The Nelson's

Halloween Delights

2011-11-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

Halloween was so much fun this year. Sydney was Pirate Princess and Mason was Tow-Mater. The kids (well mainly Sydney) actually got the concept of Halloween this years. She would run up to the door and say, "Trick or Treating." It was so funny. And then we have Mason who at a young age knows how to work the system. He would either take handfuls of candy when they let him, while giving him candy he would reach in for more, or just stand there silently so people just kept on giving him more candy in hope he would leave. Needless to say we ended up with tons of candy. We also had so much trick or treating with Curtis, Cassie, Davis, and Kelsi.

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Aquarium Life

2011-10-29T20:07:00.000-07:00

So a few weeks ago we attempted to go to Gardner Village to see the Witches. We were rained out so we ended up going to the Living Planet Aquarium. The kids loved seeing the fish and running around.

Loving Fall

2011-10-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of the season Fall. It means soups, changing leaves, cooler weather, pumpkin added to everything, pumpkin patches, and so many more fun events. This year we are so blessed to be back in Utah for my favorite seasons, which means draging the kids to all the fun spots I love to see. We have hit up Gardner Village to see the witches, Hogle Zoo, and Pumpkin patches. We were lucky enough to be accompanied by cousins, grandparents, and friends in these various activities. So here are some pictures of Gardner Village and the pumpkin patch.

3 Months

2011-10-26T13:47:00.000-07:00

Whoa I finally figured out how to get back on to my blogging account. So an update, we are three months into our first deployment as a family. Whew this is hard work and know it would only be harder in I was alone in Washington. We are loving our time in Utah, but miss our Military Friends and their amazing support groups.

On another note, Sydney is loving and thriving in Preschool which is awesome for her. Mason well he is Mason not much else to be said. We are eagerly awaiting Halloween a few more days. At the current rate the kids might ruin their Halloween costumes before its actually Halloween. We have to wear them on a daily basis.

Okay I will have to post picuters of some of our fun adventures while Daddy has been gone, but as of right now I have two little voices who have climbed into a crib yelling for me to come help them. So off I got to save my two munckins.

Photo Card

2011-10-26T13:41:00.001-07:00

Banner Of Joy Christmas

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Hair Do

2011-06-10T21:24:00.000-07:00

I have a dear friend from high school that is amazing at doing hair. She recently started a blog about all the fun hair do's she does on her daughter, so one Sunday I decided to get a little fancy with Syd. Granted Sydney's hair is a little long than my friends daugther's hair, but I think it still turned out so cute. However, Sydney wasn't happy with me by the end of doing her hair, but I think she was more mad at me for putting her in her "Cinderella Dress." She hates when dresses get too frilly.

6/4/2011

2011-06-10T20:54:00.000-07:00

So in an attempt to find anything that will keep us out of the house and our minds off the fact that Daddy comes home in a few shorts day we are doing whatever we can these days. Last Saturday I took the kids to the Kid's Safety Day at the fairgrounds. I mainly went because Mason's obessions with trucks, buses, fire trucks, planes, and trains. Anything loud outside he sits and yells at forever plane, plane, plane, or bus, bus, bus. It can get really annoying really quick, but he is too cute. Needless to say we got there and he didn't want to have anything to do with the fire trucks or buses. He wanted the water fountain. I thought for sure this day was going to be a bust. After 20 minutes and tons of pics of Sydney and fire trucks he decided it was fun and okay. This is when Mason finally realized what he was looking at he just started yelling Fire Truck and from that point on we were good to go.The famous water fountain he just had to be by.
There was some sweet lady who was holding Mason up and holding his window open so he didn't shut it, other wise there would have been no good photo of the two of them. Thanks unknown lady.

Wow Finally

2011-06-10T20:51:00.000-07:00

Okay so this is how bad I am at blogging. It has taken me two days to long on to update our blog because I can't remember the stupid password/email. I am such a retard sometimes. I guess I just have to use the right combination until I get it right. But whoa I got it so lets blog. :)

Life with Rock Stars

2011-05-07T20:58:00.000-07:00

Tonight the kids were having a little fun with their star glasses they received at the base Easter Egg Hunt. So I had to take a few photos so we could remember the cute times of my kids and their Rock Star lifestyle. Enjoy

Someday I know they will kill me for that one.

Easter Fun

2011-05-04T20:47:00.000-07:00

Okay here are a few pictures from Easter. We had lots of fun dying eggs, Easter Egg hunts, and meeting the Easter Bunny.

Tulip Festival

2011-05-04T20:24:00.000-07:00

So for over a year now I have been dying to go up further north in Washington to the Tulip Festival. Last year I told Paul that no matter what I was going. We lucky for me, my mom ended up coming up for her Spring Break the week I was planning on going so guess who got dragged along. Yep, Mason, Sydney, and Grandma. Needless to say I was so excited to go and see the field of floweres. I know it seems like a dumb thing but the sight of thousand of vibrant tulip in bloom was amazing. I loved every minute of it and the kids like the mud, dirt, smelling and stealing a few flowers. They were real troopers for this adventure. Love at first Tulip

Hardest thing ever to get both of them looking the same direction. Never did get a good pictures of them both looking at smiling at the same time.

Mason and Mommy's loves: Mason = buses / Mommy=Tulips best of both worlds.

Starting Again

2011-05-04T20:17:00.000-07:00

Okay so my cute Sister in law has encouraged me to start blogging again so that she can see updated pictures of the kids.

Just to bring people up to speed incase you are all curious of what is going on in our lives. Sydney is currently 2 1/2. She will be starting a small preschool type setting to help with her speech development and a few other issues. Mason is 1 1/2 and turning into a holy terror. This kids climbs, hits, kicks, bite, and whatever else you can think of he is on top of that also. But his is also becoming a little chatter box and loves to say hi and bye to everyone and give his precious little kisses. As for myself I am learning why I never want to be a single parent. So we are what 5 months into the year and I have seen my husband for a total of 7 weeks and he will deploy mid summer for 6-8 months. This has been a struggle but we are being supported by amazing people around us. Paul is well Paul; always on the go. When he is home there is always something to be done and time to be filled.

Recent Fun

2010-08-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

Well folks its been a very long long time since I updated. So I am putting up a few fun pictures of the kids so you can see how big they are getting. We have had many fun adventures this summer. We enjoyed the cool and warm of Washington and hot of Utah for a few weeks.
Mason enjoying his first birthday smash cake.

Spending Days up at the beach sometimes its cold and sometimes its warm

Sydney pointing our the airplanes at Seafair for the Blue Angels

Mason's first haircut. He looks so grown up now.

Mason B-Day Celebration

2010-08-08T22:30:00.000-07:00

Hello All,
It has been forever since we have been on here. Mason turns 1 on August 10. We have had an awesome summer and are looking forward to seeing everyone in Utah in September for Davis and Kelsi's wedding. We really enjoy Washington and the cool weather. Sydney is running every where and Mason is catching up with her.

Warp Speed Ahead

2010-01-31T21:36:00.000-08:00

Hello All,
It has been forever since we have been on here. So let me (Paul) give you an update on what has happened to our family in the last month or so.

Sydney is a live wire and is starting to speak a little better English now. Before she spoke a ton of Sydneyese. She loves to go on walks and play with her little brother. She is the Velociraptor in our family and finds any weaknesses we set up for her. She does good in church for the most part, but there are days that we have to stand out in the foyer.

Mason is so close to crawl. He rolls over quite a bit, screams and yells. He sticks his tongue out all the time when he is excited. He still wakes up in the middle of the night at least once, but is getting better and hopefully will sleep through the night soon. He is very fun to be around and loves to also go on walks.

Brianna just had surgery on January 12. She was down and out for about a week and a half. So we brought my mother Jan to come on up for back up, the reason why we did that is because my ship was going underway for a month. I didn't want Brianna taking care of all the kids right after surgery. So we flew my mother out. I was certain they were going to fly me out to my ship to meet up with it but they said NO. I was shocked. So I am on "Beach Det" until they return. The hours are super long working for beach det they are 0800 - 0845. I know I am spoiled. The ship has contacted me to see how Brianna and I are doing. This is one of the best commands I have ever been to. They are great. So Brianna is up to 95% fully operational. The surgery went well and she is enjoying the time off with me. She has been doing awesome scrap booking for the kids and family. It really looks good. We have made some new year resolutions and will be putting them in effect now.

As for me, I have been enjoying my ship and new friends that I come in contact with. I have a calling with our ward as Priest Advisor. I teach every week. We have the missionaries over quite a bit as well. We are trying to help them find people to teach and help them in anyway we can. Washington State is an awesome place to live, we plan to explore more of it in the spring and summer. I am still doing school through Columbia College of Missouri. Hopefully I will get my BA soon. I have 20 more credits to go. As for the next couple of months I will be underway with my ship after they return in Feb. It seems like we are the only ship in the fleet, we always get picked on. I have the new Naval Uniforms, and they are awesome. I have been following the Utah Jazz and supporting them, GO JAZZ!!!!. Just living life and enjoying it with my great family. Talk to you soon

Mason Gage Nelson

2009-08-17T22:10:00.000-07:00

Please help us welcome our newest addition. Mason Gage Nelson was born on Monday, August 10th at 1:14 am. He weighed 8lbs and 6 oz. and was 20.5 inches long. He decided to make quiet the entrance into our hearts. I was supposed to be induced on Sunday evening but when we arrived at the hospital we found out that I was already in active labor dialated to a 4 and my water broke during my examination. The doctor told us we would be having a baby that night and would not be having the induction. After a wonderful epidural and a few sketchy moment of his heart rate droping the doctor decided I needed to push and out he came, unravaling from the embilical cord. And what did mom see? Doctors reaching and scrambling to catch him, good thing I had three doctors, a nurse, and my husband around me to catch the little guy. We are so thrilled to have Mason in our home and lives.

Baby coming

2009-08-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

Just so I have all corners of communication covered. We will be having the Baby Mason on Monday, August 10th. If everything goes well he will be a day early instead of 10 days late. The doctors were worried about him being big or bigger than his sister. They were also concerened about my blood pressure; it can't seem to make its mind up these days. Neither myself or the baby are at risk of anything currently, but the doctors wanted to get me induced instead of making me go over my due date and risk any problems. We will keep you all posted and everything and Mason's arrival.

Counting Down

2009-07-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

Well we have eleven days left until my due date for baby #2. There have been some crazy things going on this week with me so my doctor was considering inducing me on Tuesday. Luckily for me that ended up not happening, we weren't ready for the baby to come on Tuesday. So after that little scare or shocker we have been buckling down and getting more of his stuff prepared.

As of know I think we are going to stick with the name Mason but it kind of looks like his middle name might change. So we are thinking of Mason Gage Nelson. We just couldn't settle between the two and or give one of them up so he gets both Mason and Gage. But we could change our minds still when he arrives. So lets we are hoping he arrives in a timely manner and not 10 days late like his sister. Just a quick little post for you all.

She is trying

2009-07-19T21:01:00.000-07:00

Sydney is trying to walk so a friend gave us a toy to borrow since their next kid is only three months they don't need it for a while. Sydney will hold on and go walking around, she is such a ham and so fun to watch hope you enjoy.

Our Beaver

2009-07-02T21:25:00.001-07:00

So as I was mentioning to my mom a few nights ago, we have a little wood eating beaver on our hands. For like three nights in a row Sydney would not go to sleep and would just scream from her crib and when we would go into her room we would find her standing up with her mouth on the crib. These are the results. Just a few random pics of Sydney, she is quit the character.

The House

2009-07-02T20:58:00.000-07:00

Well folks this is what the house in Washington looks like, if any of you have seen base housing in Lemoore, CA it is very similar. Sorry this pictures are so bland, there isn't much you can do with military housing but as promised here are the pictures minus some rooms. We upgraded from a two bedroom one bath; to three bedrooms and 2 1/2 bath (thanks to baby Mason or Gage).

The new car from a bad angle in our tiny garage.
The Kids bathroom.
Sydney's room; I still need to find dots for her walls again.

The baby's room, not much in it yet. We have 5 1/2 more weeks about till my due date.

The Living room and entry hallwayThe view downstairs from the upstairs hallway.View when you walk in from the entry way. The Kitchen from both angels.

New, New and New

2009-06-04T14:23:00.000-07:00

So in a weeks time period we have managed to moved from Central California to an hour from Seattle, WA. We made the journey in two days with the help of my brothers driving and that is when the adventure began. So as if a 15 hour jounery isn't enough, while driving down steep mountain hills Paul's beloved Taruas decided to try and brake down. By that I mean its engine cut out on us and we had no power, luckily there was no cars or trucks around and an exit nearby. We pulled off and let the car rest for a while, we were just hoping that we could make it to Oregon for the night before any big decisions were made. Fortunately we made it all the way to Washington without any more problems.

So Thursday we checked in and got our new house and Friday all of our furniture was delivered and the unpacking began. But back to Taruas, we dropped her off at the mechanics to see if it was an easy fix or not. Well it turns out the fuel pump was on its last leg and would cost at least $800. So then we found out more was wrong with the car and we decided it wouldn't be worth trying to fix, so on top of unpacking we had to look for a new car. We ended up purchasing a new 2009 Dodge Journey. We got a sweet deal and love the vechicle. Tuesday we spent the day getting the run around at the hospital and apparently being seven months pregnant gets you better service than what you would regularly get but it is still crazy all you have to do, and Wednesday we flew out to Utah for vacation. Needless to say the house is about 80% put together and I can walk in the front door and feel somewhat home because the family room and kitchen are the most put together.

It has been a crazy week and so much more has happened but I won't bore you all, I will post pics of the new house and car when I find the camera. I put it somewhere and I don't know where it went, things got moved back and forth between cars too much. But all in all Washington is great so far, we love the trees, the green, and supposed rain (I am still waiting for it.) So pictures to come.

Oh and congrats to all of our friends who have recently had their babies. There were way too many of you to keep up with. We love you all.

Countdown begins

2009-05-12T20:36:00.001-07:00

Well for all those who don't know what is going on around are neck of the woods lately. Here is and update, I guess it was inspired by our good friend Jason who is over in Afghanistan currently. So I should be better at updating thing.

We just got back from a surprise visit to Utah it was great. We drove through the night on arrived early Friday morning leaving my dad with quit the shock, he probably thought someone was breaking into the house. We had a wonderful weekend celebrating Mother's day and some birthday's. It was also fun to see Sydney interact with Grandparents, cousins, Aunts and Uncles. We arrived back in good ole Lemoore Monday night. Needless to say we are now going to fly to Utah when we go back during transfer. I don't know who the drive was more brutal on Sydney or Me.

Now that we are back in Lemoore the fun begins, we move in two weeks. I can't believe it!! Between doctors appointment for me and Sydney it feels like we are at the hospital almost every other day I swear, even though we aren't. And days we don't have doctors appointments its the movers inspecting the household good, or calling housing to make sure we have a house in WA, then there is figuring out travel arrangements, and the list goes on. I never knew moving was so much work. But with all the work, we are excited to move to WA. We will miss everyone here in Lemoore but are definitely looking forward to new adventures as if having a second child isn't enough!! haha So if you don't see us we aren't ignoring you, we are just busy. Love ya all!

Finally Mom

2009-04-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

Well in the midst of Sydney crawling a few paces and getting her third tooth, I finally figured out how to get her hair in a ponytail. She has these long little blonde hairs and in the wind you can just see them flowing. I have been trying and trying like crazy over the past few weeks to get it in a ponytail. My cousin finally gave me some tips that really helped, thanks Lisa!!

Disneyland

2009-04-17T18:10:00.000-07:00

On Monday morning we drove down to Disneyland which was about 3 1/2 hours from us. We spent the day at the park with our friends Tyler, Lisa, and Levi. It was so much fun seeing Levi who is like 4 and Sydney explore the park. They enjoyed seeing all of the characters and going on the rides. Sydney rode three rides; Pirates of the Caribbean, Its a Small World, and Roger Rabbits crazy cars or something like that.

While in Mickey's Toon Town we saw Goofy, Pluto, Minnie, and Mickey. Goofy wouldn't stop long enough to get a picture, but Pluto was really good about it. I really wanted Sydney to have a picture with Minnie but the line was forever long. Meanwhile Lisa took Levi in Mickey's house and came running back out telling us that Mickey was inside and there was no line. So we took advantage of it and his little house was so cute. On Tuesday morning we let the big kids rides some rides and before we left we went and saw Winnie the Pooh, Eyore, and Tigger. We got lucky though, Paul and I needed to be leaving the park by noon so we could be home by five for his midterm. While we were waiting to see Pooh bear, they announced he would only be there for five more minutes before they took a break. I was worried we wouldn't be able to see the characters, but we just made it through the line before they started their break. I was so glad because Sydney totally recognizes them and She was so cute whenever we saw a character. She would always grab at their noses or mouth and look at them so curious.

It was a very quick trip, but a lot of fun. Needless to say I am never going to Disneyland preggers again. My ankles were huge after walking and standing all day. But amazingly enough for not being able to ride any rides really I had a blast. I can't wait to go again someday when the kiddos are a little older and understand or can ride more rides.

Bouncy Bounce

2009-04-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

Sydney has a bounce that she goes crazy in when we she is playing in the bouncer. Over the past week or two she is has started bouncing on your legs, ground, grass, or whatever you are holding her on. During General Conference last weekend Paul was holding her and she wouldn't stop for like 10 minutes so I finally busted out the camera. She was cracking herself up and us as well.

Easter Party

2009-04-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was Paul's work Easter Party for the little kids. We decided to take Sydney to it even though she is still really young and doesn't know what is going on. She didn't cry at all when she saw the clown or the Easter bunny so that was a plus, but at the same time she didn't sit on either of their laps.

We also participated in the egg hunt with her trying to win a big wheel car. It was fun but we didn't win, that is okay though. Sydney even tried to grab at the eggs but they were a little to big for her little hands. But it was fun to go and see everyone and have Syd participate.

Opinions Needed

2009-03-27T17:08:00.000-07:00

All right folks, you all know of our new situation about having another baby. We are having a hard time deciding if we should buy another crib or buy Sydney a toddler bed. We are not sure if she will be ready for a toddler bed at one or so. Any advice anyone can provide would be very welcomed.

Also any ideas for names would be great too. We are having a hard time thinking of some we like so its nice to hear other people ideas, even though we do have 20 weeks still. Thanks for your help everyone!! Love you all

A little Baby....

2009-03-24T22:04:00.000-07:00

So today I took the adventure of heading up to Fresno for my 20 week ultrasound. I know some of you might be floored that I am 20 weeks along, but trust me I am too. Well the results are in, we have so far a healthy little baby and it is a BOY!!! We are so excited for this little baby boy to join our family.

What Sydney has been up too....

2009-03-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some videos of Sydney. She is growing like crazy, so I hope you enjoy them.

Washington Trip

2009-03-13T20:54:00.000-07:00

On our trip to Washington to find a place to live, we took a day off from house hunting and went to Seattle. We didn't stay long because we didn't have a stroller and it was kind of cold so we only went to a few sites. I think the funnest thing had to be going to the Space Needle. We decided to splurge and eat at the restaurant inside the Needle. It was so much fun, you get to see all of Seattle as you rotate while eating. We could even see Mt. Rainer from the Needle, it is huge and so amazing. I recommend anyone going to Seattle to go to the Space Needle its a little pricey but worth the site and the excitement.

We were lucky with our trip and looked at several houses on the two different bases and a few other houses out in town that members of the church were renting out. We have narrowed it down between a base house and a house out in town. Boy its a lot harder than I thought it would ever be to decide what will be best for our family for the next three years. Lets hope we make our decision soon. It was a fun trip but made a realize we are spoiled by the warm weather of Lemoore.

Huge Changes

2009-02-06T13:07:00.000-08:00

Well in the Nelson family we are proud to announce two new huge changes to our family. Most you already know them but for those of you who don't here you go, and for those that do here is more information.

1. We will be moving to Bremerton, Washington on May 26, that is when we are scheduled to leave Lemoore. (YES!!!!no more nasty cows)

2. We are pregnant AGAIN. Trust me this was a total shock when I found out in December and today seeing the baby was a shock again that this was really happening. It was not planned and I am not allowed to say it was a mistake. So our Surprise baby is due August 11; it has a great heart beat, everything looks perfect thus far, and we are 13 weeks along. Yes, Sydney and baby #2 will be 11 months apart, I don't know how I am going to handle this and I have had very mixed feeling about this pregnancy. I still can't say that I am out right excited, but we know this is happening for a reason.

Oh and another fun little thing. Paul got his Associates degree this week. I am so proud of him for accomplishing that and we are now halfway done with his bachelors. Good job babe!!

Packing

2009-01-27T20:18:00.000-08:00

Well its official; Paul, Sydney and I are finally reunited as a family and back at home in California. But the night before we came back home while I was packing I couldn't help but take a fun photo opportunity with Sydney. I stuck her in a suitcase and watched her play for a few minutes and then decided that I need a few pictures, but these pictures are the end results.

Inauguration Day

2009-01-24T21:03:00.000-08:00

Well I know it is a few days late, but on Tuesday I was interested to see the Presidential inauguration to see what Pres. Obama had to say. So I didn't want to miss his speech and I didn't know what time it was coming on so I delayed getting myself and Sydney ready for the day. So when Sydney started getting restless and wanting a change I put her on her belly. I just had to take a snap shot when she stopped and looked up at the TV and started watch the inauguration. I know it isn't the best picture in the whole word since I took it on my phone, but know when she is older I can tell her that she watched the first Black President be sworn into office. I just thought it was a fun idea.

Holidays

2009-01-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

So now that the holidays are over, it doesn't feel like things have calmed down. Our holidays were spent in Utah with family. We had the fortunate opportunity to bless Sydney while we were in town with the whole family. We spent the week we had running back and forth between the Nelson's and the Van Wagoner Family's. It was so good to see everyone and have Sydney celebrate her first Christmas with everyone.

After a week of being in Utah Paul headed back to California for a week of being by himself, which leaves us in our current situation. I am still in Utah for about another week and loving every moment of it. Paul however is separated from us in Key West Florida. He is missing everyone but is loving the warmer weather and taking the opportunity to go play with sharks and fish in his spare time snorkeling.Sydney has been rolling over more, chatting a ton, and loves spending time with her uncles and grandparents. However we do have to admit that men scare her. Every time my dad or brothers hold her she just starts screaming, but she is starting to do better.

We hope that everyone had a great holiday and is enjoying 2009. Hopefully next time there will be so funner updates.

Milestones

2008-12-06T21:41:00.000-08:00

Well folks its official Sydney finally rolled over. SWEET!! She went from her belly to her back. Since last Sunday she has been rolling back and forth and finally got it today. Also maybe from a little help from mom. I set her down for tummy time and didn't get one of her arms completely straight. So I admit she might have an advantage, but I don't care she rolled over. I was lucky to catch it, I was preparing some bottle because I was going out for a few hours and turned a way a few minutes and when I turned back to look at her she flipped over. It went way to fast. So excited, too bad Paul wasn't here to see it.

Also this is our new way of sitting, she does very well in her bumbo and it has saved my life more than once with Paul being gone. I have been able to set her on the counter and do my make up or set her in it to make a bottle or even eat. It a blessing that she loves to sit in it and does so well, especially since she like to be up to look at the world so much these days.

Dressing time

2008-12-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Well if any of you read a post that I posted back in October I think you would know that Paul has been trying to learn how to dress Sydney. I posted about an incident in dressing her, well he has been caught being an offend of dress standards again. The pictures tell the story clearly. But I can't give him to much of a hard time, he is try and helping greatly. I guess he will have to dress her more on the weekends and our Christmas vacation.

2 Months

2008-12-01T23:04:00.000-08:00

Today we had Sydney's two month check up. We got a good report from the doctor and Sydney is looking and doing wonderful. She is definitely a growing baby, she was 13lb 7 oz and is 23 in at 2 months; I can't believe it. She even had a few shots and by the time she realized what was going on they were over. So now we wait till the end of January for her 4 month appointment. Happy Shopping everyone!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-28T00:18:00.000-08:00

Well this year we tried something a little different, we stayed here in California. Not know what to do about Thanksgiving, I decide to host my first Thanksgiving and try my hand at making a turkey. Little did I know that this adventure we be surrounded by tons of mini adventures. There were several times when it was just going to be Paul and I and I wasn't going to make a turkey. It seemed like everyone we invited had plans and was going to be gone, or some people had car troubles and almost got stuck in San Diego coming back from deployment. But Sarah and Gerry made it back safe and sound and we were so thrilled that they did. Then the thrill and adventure of making my first turkey began. I was so stressed in the morning, but as the day progressed I became more excited about this adventure. However, when I started planning this big dinner, I didn't realize I would be overcome with the bug to make everything. I wanted to make the turkey, pies, grandma's rolls, and all the other minor stuff. So I decided the rolls would have to wait for another year. I made pies on Wednesday night. Do get to excited they were simple pie recipes that I know, and there was no pumpkin pie because nobody would have eaten it. And I roasted a turkey between those two things I satisfied my needs of cooking and baking; which I do love to do. All in all 3 1/2 hours later we had a fabulous turkey and fixings. I couldn't have asked for a better Thanksgiving than being in Utah with family. Later we went and saw "Bolt" at the local theater. I highly recommend it the pigeons and hamster make the show and it is hilarious, either that or I am crazy. It was a great Thanksgiving and I can't wait to do it again now that I know I can do it on my own with out family surrounds us and we survived. My next adventure, black Friday shopping here I come I can't wait. ttyl

Welcome Back

2008-11-26T16:12:00.000-08:00

Just a quick shout out to all the boys from the USS Ronald Reagan who just returned from their six month deployment. Welcome home and we missed you all. Can't wait to hang out. Thank you for your service!!

Making Friends

2008-11-26T16:06:00.000-08:00

The other night we had our friends Daniel and Julie over. Daniel just got back from a six month deployment so we haven't seen him for a while. Its nice having all the guys back, Paul loves having some males around instead of all the females. However, the babies are getting acquainted. These pictures are priceless to me. Emma is six months old and just looks at Sydney like come on lets play, and Syd being two months old just looks at Emma and stares like she is crazy. This is what happens when we stood them by each other. Emma try to reach for Sydney alot so I stuck Syds hand out for Emma to get the fill for. Its fun having the girls together.

Growing Baby

2008-11-26T16:00:00.000-08:00

Here are some new pictures of Sydney. She is growing like a weed and becoming all sorts of fun. She has found her tongue and loves to stick it out and also put her hands in her mouth as well as my fingers. She is developing her sounds more everyday and loves her musical toys. She likes to try and sit and stand with our help of course. And fortunately for us, she sleep through the night all last week, but we haven't been lucky this week. I can't believe she is two months old. She goes to the Docs. Dec 1st for her two month check up so I will let you all know then how big she has gotten. But enjoy the photos, I took her outside for some pictures with leaves and she loves being outside. To bad it is getting cold and rainy these days. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Movie Time

2008-11-15T19:16:00.000-08:00

Well we made our first outing to the movies since Sydney was born. Its crazy to think that we haven't been to a movie in almost 7 weeks, but between all the traveling we have done, Paul's school, Church calling, and a new baby there hasn't been much time for the movies. Needless to say it was good to see a movie again and good thing it was a free movie on base. Both Paul and Sydney slept through the movie. I guess everything is catching up to Paul, it was a funny thing to look down and see Sydney sleeping on my shoulder and look over to see Paul sleeping in the chair next to me. It made for a fun afternoon.

Veteran's Day Weekend

2008-11-12T20:58:00.000-08:00

Well after Paul was taken of the list for a det for an air show down in Vegas. We canceled our plans of going to Vegas for a week. Last minute late Saturday night we got a call from Paul's parents saying the family was going down to St. George and would love for us to come. We rushed around doing laundry, homework, and packing and left early Sunday morning.

We had such a blast and even though it was a ton of driving for being there for a few days it was worth every minute. Paul and I had a break from parenting between Grandma Jan and Sydney's Aunts. They take turn telling her which one is her favorite. Paul and I had the opportunity to play with our nephew's and run a few errands with out Sydney making it the first time we both left Sydney; man that moment was packed with anxitey. On Tuesday morning before we headed out for our eight hour drive we went to the St. George Temple and got a few family pictures. It was such a great weekend we wouldn't have been able to make it with out the help of family which we are so thankful for and owe them big time. It was good to also celebrate the service of Paul and his Grandpa for Veterans day.

What a great holiday weekend. Thanks for all of the service our military buddies do and for all those who service. We love you all!!

Halloween

2008-11-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

On Friday Paul's Squadron opened up to the families so that the kids could come trick or treat. I dressed Sydney up in a little ghost outfit to show her off to the guys and to take them their candy to hand out. Paul and I walked around the different shops trick or treating with her. It was so fun, we took no candy and she slept through the entire thing, but it was fun to do it with her and to see the cute kids. These are the few guys who were in the shop when we were ready to leave. They are a bunch of characters.

First Sunday

2008-10-26T21:18:00.000-07:00

So today was Sydney's first day at church. She did very well and I only spent Sunday school nursing and changing her.

I just had to get some pictures of her. The dress that she is wearing is one that my grandmother crocheted for me when I was a baby. My mom preserved it very well and now I have the luxury of letting my little girl wear the same dress I wore.

Early morning casuality

2008-10-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

Well Paul had the morning shift last night and unfortunately for him Sydney had a major blow out. So to my surprise this morning while I was feeding and holding her I was looking at her new outfit and was thinking something didn't look right. This is originally what I saw.

So when I went to go change her diaper I found that Paul had left her socks on with her outfit that had footies, and then the onesise that he had pick wasn't a plain white one. It was one I would put her in to wear for the day. And to make it even funnier, he put it on backwards and only buttoned two of the three buttons. I just died laughing when I finally figured out what was going on. I just couldn't resist the pictures. I thought it was cute that his first time dressing her and this is what we got. But in his defense he says it was dark and he wouldn't turn a light on. I guess we need to practice the daddy dressing Sydney part of life.

Halloween Fun

2008-10-26T20:56:00.000-07:00

Friday night a couple of guys from the squadron decided they wanted to carve pumpkins and since we have the new baby in the group our house was the host house. It was so much fun. Sydney and I enjoyed the day dressing her up in her different Halloween outfits and making pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. It felt so good to be able to accomplish a task such as making cookies. After work the guys and spouse came over and the pumpkin carving began. So here are the end results.

This is her "Trick or Treat" outfit when we were making cookies. Thankfully she slept through most of the baking so I could get it done.Outfit number two, her ghost onesise. This outfit and the one above are courtesy of her Uncle Curtis; he felt bad for making mommy cry one night and went and bought Sydney a bunch of outfits and other stuff.My little pumpkin!!!The beginning of carving pumpkins: Brett, Brandon, and Cubby are all creating there masterpieces. And below is the final masterpieces!!

Story Time

2008-10-02T18:31:00.000-07:00

So I couldn't resist. As you all know Paul has his own way of doing things. Half the time I just let him do it. Today he got home from work and it was just Sydney and Myself. My parents who are currently in town went to dinner and a movie to give Paul and I some alone time before he left for Key West for two weeks.

I looked over and this is what I saw. Paul had grabbed one of his books " The Red Badge of Courage", and had begun reading it aloud to Sydney. Lucky for him she was in her cute alert mood and was sitting there very contently drifting in and out of sleep. I couldn't resist the picuters and at four days old I just laugh and thinking they are both in heaven. Paul reading to his little princess and dancing to music with her and she hanging out with daddy. It can't get more precious than that.

Welcome Sydney Nelson

2008-10-02T08:53:00.001-07:00

We are proud to announce the birth of our beautiful little girl. Sydney Nelson was born September 29, 2008 at 12:49 am. She weighed 8 lbs 15 oz and is 20 inches long.
She has been an amazing baby so far and we love having her hear. After crazy drama with the hosptial and being sent home so many time when the time finally came for her to enter into this world, everything went fast and painful till the famous and wonder drug called an epidural.
While this is a great experience I am not ready to go through any of that again. But I can't help but find myself sitting staring at her thinking how beautiful she is and blessed I am.
These are just a few pictures and I will post more later. Enjoy them and we can't wait to have you all meet her.

7 Days Over Due

2008-09-26T14:40:00.001-07:00

Okay the saga of the never ending pregnancy continues. Just to let you all know that today I have non-stress test and an amniotic fluid test done this morning. These test are done at 41 weeks to make sure that the baby is still getting enough nutrients and blood flow. Unfortunately for me Sydney woke up and began to be her usual active self, so they sent me home today again and would not induce me.

On the bright side I guess, I have an induction date scheduled for September 30th (tuesday) at 6:00 am. That is all contingent upon the fact that I don't go into labor on my own over the weekend, which everyone is crossing there fingers that I do.

Lets hope we still have a September baby on our hands!!

Absoultely Crushed

2008-09-24T13:35:00.000-07:00

So if you are wondering the reason for the title, I will tell you why. I had a doctors appointment this morning and got great news. I was dialated to a 2 and 70% effaced. The doctor wouldn't let me go home and was going to start me and deliver me today. I was so excited to think that my little girl would finally be here. They sent me up to labor and delivery immediately.

Low and behold to my surprise an hour and a half later I was being sent home!!.... I know what the freak. Turns out all the beds were full and the two labors going on weren't going fast enough. Now had I been a complicated pregnancy or at risk they would have made me stay but since I wasn't and only 40 weeks and 5 days they sent me home. The only somewhat positive thing is if a bed become available they are supposed to call, or I go back on Friday for a stress and fluid test at which point I will be 41 weeks so they would possibly induce me.

So my hopes were lifted and now squashed, looks like there will alot more walking today and tonight probably mixed with more crying. But I am sure Sydney will eventually get here. Hopefully next post will be a picture of her, but until then I am still prego and uncomfortable and officially broken.

DUE

2008-09-19T15:59:00.001-07:00

Well for all those who might be wondering what our progress is with the baby, it is a big fat ZERO. Today is my due date, and I feel like a million bucks minus a little soreness but nothing that has been holding me back from scrubbing floors, tubs and whatever else I can find to clean.

I thought I would be more anxious today to have her here, but honestly its just another day and I don't really care. I hope that's not bad to say. But we will see how my feelings are tomorrow towards everything. However, my mom gets here tomorrow and I am excited for her to be here. I just hope that Sydney comes a few days at least before Paul leaves. He is heading to Key West, Florida for two weeks on Oct. 4th, which is almost two weeks from now.

But all in all we are doing great and just waiting for the little one to arrive. We will keep you all posted.

Excited

2008-08-28T14:18:00.001-07:00

So I know it is a few months away still, but I couldn't resist.

I broke down and bought Sydney her first Halloween outfilt. She will be a pumpkin, I am so excited to put her in the outfit. So I had to show you all what it looked like.

Finished

2008-08-28T14:18:00.000-07:00

With three weeks left till my due date, we have finally finished putting together Sydney's room. I thought I would share some pictures. I had a hard time trying to decide an easy way to decorate without being able to paint walls and making it to difficult to move in about eight months or so. Needless to say we are so pleased with the results and it just looks nice. Now we have to wait for a munchkin to fill the room.

Utah Trip Long Ago...

2008-08-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

Okay I finally got some of the long awaited pictures from our trip to Utah. These are pictures from my baby shower and our trip to Kennecott Copper Mine with our Nephews. I think Paul and I took a total of 1 picture our whole trip so I've had to get pictures from other people.

The picture to the left is of my mother and grandmother. Below is my sister in laws and mother in law.

The picture to top is of Jaxson and Treyson in an old rail cart used for hauling copper at the mine. Below is Hunter standing by a statue of a mine worker.

Embarassing Moment

2008-08-12T10:58:00.001-07:00

Well folks we all know life is full of embarassing moments and lucky for me I managed to squeeze another one into my life. On Saturday I was up in Fresno with Sarah and her parents picking her sister up for EFY and then just hanging out for the day. I was so excited to start the day off good and not feeling sick, so I thought I was off to a good start. After picking Staci up we went to Denny's for breakfast.

Like any normal pregnant lady I found myself having to go to the bathroom so I got up and headed to the restroom. No sooner than I walking into the bathroom and got in the stall, Sarah came in the bathroom. Her exact words were, "Brianna, your pants are torn." I looked down and sure enough I had a tear in my favorite Bermuda shorts from the pocket all the way down my thigh. I could have fit my head through it, I just sat there and laughed. My first thought was oh, man that is the one thing I don't have an extra pair of shorts. Luckily, Sarah being freezing in mid-summer had a jacket. I wrapped it around my waist and off we went to finish breakfast and headed to Walmart to buy more shorts.

I have no clue how long I walked around with this hole in my pants. I sure wish I had a picture, my head fit through the hole. Sarah's parents where amazed at how well I handled the situation, but honestly when you have done as many stupid things as I have and your pregnant never knowing what is going to happen you have to learn to role with the punches. I just joked about it and thought I had a good memory know. I am just thankful Sarah had that jacket otherwise breakfast would have occurred in the bathroom.

Paul's New Pet

2008-07-28T15:24:00.000-07:00

Yah Right!! Well as soon as we returned home from a whirlwind trip to Utah, Paul was leaving a day later for the Stake Scout Camp. Since Paul is in the Stake Young Mens he had to put together and attend the Scout Camp that happened last weekend. He had so much fun and it was good for him to see the camp be such a success, I am so proud of him for pulling it off among finishing a semester of school, traveling, and dealing with a pregnant emotional wife. He managed to bring back some cool pictures of a huge snake. I guess it was a merit badge they had at the camp so he was raving about all the different kinds of snakes. As for me I am glad that he doesn't want one for a pet there is no way it would be allowed in the house.

Sydney's Debut

2008-06-26T20:41:00.000-07:00

So today I had the opportunity to go have a 4D ultrasound done. It was pretty amazing so I thought I would share a few images. I am putting some of the better ones up so that hopefully you can all see them. I think unless you know what to look for it is hard to see. The tech doing the ultrasound kept saying that she has fat cheeks, is stubborn, and hates being on camera. That is to much like her mother.

This picture is of her side profile. You can see an eye, her nose and mouth. Oh and fat cheek. If your lost look in the middle of the picture she looks like she is resting her head on someones shoulder. It is the best one we have.This shot is basically a really good view of her nose. The tech kept reassuring me her nose wasn't going to be the world's largest nose. I am not to worried. The tech also kept referring the the baby as Yoda, because she likes to scrunch her face up.This was one of the last photo's and you can tell by her big frown that she is ready to be done. She was sick of the tech pushing and trying to get her to move around in the right positions and so was I. All in all I am glad that they confirmed it was 100% a girl and we have a very active healthy baby. So we will see her in 12 weeks!!

Updates

2008-06-24T14:58:00.001-07:00

So a few people are wondering what is going on in our life. Paul and I are enjoying life, however if you ask me pregnancy isn't the best but hey I only have 13 weeks left. It is so weird that so much time has already past. I am currently 27 weeks pregnant, enjoy the hot weather and swollen feet. So far everything is looking good and little Sydney likes to move a ton. By the way that is the name we are thinking of for our little girl Sydney Nelson.

On to other things, I will be going to Utah in less then a week. I am so excited, my baby brother is coming home from his mission in Virginia. I fly in on the first of July and he gets home on the second. After that the fam and I will travel to San Diego for a cousin's wedding, so much for getting out of California for a while. Paul will then join us in Utah on July 15 and on the 22nd we will head back to California. I am excited to see old friends and family. So I am sure there will be plenty of pictures from my trips and that will please all those who want to see belly pictures, but just to let you all know. I try and avoid the camera as much as possible. I feel like I am getting bigger by the day, but that goes with the territory. Can't wait to see you all in about a week!!!

Our Visitor

2008-06-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

Last week we had the opportunity to have Paul's sister come stay with us. It was so much fun, if you talk to her she will say she learned about the navy way of life,"Never to be able to have definite plans." Things change daily and Paul's schedule has been insane lately, like this morning he was up at 4:00am to be at work by 5:00 am, poor guy.

Anyway back to Amy, her plans didn't work out like planned but we managed to have fun. We visited the Fresno Temple one day and low and behold I forgot my recommend and we were to far from home to turn around to get it, but they still let us in to do the work.

We spent alot of time find and buying fruit and Paul and Amy enjoyed eating the yummy fresh fruit. We managed to spare some and make fresh blueberry jam. That was a first for me and it was actually fun once I got over the grossness of what smashed blueberries look like. I think I might try making raspberry jam next. Amy has created a monster.

On Saturday we visited a herb farm, it was very interesting. I never knew you could do soooo many thing with a lavender plant. We smelt alot of different herbs and tried some samples. Some were good and others plan nasty. It was fun and hot so we were relieved to get in the car with A/C. A few hours later I took Amy over to the squadron to see all of Paul's plans and what he does. I have to admit it was fun seeing his squadron again, but this time with him working. However, I was rushed to get home and in the cool air, the temperature read 113 degrees. Holy cow thats hot, and being prego I was done for the day not to mention my feet were so swollen.

We had so much fun playing games, watching Star Trek, chatting, working on a puzzle and doing whatever else. Now that she is gone we miss her especially me during the day with all my friends currently gone back to their home states. I guess we will see her in a few weeks back in Utah.

It's a GIRL

2008-05-07T20:03:00.001-07:00

Hey just letting you all know that we are having a baby girl and couldn't be more excited. We haven't picked any names yet, they keep changing and what I like I end up not liking a few weeks later. Paul is excited to have a little princess around. I am just thrilled over all!!

New Do

2008-05-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

So after complaining that my hair was too long and pulling it back for a week plus straight, I half way decided it was time to cut it off. Paul drove me to the Salon and told me I had two minutes to decide what I was going to do. I was very hesitant because for the first time in years I didn't have my good friend back home to cut it or the trust of my cousin. Yikes I was scared, but the results are great. I love it so much, now it is short and easy to do and so much lighter. I hadn't cut my hair since October the last time Kari cut it so it was down past my shoulder blades, but I love this new change. However, I do have to say I still miss the comfort of having people you know cutting it, miss you Angela and Kari.

Now I am just bored, but if I can say so myself these pictures don't do it justic. Oh and a side note, I tried taking a picture of my very little almost no belly and it was awful so you will all have to wait longer. If you don't believe me just ask Maggie she said it is just starting. Peace out.

New Crib

2008-05-03T19:46:00.000-07:00

Well I thought I would post a quick picture of our New Crib. Thanks to many thing like Grandma Van (wow that sounds weird mom!), a sale, and left over Christmas gift cards we couldn't pass up the opportunity to buy the crib. Plus I have been itching to buy stuff for the baby but not knowing the sex still; throws a cramp in my style of shopping. So this is what it will look like minus the beding.

Last Weekends Fun

2008-05-03T19:37:00.000-07:00

Well I know I am a little late in posting this, which pretty much means I am LAME (But I admit it!!). We decided to advantage of the 90 plus weather and have a little BBQ and a game of Croquet. It was so last minute we ended up having meat for Sunday for another BBQ because none of us know how to plan. I took some pictures of the crew so you could enjoy.
Round one of BBQ and this was after we all had eaten. Getting started, we soon learned that the grass was to long here so it made for an interesting hole, just ask Gerry.This cracks me up. Gerry was making a path in the grass so he could get past the first hole. He figured it he tried hard enough and hit the ball good it would go forward make the turn and go through the loop. Needless to say it only went forward and he was still three holes behind everyone else. Thats when I would have cheated!!This is Julie, what a troop. She has like 4 weeks until she is due. Sara and I are trying to get her to go into labor before the Gerry and Dan (Sara and Julie's husbands) leave on deployment, which is three days before Julie's due date. But we are still waiting.

Utlrasound Pics

2008-04-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

Well folks, I guess this is what you get when I get bored. I realize that as I promised a good friend I haven't posted any of my ultrasound pictures. Sorry if they are a little blury, but you can still see the baby at least.

Well it took 17 weeks and I think I finally can't fit into my pants anymore. I thought of taking a picture of me but when I looked in the mirror I thought It could wait another week or so and maybe my belly will be better. But all in all I drug Paul out for a shopping trip today, he did so good and I really appreciate him going with me.

Disappointment or False Alarm

2008-04-09T17:18:00.000-07:00

Well so as the tech doing my ultrasound so nicely informed me today, "No you are not going to find out what you are having today." I am only sixteen weeks so they won't risk telling me and it not being right. So now we have to wait another two weeks and hope they tell us on April 22nd. Not to worry, I will keep you updated on all news.

Sorry to be the bear of bad news, trusted me I was plenty disappointed. But we got a cute picture of the baby with its legs straight up in the air. It is priceless, so I am stoked about that and for now the baby will remain an "It".

Check Back Tomorrow

2008-04-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I just wanted to pass a little tid bit of information along. Paul and I might be finding out what the sex of the baby is tomorrow if all goes well. So check back tomorrow evening to find and if we aren't lucky hopefully we will find out on the 22nd of April. I am so excited. I think we are having a boy and Paul thinks a girl so we will see.

Also for Corinne, soon there should be a picture of a barely there bump. Its not much but I know you have been dying to see a picture of my belly.

Weekend Adventure

2008-03-24T17:04:00.001-07:00

This past week Paul and I had the opportunity to have my parents in town. We loved every minute of it and wish they were still here. We hung around town a lot and just caught up, but on Saturday we took a couple of fun adventures. We first started off by visiting Paul's squadron, I think my Dad really enjoyed seeing all the jets. The company my Dad works for produces alot of the military weapons, so Paul and him had fun talking about engines and missiles and what not.

Our next adventure was up to Sequoia National Park. Upon first entering the park we saw a bobcat and then some deer, so the wildlife was great and was later accompanied by some deadlife of squirrels. Finally after a few hours of driving we got to the big Sequoia trees, those suckers are huge. It was our first time seeing them and it was fun, we then proceeded to hike around in the snow so we could get pictures. Who would have know there was still snow up there, not me.

From there it was on to General Sherman; for those of you like myself who don't know what General Sherman is, it is like the biggest tree known. If I remember it might not be the tallest but definitely the widest, but don't quote me on that. However, the sure hugeness of the tree was amazing. After driving and hiking in the snow to those spots, myself along with everyone else was exhausted, and in our effort to get there not knowing what to expect we were all starving. So we found the first place we could and ate, which was good.

We then just crashed once we got home. On Sunday we went to church with my family, it was fun for them to meet our friends and see our ward. Afterwards Paul and I surprised them by hiding Easter basket for them, ourselves, and Sarah since Gerry is gone. My mom helped me cook a nice ham and company or funeral potatoes (which ever you call them). It turned out good and was my first time cooking each; thanks for the help mom. Then we sat around the rest of the night playing card games, which was a blast. So the weekend was a awesome overall and we can't wait to see them in June/July.

Another Pregnancy Story

2008-03-15T18:55:00.000-07:00

So I am sure everyone is sick of hearing about me having morning sickness and a cold, but yet again lucky for my as my mother informed me I have another pregnancy story. So now that the drama of it is over and I have calmed down I thought I would pass it along.

Just as things started getting good and I thought I was at the end of the morning sickness another event occurred. Late Thursday night as we were settling down to go to bed I decided to go to the bathroom, much to my surprise I began bleeding a ton. I freaked out called Paul out of bed and demanded he get the packet of Base Hospital numbers we had been given. I just kept muttering to myself, "I am having a miscarriage." I couldn't believe it I had gone 12 weeks without any problems and now I thought I was having a miscarriage. The hospital told me to come in immediately. So after rushing in we had to wait for a half an hour to be seen, I was going crazy!!! Then the doctor finally came I did a urine sample and had blood taken. Then it came time to find the babies heartbeat. They found mine with no problem, after what felt like forever and I am sure it was about five minutes and lots of searching, the babies heartbeat was finally found. With relief I just began to cry, I didn't think such a little sound could bring so much relief in the situation.

After returning home and being discharged at 1:30 am I think I got about three hours of solid sleep, still worrying about bleeding everywhere and the baby. I got up the next morning and went to the OB/GYN clinic for a follow up and was informed sometimes that just happens in pregnancy and was reassured I was okay. By the time I got to work it had been 10 hours since the whole ordeal began; I had urine and blood taken, two ultrasounds, two physicals, and about three hours of sleep. Of course Paul sleep like a baby when it was all over. Everyone at work thought I was crazy for coming to work and said that I should be at home resting, but all I could think about is getting my time card turned. Everyone thought I was crazy and I probably should have stated home, the recovery of it all hasn't been much fun but at least everything is okay and now I have a week off from work for Spring Break to rest!!! So all in all baby is doing great.

Best Day Ever!!

2008-03-11T15:00:00.000-07:00

Oh, gosh I know this isn't much, but I finally got my Girl Scout Cookies today. That makes the day complete and now I can kick my feet up and enjoy some yummy cookies. Hooray for thin mints and more.

Spring Break Countdown

2008-03-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, I never thought being out of school I would be so excited for Spring Break to come; but I am. My number one reason, my family is coming out for Easter and I am so excited to see them. Pregnancy has been wearing me out and I just want to see my mom and dad. Reason number two, no more mean teenager. Holy cow, I hope I wasn't as vicious and rude when I was 12-15 years old as my kids at school are. It will be nice to have a week off from them. Reason number three, enjoying the sunny California weather. While I am missing my snow, I do have to admit that it is nice to be in carpi's in Mid March. I am loving this weather. Plus not to mention a week off from Young Women's; that is a double edge sword. I love my girls but we have been so busy lately we are all excited for the break. Especially after today.

In our Ward today, the whole Young Women's Presidency had to speak. I started the meeting off with a talk that went fairly well, once I finally made it there. I was cutting it close thanks to the baby. I have decided this child hates mornings as much as I do, it is making me miserable in the mornings, not to mention now I have a cold on top of all that. So after practically running into church and praying I didn't get pulled over on the way, I made it and gave my talk fabulously if I do say so myself, which is amazing because I hate speaking. So at the rate I am going I will probably be speaking in a six months to a year again.

So now that that talk is over, bring on Spring Break. :)

Bump Update

2008-02-19T19:23:00.001-08:00

Well today was our first doctors visit, all went well and we are excited to pass the news on to everyone. We have one baby with a very good heart beat, everything looks good for now and in 5 weeks I will check back in with the doctors. I was so relieved that everything checked out. Hopefully in another month or so I will start to feel better and stop spending my mornings over the toilet. But lucky for me Paul has been great through the whole thing so far!!!

Parents to Be

2008-01-28T21:23:00.000-08:00

Well folks its offically, Paul and I are pregnant. It took a lot less time than I was planning on, but none the less we are very excited. The baby is due mid September, we will keep everything updated when we get our first doctors appointment under our belts. I am six weeks along and feeling the morning sickness, but thus is life. So we are thrilled as are the Grandparents to be, we will keep all updated.

Holiday Photo's

2008-01-14T15:21:00.001-08:00

Well I know it is a little late, but I promised some pics. So here they are in all their glory!! In our family we play a white elephant game every year. Everyone always laughs because the white Angel that Paul is holding has been passed around for 13+ years. If you notice its head has fallen off. So in order to retire the as we like to call it "Dirty Angel", my brother went to the DI and found our new family Dirty Angel. So we will see who gets it next year!! Paul didn't really get it but it was still fun!
The last major holiday for Elder Davis Van Wagoner as a cardboard cut out thanks to my wedding. Luckily for him he has been present at almost ever holiday. Can't wait for him to come home in June!!
The whole Crew on Christmas morning the tradition family picture on the steps. Dad is missing because he is taking the picture.
Here are during the christmas story. I looked druged, for some reason 7:30 was still to early even though we had a long day ahead of us.
My brother laughed so hard because for Christmas he got Paul a hoodie and a shirt and for me he got an electric screwdriver. Curtis just told me that should be the other way around so wrong. But hey someone has to do it.

The Wasatch Mountains during winter one of my favorite scenes!!

Family pictures, this is one of the many of Paul and I. Might I add it was snowing and 19 degrees outside. Cold!!

The fam minus one. Dad, Mom, Cutis, Me, and Paul!

The Boys

Just us girls

The First Day is the Worst

2008-01-03T15:54:00.000-08:00

So for any of you have a had your husband leave for an extend amount of time know how hard the first day is. I always think each time he leaves it will get easier and easier, but somehow it never does. For us military wives we know that he won't be gone just a day or two, it is a matter of two weeks to six months or longer sometimes. I think what makes it the worst in not knowing the exact date he is coming home.

So you can only do one this make it through the first day and then you are usually okay. You usually drop him off at the airport or pick up point in the morning trying not to cry, but letting a few tears shed. Then in my case this morning you go to the hospital for more tests that you wish he was there for. You find yourself in a slump. Trying to get busy but knowing all along that he won't be beside you for a while is hard. So cry a little more and get on with the day. That is how your survive, ocasionally you wish your best friends who you have either moved away from or have moved away from you are here. But you always cherish the friends you have around you. I think that is how I make it through.

Maybe one day it will be easier but as for now I am thankful to have a job and wonderful friends surronding me, but I do miss those who have moved and family also.

On With the New Year

2008-01-02T14:09:00.000-08:00

Well as the New Year begins, so do our lives begin again. The Holiday season is over and I find myself thinking of setting New Years resolutions or having Paul telling me to. I don't believe in resolutions, they never last, but that is probably my mind set.

For those of you who are interested we had a wonderful time back home in Utah for Christmas. It was one of the best Christmas's I have ever had and I think that was a combination of many thing. One being a newly wed and having our first Christmas which was priceless and the other was being home with family who we hadn't seen some of them for many months. But all in all we were glad to get back to Lemoore, which honestly really surprised me that I would ever say that. I guess deep down somewhere inside me this has become a place I like and it has become home. I think it is the great friends and house we have. Sorry there are now Christmas pictures yet my mother hasn't sent them too me.

We then celebrate New Years with a bunch of friends on base here and it was a blast. I never knew men could be so good at Mad Gab and that women just sit and laugh because it sounds like Chinese people talking. It was a great night and we managed to stay up until midnight.

And now the New Year has started. I find myself cleaning a bunch and organizing. Paul has got me in that mood and he keeps consolidating his things that are packed away. It is another one of he wonderfully cute, yet weird ways of helping me ease into the thought of become pregnant sometime in the coming months. We are also preparing for Paul to leave for the month of January, he will be spending about 2-3 weeks in Yuma, AZ and then a week on the USS Ronald Regan. I will be glad when he returns, hopefully it goes fast. So this is how we are kicking the New Year off cleaning and Paul leaving, real eventful. :)

Exterior / Interior Illumination

2007-12-15T18:17:00.000-08:00

With the Holidays among us, I have been so busy in trying to get everything accomplished before leaving home to Utah that I haven't had a chance to post pictures of our tree. Thanks to Corinne's reminder I am finally getting around to it, but this post will be short because we have to run out the door to a party tonight.

This is our our little Christmas tree. I thought it looked pretty good, until I took pictures of it. Now I see the big gapping holes and I think just cringe. My strive to prefection once again has fallen short. I tooke pictures from two different angles. I love the tree better with the lights off. We opted for colored lights and it kind of drowns out the pretty red and gold decorations.

Paul also insisted on putting his star trek ornament upon the tree. At first I was hoping he wouldn't find it. Once he did I said he could put it at the back of the tree so that no one could see it. But then I found a big hole and said he could put it there. He was so proud that it made it to the front of the tree and it still worked; it blinks lights. I don't know if you will be able to see it, but it looks kind of like a plate of flat stone from these angles nothing much to it the picture I took turned out blurry and I didn 't want to take another. I know lazy!!!

The next picture is of our stocking, which might I add took about a half an hour to pick out at Target. My idea of a stocking is something cute with a design, Paul's idea is blue, simple, and nice to the touch. Looks like he won. Actually he won all the debates that trip; the stocking, the tree skirt, and the decorations (because I was taking to long). The little Santa Claus down in the corner is one of the three decorations my mom sent us the other day. He is so adorable and we have a moose and snowman to match. Thank goodness for mom and her sending us some decor, our place is a little bare, but we are slowly building.

Exterior Illumination is one of my favorite things of the holiday. Most likely due to Clark Griswald and Christmas Vacation!! Any Van Wagoner knows that will be planning every Christmas Eve at Grandma Van's. So light are ingrained in me so I was very disappointed when Paul said we wouldn't have any lights. The reason for this is he didn't want to put them up. I finally couldn't handle it anymore and went and bought some. It turned out to be more of a challenge than I thought, so they don't look so great, but I am excited to have just a few. I think my favorite are the snowman. Maybe next year we will have better lights. I told Paul he will have to face the music and put lights up on day!!

Well I will be off but Merry Christmas to everyone. We can't wait to see those we will be seeing and hopefully see everyone else sooner rather than later. We have be blessed this year more than ever and are grateful to have one another finally!!

Thanksgiving Survived!!

2007-11-27T19:11:00.000-08:00

Well after a wonderful eight hour drive to St. George, we finally got to enjoy some quality time with our family. We met up with Paul's entire family for the Thanksgiving weekend, it was a blast. This year they decided to try something different, the family went to the small (very small) town of Springdale, UT for dinner at Switchback Lodge. What made it fun was that this lodge is at the foot of Zions National Park. While the Canyons and trees were beautiful, it didn't feel much like Thanksgiving. Imagine eating Turkey dinner buffet style with fish, ham, roast beef, and turkey. The food was good but I sure did miss that home cooked meal. Luckily for Paul and I we went over to my aunts house that night and had another Thanksgiving dinner with them. Boy was that fun and you can never get too much of Grandma's rolls yummy.

Friday morning, I woke up and went shopping at 5:00 am with my aunt and cousin in law. That was such an experience for me, but was so much fun. Oddly enough, I still want to be shopping. Later that day we packed Paul's family back up in the cars and head back out to Zions National Park for pictures, hiking, and sight seeing. That night we went to the Joseph Smith movie at the St. George temple. Lucky for us when we got there we saw the christmas lights turned on for the temple grounds. It was so pretty and a very good movie. If you haven't scene it we recommend it.

Saturday, we headed down to Vegas so that Paul could finally see his long awaited Star Trek Experience. If any of you now Paul, you can only imagine what he was like. It was like Christmas morning for him and his sister. I just laughed most of the time, and amazing enough I enjoyed the Star Trek Experience. Thanks mom for making me watch it all those years; she prepared me for marriage in more ways than one.

Sunday, was the long drive home. But we made it home and are back to the grind of things, plus getting ready for Christmas and setting up the house. That is my favorite part lately.

What a great weekend plus or minus a few dramas that you had to be there for. But it was so good to be in Utah and with family for a while. We sure do love them!!!