Thanksgiving 2011

2011 was the least chaotic year out of the last 12 or 13 years.  Instead of doing both families on one day, we were able to do both over two days.  Tuesday night we headed out to Corona, late that evening, to break up our Wednesday drive to Fallbrook, CA.  Of course, as we're walking out the door, Andi dropped my favorite nail polish on the tile - splatter.  Because yes, every 2.5 year old must bring nail polish so they're nails look just right for Thanksgiving!

Wednesday morning Juana did the kids' hair while I did my own.  Finally, we were off - oh wait, we did make three stops on the way there.  Of course.

Once we arrived at Dale's, Cole and Weston were ready for some lunch.  Ito packed up some avocados for us and so the boys dug in.

The majority of our time was spent outside swinging, running, or playing with the animals.

Annette, Tori, Shay and I had to run to Walmart; for hours!  Upon our return, we all got ready for dinner.  We also took this time to celebrate Weston's 1st bday.  We weren't able to stay for his cake that night but we hope when he hears our voices reading this book, he'll learn who we are and that we love him.

 Of course, we had to attempt a group shot because most everyone was there.  I think we really need a professional one of these days!  Oh, and coordinating outfits.  Oh, and children not looking like rag dolls :)  Yes, mine.

This is the point where our children lost it.  Ryan, Andi and Cole all wanted to go to sleep.   Jackson did too but he would never admit that :)  Three were asleep before we even left the driveway.  Jackson followed shortly after.  It took us two hours to get home and we were so grateful.  After unloading us all, Andrew took off to the grocery store to get ingredients for Thanksgiving desserts.  I went to bed.  The man is crazy I tell ya.

Thursday morning, Thanksgiving, Andi kept telling the boys, "Look at me boys.  Look at me!"  I love that she wants the approval and admiration of her brothers.

 Once Andrew returned from the Turkey Bowl, we tried to pack up and head out as quickly as possible.  Yet, we still made it to my parent's house at 12:15 - 15 minutes late.  Nonetheless, it was fabulous seeing everyone because we hadn't all been together since my dad's birthday, but that was chaotic.  And before that was Easter.

 Many insisted on "the hike".  It was cute that Marci and others even made sure to bring a change of shoes for this hike.  Honestly, after all we ate, it felt so good to get out there.  The kids struggled because they were so tired which meant, a few of us had to carry a child up and down.  Because of my obligation, I put Jackson in charge of the camera.  This went well until he couldn't make it up one steep hill and grandpa grandpa had to run up and rescue him.  The lens experienced a few injuries but Jackson was fine.  Phew!

We have been so blessed this year.  To be reminded over and over of all the love and support that surrounds you is really the most comforting feeling.  We are grateful for the love of God shown to us through those around us.  Happy Thanksgiving.

8.5mo.

News Flash:  We're still pretty obsessed with our scootin', straw sippin', avocado eatin', belly sleepin', medicine chuggin', chatter box.  He's such a happy boy, unless you bring food around him and you don't share.

Don't worry, we haven't completely neglected the "others".  Today Ry and Andi created a moment after they asked to leave music class and go home.  Strange considering they love staying for the parachute at the end.  Anyway, outside they were themselves, loving being with their best friend.

And Mr. Jackson made me so happy this evening.  After dinner Andrew headed over to Dick's with Wes Pollard to gather needed supplies for the Turkey Bowl (I'm pretty sure Wes would have supported this outing :)) so I had to take the kids home and put them to bed.  Not always a fun task an hour past bedtime.  In the car, I told Jackson I had to get in the house, change Cole and put him to bed so I needed him to get everyone else's pj's.  He of course replied, "Got it".  Once Cole was in bed, I came out to find Jackson working on the fire.  I love it when he steps up to the plate to be the "man of the house".

Wesley

All I could think was, "Why is Andrew calling me so early?"  I mean typically I would have finished getting ready, after all, I had just walked out of the shower, but I chose to pick it up.  He was so weird.  Why was he asking if I had spoken to Shay?  And then, he lost it.  "I think Wes is dead!".  No, what.  What was he thinking?  Once I hung up the phone, I fell to my knees.  I began a prayer, but couldn't finish it.  It was ridiculous.  I didn't need to because let's face it, it was Wes.  He was going to be fine.  He had to be fine.

The day before, Wes called me just to chat.  I remember talking about school, Paige, Andrew, life.  But just incomplete thoughts are all I have left of that conversation.  He had called Andrew that night to tell him how excited he was to graduate soon and apply for Chiro. school.  How could this be.

I made Andrew come home and I am glad he did.  Soon after walking into our room, he received the final call.  He collapsed on the bed.  I can still see it.  I can still feel it.

Four years ago today, we had plans for Thanksgiving.  They quickly changed.  I remember walking into the Anderson home, Cosmo running down the stairs and into my arms crying out, "I'm so sorry.  I don't know what to do."  As I sit here looking at the clock, I am thinking that at this point, where were piled in an RV: Cosmo, Annette, Tori, Ivan, Mya, Zoe, Chris, Andrew, me, Jackson, and (Ryan in my belly).  We laughed, cried, reminisced, pondered, reflected, prayed, CRIED.  In Vegas, I believe, Cosmo and I were outside getting gas.  He asked, "What do I do?"  I can still feel that as well.

Wes was the glue.  Wes was my buddy and one of Andrew's best friends.  We used to call Wes our son because when he lived with us, he would seriously call to see what's for dinner.  He tagged along wherever we went.  He even tagged along on our anniversary.  But we loved him.  We couldn't get rid of him :)  I remember a time I thought he almost got rid of me!  We were driving home from school and he took his truck (Sean Maloney's old truck) through that gigantic dip on Banson.  Well after a good rain, that dip turned into a pool.  I thought that was the end of our lives.  But that sparks another near death experience.  Wes and I decided to race from from Seminary.  He took Ave. V and Ricky and I took Red Rover.  I saw Wes coming and I hit it hard, in the Firebird.  On a bend.  Not a good idea.  Once I got the car straightened out again, Ricky and I just looked at each other, hugged amidst the violent shakes, and said "I love you".  And yes, I blame it all on Wes :)

(*because I lost all my pictures since 2005, this is what I could find on my blog.  But I guess the fact is, I could sit here and put up a million if I had the resources)

Four years.  Four years.  I sat down to write something completely different, but it is what it is.  Each year is slightly different.  This year there were many tears in the morning.  Then life carried on.  Tonight we spent time with family and friends.  We didn't dwell on Wes, but it felt good to be in company of those that loved him too.  We love you Wes.

Card Exchange

Before I left last night, about an hour before, Jackson disappointed me real bad.  So just before I walked out the door, Jackson asked where I was going.  While giving me a big 'ol hug, he said, "Mom, I hope you have a great time!" and then he patted my head.  His little brain was turning, that I could see; the result... "Hey guys, let's all tell mom something nice about her.  Oh, and let's all make a card for mom."  Yes, this is my little man, the one that hates to disappoint me and will go to great lengths to try to make me pleased with him yet again.

Thank You cards were our assignment for this month.  My sister-in-law Tristan allowed me to steal her "Thank Who?  Thank You!" idea and I ran with it.  It was fun really.  Jackson even wanted to help out and so we were able to put to use some Kindergarten skills together.

I in return received some fabulous cards I'll have to post at another time.  But seriously, these people are talented.  I had no idea this world existed.

But let's not forget last month: Birthday!

Because I don't have a silhouette or circuit, I have to handcut everything.  On my Christmas list this year... a SILHOUETTE (yep - cause I learned the difference last night!).  But this card was fun - cutting the cake and sewing on the button.

I am having a fabulous time hanging out with these girls, talking and learning new things.  I am grateful for a supportive husband because this week has brought three GNO's in a row - oh, and I made an escape Monday night as well.  A girls gotta do what a girls gotta do.

Friends

After dropping Ryan off at school, Andi proclaimed, "I want to go to Corinne's house."  Luckily for her, it was already planned for Corinne to come to our house.  It made me laugh because my kids have so grown to love socializing.  Wait, maybe saying they've "grown to love" it isn't accurate.  As far back as I can remember, they have enjoyed it.  As do we!

A friend is one with whom you are comfortable, to whom you are loyal, through whom you are blessed, and for whom you are grateful. - 

William Arthur Ward

Ractober - Mall Scavenger Hunt

Jackson walked in the door, saw me decked out in my 80"s attire and exclaimed, "Mom, you look awesome!".  I know son, I know :)

Michalle has often said she's not very good at planning things and/or organizing events.  Let me tell you, each time this girl does something, she does it well.  Michalle wanted to do a GNO for my birthday - but with a twist.  She gave me a few options and I chose MALL SCAVENGER HUNT.  I have fond memories from my Young Women's days and let me tell you, this new memory did not disappoint.  

To add to the festive mood of my 30th, Michalle encouraged us to dress from the 80's.  I did what I could with what was in my closet, but Jen checked out the mall and scored!  Lauren was a bit shocked when she met us for dinner (so sweet of her to do that considering she wasn't able to come out to the mall).

Find and take a picture:

store catalogue - fake tree - a chair - animal print - tie - pose w/mannequin - sparkly - map - tag - glasses - heels - all on escalator - gumball machine - kid ride - soda machine - directory - reading a book - tiara - star - lounging on a bench - posing w/Abercrombie poster - bra - pj's - something your grandma wouldn't want for Christmas - all in hats - hug a stranger (this was easy considering it was such a mixed group of friends but you never would have known this didn't know one another!!) - stuffed animals - game that begins with "Q" - undies - cool shirt - quarter - perfume - ugly prom dress

 My shades were $300 and I think it's safe to say they would be worth every penny!

Michalle is so very thoughtful; despite how much she thinks she isn't.  She remembered what I like and she made it all for that night.  Then she went out and got prizes or party favors for everyone that came.  And hello, "30 Sucks" dum dums - so cute.  We have been through a lot together and I am grateful for her unconditional love and loyalty.  

But that's not all, Michalle even made me a beanie because last year I missed out on a beanie from her... well, long story but my point is, again, so thoughtful - Thank You Michalle and all the girls that were able to make it.  I am grateful for each friendship and the efforts you put forth to come celebrate.  Haha, I know for most of you it was down to the wire - thank you, thank you.

I can't wait until we do it again.

Little Sister Gone Big

When it's just the three of us, Andi sets up to the plate.  Don't get me wrong, she takes charge even when the boys are here, but there's just something different in her demeanor when she's the big one.  She loves to feed Cole, or have little picnics all on her own.  She RUNS to get diapers or toys or anything else he needs.  Again, she will often do this when everyone is home, but there's just something else when they're not.  Maybe the way in which she carries herself?  Maybe more responsibility?  I don't know - but I love our time together.  "The babies" used to be Ryan and Andi ... now Andi and Cole.

Thank You Isn't Enough

When I get this feeling, I make grand plans in my mind to repay people.  The plans rarely evolve which is so very sad.  Sometime last week, Nikki had Andi over so I could get some rest.  After school, Andi showed up to Pinetree as girly as one could be.  And let me tell you, her face beamed with excitement.  This poor girl really is the product of a boy home - so when she gets the chance to be all girly, she's all over it.

Again, Nikki came to my rescue when I spoke of Cole wheezing this morning.  After school I dropped off the other three and took Cole in to the doctor.  Turns out he has an ear infection, AGAIN.  And yes, he too will now need breathing treatments.  Grrr.  I whined and the doctor told me, "I have three kids and all three have asthma too".  Fabulous - sometimes it just happens.  Oh well, I am grateful Nikki gave me that extra push to take him in.  I am grateful a few meds (Prednisolon, Augmenten, Budesonide & Albuterol - because amox. doesn't seem to cut it for Ry and Cole) will make him all better.  I am grateful for insurance.  I am grateful.  Honestly, I didn't think it'd be this - he has been FINE!  Stuffy nose and whinny but come on, he's getting two more teeth.  You just never know.  Hopefully we have a good night - not like the night Ryan had such a meltdown over dinner he couldn't even figure out "pants off or pants on".

But that night Cole was in heaven - he was so in love with the rice/chicken casserole I made.  Thank you Pinterest yet again!

Shopping Cart

Cole 2011 (8mo.)

 Jackson 2006 (5mo. maybe)

I received this cart cover thingamagig at one of my Jackson baby showers.  He used it ALWAYS.  Then Ryan came and was usually in the carseat.  When he sat in the cart, Jackson was usually with him.  Then Andi came and really, my point is, I am just now pulling this thing out again.  Cole began sitting up in the cart months ago but I just now found it.  He LOVED it.

Halloween Festivities

Friday night we went over to a friend's for some Halloween fun.  This was especially exciting for the kids because we missed our ward party.

2006 & 2008 flashback... OK wait, I totally thought Ryan wore the turtle as well.  But I guess it's just a flashback to 2006. *I was hoping to take a picture of them in the same pose, but I can't fine the one of Jackson on his belly and I didn't get one of Cole standing.  Grrrr - but I think the similarities are still rather apparent.  They're cheeks are chapped as well.

OK... 2011.... 

 Oh my I can never settle on one.

Check out Andi, one in each hand.  And Cole just took it all in whether he was sittin' in the car, on the floor, or in someone's arms.  Jackson was so very focused carving his pumpkin.  And I think Ryan was a bit disgusted by the insides of his pumpkin!

After the carving session, the kids rocked out in the garage.  No, really, they ROCKED OUT!

Monday morning Ryan had his preschool Halloween party.  Would you believe I showed up with a dying camera battery!?!?  I was so upset - but what do you do.  Is Grandma K not awesome!

(Ok, I'm back.  Somehow I got distracted in organizing my Primary folder.... random??  Yeah!)  

So, onto Halloween evening.  We were invited to the Wirthlin's in McMillan Ranch.  Andrew desperately wanted to host something because we so badly wanted to deck out the front porch and scare little children.  Being as insane as it has been, I decided we were not hosting but instead, simply showing up elsewhere.

It was fabulous if I do say so myself.  It was so nice to not be stressed out especially considering Andrew didn't get home until a half hour before we were expected to leave.  

For the kids, Andrew and I dressed up this year.  It was easy really considering we found our costumes from 1996!  I am rather annoyed though that I can't find that picture to post.  Hopefully I can add it later.  The main difference is this year we did not sport the black lipstick.

We had dinner with friends and family (my parents and Bri were able to join us!) and then we all headed out to begin the hunt.  At this point it became every many for himself but that was fine by us.  

Especially when Cole announced he was over it all and wanted to go to the car.  I do believe those were his exact words.  So while everyone else finished up, I headed back to the car with Cole.  He was perfectly content once inside with the light on - could he be afraid of the dark!?

It was a fabulous Halloween this year - my only regret was not getting a picture of Cole in a pumpkin (pinterest).  Maybe we can still do that this weekend???

**The moment that stands out to me was the chat Jackson and I had between houses.  He asked, "Mom, are you going to die?".  "Yes.  Everyone dies," I respond.  "When?  I don't want you to die.  Can you live a long, long time with me?".  To which I of course replied, "I sure hope so!"