Our Little Family

Wheeler Farm

2010-08-21T16:19:00.001-04:00

We decided to get some pictures taken of all the grandchildren with my parents since we aren't together all that often. My sister's friend took the pics. She made it fast and bearable for all the kids. A chicken decided to come up and get in the middle of things and it freaked Oscar right out, plus he had just had his 2 year checkup and got a couple of shots so he wasn't in the best of moods. I think the pictures turned out cute of all the kids!

Afterwards we walked around and looked at the animals. The kids got to see pigs, horses, cows, chickens, ducks, rabbits and tractors. Not as exciting as I thought it would be but they didn't seem to mind. As long as they were outside being able to run around it seemed like everyone was happy.

We sure had a good time while Aunt Jennica was in town! We are going to miss her and her cute boys! Thanks for all the fun times!

Oscar Turns 2

2010-08-15T14:34:00.000-04:00

The Birthday Boy!

What a fun day (or I should say night as I spent all day preparing for the party). Oscar had a Curious George Birthday Party. We enjoyed navajo tacos, cake and ice cream. He loved opening his presents and was so excited with everything he got. He is a lucky boy! He ran and played the night away. I can't believe he is already 2. Where did the time go! He is such a sweet boy. Deke and I talk every night before we go to bed how lucky we are to have him and how happy he makes us. He is the BEST thing we have ever done! Our life is much brighter with him in it.

Here are a few pics from the event.

He loved unwrapping the presents and did pretty good at staying focused.

Making sure he got EVERYTHING out of the sack.

Giving George (from Matthews Family) a ride on his new tricycle.

Curious George Cake (didn't turn out as cute as the pic, but it was our first time making fondant.)

Enjoying himself some cake and ice cream

Running around having a good time messy face and all!

I am so thankful that my sister Jen came and helped me in the kitchen ALL afternoon. We were busy putting together the birthday cake and cooking all the scones. If she wouldn't of been here I don't know what I would of done. I wasn't expecting everything to be so time consuming. Everything turned out Great, so it was worth all the work! Thanks to everyone that came and celebrated with us!

A Fun Filled Month of August

2010-08-11T22:31:00.001-04:00

August was been a busy but fun month! Oscar and I started the month off taking a Mom and Tot swimming class. I didn't know what to expect and was a little disappointed with it at first. Oscar loved going to the pool everyday for 2 weeks but the last week the big pools heater went out so we never spent much time in that pool. It just got a little crazy in the little kid pool because ALL the kids didn't want to get in the big pool and would somehow end up over with the little kids making for a crazy little pool. Some of Oscar's favorite things to do is kick his legs, blow bubbles and spin around fast. For the most part he loved it. And it was nice to have something going on everyday plus he came home had lunch and took a long nap which was nice for mom!

My sister Jennica came into town from Washington with her 3 boys for 2 weeks, so we had tons of activities for the cousins to do together. It was fun to take Oscar to go and see a few things. We took the kids to the aquarium in Sandy. He loved watching the big fish and the penguins. I think he just liked walking around and acting like he was one of the big kids.

We took the kids to the Gateway Discovery Museum. Bonus for us it was free that day some business was sponsoring everyone that day. The kids had fun playing with all the exhibits. We waited in line FOREVER, so everyone could get their own custom balloon (so not worth it!). Overall a very fun way to spend an afternoon.
Oscar is so lucky to have such fun cousins! They love him so much and are so good to play with him and include him. He seriously thinks that he is just as big as they are. A bonus for me waiting so long to have kids is now my nieces and nephews are old enough to take care of my little boy.

4th of July Parade

2010-07-10T10:37:00.002-04:00

Oscar's favorite summer time treat, Otter Pops

Don't mind the hat that is a little bit small. Any protection from the sun is good right.

Oscar's favorite part of the parade was the Horses. He didn't like the sirens at all this year (they didn't seem to bother him last year). We enjoyed 2 BBQ's and hanging out with our families! When it was time for fireworks we didn't feel like dealing with traffic so we just did some at my parents house. Oscar HATED them! He freaked out! We were glad we didn't take him to see the big ones at Sandy City. I think he was so tired that he just couldn't enjoy the fireworks. Oh well there is always the 24th right.

I didn't want Oscar to have the same 4th of July shirt as all the other kids and found a tutorial on a blog for this one and decided to make it for him. I loved it! Not that I am a little bias but I think he looked adorable!

Fun Day at the Pool

2010-07-08T18:37:00.004-04:00

Since Deke didn't have to work on Friday we decided it was time to head to the pool. Oscar loved the pool last year, so I was excited to take him. We went to a pool in Stansbury instead of the Peak. It had 2 different pools; a little one for the little kids that was only 1 feet deep and then a bigger pool. Oscar loved the little pool he could walk around in. We took him into the big pool and he didn't like it so much, the water was freezing! i was glad to get out with him and head back to the little kid pool. Since the big pool was so cold the little kid pool was so crowded with some older kids. The older kids were really cute with Oscar. They shared their rocket and asked him to say all sorts of words for them. He loved getting the attention. He was super excited when his cousin Kaylee showed up and wanted to be with her in the big pool, but Dad couldn't hold him just Kaylee. We will be heading back to the pool more this summer. I am going to sign us up for a Mom and Tot class which should be fun.

Oscar wanting to go to Kayle instead of being with Dad.

Can't get enough of this song!!

2010-03-29T14:58:00.003-04:00

Deke played this song for Oskie and me on Saturday and I seriously have listened to it 30 times! So catchy! It is from a group called Fun and the name of the song is "All the Pretty Girls". I totally dig the lead singers outfit :) (funny he even refers to a girl being stuck in the 80's in the song)

Books

2010-03-18T15:42:00.004-04:00

Last night after Oscar had a bath he wanted to read books. Oscar loves books. Most of the time he just wants to turn the pages but every once in a while he will sit through a whole book for me to read. Last night was one of those occasions. Deke always thinks it is funny to see Oscar with a binkie in his mouth so he gave him one last night. Oscar took a binkie for about the first month of his life and then has had nothing to do with it. So we always get a laugh when he puts it in his mouth. He looks pretty cute with it in. I surely don't want it to become a habit now though!

Leslie's Earworms brought to you by Deke.

2010-02-18T01:02:00.006-05:00

Oops it looks like someone's blog got hacked into, Leslie is sound asleep. I was wondering how long it would take her to notice me posting on it. In our little place there have been a few songs that are on heavy rotation because of Leslie and I wanted to share them with you.

Just to help you out an "Earworm" is a song that crawls in your ears and you can't get it out. These are the songs you find yourself singing over and over.

Phoenix -1901

Leslie and Oscar dance to this a couple times a night. Not only is it one of Leslie's favorite songs, but Oscar likes it too. Phoenix's album is solid and has a lot of other great songs, if you find this song to be catchy then check it out.

Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson - Relator

Both Leslie and I are big fans of this little album by Yorn and Johansson. Maybe it is the hook that gets everyone; whatever it is, I like it. Oscar has cut holes in the rug dancing to this little tune.

After Midnight Project - Take me home.

When I get into the car after Leslie is back from the gym this song is always blaring on the car's stereo. I'm wondering if I should be worried about this because all of these band members have lots of hair the opposite of me. Yes, Leslie likes some hard music I guess, but she doesn't go much harder then this. I'm surprised she isn't into Poison, Ratt, or Slaughter too.

DJ Earworm - United State of Pop 2009

Leslie was jamming out to this the other day, so I can't actually say it is played often. I thought I'd just throw it in to round off the post. I'm guessing Leslie will find this tomorrow and shoot me off a text about it, however, if I would have put this as one of her favorite song she would have deleted the whole post.

Deke

New Commitments

2010-02-15T10:03:00.003-05:00

My sister in law told me about this story of this little boy. What an amazing story! I found myself crying as his mom recounted the events that took place. I find myself making new resolves to be a better mother and not take any moments I have with my Oscar for granted!

My Valentines

2010-02-14T14:34:00.005-05:00

I sure do love my boys! They both make my heart bigger each day! They bring me so much joy, laughter and happiness. I feel so blessed to have them in my life. I have come to find out how much they are alike. It is kindof crazy! Physically they both have the bluest eyes, the same lips, the same skinny long toes (yuck!) and the same hairline (poor oskie!). As Oscars personality comes out more and more here are a few other similarities:

They both talk all the time. Oscar jabbers all day long and will throw out a few words here and there. But if you have been with my husband, you know he can go non-stop. One time when we were still dating we drove to Brigham City for his friends baby blessing and on the way up he talked the entire way up. As we got closer he looked at me and said you have been quiet. I said, I can't get a word in!

Deke could not LIVE without peanut butter and honey sandwiches. He let Oscar have his first bite the other day and Oscar almost ate the entire sandwich. Guess I will keep the cupboards stocked with PB and honey!

Deke has a LOVE for music. He is always surfing the internet in search of some little band who hasn't hit it big. He HATES the radio and most popular music. He loves live shows and could spend every night at a new show! Oscar has been sucked into Deke's love as well. Oscar will sit on his lap as he searches YouTube for any live concert of his new favorite band. At night we turn out all the lights and use Oskies light he got from Gma Maggie and dance around our place. Our own little club!
The other day Oscar out of the blue got a bloody noise. Deke gets these quite often in the winter time and appears his son is the same way!

Seriously way to many similarities! The list goes on....

I sure couldn't live without either of these guys in my life!! LOVE them!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T14:37:00.005-05:00

I have always loved Christmas time, but I must say that it is more exciting now that we have Oscar. I know he doesn't understand Santa and the excitement of the holiday but he still seemed to have a good time opening presents. He even got a little sad when a present was taken from him and given to another cousin at his grandparents house. Christmas morning was fun. After he got up he went straight for his gift from Grandma & Grandpa Larson and started playing with that. Santa brought him a Thomas the Train hut that as a tunnel leading into the hut. Santa wasn't quit sure if he would enjoy the tunnel just yet but Oscar got right down and crawled through the tunnel to hang out in his hut. Deke and him have already made a set of rules for the hut.

Thomas the Train Hut

He didn't need much help from us!

Playing with his gift from Gma & Gpa Larson

Entering the tunnel

Jumbo Legos (i'm sure i'll be picking these up more than i want too!)

A little something for me! I'm way excited, Deke did a GREAT job!!

Hope you all had a Merry Christmas! I'm way excited to celebrate with my side of the family on January 13th, when my parents get back from their mission!

A Day at the Zoo

2009-11-16T15:45:00.003-05:00

With it being Veterans Day and the courts being closed (meaning Dad had the day off) we headed off to Hogle Zoo. First on the agenda was seeing the new babies that were there. Oscar seemed to have tons of fun. He fell walking with mom and ended up with some road rash on his head (you can see it in the picture of him in his stroller). We must admit we were a little disappointed in the zoo. Many of the animals were not out and it was a beautiful day! The highlights were the elephants, bears (which deke thought would be fun to feed pretzels too), giraffes and the wolf. Other than that there wasn't much to see. No lions, tigers or hippo. Maybe we will have to go when it is warmer so there will be more to see. I'm not sure the last time I went to the zoo but it sure seemed a lot smaller to me. I guess the last zoo I have been to was the San Diego Zoo on our honeymoon. And that zoo is huge!

We decided to get some lunch at Litza's Pizza. We love their pizza and Oscar sure loved it as well. We then hit Cosco to do some shopping before heading home.

We sure enjoyed spending the day with Deke! We love when we get to go do fun things as a family.

Our Halloween Elephant

2009-11-16T15:03:00.002-05:00

I found this cute elephant costume at Walmart of all places. I think Oskie makes the cutest little elephant ever! Our Halloween adventure took us to Alpine to hang out with our friends the Clark's (minus Adam as he was at the Utah Football game with Deke). Natalie made some hummy Tempura to help us feel a little more healthy with all the candy that would be eaten. We than took the kids trick or treating (Oscar hangout in the stroller). I am so sad that I forgot to put the flashcard back in the camera and therefore do not have any pictures of the Clark kids in their cute costumes. Amber was Cinderella, Karli was Taylor Swift (hair and all) and Rex was a Sons of Anarchy motorcycle member with a hot pink mohawk (click here to see how cute they are). Thanks Clark's for letting us hang out and spending a fun night with us.

Starting to Take After ME :)

2009-11-04T14:56:00.008-05:00

I can fall asleep pretty much anywhere. Deke challenged me once to fall asleep at a concert we were at. And it seriously could of happened. So much to my surprise today this is how Oscar decided to fall asleep. Right in the middle of our lunch. I guess he was super tired because this has never happened before. We got up at 7 today and so I knew he was going to need an earlier nap so we ate lunch right at noon. I was sitting at the table enjoying my hot dog (thanks nat for sharing the secret about the low fat hebrew national, pretty tasty!) and reading the new forbes magazine we had gotten when I looked over and Oscar was totally falling asleep trying to eat his zesty tomato cheese puffs and string cheese. I just had to laugh. So like any good mom I hurried and documented the event with a short little video using my phone and then taking a few shots with the camera. Then of course, I got him out and put him down in his crib to sleep. I really never thought this day would come. I guess we have spoiled our little guy by rocking him to sleep for his naps and bedtime. That is why I am shocked he fell asleep on his own. I love that he has half the cheese puff still in his mouth. Reminds me of my sisters son Josh falling asleep with darts stuck to his forehead and chin.

More Sleep Please...

2009-10-08T16:29:00.004-04:00

Oscar got a pair of slippers like these from his aunt Shelly when he was just little and I loved them! Deke on the other hand thinks they are a little feminine like ugg boots or something. (he should be grateful that i haven't put leg warmers on our little boy, because i think they are the cutest!) The other day I was in Target and to my surprise found another pair just almost like his previous pair. So of course we HAD to have them. Now Oskie can wear his slippers around the house when it is a little chilly outside and keep his toes nice and warm. I love these things. How cute are they on my little boys feet?!?

I don't know what it is but lately i have had this itch for doing some crafty projects. I think it is with the season change and all the holidays that are coming up. So I have tried to find some cute little projects that I can complete. I am amazed at all the blogs that have these great tutorials on how to complete such projects. I find myself wishing that I knew how to sew. Yes mom you heard me right (you will be teaching me a few things when you get back JANUARY 7th!).

So this week started out with a bang! Monday and Tuesday I got to the gym early in the morning and was home showered and ready for the day before Oscar woke up. Wednesday was the day I really needed him to continue his great sleeping skills, but of course he didn't. Instead of an early gym sessions I got an early session with him at 5:30 and then threw us into a crazy morning as I tried to get him to my sisters and myself to the doctors by 9:45. Today was somewhat better but not by much, he slept until 6:30. Now I would give anything for his previous great sleep until 7'ish. Getting a text while I'm at the gym that my little bundle of joy has woken up and has cut into my workout time doesn't give me the motivation to keep this early morning schedule. So please sleeping fairies make my little oskie stay asleep until 7, so I can have a little session at the gym, which is much needed!!

Look Who is 1

2009-08-16T17:44:00.007-04:00

**I saw this idea for appliqued onesies on my friends blog and had to make one

I seriously can't believe Oscar is already 1. Where does the time go? We celebrated his birthday on Saturday (his actually birthday was Friday). He had his aunts, uncles and cousins all help him celebrate this big milestone! He enjoyed feeding himself his own cake! He had so much fun playing with cousins and all his new toys!

Oscar is very into Wubbzy (hence the cake), trucks (i swear boys must come programmed knowing how to make car sounds because he already does this), getting into the kitchen cupboards, otter pops, dancing to music, giving his stuffed animals kisses, playing the air drums (but now he has his own drum to pound on), and getting tons of attention from his parents. He chatters all day long but isn't saying too many real words, just mama, dada and izzy (deke's parents dog). We love him so much and are so grateful for him. He brings us way to much happiness!!

**the masterpiece

**He loved opening presents and paid attention to all the gifts he received.

**Singing Happy Birthday, he looks ready to blow out the candles

**enjoying his very own birthday cake

**all done, clapping for himself!

Thanks everyone for coming and celebrating with us. Oscar is so lucky to have such a great family who loves him!

A Few Videos for My Parents

2009-08-13T12:05:00.010-04:00

**Don't you like his custom made onsie from Deke's friend?

Oskie is in full swing now walking all over the place! He is such a busy little boy! It was just over night I swear that he decided he didn't need mom and dad there to walk back and forth to. He could just go whenever he wanted to. He is loving getting into the cupboards and pulling out all the pots and pans he can get his hands on. I guess whatever keeps him entertained while I do the dishes or start dinner is fine by me. This first video is of him walking when he still wasn't very good at it.

There is a song by the Black Keys that Deke plays for Oscar. As soon as the music even starts Oscar knows what it is and starts to dance and smile. It is too cute! He also has a love for Jerry Lee Lewis as well. Here are a couple videos of our dancing boy!

We cut our little guys hair on Sunday. Deke and I took turns with the clippers. Oscar wasn't a huge fan of the ordeal but he did alright. He did need lots of comforting afterwards. He just wanted to be held by one of us and we were trying to get ready for church. Needless to say mom and dad need more practicing but over all it didn't turn out to bad. He sure makes him look older to me!

Last few months...

2009-06-29T23:43:00.015-04:00

So I really have been meaning to post for some time. My mom says she checks everyday for new pictures of Oscar (I must be the worst daughter in the world)!

Where does the time go? Oscar is approaching his 1st Birthday. I can't believe it has been a year. He is so busy! He is walking somewhat back and forth from person to person. Ever day he gets more brave in taking steps while no one is there. He does crawl like a mad man. He will find anything to get into if you turn your back for a second. He jabbers all day long too. Not to many real words yet. We are working on them. Mama seems like all for now. I have a feeling he is going to be just like his dad and have a million things to say.

*We attended a family reunion in June in Ophir. Oscar had fun
relaxing in a chair and crawling in the grass (at first he didn't
like the feel of grass but it doesn't seem to slow him down anymore!).

I survived the Wasatch Back thank goodness! It was harder than I imagined. Running on no sleep is pretty difficult. Deke is the best dad ever! He was so excited to have Oscar during the Wasatch Back (remind you Oskie still wasn't the best at taking the bottle). He did fabulous with him! They played and played and had tons of fun. It was good I was nervous for the race because I didn't have much time to think about how things were going at home. I swore I would never do it again (during and right after the race). But now that it has worn off, I will be out running next year if at all possible. Why would I do this to myself again!!

L to R Kim, Angela, Me, Rachel, Karli and Tara
*Our team name was We Run for Tight Buns (i was wishing mine
would be a little tighter training for this thing, but i swear
training makes me want to eat more!)

*My Sister Rachel and Me

Rachel my sister and I ran on the 4th of July in a 15K in Hyrum. It was a fun run down the Black Fork Canyon. We both really enjoyed it. Maybe it will become a tradition!?! I hurried home and made it to the end of the Grantsville parade. Oskie was enjoying the bands and all the loud sirens. We then headed back to Deke's parents for a BBQ and then headed home for some sleep needed by Oskie and myself. We ended the day with shaved ice (yum TigersBlood) and putting Oskie to bed and enjoying the Grantsville fireworks from our front yard.

*Seriously he did enjoy the parade. The last picture he is pretty serious in.

I have enjoyed getting together with my sisters and friends whenever possible! We are excited to get Oskie into the swimming pool. We were going to take him this weekend but decided to wait due to the 100 degree weather. We don't want to fry the little boy, but I would like to report it appears he didn't get my freckled skin HOORAY!!! He is sporting some very nice tan legs due to all the time he spends in his stroller while we run around town. He did finally fall asleep the other day which he hasn't done in months!

*Too precious! Look at how he clenches his hands in fists
while he sleeps. I think he gets that from me, oops!

Well we are hoping the rest of the summer doesn't fly by! Hopefully I will be better at blogging!

9 Months Old

2009-05-19T00:05:00.008-04:00

Oscar is now 9 months old. He has been so much fun the last couple of days. He just got over a rotten cold he got from his dad. So he is feeling better thank goodness! He is pulling himself up and walking around whatever he is holding on to. He isn't so interested in crawling. He still does his army crawl but won't get up on all fours. He is still way into food. If you are eating and not sharing with him he makes this smacking noise to let you know he wants some. He will eat anything you give him. He is loving our morning runs and does so good. He just talks to himself or watches the cars drive by. He loves to watch cars. Deke will turn on car racing and Oskie will seriously watch for 20 mins as the drive around. Can you tell we can't get enough of our little guy! We love him so much!!

Deke's Big Day

2009-05-18T23:03:00.008-04:00

Friday Deke got got admitted to the Utah State Bar. So he is a legal attorney now. I can't believe this journey is over. 3 years surely went by fast. The ceremony wasn't too exciting. A judge talked way to long in my opinion. I guess I stopped listening after his first 2 points (he had 13). I guess the highlight of his talk were the 5 P's Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. I guess my mind and focus was more on trying to keep Oscar entertained. Thanks to all those who came and supported Deke. I am so proud of all of Deke's hard work! Today was his first day being able to go in front of the judge. He said everything went well. I am just glad that he is loving what he is doing. I think he likes his job too much because he leaves the house around 7 and doesn't get home until 6 most nights. I am trying to be understanding with the long hours but will admit that I have a hard time some days (when Oskie isn't feeling good and I'm ready for a break). Deke would now like to be referred to as Esquire by all :)!

New Things Going On...

2009-04-28T00:27:00.004-04:00

A few things have changed for me. They released me from nursery. Shocking I know. I thought I was doomed for another 3 years of nursery leader (which really wouldn't be all that bad). My new calling is Beehive Advisor in the Young Womens. I taught my first lesson on Sunday. I think it went ok. Our YW suffers in our ward. There aren't too many girls. I had 3 girls in class on Sunday but 2 of the girls really aren't in YW yet (they turn 12 in May, the bishop said they could come so a less active girl wouldn't have to be alone). They were fun and more talkative then I was expecting so that was good. I need to be better through the week getting things together so I don't stay up until 1:30 Saturday night getting my handouts and things together.

Oscar is getting so BIG! He is learning tons of new things. He claps his hands and shacks his head no. He begs for food when he sees others eating (that one not so cute, a little annoying sometimes because he doesn't give up until he gets many bites). We have retired the little bath tub and he now takes baths in the big bath tub. He likes it even more than his little bath. He splashes like crazy and has tons more room. He has officially cut his 7th tooth now. I swear he is going to have a full mouth full by the time he reaches 1. He is still the BEST, even if he didn't want to sleep last night and deprived his mother of much needed sleep. He still isn't fully crawling on all fours. He scouts and will rock up onto all fours but when he tries to move forward he face plants it into the ground. Maybe one day he will figure it all out.

Derrick is enjoying work (which is good)! He doesn't dread going in every day. We went shopping on Saturday to get him some new suits and boy are those things pricey! Atleast I think he now has enough to be a respectable attorney. His parents were nice enough to purchase a suit and men's warehouse had buy one get one free so that worked out good. But you would think that alterations were included for free. NOPE, you have to pay extra to actually get them to fit you. I don't understand this but oh well, what can you do. A couple more ties and a pair of new shoes and he is set for now.

Here are few new pictures of our pride and joy!!

Doesn't he look cute in yellow!

Playing with his new tool kit. Doesn't he look so much older!

Oskie Enjoying his Swing

2009-04-28T00:06:00.003-04:00

I just love his laugh! I enjoys being outside. He loves to just watch the cars drive by. Hopefully the weather will be nice all week so we can go for walks again. I am so sick of the rain and wind and cold! I would really like to enjoy Spring weather before it gets too hot!

Yummy Fondue

2009-04-10T01:02:00.004-04:00

Nat, I stole this picture from your blog :)

My friend Natalie invited me to take a fondue class at Thanksgiving Point with her. The class was taught by someone from the melting pot and now I have a few of their recipes to make. She demonstrated how to make the fondue and then we were all able to taste it. It was excellent! It was fun talking with Natalie and seeing her cute family again. Her girls Amber and Karli are always entertaining and Rex is the most laid back little boy (maybe Oscar could take some lessons from him)!

Sitting Up

2009-04-10T00:26:00.003-04:00

Oscar is getting BIG way too fast! He is sitting up all by himself now. He is getting so good at it. He still is scooting everywhere and rocks back on his knees but still no attempt to crawl. One day he will figure it out. It is funny to watch him scoot though. He scoots just far enough to be in reach of what he wants. He doesn't over scoot. He has been saying MaMa for awhile now but I didn't think he knew that it meant me. But Deke and I are convinced he does know. He only says it when I'm around or he is trying to get my attention. It is so cute and melts my heart. We are working on the DaDa word now. He has been laughing so hard lately at silly things we do. I never thought such a small little being could bring so much JOY to my life! He continues to be the BEST!!

**Don't pay attention to all his drool, I think he is cutting a few more teeth. He already has five.

Videos of Oscar

2009-03-26T22:24:00.004-04:00

Sorry for the quality of the video. I recorded it with my cell phone next time I will use our digital camera. Enjoy Grandma and Grandpa! I wish you were here to enjoy your cutest little grandson :) I can't believe how big he is getting. Time goes by way too fast! They are just short 30 second videos. And the picture gets better after a few seconds.

The Lastest of Little Oskie

2009-03-25T00:40:00.002-04:00

Don't let the above picture fool you. Oscar does not take a binkie! He sometimes likes to play with them and bite them but that is about it. I know one day I will be happy he never took the binkie because then I won't have to take it away from him. But he does look so cute with it in his mouth!

Deke thought it would be so fun to have Oskie sit in his empty Diet Pepsi box. Dad are you jealous? I know you would be if they weren't vanilla. Hopefully Germany has plenty of Diet Pepsi for you to partake of!

Our Brother in Law thought Oskie needed to get back to his roots of Michigan and came home from the temple dedication and let Oskie use his hankerchief for his Doo-Rag! Deke gave him the nickname of Vanilla Face Killer! What a stinkin' cutie!

He is so much fun these days! Deke has been teaching him how to shake his head No. He is eating tons of food! And Mom's food is always the best he thinks. Atleast I'm willing to share. Lately he has been into Izzie (the dog). Deke takes him out every morning to say hello to her and he gets a big smile on his face. He tries to grab her hair and Izzie is so good to just lay there and take his abuse.

March already

2009-03-05T10:03:00.002-05:00

We have been enjoying the sunshine the last week! Oscar loved swinging in the swing outside and going for walks. He is so curious as to his surroundings lately. He wants to see everything! I was sad to wake up to snow on the ground this morning. Deke is all done with the bar thank goodness. Now we just get to wait 8 to 10 weeks to find out the results. He started back at the law office in Tooele yesterday. I'm glad he loves the practice of law and gets excited about it!

Life with Oscar and I are pretty much the same. Yesterday Oscar scooted for the first time to get something within his reach. He rolls all over the floor like crazy now too. Before he did it but I think he now understands he can get things by doing it. He will get up on all fours and just rock back and forth but no crawling yet. He sits up pretty good on his own, but will fall over after awhile. At his 6 month checkup he was 28 inches long and weighed 15 1/2 pounds. Needless to say he is tall and skinny. They said his ideal weight for his height would be 20 pounds. So we are going to try and fatten him up. He loves food and wants to eat everything we are eating. His top teeth and coming through now too. One has broken through but the other one is on its way. We are both looking forward to more sunny days and spring! I can't wait for the tulips! I love spring time, just wish it would come faster and last longer!

Our Poor Little Guy

2009-02-21T23:50:00.003-05:00

These pictures were taken earlier today. Oscar was in a good mood all day today. We went on a walk and enjoyed the beautiful sunshine, went grocery shopping and stopped by the library to visit dad. At 7 I started his normal bedtime routine, rice cereal and bath. While feeding him his rice cereal he kept gagging but seemed fine. He was a happy boy in his bath no big deal. I was getting him into his PJ's and he threw up. He seemed fine after it was all done. Deke got home from studying and was holding him and he threw up again all over. Tons more this time. I felt so bad! I don't know what was wrong. He didn't act like he didn't feel good. I don't know if he just ate too much or if he ate something bad. I did buy him some new crackers at Walmart that are made in China (now that I checked the package). I just felt horrible for him. It is never fun to throw up. Hopefully it was just a fluke thing and he will be the same happy boy tomorrow.

Where Does the Time Go?

2009-02-21T23:22:00.002-05:00

Our little boy is now 6 months old. He is getting so big! We can't get enough of him!

Things that he loves:
Food (anything and everything, if he sees me eating he wants some.)
Baths (he gets so excited and when he say Splash he goes crazy splashing in the water)
Playing (he loves to play all day long, sometimes not very good by himself but if you are there to play with him he loves it)
Wonder Pets (he is still captivated by this TV show)

Things he doesn't like:
Bottles (HELP!! it is driving me crazy and makes me so nervous for June when I will be away from him for more than 24 hours)
Binkies (any and all kinds and we got the cutest binkies as a gift that say Oscar and Stud Muffin)
When one of us leave a room and he sees us (if you can sneak out without him watching then he is ok but if he sees you walk away he wines immediately.

I took this picture with my phone so I could text it to Deke while he was in Fayette studying for the Bar. I was way impressed while how well Oscar smiled for the picture. He was being cuddly (he usually doesn't like to be up on my shoulder) and I just held the phone up and told him to smile. I think it made Deke's day. We sent many pictures to remind Dad what he was missing out on at home. We are so excited for Wednesday to be over so we can have make all to ourselves. He has been studying like CRAZY! Only 4 more days to go, I can't wait!!

My Two Dogs!

2009-02-21T23:07:00.002-05:00

This picture was taken awhile ago, but these are my dogs! They mean the world to me and make me so happy every day! How grateful I am for them. They are going to be partners in crime when Little O gets a little older. Deke and I laugh when people say "You just wait, I'm going to teach Oscar some many bad things that you taught my kids." Because we both know Deke will teach him those same bad things so he can drive me crazy!! Sure will be fun for me!

Music

2009-02-08T23:05:00.002-05:00

So today at church a guy played an arrangement of I Know That My Redeemer Lives. This has been one of my favorite hymns for a long time. The arrangement was pretty and I enjoyed listening to it. As I sat listening all I could think about was my mom and how she was always practicing some arrangement of the hymns for prelude music or something. I miss hearing the piano being played. Music is such a powerful way for me to feel the spirit. I know that this hymn is one of my mom's favorites as well and she has a hard time getting through it without tears. I find myself having a hard time as well. The words are very powerful!

So I like to sing songs to Oscar throughout the day and when I am rocking him to sleep. I find myself singing the same songs over and over again. So I ask this question to whomever, What songs do you sing to your little ones?

The Cutest Little Laugh in the World

2009-02-03T22:32:00.003-05:00

I love how Oscar's face lights up when he laughs! Deke and I can't keep from smiling when we watch this video. He is sharing his giggles more often these days. He is the BEST!

4 more weeks to go!

2009-01-29T22:28:00.004-05:00

So yes I am on a countdown to when Deke will be done with the Bar. I just can't wait to have a husband back and I know little O is just as excited as I am! In the morning Deke takes Oscar while I go to the gym and I know it is his favorite time of the day. I think he gets a little disappointed if I decide to take the day off because he then doesn't get his alone time with him.

Things that we have been up too:

I had a wonderful lunch at Cafe Rio with my 2 sisters last week. We laughed and had a good time! Oscar was so good to let us just talk each others ear off. I enjoy hanging out with my sisters so much I wish I could see them more often, they are my best friends.

After lunch I went to check out a jogging stroller I found on KSL. It was in great shape when I saw it and so I couldn't pass it up. Afterwards Oscar and I headed over to Target and did a little shopping. Why doesn't the Tooele Valley get a Target, things would be so much better if they did!

Friday I went and got a pedicure with my sister in law. Again Oscar tagged along with us and was so good to just sit on my lap and check out everything that was going on. My toes were in bad shape and really needed some work done on them!

Saturday was just nice hanging out with Deke all day! I look forward to the weekends because I know he will be around! After I put Oscar to bed me and sister in law headed to the movies to see Bride Wars. Such a cute flick!

Sunday Deke and I had to talk in church. The counselor didn't give us a topic to talk on so we picked to talk about Joseph Smith. Deke's mom hung out with Oscar at home so we would not be disrupted during the talks. I must admit I really enjoyed sacrament meeting. A missionary talked after us and he did a excellent job! Missionaries always impress me with how well they know the scriptures and how they can just rattle off a talk without preparing.

Today was such a beautiful day that I decided to test out the stroller, so Oscar and I went for a little walk. He wined for a little when he got tired and then fell right to sleep. I am excited to go running with him when it is nice outside. He will be my running partner.

Here are a few new pictures of our little boy. He is changing so much. He loves to eat! So far he has had sweet potatoes (are his favorite), squash, and peas. I got him some little puffs that are flavored sweet potatoes too. He has tried all sorts of my food lately. I know his favorite would be the fudgesicle he gets on occasion. He splashes like crazy now in his bath and gets water everywhere. He is rolling all over the room when I'm not in there. If I'm there he wines until I get him (what a stinker!) Oscar is getting easier and easier to go to bed too. He sleeps from 8'ish until 5'ish, what I would give if he just slept until 6. He does usually fall back asleep in our bed after he eats at 5. So I guess I shouldn't complain. Tonight I put him down and he was still awake and he didn't even cry for 2 minutes. Hooray! Deke and I think he is the BEST! How grateful I am that I am able to be a mom. Sometimes it is very challenging but so worth it!

Look who has 2 teeth

2009-01-09T00:17:00.003-05:00

We are amazed that he has already cut 2 teeth and is only 4 1/2 months old. He didn't seem to crabby while it was all taking place. I have a feeling there are more on the way he still drools all over and his hand is always in his month, Plus he still isn't eating the best UGH!

For My Parents in Germany

2009-01-08T22:51:00.004-05:00

I wanted to post some film of Oscar doing some of his tricks and talking a little bit. I love the video of him talking (or not talking). He opened his mouth and the perfect time. Enjoy!

Consider yourselves lucky I am putting these up, I hate to hear myself on camera and I feel like such a dork! Hopefully this will not make you motion sick, please remember that I am filming and trying to get Oscar to perform all at the same time. Cut me some slack everyone, Deke!!

Oscar Eating Rice Cereal

2009-01-08T22:37:00.003-05:00

We decided to give rice cereal a try. Oscar had started being curious about the food that we were eating and the Dr. said it would be fine if we decided to start him out on some cereal. The first attempt wasn't successful. The 2nd went better. But by the 3rd he was loving it. I just love these pictures of him sitting in the high chair. I think my boy is so big until he sits in the high chair and he looks so small to me.

Open up big!

Looking so satisfied!

Christmas and More..

2009-01-08T14:27:00.005-05:00

So Oscar had a great 1st Christmas. He got spoiled a little too much by Grandma and Grandpa Larson (the majority of his gifts came from them) me and Deke did very little shopping. He now has plenty of things to entertain his little self! Are we horrible parents I didn't even wrap his presents and we let him play with them before Christmas.

Oscar sitting in his new chair that Santa brought for him ( grandma & grandpa Larson).

Oscar opening his very first present with some help from dad.

Playing with his new toy also from grandma & grandpa Larson.

Playing with his stuffed animal all the way from Germany from grandma & grandpa Harris.

The big highlight for me this Christmas was talking to my parents on the phone for over an hour! I find myself missing them more than I thought I would. I did live in Michigan for over 3 years and never really felt homesick too much. But being back in Utah and not seeing my parents when I want has been difficult. It was so good to talk to them and hear them so happy! I was expecting tears from my Mom and she didn't shed any. I think I was holding my back more than her. I also got to talk to them on my Mom's birthday on Jan. 1st and then helped them out on a card game they were wanting to play.

Oscar had his 4 month check up on the 26th and everything is good. He only put on little over 2 pounds in 2 months which had me worried but the doctor didn't seem too concerned. We decided to start feeding him a little rice cereal at night and by the 3rd feeding he was way into it and loving his cereal. He now gets a little bugged at me if I don't get it to him fast enough. (pictures are to come).

We went up to Logan to visit with my sisters. The ride up there was horrible. The roads hadn't been touched it seemed since the snow fall on Christmas. We made in 3 hours and decided to spend the night Oscar is a new kid in the car, thank goodness! He just plays and talks and then falls asleep! So nice he isn't crying the whole time anymore. Means I can actually start going places without worrying about the car ride!

Oscar has gotten his first 2 teeth. One morning one showed up and then a few days later the other one followed on the bottom. So cute, no wonder he hasn't been eating well! I have a feeling more are still on the way! He isn't even 5 months old yet.

Deke started his law review class at the U, so me and little O hangout together at night. We miss him tons but know he has to do lots of studying. Thank goodness it is only for 2 months and not a whole semester!

I feel like a new person. I have gotten back into my routine of going to the gym in the morning and if feels oh so good!! Hopefully I can finally get the rest of this baby (and holiday) weight off of me and get myself back into shape. I have been sore but it feels good to know I am doing something for myself that I love!

A Much Needed Night Out

2008-12-19T23:26:00.002-05:00

Last night I was able to meet a couple of friends in Salt Lake for dinner. It was the 3rd time I have left Oscar and I must admit it was nice. Deke did a terrific job! He stuck with our nightly routine and I came home to a nice sleeping baby. Deke and his mom had to trick Oscar into taking his bottle (he doesn't take it too well). Deke squirted his vitamins into his mouth and grandma held the bottle in his mouth and it got him to suck and realize it was milk. It was nice to enjoy dinner at Jason's Deli and not have to worry about what was happening at home. We had a fabulous time talking about the good old days and catching up on each other lives. Now that I know that things will go well at home, I will have to venture out a little more often.

Oscar on his First Thanksgiving

2008-12-04T23:22:00.005-05:00

Deke gave Oscar a taste of his favorite dish at Thanksgiving, Sweet Potatoes (all the syrup of butter and brown sugar). Oscar wasn't sure what to think but accepted the second taste as well.

Oscar in his cute little outfit that the Clark's gave him. He has serious hair issues, I don't know what to do with it. I probably should just buzz it and let it grow back in.

Our little thinker. Oscar smiles all the time but trying to capture it on camera has been hard. He just looks at the camera when we start shooting and the smiles go away.

Lots more things to do...

2008-12-02T11:15:00.002-05:00

Several of my friends posted this on their blogs and I too liked it. For posterity's sake, here are the things I've done (bold & underlined) and the things I still want to do:

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty-atleast to the base
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon (hopefully one day)
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris (not all the way to the top)
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous (do the Jazz players count at Jr Jazz night?)
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Totally copied a post from someone else's blog to your own

Rival Week

2008-11-21T11:44:00.005-05:00

With the big game scheduled for kick-off at 4:00, there is no question what we will be watching on TV (minus all the flipping my husband must do to avoid commericials and check on the other games). Who will I be cheering for? Yes, I have married into a family that despise the Cougars and anybody that has met my dad knows he is a HUGE Cougar fan! So my whole life I have always cheered for the Y. When Deke and I got married, Deke wanted to buy season tickets to the U. Of course I went to the games and cheered for the Utes (this was a first in my life). When the big rival game came that season I dressed in my Blue and went and sat among the enemies. I will admit I was a little bit torn who to cheer for because it was the year Alex Smith was the quaterback for the Utes and the year they could break into the BCS. So in the end I was happy to see the Utes win and head to the Fiesta Bowl and show that the BCS was a big joke. I will admit though ever since that game I am a closet Y fan still. I keep quiet around my in-laws and hope for the Cougars to do their best. I was sad to see the Y lose to TCU and wished for them to hand the Utes a lose too. So tomorrow I will dress myself in blue along with my little Oscar (oh his dad will be so mad!) Too bad little O doesn't have a Y onesie to sport to show his Harris pride as the Cougars Rise and Shout!

Updates

2008-11-12T15:31:00.002-05:00

So it has been awhile. Not too much has been going on. Saturday I enjoyed lunch with some friends from high school I haven't seen in years. It was fun to go around the table and here what was going on in their lives. Deke kept Oscar and let me enjoy myself but things didn't go great with Oscar. He did take the bottle thankfully and was finally sound asleep by the time I returned.

Sunday we made it to church and I got to experience the nursery. I feed Oscar the first hour pretty much and made it in time for snacks and coloring. The kids were pretty good and there aren't too many of them. Deke left a little early with Oscar, but in all it went good!

Tuesday Deke didn't go to work since the courts were closed for Veterans Day. So we went to lunch and Walmart (my least favorite store). Oscar did pretty good. He slept through lunch and cried a little in Walmart (but who wouldn't). I always enjoy Deke hanging out with us! We miss him so much the next day!

Last Friday was Deke and I's 5th anniversary. We didn't go celebrate anywhere (I guess that is what happens when you have a newborn). We had tons of offers for people to take him but just wanted to all stay together! Hopefully one day it will be easier on us to leave him. Anyways I got the best gift ever in August when I became a mom!

Oscar is going to be 3 months old on Friday (where does the time go). He is getting so big and fun! He smiles at anyone who comes up to him. He loves to talk to his Dad! My new favorite thing is while he is eating he will look up at me and smile. He has rolled over from his tummy to his back quit a few times now. He is getting so close to laughing and reaching for things. His sleeping is getting better, still not the best (atleast for his mom). I know he can go longer without food because he did it for a week. But I guess I can't complain he usually gives me 5 to 6 hours straight and then goes right back to bed after he is done eating. Now if he will just enjoy his car rides. I guess we will find out tomorrow if he is better on his trips into Salt Lake (I am finally getting my hair done, it needs it in a bad way!)

For Real

2008-11-04T22:11:00.003-05:00

Shocking news, I have been called to be in the nursery in our new ward. Can you believe this? Not only have we only been to sacrament meeting twice since we moved back to Utah, I just previously got out of my Lansing Ward were I served in the nursery for 2 1/2 years. So I'm not sure if I just scream nursery leader or sucker? I'm not real sure how this is all going to work out. Having a new baby and all. I feel like I have accomplished tons just getting to church on time and staying through sacrament meeting (because it is about 10:30 that Oscar is ready to eat again). On the good side there aren't too many kids in the nursery and there is someone else in there, so I won't be alone. I'll let you know how things go next week.

Halloween Activites

2008-11-03T10:13:00.004-05:00

Halloween was a lot more exciting then in years past. In Lansing all we did was hand out candy to the trick or treaters. So this year it was fun to get dressed up (even though I struggle with costumes) and go to a couple of parties. Deke's friend Jacob's parents had a party the weekend before Halloween. Deke went as Babe Ruth (hence the Yankee garb) and Oscar went as a Tiger. I guess I went as a new mom because I didn't have time to get ready before the party as I was feeding Oscar.

The Monday before Halloween, Shelly (Deke's sister) had a fun party at her house. I dressed up as Huck Finn and Oscar again was the Tiger. This time Deke did not dress up because he didn't get home from work until 8:30. The party was a hit! The kids enjoyed hitting the pinyata and getting the candy. Pumpkins were carved and good food was served. I would have to say that Dog the Bounty Hunter and his wife Beth stole the show with their costumes. But it was fun to see everyone dressed up. I am already trying to think of a costume I can wear next year so I will be better prepared! Hope you all had a fun Halloween. I still think it is crazy that November is already here.

Our Growing Boy

2008-10-24T11:26:00.003-04:00

Oscar is growing so big! We had out 2 month checkup yesterday and were happy with his progress. He now weighs in at 11 pounds 5 ounces and is 24 1/2 inches. He is in the 32% for weight and 89% for length. Good Job Oscar! We knew he was getting long because I have had to switch him to his 3 to 6 month pajamas because with the feet he can't stretch all the way out.
The doctor helped put our minds at easy about other things as well. He did pretty good when they gave him shots. He just looked so surprised and mad that someone would do that to him but then I just feed him and he was calm. He let us eat for about 20 mins at our favorite place the Training Table. But then he wasn't so good on the ride home. He cried a lot. And when I went to get him out of his carseat he had throw-up on him. He cries so hard in the car sometimes he throws up. He hasn't become the expert car rider like he used to be when he was just a few weeks old. Makes for unpleasant traveling.

Even more exciting is Oscar has been such a good sleeper at night the last couple of nights. I book has been recommended to me but a couple of different friends so I have been reading like crazy. Well Wednesday night Oscar slept from 8:30 until 4:15. I couldn't believe it. I for sure thought it was just a one time thing but last night he slept from 9'ish until 5 this morning. How wonderful. When he wakes up too he eats and goes right back to sleep for another couple of hours. It has been heaven getting that much sleep all at once.

Oscar in his sling

2008-10-22T19:13:00.004-04:00

Before we moved back to Utah, Lola bought me a sling to help with little Oscar on the airplane ride home. Little did I know how much use I would get out of this sling. Oscar and I go on walks all over Grantsville with this thing and he just sleeps the whole time. Living in a small town now it is kind of nice because I can walk pretty much anywhere I want to go. We have made several trips to the post office to mail things off or to the local grocery store to pick something up. When Deke gets off work we will head out with Izzie and Oscar. I am not looking forward to the colder weather because my walking will be limited. It has also been very handy when we have gone into Salt Lake for a shopping trip. Oscar just sleeps away! Deke has tried to switch over to the carrier now so he can carry him but Oscar isn't much of a fan of that yet. The sling is good up to 20 lbs (only if my shoulder can handle it). It's good exercise hauling around 10 more extra pounds and getting some much needed fresh air during the day.

Little O just waking up after getting back from our walk. He is nice and snug in there.

I love this time of year!! The crisp air and the changing leaves, wish it would stay this way for awhile!

Random Pictures

2008-10-22T11:36:00.002-04:00

On Saturday Deke and I decided to hold a little photo shoot in the backyard with all the fall leaves and Oscar. He was so good to just let us snap a ton of pictures. It was fun to cover him in leaves. We have decided that we take way too many pictures of him. We just can't get enough of his cute face! Is it true that you always take more pictures of your first child than any other kid you might have?

Oscar is starting to like his bath hooray! The last few times he has been really good with no crying. He doesn't like to get out and get lotion on though. He is getting to be such a big boy!! As long as we talk to him and make funny noises he seems to enjoy the warm water on his bum.

The other day I decided to just put Oscar down in his boppy in front of the TV (horrible I know but a girl has to shower atleast once a day). After my shower I went to check on him and he was talking and kicking his feet at the TV. It was too cute. I even got to blow dry my hair and do makeup all at one time. I can usually put him down in the boppy and do a 30 min workout DVD. I think he thinks his mom is crazy as I jump all around him and do situps next to him on the floor. I can't express though what it does for me to get just a little 30 mins workout in once a day. Makes a world of difference for me mentally! Now if only I could get in a couple of runs a week instead of just on Saturday.

My Very Own..

2008-10-18T11:25:00.002-04:00

Come Back Cup! Deke now says I am officially white trash! Let me explain the story. There is a gas station in town the Weigh Station that has the BEST fountain Diet Dr. Pepper! So one day he asked if I wanted a drink. He proceeded to tell me how they call the refillable mugs "Come Back Cups!" I could not stop laughing. Who had ever heard of this? I explained that we just called them mugs. So this morning Deke comes back from Maverik with are very own Come Back Cups! I feel so special! He must love me huh.

Hey Rachel are you jealous?

Oscar's Blessing Day

2008-10-13T23:27:00.006-04:00

Derrick blessed Oscar on Sunday and did a great job. Oscar did really good and didn't cry! O was so nervous that he would be one of those babies that screams the whole time. He barely made a peep towards the end of the meeting. Mom and Dad we sure missed you! Thanks to all those who came or attempted to come (the Clark's had quite the morning).

Of course Derrick wasted no time changing out of his suit.

My 2 sisters who live in the state that could make it to the blessing. It must be said Alayna and I were a little nervous that Rachel was going to miss it, but she arrived in plenty of time.

Sneak Preview

2008-10-13T23:18:00.003-04:00

So the other day I was doing a little shopping at Walmart and came across the cutest little costume for Oscar. He is going to be a Tiger! We had to try it on him and take some pictures a little early. It will be interesting to see how much more he fills it out by Halloween.

Peace

2008-09-21T20:45:00.004-04:00

Oscar wanted to say Peace to Ambee, Carlos and Sexy Rexy!

**And no we didn't stage this photo.

Oscar in his cute towel

2008-09-21T20:40:00.003-04:00

Oscar still is not a fan of his bath. He did better this last time but he screams so bad when he gets one (my sister Alayna can confirm). Oscar has this little thing that drives Deke and I crazy! When he cries really hard he will hold his breath. We then have to blow in his face to get him to start breathing again. It is the worst when we are in the car and we can't do anything about it. It freaks us out!

New Pictures

2008-09-21T20:06:00.007-04:00

I've been promising to post new pictures of Oscar, so Deke had a little photo shot outside with him on Friday and took some. Enjoy!

Our cute little bear (check out the top of the hood).

Oscar is 1 month old in these pictures. I can't believe how much he has changed in 1 month. He is getting so big!

He was bright eye during this ordeal of taking his picture. He is actually wearing his 0 to 3 months clothes now for the most part. He has gotten to long for the newborn clothes.

Deke's parents dog Izzie is getting to know Oscar. She likes to lick his feet and gets concerned when he cries.

Surviving

2008-09-17T19:48:00.003-04:00

So things are going pretty good. Our little Oscar has his fussy time from 10 to midnight it seems. He is so tired but just fights going to sleep. Deke and I keep telling him he is ruining his chances for any siblings but he doesn't seem to care. Other than that he does really good. He eats like a champ (i swear i am always feeding him) and looks like he is put on even more weight from when he was weighed last week at the Dr (he weighed in at 7 lbs 13 oz). I have even started putting him in his 0 to 3 months clothes. I tried to go to the grocery store last week and thought everything was going good and lingered a little longer than I should of and Oscar started screaming. Oh the joys and I made a big first mom mistake and took him out of his car seat to try and calm him down (I've learned my lesson, just leave him in the car seat). We have been going on walks and he loves that, he sleeps really good! We even ventured out to dinner with some friends on the weekend and he did really good. Now when they came back to the house with us was another story remind you it was 10 o'clock. All in all we are doing good.

Deke is loving his internship. They are in court everyday. He is eating it all up! He almost got to go in front of the judge and do a motion by himself (Jacob was busy taking care of something else) but at the last minute Jacob returned and took care of it. His paper he did on DUI's is coming in handy. But he is just learning tons and enjoying himself. It is fun to see him in his suit and tie everyday. I think we will need to invest in some more work clothes for him.

We are here....

2008-09-08T15:44:00.003-04:00

Well we have arrived in Utah! The flight wasn't all that bad. Oscar did really well, I was a little nervous because we had to sit on the plane before take off for an hour due to thunderstorms, but he just slept soundly in his sling (thanks Lola, it was very handy). He cried a few times but for the most part it went pretty smoothly! The most eventful thing on the trip was Jerry Sloan was on our flight. He sat 3 rows behind Lola in first class. He said Oscar has great potential!

Deke arrived late Friday night and we were so excited to see him! It was a long drive and he doesn't plan on doing it again! They left around 11 on Thursday and pulled into G-ville around midnight Friday night.

Oscar is being spoiled by all his Aunts. They love to bounce him and he sure enjoys that. Friday I went into Riverton so my 2 sisters could met Oscar. It was so good to spend time with them. Being in the Sandy area was weird though without being able to see my parents. It makes me miss them tons! But how I love to hear their voices on the phone. I will for sure inform my little Oscar that he has another set of grandparents that love him so much and can't wait to meet him in 18 months!

Deke started his externship today. And good news we got another call on our townhouse. Hopefully one of these people will make a decision and buy it!

Oscar has finally decided that he likes his swing-hooray! He has been sleeping in it for awhile now. It sure lets me get some stuff done. I don't know how all you Moms out there get things done with a newborn. It was all I could do to get in a 20 minute workout session on the bike, then rock Oscar back to sleep, jump in the shower, feed Oscar, have a little playtime and tummy time and then get some lunch for myself. Still no makeup on and do you ever get to do your hair? I'm sporting a ponytail for the 4th day in a row :) But I sure love him!

What is going on right now...

2008-08-31T23:21:00.002-04:00

So Friday we took Oscar to the doctors again (the doctor said to bring him back right before we moved). He is doing so good! Deke and I had a bet going to see who could guess his weight. I said O would weigh 6 lbs 10 oz and Deke was guessing around 7 lbs. Needless to say I was closer, Oscar weighed in at 6 lbs 11 oz. Not too bad for just being 12 days old. So in 11 days he put on 9 oz.

Deke got a call on our place on Friday and some lady is coming to look at the place on Monday. Everyone keep your fingers crossed that she wants it. It would be so nice to be able to sell it and not have to worry about it while we are in Utah and count on our friend to show it too people. She is really interested in ours because it has central air.

Deke's parents came into town on Saturday. It has been nice to have them here. Oscar is getting to know his grandparents. They have been big help in watching him so we can get our stuff packed up.

I turn in my two week notice in Tuesday. I'm kindof nervous and I don't know why. I'm pretty sure my boss knows that I'm not coming back (she took away all my projects before I had little O) but I still don't like to do these things.

I'm getting super excited to be back in Utah on Wednesday. It is still hard for me to believe that we are finished here in Michigan. I'm nervous to be without Deke for a couple of days. He helps out so much with Oscar. He always makes sure I get atleast a good 2-3 hours of straight sleep a night which makes a world of difference.

We are still packing up our place but feel like we have gotten rid of so much! Deke has already taken one car load of stuff to goodwill. And we have thrown away so much. It has been good! How do we end up with so much stuff? Makes me scared to buy a house and live in it for years and years.

Pictures that finally do Oscar justice

2008-08-25T20:39:00.007-04:00

Here are some pictures that we took today after Deke went to Best Buy and bought a new camera that takes amazing pictures! Poor Oscar is probably so sick of his parents as we are snapping pictures left and right :)

More Pictures

2008-08-23T11:45:00.011-04:00

So here are so more pictures of our Oscar. He is doing so good! We are having a hard time remembering what life was like without him here. We don't think the camera does justice for this little guy. He isn't a fan of the flash and always closes his eyes just when we take the picture.

His cute long feet! Dad is so happy he has the same feet as him because he think Mom has fat toes.

He takes his pacifier for the most part. He has a hard time keeping it in his mouth. We got this from the hospital and it smells like Vanilla.

Deke is so good with Oscar! I know Oscar adores his dad. I love seeing them together!

Oscar all swaddled up. He looks so warm and content. He loves to sleep like this. Even if we swaddle him super tight he still finds a way to get his hand out the top to touch his face.

Oscar after his bath. He smells so good I could eat him up. He does pretty good during his bath. He peed all over his towel though. He is pretty good at that. We have already had to change the sheets on our bed one night and taken him out of two outfits due to accidents.

Aren't the Olympics the Best!!

2008-08-23T11:09:00.003-04:00

We just can't get enough of the Olympics. Of course our favorite was watching Michael Phelps. I don't think I could scream at the TV more when they barely beat the Frogs (French) in the relay race. Both Deke and I were pretty into that race. Deke even would watch gymnastic with me. We both were excited when Shawn Johnson got her Gold on the Balance Beam. She is a cutie! I love her smile. What happened with the Americans in Track and Field. I swear our runners are the best and they didn't even make it in the relays to the medal run because they couldn't pass the baton to each other. I felt so bad for Lolo when she hit the 2nd to last hurdle. Then to watch the Jamaicans run. Man can Usian Bolt run! What I would give to be able to run that fast just once. I can't imagine how it would feel to have the air hit my face as I ran down the track.

One of the events we watched and don't particular love is Diving. Deke thinks it is only far to put you in weight class because depending on how big or little you are he thinks plays a role in your splash. And let's be honest those Chinese girls are tiny! I swear they only weigh 70 pounds. I proceeded to say how there is no way I could jump off the high dive. It would freak me out. Deke then proceeded to paint a picture for me. He said he would love to do it. He would get himself a Confederate Flag (just to get a reaction from the judges) speedo and would jump off the high dive and pretend he was riding a bicycle into the pool. We both couldn't stop laughing! I was trying to feed Oscar so I was trying not to laugh so he would stay latched on but the more he painted the picture I could only imagine the sight of him jumping off the high dive in his speedo pretending he was riding his bicycle into the pool.

Mini Leslie

2008-08-21T17:50:00.003-04:00

Our friends the Clarks came over to see our new bundle of joy the other day. Nat posted this on her blog I'm Leslie. She is by far cuter than I am! Deke and I can't get enough of their kids. They were so nice to Oscar when they visited. They gave him lots of kisses. Their little boy Rex and Oscar are going to be partners in crime.

Oscar Lloyd Larson

2008-08-15T21:54:00.015-04:00

Oscar made his way into this world Thursday, August 14 @ 11:42 AM. He weighed in at 6 pounds 5.5 ounces (alot smaller than we both expected) and 21.25 inches long. Things went pretty good for the most part. We are sure enjoying our little O and think he is too cute for words! His little cry makes us both smile. We couldn't be happier!

Last Law School Class, Yippee!!

2008-08-08T14:22:00.003-04:00

So my dog officially sat in his very last law school class yesterday. Can you believe it? He didn’t realize it until he was driving home and it didn’t even occur to me until he said something yesterday. I still have a hard time believing that this journey is over (atleast the class part of it, I guess it isn’t officially over until December and then the Bar in February). But still a huge chunk of it is done! I’m excited to have my husband back without the stress of class and finals always looming over his head. I am so proud of him and all the sacrifices he has made! He is such a hard worker! He has been through so much stress (especially this last semester with the baby and the move) and he still makes me feel so loved and that I am #1 in his life. I know I couldn’t of balanced my life in that way the last 3 years going through what he has. We both know that these last 3 years have brought us closer together and have made us depend on each other more than ever. Living away from family has been a good experience but we are excited to be closer than we are now. (FYI, I got my plane ticket yesterday and me and baby will arrive in Utah on September 3rd )

Long Day.....

2008-08-05T23:18:00.003-04:00

Today has been a long day. I started the day off calling in sick to work. I had a Dr appointment this afternoon and decided that I might as well make a whole day of it instead of working half a day. I hit the gym in the morning and then went to see the doctor. I found this appointment a little funny. To inform those that didn't know my blood pressure has been a little high at my last 5 visits. Last visit I was really swollen in my feet and legs and would like to think that contributed to the high weight gain for one week. So today I was curious to see how things would be. First my weight was down 3 pounds from last week so that was a good thing! Then when the nurse took my blood pressure it was totally normal 110/80. And my feet and ankles were not swollen. So needless to say I think I should take work off for ever doctor appointment I have left (even if it is only 2). I talked to the doctor about being induced if I go over my due date. He said it wouldn't be a problem if some things have progressed. So next week at my appointment they are going to check me to see if anything is happening. I don't really want to be induced, I'm just scared that labor will be longer and more pain full this way with my first. But to give me some time to recover and let Deke and I get a little used to being parents before we move (we are going to be cutting it close anyways) we have decided that it will be best to get things done if I go over my due date. We have decided to move back the first week in September. Deke just has to get through next Saturday and we are good to go.

I have spent the rest of the afternoon and night cleaning our place. We have an inspection tomorrow since we are selling our place. I must say things look really clean! It makes me wonder why I don't keep things up on a regularly basis. There is nothing better than a clean house! Now the goal is to keep things put away so when someone calls to come see the place (and hopefully they will) there won't be a mad scrabble to pick things up. I put together a little flier about our place because the office said they would mail it out for us to those that are going through the qualification process. Hopefully the pictures will draw someone to want to come and buy our place. I know when we looked at them some of the places we went into where in bad shape so hopefully that is how things are now!

I swear days that I don't go to work I feel like I work harder than when I'm there.

Yesterday Deke and I went to the hospital to take a tour of the facilities so we have some idea where we are suppose to go and what we can expect to a point. Deke and I couldn't believe that there were only 2 babies in the nursery when we there. We kept saying that if we were in Utah there would way more. Not that I feel more prepared to give birth but at least we know what doors to go in depending on the time of day this all takes place.

*Sorry if this doesn't read well. I don't have the energy to reread it and make corrections.

Baby Shower at Work

2008-07-23T21:36:00.005-04:00

On Tuesday my work gave me a baby shower. I was overwhelmed with their generosity and all the wonderful things that we received. They did it during our lunch break and served pizza and salads. Everything turned out so nice. My good friends Caroline, Lisa, Alaina and Brett did most of the planning and then others helped out by bringing in some of the side dishes. It was a lot of fun! My friend Caroline made the giraffe in the pictures and Nancy put together the cute diaper cake. I came home and Derrick couldn't believe all the things that we received. Later that night laid everything out on the spare bed so I could take pictures. I am such a dork!

I think we are pretty ready for this little boy to arrive. We still need to get the car seat and stroller but other than that I think we are set for now. I'm sure there will be things that come up. We are trying to only buy things that we need for the first little bit so we don't have to pack everything back to Utah.

I am starting to realize that our time here in Michigan is almost over and I think it will be harder saying goodbye to the good friends I have made then I thought it would be. We have been so blessed during our time in Michigan. Things have worked out so well for us. We are amazed how our Heavenly Father is so mindful of us and knows what is the best thing for us even when we don't.

The count down is on...Only 4 more weeks to go! We are getting so excited to hold and love our son! We just hope and pray that he will be a healthy strong little guy!

4th of July festivities

2008-07-07T12:02:00.005-04:00

Ever since we moved to Michigan I have always felt bad because I know how much my dog loves the 4th of July. It is probably his favorite holiday. His family always does a big get together ever year and I know how much he enjoys it. I must admit our 4th of July festivities have probably been disappointing since we moved to Michigan. Last year we went to a parade out in Mason that was really depressing and we swore we wouldn't go back. So this year there wasn't much on the calendar. We invited our friends the Clarks over for a BBQ. But didn't have anything else to fill the day.

We headed to Bob Evans for some hummy breakfast when we rolled out of bed (it was nice we didn't have to deal with a crowd because of the time) It sure hit the spot! We then just hung out at home, Deke watched a documentary but didn't get to finish it because the cable went out with 20 mins left in the show. He was a little disappointed. I made my dog's favorite 4th of July foods, baked beans and potato salad minus the celery and onion (and he was tons of help!!). He loves these foods and I new that if I had them then I could help him still love the holiday. Our friends came over and we grilled some steaks, which was a nice change (seems like we always do hamburgers). They have the cutest kids and I think having kids around on the holidays makes things more fun. When it got dark they did sparklers and a few other fireworks. Turned out to be just enough excitement for the kids, and I know I liked not having to deal with traffic that goes with going to watch fireworks!

In all it turned out to be an enjoyable day. Hope the 4th will stay my dogs favorite holiday! Hopefully Michigan hasn't ruined it too much :)

6 of My Many Quirks

2008-07-02T22:17:00.002-04:00

1. I can be annoyed by the most minimal things. Some of the little things that drive me crazy is bouncing of ones foot or tapping of fingernails. One that lately really gets to me is when Deke and I are sitting on the coach watching TV, he will have his arm around the back of the coach and switch the channels. The clicking of the remote so close to my ear drives me crazy! I try to be patient and give him a few minutes but after a few seconds all I have to do is look at him and he knows. Something I need to work on I know!

2. I can be a horrible back seat driver. Deke has given me the name of MapQuest because he says that I always know the best way to go.

3. I am anal about laundry. So many of my clothes I don’t but in the dryer and am terrified that if I allow Deke to do it he will forget and shrink my stuff. Needless to say I am the one that does most of the laundry.

4. There are some things I just love but can’t bring myself to spend the money on them. One thing is professional product for my hair and smelly hand lotion or candles. I love it when I do buy it (or get it as a gift) but hate spending the money on it. There are so many other things I would prefer to spend my money on.

5. I am a little ornery if woken up from a nap. I would like to state that I have gotten better over the years (especially since I got married) but my family and roommates learned quickly that I wasn’t in the best of mood if I was woken from a slumber, that I oblivious needed. Sleep is precious to me, I am trying to get as much as I can NOW!!

6. When I workout I love to sweat! I go to the gym to sweat and workout and not socialize and just go through the motions. I get annoyed by those that stand around and socialize and occupy a weight machine for 30 minutes. I sometimes wonder why I even go and get annoyed with all those that are there. I guess when I am on a cardio machine I have plenty to watch and be entertained by! Deke and I love to share stories with each other what we saw at the gym that day.

I tag Alayna, Rachel and Jennica

Cankles

2008-06-05T09:39:00.002-04:00

Well it is only the beginning of June and they have already started!! During the weekend I have better control over the ugly beasts. Sitting at my desk all day isn't helping the situation. Deke is already referring to me as cankles. It will be interesting to see what other names he will come up with. When I really started showing he switched to calling me prego and yesterday he started in with cankles.

Jen I remember when you were pregnant with Spencer and you worked at the bank and were on your feet all day long. I remember how painful your cankles looked and how I never wanted to experience that unpleasantness. I knew it was bound to happen because my fingers will get a little swollen in the summer time here in Michigan because of the humidity. I just was hoping it wouldn't be until at least July. I can't stand looking at them, they are so gross!

Oh the things we go through for the little ones. I know it will all be worth it when I hold him for the first time!

Surprise I posted...

2008-05-23T09:17:00.002-04:00

So each time a finally post something new I make a new commitment to myself that I will post more often. But then when I think about posting, I really don’t have much to say so 3 weeks go by with no new post.

So what is happening in the Larson’s life?

Deke is super busy with school. How is this still possible? He is in his last semester of classes; I thought this school thing was suppose to get easier. Wednesday is his day from hell, he has 2 classes in the morning and then that night he has Bar Start. How he handles everything and still makes me feel like I am most important in his life is beyond me. Last Friday I came home from work to a very clean home. He had gone crazy! I tried to jump in and help but he wouldn’t allow it. He didn’t want me to have to do anything. He is too good to me!

I am feeling good. Nothing to unusual for a pregnant person I’m sure, but what do I have it to compare too. I’m trying to make it to the gym at least 3 times a week. Some weeks are better than others. I have this heart rate monitor that I programmed in fitness goals when I first got it. Every Monday you get a message letting you know how you did for the week. If you get pretty close to your goals you are rewarded with a Trophy. Well needless to say I have not received a trophy ever since I got pregnant. Oh well I guess I should change the monitors expectations so I can earn my Trophy!

My stomach continues to grow (the joys)! I am noticing that people only look at my stomach now when they walk by me. No more eye contact. I don’t know if I should be self conscious. Deke and I are starting to think of all the things that need to get done. The list is making us feel a little overwhelmed. Hopefully everything with the baby will go smoothly. We are really counting on him not arriving into this world until after Deke takes his last final on August 16th. He then has our permission to arrive as QUICKLY as possible. We are going to put our place up for sale at the beginning of June. Hopefully we will find a buyer before we leave Michigan so we don’t have to continue to pay for a place we aren’t living in. Where does all the time go? I can’t believe it has been 3 years since we left Utah. Our time in Michigan has just flown by. It is crazy to me that we are going to be parents to our little boy in 13 weeks. Way too much is going on but we are so excited to see what life has in store for us as we begin this new chapter. We have been so blessed with everything so far, we know that everything will work out!

I guess I had more to say then I thought this time around. Sorry to make this so long. Real fast wanted to wish my parents luck in all that they have going on too. They received their mission call on Wednesday and are headed to the Germany, Munich/Austria Mission. I think all us daughters were a little surprised with the location. Hopefully my dad can relearn his German quickly (he served his first mission in Germany) and help my Mom out! We will miss you immensely but are so excited for you!

Dr Appt...Yikes!

2008-05-02T08:30:00.003-04:00

Well yesterday I had my 24 week doctor appt. Everything is fine. I had a shocker when I stepped on the scale. It was a little depressing actually. I was expecting to put on a little more than a few pounds but was blown away at the number. I knew I indulged a little bit in Chicago with all the yummy food, but I figured with all the walking we did it wouldn't be that bad. But it was... So, I have gone back to the drawing board and am re-evaluating all that I have been consuming. Hopefully the next 16 weeks I can keep things under control. The doctor didn't seem concerned he just said make sure I didn't have any more months like that one.

Other than my Dr appointment, nothing too exciting happening. We had a good time in Chicago. It was fun hanging out with Deke's little bro and wife. Did some things that were fun some things not so fun (I would not recommend going to the Science and Industry Museum if you aren't taking kids). I'm sure one of us will post some pics from the trip soon.

Happening in Michigan

2008-04-14T08:52:00.001-04:00

Well Deke’s finals start this week, so needless to say I have been alone a lot lately. He is studying hard and staying up way too late! I don’t know how he does it but he manages somehow. I am sure we are both looking forward to when these finals will be over! We keep telling ourselves only 1 more semester. Atleast the end is in sight! Deke came home Saturday for dinner and I got up from the coach and my shirt came up a little and he was all oh you are starting to show. Tells you how much he has been paying attention to me. Just kidding dog, I know you have tons of other things on your mind right now. Just promise me you will pay attention to me when these finals are all done!

We are both looking forward to the week in Chicago coming up. We are excited to hang out with Grimmy and Special K and I’m looking forward to Chicago style pizza and a good old hot dog at Wrigley! I’m just excited to be away from Lansing for awhile. Hopefully the weather will be alright. I’m for sure not expecting warmth and sunshine as I was mistaken last April when we went.

I have all these plans to start getting things done around the house. I went through my closet a few weeks ago but now I think of all the other things that need to be done and feel overwhelmed so what do I do, absolutely nothing. Hopefully this week I can make some more progress with getting rid of some junk we have accumulated and don’t really want to transport back to Utah.

Opening Day

2008-03-31T21:30:00.002-04:00

I guess yesterday was MLB officially opening day. But today was the Tiger's first day. Things didn't turn out the best for them. They ended up losing in 11 innings. Deke and I caught the end of the game. We watched most of the Cubs game as well. Yet another disappointing game the Cubs lost in extra innings too. I guess we got free baseball but both teams lost their first game. I'm sure things will turn around. Atleast we will have something to watch on TV now. That is one thing we will miss when we do leave Michigan. We will miss watching the Tigers. I think I have become a fan for life. Hopefully this year will be the Tiger or Cubs year. Deke is already starting his countdown when we will be at Wrigley watching the cubs in a few weeks. We both are looking forward to a break from Michigan! Chicago is always a good time. Atleast we enjoyed ourselves last time we were there.

Not your Normal Easter Feast

2008-03-24T11:49:00.006-04:00

So instead of ham for dinner with the yummy stuff I decided to make Navajo Tacos with homemade scones. You all should be impressed that I didn't use Rhodes Rolls because that is the extent of my scone making capabilities. Our friends had us over as few weeks ago for the same yummy dinner and she gave me her recipe for homemade scones and said it was pretty easy. So I gave it a shot. They turned out way good and the recipe made a ton so we froze some of the dough as well ready to be fried up for some other time.

I would have to say that the best part is the honey butter that I made to go along with the dessert (scones again). Derrick was even impressed that we thought we would document this huge event of mine (I'm always scared to try new recipes when yeast is involved). The recipe was really easy so give it a try (Jen I know you will, I must say they are better than chuck-a-rama scones!) Let me know what you think if you try the recipe. It is for sure a keeper, I only had to wait 5 mins for the yeast to dissolve and you don't even have to wait for the dough to rise. What a great recipe!

Scones
2 T. dry yeast
2 c. warm water
1/3 c. sugar
1/3 c. melted butter
1 1/2 t. salt
2/3 c. powdered milk
1 egg
5-6 c. flour

Heat oil to 375 degrees. Mix yeast, water, sugar, and butter in a large bowl and let sit for five minutes. Use mixer to incorporate salt, milk, egg, and two cups of flour; beat until smooth. Use a wooden spoon to mix in enough flour to make sticky yet manageable dough. Roll out in batches on a well-floured surface and slice into rectangles. Fry for approx. two minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Enjoy!

Kindof Fun

2008-03-13T12:52:00.002-04:00

Found this on one of Deke's friends blog and had to try it out. I haven't taken one of these since high school probably. I'm sure my Mom and a few of my sisters can probably get a better score. Try it out only takes 60 seconds. I will admit this was the 2nd time taking the test because I was a little confused when I first started and if I had to hit enter or just the spacebar so my first test wasn't as good but it was still a decent score.

80 words

Speed test

HandyMan

2008-03-12T08:17:00.003-04:00

My husband is the best. Last night I went to the gym and when I came out the car wouldn't start. I thought it was just a dead battery, why I don't know because I didn't leave the lights on and Deke just replaced the battery but that was my only guess. So this guy tried to jump the little civic and it wouldn't do anything. Deke was in class until 10 so I called my friend Caroline to see if she could come pick me up and give me a ride home. Her and her husband showed up and he tried to jump the car again and still nothing so they brought me home. When Deke got home from class we headed back to the gym to see if he could figure it out. Again we tried to jump the thing and nothing happened. Deke brought me back home so I could go to bed (it was after 10 so it was getting late for me). He said he would try a few more things and have our friend drive it home if he got it to work.

This morning i woke up and to my suprise the civic was parked in front of our house. My husband is so handy! He told me he replaced a cable and that made it work. It seems like that little civic has been giving us some trouble the last few months. But it seems like my dog solved the mystery now! i'm so lucky he is handy! He seems to be able to fix almost anything. Love my HandyMan!

Not Fair!

2008-02-28T08:53:00.003-05:00

So I was looking at my Google page and I have Lansing weather and then below it I have Sandy weather and I have to say that it isn't fair that those of you in Utah are enjoying 50+ degree weather and I am still stuck in the teens and 20's. I am sick of the cold and am looking forward to the Spring! I'm ready to box up the sweaters! Well enjoy the sun where ever you are! We don't see the sun too much here so when it does come out it makes us happy!

Spring Yet?

2008-02-13T08:29:00.002-05:00

So I don't know about the rest of you but I am sick of the cold and ready for so warmer weather! It has been freezing here in Michigan the last few days! If you have read Deke's blog even he is complaining about the cold so you know it must be cold. We were talking the other night and we both stated how long it takes your body to warm up after you have been out in the cold. It snowed yesterday decently for Michigan standards so my Yoga teacher canceled class so that was a little disappointing. It is funny because I'm taking the class with a couple of my friends at work and one of their husbands and we all really enjoy the class. My friends husband was way more upset about class being canceled then any of us. He really is enjoying yoga.

My new thing lately is digital scrapbooking. My friend let me copy her program so Deke loaded it onto our computer (and i think he now regreats it because it has slowed the computer down tons). Hopefully this will help me get caught up on some of our old pictures. I'm still learning the program so I'm not super fast yet but it is still faster than cutting everything out and playing with it until i like the way it looks on the page. This way I can add stuff and delete it if I don't like it and move it around so much easier. It is really cool. I will post some of my pages that I have completed later on when I'm on our computer.

So I hope you all have great plans for tomorrow, The Day of Love!

18-1..

2008-02-03T22:01:00.000-05:00

What a surprise to see the Giants win the big game and not the cheating Patriots! We were exciting with the outcome from the game. Bill looking his best in his new sweatshirt with the sleeves cut off couldn't even wait for the last snap of the game. He left the field early! Keepin' it classy as usual. I guess the Giants won't be looking to get rid of their head coach this season. Hope you all enjoyed the game, i know my dog enjoyed all the appetizers that were available for his munching (just ask him).

I guess the commercial I liked the best would be when Shaq was the jockey on the horse. I thought that one was pretty cute!

Tagged again but this is about my Dog

2008-01-30T09:03:00.000-05:00

What is his name? Deke
How long have you been married? 4 blissful years
Who long did you date? 3+ years almost 4
How old is he? 4 years older than me, he acts like he is 4 sometimes though
Who eats more sweets? I do unless it is ice cream
Who said I love you first? He did.
Who is taller? He is by about 8 inches.
Who can sing better? Probably me, but he loves to sing me songs!
Who is smarter? Deke of course
Who does the laundry? We do it together because we are white trash and go to a laundry mat!
Who pays the bills? Me
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Deke
Who mows the lawn? Who knows we haven’t had to mow a lawn yet in our life together.
Who cooks dinner? Me mostly, he does make philly cheese steak sandwiches and he takes care of all the pizza mostly.
Who drives? Deke
Who is more stubborn? I probably would say me on this one
Who kissed who first? He did
Who asked who out first? Deke
Who proposed? Deke
Who has more siblings? Deke...he has 4 siblings, I have 3.
Who wears the pants? I would say Deke wears the pants

Look What I Did

2008-01-19T12:38:00.000-05:00

Are you impressed? Thanks Jen for sending the instructions on how to change my template. Once I got the hang of it, it wasn't too bad. I did spend a lot of this morning playing around with it. I'm all ready for next month and my valentine theme. But I thought it was more appropriate for a winter theme since this weekend is so cold. I think the high is going to be around 11. And it is so deceiving outside because the sun is actually shining. Hope you are all staying warm where ever you are!

Go Mitt!

2008-01-16T08:49:00.000-05:00

Maybe Michigan isn't so bad, I was glad to see that Mitt won in the Primary yesterday. Hopefully that will help him out in SC this weekend and I think he has a good chance in Nevada as well. I guess everyone at work assumes that I would vote for him because he is a Mormon, so those that do like him make sure I know that they are voting for Mitt. Sounds good to me!

Also Deke thought it would be note worthy for me inform those that might be interested that the series that I posted about earlier Dexter, is going to be shown on CBS starting February 17th. I guess with the writers still being on strike CBS is going to run the first series. I would recommend watching if you have nothing else going on.

I'm giving in...I've been tagged

2008-01-15T19:18:00.000-05:00

The RULES:
A. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.
B. Each player lists 6 facts/habits about themselves.
C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog....

#1
Some things that I have decided to work on for 2008:
-Be more patient with others
-Read my scriptures on a more regularly (I'm not shooting for everyday because i am trying to be realistic)
-Eat better and be more aware of the things I am eating (sounds funny but i think i kid myself sometimes on how bad something is for me, for example chinese food, it is chicken and chicken is protein right so it can't be that bad, who am i kidding)

#2
I am really into cooking lately. My husband probably could kill me for all the stupid cooking shows I watch on the Food Network. But he must admit I have made some tasty things lately. If you don't get the Kraft magazine they send out for free I recommend going to their website and sign up to get it. I love it and I'm looking forward to my Rachael Ray magazine that should be arriving any time now (thanks Jen!!)

#3
I go through phases where I can't read enough and then I will go months without picking up a book. I love to read but for some reason this always happens.

#4
I love a good workout! I guess right now I am in a workout rut, I'm sick of running and lifting weights I'm look for anything new. I miss going to a good gym and being able to change things up with a step aerobics, weight or spinning class. Right now I'm resorting to my home dvd/video workout collection to switch things up a couple days a week.

#5
I wish I was more of a history buff. Ever since I met Deke he has taught me more things about our country and world's history than I ever learned in school. It isn't that I wasn't taught history, I guess I just didn't pay enough attention.

#6
I too like my sister Rachel, color my hair to keep the gray away. I have been doing this for years and I'm 29. Yikes, looks like I'm in for the long haul of coloring my hair. My friend Jessica and I would sit around on a Sunday afternoon and pluck each others gray hair out. It kept us busy for hours. Now I find out I should of just let them be as it is worse to pluck them. oops! But if there is one standing straight up I can't just leave it there.

It's Official...

2008-01-07T11:01:00.000-05:00

I am getting released from nursery next Sunday. After being in there since we moved to Michigan I am ready to be done washing sippy cups every week! Looks like I am going to be just hanging out at church with nothing to do for awhile, but that is alright by me!!

So that is the biggest news of the week. We have been getting tons of rain here for the last couple of days. All the snow is melted. Today when I woke up it was already 56 degrees outside. Craziness, but I’ll take it. Warmer weather is all right by me. Derrick is starting up with his classes this week. I’m sure that will keep him busy for awhile. He gets stir crazy during his breaks when he is home by himself all day. Hopefully this week we will get back into the swing of things. Last week I was a slacker must of the week so this week I should get back to my routine. I signed up to take a Yoga class again with some friends from work. I am excited for it to start next week; I really enjoyed it last year.

Derrick and I have been watching the Showtime series Dexter on DVD. I think I am enjoying it more than he is but he is watching them with me anyways. Saturday night we watched like 5 episodes. It is really an interesting series. Then yesterday after I took my Sunday nap (Derrick has been staying up way too late so he didn’t want to take a nap in hopes he could get to bed at a descent hour) we watched the 25th Hour. It was an interesting movie. Both Derrick and I really bought into Ed Norton’s character. I would recommend the movie but beware Spike Lee directed it so it has the typical Spike Lee kind of language in the movie.

Well those are the happenings for the last couple of days. Hopefully I can be a better blogger and post more frequently then once a month!

My day in court...

2007-12-09T21:15:00.000-05:00

Saturday I went with Derrick to class so I could be a witness for him in his trial skills class. Derrick thinks it is funny that I was nervous but I really didn't know what to expect. I read over my deposition many times and Derrick asked me questions to make sure I knew what was going on. But when it was all said and done I kept my cool on the witness stand and actually had a fun time doing it. When I was cross examined by Derrick's classmate that was a little scary but it went good. It was fun to see what my dog has been doing in law school. Derrick did a good job, I was impressed. I got to sit through the end of the trial where he gave his closing statement. I met his buddy professor that he goes to the coffee shop with. He told me that Derrick will make a great attorney. It is hard for me to believe that this journey is almost over. The time here in Michigan has gone by fast, I'm ready to be back home but I can't believe where the time goes. It feels like we just got here in ways.

Deke has been busy preparing for his final that is Wednesday. I'm excited to have my husband back when he is done with everything. He has been putting in some long days and nights. I swear last week we spent no time together. Hopefully the next two semesters won't be as busy at the end of the semester. Everything should be winding down now.

We are looking forward to our trip home in a week and half. We will be seeing everyone very soon!

I have been a slacker!!

2007-11-30T14:22:00.000-05:00

So I am not much a blogger. I knew I wouldn't be very good at this. Here is an update on what has been happening here in Michigan.

Derrick's parents came out for a visit over Thanksgiving. We had Thanksgiving dinner at our house and Adam and Natalie Clark (our friends) came over with their two adorable little girls Amber and Karli (they provided much entertainment as usual). Dinner was good, I have had better turkey but what can you do. Everything else was great!

Friday we just hung out in Lansing for the most part. Deke and Stephen headed off to the movies and me and Lola headed to the mall.

After Deke’s class on Saturday we headed down to Cleveland. We didn’t get there until later on that night so everything was all closed up. We went to dinner and the Winking Lizard (deke’s favorite spot in Cleveland) and then just hung out in the hotel room talking and watching football.

Sunday we headed to Kirtland. When we arrived at the Church’s visitor center Lola’s cousin was serving a missing in Kirtland so he was our tour guide. He did a very good job and had many things to tell us. Then we drove up to the temple and waited forever for a tour. The Community of Christ has possession of the temple and so they have scheduled times when they take the tour. So we hung out for about an hour and then were the only ones on the tour. The temple is cool it just has a different spirit about it then Kirtland. It was interesting what we were told about the temple and what happened there. To us it seemed like they left off one of the most significant events that happened there. Makes you question if they really understand the importance of the temple and all that took place there.

Monday Stephen and Lola headed back to the airport for their long flight home. Derrick and I had a really good time with them here. It made me realize how nice it is to be with family on the holidays! We are glad they made the trek out to the Great Lakes area. We hope they enjoyed their time here.

Work is pretty much the same old thing. Derrick is very busy trying to finish up the semester and study for a final. He only has one final this semester but he is loaded with tons of assignments to have done by the end of next week. He has to prepare a trail for next Saturday and guess who is star witness, ME! I am going to blow the case wide open for my Dog! Hopefully he will get to relax after his final in a couple of weeks before we fly home for Christmas. I haven’t official started the count down that is Joshua’s job (only 19 more days!).

Well I hope everyone is in good health and getting excited for Christmas, I know I am. I can’t wait to be back in Utah with our family and friends.

Ode to Grimmy and Special K

2007-11-11T21:00:00.000-05:00

Make sure you catch the last 20 seconds at the end. Too Cute!!

Our 4th Anniversary

2007-11-10T14:32:00.000-05:00

Wednesday was our 4th Anniversary. Deke earned some points by sending these flowers to me at work. It was totally unexpected. Deke doesn't send flowers too many times (it was his 3rd time) so needless to say he surprised me. I ordered him a picture of Maglio Ordonez hitting the game winning home run in the 2006 ALCS series. He didn't get it yet, it won't arrive until November 22 but it will be framed and everything when it gets here.

My dog had class until 9 that night but he came home to a yummy candle light dinner that I had prepared. I would have to say that it was probably my favorite anniversary so far. Hopefully there will be many more to top this one to come, hint hint dog ;) Both of us can't believe where all the time has gone. I'm so thankful for my dog and all he does for me. He is too good to me. I'm looking forward to the future and all it holds for us! Love you dog!

Weekend Happenings

2007-11-04T21:19:00.000-05:00

I live for the weekends and they come and go so fast. Friday after work my dog and I headed to the movies to see American Gangster starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. We were both pretty excited for the movie and were maybe just a little disappointed with it. It was a good movie don't get me wrong but it wasn't all that we had hoped it would be. Friday night we decided to go grab something to eat at Wendy's and after we shut the locked door to our house Deke realized he didn't have the keys. We tried to break into the house through the kitchen window that worked for us the first time we locked ourselves out of the house. But the windows were locked so there was no getting in. We walked over to our friends house to get the number to call for someone in the complex to come let us in. Thank goodness he called right back and came and let us in. Needless to say I think we have learned our lesson to lock the door after we leave the house.

Saturday around 11 at night we decided to head to our most favorite place on earth, Meijer (a grocery store chain here in Michigan). We decided it was time to take back all the empty pop cans to get the 10 cents back that we were already charged (they make you recycle your cans to get the 10 cents back). Well we load them all up (and it had been awhile so we had few) and head to our favorite place in Lansing. On the door to the store they have posted that the bottle return is full so they are not able to return any pop cans. This did not go over well with us but what can you do. So we had to put them back in the car and bring them back home. Not very productive shopping trip. I would switch to a different grocery store but our choices here are very limited and Kroger (the other grocery chain here) has already made us both pretty mad we have sworn off shopping at that store.

I have to give a SHOUT OUT to Karli today, it is her big 30th Birthday! Kar, I hope you had a good birthday! I'm glad that we have stayed friends for all these years! I hope you will always be a part of my life. I tried to call but I'm sure you are out celebrating. I will give you ring tomorrow to see how the big day was.
Just remember that... 30's HOT!!

Kite Runner

2007-11-04T20:58:00.000-05:00

I just finished reading the book The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to any readers out there looking for a good book to read. They are releasing a movie in December based on the book. Deke's dad was reading it when we were home in August and recommended it to me. Hopefully the movie will do justice to the book. Check out the trailer...

Check it Out

2007-10-25T20:42:00.001-04:00

So My Dog thought up this clever name for my blog (he says it is my porn name, take the name of your first pet, and the street you grew up on) and I couldn't pass up the chance to use his cleverness! Now I will have to come up with things to post about. My life is pretty uneventful, I just work 5 days to get 2 days off. And I can't tell you how I look forward to those 2 days off. We have been here in Michigan for a little over 2 years now, only 1 more to go! We are both looking forward to no more exams! I'm sure Deke is a little more excited than I am since he is the one that as to do ALL the studying. Hopefully one day his life won't be as stressful, but I doubt it. Is life ever less stressful?