DAYZ GO BY.....

October, fall, and Halloween

2011-11-08T08:27:00.000-08:00

October, Fall and Halloween three words I LOVE!! This by far is my favorite month, season and holiday! I love it even more now that I live in Oregon, this state is perfect for fall. All the leaves change, the weather is perfect, and its really so beautiful! Plus it stays like this through Nov. We went to the apple orchard, pumpkin patch, fall festival at my work, carved pumpkins and enjoyed this time of year.

Mikaila playing soccer! She's actually quite good if I could get her to go to practice, she only likes to play Games!

this is her soccer buddy Taine, they also go to preschool together (he was also the first boy she ever kissed...naughty little girl)

these two really are the best of buds! they play so well together and are really sweet with eachother

Carving pumpkins as a family, are you wondering what is all over Isaak's face?....marker! it's also on his hands, feet, belly and bum!

The witch and Spider Man are ready to go trick or treating!

first house on the stop. Mikaila ran from house to house while Isaak walked. She got tired of waiting for him so she would get his candy for him and move on to the next house.

this was the first year we carved pumpkins and I think they turned out pretty good! Isaak's is a boy vampire and Mikaila's is a girl vampire.

Long time no post....

2011-10-24T08:14:00.000-07:00

Well, its no surprise, several months have come and went and once again I have failed to blog...what's new. A LOT!!!
Baby #3 is on HIS way!! I'm now 20 weeks and 4 days along. Through the half way mark! This pregnancy has been very different than the other two. Mainly because I didn't puke! Not once! Thank goodness and was only nauseous a few weeks. I'm feeling very lucky. The second difference is because I haven't been sick I've gained weight in the first trimester, which has NEVER happened until now. But I'm dealing with it :) Smells drive me crazy, I eat and eat and eat like crazy (hence the weight gain) but I don't want just anything its MEALS I'm talking meat and potatoes, foot long subs, spaghetti, hearty meals!
Overall I'm doing good, not as tired as I was in the first trimester and enjoying the next few months of the second trimester.
Here are two prego pics, so I don't forget how huge I got along the way of this AMAZING experience. Being a woman is so AWESOME!

15 weeks 2 days

20 weeks 4 days

APRIL OPEN HOUSE

2011-03-31T22:07:00.000-07:00

Ok I've come to the realization that there is just too much I havent blogged about to try and catch up. So instead lets skip ahead and look forward to the future!
I've finally done it. I started my business...My Pink Pixie is up and crafting :)
If you havent done so please check out my website
www.mypinkpixie.com share it on facebook, LIKE it if you want to, and let me know what you think.

OPEN HOUSE!!!

My Pink Pixie
and
SCENTSY

April 12th Tuesday
6-9pm

My House
9490 SW 165th Ave
Beaverton, OR 97007

time passes on....

2010-09-12T00:32:00.000-07:00

I can't believe summer has come and went...the smell of Fall is in the air, the leaves are slowly starting to change color and kids are back in school.
We have done lots of fun things this summer and ventured all around Beaverton to different parks, playgrounds and water fountains. We were lucky to go to Utah for 10 days and visit with family and friends. Mikaila asks everytime if we can just move there all ready. Sometimes I think it would be nice to be close to family and then I am always reminded by family why it is nice to live away!
Life has been busy as always and work is going well. I only wish I could say the same for my marathon training. I only have one month until the marathon and I havent ran in almost a month, doesnt look promising. First it was my knee and then I got a kink in my neck when we went to Utah, then got Bronchitis and have had it for almost two weeks and this morning I woke up with a major stitch in my ribcage like I bruised something internally from coughing so much!! Seriously is this happening to me!
The kids are doing great. Mikaila starts preschool on Thursday I can't believe she will be four in just a few weeks. She is so funny and makes me laugh all the time I wish I could bottle her up and take her out in doses. Isaak is saying so much and its so clear. He is the sweetest boy EVER!! His face melts my heart.
Mikael and I are doing great! I only wish we got more one on one time together. We spend a lot of our time with others, by ourselves or with the kids. I think a mandatory date night should be in place!! (I'll work on that and keep you posted)
Also I have been trying to come up with ways to make money and start a business selling hair bows. I've come up with a name called THE PINK PIXIE and will debuting shortly just working out the logistics. I'm really excited!! Stay tuned...

Mikael's 36th Birthday Party!!

2010-06-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

Our Friends Tony and Lori have a boat and invited us out to the lake with them for Mikael's birthday. We had a BLAST at Hagg Lake and can't wait to go again and again and again!!!

Isaak and me chilling on the boat (love the pink lifevest) I have since bought him his own!

Brothers!! Pearce and Isaak

Thank you Tony and Lori for a wonderful day at the Lake!! We love you...

Isaak was a little scared at first when we got on the boat but he was soon at ease and having fun!

This girl is a one with the water, she doesnt care how cold it is she is out there swimming in it like its bath water!! She even knee boarded for the first time!! (mikael was behind helping out...thanks dad!)

Afterwords we heading to Tony's mom's house which is right on the lake for a bbq and chocolate cake!!
Happy Birthday Mikael you are an Amazing dad, and a wonderful, caring husband. I am so happy with our life together and love being your wife everyday. I love you!!

Day trip to Seaside, OR

2010-05-31T13:22:00.001-07:00

The last day before they left we drove to Seaside, OR which is just over an hour away. We were so glad we did!!

First the kids HAD to ride the carosel and they LOVED it, well Mikaila did Isaak could have gone without. He would much rather just watch.

Evarlie LOVED it and cried when she had to get off

Then we went to the Aquarium were the kids got to feed seals fish and touch sea creatures.

Then we headed out to the sand and water to play around for a bit. Mitch was nice and took Isaak out into the waves. Mikael and Mikaila were swinging and Ciara....

was chasing this little runner down the beach! Where you going Evarlie?

To finish it off Mikaila and I rode the bumper cars she liked driving but did not like everyone bumping into us. But of course wanted to go again afterwards.

Thanks Mitch, Ciara and Evarlie for coming to Oregon and visiting with us. We had such a great time and I was desperately needing some Utah LOVE. Your welcome back anytime!

2010-05-30T14:55:00.000-07:00

We were so glad to have friends from Utah come visit with us last weekend!! It was so fun to see them and hangout even though the weather was typical for Oregon we did some fun things with the kids. We all went to the Zoo the Oregon Zoo is so much different then the Utah Zoo and I was excited to show it off. The kids all had a BLAST!! These are a few of my favorite pics!!

a few days later...

2010-05-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

So a few days later we decided to go back to Lincoln City for the day. The kids have never been to the Oregon Coast so I knew they would LOVE it even if it was cloudy and windy!! They had a blast, the look on their faces was priceless. Mikaila couldnt wait to feel sand on her feet. Isaak obviously couldnt wait to EAT it! YUCK!

Mothers Day Weekend

2010-05-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

I had the BEST mothers day weekend EVER!! My friends husband called Mikael and set up a night at the coast with his wife, another friend Amy and me. It was so FUN to go to Lincoln City, stay in a condo and hangout with girlfriends with No kids (except for baby Sarah but she doesnt really count) and NO husbands!! How great is that?!! It was clear skies and sunshine when we arrived Friday night and it was beautiful. The condo we stayed in had an AWESOME view of the ocean. We went for a walk on the beach then dinner at KYLOS with a great view of the sunset from our table, then Coldstone for dessert, YUMMY! The next morning once again blue skies and sunshine which is rare on the Oregon coast. Lynette and I went for a walk while Amy rested. Then we all went shopping at the Outlet Mall we spent 4 hours talking and shopping. Afterwards Amy and me headed back to reality while Lynette's family joined her at the condo for the week. It was such a wonderful surprise and a much needed vacation. Thank you Derek for the amazing gift and Lynette for wanting a girls night with ME. Thank you Mikael for watching our kids and being so thoughtful. Thank you Scott for the sending your wife with us she is a blessing in my life!

Who's that Lady! I meant little girl!!

2010-04-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

Mikaila has been dying to cut her hair. So with much hesitation I took her and with a huge smile on her face this is what we came home with. I think she looks really cute with short hair and not so messy. It was a struggle to even brush her hair let alone actually do it. This is much easier for her and me. Dad is still adjusting... I will miss her curls and hopefully they'll return again someday. Until then who's that lady running around my house!! Oh wait!! It's Mikaila ;)

Baby Sarah

2010-04-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of taking photos of my friend Amy's sweet, adorable baby girl Sarah. She was 3 months old when we took these photos. These are a few of my favorite!!

These are from photo shoot #2 I was babysitting her kids while she was at the dentist and I thought why not take some more pictures of Sarah! She is so smiley and the easiest baby I've ever seen I've never once heard her cry or fuss. How nice would that be? She is now 4 months old.

UH-OH!! Someone made a mess!

2010-04-18T00:09:00.000-07:00

I was making pankcake for the kids and Isaak was helping me. I turned around to put the pancake flour away and this happened. Luckily nothing else was in the bowl yet. I quickly ran and got my camera. He is so funny and into everything...literally!!

While cleaning up the pancake fiasco he was busy making a mess elsewhere. He dumped out my entire bag and was chewing on gum still in the foil paper! Man kid you've only been awake 15 minutes and I'm already having a "Great" day!...LOL

Easter 2010

2010-04-18T00:02:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures I attempted to take of all three kids. Unfortunately only two were willing to cooperate. I still think they turned out pretty cute...hot dog and all!

Warning!!

2010-02-25T14:48:00.000-08:00

As much as I'd like to have a great excuse why I havent been blogging I don't have one. I never do. I have lots to blog about life has been busy but I can't seem to find the time to blog about it. So I am forwarning you this may be lengthy but we'll see how it goes.
First thing I want to blog about is Mikael. I am so proud of him he got rebaptized in January. He has been working hard to make it happen and it finally did. It was such a great experience and I couldn't be happier. I know that our next step is going to be getting sealed to eachother next year. I never thought that would be important to me or something I would ever want but it's amazing how much I do. I want nothing more than for my family to be together for time and all eternity!

Mikaila has been talking about and planning her 4th birthday since the day after her 3rd birthday. She loves parties what little kid doesnt so I had an idea. Since her birthday isnt for 7 months I threw her a Valentine's Party we invited all her friends from church they decorated boxes and had a Valentine exchange, then ate lunch and decorated big heart shaped sugar cookies I made they were delicious!! All the kids were so cute and had a fun time. She hasnt been talking her birthday party everyday anymore I think it cured her.

Over Valentines weekend I was getting my Bodypump Certification it was a 3 day, 9 hours a day of training. It was extremly intense and I pushed my body harder and farther than I ever had and it was AMAZING!! Bodypump is a barbell workout,you can check it out at www.lesmills.com
Last weekend was our 5 year Anniversary!! We got a babysitter and had date night. We went to dinner at Claimjumper (our favorite) then we went to see the movie Edge of Darkness with Mel Gibson but we didnt look on Friday for times we looked the night before not realzing a new movie was coming out on Friday and it would no longer be in the theater....oops! So we went and saw Valentine's Day because it was the only movie close to the time we were going to see the other one. Mikael hated it he was ready to leave within 20 minutes but I made him sit it out. I was not leaving to go home to kids! It was ok but not a movie I would have wasted money at the theater for...good thing I had gift certificates! It was still a fun night out.

The weather has been unseasonally warm lately and we have been having fun going to the children's museum, the zoo, parks, playdates and taking walks. We love being outdoors. Unfortuately the last two days have turned back to rain and clouds. Mikaila is sick with the flu so I have been able to finally sit and blog. At least something good has come from her illness :)

Mikaila says the funniest things to me lately I don't know where she comes up it.
The other day she got dressed and came to me asking, "mom do you know why I'm so beautiful?" me "nope" her "because I'm your daughter."
How sweet is that!! But then a few days later..."mom I'm prettier than you, your not very pretty with your hair like that." me, mouth open..."thanks..."
Mikaila "Mom, why do I have hair on my lip?" me "it's not hair, just fuzz." her "I think I'm turning into a boy!" hehehe.
She is growing up so much and is such a big helper with Isaak. Everywhere she goes she tells everyone and I mean everyone that he is her little brother and they need to be nice to him. She makes friends easily and wants everyone to be her friend and come over for a playdate. She will see some random girl on the side of the street and say things like. "she's so pretty, I want her to be my friend, do you think she can come over for a playdate?" She is really thoughtful. I just LOVE this girl!!

Isaak is still the sweetest, cuddly boy. He loves to tug on his ears and suck his binky and let me hold him. Breaking him of that binky is not going to be easy he usually only has it at bedtime but he is teething and likes to chew on it. He is more sensitive than Mikaila if he falls down he cries, if he gets frustrated he cries, if I leave he cries, if he wants something he grunts! He says only a few words; mama, dada, hi, baw (ball), boon (balloon) everything else he says only I understand because their not words more like noise coming from his lips, its really cute he thinks he can speak but really he can't. So funny!

Well for now I think we are all caught up. I'll try and post again before the end of March!...Have I mentioned how much I LOVE my camera! IT's the best and my pictures are getting better all the time.

Goodbye 20's HELLO 30's!!!

2010-01-12T23:26:00.000-08:00

My pretty flowers

My balloons with Mikaila playing in them I love this pic!
No pic of banana pancakes I ate them too quick!

Opening presents with the kiddos

At my 2nd b-day party, LOOK at the size of that cake!!

Yes you read that right! I turned the big "3-0" on January 6th. I had a wonderful day it started off with Mikael waking me up with Banana pancakes, balloons and roses! What a great husband it has taken me 5 years but I think he is almost trained ;) Isaak took a nice long nap so I was able to color my hair, shower, get ready, play games with Mikaila and take a nap myself. It was so nice. My friend just had a baby so I was able to make her dinner she couldnt believe I was making her dinner on my birthday but I was so happy to be doing something for her. So in exchange she made me a yummy chocolate cake and sang Happy Birthday to me! Then later that evening Mikaels parents came over for cake, ice cream and presents. Mikael got me an IPOD shuffle, I've been hinting I need one so I'll have music when I'm running. I received a lot of phone calls, emails, texts and messages of Facebook. It was a really GREAT day and I felt so LOVED!
Then Friday a couple of my friends had a Birthday Party for me! It was so fun talking with everyone and catching up. Jessica's husband Erik made my birthday cake and WOW!! it was the largest cake I've ever seen. Complete with trick candles that relite...stupid candles! Anyway after food, cake, ice cream, singing, talking, laughing, balloons, no kidS and presents the party came to an end. I don't think I've had a birthday this fun in years!! Thanks to everyone who helped out and who came it truly was a memorable night!!

So something I have been thinking about and have decided is that since I am 30 this year I would cross off 3 things on my TO DO list. The first one I've decided is to Run a Marathon, I am going to run the Portland Marathon 10-10-2010 it is 9 months away. I have found a program to follow from www.halhigdon.com it is a 30 week program so it starts March 16th but I am going to start training now slowly until then. Although I am in great shape I am not in runners shape.
I am looking forward to the year ahead and all that is in store.
As for the other two things I'm not sure what they are yet but I've got all year to figure it out.

Long overdue update!!

2010-01-05T23:25:00.000-08:00

A lot has happened since the last time I blogged. Christmas has come and went, new years is the past and my 30th Birthday is right around the corner.
Mikaila also danced in her first dance recital. She was so cute performing she did a great job! A few days before we left for Utah we had an early christmas with Pearce and Nana and Papa. They gave all the kids pajamas and books. They all LOVED them!! We traveled to Utah for Christmas this year and since Santa has so much to bring we drove, 14 hours in the car with two kids is something I do not recommend! This was Isaak first long car ride and lets just say we won't be doing that for a long time!!
We had a great holiday season baking, decorating, shopping and celebrating Christ. A few of our activites included Black Friday shopping (thanks Lynette for going with me) there is something about waking up at 4am to go shopping. Ice skating in Sherwood with friends, decorating our house and tree, it took me over 4 hours to do just the tree! building and destroying the gingerbread house, lights at temple square, dinner with friends (without kids) and baking cookies for Santa. I took Mikaila to the mall to see Santa and she asked him for a dollhouse and he told her he'd bring her one, good thing to know the day before Christmas. Needless to say Santa followed through...barely! We had a great Christmas with family and friends. One tradition is Christmas Eve at my mom's house. She moved back to Utah in September and we stayed at her new place with her. Every year gets better watching my children faces light up as bright as the tree. Christmas morning we went to Mikael's sisters house for breakfast then drove to Evanston, WY to spend sometime with my dad. My parents are divorced and it has been 15 years since I have seen my dad on Christmas day. We had a great visit and Mikaila got to see the horses. She can't wait to ride them in the summer.
As for my birthday well that's tomorrow. Look for a new post coming soon ;)

Isaak's 1st Birthday!!

2009-11-15T20:50:00.000-08:00

Isaak's birthday week wasnt as exciting as Mikaila's. Maybe because he is one and there is only so much you can do with a one year old. But it was still FUN! On Wed November 11th his birthday, we went to lunch at Red Robin with Papa, Nana, Pearce, Mikaila, Daddy, Mommy and Isaak. He loved the balloon that was his favorite part. He doesnt get opening presents yet but Pearce was there to show him what to do! Then I took him to get his pictures taken. They turned out fabulous!! Seriously they were all great it was hard to only get 4. I love the ones with the big cupcake (thanks Ciara I stole your idea) he had so much fun eating and destroying the cupcake.

Isaak,

I cant believe you are One! The year has flown by but I have cherished everyday with you. From the moment you were born I was in love with you. You are the happiest baby. You love to snuggle, laugh, you rarely cry, love your binky, you fall asleep by yourself and have slept through the night since you were two months old. You have 6 teeth(4 on top, 2 on bottom) are almost walking but you hate to fall. You love to climb everything the stairs, toys, on the table, bins in playroom, the front of the oven. You say mama, dada, titty (kitty) and yeah. You have an amazing spirit about you and are so stinkin cute!! I love that I am your Mommy and you are my precious son!

I love you Isaak Mathew Luman

Love always,
Mommy

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T13:09:00.003-08:00

Princess Ariel!! Mikaila loves Ariel right now and couldnt wait to dress up as her for halloween. She had such a great time trick or treating she told everyone thank you and then would hurry to the next house for more candy! She LOVED it!!

Isaak was Frosty the Snowman! He looked adorable in his costume and it kept him nice and warm

I even got Mikael to wear some Devil horns

I dressed up as a witch, really I just wanted an excuse to wear my costume!!

Disney on Ice

2009-10-28T14:12:00.001-07:00

Princess Belle's Dress

Snow White's Dress

She wore that huge smile on her face the whole time!

From Cars~ Lightning McQueen

Then The Little Mermaid

Then Lion King

and Tinkerbelle

Mikael and Pearce wearing their Cars hats!

We took Pearce and Mikaila to Disney on Ice last Saturday. Mikaila is in love with Ariel right now that is her favorite! When we told her we were going to see Ariel she was so excited she was bouncing and dancing all over the place. She really wanted to go on the ice and started to cry when I told her we werent allowed to go down there and skate with them. I guess I'll have to take her to Lloyd Center and go ice skating. Even Pearce said it was a lot of fun he kept thanking us for taking him, it was really sweet.
I don't ever remember my parents doing a lot of fun activities with me like Disney on Ice or the Circus I really want my kids to look back at their childhood and have fun memories. Something they look forward doing with their own kids.
Ever since I became a mom I have been in search of traditions. My mom hates holidays the only one she really likes is Thanksgiving. So I didnt grow up with many traditions. The few I have I've incorporated into my life and I am always searching for new fun things to add each year. With Halloween, Thanksgivng and then Christmas right around the corner I am looking for new things to add this year. Let me know what traditions you have, what is something memerable from your childhood or lend me an idea to add to my traditions. I'd love to hear you thoughts and ideas!

Everything FALL!

2009-10-21T17:08:00.001-07:00

As always October is my favorite month and we have been doing tons of fun stuff. Fall is definitly in the air. The smell of rain and colder weather always makes me want hot soup warm rolls and a blanket. But there is just too much going on outside! Oregon is beautiful in the fall!! I cant believe how much there is to do! We've gone to several pumpkin patches, apple farms, made yummy gormet caramel apples and went to fall festival. We still have a couple more pumkin patches to hit, parties to attend, and of course Halloween!! Did I mention I LOVE October!

Cute mug shot at Heritage Apple Farm

The Princess and her pumpkin! You'd think I dressed her like that...Nope did that all on her own

Gorgeous Leaves changing! Took these pictures while driving!

Princess Ariel at Fall Festival

Ava and Snowman Isaak!

So close to walking! Just let GO!

Mikaila wanted her face painted the girl is painting pumpkins, ghosts, hearts, stars. Very basic stuff then she asks Mikaila what she wants and she tells her Ariel...I think the girl did a great job!

Delicious!!So good I've made these apples twice now...maybe doing it again! Carmel, Chocolate, candy bar...YUM

Keith Urban!!

2009-10-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

Jenn and me outside by his tour bus

If you look beside me you can see the little girl who sat by me she had to be 8 or 9 yrs old and was the cutest thing ever!! Jammin and singin the whole time!! I'm totally taking Mikaila to a concert someday!!

We had awesome seats!!

In all my excitement for Mikaila's Birthday I forgot to blog about my Keith Urban
concert!! My friend Jenn from Utah whom I have known since jr high flew up to go to this concert with me. I love country music and I don't have any friends who listen to it in Oregon (or at least that I'm aware of) Jenn went to his concert Sept 9th in Utah then again with me Sept 11th. Thanks Jenn for coming with me it was a BLAST!!!

Finally Day 7 of Birthday week!

2009-10-13T15:54:00.000-07:00

So glad to finally be able to post about Mikaila's last birthday party! We had a great birthday dinner with Nana, Papa, Courtney, Pearce, Tony and Lori. Thanks everyone for coming and making Mikaila's birthday so special.

Mikaila

I cant even begin to tell you how special you are. I remember the day you were born 3 years ago like it was yesterday, where did the time go. You have an amazing spirit about you. You are strong willed, stubborn, determined, kind, gentle, loving, cuddly, funny, generous, happy, energetic to say the least! The things you do make me crazy but they are also the things I love about you (funny how that works). I hope this birthday week has been everything you imagined and more! You will always be my baby girl...always!! Love Mommy

Birthday Week Days 4,5,6

2009-09-30T23:36:00.000-07:00

Day 4 was going to be a relaxing day a recooperating day and that is exactly what it turned out to be. On our way home from my work Isaak fell asleep and Mikaila had been grouchy all morning so I told her to go rest in her bed while I put the groceries away. When I came to check on her she was asleep, 3 hours later they woke up! What a wonderful break for me in the middle of the day that rarely happens!! I got Mikaila ready for swimming lessons again but once again she wouldnt get in the water and cried so I cancelled them for now. She had a problem that it was a male teacher she didnt want him in there so she wouldnt get in. Oh well we'll try again later with a female teacher. Then that evening we went ot Mikael's softball game, picked up Pearce from soccer, quick stop at 7-11 for slurpees and home. Nothing too exciting I didnt even take a picture...

Day 5 we went boating at Hagg Lake. The kids and me played on the beach while everyone else wakeboarded, it was too windy on the water for us and we had much more fun in the sand/mud!

Then we stopped at Pump it up so Mikaila could play and meet Barney of course the highlight of the whole day for her and really the only reason we went there that day she was so excited it was like a dream come true for this little girl!

Day 6 Hello Kitty Birthday Party!!! I woke up during the night shivering with the chills not thinking much of it. Mikaila's party started at 11am. We played Pin the Bow on Hello Kitty and Musical Hello Kitty then pizza for lunch, presents, cake and pinata! The kids had a great time...me I was exhausted and not feeling well. Luckily I had great friends who helped out and the party was a success!! After everyone left I laid down and didnt get back up for hours. I took my temp and it was 102.2 and my throat was sore by morning my throat was on FIRE!! I went to Instacare and found out I had strep throat! YUCK!! So I had to cancel Mikaila's family birthday party :( we postponed Day 7 til next Sunday. Its a good thing she's 3 and doesnt really understand just that she gets to have another party on Sunday something to look forward to!
Wondering where all the birthday pics are...there isnt very many I was too sick to even take pictures! I'm so sad...but her cake on the other hand...so CUTE!! thanks Stephanie!

Mikailas Birthday week days 1-3

2009-09-23T23:43:00.000-07:00

Monday we started Mikaila's birthday week with pictures of her. She is such a ham for the camera. Everytime the photographer would tell her to smile she would throw her head back and laugh. Fortunately we got some great shots how that happened is a mystery...

Tuesday I took her to the library for books and DVD's then to the Fountains/Park to play and get wet! Isaak was right there with her. He is almost walking and wanted to be so bad. Mikaila loved it she is a water bug. Then off to swimming lessons. We ended up being 15min late because I was in such a hurry I accidently locked Mikaila and Isaak in the car with they keys and my cell phone. Luckily Mikael had just gotten home from work and drove them to me and I freed the children. I couldn't believe I had done that made me sick to my stomach but they survived! After swimming we raced off to the river with friends to go boating then finally home for the night.

Wednesday she had ballet in the morning which she loves believe me this girl needs some grace. She is very athletic but definitly not graceful. She loves to walk around on her tip toes and has forever. I'll tell you this girl has some killer calves for only being 3. After that we headed to the zoo with friends to check out the new lion exihibit and all the animals. After 3 hours at the zoo I was exhausted and ready to go home. We had a really good time and Mikaila wants to go again...maybe next week!

Only 4 more days to go...

Sprinklers

2009-09-05T14:14:00.000-07:00

Mikaila's favorite thing is running through the sprinklers. Whenever they start it's all I can do to get her to keep her clothes on! We were outside hanging out in the front yard and they started. She started squealing and stripping. I did convince her to at least keep her panties on. Isaak was pretty excited himself. He kept putting his hand in the water and then licking it off. At least they had FUN!

Utah trip Summer 2009

2009-08-31T17:10:00.000-07:00

The kids and me headed to Utah for our annual summer trip to visit my family on August 15th. Mikael flew in a day early to surprise me and arrived August 19th we all flew home together on the 24th. We had a lot of fun adventures planned and everyone had a great time! Lagoon, Hogal Zoo, Swimming, Disney Days, Shopping, food and tons of FUN!! Here are some highlights...

My neice Bailey and my bestest friend Ciara hanging out poolside at Murray Rec Pool

Little Family pic Mikaila is missing in action swimming in the pool of course!
That girl loves the water!

We went to Disney Days at the Gullivan Center and Mikaila wanted her face painted like a Dinosaur, this is the end result I'm not sure it's a dinosaur but Mikaila LOVED it!

Here is my brother Wade and his baby Ryder who is now 4 months old. There hanging out at Lagoona beach!

I love her expression in this photo. She was so excited to ride the rides at Lagoon!

Evarlie and Mikaila riding the boats. Mikaila was protective of her bell and was NOT letting Evarlie ring it. I don't think Evarlie even noticed she had just woken up from a nap and wasnt very happy but they still look so cute!

Isaak's first time on a Merry Go Round! He liked it but was really just watching everyone else. Don't you like that my head looks like it's sitting on top of Isaaks arm...oops!

I had to include this pic. Mikael played in a softball game two days before he flew out and injured his knee so when we went to Hogal Zoo he rented a motorized wheelchair so he didnt have to hobble around the zoo. What a great idea! He said that's the only way to do the zoo...and the kids loved it too!

Giraff's are my favorite animal at the zoo so I had to include this picture. Besides they had a baby giraff and it was so cute!!

We really did have a great time hanging out with Family and Friends!! We can't wait to do it again next year...but maybe without all the drama!

Washington County Fair

2009-08-02T08:10:00.001-07:00

A friend of Mikael's said she wanted to take the kids and me to the fair. Which I thought was a great idea because with Mikael working non stop lately I wouldn't have to take them by myself! So Saturday we headed to the County Fair for rides, animals and lots of fair food!!

Mikaila LOVES to ride the Carousel and it was the first thing she did when we got there

This little man is a people watcher he was totally content just hanging out in the stroller watching everyone else

We also took Mikael's niece Courtney with us so she rode on the roller coaster with Mikaila and it's a good thing she did. It scared her she held on to Courtney for dear life!

Afterwords she rode the Alligator ride this was more her speed!

Then we went over to check out the farm animals this goat got upclose and personal with Isaak. He was so excited to have the goat right at his eye level.

By the end of our 4 1/2 hours at the fair Isaak was tuckered out!! He passed out on the way to the car

Somewhere between all the fun we ate corndogs and elephant ears and snocones and icecream!! We had so much FUN a the fair. It has been years since I have gone to a fair and I can't wait to take them to the State Fair next month!

Heat Wave!!

2009-07-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

We have been roasting, baking and melting in our home and no food has even been prepared. It's just us sweating out of every pore! Yes it has been that HOT!! Triple digits the last three days and with no air conditioner this must be what hell is like. I know I don't want to go. Because of the heat I had Isaak and Mikaila sleep over at Nana and Papas house for 3 nights that was the first time ever that I have been away from my kids at night and under different circumstances it might have been really nice but I was too grouchy and hot to enjoy it. Wed. night Mikael invested in a window unit and thankfully it worked. For two days now the house is finally bearable. I can sit on the couch and not start sweating just sitting there. Finally RELIEF!! AAAHHHHHHH! That's all I can say...

4th of July weekend

2009-07-10T17:31:00.000-07:00

We started off the weekend at Hagg Lake with friends Tony and Lori. I am a water girl I LOVE it!! I go camping, wave running, boating every year in Utah but this was the first time Mikael and I have done it together and the first time I have been in Oregon. It was a lot of FUN to show him my skills...

Mikaila gets her love of the water from me that is for sure! She couldnt wait to get in there!! Mikael went with her it was her first time out there and all but she kept pushing him away telling him to GET OFF! I want to do it MYSELF!!

Then Saturday we took the kids to the Cedar Hills Parade which was ok for Mikaila's first parade but there has to be a better one out there to go to next year. She did get plenty of candy so we didnt care. Then that night we had a BBQ with the family. Mikael's sister and brother both came to town with their families so we had a great time!! We did fireworks in the street but next year I think we'll go somewhere to watch them.
Sorry I have no other pictures I forgot my camera all weekend. I only have pictures of boating thanks to Tony and Lori.
Hope everyone had a Happy 4th of July!!

Happy Birthday...Happy Fathers Day!!

2009-07-09T21:44:00.000-07:00

The month of June belongs to Mikael in our house with his Birthday being on the 12th and Father's Day it all seems to be about HIM! As it should be! First of all I have to say he is an AMAZING husband a FABULOUS Dad and the most generous, caring man I've ever met.
We celebrated his birthday this year with a BBQ. I have wanted a BBQ'r for awhile now and I figured if I threw him a BBQ Birthday then I'd have to buy the BBq'r and it worked like a charm...

Then the next weekend was Fathers Day! Mikaila and me made Mikael breakfast in bed...pancakes her favorite with juice and fruit. Then he opened his presents Mikaila painted him several masterpieces and he got some clothes and a cute picture frame with the above picture inside. Then later we had a BBQ steaks and potatoes and Brownies of course for these two men and the cutest baby ever
!

Also I called this man

My Daddy!

To all the special men in my life I LOVE you all!!

New Addition and What was I thinking?...

2009-06-20T11:25:00.000-07:00

There is a new addition in the Luman household and his name is Elliot. Our friends Cat had kittens and they offered one to us. I fell in love with this little guy and so did Mikaila. I just had to have him. He is the sweetest little kitty he loves to cuddle on my lap and lay behind my neck and rest his head on my shoulder. He is very playful and Chloe and him will play and run around the house for hours. It is hilarious!

On another note...what was I thinking? I was bored last weekend and thought it would be a good idea to change my hair color. You know just make my already red hair a little tiny bit brighter. Unfortunately that is not what happened. I changed it alright! To bright clown ORANGE!! Hideous! Mikael just laughed at me and said well now its definitely brighter!

I can't believe I'm even posting this picture but you wouldn't fully understand how horrible it was unless I did!

Thankfully my friend Manian from work does hair and was a life saver! She fixed my mistake. Now I love my hair color, I wasnt planning on going dark for summer but I have to admit I LOVE IT!!

My froggies!

2009-05-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have this picture of Mikaila hung up in the kids frog bathroom and it is so cute! I decided I should take one of Isaak and I have to admit it's just as cute. But sadly the towel isnt as bright green as it used to be. Mikaila is about the same age as Isaak is now and its fun to see the similarites and differences in their apprearance. They have the same mouth and eyebrows but different noses and eyes and shaped faces hers is much more round. Mikaila loves Isaak so much and its so sweet to see her care for him and take care of him. I just hope it stays that way! Yeah Right!

6 months already

2009-05-24T12:48:00.000-07:00

I realize it has been over a month since I blogged last which that is just unacceptable! Mikaila is totally potty trained now and she tells me all the time how BIG she is. It took some bribing a tea set and ChuckE Cheese but it paid off! She loves wearing her panties and picking out which ones to wear each day. She is growing up too fast!!
Isaak had his 6 month check up and is now 17.6 pounds and off the charts in height. He is going to be tall. He is now on solids and not spitting up as much but still it never fails just when I'm dressed in something I don't want spit up on sure enough it gets all over me.
We went to Utah then end of April to beginning of May and had a great time. My brother Wade had his first baby a boy named Ryder. My mom flew in from South Carolina and I got to show off Isaak my brothers hadnt seen him yet. Everyone couldnt believe how happy he was and how well Mikaila could talk. We were sad to leave.

New Pictures

2009-04-17T14:03:00.000-07:00

So I took the kids to get pictures done. It's been a long time since I've had pictures of the kids taken. I think they turned out GREAT!! I'm really happy with them and thought I'd show them off!

Pearce, Mikaila and Isaak

Just the boys!

Mikaila and Isaak

FYI: Pictures taken at Image Express at the Cedar Hills Mall. Outfits from Children's Place

Happy Easter!!

2009-04-12T17:12:00.000-07:00

The Hunt is on!...

There's that wink!

Blowing bubbles afterward

Growing up holidays weren't necessarily big at my house but they were always a lot of fun. Now that I have my own kids I am trying to come up with traditions things I did as a kid, that Mikael did and new stuff to add to each holiday that arises. Last year and now this year we went to an Easter Egg Hunt given by a family in my ward. Even though we moved and are no longer in that ward, I remember what a great time we had last year so we went again this year. Mikaila had a BLAST!! She is so excited about the Easter Bunny this year. We saw him at the mall last week and she could not contain herself. He was on the lower level and we were above she saw him and just started yelling, "Easter Bunny, Easter Bunny I'm up here!" He looks up and waves she yells back to him, "hold on I'll be right down!" she ran through Nordstroms as fast as her little legs would take her, down the elevator and to the Bunny! She danced with him and got her picture taken. I only wished I had my video camera. I'm not sure she knows what the Easter Bunny does or why he is bringing her candy and gifts but I'm sure she doesnt care either. We got up this morning to discover the bunny had come during the night. She says, "why are all these eggs all over?" I tell her she's suppose to pick them all up with her basket. While she was gathering her eggs she says, "why the Easter Bunny do this him so silly" She is pretty cute!

Almost

2009-04-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

Just a little update with the move. We have been in our new house now for one week. Almost everything is unpacked but I've still got tons to hang and final touches to make it feel more like home. Mikaila is almost potty trained we go several times during the day and have only had a two accidents all week. Fingers Crossed...I almost missed taking the cutest picture, luckily for me Mikael put the camera in the same spot we had it at the old house so I didnt have to hunt for it. Of course we had to take turns with the ears...Thanks Nana

4 1/2 months

2009-03-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

So Isaak had his 4 month checkup and I can't believe how tall he is getting. He was 27 inches (100%) 15.5 pds (75%). I love everything about this baby! He is the happiest, sweetest baby. He loves to cuddle, rarely cries and makes me smile all the time! Here are a few pics of his sweet face...

Busy Bee

2009-03-15T23:28:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy lately and life is crazy as ever! If you could only imagine. Work is going great I am loving it. We had a fitness seminar today and I after someone overheard me talking about Mikaila and Isaak. She came up to me and said, "you have two kids?" Yes I told her. She looked surprised she says, "really?, I thought you were just out of college, no older than 22."
From the time I was 12 people have always thought I looked older than my age and then at 21 it went in the reverse. People would think I was 19 rather than 21 and so it continues. I love the fact that I am almost 30 and people still think I'm early 20's. My only hope is that this continues...forever!

So thank you nice lady, you made my day!

SOLD

2009-03-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

Yup that's right. Our house is SOLD. We had an offer over a week ago and I am just coming to terms with the fact that yes I will be moving. The other night I was in the tub soaking trying to relax after putting the kids to bed and I became over whelmed with the idea of somebody else living in MY house. Mikael came in and I was bawling like a baby. He said to me, I thought you were ok moving. Yes I'll be ok I'm just sad. It is such a different feeling having to move then wanting to move. I LOVE my house. I LOVE my neighbors. I LOVE my ward. I will miss all of them.

We are renting a house about 1 1/2 miles from where I live now. It is a new home no one has lived in it. When Mikael and I decided to build our house over two years ago. We were debating between the neighborhood we built in and this neighborhood I'm going to be moving into so the fact that I am now going to be living there now seems ironic. Maybe I was always meant to live there...

Blogging Slump

2009-02-13T23:49:00.000-08:00

I have been hit by the blogging slump bug but I'm back! There has been so much going on and not enough time in the day to write about any of it. It seems like all I do from the moment I wake up til I go to bed is take care of kids which I guess it what I'm suppose to do. I am a mom after all. But has definitly left little to no time for blogging. Some of you may know but many do not, that sadly our house is on the market. After a year of Mikael trying to promote A Generation Free our none profit and trying to promote his book 800 meters we are having to sell our house. I have debated writing about this because it is so personal to me but I want you all to know how proud I am of my husband for following his dreams. This has been a stumbling block for him and us but has made our family grow in so many ways. And it is not over. But I truly believe things happen for a reason. I still have some hope that something big will happen I just don't know when hopefully soon...before my house sells! I have gone back to work personal training at Cedar Hills Rec Center and am also now a fitness instructor teaching Boot Camp twice a week. I have to admit it is wonderful to get paid for working out and they have day care. So I never have to worry about a babysitter. Believe me this body needs this class and I love it! Another plus is I get to set my schedule so I train whenever I want. It feels great to be able to help my family out even if it's just a little but not be tied down to someone elses schedule. Isaak is growing like a weed he finally went to the Dr today for his two month checkup even though he turned 3 months on Wednesday. He is 14.5 pounds (75%)he was 25.5 inches (90%) his head was 16 (49%). Isaak has had his first cold now for two days, shots today and I also found out today he has thrush which I'm not exactly sure what that is but its treatable that's all that matters. So he is not his usual happy baby. But the cutest little thing ever! He is so happy all the time and loves to smile and laugh. He is living up to his name Isaak means Laughter. He rolled over for the first time last week from his stomach to his back. Everyone always asks me if he is a good sleeper...YES!! This boy is not a morning baby which is good cause neither am I. He sleeps easily 12 hours from the time he goes to bed til he wakes up with one feeding usually 8 hours after he's gone to bed. He's the best baby. Mikaila is well...Mikaila. The other day she lifted her shirt and said, "look mom my boob." "Ok put your shirt down." A few seconds later she is laying over the top of Isaak trying to put her boob in his mouth. He is like a baby bird looking for food. She then says to me while covering her boob, "he drank my milk." Oh great! She is quite the little mother I have to watch her carefully because she always tries to hold him and loves to lay next to him and put her arm around him she always says, "Isaak my best friend." How sweet is that! So there's an update on our family. Make sure to tell someone you love them tomorrow! Happy Valentines Day! xoxo

Sorry that it is so dark but really you just need volume

Still in my twenties...

2009-01-10T11:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe another year has come and gone. I swear I just posted about my birthday and here I am doing it again. I had a wonderful birthday week. I got several cards, money,two date nights with Mikael, time with and without kids and lots of phone calls emails and texts wishing me a Happy Birthday. I'm feeling very special and loved! Being 29 couldn't be better...
I only took two pictures on my birthday and after looking at them I almost cropped all the kids out but I decided not to they are all crazy and a whole lot of FUN!

Do 2 year olds say this?

2009-01-01T23:46:00.001-08:00

Today I was sitting on the floor changing Isaak when I hear Mikaila say to Mikael,
"Daddy this is so cool!"
Did she just say "cool"...yup she sure did.
This girl cracks me up, honestly she is a sponge!

Tonight I was getting Isaak ready for bed so Mikaila gets her baby and puts her in Isaak's pj's and then into his crib she comes running to me, Mommy mommy you have to be quiet my baby is sleeping...shhhhh!! (finger over her lips) Like I say to her all day every day.

And my favorite is when she wants Mikael and me to go with her somewhere,
"come on guys"
like we're just her buddies and hanging out.
She is growing up so much! I love her personality, her smile, her wink!

Christmas 2008

2009-01-01T23:09:00.000-08:00

First of all I hope everyone had a great Christmas. This was our first Christmas in Oregon and it did not disappoint. We had tons of snow it almost felt like utah minus my family and friends. We were stuck at home for several days and were begining to get cabin fever so we ventured outside only to not be able to get back into our driveway...huge hill and bald tires. So we had to park at the bottom and hike home luckily it wasnt very far. We spent Christmas eve at some friends house having dinner and visiting and then home.

Mikaila was excited for Santa to come. We made cookies for him that morning so we left them out before she went to bed. The first thing she wanted to know in the morning was where are her cookies. I told her Santa ate them and she begun to fake cry...I explained he traded her the cookies for presents but still more fake crying. It wasnt until she opened her first present that she was alright with Santa eating her cookies.

Mikaila loves umbrellas so Nana got her, her very own and she loves it. Of course it had to be pink and Nana even put her name on it. She was very excited!

Since its New Years today I thought I should wish everyone a Happy New Year!
Here's to 2009!!
Cheers!

The Bennions

2008-12-24T16:01:00.000-08:00

We were very fortunate to go Christmas Caroling with The Bennions. They are a family that is in my in-laws Murrayhill ward. They have 13 children. Two who are married with families of their own and two that are on a mission. 9 children are still at home, ranging from high school to three years old. What a wonderful family to spend an evening with. We went caroling to their neighbors and then back to their home for hot chocolate and a private performance.

This was my favorite song they sang. Sadly it does not do them justice. They are an extremely talanted family. Thank you for a memorable night!!

who is that girl!!

2008-12-23T00:14:00.001-08:00

What to do when you are stranded at home...staighten Mikaila's curly locks. I've been wanting to do this for awhile. Her hair has grown so much in just one year. Let's take a walk down memory lane...

One of the few pictures I have of the back of her head!

Although I prefer the curls it was fun to see her hair straight. She looked so grown up to me.

And no that is not vomit!

2008-12-22T23:37:00.000-08:00

I mentioned that I LOVE fruit cake but not just any fruit cake it has to be my mom's. Last Christmas she sent me home with my own start. To make this fruit cake you have to have a start to candy your fruit. I was so excited! My mom has made this since I was a little girl and my mom got the recipe from my grandma, so it's kind of a tradition. I have never helped my mom make this cake for even watched her it would just magically appear every Christmas. Well I started to candy my fruit back in October and this weekend I made my first fruit cake. And this is what happened...

It is not suppose to look like vomit!

I followed the recipe that I copied from my mom but she forgot to mention that she actually cooks hers for an hour and 45 min. not the hour and 15 min that it said on the recipe. Luckily she gave me a start for two cakes. I won't make that mistake again. The next cake turned out fabulous!!

Pour yourself a nice hot cup of hot chocolate and enjoy!
Oh wait, you can't it's already all gone!! and yes it was so yummy!

I know have starts to make 4 cakes I can't wait until next year...

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2008-12-08T22:28:00.000-08:00

One of my many accomplishments from my mom visiting.

Mikaila is so excited this year for Christmas. I am planning on taking her to get her pictures with Santa. Hopefully she'll sit on his lap and not freak out she's not usually like that but you never know. Anyone know of a great Santa to get pictures with? Let me know.

Some of the things I Love and that I am looking forward to this month~
*Egg Nog
*Fruit cake
*Shopping
*Spending our first Christmas in Oregon
*Mikaila opening her presents Christmas morning
*Christmas Music (yes I love listening to it on the radio)
*Sending out Christmas cards
*The Forgotten Carols

I hope everyone is enjoying this Holiday Season I know we are!!

Lesson Learned

2008-12-06T15:09:00.000-08:00

My mom came to visit for two weeks and she went home yesterday morning. I miss her already! I loved having my mom here, we didnt do much we spent most of our time on my couch watching movies, eating and talking. It was wonderful. She was a huge help with the kids. The first thing I noticed by the end of yesterday was how much my back hurt. Lugging around two kids and trying to get things done in between was a lot harder than I expected and I could feel it by the end of the day.
I love you Mom, thank you so much for spending this time with us!!

Here are a few pics from her stay...

Grandma with the kids the night before she left

Mikaila eating apple pudding (she kept getting applesauce and pudding confused)

Sweet Isaak asleep during Pearce's Christmas program
After you read the story below I had to include a picture of him. How could I be upset with that face?!

I thought I would share an Isaak moment with you.
Tuesday my mom and me took the kids and went grocery shopping. Afterwards we picked up lunch and headed to a nearby park. We ate in the truck and then my mom took Mikaila to swing while I stayed with Isaak. I fed him and then decided to change him before I put him back into the carseat. Well since I was sitting in the drivers seat and it was chilly outside I thought I would change him in my lap. He had pooped just a little bit so I wiped him bottom he then starts pooping more I quickly cover it up allow him to finish and then start cleaning him up again. I had to turn him over in order to wipe his bottom this time and that is when he unloaded all over my lap. I mean it was everywhere all over my pants and shirt. I am laughing so hard by the time my mom got there I had tears in my eyes. She see's me and is laughing hysterically. I had to drive home with baby poop smeared all over my lap. Guess I won't be changing him in my lap anytime soon!

2 weeks old

2008-11-25T14:11:00.000-08:00

Isaak is two weeks old today. How is that possible?!! We went to the Dr. yesterday and he already weighs 9pds 9oz He is growing so fast. Last Monday the wonderful Angi Carman came over to my house and took Isaak's newborn pictures. He slept all day so by the time she got here he was wide awake. I kept nursing him to get him to fall asleep so we could get some pictures with his eyes closed. They turned GREAT!! Thank you Angi for capturing this special time for me. You're the BEST!!
www.capturedbyangi.com

This is my favorite picture it brought tears to my eyes

I love Mikaila's expression, she is such a wonderful BIG sister

I can't stop kissing him.

I wish babies stayed small like this forever!

Isaak's Room

2008-11-25T09:28:00.000-08:00

So here are the pictures of Isaak's room. There are still a few more things to be finished but I wanted to get the pics up. The crib and changing table I found on craigslist. Mikael painted them black and they look brand new!
My friend gave me the bedding so I went with a Jungle theme. I was having a hard time finding pics that looked good. I remembered Mikael's friend Jeremy his mom has them great photos from a trip to Africa so I asked her if I could have copies and she gave me a ton of prints to choose from and all the frames. She is so nice and I love how it turned out!

I am so in love...

2008-11-17T11:14:00.001-08:00

I could just sit and look at this cute chubby face all day!!
He is only 6 days old and is already changing so much! I am so in love...

Isaak Mathew Luman

2008-11-14T20:37:00.000-08:00

He is finally here...Isaak Mathew Luman made his debut on Tuesday November 11, 2008 at 7:34 pm. He weighs 8 pds. 5 oz. and is 19 3/4 inches long. I am definitely one proud mama!!
I had a dr appt at 11:30am on Tuesday and she scraped my membranes I then started having contractions every 10 minutes after that. Then by 2pm they were 5minutes apart so by 4pm we checked into the hospital by 5pm they checked me I was dialated to a 7 almost 8 and was still handeling the contractions great so I wanted to wait to get my epidural. By 7pm the pain was almost too much to handle and I thought I'm done get me an epidural so the dr checked me I was dialated to a 9.5 so she broke my water and at 7:34pm he was here and I had made it without getting an epidural.

YEAH!!! I know that is silly but I wanted to be able to say I did it natural, no drugs and now I can. Honestly I am so proud of myself!!! And no stitches down below! I think this body was made to have babies! Now that I'm done with the gory details here is the little man...

Look at all that hair

getting ready to take him home from the hospital

dressed in his "Going Home" outfit

39 weeks...7 days to go

2008-11-07T21:39:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my due date is only 7 days away. Can that be right?! I sure hope it is. Although the mere thought of having another baby here to take care of is slightly overwhelming to me.(anyone who knows Mikaila understands why) I am really excited to finally meet this little guy inside me. All I think about is what color will his hair be? or how BIG is he going to be? I know the longer he stays in there he's just getting bigger and bigger and I have to give birth to that!!! AHHHH!! Other than that I'm super anxious!
Mikael and I have been working on getting his room put together. The crib, changing table, shelves and baskets have all been painted this week and tomorrow hopefully we can get the pictures hung and the room complete. Pictures will be posted as soon as it's done. I can't wait to show everyone.
So here is the final picture of the enormous belly. Don't mind what I look like I've been cleaning and chasing Mikaila around all day and yes these are the same pj's I wore to bed last night I just havent taken them off today but I still wanted to take a pic (good thing I have other pictures to redeem myself...lol)
Oh by the way, I had a dr's appt on Tuesday and I was dialated to a 3, 70% efaced and -1. So we're definitely moving in the right direction. I have another appt Tues. I'll keep you posted on the progress!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

2008-11-03T20:59:00.000-08:00

I am so behind on my blogging but how could I not blog about Halloween!! We had a great night! I wasnt really sure what to dress Mikaila up as but my mother in law gave me a witch costume and it fit so we went with that this year. Unfortunately the hat didnt fit so we tossed it and spray painted her hair purple with sparkles. I wanted to paint her face green with black lips and a hairy mole but getting a hyper two year old to sit still is nearly impossible so this is what I ended up with. Still cuter then ever!

Pearce and Mikaila ready to go hit up some houses for candy!!

Baby Shower

2008-10-30T23:47:00.000-07:00

So two of my wonderful friends, Bridget and Renae hosted a baby shower for me last night. I truly am so grateful for friends. We had a great time eating, opening presents and doing what we do best...chatting!! Here are a few highlights from our evening...

My wonderful FRIENDS!!
Amber, Bridget, Renae, Me, Kristen and Merilee

A great group of FRIENDS!!
Janine with baby Joshua, Juliana, Sarah, Darilyn and Michelle

Beautiful cake thanks to Stephanie!!

Thanks to everyone who came I really had a FUN time and I appreciate each and everyone of you!
Love,
Mandy

Fall in my backyard

2008-10-30T23:37:00.000-07:00

I love looking out from my deck at the beautiful Fall colors all around. October is my favorite month in Oregon, really it's my favorite month period. I am going to miss October...here a few pics I wanted to share from my view

Traditions

2008-10-28T23:27:00.000-07:00

So I have found a new tradition to add next year. Caramel Apples. I have never made caramel apples and my friend Amy is adventurous and decided to make them so I invited her over and here are the results....

We first dipped them in homemade caramel then melted the best chocolate Guittard milk chocolate chips and then rolled them in a variety of toppings. Nuts, butterfinger, candy corn, mini chocolate chips. DELICIOUS!! and worth every calorie!

Happy Birthday Mikaila!!!

2008-10-19T17:42:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Mahina these beautiful pictures were possible!

My Favorite

Another great shot!

Typical Mikaila look

Look who turned 2

No I didnt forget her birthday, I've just been really busy and didnt have the pics my camera is really slow and I so I had two wonderful friends take pictures for me from her birthday week so I waited until now so this is for you Princess Mikaila...

I can't believe the baby girl I gave birth to not to long ago is already 2. How is that possible?! Growing up my birthday always lasted for weeks on end. It is two weeks after christmas and my parents always seem to make it a big deal. So I would end up having several birthday parties and dinners. Well, I decided to start a birthday week. So the week before Mikaila's birthday she recieved presents or cards in the mail. We went and did something fun or she had pictures taken (above pics brought to you by Mahina she met us at the park for some candid pic of the 2 yr old). All leading up to her big day September 27. Here are a few highlights from her week long birthday...

Mikaila LOVES Barney. So I thought it was perfect for her to have a Barney birthday and Thanks to Stephanie she made that possible...so thank you!

Thanks Ciara for the cute tutu!! The birthday girl looked like a Princess

Mikaila playing with her kitchen...Happy Birthday to you!

We love you Sweet Girl!! You bring so much love and joy into our life!! We thank God every day for you.
We love you

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

Birthday pics courtesy of Amy thanks so much for coming to celebrate Mikaila's special day with us and spending the time to capture her in all her glory!!

Lee Farms

2008-10-17T16:55:00.000-07:00

Mikael found this place on someone elses blog and it looked like a great place to take the kids. So last Saturday we headed to Lee Farms. What a great place I was not disappointed! We started with the petting zoo (goats and Llamas) Mikaila was excited to touch the animals. Then Pearce and Mikaila went down the HUGE slide all by themselves no doubt. Then we(Nana, Pearce, Mikaila and me) headed to the hay mazes. There are two one for smaller children and another for older. Of course they did them both. Then we went on the Hay ride around the property and saw pigs, rabbits, horses and the christmas trees that will be available for cutting this year. Next Mikaila had to have a pony ride, while Pearce did the slide 3 more times. There are other rides like a ferris wheel, a bouncy house and swings but Pearce loved the slide and used all his tickets on that. We were all getting hungry so we got some fudge and apples for a snack (there is kettle corn, hot dogs, carmel apples, fresh apple juice and cider) Lastly I had to get a pic of the sea of pumpkins I already have my pumpkins so we didnt actually buy one but instead we went for all the festivities It was beautiful and the weather was perfect.

Beautiful Mama!

2008-09-30T16:53:00.000-07:00

This is what I was up to yesterday....
I was looking at craigslist which I do on a daily basis. Always looking for baby stuff crib, changing table or I'm the one selling items. Whatever I feel like doing at that moment. Anyways so last week I saw an ad for a pregnant model and I thought to myself why not. So I sent Angi an email and yesterday Angi came over to my house and took pics. We had a lot of fun. This is only a sneak peek. There are tons more and I'm sure I'll be posting them as soon as I get them.

http://www.capturedbyangi.com

32 weeks

2008-09-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

only 56 days left but who's counting...

Here is a current look at the growing belly

and NO that is not a basketball stuffed under my shirt...lol

Deja'vu

2008-09-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

What an interesting night friday was... maybe even a little ironic or a moment of deja'vu.

When I was pregnant with Mikaila two months before I was suppose to have her Mikael was playing softball and was running for the ball, not paying attention to where he was running broke his ankle in a huge hole in the ground. We ended up spending most of the night in the hospital getting him fixed up. The next day we were suppose to be going to Bend, OR for a tournament but ended up staying home.

Well Friday night Mikael thought he'd like to reinact that night...I guess.
He was playing softball once again and being Mikael was diving for home when he collided with the catchers knee. I drove him to the hospital to find out he had broken 3 of his ribs. Once again I am pregnant and am due in two months. Also the other coincidence we were suppose to go to Bend, OR the next day for a wedding.

The bad thing is there is absolutely nothing you can do for broken ribs except pain killers and rest. Poor guy. He has been informed that if we decided to have more children he will not be playing softball two months before I am due and no trips to Bend either!

Yes that's MY husband!!!

2008-09-11T21:10:00.000-07:00

I have to admit my husband is a little OCD maybe even to the point of crazy. But when he is determined to do something let me tell you he never gives up and he gives it his all. Mikael has been training since May 2008 to do triathlons. I mean triathlons just seem like the next step after his 12,000 mile bicycle ride last year right?! He has now accomplished one sprint distance, one olympic distance and now two half Ironman's. We just got back from Santa Cruz, CA Tuesday morning after traveling there for his latest Triathlon, The Big Kahuna. Now I think just finishing is a huge accomplishment but that is never enough for Mikael he wants to be the best (he's very competitive) Back in July he did his first half ironman in Lake Stevens, WA and finished in 5 hrs 55min. Well, of course he wanted to do better this time and less then two months since the last one he finished in 5 hrs 23 min. AMAZING!! He came in 194 out 850 I couldn't be more proud of him!

Distance- 1.2 miles Time: 41:16.6

Distance- 56 miles Time: 2:35.08

Distance- 13.1 miles Time: 1:55.53

August 11-18

2008-08-26T16:13:00.001-07:00

We spent most of the last week doing random things together but mostly just hanging out with eachother.

Bailey loves to have a picnic so we packed up lunch and headed to the park. Only to die from the heat! So the next day we decided to go to the pool instead.

My mom had a great time playing ring around the rosy and motor boat, with the kids in the water. It was nice and refreshing after yestarday!

Mikaila's birthday isnt until the end of September but we decided to give her a prebirthday party. No birthday hat so we improvised with a halo very fitting for the little ANGEL

My dad even made a special trip down from Evanston, WY to see me. I thought this was a great pic of the two of us. Still Daddy's little girl

Then Monday the 18th Mikaila and me flew home. When I called Mikael that morning he told me I'd be so excited to come home it was 65 degrees and raining...I think I'd rather stay in UT where it's 95 degrees and sunny! Oh well we're back home and back to reality. 18 days on vacation was just what I needed. I definitly came home refreshed!

Utah August 1-10

2008-08-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

There is so much to write about and so many pictures to post that I am breaking it up into weeks. The first few days of our trip mainly consisted of visiting with family and friends. Then we had to get ready for our yearly camping trip. This year we went to Flaming Gorge. It's on the border of Utah and Wyoming. We havent been there in 4 years, we usually go to Bear Lake but thought we'd go somewhere new this year. I have decided never again will I go to Flaming Gorge! Everytime and I seriously mean everytime we go there it is horrible weather conditions and this year proved to be no different. It was raining when we arrived on Thursday so we had to set up camp in the rain. But that didn't stop Mikaila as soon as she got out of the car and saw the lake she was so excited she kept yelling, " Mommy pool,pool!" This child LOVES water! I put a sweatshirt on to keep her warm and the next thing I knew there she was in the lake soaking wet.

Friday it was warm and nice in the morning til about 2 and then rolled in the clouds and by 3 it was a major downpour for about an hour and a half. Then cleared and was a nice evening.
My mom's boyfriend, Dan built a fire and boy was it colorful. He puts a copper pipe with hose stuffed into it in the fire and the colors are AMAZING!!

Saturday once again was beautiful in the morning we went for a ride on the boat so pretty.

But again by 2 the clouds rolled in it didnt start raining but it was WINDY it blew so hard my tent blew away in the dark. No Joke! It was so windy I didnt want to sleep in the tent by myself with Mikaila so we bundled in with my brother and his family in their tent. As soon as I got all my stuff out of the tent it was gone. It was ripped from the ground into the air I could've been like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz! Although Mikael's reassures me it wouldn't have blown away if I was in it but still...
Sunday morning was calm and partly nice we were able to play for a little bit and get packed up before the clouds and rain rolled in again. Mikaila loved riding on the sea doo here is Damma (Grandma) and her on a ride. She loved to go fast, she would hold her arms out like she was flying. My wild child!

All in all we had a fun time but the weather just sucked! Good thing my family is so much fun to be around and go camping with! ;)

Love you all,
Rhett, Shelly, Brock, Bailey, My mom, Dan, Wade and Jamie

Utah here we come!!!

2008-07-31T22:44:00.001-07:00

In 6 hours I will be getting up to go to the airport. Utah here we come! Mikaila and me are leaving to go visit my family and friends for 17ish days. We are both really excited we havent seen my family since Christmas. 8 months is along time. Mikaila has changed so much so I'm especially excited for them to see how big she has gotten.
I've been teasing Mikael that I may not return. I only bought I one way ticket because he was going to drive down the second week I'm there and spend time with us and then drive us back. But since gas is so expensive it's much cheaper for me to buy a ticket home especially since Mikaila still flys free for 2 more months. He's going to be so LUCKY if we come back...lol...;) Only kidding we'll be back. I'd miss him way to much to stay away for too long!

From eggs...to birds

2008-07-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Mikaila and I discovered this on the side of my house.
I've seen many nests in my life time but never one so low that I could peek in whenever I wanted.

A few days later these had appeared

And then they hatched, three little naked babies with their eyes closed were sleeping the the nest.

Now they are starting to grow feathers and their eyes are open

I know by the time I get back from Utah they will have flown the coop but it was fun to watch them grow. Isn't life amazing!!

Cascade Locks

2008-07-25T13:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we loaded up the trailer and went camping at the KOA in Cascade Locks. I love camping and getting away so I was excited to go. Mikael on the other hand does not enjoy camping or really being away from home because it messes up his training schedule but being such a good supporter he suffered through three days and two nights of hell for me. We went with another couple friends of Mikael's from high school and their daughter who is 4 months younger than Mikaila. Two babies in one trailer was a nightmare. Sadly to say we won't be going camping again with them anytime soon. Too many nightmares to list.
Fortunately I did get some cute pics of Mikael and Mikaila playing in the pool

This picture is so funny. They both look like their eyes are cross-eyed

We stopped at Multnomah Falls on the way home so Mikaila could see the HUGE waterfall. She was so excited and kept ooooohing and aaaaahing. It was really cute

What type of fruit are you?...

2008-07-21T21:11:00.001-07:00

You Are a Strawberry

You are friendly, outgoing, and well liked by many people.

You are popular, but there's nothing you ordinary or average about you.

You a very interesting person, and you have many facets to your personality.

Sometimes you feel very conflicted. Your different sides of your personality pull at you.

You are a very sensual and passionate person. You are fiery... you can't help it.

In general, you keep your passionate side under wraps. You are only wild in private.

What Type of Fruit Are You?

Mosaic of Me

2008-07-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from Darilyns blog and thought it'd be fun to see what I would come up with for myself.

Questions:

1. What is your first name? Amanda, when I saw this pic I thought it was perfect. Pregnant on the beach too bad she doesnt have red hair.

2. What is your favorite food? Italian, it really doesnt matter what it is. If it has noodles and sauce I'll eat it!

3. What high school did you go to? Bingham High School, West Jordan UT. Sadly I couldn't find a pic of my high school on flickr so this is a pic of the Salt Lake valley at night. I just thought it was a great pic, so it works

4. What is your favorite color? Pink, I LOVE the color pink. I love everything about it. I thought this was a great picture too with the flowers and the sky.

5. Who is your celebrity crush? Matthew McConaughey, need I say more, really. This isnt the best pic because it doesnt show his face. It got cut off some how but who cares with a bod like that!!

6. What is your favorite drink? Strawberry Lemonade, My favorite is from Red Robin because they put in chunks of strawberries in it to make it that much better. YUMMY

7. What is your dream vacation? Going anywhere tropical or that looks like this is my dream spot. Bora Bora, Carribean, Figi just to name a few

8. What is your favorite dessert? Chocolate Cake is my favorite hands down. Everytime I order dessert from a restaurant it is Chocolate Cake. This piece in the picture is a little small for my liking but you get the idea

9. What did you want to be when you grow up? For those who don't know I have a slight foot fetish you could say. I love giving and recieving Pedicures. So my ideal job is to one day have a salon/spa in my home where clients can come and get hair/nails/skin treatments from me.

10. What do you love most in life? My family, I love this picture of the tiny baby foot cradled in the mothers hands. Something so delicate that needs so much love. I truly LOVE being a mommy and wife.

11. What is one word that describes you? FUN- I love the kids doing handstands on the beach. I hope my kids will think they have a FUN mom who loves doing stuff with them

12. What is your nick name? Mandy- I chose this pic of the dog because I'm also a dog lover.

credit goes to the following pictures from Flickr:
1. Ansiedade..., 2. Spaghetti in Tomato Cream Sauce, 3. N01-7196, 4. Sunny Side Up, 5. matthew mcconaughey, 6. strawberry lemonade, 7. It's breathtaking!, 8. coffee and chocolate mousse cake, 9. Day 235/365, 10. daffodil, 11. Of Earth And Sea And The Oceans Free, 12. does this shot make my nose too big?

More Please....

2008-07-13T09:36:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has been around Mikaila knows this child LOVES her chocolate. I use it all the time to bribe her to do something she doesnt want to do. Like eat her dinner or clean up her toys, sit on the potty, whatever it may be. So one day after bribing her to eat her lunch I gave her some chocolate and her expressions were so darn cute I had to post them.

I asked her what she was eating and see shut her eyes and threw her head back, it was really funny

showing me her yummy chocolate...in her mouth

she is signing MORE in this pic.

She is never satified with just one piece ;)

21 weeks

2008-07-05T19:45:00.001-07:00

Look at that sweet innocent face in the corner, I couldn't crop her out even though her hair is crazy

So here is the next belly picture. It's definitly poking out there. I had a dr's appointment last Wed. and he looks great!
My doctor asked if I was working out and if I'm eating healthy. What kind of questions are these? So I answer yeah I walk a few times a week (I guess I should do more) and I eat fairly well. Fruits, veggies, whole grains, protein...the occasional ice cream or candy (whatever) well she says your weight has gone up a lot since your last appoint. 6 weeks ago. I'm thinking who stinkin cares, I've only gained 9 pounds so far, thank you very much!!!So the rest of the night I was extremly self conscious about everything I ate. I kept asking Mikael if I'm too fat, am I getting LARGE ? Of course he is well trained in this department and kept telling me I am beautiful and that I'm pregnant, that I'm suppose to gain weight... blah blah blah (stroking my self esteem)
Stupid Doctor stressing me out like that... I think I need a bowl of ice cream!!

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-05T19:43:00.001-07:00

We hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July!!
We had a bbq with some friends and then headed home for fireworks. Unfortunately Mikaila was too tired and too scared to stay up so I put her to bed and after the first one was lit. But we had a fun filled day!

Date Night...

2008-06-22T20:10:00.000-07:00

Mikael and me are getting good at making date night a regular thing. After Mikaila was born I forgot about me and I definitly forgot who Mikael and I were. All consumed by a new baby, our mariage was placed on hold. But we have been rekindling that love and finding more and more time for just us. We are trying to go out at least once a month if not more. So Friday night I had Becca (thanks a million)babysit Pearce and Mikaila and we went to dinner at P.F. Chang's a fabulous restaurant who has the best lettuce wraps ever!!! Then to a movie to see this...

Yes I was just as excited as Mikael to see this. One because I love Edward Norton and because I thought it just looked good. Luckily I was not disappointed. I really did enjoy it.
Not only did we have a wonderful night out but it was practically free. Thanks to Mikael's birthday being last week his mom gave us gift certificates to dinner and the movie. Gotta love that.

We saw the preview for this movie, Which comes out July 2. Which will be our next date night for sure! I can hardly wait to see this one. It looks so good, how could it not with Wil Smith in it right?!

Happy Belated Birthday Mikael

2008-06-19T21:31:00.000-07:00

So the reason this blog post is so late is because I forgot my camera the night we went out and our friends who were so smart and remembered theirs took pictures for us. But it has taken forever to get copies so I could do this post so here it is...
(Happy Birthday and Happy Fathers Day)

Happy Birthday to my wonderful and understanding Hubby!!
Thank you for putting up with me and taking care of me the last few months when I was sick on the floor and for being such a wonderful father to Mikaila and Pearce. I know what a wonderful daddy you are and how GREAT your going to be with our new baby boy on the way.
June 12, 2008

We went to dinner at Portland City Grill. What amazing views of the city. Sorry I don't have any of them. But it really was Beautiful!!

Our Friends Tony and Lori who were great company

If you haven't been to Portland City Grill I highly recommend it. It was amazing food and a great atmosphere. Located on the 30th floor. The bar area is extremely comfortable with couches and a pianist. But they also have a dinnette area with table seating. You can see the views anywhere you sit. The food is a little on the pricey side but well worth it!

Happy 34 Sweetie, I love you!

And.....

2008-06-18T20:50:00.000-07:00

MyHotComments

So I had my ultrasound this morning and we found out we are having a boy!! What on earth am I going to do with a boy? I am really so EXCITED!! Now that I know the sex of the baby I have to come up with a name. No waiting until the last minute. Any suggestions? What is an uncommon, solid name that goes well with Luman?

Tag....your it!

2008-06-11T08:04:00.000-07:00

I think this is a fun tag. It's just random stuff in your house that you would never show anyone but that's what makes it fun right? Here's your sneak peak into my crazy messy house!

This is my fridge the door doesnt stay open by itself so I had to use a model to hold the door open, say Hi Mikaila!

My sink, luckily I did the dishes last night and havent put any in it...yet

The best part of my closet is all my shoes and yes they are really lined up like that. Anyone know of a great way to organize them, I'd really love to know!

The potty, nothing too exciting here, thankfully no surprises!

My messiest part of my house now by the end of the day it will no longer look like this. I have laundry to do...

What Mikaila is doing right this moment. Yep that's her bum hanging out of her pj's. She decided it was time to change her diaper. I better get on that before we have an accident on the floor

My favorite pair of shoes right now. Normally they would flip flops by now but since the weather is so wonderful. It's these Mudd shoes I have three pairs. Tan, Black and Brown. I love them!

My favorite room in my house is my master bath because it has this tub!! I LOVE this tub and would probably wither up and die without it!

Here's is a great self portrait I took of myself. It hasn't rained so I was finally able to staighten my hair, but I actually like it better curly just needed a change

And lastly where I would like to be right now....anywhere that looks like this! This is Waikiki Hawaii from our trip last June, wish we were going again this year. Oh well, at least I have pics

I'm tagging Ciara, Misa, Bridget Raleigh and Amy

Twilight

2008-06-08T08:56:00.000-07:00

I have heard from several friends about the series of books from Stephenie Meyer starting with Twilight so I started reading it while I was sick on the floor. Once I started I was unable to put it down. This is definitly one of those books I never want to end. I love the story and the characters. Then to find out they are making a movie about this. Even Better!! It comes out 12-12-08. I have finished all three books and the fourth is coming out in August I can hardly wait.

On the other hand this is her latest book "The Host"which is geared more for adults. But I am having the hardest time getting into this book. Every time I pick it up and try to read it, I read one chapter and then put it down and read something else. I don't know if I'll ever read this book. I have heard if you can get through 100 pages then it gets better, but I can't make it that far to find out.

16 weeks

2008-06-02T14:05:00.000-07:00

Here is the first picture of the baby bump. I can't believe my stomach is already this HUGE!! I have gained 4 pounds, which I am very happy with so far. I only gained 19 pounds with Mikaila but I have a feeling I'm going to gain more with this pregnancy. Oh well! I have been feeling much better. I havent taken the zofran for 4 days now. WHOO HOO!!! I still feel nauseas every once in awhile but nothing like I was.
I have made a goal for myself to start exercising three days a week. Saturday (thanks Bridget) and today I went for a walk up and around my neighborhood. It felt GREAT! My next Dr. appt. is on June 18th that's when we find out the sex. I'll keep you posted...

Where the Wild Things are

2008-05-28T20:54:00.000-07:00

Growing up in the subburbs of Utah not too many wild creatures walked through our yard. You may have birds, a squirrel maybe a chipmunk. If you live on the benches you may even see a deer. But I have seen the most bizzare animals since I have lived in Oregon and all of them I have seen either in my yard or across the street. Of course I have seen the usual bird and squirrel but...last summer while sitting in the exact same spot I am now, at my computer, I looked up to see a peacock strolling down my driveway. Then two months ago I ran outside at night to throw something in the garbage, I look and see this thing which I am assuming is Chloe running across the street. So I start yelling "Chloe come back" when it turns around and looks at me it is a huge racoon and not Chloe! I couldnt believe it. Then two days ago we woke to a deer eating the neighbors bushes. Mikaila and I went outside so she could get a better look before it ran away behind the neighbors house. And finally last night I let Chloe out to go potty and she is barking like crazy so I run out to see what she sees and it was a coyote!! Yes a coyote I even had Mikael come verify for me. It was running along the fence and couldnt get into the trees to hide. We can't wait to see what ventures into our yard next! Unfortunately I never have my camera readily available to snap a shot so here's a picture of Chloe. She is such a good dog!

Blue Lake

2008-05-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

When I first moved here Mikael and me went everywhere. We went to the Coast several times, Multnomah Falls several times, Seaside, Astoria. We traveled all the time Hawaii, Texas, Arizona and Utah. But it seems like we have been in a rut. I havent been to the Coast in 3 yrs now. So we've decided we need to get out more and explore Oregon like we used to. So Saturday we went to Blue Lake with my our friends Matt and Stacy they just moved here from CA in December. This was my first time out to Blue Lake and although it was a sea of people, it was a lot of fun. It was so warm I had to get in the water to cool off.
We were able to go without children, Nana watched Mikaila for us for the day and Pearce went to a birthday party that Papa took him too. Family is the best!! It was so relaxing not to have to chase them around and just relax with friends and my hubby. But next time we go we'll take the kids the entire time I kept thinking Mikaila would have a lot of fun here in the water and playing at the park. Silly how that works.

Fun in the Sun

2008-05-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

The weather in Oregon has been AWESOME the last two days so far. It is going to be great for the next three days until the 60's return. But we are taking full advantage of the sun and warmth while we have it!!
Thursday I spent the day in the yard planting flowers. That was my mothers day present. I wanted flowers to make my yard look pretty and I think it definitely helps. I havent been in the sun in so long I got a little burnt on my shoulders but nothing a little aloe vera won't cure.

Today (Friday) we met some friends at the Beaverton Library Park. Mikaila loves the water so I knew she'd love the fountains and she did. I couldn't keep her out of there.
Mikaila is quite the social butterfly and will walk up to anyone and ask for food or to pet their dog. This child does not know a stranger. Which is good and bad. She doesnt realize not everything is hers and not everyone wants to share. Fortunatley she is really cute and nobody seems to mind. At least that's what they tell me.
After we went to the track meet at Jesuit High School. Mikael has been doing a lot of speaking lately at Aloha High School. Talking to the track, tennis and all the health classes. He has been able to get to know a lot of the students there and since he went to Aloha I think he feels a connection. So we went to the track meet. We watched Derrick Barfus run the 110m hurdles and he won! He did an awesome job! I'm sure his family was very proud of him.

I love this picture. I took this on our way to the track meet, just before we left our house.

Mikaila showing off her girlish figure

Splish Splash

Sleeping Beauty

Whats been going on....

2008-05-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

I havent blogged in awhile. I just havent felt up to it. But times they are a changing. The nausea is starting to subside (thank goodness) so here's whats been happening in our neck of the woods.

Mikaila is now sleeping in a big girl bed. She has proven to be quite the little monkey so at 19 months we switched her to this. We're still adjusting but she didnt cry at all last night when I put her to bed, shut the door and locked it. Yes she can climb over the gate as well. So we installed a lock on her door.

Shelly taught me how to crochet when I was in utah this past fall. I started making this for Mikaila back in October and have just completed it. FINALLY!! I have made several hats this past winter but who knew blankets were so hard and took so long. But I am very pleased with the outcome for my first one.

Monday was a beautiful day so we headed to the duck park for a picnic and fun in the sun!!

While I was trying to get ready Mikaila decided it would be fun to put on mommy's makeup and then eat it. When I took her picture she winked at me. Mikael taught her how to wink a few weeks ago, she thinks it is sooooo cute....and so do I!

What the PUKE?!!

2008-04-24T16:24:00.000-07:00

I havent died or anything but somedays it feels like it. I have been extremely sick. I knew I would be. I was sick with Mikaila but last time I didnt have a 19 month old running around the house. This time it seems much worse. Two week ago I had to go to the hospital and have iv's of fluid because I was so dehydrated and now I am on Zofran the cadillac of anti nausea/vomiting medication (they give this to chemo patients for heaven sake) It works Great with the vomiting but the nausea is still here, somedays it is too much to bear. Most days you will find me curled up on the floor of the playroom in my pjs. You will most definitly find Mikaila somewhere in the house, running crazy or watching Barney over and over and over again. But hey only 3-4 more weeks of this (fingers crossed) and we are in the second trimester. I can see the light at the end of my dark, dark tunnel.

Is that a thermometer?

2008-04-08T12:57:00.000-07:00

Mikael thought this was a thermometer I had left out on the counter. Well, if it is...it just told me I'm PREGNANT!! Yup you read me right. Pregnant. A few posts back you might recall me mentioning being baby hungry and planning on getting pregnant this summer. Well summer came early in our household. A few weeks ago I thought I had the flu. Tired, achy, headaches. And then the nausea started and I knew something wasnt right. So I decided I better take a test and it was positive. I have to admit I wasnt overly thrilled at first I mean come on I am competing in my first mini triathlon in May. But the show must go on and with Mahina on board to bike for me, I will still compete. Throw up and all! I cant wait for the first trimester to be over. Laying around in my pjs all day might be fun for some but not this Mom.
We went to our first Doctor appointment yestarday and had an ultrasound. It official it really is in there, beating heart and all. (no Mikael I'm not faking)
The shock has worn off and I'm really getting excited, now only 32 more weeks to go!
The baby is due November 14th 2008

Easter Weekend

2008-03-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

I am way behind posting this but if I dont now then I never will and as you know I love posting pictures of Mikaila.
Saturday we attended the Hazeldale Easter Egg hunt. So FUN! Honestly this was the first time I've ever been to an easter egg hunt that wasnt at my house. Mikaila caught on really quick what was inside those eggs. I've created a MONSTER!! She loves her chocolate (just like her mommy)

Easter Pictures

2008-03-20T08:48:00.001-07:00

Mikaila is such a little ham...she loves the camera

Becoming such a little lady

My favorite by far!! Just ignore the bruises on her shins...

I took Mikaila on Monday to get her Easter Pictures done at Image Express at Cedar Hills Mall. They do such a good job. Their quick and cheap which are just two reasons we love going there!

Lost and Found

2008-03-08T08:08:00.000-08:00

What I thought was lost and is now found. This truly is the best product in the world. Several months ago I was able to buy this almost anywhere. Well one day I went to pick up some more from the grocery store but it was never to be found again. I searched everywhere I could think of. Albertsons, Fred Meyers, Thriftway even Winco. I even tried to search for it in Utah, Indiana, New Jersey and South Carolina. But I was unlucky. Where oh where did this wonderful stuff go?....Haagens of all places. That's right just recently when I returned back to Oregon I needed to pick up something and the closest grocery store was Haagens. I went down the baking isle and there it was. On the top shelf. It was like the light from Heaven was shining on it, in all it's glory. The search was over!!

Now you may be wondering why this is so glorious. Well, let me tell you. First of all it is FAT FREE! Also a butter and oil replacement. So when baking cakes, cookies, brownies no yucky, fattening, butter or oil is used in your baked goods. Making then seem just that more healthy right? Also it makes them soft and gooey! DELIOUS!! If you havent tried this I recommend that you do. It's even better then applesauce! And believe me it's worth the trek to Haagens just pick a jar or two up!

Happy Birthday Pearce!!

2008-03-05T20:43:00.000-08:00

Today was Pearce's birthday and he is turning 8 years old. This is a picture of his moms parents Grandma Kumyon (sitting) Grandpa Jerry, his mom Cathy, Pearce, Mikaila and me. Mikael is taking the picture. We went to his school at Life Christian and celebrated his birthday with his 2nd grade class. We took cupcakes and balloons for all the students. Pearce was excited to show off his little sister to his friends.

Happy Birthday Pearce, we love you!

First haircut?

2008-03-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

Ok does a bang trim count as a first haircut? Well it was her first time getting her haircut in a salon anyways. So I've heard of this new place called Pigtails and Crew Cuts, at streets of Tanasbourne. After Mahinas adventure getting Kawena's bangs cut (baby locks)I thought I should check this place out. SO cute. They have a fire engine, taxi or airplane they can sit in. They can watch a movie or play video games. All while the stylist frantically cuts their hair. (frantically with Mikaila because no matter how entertained she is she can not possible sit still long enough) I was so excited for her to sit in the chair with the cape wrapped around her. I got out my camera to take the picture and nothing. My camera was dead. I forgot to charge the battery, stupid me. All morning I had this whisper in my ear telling me to charge the battery and I chose to ignore it. So thinking quickly I grabbed Mikaels cell which honestly takes the worst pictures ever. I email them to myself and sadly can not post them because they are not a jped or gif?? Whatever!

Other than the mishap with the camera she did GREAT! I would recommend this place to anyone good prices and super cute to boot!!

http://www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/

and the anniversary continues...

2008-02-23T20:57:00.000-08:00

well since our anniversary was on a Tuesday we decided to go out tonight. Of course we waited until today to make a reservation for dinner so we ended up with our reservation at 4:15. Maybe your thinking why make a reservation well, if you've ever gone to dinner with Mikael then you know he hates to wait. So making the reservation saves him of having to wait. So we went to dinner at Claim Jumper. I new restaurant that just opened a few months ago at Bridgeport. YUMMY!!! excellent food! We had Calamari for an appetizer and steaks for dinner and brought home the bread pudding! Delicious we will definitly go back! After we went to Club Tan. They had an event going on tonight were you could try several of the spa treatments so Mikael and I both had microdermabrasion, lumicell and photo facials. I would do the microdermabrasion again my face feels so soft and wonderful. The other two were just ok. Mikaels mom was so nice to watch Pearce and Mikaila for us. So we could have a night out! Honestly two weekends in a row with a babysitter, I could get used to this!

This picture is actually of from our engagement pics but its my favorite and we didnt take any pictures tonight.

Happy Anniversary

2008-02-19T15:25:00.001-08:00

I can't believe how fast 3 years have flown by. I really feel very blessed in my life and love the man I am married to with all of my heart. He surely isnt perfect but who is. He's perfect for me!! Since our anniversary fell on a tuesday we decided to celebrate on saturday so more to come...

Love is in the air...

2008-02-14T22:09:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day? Who invented this holiday anyway? And why do we celebrate it? These are the questions I was asked this morning by Pearce my stepson. Honestly, I told him, I have no idea. But it must have been a woman.
Before Mikael left to take Pearce to school he told me my present was hidden in the house and I had to find it. Since I know my husband so well, I said okay and after he left proceeded to eat breakfast and clean up the kitchen. When he came home I heard the garage open then close and he entered in through the front door. Honey, he calls, did you look in the garage for your present. HA HA so I looked in the garage and there was a bouquet of red roses. The perfect gift. That's all I wanted and needed. Just a little token of love and appreciation.
We ended up spending the day together. We went to lunch with a group of his friends from high school that were in town. And that evening I made a nice dinner (stuffed pork chops, with twice baked potatoes, green beans, rolls and dessert bread pudding with a vanilla sauce) YUMMY. After Mikaila went to bed we watched Pirates of the Carribean and went to bed. Perfect ending to a perfect day.

Where's the baby???

2008-02-07T09:57:00.000-08:00

This is Mikaila's favorite game to play. If anyone says, where's the baby, she runs off to hide in a cupboard. This is where I found her this morning...

WHERE'S THE BABY...

THERE SHE IS

Silly girl, but she definitely makes life FUN!!

Family Pic

2008-02-02T22:04:00.000-08:00

So I thought it would be a great idea to take a family photo out in front of our house with the fresh fallen snow. Honestly, I had good intentions. I thought it's be nice to include some of the other members of my family (Mikael and Pearce) on my blog since it usually consists of Mikaila and me. So after dragging Mikael outside to play in the snow. I set up the camera for our pic. Now you may be wondering why Pearce looks so funny. Well he thought it would be a good idea to throw a snowball right when the picture was about to be taken. In my head I'm thinking this is a horrible plan and am about to say, don't you dare throw that, when he does the picture is taken and smash the snowball slams right into the camera knocking it over. He hit the camera dead on! Thank goodness there wasnt a picture for the scene that took place next. It was not my finest moment. Luckily I ran inside and quickly took a blowdryer to it and yes it still works. At least the picture still turned out right?...

what I loved about today...

2008-01-28T23:46:00.000-08:00

1. Freshly fallen snow

2. the smell of cookies baking in the oven

3. Mikaila taking a 3 hour nap

4. a clean house

5. time to scrapbook

6. an unexpected phone call from my mom

7. a warm bath

Snow Day!!

2008-01-28T22:45:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful morning this has been. I love the trees after snow has just fallen, all covered in white. Takes my breath away!

This is a picture looking out my front door to the green area to my left. So pretty

The neighborhood kids sure had a fun day today, sledding down the hill! I was jealous I wanted to do it too! They go so fast!!

Mikaila was a little unsure of the snow, and she was not going to wear her gloves for nothing no matter how much I told her she needed them her little fingers would freeze. At least she kept the hat on...

I just have to say I wish I grew up in Oregon. I never had a snow day like this! Maybe because school was never cancelled. How lucky for Mikaila it snows 3 inches and school is closed that would have been great! Although living in my neighborhood I now know why. It is just not safe to drive around here. But I really do love waking up to fresh snow on the ground. It makes me miss Utah. But we had an exciting morning watching all the neighborhood kids sled down the hill.

Be careful!

2008-01-28T11:52:00.000-08:00

So you may know the hill in my neighborhood is quite slippery when it snows and the children sledding down it, packing the snow, probably doesnt help much for those that try to venture from their house and drive down it.
Well today was no different then any other. It snowed and the children went sledding and yes cars, suvs, trucks made attempts to drive down the slick hill. Today while I was out with Mikaila playing in the snow here comes a Porsche Cayenne down the hill out of control. Sliding side ways down the steep hill until it slammed into the guard rail and then bounced off. The driver parked the suv and had to walk back up the hill to his house.
To the right are the skid marks from his suv from slamming into the guard rail and below...

The damage done to his car. It's hard to tell in this picure but the front panel has a huge dent by the tire with scratches along the passenger door and back door and the bumper detached from the body of the suv.

I felt really bad for my neighbor. It was really scary to watch. I was just glad nobody was hurt. But that's going to be a pricey fix. Just glad it wasn't me!

Guiltless Pleasure

2008-01-23T22:46:00.000-08:00

This is a receipe I got from my friend Megan. I made these while I was visiting Utah. These cookies are super easy and delicious to boot! I made them for Mikael to see what he thought and he ate a dozen in one sitting. You definitely can't eat just one!!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 box spice cake mix

1 large can pumpkin

1 bag of milk chocolate chips

Mix together, place on cookie sheet at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

Makes 3 1/2 dozen

Each cookie contains approx. 92 calories and 3 grams of fat. Not too shappy if eaten in moderation!

That's it. No oil, butter or eggs. I think these cookies are even better after they've cooled. Hope you enjoy!

It's that time of year...again!

2008-01-12T21:40:00.000-08:00

So I've been thinking long and hard this year about my New Year's Resolutions. Mine never start on January 1st. Usually because some kind of eating healthy or working out resolution is involved and my birthday is the 6th and I know I'll be eating cake then there are the leftovers and I'm way to tired after the holidays to be going to the gym. So sometime around mid January no later then February do I really take them serious. I'm not sure why I make New Year's Resolutions in the first place. But just like my Dream board I like making a list and being able to mark things off as I get them accomplished. So here it goes...

1. Of course this is always a priority and something that definitely needs improvement. My eating and exercising habits, which honestly haven't been very good in the past few months. Blame it on the holidays, stress, whatever. So making better food choices (Mahina maybe you can give me some of your will-power) and exercising more or at least at all, 3 days a week that is my goal!!

2. Spending more one on one time with my husband. During Christmas we went to see National Treasurer by ourselves, no baby attached. Wonderful!! We haven't done that since I was pregnant over 15 months ago!! So this area is in major need of improvement!!!

3. Finding time for...ME! That's right, I would like a little me time every once in awhile. The last 15 months have consisted of Mikaila and Mikael but no Mandy. So a little self soul searching needs to happen (maybe I'll find my fitness again in the search)

4. Compete in a mini triathlon. I am going to sign up for one in June so I better get training (Bridget, Mahina, Rachael anyone... please I may need your help with this one...swimming tips or a partner at the gym would be great!)

5. Getting Pregnant! Okay I know how to get pregnant but I don't want to until after my triathlon. But this summer would be perfect!

6. Making it to church would be a nice start but I want to be there for the entire 3 hours. So hopefully now that it's at 1pm you will see me there! Although that is right in the middle of Mikaila's nap...again! Oh well, it's only one day a week.

Honestly, I think I could go on forever. There are so many areas in my life that I think need improvement. But I'll just stop there before I get to out of control I'll never live up to my list. Good Luck to everyone who makes New Year's Resolutions!!