BFF

When I got word the Wise's were headed to Anaheim in February, I knew there was no way I would miss the chance to visit with them.  But even more importantly, I knew there was no way I would miss my chance to meet Tatum!  The last time we saw one another, Jena and I were pregnant and now, Tatum is one and Cole is almost there.  Too long I tell ya!

So, I loaded up my fancy GPS and Andi and Ryan (because they wanted to go with me to "visit my friend") Friday morning.  Once I figured out how to get there, thanks for nothing "fancy yellow paper", we were all ready for lunch.  CPK seemed like our best option.  The kids did well and we enjoyed visiting.

Luckily for me I have an amazing friend that took time out from her family to hang out with me.  While they were all in Disneyland, Jena and I hung out at the pool.  Andi and Ryan went swimming, white trash style until Ryan slipped and fell in soaking his underwear and shirt.  Andi pointed out a Mexican in the pool and said, "There's an Ito.  We have an ito, but it's a different one!"  Love it.  The day was winding down and I was nervous of the Friday night traffic.  I could see Andi and Ryan becoming worn and I worried about them getting to the point where they wouldn't cooperate.  So, about 5:00pm, worst time ever, we headed out.  We sat, and sat and decided to meet up with OUR ITOs for some dinner.  It took us an hour and twenty minutes from Anaheim, but man the food and company were worth the wait.  

We went to Miguel's Jr. so we didn't have to deal with the Friday restaurant traffic - I had had about enough of the traffic.  Andi was all over Ito, loving her time.  On the way there, once we had decided to meet them, she kept talking about how much she loved them and how much she wanted to see them.  She RAN to them once we arrived.  7pm we were on our way home and it worked out well now that the traffic had died down.  It took me an hour and 5 minutes to get home from there and it was nice actually.  There are things I miss about commuting - who would have thought.

But what I miss most of all is Jena.  I am grateful for technology and every other tool we use to keep tabs on one another.  There's nothing like hanging out with a friend and feeling like no time or distance has come between you.

And in case you're wondering, Tatum was adorable and I am so glad I met her!

Life is like an old time rail journey....

There are times when it's necessary to ignore the happenings outside your home and simply focus on the most important things in your life.  The "things" that live in your home.  The "things" that you sometimes trip over.  The "things" that keep you up all night.  The "things" that make you smile even during the darkest moments.  Those "things" aren't really "things", are they!?  Nope.  They're what gives you that refill necessary to deal with the issues, trials, and drama of the outside world.  Because let's be honest, you can't ignore all that is outside your little bubble; it's there for a reason.  And even if it's not there to teach you something, it's there to bring you joy at times.  The journey is crazy but it's so very worth it.

“Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he’s been robbed. The fact is that most putts don’t drop, most beef is tough, most children grow up to just be people, most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration, most jobs are more often dull than otherwise. Life is like an old time rail journey…delays…sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling burst of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride.” ― Gordon B. Hinckley ...

JACKSON Yesterday morning was a dreary one.  That was until I had a chance to spend time with Jackson in his class.  As soon as he came in from recess, he ran over to give me a hug.  Just glad I was there.  Working with him and his peers is always so rewarding.  I love being able to see how he works with them and how he learns.  At this stage in the game, they're such sponges and it's adorable.  And then to add to my joy, this morning Jackson told Andrew, at 6:40am, "I don't want to watch a show, I'm going to finish cleaning my room."  The fact that he started cleaning on his own, while we were all still in bed, and wanted to continue cleaning, well....

RYAN Yesterday afternoon, while still slightly discouraged, I decided to take some time with Ryan and work on his speech and preschool homework.  Wow, that man is learning a lot and I had no idea.  How sad is that.  Today, after preschool, Ry asked to do some homework and I jumped at the opportunity to sit down with him despite the fact I just had that burst of energy needed to clean up my house.  So, the house sat untouched but it doesn't even matter anymore.  Andi was sleeping, Cole was playing, Jackson was at school and Ryan and I were bonding.  Today he wanted sushi - so he called grandpa grandpa and asked.  Apparently he did a good job because he got exactly what he wanted.

ANDI "I being a good girl mommy" and she always is; when she wants to play with Corinne.  Apparently the pants I put on her today, "aren't cute".  Uh, excuse me.  She took Ry to preschool, hung out at boot camp and by the time we got home, she decided she needed to change.  It's getting ridiculous really.  I have always enjoyed the enthusiasm she had for fashion, but now that she's arguing with me over what's cute or not, so help us!  I don't know what I'll do when I can't convince her no matter what; I still have SOME control.  But she's hilarious, and helpful, and sweet.  When we picked up Ry, she got out and ran to him and put her arm around him; the little pill.  Well, this little pill got grandpa grandpa to had over $10 for ice cream.  She's got a gift!

COLE He's back to normal and I am so grateful for that.  He's back to playing independently and eating and sleeping.  He was apparently love sick - after seeing his girlfriend, Stevie Haub, on Sunday, he came home and slept 14 hours.  Woke up at about 6:30am, ate, showered, etc, and then went down again.  He took 4 naps that day at least an 1.5 hours each.  She healed him!  I'm so glad he's happy again and into everything.  While "playing" today, he made his way up on the "homework table".  I guess it was in honor of his 11mo. birthday (ahh, 11months, that magically age where you can gain a younger sibling!).  All on his own - we're in for it now!!

What A Week!

Was this really only five days ago?

No, really, what a roller coaster.  But today things are looking up.  It's warm and Ryan can breathe.  No more coughing, well no more excessive coughing.  We must continue treatments so he doesn't go downhill again, but wahoo!  Cole on the other hand is giving me a run for my money.  Oh the joys of four children, there's always one!  Cole has swollen gums and wants to be held ALWAYS!

Every Friday my friend, Valeri, poses the statement, "Tell me the best part of your week".  There are more than this but a couple that stand out:

Sushi and Menchies with grandpa grandpa and grandma shopping (just what Ryan ordered)

Getting into the V-Day spirit

Nikki and Becky hooked us up with an awesome 3yr/old shoot!  And Brit hooked us up with the adorable and inexpensive romper.  I'm in love!

Jackson heard the door bell and what he found brought such a smile to my face.  So cute.  So Fun.  So thoughtful!

"Mom, I think you are cute!" - Ryan Wesley Anderson

I realized last night that you can tell a lot about a person's week by their DVR list!  Where do I begin?

Not In A Good Way

This is our third "asthmatic distress" season and I'm not happy about it.  Back in September/October, we were handing out breathing treatments like candy.  That was the point I decided to give DoTerra Essential Oils a shot.  Well, the oil served us well, until now.  Sort of.  Cole got sick Sat. night and is doing well still.  I mean he's congested and cranky, but no fevers or infections.  Jackson started coughing a couple days ago but seems to just be asthmatic and nothing else.  Andi started coughing today but seems to be standing strong.  Ry though, poor Ry, that boy began Monday night and today had to be taken in.  His oxygen level was at 96 which isn't awful, but it's the lowest I would ever care to see it outside of the hospital!  When we left it was at 97, and so we have been hearing A LOT of coughing.  Treatments are every three hours instead of 4-6 which sucks.  And his cough, his abs are getting a major workout.

Today I had a coke; which included three refills.  Yesterday I had a Caramello (thanks Becky!).  Last week I was doing so well and I was noticing a difference.  This week I am just trying to make it through the day.  I had a conversation with a friend the other day about the roller coaster of owning it or working at it.  This week, I'm owning it because I can't fathom tackling my weight along with a needy 10mo. old that can't nap because he can't breathe, a needy 3 yr/old because she's a girl and she sees everyone else getting the attention, a needy 3 almost 4 year old that can't breathe, and a 5 yr/old that needs to be taken to and from school and needs academic practice and stimulation.  I'm tired.  Last night I slept in Andi's bed because with Ry coughing in my bed, Andi whining in my bed, Jackson tossing and turning in my bed and Andrew sleeping in my bed, there was no way I was getting a bit of rest.

BUT.... I am grateful because today we weren't admitted to the hospital.  Tonight we all sleep under one roof and I pray that it continues.  When I am sitting up giving Ry breathing treatments through the night, I will try to remember to be grateful I am sitting up in my own bed and not in a hospital.  Especially considering I found out his insurance isn't covering him right now - over a $17 error.  How I screwed that up I don't know.  Let's hope I can figure it out tomorrow!

OK, Ry's almost done with this treatment - off to bed!  

Exhausted - But In A Good Way

"Are you happy I have school tomorrow because you will have less kids to take care of?"  OK, so maybe that's a perk, but really, when it comes down to it, we're all simply happier on a schedule.  Three weeks of break was way too much.  Jackson came home Tuesday, his first day back, as an angel.  The youngers went down for a nap and Jackson did all his homework for the week with very little fight.  He was so loving and affectionate towards his siblings.  He was so helpful and enthusiastic.  He was back; my son was BACK!  Oh how grateful I am for school :)  Ryan too was so excited to go back to school and speech and Andi was stoked to have her regular Thursday play date.

This of course does not mean it was a perfect week.  School comes with a price and the price we pay is rather steep: NAPS.  With 2:15 pick-up and kids getting older, the need for a 1:30pm nap time is rather difficult when I have to load them up 20min. later.  So, I am trying this every other day thing because I can't imagine doing naps every single day at 2:45ish.  That would mean way late bed time and that's not happening.

*Juana, Ry is obsessed with this pillow and wants nothing to do with his normal pillow.

So aside from school starting again, we have had Mint Cyn. playgroup, errands at Children's Orchard, praying for dear friends, boot camp, speech, play dates, babysitting, card making, cycling (thanks Dad and Nikki), birthdays, and just plain life....

Tuesday night we had the privilege of celebrating Becky's birthday and I know it was just what we all needed.  Becky is a fabulous friend and I will forever be grateful for her - Happy Birthday, Becky!

Thursday night was card night and I am realizing I need to invest in some more paper and fancy tools!  But it was a fun night out and again I was in awe of how very talented people are.

Mr. Cole has done surprisingly well with the nap interruptions this week.  He continues to grow and keep us smiling.  I am enjoying him but I am not a huge fan of this stage - the point where they become tired of baby food which forces you to be more creative during meal time and the point where they can't walk but want to so desperately.

Beans, yogurt, pasta, tofu, rice, ground beef, bananas, waffles, crepes, apples, pizza, squash (or whatever else you want to stick in front of him)

Not featured, but should be, are the walks I have been taking with my friend, Jenni.  She walks "the loop" about six times in a week and I have finally committed to joining her.  Jackson begs to go because he loves riding his scooter with his friend, Owen.  They have been 99% blissful - until it happened.  We were just making our way home; I was about three houses away but Jackson was across the street from our home.  "I was excited to see the house" so he quickly scooted his way home.  I yelled, screamed, hollered and he did not hear me.  He did not stop until he was directly in front of the car that nearly killed him.  It was not a car I recognized and so I am confident that she was more cautious than many of the drivers on the street, including myself.  It was so close, too close.  Jackson made his way across the street and the lady just sat there in her car.  I am assuming she was as shaken as we were.  Once Jackson made it across, he collapsed and sobbed. It was close but he knows God saved him.  He was lucky.  So lucky.  And I just hope and pray it was a lesson learned for all the kids that day.

On to happier moments - our dear friend, Matt, is having a birthday this week and being the Amazing Race fan that he is, his spectacular wife put together a Canyon Country Amazing Race.  

Oh my gosh it was an incredible day.  I would love to do something like this every couple of months.  Amazing!  But for future races, I will not be doing an hour cycling class the night before.  My legs were failing me.  Who knew this would require so much stamina!  Tina nominated me to drive and so I did, in an old Expedition with no guts.  Grrrrr.  But I admit, it was still fun being in the drivers seat. 

*more pics later

But, despite the car failing me off the line, and my legs resembling jello, the girls were still victorious!  It was great being able to hang out with friends and family and so something so exciting.

Our final destination was Chili's for lunch.  We were famished at this point and our food could not come fast enough.  It was so great of the Elton's to join us even though they couldn't make the race.

This being Conference weekend, I had the chance to attend the adult session last night while Andrew stayed home with the kids.  Today was not as peaceful.  We showed up and sat up on the stage.  It was a great start hearing from Elder Snow and catching the shout out to his son and daughter-in-law, Garrett and Dayna (Wes' date during our Pepperdine days - hehe).  So cute.  (It made me a tad emotional because minutes before we left for Conference, I got a FB message from Garrett letting us know they were thinking of Wes today, on what would have been his 30th bday.)  But Cole was difficult and so during the middle of the second talk, we made our way to the halls and Primary Room.  We roamed for a bit and Andrew caught up with Justin Barnes until Jackson had difficulty with his belt which resulted in peeing on his pants.  That was it for us - 11:15am and we were out of there.

After quickly changing, we headed to my parent's house for Bri's birthday celebration.  YUM.  Delicious.  The kids were so excited for Bri's party.  And I can't complain about winning the Farkle game as well.  

We were exhausted and not the liveliest bunch, but it was a nice afternoon with the family.  That was until Andi lost it and we packed up to head home.  All are in bed now and despite how exhausted that girl is, she is still yelling for me.  These no nap days are really messing her up!

These past five years have been interesting.  You think about the fact that today, Wes should be turning he 30 but he's not here to celebrate.  Then you think about how much better off he is because really, life on earth is tough.  Then you think about Bri and the fact that she is here and we can celebrate with her.  It was always a day we had two celebrations and we try to continue that tradition.  The funny thing is these two are so similar; which I guess you would figure considering they share a birthday.  But it's nice, it really is like he's still here and Bri carries a bit of him.  Does that even make sense?  It does to me.  So, Happy Birthday to Bri and Wes - the two that are often known as the life of the party!

CA Science Museum

I knew there'd come a day where I'd forget my camera on an outing.  So sad it happened on a way fun outing.  The Science Museum was empty, the kids were happy, and no one threw up!  Here are my lousy phone pictures.

Thank Heaven, For Little Girls 3

1. What is your favorite color? pink
2. What is your favorite toy? Princess
3. What is your favorite fruit? apples
4. What is your favorite tv show? Spongebob (I'm pretty sure it's only because she was watching it this morning for the first time)
5. What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch? chicken
6. What is your favorite outfit? I can't say that (so, mom's answer, Princess dresses.  Or pretty dresses for church)
7. What is your favorite game? race car
8. What is your favorite snack? um, chicken
9. What is your favorite animal? monkey
10. What is your favorite song? bad words (I have no clue what this means)
11. What is your favorite book? Jesus Christ, Amen
12. Who is your best friend? my friends.  (Who are your friends)  Corinne, Taylor, Ryan, Jackson, daddy
13. What is your favorite cereal? cocolate (chocolate)
14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? fireworks (thanks Papa, he brought some this weekend)
15. What is your favorite drink? orange juice
16. What is your favorite holiday? 
17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? my "stuff": blanket, bear, and dummy
18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? cereal, French Toast
19. What do you want for dinner on your birthday?  chicken on a stick (Mom Can Cook Thai Restaurant)
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? French Toast, red (I don't think we get this question yet)

This is what I'm up against; this is why I could sweep every hour!  This is why after boot camp Friday, when Erin offered to take my kids so I could clean my house, I was all over that!

Especially because Thursday night I didn't get much done.  Jackson was "having a bad night" and devastated that his sister's birthday was the next morning and he did not personally get her a gift.  So, at 9pm, he rolled out of bed, put on some shoes and we took off to Target.  "Mom, there's so much I want here it's killing me!", me too Jackson, me too!  When we got home with our loot, we quickly wrapped and then "birthday uped" Andi's room.

Finally, Friday morning, Friday the 13th.  Grandma Shopping .got them all some chocolate muffins for breakfast.  Following the muffins, they asked me to make waffles.  Any other day I would have said "no".

The day began at Boot Camp where the kids shared balloons with all their friends.  This made everyone happy.  Then straight to the Pyne's to play.  Once I picked them up, we did a quick lunch then I made sure homegirl got a nap so she'd be pleasant that evening.  And nap she did; I had to wake her up to redeem her surprise from Grandma Shopping.

Mani/Pedi - this will have to be a yearly tradition for sure!  Andi, when we got there you gleamed.  You had puckered lips and I could see the smile you were suppressing.  Once in the chair that was way too large for you, you observed it all.  We asked if you wanted water and you said yes.  When you were done, you sat all the way back to get a massage.  Smart lady!  After "the guy" did your toes, you stuck out your hands for a  mani.  Again, so smart. And really, there was not a soul in that room that was going to say "no" to you.

We had so much fun with you and all I could think about were the years to come.  I am way excited.

For dinner you requested, "chicken on a stick".  YUM, Mom Can Cook Thai Food.  You love chicken sa-tay and Thai Iced Tea.  As customary, we only let you have one sip and you milked it for all it was worth.  You were so cuddly and happy that night.  I love that you sported your brand new purse from Great Aunt Jill and Great Uncle Ben with your freshly painted nails.  (You also found a way to score $5 from grandma shopping to keep in your purse).

Papa and Gramma Nette came into town to celebrate your birthday.  Once they arrived, you ran over to show them your nails.  Of course, you had to show both feet!

Once stuffed, we headed home to open your presents.  Jackson was the most excited about this part and you, you were a hoot to watch.  Seriously, it was awesome watching your expressions and strategies.  I mean, holding the gift bag with your legs/feet while you dug in.  And sharing your blue lip glosses with Ryan.  You loved the bag with the baby and the chef hat, "Haha he looks like Cole".  You "oohed" and "ahhhed" and it was adorable.

We have been trying this darn large cupcake for a year now and still, have not had great success.  You didn't mind, but you also didn't eat more than a couple licks of frosting.  Oh well.  You were still cute!

Pinata Time!  I really shouldn't have bought so much candy for a party that consisted of three children!  It was great that Markie came into town to surprise everyone and there he was, taking care of your pinata for you.  Fantastic memories.

A great time was had by all because you were a joy to watch.  Chick, you are out of control - and I mean that in the best and worst way :)  You have fight like no other but I know you'll need this.  I will not beat that out of you because it will save you.  Remember your value.  Remember what's important.  Remember you are one of a kind and you are so very important to us, your brothers, your family, your friends and most importantly, to God.  You have a purpose and I pray you follow it.  We love you, princess.

"Where are my boys?"

"I want lipstick"

"I want a snack"

"Where's my stuff?"

"I like you mommy"

"Can I go with you?"

"Daddy, I want to help you"

"Uh, uh, up!!!!"

"Where we's going?"

"No, no boys!"

"What the heck" with such expression

"Ryan, I don't want you to go to jail" (encouraging him to put on his seat belt)

"I will help you Ryan"

"I want to do it myself"

"You're a bad boy"

"I'm a good girl"

"Mama"

"I want to hold Cole"

"Cole wake up?"

"1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19"

*For another month, we have a 5 year old, 3 year old, another 3 year old, and a 10.5 month old.  Fun!

Andi was so happy that her birthday weekend was shared with one of her BFF's, Corinne.  They are a day apart and Andi was elated to celebrate with her.  There's nothing like good friends no matter your age.  (And I have a feeling this won't be the last time Ryan tries to hang out with Andi and her girlfriends hehe)

What a fabulous weekend!

Bagel Chips

We weren't sure we were going to make it.  Nothing was lining up right.  But finally, three hours after goal, we were on our way to St. George, UT for the Dexter sealing.  I thought it'd be harder to say by to the kids but the days leading up to this trip were so stressful, it was a welcome break.  And seriously, with how excited the kids were to have a sleep over, there was no room for tears.

Tristan drove, both ways, it she did a fabulous job.  On the way up we stopped for linner at Treasure Island and yum, looking at the picture makes me so hungry.  Because our meal was such a success, we tried to get lucky on the electronic roulette table but we failed.  So, we continued on our way...

At about 8:30pm we arrived at Tori's home.  We were able to then exchange make gifts - yes, from Christmas.  Zoe had my name and made me an awesome clay necklace.  Brilliant choice I thought.  Shay had Andrew and made him some Summer Sausage - oh the places we went with that.  Andrew had Annette and made her a "Wes Penny Piggy Bank" and Jackson and I had Mike and Paige (they were greatly missed) and we took their engagement picture and on the mat of the frame, wrote out their love story.  It was a pretty good year I have to say!

That night we played some Yahtzee and then headed back to our hotel around midnight.  It was so nice and I was so grateful to Tristan for arranging everything.  Too bad she couldn't take care of my internal clock so I didn't wake up all through the night!!  

Saturday morning we began at about 7am so we could all shower, eat and arrive to the Temple on time.  Shay stressed 10:10am so many times there was no way I was going to be late.  Don't tick off a prego!!  Tristan treated us to a divine breakfast at Cracker Barrel and we still had time to wander the store and leisurely arrive and wait at the Temple.  

The sealing was beautiful.  I mean, the Temple itself is gorgeous and it just felt so nice to be there.  Shay and Mike were overwhelmed with emotion and it was great to be able to witness that.  But nothing tops the moment Weston was brought into the room.  He cowered into the embrace of the Temple worker until he realized it was safe to go to this parents.  There were so many tears as Weston sat between Shay and Mike and was sealed to his parents.  We are so happy for them all.

 We needed this trip and we are grateful for all that made it possible.  We need the quality time together, loved the quality time with Tristan and Chris and just overall, it was a great trip.  You can do a lot in 30hrs. if you put your mind to it.  But nothing beats the Bagel Chips at California Adventure!!

And knowing how well the kids did, believe me we will go away again very soon :)  It makes it so much more comforting receiving constant updates, knowing they're close to home (especially when they needed to be taken in to the doc for a check-up), and they're enjoyed immensely.

Craft time - Andi "holding" Ry in his seat because it wasn't strapped - chocolate - weirdo - first encounter with Menudo (and she loved it) - walks - dinner at "Pizza Hut" (Shakey's)