Hawaii Anniversary Trip

So I am not sure how many people update or follow blogs anymore, but I have decided that I am not a Facebooker and want to update my blog about life in my world more frequently. So with that being said, I am going to start with the first exciting thing that happened for us this year.

Brad and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary on January 23rd. Each year we take turns planning a way to celebrate our anniversary and since this was a big one we wanted to celebrate in a big, fun way. We decided on Hawaii. After talking with Grandma Patti during the summer to see if she would be able to watch the kids for a week, we got our go ahead and started planning, making reservations, and counting down. We left for Oahu on January 11th and got home the morning of January 19th. We enjoyed every minute we were there! We started our trip out with a two hour massage the morning after we arrived. It was really funny because Brad said to me that I can't leave the massage place when we get there and I see it. When you see massages taking place on tropical islands you usually think massage on the beach next to each other, well this was not the case for us. We pull down this alleyway in the middle of the city nowhere near the beach and all we see are mechanic shops and a sign for Island Massage upstairs. Now I understood why Brad told me I couldn't turn around and leave. Well, I do have to say it was the best massage I have ever had and I keep telling Brad that I need to go see Maria and not just because it is in Hawaii, she knows what she is doing and Brad's was just as good. The girl that did his massage was so good, she put him to sleep. Anyway, it was a great way to start the trip. Later that day we found our favorite beach, Waimanalo. The waves were fun to ride and the sand beneath the water was extremely soft and there was no algae in the water. It was the best! Throughout our week we visited the Polynesian Cultural Center and Pearl Harbor and we thought both were neat, but won't visit them again unless the kids are with us. In fact, we thought the 'PCC' was a waste of a day and wish we would have just done the night show. One funny thing that did happen at the Luau at the 'PCC' was they invited all people celebrating "love" up on stage for a dance. One couple from our table went up too and when they had the couples step forward who were celebrating ten years or more her eyes about popped out of her head when she saw us step forward. They popped out of her head a second time when we got back to our table and she asked if and how many kids we had. LOL! Our favorite thing to do was to drive and beach hop. We drove to North Shore and loved the town and shops and beaches there also. Its funny we have talked about the places we ate and our top favorites were at North Shore. So North Shore is known for its huge waves and we learned that waves are measured from the back not where they peak. So a 5 foot wave may look like 7 feet from where you sit on the beach. Anyway, we went to Waimea Bay expecting to enjoy calm water and that was not the case. The lifegaurds got on the intercom and gave a warning that only people with experience, a board, and fins were allowed in the water due to the 15 foot waves and the undercurrent. They would also go up to families that would approach the beach and basically tell them to leave and gave them names of kid friendly beaches for that day. It was pretty cool to see the waves and people riding them, but for a chicken like myself they were very intimidating to say the least. We did not get in the water at that bay and headed down the shore later on so that we could get in the water where those huge waves were a lot further out. Another fun thing that we did and enjoyed was Hanauma Bay and snorkeling. I remember living in Pennsylvania and having to learn to snorkel in swim class, so I figured this was something that I could do and wouldn't chicken out. Well two things, first when we lived in Pennsylvania I was eight years old and second that was in a pool and not the ocean. I got pretty nervous and finally just took the plunge and did it. I told Brad that I sounded like Darth Vader making sure I was breathing right. We had a blast and it was totally fun to do something out of my comfort zone. We had underwater cameras and you can tell who took what pictures. Brad would get right next to the fish and I would get just close enough. It was a really fun day. One thing that amazed us was the amount of Asian tourists there. Our last night there we went on a dinner cruise. We took a bus from the hotel to the ship and Brad and I were the first ones on the bus. So here we are sitting on the bus and watching every person get on and they were all Asian. We were beginning to wonder if we had gotten on the right bus until the last couple to get on was Caucasian. We had a fun time on the cruise and enjoyed our last night there. Our last day (since we had a red eye flight) we went back to our favorite spot Waimanalo Beach and enjoyed our last day. We had a spectacular time and can't wait to go back. It was so relaxing and so fantastic for Brad and I to be together without the kids. It was also great to know that we didn't have to worry about the kids while we were gone and to know that they were in good hands. Thanks Grandma!!! Thanks Brad for the trip and for the last 10 years!!!!!!!

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I Did it Again

I love Zumba and have been doing it at least once a week for about 15 months, it is an addiction I have. What is even better is that we have a certified instructor in our ward who does a free class once or twice a week. So last Monday here I was at Zumba, a few minutes into the class, and I went to lock the building doors as per our bishops request. On my way out I was watching Kenzi, as long as she didn't see me I was good. She caught me as I was jogging out and I turned around to get her so she would not scream and just as I turned I stepped on a kid's flip flop which threw my ankle off and it rolled all the way out and then all the way in and I fell to the floor. In those short seconds a couple thoughts ran through my head oh sh*#, who saw that, and what am I going to do. Jackson saw me sitting on the floor and I yelled at him to get my phone and I called Brad's cell phone. Luckily he answered and I said, "Brad I just busted my ankle, I am at the church, what do I do?" He said he was on his way. I started to get really light headed and blacked out and at the moment I knew I needed to lay down or I was going to pass out. I was better after laying down and two of my friends noticed and came over, got a chair for me to put my foot on and a yoga mat for my head. I called my sister in law, Kat, and asked her if she could watch the kids and said yes. A little bit later I hear my friend say, "Isn't it great to have a knight in shining armor." YES IT IS!! We got out to the car, the kids to Kat's, and to the Urgent Care and about three and a half hours from the time I rolled it we found out that it was a pretty good sprain, I was put in a big walking boot, on crutches, told to stay off it for about a week, and a referral for physical therapy.

This is 5th time in my life that I have sprained/broke my ankle. The last time I injured it was 12 years ago when I was a senior in high school. My poor parents to have dealt with it four different times. Brad has really been my Knight in Shining Armor. He has recently been put in as the project manager for his work and a new marketing company, so he has a TON on his plate. He took time off to take me to the doctor, took some half days, stayed up late to work and catch up on what he missed, did the laundry, went grocery shopping, bathed and got the kids to bed on time. On top of that on the days that he wasn't home to feed the kids lunch he had bottles and drinks in the fridge, lunch ready to go in the microwave with instructions written out for Jackson to follow along with snacks on the counter and the step stool out so the kids could reach them. And he helped me with everything from getting my ice to wrapping my ankle before bed to getting my book. What an amazing man!!!! I am the luckiest women alive. I am so blessed and I hope you know how appreciative I am of you. Thanks babe, I Love You!! The kids have also been so helpful and curious as to how I am doing. Jackson knows and has loved being the helper with lunch, cleaning up and Kenzi. I know that I am very blessed!! It is amazing what you tend to take for granted and what happens to make you realize that you have. I LOVE MY LOVE, MY KIDS, AND MY LIFE!!

'Good Times Were Had By All' Disneyland 2011

Back in February Brad and I talked about wanting to take our first family trip. Disneyland was always a front runner, but we were worried that the two girls would not enjoy it or be able to go on many rides. We asked a lot of friends who have been with tiny ones what their thoughts were and they all said to go. So we decided to go. We wanted to tell the kids in a fun way, so we ordered a Disney Vacation DVD and when it got here we told the kids that we were having movie night and that mom and dad got to pick the movie. We made popcorn and turned the movie on. When the train rides and monorail came on the screen Jackson was all grin, ear to ear. So, we anxiously waited over the next two months making trip errands on the weekends for beach toys, swimsuits and summer clothes, glitter toes for mom, and testing out the new DVD player in the car. We left on May 6th and drove to Vegas. We decided to stay at Excalibur on the strip so the kids could say they stayed at a castle. As we were driving down the strip, walking through the casino to get to registration it did not take Brad and I long to figure out that we were fish out of water with three kids in Veagas. We wanted to take the kids to the M&M store and the Coke store that night, but we were so uncomfortable being out from all the looks we were getting and having to walk through the casino to get anywhere else that we went to the golden arches for dinner and stayed in our room the rest of the night. The kids enjoyed it because we had a room on the 21st floor that overlooked New York New York's roller coaster. (Don't get me wrong, I love Vegas as does Brad, but go as a couple and not as a young family.) As my brother said to me that night, "Tomorrow you will be at a place where you fit in." He was right, we got to Anaheim on Saturday evening and we stayed at the Fairfield Inn across from Disneyland. As we pulled in we woke up Addi and told the kids we were finally there and you could just feel the excitement. We had 3 day park hopper passes and our first day at Disneyland was Sunday, Mother's Day and National Gothic Day. They had cast members handing out a carnation to each mom to pin on her shirt. It was awesome to walk down the main street and to feel the magic as you look at other people, the characters that were out, and at all the sites. Our first ride that morning was Big Thunder Mountain and on our way to the ride we came along Woody and Jesse. Sometimes its not so great to have shy kids as only Addi would go up to them and when she got there she would not leave dad's arms. We got to Big Thunder Mountain and I promised myself that if Jackson wanted me to go on something I would go because I did not want him to sense my fear of heights, so Jackson and I went first and we got a switch pass for Brad. What a blast! Towards the end Jackson was saying 'Mom I want to get off!' We got off and then he went again with Brad. Later that day Brad and Jackson went on Space Mountain and got another switch pass for Jackson and I to go after. After waiting an hour for the ride Jackson came off and DID NOT want to go again because of the dark. We enjoyed the merry-go-round about two times that day, Dumbo once, and the tea cups twice. We watched all the Gothics walk around and in the bathroom I heard a little girl say to her mom, 'Why are there all these people dressed in Halloween costumes?' I got a really good laugh at that. We waited for the fireworks that night in front of the castle, but because of high winds they were canceled, but all in all we had a great first day!!! On Monday we hung out at the hotel, went and saw the movie Rio, and went to the hotel pool. On Tuesday we had made reservations for breakfast with Mickey and his friends. We went to the PCH Grille at one of the Disney Hotels and this was totally awesome!! We met Mickey, Minney, Daisey, Goofey, and Stitch. They came right up to the table and gave the kids hugs, signed their books, danced with them up on the stage and the kids (and even mom and dad) had a great time. When we went to the park Brad and Jackson went on some big rides and the girls and I headed over to the Princess Fantasy Walk. After a looooong hour and 45 minute wait Addi got to meet Belle, Cinderella, and Ariel. Though the pictures may not show it, she was excited to meet them and keeps telling me they signed her book. Throughout the day we came aross Raprunzel and Buzz. Rapunzel came up to Addi in her Tinkerbelle outfit and asked her if she used her wings to fly to Disneyland and if Addi could teach her to fly. Buzz gave Jackson a high five. Later that day we went to Pixie Hollow and met Vidia and Addi's favorite, Tinkerbell. Addi was sooo excited to meet Tink and we were just glad that Tink was there. Tink looked at Addi's fairy wings and talked with her and Addi actually returned Tink's hug. We went on many more rides some for the first time and others for the second or third and ate a huge fried turkey leg (yum!). Wednesday we took the kids to Newport Beach for the day and we had such a great time. Jackson loved the waves, Addi loved having Brad make Sleeping Beauty's Castle, and Kenzi loved the sand and having the space to roam. We did not want to leave the beach and neither did the kids. Our last day was Thursday. We spent the morning at Disneyland and the afternoon and evening at California Adventure. At California Adventure we met Pluto and Donald Duck and a couple of our favorite rides are there. Jackson wore his pirate costume and handed Pluto his sword pen to sign his book and Pluto took the pen and held it in a way to start a sword fight with Jackson. Jackson thought that was pretty funny. We went on Soarin' Over California and Jackson and Brad went first because there were signs saying if you are afraid of heights this ride is not for you and if Jackson did not want to go again I would rather me not be able to go then Brad. So they get off the ride and Jackson absolutely loved it and wanted to go again. I was really nervous and hesitant to go, but I did and loved it. The lady on the other side of Jackson was getting a good laugh when she saw how tight I was holding on before the ride had even started. Later that afternoon Jackson asked Brad if he wanted to go on Califonia Screamin' which is a huge, fast, roller coaster with a loop and they both loved it to the point that Jackson wanted to go again. It was really cute though he kept complaining that his neck was bothering him afterward and Brad said that he really tensed up when the ride took off and was that way the whole time while being whipped around. But he still loved it. We had plans to see World of Color that night and we wanted to make sure we had a great place to watch it as Jackson has been watching it on YouTube the last two months, so we made reservations at Ariel's Grotto since tickets for the preferred seating area came with dinner. We went and got a spot and soon the show began and we all had huge smiles on our faces, but a few minutes into it the water stopped and the lights came back on in the park and there was an announcement saying that the show was cancelled due to technical difficulties. We were SOOO upset! This was supposed to be our big grand finale and we did not get it. Addi kept saying 'I'm so mad right now' and Jackson kept saying 'at least we can still watch it on YouTube.' We left the next morning and stayed in St. George for an extra day and came home Sunday.

I LOVE Disneyland!! It really is the happiest place on earth (even with a few hiccups). You see parents dancing around with their kids, dad's wearing princess backpacks, kid's dressed in costumes of their favorite characters, and more special to me is seeing the magic light up our kids' faces. One of our favorite rides was Small World because all three of the kids especially Kenzi just paused and literally took in everything all three times that we went on it. We had such a fabulous time that NONE of us wanted to come home. I even cried when we left! We can't wait to go back!!!!!!

Here is a link to see our fun pictures.

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Winter Fun

The kids loved playing in the snow this winter, especially when Brad was home to go outside with them and help build a snowman. Addi was really hesitant at first and only lasted about 10 minutes the first time. But the second time she loved it. Since our house faces north we have had snow on our lawn up until the last week or so and Addi has still been eating it. We would tell her how gross and dirty it was, but she didn't care (guess I need to remember that I am talking about the child that ate 1 or 2 rolly polly bugs and rocks when she was 1). We had a fun winter, but we are SO excited for spring and summer and are anxious to kiss winter goodbye!!

Mckenzie's First Birthday

Mckenzie turned one on January 12th. I can not believe that my baby is already one! It seems like not that long ago we brought her home from the hospital. She is such an amazing baby girl and is so full of life. She follows her brother and sister everywhere they go and tries to join in with them in all they do. She loves to give hugs and is very cuddly. She makes me smile.

For her birthday we had family over for dinner, cake, and ice cream. She wasn't all that sure about opening presents, but had LOTS of help from her big sister. She loves the gifts she was given and is very territorial when Jackson and Addi play with them or take them away from her.

We ordered her cake through Walmart and the cake decorator took the napkins that we were using so she could make the cake identical to the birthday decorations. I was actually pretty impressed.

Walmart also made an individual cake for a penny for the birthday girl to dig into and enjoy. She wasn't so sure about it at first, but....

she really got into it and had to have a bath immediately after. She had cake in her hair, ears, up her nose, it was everywhere. I think she enjoyed it. We had a fun time. To our big one year old, We Love You!!

December 2010, Part 2, Christmas

We had such a fun Christmas season this year. Jackson and Addi understand more and more each year. The season started off with Jackson and Addi spending the night at Grandma Patti's early in December to help decorate her Christmas tree. This has been a yearly tradition with Jackson and this was Addi's first year. They both had so much fun and Grandma always goes the extra mile. Both of the kids came home with new Christmas pillow cases on their pillows that she had made and they both were so sad to see the sleepover end. Brad and I both traveled this month, me for fun and Brad for work, so the month went by too fast. We live in such a great and fun neighborhood and ward. We were constantly receiving treats and gifts from friends and enjoyed giving out my Great Grandma Rowley's chili sauce. On Christmas Eve we had a fun night, full of anticipation and excitement at Grandma Patti and Pappa Joe's with Aunt Jenni and Uncle Justin. We came home and once again Santa's elves had dropped off new pajamas for everyone including mom and dad this year. They also left a magic Santa key to hang on the front door Christmas Eve to let Santa in since Jackson was so concerned this year about how Santa gets in since we do not have a fireplace. The kids woke up around 7:00 Christmas morning and surprisingly followed instructions to "come and get mom and dad up before going in the front room". Addi was not feeling well that morning and did not want to do anything. When we got out into the front room she fell to the floor and fell back asleep. The kids were so excited and had tons of fun opening their gifts as did mom and dad. We had our family tradition of Hot Roll Pull Aparts for breakfast and let the kids enjoy the afternoon with their toys and a visit from Uncle Greg. Later that evening we went to Grandma Donna's and Pappa Kirk's house for Christmas dinner, exchange gifts with cousins and siblings, talk to Uncle Paul, and enjoyed a great game of spoons. Just as every Christmas Day Night, I came home, sat down, and stared at the tree and felt sad. I LOVE the Christmas season and as the day came to an end I was sad that all the excitement, happiness, giving, and focusing on our Savior's birth was done for another year and wondered if I did all I could have in the past days to embrace the kids and such fun moments in our lives. And just like every other year I promise myself that next year will be just as great, if not better. :)

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December 2010, Part 1, NYC

Yes, I am a little behind (as usual), but better late then never. I had the opportunity to go to the big apple with my sister and best friend and we had an amazing time. Brad went to the Utah Notre Dame game back in November as did my sister's husband. My sister and I watched the game together and talked to each other a ton that weekend because neither one of us like being home alone. On one telephone conversation she said we need a girl's trip, so we decided to think about it and talk the next day. When she called the next day I told her that I thought about Park City or St. George and she said that we were so not on the same page and she was thinking Chicago, San Francisco, or NYC. We decided to go for it when her hubby found a great deal on plane tickets the next day. We had such a fabulous time. We stayed less then a block from Times Square, shopped, saw the Twin Towers site, took the subway, ate great food, but my favorite part were the Broadway plays we saw. Phantom of the Opera and Wicked. Phantom was amazing and the girl who played the main part had the most amazing voice. I have never heard such a strong, loud, clear, amazing voice. However, Wicked is my favorite of the two. The story line was great and the music was just amazing. I loved every minute of it and could see it over and over again. I decided that I could go to NYC and just see plays. We had a great time and can't wait to go again. Thanks sis for the great trip! I still look back and laugh at all the silly things (milfo pla and the 29 year old grandma walking down the stairs) and all the great talks we had. It was a blast! Thanks to my Love for making my dream of seeing NYC at Christmastime come true and letting me go, taking time off work and taking care of the kids, and giving me a much needed break. I love you babe!

Halloween

We had a fun Halloween. We carved pumpkins the night before and watched Scared Shrekless and Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin. Addi was a little hesitant to put her hands in the pumpkin and pull out the guts and for the first time Jackson was excited to carve his own pumpkin and pull out the innards. Living in Utah County we are one of the rare Utah fans so Brad wanted to make sure everyone knew how excited we are about their move to the Pac-12. For trick-or-treat night Joe and Patti came down and we had taco soup and corn bread and later made wassail. We watched the Utes play Air Force and passed out candy and we took turns taking the kids trick-or-treating. We had a great Halloween and the kids looked pretty darn cute in their costumes.

Family Pictures

We had family pictures done a little over a week ago. About a year ago we saw some pictures that were taken down at the old Provo Mental Hospital and ever since I have wanted our family pictures taken there. When we would tell people where we were having them taken a lot of them would just laugh and what's even funnier is that I tell my kids that "they are going to send me to provo!" Anyway, here is the link to the photographer's blog that has a few pictures... http://claytonhansenphotography.blogspot.com/

Jackson's First day of School and 6th Birthday

Jackson started school on August 31st. For the most part I think he loves going to kindergarten. He has only had one day where he came home upset and said, "I don't want to be a kindergartner anymore." Some days he is more than willing to do his homework and others he is your typical child and throws a fit to do it. Some days I can not believe how much homework he comes home with and even I feel overwhelmed and we are just beginning. It has been nice having those three hours with just the girls. At first Addi I think felt a little lost and kept asking where Jackson was and now she has realized that she can go into his room and play without being told to get out. Her favorite part of the day is taking Jackson to the bus stop and picking him up. When he gets on the bus she stands on the corner, watches him get on and waves as they pull away. When he gets off the bus she yells "Jackson!" The other day Brad went into work late and took Jackson to the bus stop and she was devastated that she didn't get to walk him down.

Jackson has been wanting a train birthday party up at the cabin for months. We were unable to have his party at the cabin so we tried hard to make it a TRAIN birthday. The day of his birthday we gave him the option of where he wanted to go for dinner and he chose Chucke Cheese. The kids had a great time playing games and eating pizza. We had his party with the family on the 12th. Brad made birthday invitations in the form of train tickets and Jackson wore a train engineer costume. He loved his cake and all the presents he got. Thanks everyone for making it a special day for him!

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Mckenzie Beth Scott

So I am quite behind in my posts and figured that I would start fresh from here on out, but wanted to catch up on Kenzi. She is eight months old now and is just beautiful. She keeps us busy crawling everywhere and pulling herself up on everything. Here is a view of Kenzi and of our life as a family of five....

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Jacksonisms

I helped out in Jackson's preschool class on Halloween. His teacher came up to me and said that Jackson's class is her loudest class and she is constantly telling them to be quiet. One morning she asked them to be quiet and Jackson raised his hand, she called on him and he said, "Yep we need to be quiet for Jesus." (Keep in mind this is preschool, not church!)

Jackson was getting ready for bed and said to me with his hands on his lower back, "Mom, I need some Voltarin for my back because it hurts and that's what Voltarin is for, so I need some." Maybe we watch to much TV. It amazes me what he picks up. I have no idea if that is what Voltarin is used for, but we are hoping that he doesn't pick up some of the other drug commercials.

Brad's parents took Jackson and Addison for a day in October so Brad and I could spend the day together for Brad's birthday. They were in the car and all the sudden Joe turned to Patti and said, "Did Jackson just say what I think he said?" Joe asked Jackson what he said and Jackson said, "No I will not have sex with you. I don't care how bad you want it, lady." Again, maybe we watch to much TV. Brad and I are huge Friends fans and watch the reruns a lot. For those of you who share this addiction with us you will know the episode with Ross and Rachel on the airplane to LasVegas.

Back in August the movie Sixteen Candles was on Starz a few times. Well, for those of you who have seen the classic will get a laugh out of this one. We had it on for the third time and all the sudden Brad and I hear Jackson say, "No more yanky my wanky!" Enough said.

Also on Starz they have been playing Back to the Future and Jackson and Brad had been watching it. One evening we hear Jackson say, "Holy Shit!" (As I am typing this, I really am realizing how much TV we watch. UGH!)

Jackson had gotten in trouble and as I was talking to him about what he did he says to me, "But I'm only a teenager!"

(The kids definitely keep us on our toes. It's moments like these that make us laugh over and over again and remind us that we would not change anything about where we are in our lives.)

Swine Flu

Yes, the swine flu hit the Scott residence on the 18th. Our ward was almost cancelled that day due to so many families being sick with the swine flu, strep, seasonal flu, and other illnesses. Brad and Jackson went before sacrament so Brad could take care of the program and ask what the status was on having church. The first counselor in the bishopric told Brad to tell me to stay home and to not risk coming to church and getting sick. Jackson and Brad ended up staying for sacrament meeting. Later that day I noticed Jackson's eyes were a little pink, but didn't really think anything of it. The next morning he woke up with a cough and a stuffy nose and thank goodness we decided to keep him home from preschool. The following day I had plans to go down to the county health dept and stand in line for the H1N1 vaccine, but Jackson woke up with a sore throat added to the others. I debated all morning whether to still go or not and just as I had decided to go and was getting the kids ready he started throwing up. A few hours later he started running a fever. I took him into the doctor and they said that he had it. Great! She also said that his blood shot eyes were part of it and that they were seeing that a lot with the swine flu. So from Tuesday to Friday afternoon we delt with fevers as high as 104. Brad stayed home and completely took care of Jackson and kept me away from him to help me from getting it since I am considered high risk if I were to get it. What a yucky week. Jackson watched about 20 movies in those few days and was always so good to wear a mask when he was around the rest of us. He still has a cough and stuffy nose, but is much, much better. Lucklily none of the rest of us have gotten it. We went through one and a half bottles of Chlorox wipes, a bottle of hand sanitizer, and a bottle of Lysol in that week and then Monday I went through the house and disinfected every nook and crany, so I felt comfortable having people over. We also on Tuesday went down to the health dept and stood in line for four and a half hours for Jackson, Addi, and I to get the vaccine and we got it! YAY!! I just wish that Brad would have been able to have gotten it. I hope that all of you stay healthy and that this flu season does not hit your homes, but if it does good luck!

We Are Still Here!!

Hello everyone! Yes, we are still here. Brad has pointed out to me many times that I have not posted for awhile and I did not realize that it had been that long. So here is an update as to what we have been up to and about our summer.

Jackson has kept us pretty busy lately. He had a fun summer playing with friends and riding his bike around the neighborhood. He learned to ride his bike this summer without his training wheels and boy did he think he was hot stuff. He also had his first big crash on his bike this summer. He didn't have his helmet on and totally scraped up his face. His lip was so swollen that he looked like he had Shrek lips. The poor kid!! Lately he has kept us busy with preschool (no he's not in kindergarten because he missed the deadline by days), he just got done playing soccer and will start swim lessons again next week. He really enjoyed playing soccer. The first game he scored three goals, the second game he kicked the ball all the way down the field and scored one goal, and then I think he lost a little interest because the rest of the season we had to encourage him to get in there and get ball. He had a lot of fun playing. He also has been down the Alpine Slide twice this summer and the Alpine Coaster once and he absolutley LOVED it. That was good for me to see that afterall he is not taking after me. He is at the same preschool as last year and loves it and his new teacher.

Addison keeps us on our toes and is talking up a storm! She loves to follow Jackson around and just idealizes him. He doesn't seem to mind it the majority of the time, but sometimes he wants his own space. She seems to think she is just as big as he is. She loves to go outside and whenever anyone goes out the door she is right there saying "outside" and begging to go with them. She loves to tell people "by" and "see ya" and it seems that lately her favorite words are "thank you". She is fearful of nothing and is our little daredevil. She follows after her dad and again that is great for me to see. I really do not want my kids being like me in regards to things like that. She loves her babydoll and when you mention the word baby she will pat her belly. She is my little shadow and is wherever I am. January will be a hard month for her (and probably the rest of us). People have pointed out to me that she just has to hear my voice and freaks out until she finds me, wish us luck!

Brad and I had a good summer. We were able to go and be "parents" up at youth conference and what a wonderful experience. It was an even better experience sharing it together. Brad has been busy with work and trying to finish up completing the garage. He has enjoyed riding his Harley this summer and playing in the yard with Jackson and Addi. I love to hear the kids and him laugh when playing together and the kids just love their dad. Brad and I are also enjoying our season tickets watching the Utes play football, though it causes me major anxiety. As for me girls camp kept me on my toes this summer and I had a great week with the girls, but there is no place like home. I am counting down the days till the baby comes and then again I don't really want it to come right away either. This has not been an easy pregnancy for me in many ways and that makes the days long, but I am so excited to meet this little one in three months.

I hope to post more regularly, so please keep checking. I enjoy reading what all of you are up to and think about you lots. Love you all!!

Wow, has it been that long?!

I can and can't believe that it has been four months since I have posted. It's funny because I will get on and read everyone elses' blogs and not do a thing with mine. Anyway, here is an update on what we have been up to.

Well, little miss Addi is now one. She turned one at the end of February and we had fun celebrating that special day. It was an emotional time for me as I had a hard time believing that a year had gone by. She is so much fun and I love having a girl. At her 12 month well child check we had found out that she had lost over a pound and because of that her weight on the growth chart had dropped drastically and there was need to be concerned. They had us 'power pack' her, which means that she had to eat fatty foods. We were giving her half whole milk and the other half half and half, when I cooked I had to use butter instead of margarine, avocados, whole fat yogurt, etc. We took her in for a weight check in April and though she had gained it was not enough and the diet continued until her 15 month well child check and if her weight did not increase she would have to go through testing to find out what was causing the weight loss. Luckily, at her check-up last week her weight was back up and there is no longer a need to be concerned. Other than that she is moving along great and growing as she should. She started walking somewhere in her 13th month and when the binky is not in the mouth she is a jabber box. My favorite is when she is done eating she raises her hands in the air and lowers them as she says "all done", it is the cutest. We love her to death and it is hard to remember what life was like before her.

Jackson is enjoying summer. He had his preschool graduation at the end of May and yes I said preschool graduation. He loved preschool and loved his teacher Mrs. Jensen. It's amazing how much he grew and learned during this year. He is so smart and loves reading. He had swimming lessons in March and April and Brad and I were so excited about his progress. But, now we go to the pool it seems like we are back at square one. I hope to put him in lessons again in the next month or so and see if we can get back what he had gained. He is signed-up to play soccer with the city in August and he is very excited about that. Other than that he is loving being outside, riding his bike, and working outside with dad.

Brad is doing well. He traveled what seemed like a lot in April and May, has been busy working outside and doing projects around the house, busy with work and enjoying the time he gets to be riding his mistress (the Harley). At the beginning of April he traveled with work to Atlanta for an eye doctors conference. He really enjoys traveling with work and the opportunities it provides. Also in April Brad and I had the chance to get away to Jackson Hole, WY and spend four days together without the kids. Brad's parents tended the kids and we stayed in the same room at the same bed and breakfast we stayed at on our honeymoon. It was great to to be together and to focus on us as a couple. Then at the beginning of May he went and visited his sister in Dallas. They went and saw the spot where JFK was killed and he said that was eerie, he was able to experience rain in the midwest, enjoyed good eats, and spending time with Jenni. Unfortunately, he has not been able to ride the Harley as much as he would like due to the weather. He went on a group ride on May 9th with my dad that was an all day event. There were about 140 motorcycles on the ride with a police escort. He said it was a great experience, but a long time on a bike. He hopes to do more. He and his dad recently prepped and poured the cement pad on the side of the house and is currently working on finishing the garage. Project after project. We aren't quite sure that even when your house is finished the projects are ever done.

As for me, I have not been up to much. I feel like I am busy and always have something to do (except lately) and then when I look back at the day it's like what was I busy doing. At the beginning of March I was put in the Young Women as the MiaMaid Advisor and Assistant Girl's Camp director. Those two callings keep me on my toes. I enjoy them and have enjoyed getting to know the girls and the other leaders. I felt like a complete soccer mom for awhile with swim lessons, itty bitty ball, and preschool thank goodness things have eased up a bit. I enjoyed the time in Jackson Hole with Brad it felt like it had been a long time since we had the chance for it to be just us and I loved it!! On May 9th I ran my second race for the cure (5k) and beat my previous time. I ran it somewhere between 35 and 40 minutes. When I crossed that finish line I can not tell you the sense of accomplishment I felt and I love that feeling! We found out back in May that we are expecting our third child. Since then I have been feeling pretty crummy physically, but on the other hand it is a good feeling mentally to know that I am sick because it tells me everything is OK and that the baby is doing good. I am currently ten weeks and can't wait for the first trimester to be over.

I hope to be better about posting more regularly and hope that all is well with everyone. Happy summer!!

Tag, I'm It!!!!

It must be the eight thing.  Thanks for tagging me Melinda!! 

8 TV shows I watch
1.  Grey's Anantomy
2.  The Today Show
3.  The Bachelor  (I'm rooting for Molly)
4.  Baby Story
5.  American Idol
6.  Private Practice
7.  ER
8.  Bringing Home Baby

8 Favorite Resteraunts
1.  Ruby River
2.  Su Casa
3.  Sam Pan 
4.  La Puente
5.  Cheesecake Factory 
6.  Cafe Rio
7.  Costco slice of pizza and a drink. (It's good and cheap!)
8.  Taco Bell

8 Things That Happened To You This Week
1.  I got a really bad sinus infection.
2.  Took Addison to the doctor for what we thought might be chickenpox, but luckily wasn't.
3.  Went to enrichment.
4.  Watched my niece. 
5.  My Love stayed home to help me take care of the kids since we are all sick.
6.  My great visiting teachers brought us dinner, since we are all sick.
7.  Lots of naps and rest.
8.  Read my book.

8 Things I Look Forward To
1.  My families health returning.
2.  Possibly going to St. George next weekend, if the weather is good.
3.  Addison's first birthday, although I'm a little sad at the thought of her already being one. 
4.  Going to Vegas.
5.  Tax Return
6.  Spending warm, summer nights outside with my family.
7.  Race for the Cure
8.  Painting and decorating my home. 

8 Things I Pray For
1.  Brad
2.  My children, even those that have yet to be sent to me.
3.  To help me be a better wife and mother.
4.  Health.
5.  Safety.
6.  Patience. 
7.  To help me spiritually.
8.  To show my gratitude for all that he has blessed me with.

8 People I Tag

1.  Dad

2.  Nichole

3.  Kris

4.  Kimberlee

5.  Sarah

6.  Matthew  

7.  Camie 

8.  Anyone who feels inclined since everyone else I know has already been tagged!

  

Sick of being Sick!!!

I think my title explains my feelings.  Since we have been in our house we have had great winters as far as illnesses are concerned, but I guess someone thought it was our turn.  Around the end of December Brad injured his SI joint and has being going through treatment for it. Unfortunately he has had some side effects from the steroid injections and is now being treated for those.  I caught a cold and have been dealing with it for the last three weeks.  I woke up this morning and it was 100 times worse, so I went into the doctor and have a full blown sinus infection.  Last Friday Jackson woke up and came into our bedroom and said he had a cough and didn't feel good.  I thought he just didn't want to go to preschool and was faking it.  Well, I guess I should have just believed him because the poor kid was sick all day throwing up and just got his appetite back yesterday and now he has a runny nose and a cough.  Then there is little Addi who we thought had chickenpox, but luckily the doctor said no she doesn't and that it is just skin irritation, which isn't surprising because she has the MOST sensitive skin.  I am waiting for all of this to pass and for all of us to regain our strength and health.  I am ready for a day to be out and about, instead of being in the four walls of our home even though I love my home.   

Seven Years

Brad and I celebrated our seventh wedding anniversary on January 23rd. Usually we have Brad's parents take the kids overnight and we take turns every other year planning a romantic night away somewhere. Well, needless to say that didn't happen, yet. Brad has been having back problems since the end of December, which is why we weren't able to keep our tradition this year. Thursday, Brad came home from physical therapy and had a dozen yellow roses for me. I broke down because I was beginning to feel that the following day would go unnoticed and he wasn't about to let that happen. Brad had a cortisone injection on Friday and was pretty much laid up the whole day. We plan to take a night in the near future to celebrate.

Brad - I consider myself the luckiest woman on earth to be married to you. I thank my Heavenly Father endlessly for placing you in my life and giving me the most wonderful eternal companion. You are my life and my world. I love you with every ounce of my being!!! Happy seventh anniversary!!
Love always and forever,
Me

Utah Utes #2

Go Utes!!  They have had a great season and we have enjoyed every minute of it, especially attending church and being in the minority of Utah fans.  Even though they did not get the ranking they deserve, they still have everything to be proud of.  I gained some respect for Kyle Whittingham for voting his team number one in the coaches poll and taking a stand.  I don't understand much about how the BCS works, but I wish they would get rid of it and go to a playoff system like every other college sport and end all this controversary, but oh well.  This season has got Brad and I thinking about season tickets or at least buying tickets to a game or two next year.  We had a blast watching the Sugarbowl and watching them stick it to Alabama.  Until next season........GO UTES!!!!

Moments of 2008

A few years ago we received a Christmas letter with this quote, "Life is not a matter of milestones...but of moments." 2008 was a year of happy moments, sad moments, faithful moments, discouraging moments, thankful moments, lovable moments, and just moments.  I have to say that I am glad to be starting a new year of new moments and leaving 2008 in the past. 

Moments of 2008 - Jackson going to primary - 1800 contacts partnering up with Wal-Mart and Brad being treated as a celebrity at meetings with the two companies - My last day of work - Brad constantly being out of town the last month of my pregnancy - Doctors appointments and non stress tests - Jackson and I getting stuck in the worst snow storm for six hours with me 8 1/2 months pregnant, Jackson eating Fun Dip for dinner and being so thankful for a willing friend to take us in and let us spend the night since we could not get home - Birth of our beautiful baby girl, Addison McKelle - All of us adjusting to our new addition - Death of my grandfather, George Lamar Watson - Spending a day with my brother, Paul, from Iowa - Addison and reflux - Birth of my niece, Brooklyn - Brad's health and pleading to my Heavenly Father for him to be alright  - Being there for Brad's brother, Justin, to open up his mission call to Sidney, Australia (same mission as Brad) - Brad's position at work changing to Industry Compliance - Death of a phenomenal colleague and friend -Birth of my niece, Zoe - Jackson playing Itty Bitty Baseball, Itty Bitty Soccer, and Itty Bitty Football - Going to the temple with Justin and being there with him to take out his endowments - Brad finding a mistress, his Harley and loving every bit of it - The release of Breaking Dawn and me spending the night at a hotel with my sister, Nichole, and a friend to do nothing but read  - A wonderful husband that was willing to take care of the kids so that I could stay at a hotel and do nothing but read - Book club and making great friends - Jackson's birthday party at the Scott family cabin, a yearly tradition - Jackson starting Preschool at Little Scholars Academy - Justin's farewell and going with the family to take him to the MTC - Watching Addison learn how to smile, laugh, roll, sit, crawl, stand and discover her new world - Death of brad's grandmother, Lillian Scott - Holidays - Jackson and his school programs  - Utah beating BYU in football and loving church the following Sunday - Brad and I learning that Addison will be the one to test us - Planning ward activities - Tending my nieces - And too many more to mention. 

We have also spent many moments realizing how blessed we are and how thankful we are to our Heavenly Father for those blessings, moments spent thanking Him for the priesthood and the sacrifices that our Savior made for us.  Moments thanking Him for each other and our families. 

We are looking forward to a new year and new adventures.  We like many have made new year resolutions and hope that they stick for the year to come.