and our family. After chatting for awhile, they each talked about themselves and then wanted to know me and what I like to do etc...it was funny, when they asked, "what do you like to do?"..I had to pause for a minute and then I answered "I can't remember." At first I laughed it off...and then answered with things that I used to do and loved.

I know motherhood shouldn't become that, but for some us, our situations add up to that. For Chris and I, we've been married 4 years and now have 3 kids. We moved every 6 months for the first 3 years, and have been scraping by while he's been in school. That doesn't allow for a lot of going out and doing things that may cost money..ie (girls nights that are at restaurants, movies, shopping, sports leagues, etc), hobbies such as crafting cost money..and the list goes on. It doesn't allow for hardly any "me" time, when kids come that close and need your attention 24/7. I can't even go to the bathroom or shower without kids trying to dive in or them pounding down the door. I'm not writing this post to complain about having kids, or the fact that I'm blessed to be able to stay at home, or complain about money. It's just when they asked me that, I realized how long it's been since I did things I love, that I couldn't remember what I used to do. All I could think of was..."I would like to get out."

How do you balance that line between your identity and being a mother? Or is that your new identity once you have kids? I have lots of friends that have frequent girls nights and that are in sports leagues, that get plenty of time away from the kids to get out on their own. Not to point fingers, but the ones that get out the most are the ones with husband's that work from home or who own their businesses etc so they can come and go and help out more. Now that Chris has this job, maybe things will calm down more so we can find our own routine that will allow for more time away. I don't even know what I'd do if I got a few hours to myself..sadly, the past few years my first answer would be to sleep.

Here's some things I've thought up that I want to do with time to myself:
Exercise (run, Zumba or crossfit class, a video w/out kids crawling all over me)
read
play the piano
make crafts
watch a movie
get my hair done
hang out with friends

not very exciting, I know. But I can't remember the last time I did any of those without kids whining and interrupting. This was just a post to ramble..not to complain, because I know how blessed I am. I love my kids, and they are my life. They make my life so worthwhile..it's just their needs to be "me" time in there as well.

McKinley's Blessing

2011-09-06T14:59:00.001-07:00

We had an AWESOME time in Idaho this past weekend. We had lots of time with family and Chris gave McKinley the most precious blessing. Of course blessing days are always so overwhelming and she was done being held and passed around and was exhausted..so we don't have very many happy pictures of her:) Big thanks to all of our family that was there, we're so blessed to have such amazing families. It was so great to see everyone. While we were there, we accepted a deal on a house to rent, so it's very exciting to be back here in Vegas getting ready to move into our own house and FINALLY get settled and start this new phase in our lives. I am beyond excited.

Kinley, we love you more than words can express. You have such a sweet spirit about you, and I can't remember life without you in our family. It feels like we've had you forever, and your brother and sister absolutely adore you. You're such a beautiful angel, and I'm so excited to watch you grow up and see your personality come out and bond with your siblings. We're so lucky to be your parents.

for fun..

2011-08-30T17:12:00.000-07:00

hmm..think these faces look a little guilty?? What Mom, we weren't doing anything..except maybe emptying our water bottles in the dryer:) sleeping in the middle of the living room floor with addy and mason playing tag..she's amazing.
i love mason's face in this...and yes, addy's new thing is just wearing underwear.just doesn't get any cuter:)

McKinley aka (Kin Kin)

2011-08-30T17:01:00.001-07:00

I can't get enough of this little sweetheart. She had a rough start to life with bad gas, but that's so much better now, and she's an angel. Thank goodness since my hands are full with the other two crazy kids. She's 7 weeks old and has started cooing and smiling the past couple weeks. It absolutely melts me..everything else in the world stops when she locks eyes and you can see her recognize you and she starts to smile.

Splash Pads

2011-08-30T16:01:00.000-07:00

There are so many amazing things about Vegas, but one of the things that tops the list is their splash pads and parks. At least this one. It is INCREDIBLE! The giant flowers are the coverings over the picnic tables.Trying to get Mason used to the watermad that we kept throwing his ball in the water to make him get wetisn't it adorable!?!I love how he walks..so cute!

Natural History Museum

2011-08-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

We had heard that there's free shark feedings at this museum every Saturday, so we definitely wanted to check it out. It is such an AMAZING museum. The kids loved it and Chris and I loved it.
In each area they had buttons under each animal that you could push and hear the sounds they make. Needless to say, Addy and Mason were loving it.

Mason found a friend:)

My favorites were the dinosaurs. When this one roared.....

...these were their faces:)he loved that the fish tanks were at his level
pushing the buttons

checking out the sharks and sting rays

Life in a hotel room

2011-08-30T11:52:00.000-07:00

We are SOOOOOOOO happy to be out of this hotel. It was fun for awhile, and we made the best of it. But we are all so relieved to be out of it and in an apartment. The kids are loving having room to run around and I'm so happy to have a furnished kitchen and big bathroom.

it was interesting sleeping with 2 kids in our room...we've only ever done it when we're on vacation.

Rose Reunion

2011-08-30T11:22:00.000-07:00

Wow, I didn't realize we took hardly any pictures. We weren't even there 24 hours though. Chris flew in on a Friday at 2pm..we loaded up the car and headed up to the cabin in Island Park to see family before we moved down to Vegas. We haven't had much luck with warm weather the past couple years up there, so no swimming while we were there. It was so great and I'm glad we went, because everyone was there except Dan and Mike..so we were able to see almost everyone. Addy and Mason were sick, so they weren't in the best moods. Hopefully next summer we'll all be in good health and we'll have warm weather so we can jump in the lake!

I am so grateful for the wonderful blessing of marrying into such an incredible family. I feel bad that I don't have as many pictures of us with them as I do with my family. But I want them to know how grateful I am for all they do for us. There's no way we'd be where were at today if it wasn't for all their help. My kids are so blessed to have such amazing Grandparents and aunts and uncles that have been so close by. They talk about them all the time, and it makes me sad that we're so far away right now. Chris's mom took the kids each week for a whole day after I had Kinley, and I can't express how much help that was. Plus, Addy and Mason LOVED it and would live there everyday if they could. Thank you for everything!!

some random thoughts on motherhood

2011-08-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

It makes you scream, laugh,

cry happy tears, cry overwhelmed tears, cry for no reason at all.

It's go, go, go from sun up til sun down...and a lot of the time, in between.

There's moments that you never want to end, and moments that you can't wait to end.

It can make you feel on top of the world, and on the bottom.

There's just nothing else like it.

I was so unprepared to be a mother...and then ready for number 2...and then more than unprepared for 3. The past 3 years have been amazing and so overwhelming. We've been married 4 years, and there just hasn't been a break or ever a time to be newlyweds. It's been up and down and yet so fulfilling.
I know we'll never be perfect, and that we all lose it from time to time. But sometimes, I really wonder what Heavenly Father was doing sending me 3 so close in a row. I want to be able to be patient and give them each the time they deserve. It's so hard sometimes when all 3 want my attention. I want to be the mom they deserve, and a lot of the time I fall short. I have my good days and bad. I've cried many tears over this..on feeling inadequate, on yelling more than I should, on wanting to just jump in the car and drive away to get a break, on missing my body and feeling ugly, missing being able to just jump in the car and go to the gym, or shopping whenever I want, on wanting time alone with my husband, on needing to sleep straight for a month...and on and on. And then I cry because I feel guilty over throwing a pity party when so many people I love can't have children. I know I am extremely blessed to have children..and so easily, even when I'm on birth control. I am so grateful, and even though I throw these pity parties from time to time - these 3 little kids make me happier than I've ever been. That's why Motherhood can make you feel the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. It's the most rewarding thing, and pushes you to your limits. It's amazing how a little coo from Kinley can just melt my heart and I can stare at her forever watching her smile and make faces...such a simple thing, but so rewarding. I have such 3 fun stages right now, and it's stressful, but it's amazing how each one makes me appreciate the others. Going from holding Mason to Kinley keeps her a baby longer and I'm able to appreciate and stay in the moment of her being so small. Otherwise they grow so fast and you miss that infant stage. But I get to savor each stage when I get to compare them to each other right now.
It's so hard to not watch others and compare yourself. There's moms I look at that make it look so easy. They always look amazing, they have a clean house, they go shopping and their kids are quiet, they just seem to have it all figured out. Maybe I'll get to that point someday. One thing I've learned along the way is to take it one day at a time. There will always be things each day that will stress us out, but to step back and focus on the little things. We can only do our best, and for me right now, I'm surviving. We'll soon have a permanent job, house and life can calm down for us. Until then, I keep repeating Hilary Week's song, " Believe in what you're doing, Believe in who you are...and hold tight, to the truth, that you're a Daughter of God..Believe in who you're becoming, believe in who you are."

Goodbyes

2011-08-29T12:02:00.001-07:00

This is a post I've definitely been putting off. Just looking at these pictures brings the tears back. Saying goodbye was not easy. Living with my parents for the summer was bittersweet. Of course we missed Chris, and nothing can replace being back with him. It was the hardest thing I've ever done being away from him and hearing Addy talk about missing him. We would always count down the days till he would come visit and I hated bedtime when I'd have to go to bed alone and start the days all over again by myself. Transitioning from 2-3 kids alone was so hard. But, when we started this whole process..my parents were so quick to offer their home to us. They were able to fill the void as much as the situation would allow. It's hard to put into words the relationship my kids have with them. It's so sweet to watch. Addy and my Mom are like soul mates, and same with my Dad and Mason. He would light up and follow my Dad around every weekend when he would come home from his trips. I'm so grateful beyond words for their help. I was going through such a hard time, but they helped make it easier and we couldn't have done this without them. Those few months have some special memories and we have definitely missed them since being down here.

Saying goodbye

Thanks again for everything

Time with Darik's Family

2011-08-29T11:16:00.000-07:00

Darik, Kristine and Ellie came up to my parents about a week before we moved down to Vegas. It was their first time meeting McKinley and little did we know, they would be moving across the country for Darik to start work with Virginia Tech. We were able to go down to Poky to say goodbye before they left on this fun adventure.

Kristine, Kinley and Batty

Ellie and AddyMy poor Mom..Darik and I were the last 2 siblings that were still in Idaho. Now she has a kid in Oregon, Arkansas, Nevada and Virginia

such a stud

still here...

2011-08-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

First, I don't know why it's underlining everything, but I couldn't and didn't have the time to fix it.

Wow, I've never been this behing on blogging before. It got so overwhelming to think about, that I just totally put it off. But, my goal is to get all caught up before we move again. I'll update our Vegas adventures and work stuff later. Here's all my random pics from back when we were at my parent's house in Idaho.

Mason is such a special kid...SO happy and makes everyone around him happy.
McKinley's first Sunday at church...I believe this was at 3 weeks.

My Dad took the liberty of teaching Mason and Addy how to spit water...then when they did it inside, he had to teach them that it's only okay when they're outside and not at people :)

I love that he taught her how to do dishes:)

"We're a Family Again..!"

2011-08-12T10:37:00.000-07:00

this is what Addy's been saying everyday this week:)

This our temporary home. There's 12 buildings..it's an extendedstay hotel, but looks more like an apartment complex.
This is what Kinley does while Mason and Addy swim with Chris. The heat puts her right to sleep:)

Their new favorite thing to do..we go at night when the sun has gone down.

We're working on getting Addy to trust her life jacket and let go of Chris..not so easy when she hates water in her face or ears;)

Mason's face is priceless when he gets in..I love his blue eyes with his jacket!

Thanks Grandma & Grandpa Rose for the jackets..we're putting them to good use!

We temporarily moved down with Chris last weekend, since his internship wanted him to stay another month. After 12 weeks apart, we'd had enough of that..so we're in an extendedstay hotel with him for the month of August. His job position has finally been approved, now we're just waiting for them to post the job online since they're legally required to do so, interview people etc...even though the position is his. So who knows how long this will take, since it's taken over a month to get his position approved. But we're very excited that we're almost done and to a point in this process that is going to feel like heaven!! We love having Chris come home each night, and seeing the kids' faces when he walks in his priceless. Mason follows him around everywhere saying "Daddy" over and over, and Addy runs up and gives him the biggest hugs and says,"Daddy's home, I'm so happy!!" I feel the same way:) Getting out of the hotel room during the day with all 3 kids by myself has been an adjustment. I definitely get a lot of staring and people saying, "wow, you have your hands full!" The heat makes it difficult too..105 at a park isn't too fun yet until the kids adjust to the heat, and McKinley gets older. So we do exciting things like going to WalMart and Albertsons:) haha. I haven't ventured out driving to a mall yet. But swimming at 8:00 at night has been our highlight of the week so far. I still have posts to do before this one..but I wanted to get some pics up of what we've been doing for their Grandmas and Grandpas that we miss so much.

4 years

2011-07-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

Love is passion, obsession, someone you can't live without. If you don't start with that, what are you going to end up with? Fall head over heels. I say find someone you can love like crazy and who'll love you the same way back. And how do you find him? Forget your head and listen to your heart. Because, the truth is there is no sense living your life without this. To make the journey and not fall deeply in love - well, you haven't lived a life at all. You have to try. Because if you haven't tried, you haven't lived.

-Meet Joe Black

4 years ago today, we were sealed for time and all eternity. Best decision of my life. I knew from the first time I prayed about him, that he was the one I was supposed to marry. Chris makes me a better person in every way. He completes me, strengthens me, and believes in me. He's one in a million and I'm so grateful each day to be his wife. These 4 years have been hard, but the best 4 years of my life. He's proof that fairy tales do come true. He's made and continues to make all my dreams come true. Thank You babe for your patience, for your faith and for being the best husband ever. I love you more than you'll ever know.

sibling love

2011-07-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things is watching these two play together. Especially with Mason walking now and me spending so much time with McKinley..they've grown really close. I can't imagine life without siblings..so I'm really grateful that they have each other. As hard as it is on me to have them so close in age, it's worth it watch them become best friends. They adore each other and they adore McKinley...and I especially adore them.

helping him up the step onto the concrete

wagon time

last few days with Chris

2011-07-18T18:09:00.001-07:00

We'll start with this sweetheart:

precious McKinley chillin in the bouncer outside while we playHe can never lay down without getting attacked:)Bedtime stories with DaddyPool time at Shawn and Tosha's

saying we miss him would be the biggest understatement ever...

July 6, 2011

2011-07-18T16:25:00.000-07:00

We arrived at EIRMC at 6am on July 6, 2011 for an induction for McKinley. We didn't want to risk Chris not being here for her birth, so we decided to have it scheduled. They hooked me up to the iv's, and then started pitocin around 7:30-8am. Dr. Hall broke my water around 8:30..and then they increased the pitocin every half hour. At 11am I was given a pain med since the contractions were so intense..and the anesthesiologist was suppose to be busy for another half hour. He came in 5 minutes later and I was out from the other pain med and the epidural. I slept for about 45 minutes and when they came back I was at a 9 and ready to start pushing. 6 pushes later, and McKinley was born at 12:36pm. I felt a lot of pain this time, so I don't know what really happened with all the pain meds, but everything went great. I thoroughly enjoyed my time alone at the hospital this time, knowing it was the only time I was going to get any sleep in the next 6 months. It was and has been a whirlwind of emotions, with Chris being gone, having a baby..trying to adjust to 3 being so close, etc. But nothing can describe what you feel as a mother, giving birth and then holding those sweet angels and making eye contact with them. It's amazing. I love this little girl so much, and I absolutely cherish holding her as much as I can, knowing they grow up so fast.

awesome hospital pictures..I was so out of it, but it's the only one we have as a family.

leaving the hospital

It's been crazy being home, especially with Chris gone - but thank goodness for family to help take Mason and Addy off my hands. It's been taking a lot longer to recover and to feel like myself again this time around..but I think it's because I was barely getting back on my feet after having Mason when we got the shocker that I was pregnant again. But were slowly adjusting...it'll be a lot easier to figure out a routine when we're all together with Chris again - with our own house, job offer etc. We're almost there though!! As hard as it is..we are so blessed and I love watching the kids learn to interact with each other and see their automatic connections with each other.

Fireworks!

2011-07-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

After the parade, we went home and took a nap. Then went into Chris's parent's house for a picnic and home to relaxed until we went into the fireworks. The kids did great despite being kept up so late and not getting their regular naps.

cuddle-time waiting for the fireworks.Their faces were priceless when that first boom went off.

4th of July Parade

2011-07-14T12:08:00.001-07:00

The Parade deserved a post all of it's own, because of all the pictures we took! It was SO much fun this year. Addy was at a perfect age to enjoy it, and we had our best friends in town to watch with us. Jared and Lynette came up with their 2 girls which are the same ages as our 2. Brooklyn is a month older than Addy..and Lily is 2 months older than Mason. It's always a blast when the kids get to play.

They played ring-around-the-rosies until the parade started.Played with the ants..Me 2 days before I had McKinley..and teeny tiny Lynette.One of my favorite pictures ever..the fire truck blared it's horn and scared Mason, so Addy comforted him for a few minutes. She was so excited when she saw the tiger..but not so excited when it got close.

Driggs

2011-07-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

Friday the 1st, Chris flew in for the week. It was so adorable watching Mason take some of his first steps to Chris when he saw him. I had acupuncture done that day, thinking it would for sure put me in labor that weekend. It actually did the opposite and slowed down a lot of the pain I'd been having for a couple weeks. The next day, my Dad told us about some of the celebrations they were doing up in Driggs for the 4th. It sounded kinda fun, so we loaded up the kids and went up for a few hours. Addy was able to watch the pig races and jump on some of the big blow up toys . Then we just relaxed up on the hill and ate some snacks. It was a day of no naps, so the kids were exhausted. We had fun though and the drive is so gorgeous!

McKinley Rose

2011-07-12T18:38:00.000-07:00

This is what I've been too busy cuddling and staring at the past few days to bother updating my blog. She's perfection and she's got us all wrapped around her finger. Introducing:

McKinley Rose

born 7/6/2011 at 12:36 pm
7lbs 1oz...20 in

Addison

2011-06-29T14:02:00.001-07:00

I can't believe my Addybug is 3!! She is growing up so fast! She's such a sweetheart, so affectionate, yet at the same time she's independent and headstrong. We love her so much and are so grateful for the opportunity to be her parents. She's the best big sister we could ever hope for, for Mason and McKinley. She can't wait for her little sister to come, and reads books to her everyday and gives her kisses on my belly. My Mom and I did our best to spoil her on her birthday, and she'll have more of that when Daddy comes home this weekend.

We started out the day with some smaller presents and french toast with blueberries. Yes, her pj's are mis-matched, but that's how she rolls when she dresses herself for bed.

She's always trying to play the flute like Dora with straws and random toys..so luckily they had some for $1 at WalMart and she plays it non-stop.
We've been telling her for a couple months now, that when she turns 3 - she can't wear diapers anymore. We tell her 3 year olds go in the potty and don't wear diapers. It's been such a battle with her, no rewards or prizes or any of the million tactics for potty training out there work with her. So this was our last resort..and it has worked so far! We got her the panties that she wanted for her birthday and started today (the day after her birthday) and there have been no accidents so far.

All dressed and ready for the day. She's been pulling this pose lately when I ask her to smile for a picture. She's trying to show me her bum..no idea where she got that.
We headed to Blast-Off for a couple hours..they have SO much fun there! But it's always more fun when Daddy is there to crawl through all the tunnels with her and chase her around.

Then after naps, we went to the library, picked up dinner at Burger King, and came home to eat, have cake, and open her big present. She LOVED her own mini Dora cake.

Her big girl bike! For some reason, the back tire doesn't touch the ground..so when she pedals it's like she's on a stationary bike at the gym. We'll have it fixed soon..but her and Mason have both had fun playing with it anyway.

Addy, you make us so happy everyday. We couldn't have asked for more in a daughter - you're growing up to be such a beautiful, smart, sweet girl and I hope you always know how much you're loved. Happy Birthday!

Sprinklers and Pregnancy

2011-06-22T13:59:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was another water day, except with friends that we miss living by! Mason still hasn't caught on to how much fun playing in the sprinklers can be..so he just sits and gets tan.

I love her face when she found out she can control the hose and spray everyone. She didn't use to be such a water lover, but she does now!!

And, I need a moment to vent. My due date is technically the 12th, but we've planned an induction for the 6th so that we don't risk Chris not being there. I'm also going to have acupuncture done on the 1st - so were crossing fingers that works. So it could be next weekend or 2 weeks away, but I've been having contractions everyday for a couple weeks now. I'm to the point where I ache and cramp in my lower back and stomach all day. I feel like a bowling ball is just sitting there waiting to come out. I'm exhausted and can't sleep..and going up and down stairs, doing housework and trying to play with the kids is just sending me over my limit. I got uncomfortable with the other two at this point, but was never having contractions that stop me in my tracks. I'm just praying that they are meaning something and she's getting ready to come early.

I absolutely LOVE being a mother..there is just nothing like hearing, "I love you Mommy" ten times a day from Addy and getting cuddles and kisses from Mason. I love watching them grow and learn new things each day. I love all the silly things that come out of their mouths and rocking them at night. But, I'm not ready to have Mason not be my baby. He still is a baby..he's only just turning 14 months and I'm not ready for him to have to be a big brother already. I'm so scared of him feeling left out and having to monitor my attention with all 3. But, the amazing thing about kids is they adapt so well. Addy LOVES being the big sister and can't wait for McKinley to come. I love knowing that a few years down the road they are all going to have so much fun together. I love knowing I get to experience the sacred process of giving birth soon and holding that little spirit that just came from heaven. There's nothing like it. I know it will all work out, but I'm still nervous and scared and I know it will be that way for the next few months. I just keep praying this internship gets cut short and we can get the job and move and have Chris back and be a family again. K, I'm done venting:)

Father's Day

2011-06-21T06:59:00.000-07:00

There's just really not any words that can adequately express what an AMAZING Father Chris is. I always knew he would be great, but he has surpassed all my expectations. Addison, Mason and McKinley are SO lucky to have him for their Daddy. They love and adore him. He's always worked hard each and every day, going to school and work to meet all their needs..and still would come home and play with them until bedtime when he'd read books and sing songs with them. Thank You Chris, for being the man that you are...for taking care of us and making us happier than we ever knew was possible. We LOVE you and MISS you so much!!

Can't wait to post pics with you and McKinley in a couple weeks:) !

Fun in the Sun

2011-06-20T19:02:00.001-07:00

What do we do when we finally get weather in the 70's, with not a lot of wind?? Since this was one of only a few days that we've like this, we busted out the sprinkler and put it under the tramp..and the kiddie pools and played! Addy LOVED the sprinkler under the tramp..it was the first time we've done it, but she kept saying, "I like this game!" Mason didn't really join in since the clouds were coming in and it started getting cold, but he liked crawling around and splashing his hand in the pool. He's such a little stud with his bright blue eyes, hair getting blonder and he's finally getting a tan:)

Part 2

2011-06-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

Chris worked overtime this month, which we took the opportunity to use and have him come home again on Father's Day weekend. The thought of going a whole month without seeing each other was too overwhelming. His next trip home will be the first of July for the baby! We didn't get to celebrate Father's Day on Sunday with him since he had to leave in the morning to drive back, but we soaked up every minute with him Friday and Saturday. We had a Father's Day/June Birthday party with the Roses Saturday night..and during the day we took the kids to a carnival they've had set up in town. It was perfect, with lots of little rides for younger kids. The next couple weeks are going to be busy..which is bittersweet. It'll make the time go by quicker, but at the same time I'm still nervous to have 3 kids 3 and under, and the possibility of Chris being gone still for another month. But I am SOOOO ready to be done being pregnant for a LONG time. We have an Anderson reunion coming up this weekend. Addison turns 3 next week on the 28th! I can't believe it..but she's so excited! And then Chris will fly in the 1st!
Friday:

Poor Addy must have had an allergic reaction on Saturday to something..her right cheek got so red and puffy. And notice how everyone is bundled up and cold..it's the end of JUNE!! Get me out of here and down to Vegas!

presents!

Mason stole her bat and ball

we forgot a lighter, so they had to pretend to blow out the candles.

I never have pictures of me when I'm pregnant..especially at 38 weeks..but at the least the stroller is covering me:)

Addy LOVED every minute.

I want on!!!

I'm so glad when Daddy comes home...

2011-06-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

First trip home, the first weekend in June:
I wish I had video of the kids when they saw Chris pull up in the parking lot on Friday morning. Mason almost jumped out of my arms, yelling "papa! papa!" and Addy squealed, Daddy's home!! and ran after him. It was the sweetest thing. He left Vegas around 8:30pm and drove through the night, stopping to rest a couple times. It's a long drive, not a lot of time here and costs a lot..but SO worth it. I wish I could say it gets easier..but everytime we have to say goodbye it just gets harder and harder for me. We made the most of it though and once again, I'm so grateful for such a hardworking husband that is willing to make this sacrifice to get a good job for us. I just keep praying that we'll get offered a job before this internship is up, so we don't have to do this the whole 12 weeks.

the past few days..

2011-06-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

So obviously I didn't stick with the updating everyday thing. For many reasons, but mainly..1: I talk to Chris everyday, so I didn't need to put that on the blog everyday. 2: it made time go slower. So, I prefer the weekly update with pics and the highlights of what we did that week. These pics are mainly from this past weekend.
There's 3 weeks left till baby McKinley comes..I am sooooo ready to be done being pregnant..but scared to death to have 3. I'm progressing right along, so hopefully everything will work out and she'll either come early or my induction on the 6th will go smoothly when Chris is here.

Anything he can push, he uses as a walker.

There's a couple 8 yr old girls in our ward that love to play with Addy. So they were over last night to jump on the tramp with her.

Cheese!

Picking flowers

Pushing Addy in the car

From day 1, he loves to burrow in blankets and anything soft. So when we lay out the blanket on the grass, he's rolling around in it for 10-15 mins.

Sunshine!

2011-06-10T16:44:00.000-07:00

Finally! After a week of rain, we got one good day of sunshine. Even though it wasn't "hot," I busted out the pools and put the kids in. With the breeze, it was a little chilly for playing in the cold water, but we enjoyed the nice warm rays anyway.

Chris's schedule is usually M-Th, 7-5..but he's working overtime this weekend since they're blowing some stuff up and it's really good experience. Plus, time and a half can never hurt. So he worked till 8 yesterday and is working 6:30-6:30 today and tomorrow. Some people ask if it's getting any easier, and my answer is an easy NO! I absolutely hate being away from him, and hearing Addy say she misses him. But I keep praying and having faith that will we have a job offer soon and we can move and be a family again. Plus, in a few weeks I'll have this baby and all the extra hormones will be gone:)

he got bored and went to play in the dirt

time to lay in the sun and get warm..

our little bull-dozer

2011-06-08T18:26:00.000-07:00

she was laughing until he pushed on her neck:)

such a patient kitty...

Mason's first haircut!

2011-06-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

I've debated for so long, whether or not to cut Mason's hair. I finally decided that it's not thick enough yet to grow...and since he's so on the move..I took the razor to him instead of trying to trim it with scissors. He actually did really good. He was turning his head non-stop, but at least I could follow him with it.
Before:

After:
I think he's so handsome and it definitely makes him look older. It also shows off his extreme "cowlick." (i checked the spelling..so weird!)

Week 3

2011-06-02T17:54:00.000-07:00

Monday: got back from Vegas
Tuesday: my 26th birthday which was spent trying to recover from the drive home and lack of sleep all weekend. Kids were cranky..not one of the best birthdays, but we'll celebrate this weekend when Chris is here. Addy asking to go to Vegas to swim with Daddy all day.
Wednesday: Beautiful weather, playing outside, shopping at Recessionista for jewelery:)
Thursday: Nasty weather, storytime at the library which the kids didn't like, lots of playing with Grandpa, getting ready for Chris to drive through the night after work to get here early early Friday morning.

Weekend in Vegas

2011-06-02T17:18:00.000-07:00

Where do I start....our weekend wasn't long enough. It was so great to see Chris, and see Addy and Mason's faces when they saw him...but it was SO hard to leave and come back to our life without him. I'm extremely grateful to Chris's parents for inviting us to come with them and being patient on the long drive with our kids. I don't know why, but our kids are the worst at sleeping away from home. It makes vacationing so hard, because they never sleep through the night and naps are a nightmare when they're not at home in their beds. We got there around 3 on Friday, saw Chris's place, and then checked into hotel which was sooo nice! The hotel has a great buffet which we ate at the whole weekend. That night Chris took Addy to the pool and I stayed in to put Mason to bed. Saturday we took the kids to the AdventureDome at the Circus Circus. It was a lot of fun and Addy had a blast on the 4D Dora ride, and the Carousel. She went on the boat ride that goes back and forth, but it terrified her and she just curled up next to Chris and kept asking him to turn it off. Sunday, we went to church..came back for an attempt at naps..picked my Mom up at the airport, had dinner and relaxed the rest of the night in the hotel room. Monday morning, we ate breakfast and then had to say our goodbyes. The trip home was a Nightmare! Mason was sick and threw up 4 times. We hit bad traffic in Utah and our trip ended up being 2 hours longer with all the stops to clean Mason up and going 5 mph in Utah. I was happy to be home to get the kids back on schedule and get caught up on sleep, but I am so ready for this separation to be over. Anyway, here's some pics from our weekend.

Family pic after church

So happy to be with Daddy again

pool view from our hotel room

Right after we got there on Friday..she was ready to relax!

Oh how I miss Vegas weather and hate being back here in low 60's, wind and rain.

Las Vegas update and some kind words

2011-05-28T21:48:00.001-07:00

Mindy said that it would be nice for me to post an update on the internship. Things are going well so far here. I am enjoying the warm weather and it hasn't gotten too hot yet. I love that the sun shines most of the time. My classmate and I are living with a guy that we met playing basketball named Grant. He is a single guy that owns a home and wanted to rent out two of his rooms. I am very comfortable there and Grant is a nice guy. I work monday-thursday from 7-5:30 so we have to leave around 5:30 am to meet our carpool by 6:00 and be out to the site by 7:00. We usually get home around 6:45 pm, so it makes for some long days. I am learning a lot and getting more confident each day. It has been an adjustment since we aren't that busy. I'm used to retail where you are always on the go and staying active. This job seems like there will be lots of routines and lots of downtime where we are just sitting in the office reading procedures, etc. I just have to keep my mind busy with things and try not to get overwhelmed with all of the new information. The site is very cool. It is way out in the mountainous desert land 50 miles from the northwest part of Las Vegas. The site is roughly 1,400 square miles which is about the size of Rhode Island. One person said to me, "yah but Rhode Island is one of the smallest states." All I could think is yah but it's still a lot of land. We spend a lot of time in vehicles going to and from the different areas and so I end up getting carsick quite often. When I'm actually doing the routines and working with the different radiation detectors, I am really enjoying it. It will just take time to adjust to how slow everything is.

I am doing pretty well all things considered. I can definitely see that the Lord has guided this whole process. Everything from getting this intership to meeting Grant and feeling inspired to talk to him has been the hand of the Lord working in our lives. I'm starting to learn how to trust Him more. I am at peace with this process and I know that He is preparing a path for us and a place for us to land. I am so thankful for the Lord. He is ever mindful.

Now I would like to say a few words about being away from my family. It is like I am missing part of myself when I am away. I cannot feel whole without them and it's difficult. I think of them all day and I can't wait to get home and get on Skype just to hear their voices and to make them laugh. I know that this sacrifice will be worth it in the end. I am so blessed to have such an amazing wife. She is amazing! She is such a great mother and wife. I know that having three children so quickly into our marriage has been difficult but she has met the challenge and exceeded all expectations. I am so lucky to have this angel as my wife. It won't be long before we are back together again and I will be able to be a better provider. Until then we will be doing everything we can to see each other as much as finances and time permit. -Chris

Day 12

2011-05-25T18:43:00.000-07:00

These pictures are in reversed order...but we started out the day with going to the greenbelt to feed the ducks with my friend Hayley, and a couple of her kids. For some reason, Addy was freaking out the whole time thinking the geese were always coming after her. Hayley's boy, Nicholas caught a baby duck 3 times I think. Sydney was so cute playing with Mason..who just chilled in his stroller. Afterwards, we went to the mall so I could find some maternity shorts/capris for Vegas this weekend. The kids were great and then Addy took off running for these toys. We finally had a break from the rain today and we've loved being outside again. Mason hasn't been feeling very well..he's got his bottom and top canines breaking through as well as his bottom molars. Poor boy..but he's still been so sweet and happy most of the time.

toys at the mall

caught one!

I had no idea we've had enough rain to start flooding the river!

There were so many babies!! They're so adorable!

Sydney giving Mason a hug

Sydney and Addy

Isn't she so cool with her pink glasses and purple dress! :) She's yelling at the geese.

Day 10 & 11

2011-05-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

Monday:
*power struggles all morning long with a tired Addison, till finally she layed down at 10:30am. (yeah, she was tired)
*a very happy, well rested Mason was super cute
*trip to Verizon and Wal Mart for a phone charger and things for Vegas
*nap, dinner, bath and bedtime
*rain=cooped up inside

Tuesday:
*restless night
*a skunk sprayed outside during the night..woke me up at 2am- nasty!
*rained all night and day
*Mason threw up in his bed during the night and I had no idea, until I got him out of bed and there it was. I felt so bad!
*kids came to my Dr appointment this afternoon. When Addy heard the heartbeat she said,"McKinley's coming out!!" ( I wish )
*Kids played really cute together today, despide being cooped up.
*can't wait for Vegas weather this weekend!

Wish I has something to post on Chris, but he's been super busy and we haven't had much time to talk yesterday or today so far.

It's still raining???

Day 9

2011-05-23T19:02:00.000-07:00

We had Stake Conference...a 2 hr Sacrament with little ones. I wish I knew from the start that they had a nursery set up so you could go let them run wild and try to catch a few words on the tv they had playing the Conference. I found out for the last 1/2 hour. My mom spoke..she did amazing, and I'm so glad it wasn't me:) My parents left right after for Arkansas. My brother Jake and his wife Alyssa had their second..a baby girl this past week. So my Dad got a run to Georgia and will drop my Mom off today to help out for the week. That night we had the Rose monthly birthday party. There were 4 neice/nephew birthdays and mine on the 31st. The Rose get-togethers are always a blast, and I'm so lucky to be a part of such an awesome family.

Preston getting ready to blow out his candles

group shot..I look so cool!! I had Addy blow out my candles since she kept whining about it needing to be her birthday.

Addy playing with the boys in the big blow up toy.

Believe

2011-05-22T15:40:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard a song a million times, and then one time you're listening to it and just hits you like a ton of bricks? Well, this happened to me on Saturday. It was a song by Hilary Weeks called "Who You Are." Obviously with all the changes lately, I've been an emotional roller coaster - but one of the struggles has been my role as a mother. I can't imagine how Army wives, single moms etc., do this everyday for so long. I'm so happy we made it through our first week..but at the same time it felt like forever and I feel so deflated when I think of how much longer we have to go. I'm more than excited to get to see Chris this weekend and then have him up the next weekend..but in the back of my mind I'm thinking of the 4 weeks that we'll be apart after his visit, with the next visit being when we have the baby the first week of July. And then another 4 weeks after that until we're done with this the first week of August. So with that on my mind and struggling to stay strong..this song was just what I needed to hear. I KNOW without a doubt that anything is possible when you're doing what is right and are praying for the strength of our Heavenly Father to be with you. It doesn't mean that he'll take it away or that you won't feel pain. BUT, you feel an inner strength, you make it through, and it makes you stronger.

Who You Are
I know you wonder
if you'll ever have a day
when the kids stay calm,
the laundry's done,
and the dishes are put away.
And sometimes you feel like
your days are spent and gone
and the question running through your mind
is what have I gotten done?
and when you finally have a moment to slow down
at the end of you day
I know Father would say

Believe in what you're doing
Believe in who you are
Hold tight to the truth
that you're a daughter of God
Believe in who you're becoming
Believe in who you are

It may seem simple -
all the little things you do
But the lives you touch
matter so much
And there's no one else like you.
And Father needs you
to stand tall and faithful
to be all you can be ,
Oh, if you could see what he sees.

Chorus

When it's hard to believe in yourself
and you feel like you're beginning to doubt
Remember
He believes in what you're doing
He believes in who you are
Don't lose sight of the truth
that you're a daughter of God
That he believes in who you're becoming
He believes in who you are.

Day 8

2011-05-22T14:48:00.001-07:00

Today was a long day. Not in a bad way, we just did a lot so they didn't get normal naps or a normal bedtime. We went to the Farmer's Market, Library..a couple other stops. Then came home and Mason got a nap, Addy got to play with Grandpa on the trampoline and then she took a short nap. Which seems to be her thing this past week. After naps, there was more playing outside and then Chris's parents watched the kids at 7 so I could go to the Adult Session of Stake Conference. I knew it would be hard since that's Mason's bedtime and Addy's is at 8...but I really needed a spiritual uplift. I don't have my notes with me, but I'll come back later and highlight the things that I needed to hear.

They LOVE Batty our cat. Chris got him when we were dating and living in Utah. Luckily since we've been living in Idaho, my parents have let him stay out here.

Trampoline time with Grandpa! Addy loves to take breaks during jumping and have naptime..it lasts 3 seconds and she says..wake up the sun is up!!

Day 7

2011-05-20T17:57:00.000-07:00

Woo- Hoo..we made it a week!! I would LOVE to be done, but at least I know now that we've made it a week, and we'll just keep making it one week at a time. I love seeing their faces when they Chris on skype, it's so priceless. I LOVE seeing him as well..it breaks my heart a little, but at the same time it takes me back to dating years and I fall in love with him all over again.

Today was a little better...their sleep schedules are still off, but I know to give that time. We went and had lunch and played at Arctic Circle, went to Wal-Mart for a rx for Mason's eczema(for some reason it's flaring up on his back), they threw fits at naptime and then we just played here at home the rest of the night. Grandpa came home from his trip, so they loved getting some time in with him. I'm anxious for the weather to be warm on a daily basis..so we can play outside all day, have Addy help with the garden, let them jump all their energy out on the tramp..etc. That's part of why I'm so excited to possibly move to Vegas..our family is so much happier when the sun is out and we can be outside. Being cooped up all day just drives us all crazy.

I'm getting to that point in pregnancy when the little things, like picking up toys, and carrying Mason up the stairs is making me exhausted and uncomfortable. I'm 34 weeks, so the contractions are coming more, I'm peeing every hour, and this baby girl loves to play all night..all that fun stuff!! This pregnancy has been a night and day difference thanks to Zofran - I now know what it's like to have a "normal" pregnancy and be able to live a normal life for 9 months. It's starting to feel a little more real and the fear of how I'm going to handle 3 kids 3 and under is setting in. There's so many days when I feel like I fail with 2..and I think; what am I going to do with another baby crying or if I'm feeding the baby and Addy and Mason are pulling each other's hair out?!? But, one thing I have learned is the blessings that come from the little things that I personally forget to do most days. Before kids, my blessings that came from personal prayer and scripture study were so different. Now, when I remember to start my day out with these things..I have patience, empathy, and a calmness inside. I focus more on what life must be like through their eyes and I react so different in situations. Why I don't do this each day, I don't know...but I'm trying to make them habits again.
But anyway..here's some pics from today.

they were racing around the house:)

Playing at Arctic

more ice-cream please

Day 6

2011-05-19T18:16:00.000-07:00

Addy did a little better last night. She only got up once..but Mason woke up bawling at 5, he's getting his bottom canines and molars in right now. I thought Addy would be in a little better mood today, but no. We went to our friend Holly's house so the kids could play and she was still moody over there. I know it's a mixture of all the changes going on, missing her Daddy and not getting good sleep, but I'll be so grateful when she finally adjusts to it all. We've almost hit our first week mark! Chris is loving the Site so far. The entire Site is the same size as Rhode Island..it's enormous! The people he's met so far have been awesome and the job opportunity is still looking great. They met a guy at church ball on Monday that is single and owns a house. He's been trying to rent out 2 spare rooms at his place, and Chris and Brandon were going to be looking for a different hotel to stay at since this place hasn't been good. So they went and looked at it last night and agreed that it would be a great fit. The way things have fallen into place have been such a blessing. They save money this way, get their own rooms, it's in a gated community so they have pools, tennis courts etc. They also met a couple people at work that car-pool to the site each day and they've also started riding with them instead of taking the hour long bus ride..maybe longer. So we've been super happy and excited with how things are working out for him down there. The best news is that Chris's parents are taking the kids and I down there with them next weekend. It's Memorial Day weekend and we all miss him and want to go have fun in Vegas! I can't wait!

A couple things that Mason has started doing the past week:
*walking only holding onto one of our hands. His balance is getting so much better and he's definitely getting closer.
*he has a new wave. He's usually been just holding his arm up like he's saluting you..but a couple days ago he started turning his wrist and opening and closing his hand and he'll say buh-bye while he does it. SOOO CUTE!
*when Addy comes in the room, he says her name (Ahheee)....she LOVES it!

Day 5

2011-05-18T18:43:00.000-07:00

I really have no desire to post anything for today, but I've made a goal and I plan on sticking to it! The day started way too early with way too little sleep. I had to start breaking a bad habit that the kids use to sleep last night and Mason was fine..but Addy got out of bed 4 times and was up for the day at 6. Not okay. I tried putting them down for naps at 10 and Mason went right to sleep..Addy took an hour. Not okay. I know that patience is not my strong suit, and I sadly had little today. So after they woke up we had lunch, went into town for the sake of just getting out of the house. It was time for afternoon nap when we got back and they were both having a fit..took another hour for Mason to get to sleep and Addy never did. So I put her on the couch to watch a movie to at least get some sort of rest. Then we jumped on the tramp, read books, colored pictures, had dinner, had a bath and now I'm just so ready for this day to be over and praying that they sleep good tonight. While I was getting Addy dressed after he bath, poor Mason hit his face on the tile and got a bloody nose and upper lip. So sad, but being the tough, energetic boy he is; was wanting to play again in about 5 minutes. I understand that all the whining the past few days is due to lack of sleep and frustration over all the changes in their lives right now...but I also feel the same way. This is just hard, on all of us. And my sweet little kids don't get the luxury of us adults of being able to talk it out to someone. I love them so much, and at the end of the day..even when they've driven me crazy...their cuddles, smiles and kisses are also the thing that makes it all worth it. I haven't talked to Chris yet today, but I'm hoping his first day at the Site went great. I love him more than
anything and miss him like crazy. I am so lucky to be his wife and so grateful for all he does for us.

"don't take my picture!"

Cleaning his plate:)

Random pics

2011-05-18T07:33:00.001-07:00

Before Chris left, his Young Men's group had a goodbye party for him, his parents took us out for dinner, we fed ducks at the Greenbelt..and lots of playing outside. I found some other random pics I hadn't posted yet..so that's what this post is:)

Chris and his parents

Chris and some of his Young Men and other leaders

Mason emptying the drawers..completely!

Cute Addy in the car

My mom had some blankets drying outside on the line, and the wind was blowing which Addy thought made a fun game to run into them.

CHEESE!

This goose ate right out of her hand

Day 4

2011-05-17T17:18:00.001-07:00

We had a warmer day today, so before dinner the kids had lots of outside playing time. They are truly the best of friends. They light up whenever they see each other. Sure, Mason torments her..and vise versa...but they love each other so much. Addy came and cuddled with me in bed and watched Dora while Mason took his morning nap. After he woke up, we had a picnic for lunch out on the trampoline. Then we went into the library to get her some more Dora books. She loves to push Mason in the stroller whenever we're in town. Then we came back home, they both went down for a nap and after that Addy had a Dentist appointment. If I knew it was going to be a "big kid" visit, I would have brought my camera. It was sooo cute to see her getting x-rays and laying on the big table. She looked so little on it! She did great and picked out a bracelet as a prize..and the first words out of her mouth were, let's go show Daddy! I don't want to sound like I whine on here everyday, but it is our journal..so I will say that, for me, it definitely doesn't get any easier by the day. But, I am so grateful for this time in our lives and I know that we've been guided down this path. Today was Chris's last day of orientation and tomorrow will be their first day at the Nuclear Test Site. I'm excited to hear how it goes and what he'll be doing.

I've tried twice to post an adorable video of Addy and Mason playing on the toy car, saying Hi over and over to each other, but it's not downloading. Hopefully tomorrow it will work.

Day 3

2011-05-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

I'll have to post the picture of the day later, since I took it on my parent's camera and we don't have the converter to plug it into the computer right now.

I talked to Chris on his lunch break and he asked if Addy had been asking for him. She hadn't yet today, but sure enough- after her nap she's been saying, "I want to jump with Daddy on the tramp"..over and over. I try to explain what's going on again..and she just cries and says.."but I want to play with him Now!" It absolutely breaks my heart. As if it's not hard enough on me having him away..knowing the kids are missing their Daddy just makes it harder. She's so sweet though..after we talk about it, she always says.."it'll be okay Mommy." Chris and I talked again last night about the possibility of having us come down until I have to be back to have the baby. That was the situation we were trying to find a way to make work before they went down...but the costs to make that work just get higher and higher and I worry it would just be harder on the kids to have one more move in these 3 months.

The weather was a little cooler today, so we didn't play outside. Mason followed Addy everywhere inside..they played with the toy kitchens, barbies, cars and they took an hour and a half to fall asleep with their nap. After nap, we went into town and got slushes at Sonic and went shopping for some needed clothes for new baby and a few things for Addy and Mason. They sang to their cd's in the car..and it's so cute hearing Mason clap when B.I.N.G.O comes on. Right now, Addy is sitting under the highchair moving with it while Mason walks behind pushing it. It's in these moments when I sit and watch them laughing together that the spirit assures me that we'll make it through. One day at a time, focus on what matters and it's always one day closer to the days that we'll get to be all together again.

Day 2

2011-05-15T18:37:00.001-07:00

It was really weird getting ready for church, loading the kids up and heading to church without Chris today. I had to tell myself many times in the car and at church to pull it together..there's a lot more of these days ahead. But, we made it through Sacrament..and by that time Addy was having meltdowns due to lack of sleep and wanting to go home and go to her own nursery. She's had so many changes lately and I think it's starting to catch up with her. So we went home and her and Mason went right to sleep. Luckily, Chris was able to finally get their internet working in their hotel room today. So we got to Skype with him this evening. Once again, when his face popped up I had to hold back the tears. It's great being able to talk to him everyday, but even better to Skype and have the kids get excited to see him. It took me back to our dating years, I kept thinking..man, he looks so good!! :) He'll start Orientation tomorrow and that will take 2 days, and then Wednesday and Thursday they should be starting work at the Nuclear site. I'm excited for him to start work and find out what the job is really like and get one day closer to getting a job.

As promised, I have pictures of the kids playing today. I love these 2 so much..it's so fun to watch them play together.

He uses everything that will move as a walker

He sits here many times during the day wanting to go out and play. I wish I could just let him out, but he'd crawl right off the deck.

Trampoline time w/Daddy!

2011-05-15T15:18:00.001-07:00

So, after we got moved out of our apartment and into my parent's house for the summer...Chris took the last couple weeks off of work to get all the time in with us before he left for Vegas. The kids were in heaven. He played with them all day, everyday. I was in heaven as well - I love being with him every second I can.
My mom bought a trampoline a few days after we moved in...Addy and Mason have lived on it everyday. It was a pain to set up, but so worth it.

Cutest Daddy ever!!

Day 1

2011-05-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

Today, Chris left. I don't know if there's really a way to express all the emotions I've felt the past couple weeks and especially today. I don't know how Army families do it. I'm already ready for this to be over..but we still have 3 months to go. Some couples do good apart...for us, I miss him every second he's away. He's my best friend, my favorite person on earth..he's the half of me that makes me a better person and can always make me smile, laugh and make everything okay. He's the best father I have ever seen. The past couple weeks he hasn't had work, and has spent every second he can with Addison and Mason. He is such an amazing father..so patient, fun, understanding and that might be what is so hard with him leaving..is knowing it tears him apart to be away from his children. They love their Daddy so much - no one can get Mason to smile and laugh like Chris can. And Addy has him wrapped around her little finger. I know that this journey is just part of a much bigger blessing that awaits us. Chris gave the kids and I blessings last night, and I have definitely felt the strength of the spirit with me today. It doesn't help to have all the extra pregnancy emotions right now, so I know I'm receiving extra help to get me through. I'm so grateful for Chris being willing to leave and go do this internship..we had no other options with me being due in just under 2 months, so we couldn't go with him. I'm so proud of how hard he worked in school and I know he's going to do so great. I can't wait to get that call from him saying he's been offered the job and we can start this next step in our lives. I've made a goal to make a daily update for him..so this is really going to turn into my diary. I know I'm still backed up and need to update pics from the past month, but for now I'm just doing today.

Day 1:We had gorgeous weather for about the 4th day straight again..YAY!! So we had trampoline time, riding in the wagon, and car, dress ups with Lily, trip to the library, painting nails and Mason getting sprayed by the sprinklers:)

Lily came over to play!

Wagon ride

Mason's face is funny..he was half excited, half scared

Wondering what just hit him...

I didn't say it was okay for a sprinkler to get me wet!!

It's all good..I'll clap now!! Does it seriously get any cuter!?? :)

I think he preferred to push it, rather than ride in it.

Look at my pretty nails! She would wear this leotard everyday if I let her.

Party time!

2011-04-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

I can't say enough about Mason..he has always been so laid back and chill. He's got the biggest dimples and cutest smile and laugh, which he's always more than willing to give you. He lights up your day when you see him. He is now non-stop from the moment he wakes up till he crashes for a nap. He is so close to walking..he just needs to get his balance. He walks along the walls/furniture and uses anything that moves as a walker. He LOVES his big sister, and chases her everywhere.

A few of his favorites:
*bathtime
*balls
*trampoline
*food, food, food
*cuddles
*anything with soft fabric..since he was born he burrows in soft blankets and will hold them up against his cheek.
* being outside

a few of his words:
mama
dada
bye-bye
ball (ba ba)
Addy (ahhee)
num (when he's eating)
coo-coo and tick-tock (that's what Chris says when he swings him)
hi
kitty (kee kee)

stats:
25lbs (85%)
30.5 in (85%)

We love you so much Mason, and are so grateful to be your parents!!

His birthday party was also combined as the Rose Easter party. We had an easter egg hunt, pinata and yummy food.

Addy didn't bother waiting to eat her Easter candy:) She found her eggs then went and sat down and ate them.

The Elmo cake was Mason's and the other one was for the rest of the kids to eat. Thanks to my fabulous friend Holly for helping decorate Elmo - it turned out perfect!!

waiting for his cake

Addy sat there and dipped her finger in the entire time.

presents!!

Mason is 1!!

2011-04-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

We had no doubt that Mason would dive in when he saw his cake...this is the last thing we expected.....

This was more like it.... ( sorry about the kids walking in front and crooked camera:) )

April Happenings

2011-04-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

April has been full of stress, packing, decisions and finals. We're moved out of the apt and into my parent's house for the next 3 months. We're still cleaning the apt and have our final walk through on Friday. I can't wait to have that done with. We've all had colds the past week, and Chris has had finals all week..so having the cleaning and still moving stuff out has just been the last straw for our stress levels. His last final was today, and we're so happy to have that over with. I have to brag that he aced them all!!! The kids have been so patient..definitely annoyed with all that's been going on - and they're definitely confused as to why they're staying at Gma/Gpa's everynight...so I can't wait to have this week over and be able to spend more time with them and help ease the transition. We didn't do too much for Easter..the Saturday before was Mason's birthday..so we combined it with the Rose Easter party. Here's some random pics from the month..I'll do a separate post for Mason's party.

can't get enought of this boy..he LOVES his highchair, simply because he knows it means food.

Because we just 'love' this beautiful, warm, non-windy Spring weather...we wanted to be outside in it, but because it's so nasty here..we built a fort, with bean bags, pillows, and a space heater in the corner:) Mason still braved the cold wind though.

Dying Easter eggs..

Bittersweet

2011-04-14T06:42:00.000-07:00

So we got the final details on Chris's internship. They're actually hiring them on as summer help..so it's going to be 10-12 weeks instead of 8. They have a lot of projects this summer, which is awesome...I just wish they would do the 8 week internship and then hire them on, so we can all move down with him. I've really been hoping the kids and I could go down for May, and then fly back in June for the last few weeks before the baby's arrival. But, finding furnished, short term housing that's under 1,000 and not creepy is hard to find. So, Chris and his friend from class will be going down together and living together to split the costs. It'll be Mon-Thur, 7-5. Add probably 45min-1 hr bus ride each way..it'll make for long days, but they're excited to have the 4 day work week. We were super excited when we heard that, because then they could fly home Thurs nights..have the weekend here and fly back on Sun nights with the cheap Allegiant flights. No...they only do flights Fri and Mon for the next few months. I wanted to cry by this point when I knew I couldn't go down, that they've added another month onto this, and that he wouldn't be able to fly home often. They'll have to drive now..probably once a month. I know this is a HUGE blessing for us..the more work = more money we really need and more experience for Chris. I'm blessed to be able to stay at my parent's house....they've told Chris it's just fine for him to fly home for the baby and to take all the time he needs...and I keep telling myself 3 months will fly by. I know I'm whining, but I'm so sad for all the things Chris will miss with the kids. For Mason, these few months are huge for all the things they start saying and doing...plus I'm just sad to be away from him that long. We've never been apart for more than a few days. BUT, we are truly SO SO blessed and the possible job opportunity at the end of this is huge. This will be hard, but so worth it - so all I can do is count our blessings and think positive!:)

now onto more fun packing and planning Mason's birthday party which is the 23rd:)
...
I've got lots of pictures of the kids to post, but I've already packed the memory card converter..so no pics for a few weeks.

videos!

2011-04-04T08:07:00.000-07:00

I'm late posting these videos, but better late than never, right? Mason was such a chill baby, just happy to be held and watch everyone around him. That's how he was until around 6 months. He started army crawling and was a master at it! We thought he would crawl normal so quickly after that, but he was content with his army crawl. He started actually crawling on hands and knees the end of February. He started cruising on furniture soon after that and now wants to walk so badly. He's not happy unless he's walking with his walker or making you hold his hands while he walks around the house. He loves being able to follow us and Addy all around the house crawling behind. It's just a matter of time till he gets his balance and then he'll be a pro walker. Here's a couple of videos when he first got the hang of how to push his walker. The second one is Chris tickling his back and belly..his laugh is so adorable.

Our one day of Spring...

2011-04-04T06:59:00.000-07:00

Spring is my favorite season...sadly we haven't had Spring here in Idaho the past few years. It's rainy, snowy, cold and windy. The warm days are ruined by blasting winds. We had a warm day last week, it was super windy, but we went out anyway. There's an Elementary School by us..so we headed over to get the kids out.

Addy took a break to play in the bark with Mason

still loves swings, and now uses the big ones. She calls them the tickle swings, because her tummy "tickles" when she uses them:) Sadly, we thought Mason would love them like Addy..but he HATES the swings! Even when I held him on my lap and tried them, he hated it. So weird!

Chris ran the few miles over to the playground from our house..hence the workout clothes;)

Offering me some bark....

"no?, okay I'll eat it then:)...I've told you - everything goes in this kid's mouth.

Vegas!

2011-04-01T11:40:00.001-07:00

We finally got our offer finalized. It is such a huge weight off our shoulders to have a date to look forward to, and be able to move on and start packing. Now if only we could have that job offer after the internship sealed, life would be almost perfect:) The Nevada Nuclear Test Site got Chris's resume and notified the teacher after Spring Break to say they'll have him start May 9th, or May 16th and it will be at least 8 weeks. They have a lot work right now, but the teacher told them that Chris and his friend Brandon both have families..so doing more than 8 weeks for the internship might be hard. He said knowing that they have the work though makes it an even greater chance of being hired on when the 8 weeks is over. We looked at their website, and they are hiring..so I'm just going to be optimistic and a positive thinker and plan on getting hired on and just keep looking for homes ;) We haven't decided yet about the kids and I going for the internship. 8 weeks isn't forever, but it is a long time to be away. If I wasn't so close to due date it would be a no brainer and the kids and I would be down there in a heart beat. I've found plenty of furnished places down there for this sort of thing, and the kids and I would have so much fun in the sun. But figuring out flights to come back for Dr appt's and then having to come back anyway to have the baby before the internship is over is tricky. Anyway, we are SOOO excited. Thinking about all the fun stuff down there to go see and do makes me want to leave tomorrow. We're so blessed and grateful for this opportunity, and can't wait to get settled and be done with the school life, and moving constantly.

Food + Mason = Love

2011-03-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

This boy has serious problems when it comes to shoveling in his food. It's a handful of food one after another...and everything in his world stops when he sees food coming his way. His eating techniques are sure going to make for a fun 1st birthday when he gets to attack his cake. I still can't believe that's coming up in just a few weeks.

Internship

2011-03-24T08:46:00.000-07:00

So the past couple months has been stressful for us. Most of the students in Chris's class have already found out where they were going for their internship and we just weren't getting what we wanted! We really wanted to stay in Utah or Idaho and both of these places didn't pick us. We couldn't figure out what was going on, because Chris has done amazing in the class and has excellent grades...better than those that were getting picked. We knew we needed to have faith, and trust that the Lord has something in mind and we needed to be patient. But it was down to 4 people left and time is running out..so it was getting hard to wait. We'd heard that the teacher was wanting to contact a Nuclear Plant in Vegas, because there aren't any colleges there that have this major..so they don't have any obligations to be loyal to that school and take interns. He had asked Chris if he'd be interested in going there, because when they start a new relationship with a school, they like to send their best there to give EITC a good reputation. I was so excited when I heard the prospect of Vegas. WARM WEATHER, cheap flights back home, everything imaginable to go do, close to the CA beaches...etc. Well, we didn't hear anything for awhile...until last Thursday. He said they had agreed to take 2 interns, so the teacher was recommending Chris and this other guy in class who's good friends with Chris. Best part of this news: some internships don't pay anything. There's some that do, and Vegas is paying double what all those pay. The teacher had never heard of a place paying that for an internship. Plus, there's a huge advantage to get hired on there after the internship. Moral of the story...The Lord knows us, he knows our needs and knows the big picture. We have scraped and scraped for years to get to this point and our school loans and grants have been gone for a few months. We needed this. Not only did we need a payed internship, and a good chance of staying on there.... the Lord needs us in Vegas. Of course we've always wanted to stay by family, so this is bittersweet..but we're so excited for this new adventure. We've always said once school is over, we'll go where we're supposed to go. When you put your lives in the Lord's hands you can't go wrong. We don't know the dates yet of when the internship is, but at this point we're guessing it's similar to everywhere else. Starting in May, and about 6-8 weeks...but it could be totally different. We'll decide once we know if the kids and I will go down or not. Baby #3 is coming beginning of July, so there's a good chance I'll be moving out of the apt and into my parent's house in May while Chris goes down to Vegas. Anyway...HOORAY for no more waiting and no more nasty cold windy weather!

Oregon

2011-03-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

In February we went over to Oregon to be there for my nephew, Landon's baptism. I was nervous about the 12 hour drive with the 2 kids, but they did great. I left with them early on a Wednesday morning with my parents, and then Chris came with my brother Darik and his family early Friday morning. It was a blast being over there and watching the cousins get to know each other. We only get to see Travis and his family maybe once a year, and I soooo wish we lived closer to them! Addy got along great with their kids and misses them. While we were there it snowed, and since Oregon never gets snow..they canceled school once of the days because of the whole 1.5 inches they got that melted in an a couple hours!! On Saturday, Carrie was able to get all the girls tickets to their Children's Museum..and got the boys tickets to go play laser tag. By that time, Addy and Mason were both feeling sick..and had had fevers off and on and ended up throwing up a little bit later that day. Needless to say, they were exhausted and ready for bed at the museum. When we got home on Sunday, I took Mason straight to the Dr, because I was guessing he had another ear infection which he did. Poor boy had a miserable 12 hr drive home. Anyway, we had a blast and are so grateful for Travis and Carrie for all they did for us while we were there. They had our name for Christmas so were lucky enough to open our presents while we were there. Thanks for an awesome few days, and we're so happy we were able to be there for Landon's baptism. I sadly didn't get any pictures of it..but it was a great night!

Children's Museum
they had this water room with all these different machines that got you wet

Curious George exhibit

2 and under room...this was a water bed type thing

fish

a shopping room where they had carts to go get food and then they could scan it and check out.

possibly Addy and Halle's favorite toy..the things where you put a penny in and it spins round and round.

the "snow day!"

Color time!

Addy and Halle..best buds!

Rose Feb Birthday Party

2011-03-07T09:25:00.000-08:00

On President's Day we went to the Aquatic Center in Blackfoot to celebrate all the birthdays in February from the Rose families. It was a lot of fun, and reminded me that we need to take our kids to the pool more often.

Addy LOVED the slide!

Naptime Playtime

2011-03-04T09:01:00.000-08:00

Last month, we put the kids down together after church. I heard some giggling about 20 minutes into their nap...but thought nothing of it. They like to talk and play before falling asleep. Well..when I got them up after their nap..this is what I found on Mason's face and a brown permanent marker on Addy's bed. Needless to say I was mad when I saw that it was a permanent marker - especially since Mason has eczema so we can't use anything strong on his face. Lucky for us, we gave him a bath and his soap took it right off. There were some spots on his scalp that took a little longer, but his face was clear the next day! I love these two so much, and love that they can't go to sleep without each other. Addy always sings songs and says prayers to him before bedtime, and Mason will pull the bumper down and look and call for her when he's not falling asleep. I'm sure this little incident will happen again..but at least we know it's not permanent:)

Blogging Rut

2011-03-04T08:39:00.000-08:00

Wow...seriously, I've never had such a hard time blogging before. But this pregnancy just gives me absolutely no desire to sit at the computer except to spend 5 minutes checking everything. I'm 22 weeks and I feel like I'm 30 weeks, or more like I feel that's how I look. I was still wearing all my pre-prego clothes at this point with Mason, and I've had to bust out all the maternity clothes. Not cool! People keep saying that's how it gets the more you have, and I did get pregnant just 5 months after having Mason, so my body wasn't exactly back to normal yet. But still, you look at other hot skinny mamas that have had 3+ and it's not the case with them...and you look in the mirror and change your clothes 5 times trying to find something that looks good because some clothes are too tight and others are still a tent. Anyway! All this is worth it because that sweet little baby is showing personality and kicking like crazy! At our ultrasound she gave the tech a run for her money, moving everywhere and never showing her face. But she did show us that we're having another sweet baby GIRL!!! We're so excited and Addy was right all along:) We are truly so blessed and are so grateful for our children.

Anyway, I'm going to try and update - not much has been going on. Still waiting to find out where we'll be interning. 12 in the class have found out and there's still 6 waiting. It makes absolutely NO sense at all how they're picking who they want. They haven't come to interview, they're not even picking who's pulling the best grades..which Chris is!! It's all off the resume. I just feel like it'd make more sense to call the teacher and find out how they're doing in the class and go from that. There's still 2 spots left at the INL, the teacher is trying to get some on at a site just past Vegas, and Bartlett has their resumes as well... which is nerve-wracking because they have sites all over the country.

We had the Rose birthday party for Feb birthdays at the aquatic center in Blackfoot. We had a trip to Oregon for my nephew Landon's baptism. And lots of waiting out this cold weather to leave:) Pictures coming....

Recent Pictures

2011-01-27T09:57:00.000-08:00

Her new doll, "Lisa"...she was trying to carry her around and kept saying.."She's heavy Mommy"

Cheese!

Update

2011-01-27T09:25:00.000-08:00

This year is going to be so exciting and crazy... so many changes coming for our little family!

In April, Chris will finish school, we'll have to move for him to start his internship (no idea where yet), and Mason turns 1. This boy is an angel. He's so laid back, happy and his smiles and giggles just melt us. He has his 2 bottom and top teeth, has mastered is own kind of crawling, and loves to stand up. He's refused to eat baby food for the past couple months, ever since he got a taste of real food. He takes 2, 2 hr naps...and goes to bed at 7..wakes up around 5:30-6 for a bottle and goes back to sleep till 8-8:30. He loves playing peek-a-boo..especially with Addy, baths, eating and has an insane obsession with his and Addy's minky blankets. We're so grateful for Mason and the sweet spirit he has brought into our home.

I'll turn 26 in May

June - Addison turns 3!!!!????? I can't believe it. This girl keeps us on our toes everyday. She's feisty, sweet, smart and funny. She's the best big sister to Mason, always making him laugh. She loves learning, we work on pre-school activities because she just loves it so much. She knows her ABC's and all around town when she sees signs, she'll read the letters to us. She counts to 20, knows her shapes and colors, and is trying to write her letters now. I love to hear her reading books to Mason that she has memorized, and singing him songs at bedtime. She's also at a very sassy/stubborn 2.5 yr old stage..trying to talk back when I tell her to do something. It drives me crazy, and being patient is hard sometimes, but I know it's a phase and I'm grateful she's so stubborn, because she'll need it when she's older to stand up for what is right. We love her so much and are so grateful she's our daughter.

July 12 -...due date for our 3rd baby. This baby and Mason will be 15 months apart...no it was not planned. I'm scared to death to have 3 kids, especially ages 3 and under, but I know it will be great when they're older. As much as we may have a plan for our lives and think we're in control of things..we're not. We're here to fulfill our Heavenly Father's plan, and I know He needs his children down here to bring that to pass. I am so grateful beyond words that I'm able to get pregnant and have healthy children. I just pray for strength each day to be the Mother that these sweet spirits need.

August - Chris will finish up his internship and we'll either be staying where he interned for his career..or moving somewhere else. I am so excited to finally be at this point..settled with a career - I just wish we knew where:) The waiting and unknown is so hard for me.

Christmas Day

2011-01-26T10:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas morning, we woke up with the kids around 8..Addy ran out and saw her purple chair and got so excited!! It was so much fun with Addy and Mason this year..even though he wasn't feeling good. Addy loved opening everything and had even more fun helping Grandpa open his presents:) We got spoiled and are so grateful to everyone for their thoughtfulness. After all the excitement, we got cleaned up and went into the Roses. We had some more fun there, then came back out to my parent's so the kids could take naps and have the traditional Christmas dinner. We played more games, then took Mason into Redicare. I love Christmas, and am so sad when it's over. It's so much better as a parent to see the excitement in your kids' eyes.

Grandpa showing Addy the empty cookie plate.

Lincoln Logs!

Addy's new shoes..she didn't take them off for a couple days

She's finally getting courage to pet Abby

cuddles from Uncle Shawn

Addy and Marley got dressed up in all the Halloween costumes, and Addy decided to ride Marley like a horse:)

After everything was over, and we got Mason's medicine..we finally got his trademark smile back:)

Merry Christmas!!

Christmas Eve

2011-01-26T09:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas was so awesome this year. We went to the Rose's around 3 in the afternoon and had a delicious Chinese dinner around 5. We went to see Christmas lights at 6 and then went out to my parent's house. We sang songs around the piano, read the Christmas story and then put the exhausted kids to bed. Chris and I were tired too..but we stayed up and played a game with my parents and then went to bed. Mason had been cranky, feverish, and so tired for a couple days..but I kept putting if off as teething. It got worse and worse, so we ended up taking him to RediCare on Christmas day. I feel like a Horrible mother, because he had a double ear infection and possible strep throat. I could have saved him from a few days of misery by taking him in earlier, but that's just one of those things you learn in hindsight. So you'll notice in all his pictures, he looks so miserable and not his happy normal self.

Granny, Addy, Marley, Grandpa Rose

Sad little Mason

Addy and Preston

Christmas PJ's..Mickey Mouse for Mason, Minnie Mouse for Addy

Reading a Christmas story with Grandma Anderson

12 Days of Christmas

2010-12-30T09:43:00.000-08:00

This post is for the Grandparents. They both did the 12 Days of Christmas for us this year and it was so thoughtful, fun and sweet. I've watched my Mom do it the past couple of years and I know how much work it takes..so we really appreciated them both taking so much time do put it all together. Here's a few pictures of the kids enjoying the gifts.

We used these cookie cutters to make Santa some cookies on Christmas Ever

Mason liked to try and eat all the gifts

There were 4 bears, all different sizes to match each member of our family

This is "Shiny" the elf. When you sprinkle glitter on him at night, he comes alive and does naughty or nice things while you're sleeping:)

Addy's new camera that she takes everywhere and makes you say cheese.

Thanks Again!! We loved it!!

Temple Square

2010-12-29T08:58:00.001-08:00

We went to SLC the second weekend in December with my parents to see the lights at Temple Square. Addy has absolutely loved driving around town pointing out the lights, so I knew we had to take her to see the ones at Temple Square. It was a really quick down and back trip, but so worth it. We got down there around 5:30 on Saturday night, checked into the hotel..ate some dinner, then drove over to Temple Square. Saying it was packed is an understatement. My Dad ended up driving back to the hotel and catching the bus to come back over. We were there about an hour...and didn't even walk around the whole thing. It was so packed it was hard to walk around and we needed to get the kids down to bed. So we walked back to the hotel and Chris, my mom and Addy and I went down to the pool. Mason and my Dad hung out and watched tv. The next morning we got up early and walked down to the Conference Center to see the Tabernacle Choir broadcast they do each Sunday. Chris and I had to watch it in the the theatre since we had the kids, but we were able to go take pictures and show Addy the main room. I'm so happy we went down and grateful to my parents for going with us. I love Temple Square and being able to see the excitement in my kids' eyes when they see everything is priceless.

He was so happy to get out of the car and roll around the hotel floor!

Random December Pics

2010-12-29T08:33:00.001-08:00

reading books together

Addy doing my workout dvd

he loves to chew on toothbrushes

setting up the nativities at Gma & Gpa's

I can't get enough of this sweet, happy boy

Chocolate Houses

2010-12-29T08:12:00.000-08:00

Instead of Gingerbread houses..my mom always does chocolate molds and we make them that way. It's so fun, and everything is edible! :) Addy had lots of fun helping this year.

After we were done..you can still see chocolate around her mouth. One candy for the house, one for her:)

Swingin!!

2010-11-30T09:24:00.000-08:00

We've been a little cooped up lately with the freezing temps outside..this is how these 2 have fun inside:)

Goodbye Fall

2010-11-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

We have had a GORGEOUS fall this year. Beautiful temps..beautiful leaves...I'm so sad to see it gone and look out the window to 55 mph winds with sleet and snow. One of the highlights for Addy this year, was going out to my parent's house to play in the leaves with Ellie (her cousin) and Emmy (my parent's neighbor). She asks for them every time she's out there now.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun..

2010-10-31T10:27:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-30T08:54:00.000-07:00

On Friday, we went to the Pumpkin Patch with Holly and her kids. I've been wanting to go, since last year was such a hit. Sadly, we went on Friday..and no one was there to run the train. We still had fun watching the kids play on the train and go through the corn maze.

Addy and Peter

In order to get her to smile for the camera, I say, "Show me your teeth!"

Daddy's boy

corn maze

Parker, Noah and Addy

Halloween Gingerbread Disaster

2010-10-19T07:56:00.001-07:00

We bought the Halloween Gingerbread kit at Walmart, because it was so cute and we knew Addy would have so much more fun than the Christmas one we got last year. Well, it was fun and it was hard to keep Addy from eating all the candy....but it didn't hold together at all. I gave up trying to keep it all together and just let it fall, then dumped frosting all over and threw the candy on top. Chris and I both don't like Halloween, but this was a fun activity we could do as a family:)

"uh-oh, Mommmy!!" (the roof fell)

The Gingerbread dump

Grandma's Birthday!

2010-10-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

Oct 12, my beautiful mom celebrated her 56th Birthday. I have no idea what I'd do without her..and the thought of possibly having to move in 6 months for Chris's internship just freaks me out right now. We're so spoiled to live close to both of our parents, and they do so much for us - I just really don't want to move right now. Anyway, my Dad was out on a trip on her birthday..so we tried to make it a fun day for her. Before she left work, Addy and I surprised her with balloons...sadly I didn't have my camera. Then we had her come into our place for dinner and cake/ice-cream that evening.

I hope I look this amazing at 56!

Holly and her boys came up to celebrate with us

Happy Birthday!!We love you Mom!!

Can't get enough of these two...

2010-10-18T09:38:00.001-07:00

Big thanks to my best friend Lindy for taking these at my parent's house this past weekend. We wanted some pics of the kids in the leaves while it's still nice out! I LOVE THEM!!

Our brown-eyed beauty....

and blue-eyed cutie..

Telling Mason a secret..

oh those dimples...

eskimo kisses:)

Buddies

2010-10-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

I know some people are going to think we're horrible because Addy has a binky, and she's 2..but yes, we still let her have one to sleep at night. That's the only time she uses it. Our goal was to have it gone before Mason was born, but that didn't happen, and now we barely get any sleep because of Mason..so it's being put off. Anyway, this video is a daily occurrence of these two at bedtime. I love how they make each other laugh.