My Cowboy and Me

Popcorn

2012-02-10T00:00:00.000-05:00

When Bron is gone overnight, my days can feel very long. So Jed and I have created a little wintertime tradition: afternoon popcorn and (part of) a movie. We only watch part of a movie because Jed's attention span is only about an hour long. Or sometimes we just watch a Western and I fast forward to all the animal parts, namely cows and horses. Jed "moos" and "naahs" at the screen all hour long. It's a fun hour!

Elizabeth

2012-02-08T23:59:00.000-05:00

There must be something in the water. It seems like EVERYBODY is having a baby this year. And the current trend is girls. Maybe I'm in luck? We shall see.

My friend Alesha was kind enough to let me take pictures of her newborn in my mock studio/living room. Elizabeth is a gorgeous baby. It was therapeutic just to hold her. Only drawback to her perfectness is that she preferred to be awake all afternoon. It's hard to get a little ball of heaven to stay curled when she's awake. Oh well; I still managed to get a handful of pictures I really like. Also, having her family over for pizza and fun conversation that evening was a plus.

Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present Elizabeth.

My personal favorite. Take my breathe away.

She looks happy to have her picture taken!

I was going for a soft and dreamy look here.

Time. Stand. Still.

I couldn't get over this particular edit on Beth. Be still my soul.

Big yawn!

The more I practice this photography thing, the more I realize how little I know! And the more I realize what a money pit photography is. I don't have any bows or headbands. (We made this little bow from ribbon in my scrapbooking supplies.) I don't have any pink or girly blankets. I definitely need more props and backdrops of all sorts. But I am learning to be creative. And I am learning what works and what looks good in a photograph. Slowly, I'm inching along. Maybe someday I'll feel confident enough to charge money to support this hobby of mine.

Beginnings of Decor: Jessie Style

2012-02-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

Three months ago we moved into our very first home. And three months later, we are officially moved in! Hooray! The painting is done. The doors and hardware are in their proper places. Every box has been emptied and thrown away. Any extras have been carefully stowed away in the attic and we can now park both cars in the garage with space to spare. It's fabulous. This place feels more like home all the time. We still have a long list of things we'd like to purchase and do: door mats, new bath towels, a piano, a big family picture, old window panes to hang on the wall, blinds for some of the windows, etc. It's an on going process, but that's half the fun. If my home was done all at once, what purpose would I have in browsing magazines and pinterest and getting excited?! It still blows my mind sometimes that this is our HOUSE. We LIVE here now and it's beautiful. Plus, we're not going anywhere for a long time. It's a wonderful feeling.

While Bron was in Montana in January, I did a little early birthday shopping with Momma Nelson for three days. We had fun hitting almost every store in town and eating out almost every meal! She said it felt like winter break! Plus, Jed and I got to see Kaleb wrestle. He won both matches, one match by like fifteen points! I may be exaggerating a bit, but it doesn't matter. I'll make a crazy cheerleader of a mother one day.

So now that we're officially unpacked and I've done some shopping, let me show you around our home! It's the beginning of a vintage/cowboy country/slightly contemporary mesh of furniture and decor. I hope it blends well.

1. The fireplace. I really love having a focal point in the room to put my picture of the temple. Please direct me to any awesome mantle ideas out there. I NEED ideas.

2. Decorating the empty spaces above my kitchen cabinets. I begged for that cow sign at the county fair. And I found the weather vane last month at Real Deals in Rexburg. Sooo cute. The tins came from Momma Nelson for FREE. They belonged to Bron's grandma. I'm in love with the colors.

3. More shelf space. I have three of these babies to fill. But they are filling up faster than I anticipated. There just may be an end to the madness in sight. (Yeah, right.) There are a pair of antique maple jars from Miner Farm in New York. We found the old lunch pail and blue jar at an estate sale last summer. The luggage once belonged to Bron's grandparents. And the 'ol milk can has been retired from the Nelson Dairy because of a leak.

4. I've decided to overhaul the kids' bathroom in a 1950's beach theme. I found this wall hanging at the local consignment shop. Hopefully I can find some little surfboards for the walls on our trip to California this summer.

5. Our living room. You are looking at the most comfortable couch in the world! Upon moving in, we painted the shelf background the same blue as our den/tv room. Then Bron put up new hardware, painted the shelves black, and distressed them. Voila! A whole new look! It now flaunts a lot of Bron's souvenirs from Russia.

The shelf space on top is a work in progress. But can you see the potential? Can you? I'm so excited. I have so many ideas for those shelves. I found the vintage milk carrier and milk jars at a local antique shop. I wasn't going to leave without them!

6. My kitchen. Decor = Work in progress with lots of fun potential. Double ovens + pantry = Heaven.

7. View of the living room from the kitchen. Jed is running laps around the couch. Don't you just love the darker trim? We do!
(Note: My living room is usually cluttered with toys, but we were expecting company. Great time for pictures, no?)

And of course this home wouldn't be complete without my two boys. They're the best part!

Next up: The kids' bedrooms followed by flowers in the courtyards!

Master of Science

2012-02-06T23:30:00.000-05:00

Bron is officially a graduate from the University of Vermont!

Bron's diploma finally arrived! Just look at that fancy piece of paper. It is the official end of Bron's Master's Degree. And it is frame worthy. I am so proud. Bron has made some very notable accomplishments this year. I hope he feels proud of himself too! Few people know of the pain, sacrifice, and misery it is to earn a Master's Degree like his. And I am more than happy ~~to say~~ to shout if from the rooftops that MY HUSBAND DID IT!

Also, that there laying at the foot of his diploma is Bron's thesis that arrived just before Christmas. It's over 300 pages long; every word and every indecipherable graph written by Bron himself.

Warning: Reading it is like the breath of death. It's very boring unless you like technical words, making sense of minute differences in data, and remembering multiple acronyms.

Hooray! Another Baby!

2012-02-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

So now you know why I've been a little MIA lately: I've been busy growing a tiny baby! It's unreal how much energy something the size of a pea requires. It finally hit me this week though, like a ton of bricks, I AM GOING TO HAVE A BABY!!! We couldn't be more thrilled. Round two of parenthood coming right up!

The rational part of my brain is asking why in the world I want to do this all over again: The pregnancy aches and pains, the soreness after labor, breasts that feel like boulders, complete and utter exhaustion for weeks on end, cranky teething baby... And then I smile because I know it is all completely worth it. All I have to do is look at Jed and my heart brims over with love and joy. This brand new tiny human being is going to multiply that love. I can't wait to meet this baby, to welcome a unique personality into our home, to experience more laughter and more joy and double the sunshine.

I wouldn't trade being a mother for anything. I feel like I've morphed into an entirely new kind of person since Jed's birth. I've had to become less selfish, more able to multitask, and a myriad of other things. But with each passing week, I feel these new traits becoming a more integral part of who I am. There's room for improvement, but I like what I see. I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity to raise children of my own. This body of mine is miraculous.

*****

Now who wants to hear about the wonderful (not) realities of the first trimester? Please, read on! I am ready to complain.

I've been much more sick during this pregnancy than I was with Jed. Perhaps it's because I had just started an intense brand new job and didn't have time to think about being nauseous with Jed, but a part of me knows that that is not entirely true. I know that many woman are much worse off than I am, but with that said, there were times during this pregnancy when I looked at Bron and told him I didn't know how many more times I could voluntarily do this.

It all started with a bout of depression. I was exhausted and moody and honestly didn't want to be a mother anymore. It was strange. Thankfully, those feelings didn't last long. Instead, they turned into typical pregnancy symptoms consisting of miserable nauseousness. Having the flu for a couple of days is one thing, but feeling tired, puny, and nauseous (coupled with throwing up) for nearly three months straight is completely another. Add a toddler and you've got a riot brewing.

More than once I found myself leaning over the toilet bowl with one hand holding back my hair and the other holding Jed back. He wasn't scared, he was curious! The last thing I wanted was for him to swirl his hand around in the toilet. Gross.

Which reminds me of my first visit to the doctor's office. Every pregnant woman knows that she must pee in a cup at every office visit. This was no exception. Armed with just a giant popsicle stick for a play toy, I took Jed into the bathroom with me. Before I could turn around, Jed had dipped his stick into the toilet and licked it! "Aaaah!" my brain freaked out. Then I rationalized that this toilet was probably cleaned every day. It couldn't be that bad, could it? I determined Jed would survive. Well, I did as was directed and proceeded to pull my pants back on when Jed dipped his stick into the toilet again... but this time there was pee! He opened his mouth. The stick was half way to it. I yanked it out of his hand and threw it away just in the nick of time. Whew. "Next visit," I thought, "I am soo getting a babysitter."

Anyhow, days turned into weeks and weeks became months. I became a little depressed and even a little frustrated with myself for feeling sick for so long! "Suck it up," I'd tell myself. "Get it done." Well, the dishes and laundry got done and I sat on the floor to play cars with my little boy, but I just didn't feel any motivation to do anything extra. I didn't make any New Year's resolutions. I didn't clean or organize or tackle any projects. I didn't even keep track of what was in the bank account. I was a minimalist. And it was killing me. Poor Bron. All I could do was keep giving him hugs and tell him how sorry I was. He, of course, has been a good supportive husband. Somehow, I think he understands just a little bit.

So I have survived the last few months on naps, soda, cereal, and anything meatless. Poor Bron ate lots of pancakes and waffles for dinner. Now that I am entering the second trimester, however, the nausea is gradually letting up. My body seems to know when it's noon and six, but with some prompt food, I am doing all right. I feel more energetic. I feel happier. And the reality of this baby is becoming more real.

Like I said, I'm getting excited after all! I can't wait for this baby to rock our world!!!

Oh, Baby!

2012-02-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I'd like to say a little something about love that I've experienced first hand.

Nelson Baby #2 arriving the first week of August
Yippee! I am already getting so excited for this baby!

Jed's Pregnancy Announcement // Jed's Birth Story

2-7

2012-02-01T16:13:00.003-05:00

Happy 27th Birthday to Meee!

Yes, folks, I turned the big 2-7 yesterday. Nothing exciting. It just sounds one year closer to being... older. I sure enjoy being a twenty-something. I'm still young, energetic, a bit naive, and have my whole life ahead of me to live out more of my dreams. So far, I feel pretty good about what I've done and accomplished thus far. Twenty-seven years have treated me fairly well. I just hope the next 27 are fair and well too. So here's to a happy year!

Thanks to all who made my birthday a special one. My phone rang off the hook all day with texts and personal calls. They all put a smile on my face. It feels so good to be remembered and loved. Bron took me out to lunch and Jed slumbered peacefully in the afternoon. Then we enjoyed the fifty degree weather and went on a family bike ride! Ugh. I need to get into a workout routine again. My legs were really feeling it on those uphills! But the sun was shining and the views of wide open fields were beautiful. Then we grabbed dinner and I headed out to symphony practice. When I came home, Bron was in the kitchen making me my raspberry cheesecake. I also found a basket of purple lilies waiting for me too. I love lilies. I love raspberries. And I love my man in the kitchen. It was a great day.

P.S. Yesterday, I couldn't help but remember other birthdays past. Remembering the fun, the winter blizzards, friends, good food, and what Bron has done for me... I smiled a lot.

Victoria

2012-01-29T22:30:00.000-05:00

No, I am not dead nor did I fall off the face of the planet. I've just been busy. I expected life to slow down after Christmas, but so far, it hasn't happened. But that's good for me during these long winter months. Life has been treating me well.

One of this month's activities was practicing my photography skills on my newest niece. Photography is a fun but challenging hobby for me, especially with such a tiny person involved. I came home and thought, "I should've done that differently," and "I wish I'd noticed that," and "How do I...?" Sometimes I wish I could just follow a professional around and learn a heap of new knowledge that way. It'd be so much easier! But I digress. Victoria is DeAnn's first GIRL. She's a big deal following SIX BOYS. We had so much fun dressing her up and changing her hair bows about a million times. So without further adieu, may I present beautiful Victoria, just eight days old.

Babies just look good in black and white, or a little pink too when said babe is a girl.

My favorite. Love the pink, her hair, and her precious pouty lips!

This was a fun fail/success! Oh, Anne Geddes...

Bundled January baby.

Last but not least, tiny toes!

This Week's Highlights

2012-01-15T21:48:00.002-05:00

Helping Mom take out the trash. It's fun!

Now if only I can get Jed to give me this same look about chores when he is fifteen!

Bron insisted that I join the local symphony again this semester. I'm so glad he did. It felt great to get out of the house and make some music.

Talking all things baby with other women at a baby shower for a friend. Pink everywhere!

Eating chocolate chip waffles with fruit and vanilla ice cream... for breakfast AND dinner! Yum!

I yelled and threatened to put Jed in daycare. Working full time was going to be easier than listening to him whine. all. day. long. How is it that I want to pull my hair out some moments and others my heart is overflowing with so much love and joy I feel it might burst? I guess it's called motherhood.

Driving all the way to Boise to get my hair done. Yes, I did. Jed got to play with his grandma while I got prettied up. Sooo worth it.

Jed partied hardy at a two year old's birthday party. He stayed out till 9:30PM. Partay. Animal.

We have a new niece! Victoria was born Thursday evening. Congratulations Tyrel and DeAnn!

A productive Saturday. It felt so good! Bron showed Jed how to burn some old tree branches in our fire pit outside. Pyros. He also finished painting the last three doors for the inside of our house! Wahoo! As for me, I cleaned the entire house, FINALLY packed up Christmas, and put up some more decor. This house feels more like home all the time.

An evening party with some friends. We enjoyed salisbury steaks and potatoes for dinner accompanied by lots of talk and laughter. When Jed was put to bed, we ate chocolate melting cakes a la mode for dessert. Heaven in our mouths. Then the house shook (thanks to that awesome sub woofer) as we watched Thor. "This mortal form grows weak. I need sustenance!"

We had a good week. I think it was just the "winter blues" talking in that last post.

I Need Dorothy's Red Slippers

2012-01-11T16:33:00.000-05:00

Last July, Jed enjoyed a delightful evening with Anna. Bron was out of town and I had to feed calves. But Jed didn't mind. He loooved Anna. And she was so good to Jed. That night, they played on Miner Farm's trucks and tractors. Lucky boy.

We moved from New York to Idaho six months ago. I'll admit, I still miss New York sometimes. I miss the farm. I miss the trees and greenery. I miss the lake. I miss hopping over the border for a day visit to Montreal. I miss being on our own and exploring new places. But mostly, it's a few special people I still miss the most! Perhaps I'll always miss them.

I've moved nearly a dozen times in my lifetime. You'd think I'd be used to it by now. And I guess I am. I know what to expect. I know that it takes about a year to completely feel at home in a new place. It takes that long to know the ins and outs of a new town and the area's politics. It takes about a year to make worthwhile friends--the kind that can tease you but also understand who you are.

It takes a long time to finally feel a part of a new place, to feel needed in the community somehow.

I'm still struggling, I guess. I had just enough time in our apartment to start getting to know a few folks. Then we moved into our new house and winter hit. Winter is cold and boring; everybody goes into hibernation for a few months, including me. So it's been a quiet few months. There are some other young mothers in the neighborhood. I just need an excuse to get to know them, and sometimes that's hard and scary. I also sat among some friendly faces at church. We talk a little on Sundays, but that's it. I'm just waiting for things to pick up speed. You can't force friendships. They occur naturally, but they always seem to have a common pattern and it takes time. They often start with a friendly smile, then a few words, perhaps an invitation to do something together, and then it's repeated until that acquaintance blooms into friendship.

Waiting is tough sometimes.

I try to focus on the positives of our new surroundings. I may miss the green of New York, but I love the openness and incessant sunshine of the Idaho desert. I love how the roads are laid out in a grid; I never get lost even when I miss a turn. I love living in a HOUSE where the living room is filled with sunshine every afternoon. I love A LOT of things.

I'm happy to be within a few hours' drive of family again. I think it makes this whole move worthwhile. Bron loves his new job, most of the time. I know we are meant to be here. Too many things just fell into place for me to believe anything otherwise. We are blessed beyond measure!

But again, I am still waiting for a true love of this place to grow within me. I know it will come. It just takes time. One day I will look out my window and FEEL that this is home.

I hope that day comes soon... because right now I feel empty.

Tech Savvy at Age One

2012-01-06T12:00:00.000-05:00

Watching Looney Toons on Dad's iphone.

This little gadget has saved us many headaches on "long" trips in the car to see family these last weeks. Whew! Jed loves himself a button to push, annny button.

21

2012-01-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

The Old 300

10 Days of Christmas

2012-01-03T18:05:00.001-05:00

Christmas came and went and we just kept celebrating! I guess that is the advantage of living so close to family again. We are so spoiled.

Our little family of three spent Christmas weekend at my mom's home in Meridian, Idaho with my two little brothers. My sister and her family traveled 20 hours from Arizona to be with us. It felt so good to see her again! I just hope the trip was totally worth the effort for them. I love you, Lauren!!! Even though I pretend to be the "all knowing" and ever helpful "big" sister (it's a hard habit to break), we're really pretty much at the same stage in our lives. It's a lot of fun! I got to meet Carter for the very first time. His pictures don't do him justice. He is an exceptionally good looking baby boy considering his copious amounts of rolls, dark hair, long dark lashes, and beautiful blue eyes.

CHRISTMAS EVE!

Carter Wade Thompson

Just shy of 6 months old

I want to EAT those cheeks!

We had our Christmas feast on Christmas Eve.

Ryan (7) watched Bron carve the turkey.

Jed ready for a prayer. He was anxious to eat!

Then we had our annual re-enactment of the Nativity, which I'll admit, sometimes gets a bit irreverent. Each year, however, the costumes are worth a good laugh!

Ryan as the hairy inn keeper.

Mary, Baby Jesus, and Joseph (who looks more like a potential terrorist.) Don't wear a turban to airport, okay Don?

Carter in the manger.

CHRISTMAS DAY!

Santa brought Jed some John Deere trucks!

And I made the three of us matching jammies. Yes, I had on blue doggie pants and a black sweatshirt too! I think it's going to become a Nelson Christmas tradition at our house.

Jed licking his fingers and eating candy for breakfast. Mmmm!

My mom, Lauren, and I played a violin trio in church. I love playing Christmas music with my family. It brings back so many memories. I'm glad we got to do it once again because it means a lot. It was wonderful to remember Christ, the real meaning of Christmas, on Christmas Day. After church, we gathered around the tree to open more presents!

Jed received a giant Tonka truck from Grandma and Grandpa Kelley!

Can't you just see the admiration and joy on that boy's face? Priceless.

Michael's strange face. Lauren and Carter.

I have to toot Bron's horn for a minute. He went shopping for shoes for me! My old black Sunday dress shoes were worn out. I told Bron all I wanted for Christmas was a new pair. "Just pick something sexy that you'd like to see me wear," I told him. And boy did Bron come through... with TWO pairs of trendy black heels! They're going to be sooo much fun to wear!

OUR WEEK:

Jed and I accompanied Bron on a business trip down to Utah. We used the trip as an excuse to visit my grandparents--Jed's GREAT-Grandparents. I'm glad we went. I know Grandma and Grandpa Smith enjoy seeing their littlest grandchildren and I loved seeing them interact. I could hear Grandma playing with Jed while I showered and dressed for the day. When Grandma finally left to do her hair, Jed went around the house looking for her. "Gama! Gama!" It doesn't get more precious than that. Grandma and Grandpa spoiled us by taking us out to dinner on Thursday night--followed by a shopping trip with my Aunt and cousins--and to lunch at Tucano's the next day. My grandparents are genuinely good people. I only hope to emulate a bit of them someday.

BRINGING IN THE NEW YEAR!

We spent New Year's weekend at the Nelson Dairy in Ririe, Idaho with all of Bron's brothers and their families. It was a crazy, noisy, chaotic, house full of people! But that's what always makes it a ton of fun too.

Jed is totally a mini farmer in training. He loves being outside with the cows.

We exchanged presents...

Leah, Queen of the box!

Look at all those kids swarming!

Momma Nelson apparently got just what she was wishing for!

We ate enormous amounts of rich foods prepared by Merri Sue herself and played lots and lots of boardgames. In other words, we perfected the art of relaxation.

We all played a couple rounds of BINGO and won silly prizes like candy!

I didn't bother staying up to welcome in the New Year. Something about having a one year old who gets up early in the morning kind of remedied that. But Happy 2012 anyway! I have a good feeling about this year.

Thanks to everyone who made Christmas 2011 a memorable one! We feel so lucky to be surrounded by so many people we love.

Bathtime Fun

2011-12-23T14:00:00.000-05:00

More reasons to love this little boy of mine...

Drinking from the bathtub faucet

Brushing his teeth all by himself (with somebody else's toothbrush, of course).

Jed, you make me laugh. I love you!

Happy Birthday!

2011-12-21T21:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, the man who makes my world spin had a birthday! He is 28 years old. Bron doesn't put much stock into birthdays. To him, it's just another day on the planet; nothing special. Well, Bron is definitely special to Jed and me! (I also know for a fact that he's liked by a bunch of people called family and friends too.) Bron is the best husband and father anyone could ever ask for. We are lucky people to have him in our lives. So I know he secretly appreciated the birthday sign and balloons we put up in honor of him.

We celebrated Bron's birthday very simply. We had homemade sushi followed by the opening of one present from under the tree. Then after putting Jed to bed, we did one of our most favorite things: cuddle on the couch and talk the evening away.

Bron had a busy year! A year ago, our lives were totally different. We were living in upstate New York and Bron was feeling a little overwhelmed in the midst of earning his Master's Degree. He honestly didn't know where he would be or what he would be doing six months from then. Our lives were open to endless possibilities!

Let's recap the year:

Bron began the year by passing both his comprehensive and written exams (hooray!) and then slaving away writing his thesis. In July, he presented his research at a worldwide dairy science conference in New Orleans--where he was also nearly eaten by a giant alligator on a swamp tour! Bron’s hard work paid off and he graduated with a Master’s Degree in Dairy Nutrition from the University of Vermont and Miner Institute. Shortly before graduating, Bron was offered his dream job as a Dairy Consultant in Idaho for a feed company known as J.D. Heiskell. He has hit the ground running for this new company and really enjoys working with farmers and their livestock from Utah all the way to Montana. I am so proud of him!

In late July, we (read: Bron) packed up all of our belongings and moved across the country. Jed and I played at a family reunion in Zion’s National Park while Bron and his brother made the cross country trek in a gutless truck… that broke down in the middle of nowhere Kansas. What an adventure! I'm glad I wasn't there.

Bron and I celebrated his big accomplishments by spending five heavenly days in paradise: Hawaii. We had the time of our lives—just the two of us—exploring, swimming, eating, and relaxing with no stress and self-imposed deadlines (aka, the thesis) to meet.

Shortly before Halloween, we closed on our very first home in Kimberly, Idaho. We've already experienced a few mishaps in home ownership, but we are thrilled!

And life isn't showing any signs of slowing down for a while either...

Happy Birthday, Bron!!! You deserve more than I can give you. I hope this year is just as adventurous as the last.

Jed "learning" how to make some sushi rolls from Dad.

Six December Happenings

2011-12-16T18:47:00.002-05:00

Look at those lashes! Grown women would die for those!

My baby boy is sick today. I hate how babies startle and spasm when they have a fever. Poor kid. We've spent most of the day on the couch reading stories, watching videos, and napping. I love holding my baby close. I love staring at his sleeping face. Jed has the looongest lashes.
Earlier this week Bron got up with Jed. He changed him, dressed him, and brought Jed to see me in bed with his favorite book. It felt so good to snuggle with my little boy, propped up against the pillows first thing in the morning. It made my whole day!
A couple Saturdays ago, Bron and I went to work pruning and clearing out the yard--the entire acre of it. It took ALL day! When we came in that evening, I was feeling chilled. I drew myself a big bubble bath and prepared to soak when Jed wanted to join me; I let him. Soon the timer on the pizza in the kitchen went off. Before I knew it, Bron came into the bathroom with the pizza on a cutting board and glasses of root beer. Yes, Jed and I ate pizza while soaking in a bubble bath! It was awesome! And I'll admit, a little weird. I hope we're not the only family around that does sporadic things. At least dinner was an easy clean up on Jed!
Our new home runs on propane: the water heater, the stove (I cook with fire!), and most importantly, the heat. Well, we're brand new home owners and had no idea how long our tank of propane would last. Bron checked it one cold night and came in with some bad news: we were at 10%. The propane truck wouldn't be coming around for another three days! So we turned the heat down, bundled up, and waited. I've never been so grateful for heat! The propane truck will be making a regular stop at our house from now on!
Have I ever mentioned that the fan in our red impala only works about half the time? There's AC and there's heat, but the fan only works when it feels like it. Then, a week or so ago, the headlights went out in the car too. We haven't quite figured out why. So I now have a car that I can only drive between the hours of 8AM and 4PM. Oh well. It's not that big a deal to a woman who only leaves home occasionally to go to the grocery store or the post office. Maybe we can get a Christmas miracle for that? Ha!
It just worked out that this month, the month of December, we're making two mortgage payments plus a rental payment on the apartment we moved out of (we signed a six month lease). Merry Christmas to us! I got a house! It was going to be tight. Neither Bron or I were too worried though. If we could live in New York on a shoe string budget, then we could get through the next month or so. Then, to our surprise, Bron got a raise! (That's my incredible hard working husband!) And as a Holiday gift, the company also pays for taxes and other expenses like health insurance that are taken out of his paycheck this month. Whoa. What sweet surprises (blessings)!

Snuggling with my sleeping boy.

The Heiskell Christmas Party

2011-12-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

Saturday was the night of Bron's Holiday work party. And boy, was it a PARTY! We dropped Jed off with an overnight babysitter (Thank you sooo much Adam and Alesha!) and headed an hour south to Jackpot, Nevada.

We checked into our room at the hotel and began our evening with some delicious appetizers. I was a little nervous to meet Bron's boss and co-workers for the first time, but there was no need for that because everyone was nice and friendly and the conversations just started to roll. I think I ate more dessert than dinner--there were just so many decadent chocolate goodies to choose from! Then once the dinner plates were cleared, the real party began.

We all donned hats and boas and climbed into a photo booth for some goofy pictures. The DJ kicked up the music and we danced the night away. Bron and I have so much fun dancing together! Plus, Bron is pretty talented at it. I love that man.

Then, when our ears began ringing, Bron and I went downstairs to the casino where his co-worker, Butch, taught us how to play the game of craps. Butch even encouraged me to bet a few of his chips. I was on a roll, doubling and tripling the chips, until it was my turn to roll the dice and I lost everything on the table--a whopping six bucks! It was fun! Luckily, Butch still walked out of there five dollars richer than when he began. It makes me feel less guilt.

It was a very fun, even much-needed, night out together (because truthfully, a girl can go stir-crazy all week at home. And as much as I love my little boy, it's nice to have a little break; it makes me miss him.) Even more selfishly, it felt amazing to sleep in and enjoy a slow morning with my husband.

Thanks for a great weekend, Mr. Handsome! I love going out with you. We are so incredibly blessed to have found this job. I am happy you work with so many great "real" people and that the company is growing and treats its employees so well. Thank you for working so hard for us! This new reality of ours sometimes seems surreal.

20

2011-12-11T16:00:00.000-05:00

December Sunset

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2011-12-09T00:39:00.001-05:00

Christmas tree and lights {check}

Snowman full of chocolate candy {check}

Christmas music playing perpetually {check}

Presents wrapped (with big curly bows!) and waiting under the tree {check}

Snow {check}

Hot chocolate with marshmallows {check}

Cuddling under blankets {check}
Cards in the mail from friends and family {check}

Homemade cookies {check}

Jed loves to help me bake. He insisted on wearing an apron (just like Mom) and couldn't wait to get his hands and mouth on the dough. That's my boy!

Excitement for Christmas bubbling over! {check}

36 Hour Concertmaster

2011-12-05T14:00:00.001-05:00

Last week I flipped my calendar over to December. I felt a pang of guilt as I read,

Thursday December 1st: Dress Rehearsal 7:30PM
Friday December 2nd: Symphony Concert 7:30PM.

You see, I began practicing with the small local symphony this fall and even made it through our first performance, but then we bought our house, we moved, we painted, we spent time with family, and life just happened. Before I knew it, I'd missed at least four rehearsals. I thought for sure they wouldn't want me waltzing in like that. I decided to just wait until January to begin fresh again. I was definitely going to have to miss my favorite concert of the year: the Christmas Concert.

Well, Thursday morning I got a phone call from the concertmaster. She had an unfortunate family emergency to attend to and wouldn't be able to play in the Christmas concert. She knew I had some experience "leading" an orchestra and asked if I'd fill in for her. The concert was the very next night!

"Uh, sure." I replied. "It shouldn't be a problem. I'll just practice lots between now and the concert."

What was I thinking? I had less than two days to learn music the symphony (and choir) had been practicing for weeks! On top of that, I was supposed to act as the leader. That means I had to get it right: the notes, the rhythms, and precisely when to come in. That's a lot of pressure.

Crazy thing is, I thrive under pressure. I love it. I love to play my violin. And I love to perform. The challenge is a thrill to me. It's my niche. Making music makes me feel alive. And happy. It's salve to my soul. (Remember West Side Story?)

I turned on a show for Jed so that I could practice for a half hour without interruption.

This is what I found when I checked in on him. Jed was snoring!

I consider myself a talented violinist, but not exceptionally so. There are hundreds of other talented musicians out there, many of whom I competed with in college. That thought makes me wonder where my fellow orch-dorks are today. Where did they move to? It would be so much fun to play with them again. Aren't there other talented violinists in the valley that could act as concertmaster? I can't be one of just a few. Who are they? I wish I knew.

On Friday evening I dressed up in my fancy black and headed out the door. I got a few miles from home when the headlights in my car suddenly went out. It was pitch black dark out on those country roads! What was I going to do? I returned home and sped off in Bron's big truck instead. I roared down the road at 70mph. I was going to be late! I was stressed and on the edge of freaking out.

I came clicking in as fast as I could in heels and made it just five minutes before the concert was to begin. "Don't worry," they said. "We wouldn't start without you." Despite their reassurances, I was feeling anything but calm and put-together!

Well, needless to say, the show went on and it was a lot of fun. It put me in the Christmas spirit! As for how I personally performed though, I did okay. I'm actually a little disappointed in myself. I made more mistakes than I would've liked. But I guess I ought to give myself a break--I did learn five pieces in about 36 hours.

Whew!

Just Jed

2011-12-01T17:11:00.001-05:00

chasing the dog.

Got her! And feeling pure joy.

P.S. This is the farm dog, not ours.

Family Pictures

2011-11-30T16:57:00.001-05:00

{The Nelson Family}
Yup, there's a lot of us! And this family is still growing!

{The Grandkids}

Top: Jaden, Wesley, Micah, Tannon
Bottom: Jedediah, Leah, Brogan, Garrison

{Flint and Merri Sue}

Kaleb, Mom, Call, Dad, Garret

{Tyrel and DeAnn}

Brogan, Tyrel, DeAnn, Tannon, Jaden, Wesley, Micah, Garrison

{Talon and Amber}

Talon, Leah, Amber

{Bron and Jessie}

Jessie, Jed, Bron

Can you tell I'm a little biased over my own two boys? Yes, there are four pictures of our little family!

Group shots are so hard to get right, especially considering it was cold and there were lots of babies and we took them during an awkward time of day; there are shadows everywhere! But all things considered, I think they turned out okay. They will serve their purpose to fill frames with faces of loved ones--together. It was a photography learning experience to say the least. I have a lot to read up on!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-29T15:17:00.001-05:00

We look forward to the Holiday Season all year long. We look forward to spending time with family. We look forward to rich foods and fun traditions. Holidays with family are often loud and busy and we sacrifice a few hours of sleep because, well, it's the Holidays and the memories are worth it. Holidays and family, food and traditions (coupled with a little chaos) just go together like the stripes on a candy cane. A candy cane wouldn't be a candy cane without its stripes, and neither would an end of year holiday be totally complete without family, food, and tradition.

And even though we've been looking forward to Thanksgiving for weeks, isn't it funny how when the weekend is done and over we can't wait to sleep in our own beds in the quiet familiarity of our own home? Isn't it funny how we crave our mundane routine again? In a few weeks, however, we'll be ready to do it all over again because well, it's the Holidays. Those memories I made as a child with my aunts and uncles and cousins? They still bring a smile to my eyes and warmth to my heart. And so indeed, the tradition must go on!

These are this year's memoirs:

We had our first real house guests last week. Bron's brother, Tyrel, and his family stayed a night in our new home. I was a nervous wreck. My brand new home was invaded by six boys under the age of seven! I just wasn't quite equipped to handle the brood! But we got them calmed down with an episode of Elmo. Just what is it about Elmo that kids love so much?

Micah, Wesley, Garrison, Jed, and Jaden

Our little family of three spent Thanksgiving at the Nelson home in Ririe, Idaho. It was a delicious meal! Later that evening, we all headed to Rexburg to enjoy dessert with Bron's aunts, uncles, and cousins. We ate pie, pie, and more pie! The older cousins played with the babies while the adults talked and laughed and talked some more. It was so good to see everyone!

Ridge is Jed's new favorite person. Leah loved being the center of attention. NaKya loved Leah.

I loved that delicious pie. And Talon loves his wife.

The next morning we women went SHOPPING!!! We didn't leave the house until 7:00AM and were still able to purchase everything on our list... plus some! Amber and Merri Sue bought some adorable pairs of boots for themselves and I bought myself a cute pea coat for 1/3 the normal price! (Aren't we a horrible influence on each other?) Then we went out to lunch. Yeah, shopping with the girls pretty much took the cake this weekend.

Later Friday afternoon, we met up with the extended family for a traditional annual game of bowling! It was a riot with everyone there. Then we Nelson "kids" ate dinner at Fong's.

Even Jed got into it. It was his first experience bowling!

Yum! Yum! Fooood!!! The boys cleaned their plates.

Brothers Garret, Call, and Kaleb

A New Game:

"Jed, where is your nose?"

"Where are your ears?"

"Where is your TONGUE?"

Saturday we took family pictures and finished the day off with a baby shower for DeAnn. She has six boys and is finally expecting a girl! Amber and I couldn't resist the opportunity to celebrate with DeAnn. All of the female members of Bron's extended family showed up. It was a noisy and crazy party! We laughed A. LOT. Better yet, I don't think DeAnn ever quit smiling.

Really, I promise, it was a more civilized party than it looks! Haha!

Finally, last but certainly not least, we wrapped the weekend up by hearing {Elder} Garret Nelson give a talk in church. Then the entire family came back to Momma Nelson's house for lunch and to gab, gab, gab some more. I guess we didn't get enough socializing in all weekend! I honestly don't know how that woman does it; Merri Sue hosts and entertains so well. I am in awe.

Three words to sum up our Thanksgiving weekend: Busy and Fun!

P.S.

Grandma Nelson had a Christmas surprise for all her grandchildren one night too: Christmas Pajamas!!! They were super cute by themselves, but even more adorable when all the grandchildren were together! I can't wait until Christmas!

Thanksgiving Thankfulness

2011-11-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is here! I am glad this day rolls around every year to remind me to count my blessings. I am a lucky girl who leads a life rich and abundant in good things. Bron likes to remind me of just how spoiled I am. However, there is a part of me that is scared to count my blessings because those things can change so fast! Even so, when things get tiresome, problematic, and even a little dicey, I know I have a Heavenly Father who loves me (and you too) very much.

Some things {BIG and small} I am thankful for:

An attractive, hard-working husband who loves me unconditionally. I am grateful for little moments of affection and tenderness between us. I love it when he wraps his arms around me or whispers sweet little things in my ear. I never doubt he loves me.

A busy and happy little boy.

Warm meals, warm socks, warm coats and warm blankets.

Colorful leaves and pumpkins.

Pie for dessert.
(Okay, food in general.)

My health and the health of my family.

True friends.

{these gals and these guys and many more}

Family.

{these folks and these folks and these folks}

Bron's job.

Snowflakes.

Joy and peace in my life.

Late night talks with my hubby.

The temple.

Running and exercising.

{Cute} shoes and dresses to go with them.

A camera, computer, and the internet.

The way Jed smiles and laughs.

To be at home and witness my baby grow.

Cuddling.

Sunshine.

Swimming at the beach on a hot summer day.

Strawberries.

Beautiful pictures.

Talents.

Hot showers.

Marrying a man who is my best friend and makes me laugh.

Travel and vacation adventures.

Eating out.
(Is there a food theme going on?)

A beautiful home to live in complete with everything a woman, wife, and mother could possibly need. That gas stove rocks. So does our new den.

Cell phones and texting and keeping in touch.

Always having milk in Jed's sippy and the way he guzzles it.

Living closer to family.

Bubble baths.

Music.

Playing my violin.

A good book.

Always having enough + some.

I have plenty of reasons to be happy! And I am. very. happy. Happy Thanksgiving!!!

18 Months

2011-11-21T00:00:00.000-05:00

A real smile.

I love having a one year old! Or more accurately, a one and a half year old! Jed is 18 months and so much fun! I just can't help gushing about him and all of his precious adorableness. Jed has officially graduated from babyhood into toddlerhood. He cracks me up and keeps me on my toes with his copious amount of energy. I am loving every age and stage of Jed's little life. The months fly by way too fast. The little things Jed does don't seem to last for long. He is learning and growing every day.

Jed is growing so tall and his hands and feet are noticeably bigger. He is getting heavy! I can't heft him around on my hip for very long anymore. Instead, Jed holds my hand and trots along beside me in short little steps. The good news is that I can still wrap him up in a towel after his bath and carry him to the sink to brush his teeth. I love how his toes just barely stick out from underneath the towel. It reminds me that he is still so little!

I often underestimate just how intelligent my little boy is. Jed gibber gabbers all day long, but he understands a lot of what we say. He can even understand simple commands like, "Where are your shoes?" or "Throw it away in the trash can." He can point to various body parts like his nose, toes, ears, and bellybutton. He can also point to any object I ask about in his books. "Where is the cow?" I ask. Jed's little finger proudly points to the object. It floors me sometimes to watch him, but also makes me very happy. I am such a proud momma!

Jed is also surprisingly obedient. He is very sensitive (sometimes with tears!) to our words of warning, like "hot" and "no". And if I enforce a "no" with a trip to Jed's bedroom for a brief timeout, he almost never does that thing again. Wow.

Jed is a typical little boy who loves tractors, trucks, trains, and animals. He points with excitement at any large machinery we see! He also kicks and squeals whenever he sees the park; those stairs and slides are a ton of fun. Jed is a dancer too. Whenever I turn on the radio in the car, he starts bobbing his head to the beat. He is so funny!

This boy of ours is a ham. He loves to show off for anyone new with lots of grins and laughter and hand movements. He loves to play games and be chased. He is a happy kid. Jed makes me smile every day. He is my sunshine. My life would feel so empty without this little man in my life. Jed makes our family whole. We love him more than words can say.

Jed is mastering the art of feeding himself.

Jed loves food with flavor! He likes his chips dipped in salsa and his crackers smeared in hot mustard. Then he licks them clean. Crazy! He also loves fruit: bananas, applesauce and grapes. But his favorites are strawberries and raspberries. I have to ration those. Jed has also begun telling us when he is all done with his meal by throwing his hands up in the air and yelling, "Doone!"

When Daddy comes home... it's time to wrestle!

Jed's favorite place to play is in the pantry. The shelf is just his height. I find trucks and toys mingling with my flour and sugar.

Jed is my "big helper".

(This picture makes me laugh.)

Jed likes to have his nose in everything. He insists on standing on a chair to help me cook. Jed enjoys seeing what's going on and has to be involved. As cute and endearing as it is, it's sometimes frustrating. But I do appreciate his efforts. If I am wiping something up, he sometimes grabs a sponge to help me. He also likes to mop and sweep. I can barely get in a turn. But his favorite job is sorting the silverware!

One of my favorite things to hear is Jed's little voice saying, "Mum, Mum, Mum, Mum," over and over. I say, "Jed, Jed, Jed," and he just grins.

"Oh, no. Where did Jed go? There he is!"

A favorite game: Jed covers his face with his hands and peeks through his fingers. He thinks we can't see him. Ha!

Jed is a riot! There is so much personality in that short little body. We love being parents, especially Jed's parents. I am so grateful to know that he belongs to us forever. We love you, Jed!

Snow

2011-11-19T00:06:00.001-05:00

We woke up to snow! It made me excited for the Holidays! I can't believe they are finally here. Perhaps we will even have a white Christmas. I bundled Jed up and we went outside to play this morning.

We made a "snow creature" just like in one of Jed's books.

Little Footprints

Rain, shine, sleet, or snow: The sandbox is still Jed's favorite place to play.

It's cold!

The swingset and slide are pretty fun too.

I called it a morning before Jed did. He could've stayed outside for hours, cold fingers and all. Tough stuff. What a beautiful morning. I can't wait to do it again!

The Man Cave

2011-11-17T17:41:00.001-05:00

Bron's birthday and Christmas came a little early this year. I surprised my hunk of a man with a full-blown theater system! We are now the proud owners of a Samsung 46" LED Smart TV (blah blah blah), blue ray player, and surround sound speakers. It is FANCY PANTS!!!

Bron has been dreaming of a nice tv for a while now. But with the purchase of our home, it just kept getting shoved down the priority list: we needed a refrigerator, we needed a couch, we needed a washer and a dryer. Needless to say, our savings account has pretty much been depleted. Still, Bron wanted a tv; it's the way he unwinds in the evenings. Plus, it's football season and he was missing out! He talked about getting a new tv a lot. In fact, a few weeks ago, he mentioned how cool it would be to come home and have it all set up for him. I took that as permission to get 'r dun! And to get it done right! (You see, it would be so much less stressful for Bron if he never saw the price tag and just got to sit down and enjoy it.)

I had a tech from Best Buy come out to the house and give me a bid on exactly everything I'd need. Then I went into the store and changed some of his suggestions--like a slightly smaller tv ("on sale") and Klipsch speakers over Bose speakers--and cut his estimate nearly in half. Yes, I spent A LOT of money anyway! I left the store feeling sick to stomach. What had I just done?

The week long wait was excruciating! It was so hard not to say anything to Bron! Yesterday, the tech from Best Buy came out to the house and installed the entire system in one afternoon. He plugged in the movie, Cars, to test it. The picture and sound were INCREDIBLE! How many times have I seen that movie and not noticed the scratches on Lightning McQueen's paint or not heard how Sally's engine purrs? I was over the top EXCITED!!! Bron couldn't get home soon enough. I waited and watched and waited.

Finally, Bron arrived home. I had him follow me into the living room to see all the {Christmas} decorating I'd gotten done. Then I asked him to come see the work I'd done on the den. Bron saw a speaker in the corner. I saw his mouth turn halfway up. Then he saw the tv and exploded in happiness!

Mission Accomplished: Total and Complete Surprise!!!

Bron didn't stop smiling all night long. This kind of home entertainment is totally new to us. We rented our first blue ray dvd and couldn't believe how SHARP the picture is! We feel so spoiled! I don't think we'll need to or even want to go to the movies ever again. (Except for Breaking Dawn, of course. I can't miss that!)

We will definitely be inviting some friends over soon for food, fun, and a movie!

Creature of Habit

2011-11-15T00:34:00.001-05:00

It's a hat!

Confession: I am 26 years old and I am afraid of the dark. Or more accurately, I am afraid of what lurks in the dark. I've watched too many movies and I often let my thoughts run away with my imagination. Really, I can't sleep without my feet covered. I like to lay with my back towards the wall, you know, just in case something sneaks up on me. Then I can stare it straight in the eye before it gets me. It doesn't make any sense, does it?

Bron is routinely gone one or two nights a week. And even though he'd sleep through the sonic boom of a jet plane, Bron is my protector. He cuddles up next to me at night. He is big and warm and comforting. I love him. I miss him when he's gone. Bron has been at his job for three months, you would think I'd be adjusted to his absence by now. But I'm in a new house, a bigger house. There are new creaks and sounds and shadows to become accustomed to. And so I stay awake until the wee hours of the morning. I cannot sleep in my own room; it's too big and empty. Instead, I curl up in the double bed in the guest room. It's cozier in there.

I am a creature of habit. It must be that type A personality in me. When Bron is gone overnight, it's hard for me to adjust. The second night, I do okay. Then the night Bron is home again I sleep so lightly I feel like I haven't slept at all. It's miserable. But the second night he is home, I sleep like a rock. It's so weird. I'm so weird! This whole travel thing is really messing with my system!

But that's all you'll hear me complain about Bron being gone. Bron enjoys his job. Even though he is gone one or two nights a week, his new job schedule beats the stresses and rigor of school 100 times over! While in school, Bron worked and studied 6-7 days a week. And he was so stressed! We saw each other in snipets of time and treated a free day like it was our last on the planet. Now, however, Bron may be gone overnight, but Jed and I selfishly get him to ourselves every other evening and all weekend long! The stress level in this house is minimal. It makes such a difference.

I honestly don't mind my new found alone time. The evenings are mine to do whatever I like without feeling an ounce of guilt. There's more time for fun projects like photo editing, sewing, blogging, and scrap booking. (And you thought I'd clean my house? Yeah, right.) Right now I'm painting and organizing our house! I'm anxious to finish it.

I feel like my entire life has been thrown upside these past two weeks! It's that creature of habit thing sneaking in again. I cannot function correctly when my world is in chaos. Moving has pushed me over the edge: Where did I put my phone? Is the mail in the bag or in the car? Did that bill get paid? What are we going to eat for dinner? I'm at the store, but I can't remember the three things I came for. It's been two weeks since that toilet was scrubbed. Eeew. I HAVE NO ROUTINE!!!

This newness and chaos (for the second time in three months) is killing me! And this time it's taking longer to conquer because this is our home for good; there's just a lot more to do. Bron simply chuckles at me. Just another or week or two... then maybe I can get a handle on a new routine. Then maybe things will feel back to normal. Then maybe those things lurking in the dark will go away too.

Sometimes I wish I could fast-forward to six months or even a year from now, when we are all settled, when we've made new friends, when we've established ourselves in the area and really feel at home. {Sigh.}

You can't tell me my kid isn't cute.

He's darling! And so much fun!

Here's to Happiness: This Week

2011-11-12T22:30:00.000-05:00

What made me happy this week:

Peaking in on Jed to see him lounging like a teenager against some pillows while watching an episode of Baby Einstein. Then I laid down beside him; we looked at each other and laughed. It was like we were sharing funny secrets or something.

My mom and brothers came out to help me unpack! The boys entertained Jed and my mom organized my closets. Then we went to town and ate dinner at Five Guys. Thank you! It turned a bad morning into a good day.

Chasing Jed across the house and listening to him giggle. I love watching his little toddler legs do their funny run.

Bron fixed my washing machine! What a handyman. It now spins as smooth as silk.

Finding dollar bills in my new washing machine. I got paid!

The way the sun warms up my living room in the afternoons.

Stumbling upon the cutest and trendiest fabric shop right here in little Kimberly. (Can you say money pit?)

Finally opening a jar of maple cream from New York. It tastes delicious!

Bron sanded the kitchen cabinet down an eighth of an inch to make my fridge fit. So nice!

Holding Jed and reading stories for an hour.

Baking chocolate chip cookies. A house isn't a home until one has baked in it. And it's no wonder Jed enjoys helping me bake; he ate gobs of cookie dough!

Cuddling with Bron on our new couch. We love talking late at night.

Laughing so hard we cried at the dinner table. Jed is such a ham! Words cannot express how much I love that boy!

Moving into our new home and looking forward to spending our first Christmas here.

Bron dusted off his chef skills this weekend. He is the most practical person I know, but when it comes to food, it doesn't matter the price. Bron recreated a sandwich he ate on his trip to New Orleans. It's called a Muffaletta. The spread is made from all kinds of pickled things, like green olives and capers. I'll admit, I was skeptical, but it tasted awesome!

What made you happy this week?

Yays and Woes

2011-11-09T15:05:00.002-05:00

There's a story behind my new washer and our piles of laundry...

We live in a HOUSE! I know it doesn't sound all that neat; there are houses all over the place. I grew up in several different houses myself. But this time it's different. I live in a house and this time it belongs to me! That garage door opener in my car? It's not borrowed. It's not my mother's. It's mine! That queen size bed in the master bedroom adjacent to that awesome soak tub and walk-in closet? Mine. That brand new refrigerator with the ice box in the door? Mine. That baby boy sleeping in that cozy room full of books, blankets, and toys? Mine. It is my turn to play house! This is my home to clean and care for. This is my home to cook meals and relax in. It's surreal. We've only been here a day and it already feels like home. I am overwhelmed with excitement for the future.

Maybe I shouldn't say that all this is solely "mine". It belongs to my hard-working husband too. He deserves the credit. There is no way I could afford to have all this all on my own. We feel very grateful for Bron's job and the abundance in our lives!

We went home to visit the Nelson Dairy over the weekend. Bron's brother, Garret, just returned from his two year mission to Uruguay. Garret hasn't changed a bit. He still looks just as tough as the day he left. (Garret was a state champ wrestler.) He sometimes struggles to speak only English, but I'm glad he's back. I've always like Garret.

Warming up and relaxing in the hot tub!

Call, Garret, Jed, and Me
(The only pictures I took all weekend long.)

If you knew those Nelsons you'd know that they know how to work hard and then play harder. Well, this week we got it a little backwards. We relaxed and enjoyed each others company all weekend long. Then on Monday, Garret and Momma Nelson turned into a couple of work horses. They helped us move! It was so much easier to move this time around than it was three months ago. It didn't matter if all our stuff fit well or if I had enough boxes because we were only moving a few miles away; we could always make another trip. Merri Sue and I just threw things into boxes. Garret packed them into the grain trailer and truck. Bron came home early and the two men loaded the furniture. We packed and moved EVERYTHING all in one day. It was amazing! I'd been stressing over this move for over a week. My life was in total chaos, half living in the apartment and half living in our new house while we were painting it. I was more than ready to move and regain a sense of sanity and blessed routine. We couldn't have done it without Garret and Momma Nelson! I am so happy and grateful they came to help! Really, a simple thank you doesn't suffice. We owe you guys! Just ask, we will be there to cane the raspberries, wash the windows, and help move Garret someday in the far-off future.

Well, it's two days later and the house is still in upheaval, but our things are slowly finding a place and our new home is coming together.

EXCEPT... I have this brand new front loading washer. Because we bought it in Idaho Falls, the store couldn't deliver it. Bron loaded it into the trailer over the weekend and set it up last night. It's been nothing but a nightmare. First, it leaked. No, it gushed water all over the tile floor. We mopped the wet up with towels and finally found that the pump filter wasn't screwed on tight. At least it was an easy fix, right? Then, while running a load of towels (yes, the same towels we'd used to mop up the floor!) the washer suddenly began to shake violently! It was noisy and scary! I thought it was going to explode. Even sitting on it didn't keep the washer from walking across the floor. I'm afraid it will run right through the wall. I'm not exaggerating. We messed with the feet over and over to make it level. It's level. We even placed it on a vibration absorbing mat made for our treadmill. It helps a little, but the washer is still a beast! I got a load of whites halfway done this morning before the washer unplugged itself from the wall. I'm just not sure what to do! Piece of crap washer. You were supposed to be a dream come true!

THEN, my refrigerator and six foot freezer (hello, beef and frozen berries!) were to be delivered this morning. Hooray! I'd been sticking Jed's milk jug outside to keep cool and it was frozen solid this morning. Well, the delivery guys got lost. When I saw their truck making its way down our street I ran outside in my socks with Jed on my hip to wave them down. Then the door behind me shut. Uh-oh. I was locked outside! All of our new doors open from the inside even when they are locked from the outside. There was still frost on the ground and I could see my breath. Neither Jed or I had a jacket... or shoes. I checked every door. No luck. Even the windows were sealed. The delivery men were kind enough to let Jed and me warm up in the truck. I felt so dumb. After several long minutes I called Bron and he suggested trying the small garage door. Luck! We were in! However, the delivery men discovered that my fridge doesn't fit into its space. Bron and I measured it over and over! We even exchanged refrigerators because we concluded that the door probably wouldn't open. And now this one won't fit either. But maybe it will after Bron takes out the baseboard and shaves down the cabinet an eighth of an inch! Boo.

So here I sit in a beautiful new house... where nothing works and nothing fits. At least for today.

It's been a bad morning.

Busy Bees

2011-11-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

We've been busy! Busy getting things together for our home loan, busy shopping for new items to go in said home, busy painting our new home, busy with Halloween, busy with family, busy with life! It's really been fun! However, painting trim is the worst kind of busyness there is. I think it takes just as long to tape around it as it does to paint it! The detail is excruciating and the trim just seems to go on forever. I want to pound my head against the wall. Will it ever end?

Amid our busyness, here are a few pictures and anecdotes from recent weeks that I don't want forgotten:

October 16, 2011
Jed's most favorite book in the whole wide world is Richard Scarry's Best Word Book Ever. It was given to him by his sweetheart, Anna. I've caught Jed reading it all on his own. He'd read it all day if he could.

October 18, 2011

Harry Barry Park. On a sunny afternoon, it's our favorite place to be.

October 25, 2011

Jed frequently puts both hands up into the air. It has one of two meanings: "All done!" or "Touchdown!"

Here, both hands in the air meant "Goal!" on the Foosball table.

This picture was taken at Grandma Nelson's house. Because Bron was scheduled to be out of town all week, Jed and I spent two days with family. The purpose of the trip other than not being lonely? Shopping! Merri Sue and I were so excited! I have an entire house to decorate and we were both in the market for new couches. Amber and Leah came along as well. We shopped till we dropped for two days straight. Merri Sue also introduced me to Kiwi Loco and Orange Leaf: pay by the ounce frozen yogurt in all sorts of delicious flavors! We got our fill plus some! I'm hooked on it like a bad habit. It's a good thing I can claim it's "healthy!"

Anyhow, Bron's plans were changed and he got into town early Tuesday evening. Our little family of three took off to do a little shopping of our own. Two hours later, we were $3,000 poorer! But we had a washing machine and dryer and a brand new sectional with three recliners! (All for a house that we had not yet officially bought!)

When we walked into the furniture store I directed Bron to the sofa recliners that his dad really liked. Bron put his feet up and had the same reaction I did: "this feels amazing!" Then Bron looked over at the price tag. It was in our price range. The retailer knocked off a few hundred dollars and it was a done deal. Because it was a spur of the moment purchase, we decided to put the cost of our new couch on my credit card, which has a limit. The credit card came back denied.

"Do you have anything on it?" Bron asked.

"Oh yeah. I do. Ten dollars. Lunch."

"You put lunch on a credit card?"

"Yeah. You were out of town and I didn't want you to know and give me a hard time about it!"

We had a pretty good laugh. You see, Bron is a die hard teaser. My plan backfired!

Love this picture of Grandma Nelson and Jed

Watching the football game!

The evening of Friday October 28th, we drove to Declo to see Bron's little brother, Kaleb, play football. Kaleb is an aggressive guy! He made a ton of great tackles! Jed was a trooper. I dressed him in his snow pants and coat and completed the ensemble with a beanie from Bron's mission to Russia. Jed never felt the cold! He sat on my lap through 3/4 of the game. That's a long time for someone so little! Jed seemed mesmerized by the lights and crowd.

Our Dragon on Halloween!!!

(I'm supposed to be Rosie the Riveter, but it was too cold to go out without a jacket.)

We took Jed to the Trunk or Treat at Kimberly Park. Jed didn't know what to think! He wouldn't let us put him down. He must've been wary of all those other weirdos out! Haha However, as soon as that first sucker was placed in his pumpkin bucket, Jed was after it! Jed's costume attracted a lot of attention. I have to admit, that tail is a riot!

And that completes our lives as of late!

Home Sweet Home

2011-10-30T23:30:00.000-04:00

It's official: WE ARE HOMEOWNERS!!! And up to our eyeballs in debt. Despite that, we are totally thrilled! (And a little scared too. Thoughts about properly caring for a house and yard can be a little overwhelming. Plus, I'm sure some extra bills will make their way to my new kitchen counter.) We can't believe that we have a house of our very own. Isn't this something we've been dreaming of for years? This is where I will raise my babies and make countless memories. This is where my children will go to school. We are surrounded by the people who will become our friends. This decision affects many years--if not the rest--of our lives. And it feels great! Bron carried me over the threshold in celebration. Then we kissed and I jumped up and down in excitement. We still can't believe this is ours! Bron's hard work has finally paid off.

OUR NEW HOUSE!!!

The first time we toured the house, we lingered. It wasn't perfect, but we really liked it for so many reasons! We explored every opportunity in the area, but kept coming back to this particular house. We planned and plotted and finally made an offer. We signed papers on the morning of Friday October 28th and closed that afternoon, exactly a month to the day after making our first offer. The credit for that goes to our awesome realtor. He went above and beyond the call of duty, like crawling under the house to prove to the plumber that there really was a leak and running the water for two hours to clear out the chlorine for a good water sample. We appreciated his honest opinions and are glad to have a new friend.

Our new home is located out in the country. To me, Idaho means space: lots of wide open fields and views that go on for miles. Living in an apartment inside the city made me feel claustrophobic, especially after living on a farm the last four years. We found our ideal abode five miles south of Kimberly (a 20 minute drive to Twin Falls for grocery shopping) in a micro-community known as Pleasant Valley. The name "Pleasant Valley" makes me laugh, but when we drive over the hill overlooking our little valley, it takes my breath away. It is pure Idaho beauty! Especially at sunset. Our new home is located on the abandoned back nine of a golf course. It has a spectacular view of the south hills. Basically, it's a paradise made just for us.

Some House Statistics:

Built in 2004
2105 square feet
Sits on an acre (A BIG yard for Jed!)
3 bedrooms + den
2 bathrooms
Mud room has built in bench and shelves (love it!)
Double OVEN!
Spacious corner pantry
Light fixtures and hardware that we would have picked out ourselves
Lots of windows = lots of beautiful light
Well water and water rights for the lawn (whew!)
Southwest theme with tons of tile (I've heard the tile is great for all sorts of child bodily fluid clean-up)

The main living areas: Kitchen and Living Room

Master Bathroom with soak tub and walk-in shower

Front Courtyard

One of the best things about this house is that we won't need a fence. There are two enclosed courtyards for entertaining. Jed already loves to play in the rocks. I have a hunch that I will find him basking in the fountain naked next summer.

Back Courtyard

Needs a little pruning?

Our backyard and view of the south hills

Back View of our home

We are already embarking on some very time-consuming home improvement projects. We can't wait to move in! And neither can Jed. I can barely peel him away from the sand box and his trucks. What a boy!

A Genuinely Happy Boy

I love this smile!!!

Beware: A Dragon Lives in the Woods

2011-10-27T00:13:00.000-04:00

A little dragon has chosen our home for his lair this Halloween.

He may look sweet, but really he's a ferocious monster (who doesn't like to have his picture taken)!

He breathes fire and fear and chomps down with razor sharp teeth.

He can even fly away on two undersized wings after he smashes the living room furniture to smithereens with his spiky tail.

"You look tasty!"
Watch out. This dragon may appear on your doorstep this Halloween demanding candy. And if he doesn't get his sugar fix, well then, he may just eat you!

This costume was made by a proud and loving mother. Believe it or not, I actually sewed this costume for Jed. After all, he is our little monster. I spent too many hours stitching, un-stitching, and restitching. It was tedious work for someone as inexperienced as me, especially with a gigantic tail in the way. The costume certainly is not perfect, but I am completely satisfied with the result: Jed will be the cutest little dragon to haunt the streets on Halloween night!

The funny thing is (much to my relief) that Jed absolutely loves to wear his costume! His eyes light up, his whole body dances, and he can hardly wait to put it on. He likes dragging his faux tail in circles around the living room. The hood is a hit too, which is uncharacteristic of someone his age. Jed doesn't mind when the nose falls down across his eyes. Apparently walking blind is totally worth being a fire-breathing dragon for a while. We literally roll with laughter watching our little boy!

I wonder how much more Jed will like being a dragon once folks start handing out candy?!

Bbrrmmm...

2011-10-19T01:29:00.000-04:00

It must be engineered into the Y chromosome.

Jed purses his lips and lets the spit rip. "Bbrrmmmm," goes this truck's little engine all day long.

I never taught him that. I can't make car noises if my life depended on it.

But for Jed, it's as natural as breathing.

19

2011-10-18T08:30:00.000-04:00

Bird House Gourds

The Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-17T02:34:00.003-04:00

Our Pumpkin

Just exactly what is it about Fall that gets me so excited? I love everything about it. Fall seems to intoxicate all my senses: the feelings, the sights, the smells of the season. It all seeps into my pores and I just can't get enough. I love how the air feels crisp and cool. I love how the trees morph into brilliant shades of orange, yellow, and red and set the hillsides on fire. I love wearing jeans and long-sleeved shirts and cuddling under a blanket with my sweetheart. And I love that urge to bake something sweet and the aroma it leaves in the kitchen. But most of all, I love knowing that my favorite holidays are just around the corner! I think this time of year is about home and family and everything warm and good. It's about traditions and creating memories that will last. Yeah, I think that sums it up.

This weekend we took Jed to the pumpkin patch. I couldn't wait to see Jed's reaction! (I also wanted those classy pictures of Jed next to some colorful orange pumpkins since he is so close to turning a year and a half. Unfortunately, I didn't get those incredible pictures; Jed does not care to have his picture taken. But we did have a great time!) Jed walked through the mini straw maze that was set up with a curious grin. He crawled over big pumpkins and tried to claim some small ones for himself. Then Jed went nuts when he saw the tractor! He practically begged for a ride! He pointed and squealed and stared open-mouthed. It was so cute! We went for a ride. I love how the little things make Jed's entire body light up! It makes me feel awesome as his mother.

The pumpkin patch!

On the tractor pulled hay ride

My favorite picture of Jed from our evening out.

Happy Fall!

Goober Grins

2011-10-14T15:45:00.000-04:00

This boy makes my day.

Love you, Jed!

I Can Sew

2011-10-13T17:53:00.002-04:00

I can sew... sort of.

I am sewing Jed a Halloween costume. He's going to be a scary dragon. I must be crazy. Me, who has zero patience when it comes to sewing? Yes, because I'm a first-time mom and I love my son. And I'm crazy. (Or did I already mention that?) For Halloween this year Jed can walk. And though he can't actually talk yet, he can eat candy. I want to see him smile and get excited! I hope he loves this holiday just as much as I do. And I hope he gets lots of yummy goodies, like chocolate, thrown into his bag so I can snitch a bite or two... or three.

I have very little experience when it comes to sewing. I made some pajama pants once and some pillow cases. And they weren't spectacular. But my mom bought this awesome sewing machine for me as a gift anyway. It has only been pulled out a handful of times. Once was to sew a bridesmaid's dress. I never washed it because I was afraid it'd fall apart!

But now, I'm ready. I think I'm ready to learn to sew--a little bit anyways. Surprisingly, I have more patience this time around. I haven't thrown anything against the wall... yet. Maybe it's because there is no one around to complain to or no one who can do it for me. I have stitched and unstitched and restitched almost every single seam of this costume so far, sometimes more than once! It's been grueling. But I'm learning lots. I can't believe I picked such a difficult pattern to start with. Really, look what I'm sewing with: a big fat stuffed dragon tail attached to the back! That's what the directions said:

11. Turn tail and spike right side out. Stuff tail firmly with fiberfill. Baste raw edges together.
12. Pin tail to right back, matching symbols. Baste raw edges together...
16. Stitch front to back at inner leg.

I think it might look decent enough to wear in the DARK when I'm done with it. And hopefully, just hopefully, Jed will be happy to wear it.

Here's to Happiness: This Weekend

2011-10-10T00:17:00.000-04:00

Can you believe this is Jed just last fall?
This picture makes me happy!

What made me happy this weekend:

Cuddling with Jed as he guzzled his sippy of milk first thing in the morning.
Going out to dinner with my boys.
Seeing the look on Jed's face as he watched a man twist a balloon into a little red dog. So cool.
Relief Society Super Saturday. I made this amazing frame with an amazing picture of the Twin Falls Temple to go in it. I also made a super cute "Trick-or-Treat" craft that I am so proud of.
Apples + Caramel + Friends = A Good Evening
Reading stories to Jed and smelling that baby shampoo leftover in his hair.
Baking pumpkin muffins on Sunday morning.
A Sunday afternoon nap.
Bron fixing the flat tires to my two favorite toys: the jogging stroller and my bike.
Dressing up in my fancy black and performing with the local symphony. We played a piano concerto with this seriously remarkable pianist.

Bonus:

Staying up and talking with my hubby.

This is not an original idea, a happy list. I stole the idea from a friend who first saw it HERE, and I'm sure this girl was inspired by something else herself. Anyhow, I think it's great and want to incorporate some happy lists into this blog in my own way. Here's to finding happiness in the little things!

Mommy VS. Homemaker

2011-10-06T23:33:00.002-04:00

Play Dough: Our rainy day activity.

Autumn has finally arrived. This is our first drizzly week here in Idaho. But I can’t complain; this kind of rain doesn’t hold a candle to the infinitely dreary days we left behind in New York. Bron and I laugh whenever we hear folks talk about “a lot of rain” here. They have no idea what a lot of rain is. It takes a lot of ingenuity to tame the desert. We use dams and reservoirs, irrigation and sprinklers to save and spread whatever moisture we do receive. Out east, however, there are no irrigation systems or sprinklers. It rains that much. All the time. Year round. The crops are simply planted and they grow. The grass is naturally green and the roads are lined with thick stands of trees. It’s amazing and beautiful. Right now I am missing the beautiful reds, oranges, and yellows that smear the countryside during this time of year. It’s one piece of northern New York I wish I could have taken with me.

Until this week, the weather has been eighty degrees and sunny here in Idaho. Jed and I have spent every possible moment playing outside. We got into the habit of going to the park almost every evening. I love going to the park. It’s an opportunity for me to forget all the chores and distractions that await me at home and concentrate solely on having a good time with my little boy. Whenever Jed hears the word “park” he heads straight for the door, so I know Jed enjoys his time there just as much as I do.

There are always a lot of other kids at the park too. Jed loves watching the big kids, often with both hands placed ever so patiently behind his back. One night, Jed watched as the older boys took a running start and scurried up the slide. When the coast was clear, Jed took off running toward the slide too but stopped short at the bottom. He didn’t know what to do next! It was darling.

Some of these other kids come with their parents. Some of them don’t. Sadly, it shows. It seems that every child wants some adult enthusiasm and approval. I just wish it was their parents who got to cheer them on and not me.

“Watch me!” they say. “Look how high I can climb.” “Do you want to hear this ring tone on my phone?” “Can you push me on the swing?”

Sometimes I reply enthusiastically. Other times, I just nod and half ignore their pleas. I’m just not sure what my boundaries are with other people’s children.

A little yelling also helps to squash that play dough!

I know there are countless family situations out there, but our outings to the park solidify to me the importance of quality time with my children. Ten minutes of my undivided attention is hundreds of times better than any other mundane everyday thing I could be doing: dishes, laundry, cooking, preparing a lesson, exercising, showering, blogging, etc. But many of those things must be done as well. Which leads me to the question: How do I balance it all?

I think I like THIS explanation the best. I love how she describes the things on her “to do” list as horses racing for first place. One takes the lead for a while before another takes its place. No one horse really ever wins. It’s just one eternal race.

More than anything, I want to be a good mother. I worry. I worry that I am not playing enough with Jed. I worry that I am not teaching him all the things that he should be learning. I worry that I am not a good enough disciplinarian. I worry that I don’t have it in me to add another child to the mix and fulfill that child’s needs (and my own!).

I feel like my life is often Mommy versus Homemaker.

The good news? Mommy wins out more often, I think. Wrestle with Jed or do some push-ups? Wrestle. Clean the bathroom or go to the park? Park.

Confession: It takes me two or three days to do the laundry. The bathroom doesn’t get cleaned on time every week, but it does get done. My dinners are simple. We do not live in filth. But we do not live in spotless cleanliness either.

Bron often comes home and asks what we did that day. The answer goes something like this: “We went for a run, vacuumed, folded a load of laundry, and then we read some stories, and we played at the park and we threw some rocks and…”

My life rocks. I play and play and play. And even though I feel like I’m a poor cook and that my life is constantly falling behind, I am happy. I noticed that the more quality time I give to Jed, the better I feel! I am so lucky that I get to stay at home and be Jed’s mother all day, every day. I am glad that I have the opportunity to be the key player in his young life. Yes, I get to deal with every mess and temper tantrum—which usually leaves me exhausted and spent by the end of the day—but I also get to watch Jed learn and grow; I don’t miss a thing. I am the recipient of many hugs, smiles, and displays of affection. I get to see the world through a child’s eyes and even be a kid myself sometimes. Being a mother is a wonderful job!

Bottom line: I hope I can always make quality time with my children a priority, and not feel too guilty when I'm getting something else productive done.

I love my boy!

Cookie Dough

2011-10-02T22:00:00.000-04:00

Baking weather is beginning to descend upon us. I made cookies this weekend and thought it would be fun to include Jed in the process. Jed stood on a chair and LOVED being able to see all that was going on. I made sure he was far enough away from the mixer that he couldn't just reach in without having to do some kind of climbing stunt on the counter. But when I turned my back for just a second, Jed suddenly tossed the spatula into the mixer! The mixer made an awful grinding noise and snapped the spatula in two! Cleanly. In half. Ooops! Neither Jed nor I expected that. That's one powerful little mixer! I'm just glad it wasn't Jed's fingers. Lesson learned: always put the lid on the Bosch.

By the way, these weren't just any cookies. They were Maple Walnut Cookies! And they were delicious. Just ask Jed!

We had one of those much needed stay-at-home and relax kind of weekends. We enjoyed dinner with some new friends. We watched General Conference in our jammies and ate warm breakfast food. We perused through Lowe's and dreamed about the day we will have a house of our very own. And we played with Jed at the park and ordered Chinese takeout. I love spending time at home with both my boys. It's rejuvenating.

Budding Independence

2011-09-29T22:00:00.000-04:00

We’ve finally reached “that” milestone. It’s here. And it has hit us like a ton of bricks. We’re still scrambling to pick up the pieces of our broken bodies as more bricks rain down. Yes, I’m talking about the “terrible two’s”—which really start at about 18 months, but no one ever tells a first time mom that. It just happened one day. I thought I saw it coming, but it came like a freight train; it came much bigger and faster than I anticipated.

Where did my sweet baby go? He grew into a little boy overnight and suddenly has a mind of his own. Plus, little boys have no natural inhibitors or boundaries. Therefore, Jed is a monster; a short little monster about knee high.

For example, Jed is training to be a professional pitcher for the New York Yankees or something. He throws EVERYTHING! We’re lucky he hasn’t made a hole in the wall… yet. Over the last few days I’ve begun taking action by picking up the offending toy with a “Uh-oh! This is no fun. You threw your toy. It’s all gone.” I don’t know if the consequence has quite sunk in yet. It certainly has backfired at the dinner table! For a long time now, I’ve simply said “All done.” and removed Jed from his booster seat whenever I see him throw his food. (It can scrape the window!) Instead of Jed learning NOT to throw his food, it’s simply his queue that he is done with his meal. The little stink.

Today (this happened on a different outing yesterday) I went shopping with Jed. Jed is my little monster and I wanted to get a head start on his monster Halloween outfit (because I’m CRAZY about Fall and Halloween is one of my all-time favorite holidays). So there we were in the fabric store. I’m checking out the sales and trying to read the tiny print on the back of a pattern I’m crossing my fingers I can actually sew while simultaneously trying to decide on the best colors for Jed’s costume. I let Jed stand in the cart with each fist holding a car. About five minutes later, he is done with those. Off they fly into the corner, onto the floor, and out of reach. I bend down, grab them, and stuff them in my purse. “Uh-oh. You threw your toys. All gone.” Then Jed starts to scream. I’m in public. I can’t let other people’s ears suffer, so I pull another toy out of my bag. Soon we’re on to the pretzels. They too get smashed and thrown with a loud helping of whine from Jed’s obnoxious lungs. I start over with the toys. I hand him some spools of thread. Each item holds his interest just long enough for me to think he’s okay. I must’ve looked like an idiot, bending down over and over to pick something up off the floor. You’d think I’d have buns of steel after doing all those squats. No, all I got was frustrated and short-tempered. I should’ve just left. But I didn’t. That stubborn part of me really wanted to see this through. Bad idea. I was feeling so ill-tempered by the time we left, I yelled at Jed when he started to whine in the back seat. Guess what? He laughed! Jed had the nerve to laugh! I guess I can cross raising my voice off the list of successful discipline tactics. When we finally arrived home, Jed begged for a piece of candy. You can probably guess what I told him. I told him “no”. That led to Jed throwing a royal fit, which led me to pick him up and put him in his room where he could continue to throw an even bigger tantrum.

I know you’re laughing, but I’d had it. I needed to vent. Thankfully, my mother answered her phone. She laughed when I told her my story, but then dumped a whole load of sympathy. It was just what I needed to hear. I guess this is normal behavior for a budding toddler. I should probably keep my shopping excursions short or just go by myself. My mom reminded me that I should also notice the good behavior and make a big deal out of it. (Oh yeah, I’d forgotten all about that!) She also reminded me that there is nothing better I could be doing than being a mother. Thanks, Mom!

This stage of Jed’s development is hard. He’s not quite old enough to communicate and he only understands about half of what I am saying to him. Raising Jed is going to take lots of time, lots of consistency, lots of patience, and lots of love. Unfortunately, my fuse for patience is a little short and I sometimes let a thrown toy go unnoticed. But I have time. And I definitely have more love than I ever imagined I would ever have towards somebody!

I can do better tomorrow. I can be a better mother. I can have more patience. I can handle each situation better with more practice. At least that’s what I am telling myself!

Is it all right to say that sometimes Jed is the bane of my existence but also the very reason for my living? What a paradox!

And what's a blog post without pictures?

The nursery in our new ward at church serves water in cups. Jed had no idea what to do! So being the awesome mom that I am, I gave him a cup to practice with at home. It was a flop. Apparently, a cup is just a device to hold and soak other food items! Gross. I think we'll be sticking to a sippy cup for a while longer. Jed has also been experimenting with a spoon. Yogurt seems to be the food of preference. It's messy business, but that's Jed's job!

Jed likes to play underneath the bathroom sink. He has a fascination with q-tips. He throws them around and sucks off the cotton. It's a good thing they're easy to clean up because this particular mess was totally worth my relaxing hot shower!

Our Awesomely Long Weekend

2011-09-28T22:00:00.000-04:00

We had a fabulous weekend with lots of family and lots of activities!

Jed and I technically began our weekend a little early on Thursday. Bron had some farms to visit in the Treasure Valley, so we came along for the ride and he dropped us off at my mom's house. It felt so good to spend an afternoon alone with my mom! We ate lunch (I haven't seen Jed eat that much at once in a long time), played at the park, and talked with my sister on the phone. It was simple, but relaxing and fun. I am so happy we live so close!

Jed is a trooper. He's a great traveler.

I like this picture because I loved the look of Jed's tiny white church shirt hanging next to Dad's big one.

On Friday, Jed and I accompanied Bron on a trip to visit a dairy in a beautiful little valley in the middle of nowhere. Afterwards, we had a few hours to kill so we decided to take the short trip down the road and explore Craters of the Moon. Craters of the Moon is a strange desolate place. It's where a river of lava flowed just over 2,000 years ago. I wouldn't call it pretty. I'd call it weird.

Craters of the Moon

We did some short hikes/walks.

Jed gets nervous on uneven terrain and likes someone to hold his hand. My pleasure!

We also went spelunking through a deep lava tube cave!

Next, we drove over to Butte, Idaho where Ririe High School was playing football against their long time rival. I love fall football games: the lights, the sweaters and blankets, the cheering in the stands. (Even Jed had some 14 year old girls screaming his name!) It's an annual ritual I hope continues for generations. We lost the game but had a good time anyway.

We all cheered for Bron's younger brother, Kaleb. Can you spot #52?

Saturday was a blast! We spent the entire afternoon paint balling! The Nelson boys grew up with their cousins, the Spackman's; another family of boys (plus one token princess). Girls are a rarity in this family! But the boys are all growing up, dating, and getting married. Which means the best picks of all girls belong to the family now! We got the family together, donned Uncle Troy's old army attire, and headed into the cotton woods. I was nervous. I'd never been paint balling before. All I'd heard was that it hurt! I got shot right in the arm midway through our first game. It stung, but after that, I was good to go! I didn't want to stop playing! We crawled through the brush, hid behind trees, and shot each other with hundreds of paint balls! I think everyone came away with a couple of welts and some sore muscles. My arm is still tender. But it was totally worth it! We're already planning our next battle.

Top: JT's head shot, Toughies Talon and Amber, Me with a gun (scary!)

Bottom: Call ready for battle, Amber taking Talon by surprise

Paintball Warriors of the Cotton Woods

Call, Ryker, Chelsea, Bron, Kaleb, Ladd, Talon, Amber, Chade, Joni

We finished up the weekend at Ladd's mission farewell on Sunday. Then we spent many more hours with extended family. Yes, we ate too, of course! That night "the guys" (Travis, Tyson, Sam, and Brett) and their wives--and now their babies too--all came over to hang out. They are Bron's best friends and probably always will be. It's so much fun to see everyone and especially see the babies!

On Monday, Jed and I got to see what Bron does for work first-hand. We stopped at several dairies and feedlots. It made for a long day in the car, but we got to stop at Rupe's for burgers and shakes for lunch. That always makes my day. That, and watching Jed do a dance in his car seat! Turn up the music!

Being so close to family again is a very, very, good thing.

I also had the privilege of taking pictures of my ONLY niece, Leah.

She's so cute! She has her momma's gorgeous crystal blue eyes.

18

2011-09-22T00:01:00.003-04:00

A Piece of Idaho Beauty

City of Rocks

2011-09-20T22:54:00.001-04:00

For our family, the weekends aren’t meant for sitting still. The weekends are meant for fun! Last Saturday we decided to explore The City of Rocks—a national reserve. It was a two hour drive to get there through some of the prettiest (also known as “Podunk”) countryside. The City of Rocks is a geological anomaly. Slabs of granite jut out of the ground hundreds of feet high! It was a unique landmark for California bound wagon trains in the 1840’s. Now, it’s a Mecca for rock climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts, like us.

Bron and I have always enjoyed hiking together, and we’re determined to pass that love along to our son. We strapped Jed into the backpack and started hiking the trails. It felt wonderful to be outside! It was peaceful and quiet and uniquely pretty. The day just felt refreshing.

Views from our hike.

Jed took a short snooze in the backpack.

The sign reads: "Pets must be leashed at all times."

A little boy's paradise: A CITY of ROCKS!

The weekend prior was spent with family at the Eastern Idaho State Fair. We watched some horse races! My favorite races were the Indian Relays. Even Jed got into the fun. He was a little confused, but he watched the horses make their laps and clapped with everyone else. Then Amber and I spent ten dollars in five minutes flat. We rode two fair rides that took us upside down, made us dizzy, and pumped up our adrenaline. Thanks, Amber! Afterwards, we all watched a hypnotist show and perused through the agricultural showcases before ending the evening at Rupe’s Diner for dinner. That was a fun day!

As for the everyday stuff? Well, Bron has been getting into the swing of things at work. He’s been busy! But I can tell he is enjoying it. I went a little crazy with Bron’s first paycheck. Wow. It’s AWESOME to finally have some money in the bank! However, I learned something valuable: It doesn’t matter how much money one has; there will always be something one wants. And if one is not careful, then it doesn’t matter how much money there is because it’s spent and gone! I think Bron expected I’d go a little crazy. He’s not chastising me too much. Haha Now, I’m reigning myself in and getting excited for DIY projects and couponing.

Because it’s still so nice outside, my main modes of transportation for Jed and I are the stroller and the bike. Both have flat tires now. I was more than three miles from home when the front tire on my bike went as flat as a pancake. So I walked. It was a miserable trek. By the time we reached the apartment, I acquired a blister and a screaming baby. Not cool.

So why do I suddenly have so many flat tires on the things I’ve been using all summer? Bron simply said, “Maybe someone was watching out for us in New York. We can afford to fix a flat tire now.” I wonder how close to the truth that is?

Our New Life in Idaho

2011-09-08T17:02:00.002-04:00

We have been making our home in Twin Falls, Idaho for nearly a month now. So far… so good. Twin is a little city equipped with absolutely everything a family might need. There’s a college, a brand new hospital, lots of shopping, and a ton of parks. What makes Twin Falls unique is the gorge. The Snake River runs through a deep canyon just north of the city and a bridge hundreds of feet above the canyon floor is the city’s major entrance from the freeway. It’s a breathtaking sight. The canyon boasts some parks and golf courses and the famous Shoshone Falls. There are many trails along the rim and inside the canyon. Jed and I have been exploring our new stomping grounds. I don’t think we’ll get too bored any time soon. Also, the weather in Idaho is downright awesome! It’s been its typical self: hot and dry. That’s right. No rain. Just how I like it, especially after experiencing rain showers on an eighteen hour rotation in northern New York. We’ve been soaking up these last weeks of sunshine and summer like sponges.

Bron is really enjoying his new job at J.D. Heiskell. Bron smiles when anyone mentions his new job title: Dairy Consultant. Bron truly landed his dream job. We feel so blessed and so lucky! Bron works with a bunch of men that have many similar interests. They make it easy for Bron to feel comfortable in his new work environment. Bron’s job also comes with some very nice perks, like a “new” truck. Bron now drives a white 2010 Dodge pickup. It’s a very nice ride and doesn’t belong in the driveway of our apartment complex. But I like the sight of my honey driving a truck. It’s manly and kind of sexy! The truck comes with all the upgrades including satellite radio and leather seats with both heat and air conditioning. Yes, you read that right: air conditioned seats! No more sweaty backs and rear ends. The seats have fans. Wow. On top of all that, Bron has an iphone4 that he is connected to and a new laptop. The gas Bron uses in the pickup is reimbursed through the company along with his meals, hotel stays, and any other expenses (like golf!) done on the job. I’m a little jealous. Bron eats out every afternoon while Jed and I pick through the fridge for leftovers! (Oh well. I still think my end of the deal as stay-at-home mom rocks!)

So what does Bron actually do? Well, first, Bron is learning how to properly balance rations. That is, Bron creates and checks different diets for calves, fresh cows, dry cows, etc. using whatever ingredients are available on the market while also trying to get the farmer the best price. Properly fed cows are healthy cows. Healthy cows yield more milk. Next, Bron visits with various dairy farmers. Bron helps the farmers troubleshoot problems on their farms and sells feed. Some farmers have contracts with J.D. Heiskell and others do not. Right now, Bron is being trained to work with farmers in Utah, central and eastern Idaho, and Montana. Bron can be gone one night a week, two nights a week, or sometimes none at all. One night away is all right for me. Two nights makes me feel a little lonely. However, the good news is Bron is home ALL WEEKEND LONG! Sadly, we're still adjusting to all this free time together. We look at each other and aren't quite sure what to do! But it’s a wonderful change I think we will all adjust to pretty quickly.

I am officially a full-time homemaker and mother. It blows my mind. We are living the typical American dream life (minus the cute house in the suburb, but something like that will come later). Bron leaves for work before 8:00AM. I finally roll out of bed a few minutes later and get some breakfast for myself and the little man. Then Jed and I spend the rest of the day together. We go for a jog, play at the park, do some chores, eat, take a nap, eat again, run errands, and more. Dinner is around 6:00PM when Bron comes home. And before I become complacent, I have to mention my dishwasher! It does all the clean-up work. Instead of standing at the sink for 45 minutes every night, I run through the kitchen like a whirlwind and have it clean in 15 minutes. The stress level in this house is at a minimum—mostly because Bron is done with school and we are no longer living like students. I can’t explain how nice it is!

On Tuesday nights I play my violin in the local symphony at the college. It’s half community members and half college students. There’s some talent and it’s fun to play again!

We’re getting involved in the ward (Yes, an Actual. Functional. Ward!) at church. I've been asked to teach the Sunday School lesson to the 15-16 year olds. Bron is my assistant; he's there to lay down the law. I've already determined not to take anything those teenagers do or say personally because I remember what a brat I was at that age and I knew it too! Bron also teaches the lesson in Elders' Quorum twice a month. And Jed is getting his first taste of nursery here and there.

We have also been house shopping already. It’s exciting and so much fun! I can’t believe the homes that we are able to afford. I keep dreaming of the day we will move into one!

I’d say we’ve hit the ground running, but still, it’s a slow process to make friends again and feel truly at home. I often feel a little lonely and find myself missing our little corner of New York and the friends I had there. I don't feel needed here yet by anyone (except for the little boy who clings to my knees in the mornings and begs for his sippy of milk and a story) and I find myself resenting being in an LDS saturated community. I miss the green and the trees of New York. I like the openness here in Idaho. I like being able to see the hills and mountains in the distance, but I don’t like being able to see all of my neighbor’s homes and all of their cars. The trees hid everything like that in New York; they made me feel secluded. I miss Miner Farm and being able to take Jed out to see the cows and horses. I actually miss my job feeding calves a little bit! I miss my runs and bike rides and the lake. And I really desperately miss a few special people! I know we’ll always keep in touch, but it’s just not the same. I feel very blessed to have crossed paths with them for a while.

But anyway, here’s to a bright future! I think we’re exactly where we’re supposed to be. Too many things aligned just right to make us think otherwise. In time, I think everything will be more than okay.

Happy Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-07T17:50:00.001-04:00

We had a wonderful three day weekend packed full to the brim with fun, family, and food!

Our little family of three kicked off the weekend here in Twin Falls at the local fair. I love the fair! The fair is the last celebration of summer. I look forward to it every year! We devoured fatty fair food, strolled through the exhibits, and spent lots of time looking at all the 4H prize animals. That was Jed's favorite part--that and the giant tractors! His mouth hung open in awe.

At the county fair!

Jed inside a giant tractor tire!

On Saturday afternoon, my mom and family drove the two hours from Meridian, ID to see us. We went to Dierke's Lake for a hamburger cookout. We all ate too much delicious picnic food like brownies, and potato salad, fresh fruit, and a zucchini dip that tasted just like an artichoke dip. The boys are great babysitter/playmates for Jed. They allow me to sit back and chat... and pick at yummy leftovers. We played at the park and at the beach and Bron went swimming with Michael. It was a relaxing afternoon outside. Before leaving, however, we had to catch a peek at Shoshone Falls. During certain times of the year it rivals Niagara. It's really something to see! And it's right here in our backyard now.

Top: How we clean a baby's hands for dinner--dip him in the lake!

Middle: Bron and Michael swimming. Mom and Greg sitting at the picnic table.

Bottom: Ryan snarfing a gigantic hamburger. Jed's cute sandy bum.

Shoshone Falls

On Sunday half the congregation was absent from church. The realization that it was a holiday weekend was all the motivation Bron needed for a spur-of-the-moment trip to the Nelson Dairy in Ririe, ID. It's still a novelty to be so close to family again. So I quickly packed an overnight bag and we hit the open road. (After we saw a few homes that are for sale. We've been doing a lot of that too lately! It's fun and exciting!)

I think Monday was one of the best days of Jed's little life. Jed and I began our day with a short trip up the road to Rexburg to visit my good friend, Katy. We met at Porter Park to let the boys play while we got caught up on just about EVERYTHING. It was sooo good to see her! I also got to meet baby Gemma for the first time. What a precious little girl! I hadn't planned on letting Jed play at the splash park because it was still a little cool outside, but he was attracted to that water like a magnet is to metal. So we stripped our boys down and let 'em run!

After saying goodbye to Katy, I wasn't quite ready to head back yet. I browsed through one of my favorite stores and then bought Jed and me a chocolate irish cream cupcake and cinnamon-chocolate frappe. What a lunch!

Jake 3 years

Jed 16 months

Back at the dairy on Monday afternoon, we women and the babies went out to see how the boys were doing working in the dust and the heat. They were getting ready to pour cement. The scene was Jed's ideal playground: dirt, rocks, and tractors!!! He stayed out there for hours with Bron. Jed couldn't have been happier! We ended the day with hamburgers on the grill and a meal outside together. Then Jed had to take a bath!

I love family. And I love that farm.

Top: Talon and Bron, Jed and dirt

Middle: Amber takes her turn at the wheel, Call developing some "character" and muscle

Bottom: View from the front porch, Cousins Leah and Jed

Jed's happiness was uncontainable as he waved from the tractor!

What a weekend! And a great one too.

Sunday Morning

2011-09-04T11:02:00.010-04:00

...after a bath.

Jed was so happy to be wild and free in his birthday suit! He made us laugh.

And this sweet little face melts my heart.

A Week in Paradise: Day 5

2011-09-01T00:06:00.022-04:00

Friday August 12, 2011:

Friday was our last day in Hawaii, and it was the best day too. I wish we would’ve done what we did that day sooner! When we went down to the office to pick up our rental car at 8:00AM, it wasn’t there. When we went back at 10:00AM, we drove away in a convertible mustang! We were livin’ large! It was sooo much fun! We sped down the highway with the sun on our faces and the wind in our hair. That day we toured the island on our own time and in our own way.

Proof that we were there with a convertible mustang. Wahoo!

First, we made it to Bellows Beach. It’s the beach where my family used to go camping. It was my brother’s and my favorite beach because of the “big” waves. We spent many days booging boarding there and watching for sea turtles. Upon arriving at Bellows, Bron and I dropped our jaws. There was hardly another soul there! The sand was white and the water pristine. It was no wonder it was our favorite beach all those years ago. I romped in the waves and all I could think of was my brother. I wished he was there with me at that moment. Reliving the sights and feelings of that beach was so much fun for me!

Views of Bellows Beach

Doing a sexy "bay watch" run along the beach. haha

(Apparently I have no shame. My thighs are on the web for the world to see!)

Next, Bron and I went exploring for Kailua beach. That beach really does live up to its reputation. The water was calm and the colors just blew us away. The beach was a dream! We spent a couple of hours there swimming and snorkeling and just simply enjoying ourselves.

Kailua Beach

Going for a swim in paradise!

(P.S. That swimshirt is a redhead's life saver! Literally.)

We continued around the coast of the island and stopped at the world “famous” yellow Shrimp Shack for lunch. It was just a truck on the side of the road, but the food was delectable! We gorged ourselves on coconut shrimp and garlic butter shrimp.

Oceanside Food

We made a few more sight-seeing stops before coming upon giant sea turtles just “hanging loose” on the shore. There were six turtles. They didn’t do much more than lay there and raise a sleepy eyelid at us from time to time, but it was an awesome sight!

An awesome sea turtle just hanging out on the beach

By then it was late afternoon, a perfect time for a short hike. Bron and I walked a half mile to Waimea Falls. We went swimming! Bron loved the fresh water. The pool was sixty feet deep and cool. We played underneath the waterfall and relished in the novelty of being in Hawaii and swimming in a mountainside pool.

Waimea Falls

On the walk back down the trail, we took in the scenic mountainside; there were incredible native trees, strange plants, and beautiful flowers.

I just couldn't get enough of those gorgeous plants and flowers!

We finished our day with snow cones at the beach in Haleiwa. Then we drove off into the sunset (to catch our red-eye flight home). There aren’t any words to describe how fun and beautiful a day it was. It was truly perfect!

Thank you, Bron, for taking me on this incredible adventure! I’m sure we will remember it for many years. I feel so incredibly lucky to have gone on a trip like this and to have you by my side the entire time.

And that folks, concludes our trip to Hawaii. Thanks for reliving the adventure with us!

A Week in Paradise: Day 4

2011-08-31T03:35:00.002-04:00

Thursday August 11, 2011:

Thursday we took a tour of the island via bus that lasted most of the day. Our bus driver’s brain and mouth were full of interesting facts and jokes about the island.

xoxo

Our first stop that morning was at Hanauma Bay. I remembered that place well. That’s where I learned to snorkel. There were so many fish there I could practically reach out and touch them! It’s a spectacular bay in so many ways.

Hanauma Bay. Like a picture on a postcard.

Next, we stopped at the famous blow-hole in the rocks along the shore. I remembered that place too! The rocks and ocean make for an ominous but beautiful part of the island.

The Blow Hole!

Then the bus made a long climb up the mountain to Pali Lookout. That too, was just as I remembered as a child. The wind was so gusty it threatened to blow us away! But the view was awe-inspiring. The combination of greens and blues, jutting mountains and ocean, is out of this world.

Pali Lookout

We also stopped at a Buddhist temple and soaked in its dramatic green setting against a mountain. One of my favorite pit-stops was at a macadamia nut farm. We wandered around to sample all kinds of flavored nuts (more than once!) and had to buy a package to snack on. We also tried cracking raw macadamia nuts. They’re a bit more delicate than I anticipated! Then it was time for lunch at Kualoa Ranch.

Bron cracking some macadamia nuts

flowers + me = happy

Following lunch was a brief stop at Sunset Beach where the water was as calm as a bathtub, but in the winter, it’s where surfers flock to challenge the wild waves. I couldn’t resist wading into that blue-green crystal clear water! (Have I used the words "beautiful", "awesome", "incredible", etc. too much? I'm sorry! I just can't think of any more words to describe what we saw!)

Ahhh! A rogue wave!

Love those palm trees

Last, but not least, was a tour through the Dole Pineapple factory. We purchased a big cone of pineapple ice cream to try. Bron doesn’t like pineapple flavored anything, but I was in love! More ice cream for me! We saw pineapple fields from afar and saw an array of pineapple plants up close and personal. Bron ate fresh papaya from a farm stand and we wandered the premises admiring all the different trees and flowers.

Pineapples and Pineapple Ice Cream

Look at the colorful plants!

This gum tree was neat. Ripping the bark off revealed beautiful colors.

That night we attended a magic show and then meandered down the beach at Waikiki. We held hands and talked and Bron even kissed me right there on the beach in the moonlight. Romantic, right? Yeah, I’ve got an incredible husband! It was a peaceful romantic evening, a perfect end to a really great day.

A Week in Paradise: Day 3

2011-08-30T00:01:00.002-04:00

Wednesday August 10, 2011:

Wednesday morning we arose early to catch a bus to Pearl Harbor. I remember sailing the harbor often as a kid with my dad and family. We had many adventures (and un-adventures too) out there. Oh, the memories that place brought back! We sailed over the sunken ships in the harbor and my dad always made sure to tell us about that fateful day when Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese. My brother and I didn’t get it; we were more engrossed in the fact that there were dead bodies underneath there! Now, however, I have a different understanding and a somber respect for what happened.

Upon arrival at Pearl Harbor, Bron and I toured the museum there and relearned, in detail, the events that led up to the attack. Bron loves history. He was soaking it up like a sponge! Then, at our specified time, we got in line to watch a movie with real footage of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Finally, it was time to take the ferry out to the USS Arizona Memorial. It was too bad there were so many irreverent foreign tourists. I didn’t feel that the memorial was receiving proper respect; this was the grave of thousands of men who died for our country! It’s sobering to make that connection. Memorials like that should remain in place forever to help future generations realize the sacrifices other men and women have made for the blessings they enjoy today in this great country.

The sights of Pearl Harbor. Us on our ferry ride. (Bron is tired of pictures.)

I remember sailing here often!

(Except there was no ugly bridge breaking up the landscape.)

These pictures are for you, Dad!

Aboard the USS Arizona Memorial

After touring Pearl Harbor, Bron and I had the entire afternoon open and free to do whatever our hearts delighted! First, we ate lunch at Cheeseburger in Paradise. A cheeseburger and onion rings never tasted so good!

Eating a Cheeseburger in Paradise

Then we rented a pair of surf boards at the beach and decided to teach ourselves how to surf! Bron got up a good number of times. It made me so happy for him! As for me, however, my arms are apparently weak; I couldn’t get enough speed to catch a wave. So Bron, being the thoughtful husband that he is, gave me a little shove and I popped right up! Again and again! I was elated!

That evening we went shopping in Waikiki for souvenirs. Bron made sure I came home with some quality jewelry that I will use for the rest of my life; it’s a tradition he’s carrying on from our honeymoon. I picked out a beautiful pair of koa (a special kind of wood) earrings and a bracelet. I love them! We also found a Christmas ornament (another tradition we started on our honeymoon) among a few other items that we brought home with us.

Once we tired of shopping, we were hungry! We chose to eat at the Cheesecake Factory for fun. I’ve never eaten there before. It was the most delicious meal! And I just ordered an appetizer that the waitress suggested so that I would have room in my tummy for cheesecake. I don’t care if I gained an extra two pounds from that evening out. That cheesecake was to die for!

Wednesday was a busy, relaxing, and fulfilling (literally) day!

A Week in Paradise: Day 2

2011-08-29T00:01:00.003-04:00

Tuesday August 9, 2011:

We spent Tuesday at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawaii. This is a must-do when visiting Hawaii. I also recommend going with a tour guide. Ours was fabulous. He got us to all of the major shows all afternoon. It was stress-free and fun! The point of the Polynesian Cultural Center is to learn about the traditions of all the different islands in Polynesia. We saw a drum show and were entertained by lots of traditional dancing and singing. We watched a man make fire, open a coconut and make coconut milk, and even saw someone climb high into a coconut tree! My favorite tidbit about the Polynesian culture is that the men cooked, not the women. Cooking was considered very hard work! (And I’d agree if I had to cook so archaically too!) Bron and I even got to participate ourselves in some Polynesian traditions. We played music with sticks, “learned” how to make coconut bread and poi (mashed taro), and even hula danced! There was so much more we could’ve done but just didn’t have the time.

Climbing the coconut tree! And some beautiful flowers I just couldn't get enough of.

The dancing float parade.

My hubby and me at the Polynesian Cultural Center

Bron learning to hula!

Man makes fire!

So after a busy afternoon, we went to another luau there at the Polynesian Cultural Center. We love food, especially food that tastes so good! By chance, I sat across from a guy who went to Hickam Elementary too. Crazy! We had a fun time reminiscing about our childhoods.

Now that's a roasted pig! It looks gross, but is was yummy!

After dinner, Bron and I took a quick shuttle ride over to the Laie LDS Temple. It’s a stunning sight, especially at sunset. Perfectly beautiful. And maybe it’s so beautiful because the temple means so much to us.

Looking a little Hawaiian in front of the Hawaii Temple

Eye Candy

Then it was time for our show called “Ha: The Breath of Life”. It was a story about a baby who grows into a boy and into a man. He marries and has a son of his own. The show was about the eternal nature of our spirits, family, and the circle of life. Better yet, it was entertaining! Eighty percent of the folks working at the Polynesian Cultural Center are students at BYU-Hawaii. Performing at the center helps pay for their tuition and living expenses. They did a spectacular job! The show encompassed all kinds of traditional dancing and even boasted a better fire sword dancer than the night before! Awesome!!!

We went back to the hotel late that night feeling tired, full, and happy.

A Week in Paradise: Day 1

2011-08-28T00:03:00.000-04:00

HAWAII. IS. PARADISE. We had a trip of a lifetime! If only we could’ve stayed longer—if not forever. The weather was warm and always accompanied by a breeze. There were gorgeous big flowers in bloom everywhere. And the water at the beach felt warm but refreshing. The colors were what sent me into shock though; I was surrounded by intense shades of blues and greens from the sky to the sea. It’s the kind of landscape dreams are made of. Yes, this trip was a dream!

First, let me say that it was very difficult for me to leave my baby boy with his Grandma Nelson. I knew he was in good hands and that he’d have fun playing on the farm, but I don’t think I’ve ever spent a night away from Jed. I cried when I left him and I cried when I held him when we got back. There were moments on our vacation when I wished Jed was there with us, thinking of what he would probably enjoy, like his hair blowing in the wind. But there were moments on our vacation when I was really glad he wasn’t there because he would’ve been tired, bored, and fussy.

Grandma Nelson and Jed

I am grateful it was a week with just my handsome man and me. We celebrated Bron finishing his master’s degree! We had no responsibilities. We left our problems on the mainland. Our world was just the two of us in a place near to paradise.

So without further ado, our vacation: which I will split into five days so as not to overwhelm you or my computer. Tune in everyday this week to relive our adventures with us. Plus, the anticipation is more fun this way, don’t you think? (And yes, I had to buy a second overpriced SD card for all these pictures!)

Monday August 8, 2011:

We arrived in Honolulu Sunday evening. We were tired but too excited to sleep. After checking into our hotel room, we wandered the streets and shops of Waikiki and got a bite to eat.

The next morning, we were up with the sun. We were ready to take on the world at 6:00AM! Instead, we waited around for the tourist breakfast we had signed up for. Lame. (I don’t recommend it. I suggest just talking with a tour agent at your hotel and booking all of your sight-seeing adventures that way.) Anyhow, after breakfast and signing up for some tours, Bron and I hopped on the city bus called “the bus” (brilliant name!) to hike Diamond Head.

Note: I lived in Hawaii for three years as a little kid. My dad was stationed at Hickam Air Force Base and that’s where I attended kindergarten through the second grade. Some of my favorite family memories are in Hawaii. On this trip back to Hawaii as an adult, I was curious about what I would remember. I actually remembered quite a bit, like where the giant pink hospital on the hill was and which exit to take to get to my violin lessons at Punahou school, plus much more. In some ways it was like returning “home”. In others, it was an entirely new experience.

Anyhow, our hike up Diamond Head was easy and fun! I remembered the lengthy staircase and tunnels. So cool.

99 steps up and down. Whew! There were a few more stair cases too.

The view from the top of the volcano was breathtaking! We could see two sides of the island surrounded by blue-green crystal clear water.

View of Waikiki from the top of Diamond Head

Later in the afternoon we swam at the crystal clear beach just across from our hotel. It felt great!

That night, we rode a bus to the coast on the west side of Oahu for a dramatic luau dinner. I must mention that these native Hawaiians who entertained us sure knew how to make us feel welcome. They were a lot of fun and made sure to address all of us tourists as “cousins”. At the luau, Bron and I got our picture taken on the beach at sunset, sipped on virgin drinks, and watched our entertainers take a roasted pig from its pit under the ground. Roasted pig like that is delicious! Bron and I stuffed ourselves full of traditional Hawaiian foods that night. Then we sat back, relaxed, and watched some hula dancing! They did all kinds of dances and dressed in all sorts of outfits. I wish I could shake my hips like that! I need to learn! Last, but certainly not least, we had the pleasure of watching fire knife performers! I was afraid the stick of fire would come flying into the audience! But it never did. It was an awesome night!

Lovers in Hawaii

The luau and the roasted pig. Yum!

Incredible hula dancing entertainment

How to Ride the Tube Slide

2011-08-25T16:34:00.004-04:00

... when you're just one year old.

Step 1: Climb the super steep tall steps.

Step 2: Upon reaching the precipice, carefully lift your right leg and put it in the big hole. (This may take several tries.) Then carefully slide your left leg in. Now you should be resting comfortably on your belly.

Step 3: Let go! Don’t forget to scream in wordless delight!

Step 4: Place your feet on the ground and grin with proud satisfaction.

Step 5: Do it again!

About Jed at 16 months:
(I feel like I need to update about the things he does every so often. These cute stages don’t last very long.)

• Jed is training for the Gallon Challenge! He guzzles nearly half a gallon of milk a day. And he guzzles so much at one sitting, he curdles! It comes back up out of his mouth and nose like cottage cheese. It doesn’t seem to bother him at all though.

• When Jed gets excited and laughs, he snorts! It is the cutest thing! However, I’m afraid that he will get beat up for that sort of thing in school.

• When I ask Jed, “Where are your shoes?” he goes to find them. Jed brings me one shoe at a time. Sometimes they don’t even match. It’s darling.

• Jed waves at almost anyone and anything these days. He waves as we leave the house and he waves at the neighbor's dog. It's adorable. The problem is that I'm usually the only other person that sees it; Jed's timing is totally off. He misses his opportunity and waves way after the fact!

• Jed talks all day long, from the minute his feet hit the ground in the morning until he finally nods off to sleep. He jabbers with all the inflections of the English language, but it isn’t English. Sometimes we both become frustrated because Jed knows exactly what he wants and I can’t understand. It’s good to know that this stage won’t last forever. I love hearing him jabber though.

• Jed likes to read books. He sits there and lets me hold him. I’m a lucky mom. He’s a cuddly kid, sometimes. I love it when he lays his head on my shoulder.

• Jed LOVES being outside. He loves sitting in his stroller with one foot hanging over the edge. It looks so comfortable. He also loves going on bike rides and he loves playing at the park.

• Whenever I get on the floor to do some sit-ups or push-ups, it’s an open invitation to wrestle! I don’t get much muscle toning done. Oh well. Wrestling is much more fun.

• One of Jed's favorite things to do around the house is flip head first off the couch. It's best seen in person, but these pictures explain his stunt pretty well!

That’s my boy! You make me smile every day! I love you so much, Jed!

The Move

2011-08-06T02:47:00.003-04:00

These last two weeks have been a crazy blur of events. I left our home in New York with Jed on July 21st. We landed in Salt Lake and immediately set our sights on Zion's National Park for a family reunion. It was a blast! Then we hitched a ride with my mom and brothers to Meridian, ID where we spent a week playing at the parks and eating delicious food. I also had the awful task of rental shopping.

My number one priority upon arrival in Idaho was to find our little family of three a place to live. I hit the freeway at 80 mph towards Twin Falls; a two hour drive from my mother's house. Speeding along, it felt so good to be home! Idaho may look dry and desolate to folks out east, but it's beautiful to me. Idaho is wide open spaces. It's gold and green fields as far as the eye can see with tall mountains standing guard in the distance. It's irrigation ditches, pivots, and sprinklers. It's giant blue skies and puffy white clouds. It's trucks and cowboys and everything simple and everything new. Idaho is home and it feels really great to be back!

Because Bron will officially begin his dairy consulting job August 15th, we will be living where the cows are: pretty much in the middle of the state in the middle of nowhere. I explored lots of dead towns that looked like nobody would notice if they burned to the ground. I also explored Twin Falls. As soon as I crossed the bridge over the deep gorge I was hooked. This town is known as the heart of the magic valley. It's small, but it's growing and has everything a person could ever need. The town boasts a brand new hospital, a four year college, a mall, an LDS temple, and many restaurants and things to do on the weekends. I ran around town like a chicken with my head cut off. (It was the worst day of Jed's life, I'm sure of it. He screamed at me.) I saw the scary, run-down parts of town with the cheap deals on rental homes. I also saw the ritzy parts of town and drove past the rentals that were well out of our price range. I finally settled on a cute two bedroom two bathroom upstairs apartment in a quiet neighborhood across from an elementary school. It just felt right, and more importantly, for the right price. The apartment has big windows that let in the sunlight. It also comes with all the amenities, including a washer, dryer, and dishwasher. As I opened the door to the dishwasher and slid a knife into its spot, I exclaimed to Bron, "Having a dishwasher is like, MAGICAL! I am sooo excited!"

So while I shopped and stressed over a place to live, Bron and his brother, Talon, embarked on their trek out west in a gutless Budget truck packed to the brim. Bron is a driving maniac. He drove every mile. I'm glad he had his brother there to help him though. That drive definitely can't be done alone and I'm grateful Amber lent her husband to us for a week. The two brothers stopped in Palmyra. They also saw beautiful horse farms in Kentucky. But the crowning moment of the trip was when two tires blew out on the truck in the middle of Kansas. They waited and waited on the side of the road for help. It grew dark. They turned on the emergency lights to the truck and used them until the battery ran dry. Then they turned on the lights to the car on the trailer and used them until the battery went dead again. Finally, help arrived hours later and they were on their way. I'm glad I wasn't there. Amazingly, Bron and Talon still made it to Twin Falls exactly when they planned.

The entire Nelson family was there to help unpack the truck last Wednesday. It's awesome to have a family chuck full of boys! Thankfully, nothing seems to be broken or ruined from the move except for Bron's throne, the recliner, but with the right help, I think it's fixable. We spent two days without hot water until the gas was turned on. Jed got a bath via boiling pots of water. Bron and I just suffered through quick cold rinses in the shower. I put the entire kitchen together during one of Jed's naps and we've spent the last two days exploring our new town. The mess seemed overwhelming at first, but I see the potential. This is going to be our new home for a while. I think it's going to feel good.

We left our apartment in shambles to spend this weekend with Bron's family in Ririe, ID. It is so amazing to think that they are just a three hours' drive away! We are far enough from family to be on our own, but close enough to enjoy time with them.

THIS MOVE IS THE BEST THING EVER! I feel it in my bones.

Next: A sweetheart's vacation to HAWAII!!! I am busting at the seems!

Little Red Car

2011-07-30T03:00:00.001-04:00

Beep! Beep! Look at those black feet!

Jed's new loves this week: riding this little red car and playing with his uncles.

Smith Family Reunion 2011

2011-07-25T20:35:00.009-04:00

Zion's National Park

It’s weird to think that our life in New York is a memory now. Whenever I think of home, I catch myself thinking of Miner Farm and our duplex there. I miss it already! I guess “home” will be a relative word for now until we find a place to rent, move in, and start our new lives. I’m looking forward to it. However much I miss New York, it feels great to be back among family and the familiar dry mountainous terrain.

Jed was a champ on our long plane ride from JFK to Salt Lake City. He slept the entire 4 ½ hours! My rear-end was sore and my left arm tingled from holding Jed’s heavy head, but I didn’t care. My baby was peacefully asleep! I actually enjoyed cuddling him.

Jed’s routine is in total upheaval. The only thing familiar in his life right now are a few of his belongings and me. (We are missing Bron for two whole weeks!) Jed is doing all right though. Jed is a happy good-natured kid. However, he screams and screams when I put him down to sleep in the pack ‘n play my mom bought for him. Maybe he will become accustomed to it in a few more nights. But until then, we’ve developed sort of a bad habit. I take Jed to bed with me and lay down with him. He snuggles his face right up next to mine. He plays with my nose and mouth and laughs. Then he starts to make his tired moaning sound, strokes my hair, and finally drifts off to sleep. It takes less than five or ten minutes. That’s when I scoop him up and put him in his own bed where he sleeps peacefully all night long. For some reason, I love it.

View from our hotel

The incredible red rock inside Zion's.

You know you want to visit now too.

Our first few days out west have been a blast! We made it back just in time for the annual Smith Family Reunion. This year it was held in Zion’s National Park in southern Utah. We had a family reunion there eleven years ago in the summer of 2000. Being there brought back so many fun memories! We cousins have all grown up since then and so much has changed! It’s kind of neat that I now get to take my son to the reunion: another generation.

We stayed in a hotel just outside the park and took the bus up into the canyon. After dinner our first evening there, we all went on a “short hike” that turned into a slight fiasco when the sun set behind the steep cliffs leaving us stumbling in the dark. We always have to have a disaster at a family reunion. It’s a rule. Thankfully, this year it was minor. (It doesn't hold a candle to flipping a jeep, getting lost in the desert for hours, or having a brush with the law!) We all made it out without any incidence.

Ready for our hike! Jed was still suffering from jet lag.

Hiking along

My cousin Rachel (36 weeks pregnant) with Grady (2 yrs)

Ty and Grady

Water, greenery, and red rock = pretty!

The next morning most of us headed into Zion’s to hike the Narrows: a trek up a river between two towering walls of rock. Amid the sweltering dry heat, the freezing water feels amazingly refreshing! It is a super fun hike! And I was the equivalent of Amazon Woman—minus the snakes and testosterone—because I carried Jed on my back all day! We even waded through chest deep water together. Jed didn’t make a peep. In fact, he loved the ride! Jed talked to me and pointed the way to go. What a stud.

And did I mention the animals? There were wild animals that weren't scared of people at all. We even yelled at them. The deer didn't blink. And the squirrels walked on their hind legs inches from my legs begging for food. It was cute but a little scary because all I could think of were their tiny nails and flesh wounds.

The Narrows

Hiking the Narrows!

Some of the gang: Ty, Tyson, Devin, Emily, Megan, Kathleen, Jessie (me), and Jed

I totally spaced it and didn't wear the right attire, but it was fun anyway.

The speedy cute thangs, Kathleen and Megan

The water looks swifter than it really was

My little brother, Michael, taking on the rapids in his Indiana Jones hat

That night we celebrated my Aunt Becky’s 50th birthday. My Aunt Mari reserved a room outside for us at a restaurant where we gorged ourselves on an Italian all-you-can-eat buffet. When everyone was finished, we gathered the chairs around for a short family meeting that turned into chatting and kids playing on the floor for a few more hours. (By the way, I have no idea how Jed found TWO packets of honey. What a sticky mess!) It was the perfect gathering place for us all and a great end to a fun weekend.

Our family loooves to eat! And that's an understatement.

Grandma, Aunt Becky, Mom

My cousin, Necia, with the cutest rolly-poliest baby boy, Traejan (6 months)

Family Party!

Trying on Great-Grandma's old jewelry. Yes, even some of the boys! We all look so great, it makes me speachless! haha

I love my family and I love our reunions. I feel so lucky that I have so many awesome memories with my cousins and aunts and uncles. And I am glad that we will be carrying on the tradition, at least for a few more years. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa! We love you!

The Last...

2011-07-20T21:51:00.001-04:00

Our last days here in New York have arrived. I have gone on my last run, ridden my bike around the lake for the last time, and walked around the farm one last time. We’ve also filled every day with friends, picnic parties, and our favorite activities. I think we have made the most of our last days here.

One night this week Bron and I took Jed to the beach at Point au Roche. We had fun as a family playing in the water and digging holes in the sand. It was a picture perfect evening.

Saturday was the annual Miner Institute Summer Picnic Party at the park. There was catered barbeque food, a bouncy house, water balloons, and lots of yard games including volleyball and corn hole. It was a fun afternoon with everyone.

We love being parents.

Sunday was our very last day in the Plattsburgh branch at church. Hooray! Bron and I were grinning from ear to ear. It was kind of weird to hear the phrase, “Have a good life!” But it was said by folks who really meant it and I appreciate that. I had only one moment of weakness when I said goodbye to Gina. I’m glad she and her family made a hasty exit because I think I might have cried. It’s sad to think I might not ever see her again; she’s been such an awesome friend.

Another night we got together with some of our favorite people here—Anna, Roxanne, and Natasha (Bron jokes that we are his harem)—for kabobs on the grill and ice cream at Creamies. Against better judgment, Jed got his very own ice cream cone. Before I knew it, Jed was slipping across the bench on ice cream. So I let him run around and he covered himself in chocolate stickiness and gravel. Jed had the dirtiest bath water I’ve seen thus far in his life. But he was so cute and happy! After Jed went to bed, the girls came over and we just relaxed in the living room and chatted for a few hours. We are really going to miss them!

Finally, we went to an official farewell party for Bron and a PhD graduate. Great food, a few games of volleyball, and a happy little boy who played with the big kids’ tractors, made for a wonderful evening out. The community here at Miner Institute is one-of-a-kind. I feel privileged to have been a part of it!

So New York, I guess this is good-bye. Our two years here have flown by in a blink of an eye, and yet, so much has happened too. Our time here has been both a challenge and an adventure. We have learned and grown in ways I never would have dreamed for us. We have made some incredible memories too. I am glad that we can claim a little bit of you, from the autumn foliage to Jedediah’s birthplace. Some of the people we have crossed paths with will always hold a special place in our hearts. I feel blessed to know them. I don’t know if we will ever be back, New York. The thought of a final ending here makes me sad, but I am also very excited to begin our new life.

Farewell, New York! I’ll be looking in the rear-view mirror as we drive away, but I’ll be facing forward too.

My Busy Boy

2011-07-18T21:32:00.003-04:00

Jed has finally reached a stage that can be challenging to both Bron and me. Our boy is in a state of perpetual motion. I swear my child is secretly an octopus bent on destroying everything in his path. He is so fast! And he is EVERYWHERE! If there is one thing in the room he is not supposed to touch, he wants it. And whatever Jed touches gets thrown, torn, dropped, eaten, dragged, or a combination. Jed has quite the rigorous schedule. My only respite from his chaos of motion and mess is when he suddenly lays still enough to sleep. However, when I sneak into his bedroom to peak at my sleeping baby, my heart melts. There is something precious about a sleeping child.

Jed's new toy: my alarm. Jed knows how to turn the music on and off! Smart kid.

(Fact: I've had that alarm since I was like twelve. Hence, the stickers.)

But it’s really not the motion or mess that challenges me. It’s that one minute Jed is independent and happy to be exploring the world on his own and the next he’s desperately clinging to my knees in insecurity. The constant change is giving me whip-lash. He’s also not quite old enough to know his boundaries. I must always keep a watchful eye or else he might fall off the porch steps, play in the garbage, or wander too close to the hot grill. Jed has also suddenly developed an opinion. If something isn’t going his way, he throws a fit. Sometimes he hurls himself onto the ground and cries. Other times he just whines. I do my best to help him or distract him, but he can’t always have what he wants. I don’t think it’s good for my child to always get what he wants. Disappointment is a part of life. For instance, we were standing in the check-out line at the grocery store when Jed finally spied the bag of grapes in the cart. He REALLY wanted them and let the entire store know it! I told him “No. You have to wait until I buy them.” Of course he didn’t understand, but I wasn’t budging on this issue. Grapes are bought by the pound and if he ate any grapes the bag would no longer weigh the same. These outbursts are making it more difficult to socialize in public at church or at summer picnic parties. Listening to him whine grates on my nerves. I am learning patience. Watching, holding, and distracting a small child is a labor of love but I am EXHAUSTED!

These next few weeks could be rough.

Bron's Trip to New Orleans

2011-07-15T23:13:00.003-04:00

The paddle boat cruise Bron went on in New Orleans

Bron just spent the week at a global dairy science conference in New Orleans. He sat in on seminars regarding the latest advances in the dairy industry and even presented two posters about his thesis. But we all know that these meetings are really an excuse for smart people to eat fabulous food and party!

The sights around New Orleans

Bron had a blast in New Orleans. He came home with a beautiful white sundress for me, some Bubba Gump Shrimp hats, and lots of new adventure stories. It sounds like New Orleans is a cultural experience that one must undertake at least once in a lifetime. Bron went on an evening paddle boat river cruise, explored the French Quarter, and ate lots of great food including oysters, alligator sausage, crawfish, catfish, pralines, and other southern delectables. Bron came home raving about a dueling piano bar called Pat O’Brien’s. He stayed till the wee hours of the morning listening to the piano band play any song ever composed. They were exceptionally talented!

But I think Bron’s greatest New Orleans adventure was when he, his supervisor, and her son drove forty miles outside the city to go on an airboat swamp tour! He didn’t even wear a life vest. However, I think drowning was the least of his worries. The crowning moment of the tour was when he came face to face with a twelve foot alligator named Big Al. What an adrenaline rush! My husband could’ve been lunch! I am grateful he came home alive. And I’m glad he had a great time too.

But I'm more glad he is home again. I missed my man!

The totally insane airboat swamp tour

You know, just your typical everyday five foot chomper. No biggie?!?

That land isn't really land. It's floating mud!

Lily pads as far as the eye can see! This would be more pretty if it weren't infested with alligators and other deadly things, don't you think?

The monster of a prehistoric beast

Ahhh! I can't believe the alligator is climbing into the boat!

Me Riding a Horse

2011-07-12T10:01:00.000-04:00

Riding Redgy

My friend Natasha took me horseback riding last Saturday! I think I could totally become a horse girl after that experience. It was so much fun! We went out to the ring where Natasha gave me a lesson in real horseback riding. I now have a whole new respect for how much practice and muscle it takes to ride correctly! (I need a cushier rear-end!)

I got to ride Redgy, a well-trained gelding who is slightly lazy but has the smoothest gait on the farm. The Morgan horses here at Miner Institute are trained in the English style. Just a slight pull or small command can change the horse’s direction. Poor Redgy; he had to put up with me, a girl who had no idea what she was doing! We did some funny looking circles around the ring. After a while, however, I think we began to feel a little more comfortable with each other. Redgy walked, jogged, and even loped! Yes, I went fast! For a few seconds, at least. I’m so proud of myself. I want to do it again!

Thanks Natasha for letting me come play!

Love that barn

Walking...jogging...

loping!!!

Look at that mane swish!

Commencement

2011-07-09T12:38:00.004-04:00

Best Buds Jed and Des

We’ve been celebrating summer by going to the beach on Lake Champlain with friends. My friend Gina has five little “monkeys”. Her youngest is Desmond. He’s two. Jed and Des have known each other since, well, Jed was born. They look for each other, point, and grin. It’s really cute; they get so excited! Jed and Des don’t actually play together, just alongside one another. But they really like each other nonetheless.

This is both a beginning and an end.

I am packing all of our belongings away into boxes in preparation for our big move out west in less than two weeks. I hate packing. It’s miserable and overwhelming work. I am having a hard time motivating myself to buckle down and do it. The sunshine outside is calling to me; it wants me to ride my bike or go to the beach, do anything but stay cooped up inside and waste its beautiful rays. I can’t believe the time to move is finally here. It still doesn’t feel real. How can my routine here just suddenly end? But it will. I will wake up one morning, finish packing, say some good-byes, and walk onto an airplane with Jed on my hip. (Bron will follow a week later with his brother and a truck packed full of our belongings.) The thought of saying a final good-bye to this richly green place and all our friends makes me sad. I know I am going to bawl my eyes out. This is one of those times when you just know that this moment—that this certain set of people and the way things are right now—can never be the same ever again. We’ve been lucky enough to be a part of this unique community here at Miner Institute. I’m desperately going to miss it.

However, we’ve been looking forward to this day for a long time now. The year ahead of us holds lots of new stresses, changes, and adjustments. But it’s exciting!

Playing in the sand brings back so many memories of my own childhood. My brother and I used to dig big holes and bury one another. We also built elaborate castle keeps with walls and mountains. It’s fun to teach Jed how to play in the sand.

Sometimes I can’t believe this is my life. When I start counting my blessings, my mental jaw drops and I stand in awe. I am a wife to a man I love and he loves me. Bron is about to begin a great job in the area we dreamed about settling down in because it’s home; it’s near family and all that is beautiful and familiar to us. It seems that everything our family needs is procured. We will buy a house this year. The thought makes me giddy and scared. My blessings also include being a mother to a cute little boy. I get to stay at home with him and play all day long, every day. It’s work, but it’s the best job in the world! I am well educated. I am talented. I am well traveled. By the way, we are going to HAWAII in August to celebrate Bron’s big accomplishment!!! I am down-right spoiled! And sooo excited! At first glance, it seems that I have everything; that my life is perfect. And it truly feels that way! But that’s exactly what terrifies me.

I feel like I’m just waiting for the other shoe to drop. Everything in life has its opposite: good and bad, light and dark, joy and sorrow. Because everything is going so well right now, I feel like something has to go unexpectedly wrong. But maybe the stresses and adjustments to our new life will be enough this year to balance out this good streak. Or maybe this is our “pay day” after surviving two years here. Or maybe things are simply just good right now and I ought to soak up every moment of it and not spend an ounce of energy worrying about the future and things I can’t control; just worry about how many more boxes I will need to finish packing. Yes, I think I will concentrate on the good things that are going on right now and leave the worrying to someone else. Life will always have its up and downs, but the downs seem to work themselves out most of the time. So no worries, right?

Isabel made a Twilight comparison regarding Jed and Desmond. Jed is blindingly white like a vampire. Des could be a werewolf. Haha!

We are ending a good thing here in New York. It’s been a blessing, a challenge, and an adventure. There is no doubt that I will miss some incredible friends and our lifestyle here. But we are beginning a new venture out west. We are about to embark on the journey of making our dreams a reality. Wish us luck! It’s bitter sweet, but so thrilling too!

Life's a beach!

Our Independence Day Weekend

2011-07-06T09:44:00.012-04:00

Jed at the strawberry patch

Summer is in full swing! We had heat on the grill and sunshine all weekend long. Even better, Bron had the entire weekend off! No work, no thesis, no stress. It was wonderful! The only bad news was that I had to feed calves every night. Fortunately, we could work around that. We had a busy but relaxing weekend. I wish we could get lots more of those!

We started gearing up for the fourth of July last Wednesday evening when we went strawberry picking at Rulf’s Orchard. This is my third strawberry season here and Rulf’s never disappoints. The strawberries were deep red, juicy, and just begging to be eaten! Bron picked more than a flat in less than half an hour. I mostly kept an eye on Jed as he stomped through the bushes and stuffed his fists and mouth full strawberries. It was fun!

And because we are moving so soon, I’m not making jam this year. Instead, we’ve been feasting on all kinds of strawberry desserts, including this strawberry pie! Yummm!

Delicious home-made strawberry pie! (If I do say so myself.)

We couldn’t let a sunny day go to waste, so on Saturday we hiked Cascade Mountain with a couple of friends. It’s one of the high peaks of the Adirondacks. Bron and I hiked it last year when Jed was just seven weeks old. I remember it being a lot tougher of a hike—maybe because I just had a baby and was out of shape. This time around it was still a workout but very enjoyable. I totally underestimated how much I would sweat! I think Bron had the toughest workout though. Jed enjoyed a free ride up the mountain on Bron’s back. I made sure Jed thanked his dad by dressing appropriately: he wore his “I love Dad” t-shirt. In the end, our physical exertions were entirely worth the effort when we reached the top and saw the incredible view! Thanks for coming with us and making it a memorable day, Natasha and Jordi!

The climb to the top

View from the top of Cascade Mountain. Breathtakingly green!

Jordi and Natasha at the top

To commemorate his trip to the top of the mountain, Jed decided to lick a rock.

Relaxing and eating some lunch

Family photo!

Hooray! Jump for joy! We did it!!!

On Sunday evening we headed up to Rouses Point for a hometown feeling Independence Day celebration. We arrived just in time to see the end of the parade. Anyone who is anything was in the parade, including the recycling man. It was just a lot of fun to see. Jed’s eyes were glued to the commotion in the street and his mouth hung open.

Eating a sucker and watching the parade atop Dad's shoulders

A view of Rouses Point, NY

After the parade we bought some ice cream and walked along the lakeshore to find a place to watch the fireworks. It was a short but sweet performance. Jed didn’t seem to mind the loud noises and enjoyed watching the sky light up! It was a perfect summer evening. (We even beat the ominous black storm could headed our way.)

Wind! Ahhhh!

This picture makes me laugh.

A great family photo on Lake Champlain

The girls: Natasha, Roxanne, Anna, Jessie (me)

The fireworks! (It's called significant camera shake. haha)

Independence Day was spent at a church barbeque at Macomb State Park. We ate and talked and played in kayaks at the lake. While sitting at the picnic table my friend Gina looked around and asked with a hint of sarcasm, “You don’t really want to leave all this, do you?”

“Gina, all the cool people are sitting at this table.”

“Yeah. You’re right.” And we both snickered.

There are a handful of families in our branch that we've made meaningful friendships with. I am really going to miss teasing and talking with Gina in the nursery while our boys play side by side during church and Jed snoops through her purse for better tasting treats. I feel so lucky to have Gina (and all you other cool people know who you are) as a friend. As for many of the other members of our tiny branch? Well, let's just say that our time here has been a heap of misadventures that I will just have to tell you about in person.

After feeding calves in record time that evening, we got together with Anna, Roxanne, Natasha, and Jordi for some teriyaki chicken on the grill and other scrumptious foods. It was the most delicious grill-out I’ve been to in a long time! We stuffed ourselves silly. We are really going to miss you guys!!!

A barbeque with friends at home

Also of note, a busy weekend and teething accompanied with a fever caught up with Jed fast. Poor little guy didn't feel well. Here he’s sacked out on the couch in front of the big fan because it was sticky and warm.

My sweet sleeping boy

It was a perfect all-American weekend. God bless America!

P.S.

My sister Lauren (and her husband Don too, of course) had a baby!!!

Meet Carter Wade Thompson

Born June 29, 2011

8 lbs. 10 oz. and 20.5 inches

I am such a proud aunt! He is so cute I could just swallow him whole. I am excited for my sister to experience all the joys of motherhood too!

(And yes, I had permission from my talented cousin to post this picture.)

Cool Dude

2011-07-01T00:04:00.017-04:00

I know I'm biased, but I totally think Jed belongs in a baby GQ magazine.

Happy 4th of July Weekend!

Jed is fourteen months old and growing fast! Over the last few weeks he seems to have morphed from a baby into a little boy. He walks and jabbers and plays. If he is awake, he is moving! He makes us laugh! And he makes us so proud. I really like the little boy my baby is becoming and I am genuinely enjoying this stage of Jed’s development. I love seeing the world through Jed’s eyes. He requires oodles of energy to keep up with, but he is so much fun to be around! This morning, Bron brought Jed to me while I was still in bed. Jed wrapped his arms around my neck and gave me a long bear hug. That made my whole day!

Here are some stats to remember my fourteen month old by:
(Seriously folks, you don't have to read this because it's all for me!)

• Jed started walking one day during the first part of June (about 13 months old) and has never stopped since.
• Jed loves anything to do with animals, especially cows, horses, and dogs. Hmm… I wonder why? Just kidding. We live on a farm! Jed likes trucks and tractors too.
• Whenever he sees a dog, Jed starts pointing and squealing. He loooves dogs. They are a novelty because we don’t see them as often as other animals.
• Jed can wave!!! Finally. It's super cute. He usually waves good-bye after we've left, but he waves nonetheless.
• It’s become obvious that Jed has my eyes and his dad’s barrel chest. His hair has also turned blond this summer.
• Jed is a ham. He likes to be the center of attention. When we approach a big group he announces his presence with some loud vocals and some excited arm and leg movements. He also usually knows when to show off that heart melting grin! Jed is such a good natured kid!
• Jed jabbers jabbers jabbers, smiles, jabbers, points, jabbers jabbers grins. All day long. I love it. I just wish I knew what he was saying!
• Jed’s vocabulary is quickly expanding. Some of his favorite words are “dog,” “moo,” “dad,” and “mama”. And even if “mmi” isn’t a real word, I’m going to count it because I know he wants milk. He’ll get it one day. In the mean time, I’m enjoying what little communication we have going already. It’s awesome.
• If it's too big or heavy to carry, Jed drags it. Watching him waddle and simultaneously drag something around is hilarious!
• Jed likes anything soft, especially a certain blanket and a fat stuffed monkey and dog.
• Jed is EXTREMELY attached… to ME! I love it and I hate it. I love being the one important person in his life that can fix any problem with a simple hug or smile, but I dislike how much he whines when I have to put him down or leave his side for a few minutes to get something done. Oh well. I suppose it’s just part of the territory of being a mother.
• When Jed is done with his meal, he flings food all over the floor. I don’t think I’m going to win that battle any time soon.
• I am spoiled; Jed sleeps in! He goes to bed around 8:30PM and doesn’t get up until around 8:00AM the next morning (give or take a half hour). Bliss!
• His nap time has suddenly changed from 10:30AM to something later (exact time still being determined) and he sleeps a solid 2-3 hours. I love having such a great sleeper!
• Jed is beginning to share and help! He offers his mushy half-chewed pieces of toast to me and likes to help put clothes in the dryer and shut the door.
• Jed is a cuddle bug. (He knows how to manipulate his mama!) Jed puts his head on my shoulder and will let me hold him. I often pat his back. And he pats mine! Melts my heart!
• I think I can safely say that grapes are Jed’s favorite food. (He takes after his daddy in that way.) Jed can eat six grapes in 30 seconds! Really. We timed him.

That’s my boy! We really like being his parents and wouldn’t trade Jed for anything. Stay cool, Jed.

Better Mother

2011-06-28T22:02:00.004-04:00

That little face is trouble!

Jed really likes these bright balls, so we went to the tennis court one afternoon.

Have you ever spent the entire day with your child but felt like you were never really there? Today I went through the motions of caring for Jed: I fed him, changed him, read him some books, and went for a walk. As evening approached, I realized I had never really connected with my son all day long. Even when we played together, my mind wandered. I kept thinking of the list of things that needed to be done, something I read, thought about a friend, or what’s going on this weekend. I had a hard time clearing my mind and concentrating solely on my little boy.

So tonight, after I washed the suds from his hair in the bathtub, I made it a point to really play with Jed; to interact, to make him laugh and see his eyes light up, to balance that silly plastic cow on the faucet before making it splash into the water over and over again because I want my son to know—that for at least ten minutes today—there was nothing more important in my world than him.

More than anything, I want to be a good mother. No, I want to be a great mother. I want to create moments, that though they may be forgotten in the stream of everyday life, the feelings of love still linger. My family is my world and I want them to know that. It’s dumb to let the clutter of everyday living interfere. So from now on, my goal is to drop what I think may be more important at the moment, clear my head, and connect with my child at least once a day. I hope it becomes a habit, a part of who I am. My family is my priority, not the dishes or my pictures or this blog. Bron and Jed are the center of my world and I ought to treat them as such. Perhaps Jed will become a better man if he has a mother who lights up when he enters the room and a mother who truly listens to him and knows him.

But really, it doesn’t matter how Jed “turns out”; I will love him regardless. I just think the joy and satisfaction I feel from truly being with the people I love will be more than worth any effort.

Tonight, Jed hugged me. He laid his head on my shoulder and let me just hold him. I patted his back. He patted mine. Those are the moments I want to wrap up and save forever.

"Jed, What Does a Cow Say?"

2011-06-26T17:16:00.001-04:00

"Moo!"

Jed purses his lips and tries to say it. I just can't get enough of this face.

The Graduate

2011-06-22T18:48:00.000-04:00

The New Master of Dairy Nutrition

Bron did it! He defended his thesis and PASSED! Aside from a few details, Bron is officially done with his Masters Degree! Wahoo!!!

Yesterday, as I sat there watching Bron present, I felt overwhelmingly proud of my man. This entire two year journey has been a labor of work, sweat, and even a few frustrated tears. But I think the rewards are going to be totally worth his efforts. Bron is so smart! He has an awesome job lined up. This degree has opened up so many new opportunities for him. It feels like the world is at his feet.

Bron was grilled by his advisors for a couple more hours after his presentation. When Bron walked through the door of the overpriced restaurant on Church Street, I immediately knew he had passed. I could see it in his face and body, a weight had literally been lifted. The food tasted delicious!

So last night, instead of working till the wee hours of the morning, Bron relaxed in front of the television and talked with an old friend on the phone. I think we’re all going to enjoy a little less stress in his life.

Bron, I am so incredibly proud of the man, husband, and father you are! You are more than I ever dreamed of marrying. Your potential is limitless; I can see it. I love you!

P.S. I left Jed with a pair of babysitters yesterday. It was the first time I’d left him all afternoon. It was liberating, but I missed my little man! By the way, my babysitters were awesome. I came home to a sleeping baby and a clean house!

Let's Hear it for Dad!

2011-06-19T00:02:00.002-04:00

My dad with little me and my brother, Joey

I know my dad beats himself up with regrets and about his shortcomings—like being horrible at remembering birthdays—but I couldn’t love him more! Much of who I am today is because of this man.

My dad calls me Jessie Baby. I think he would still hold my hand if I would let him. When I was little, I thought every man in camouflage uniform was my dad. Nothing held a candle to my dad! He did many things that dads are supposed to do, like teaching me how to throw a baseball so I never had to embarrass myself at recess in elementary school. He also taught me how to ride a bike. One of my favorite childhood memories are of our family bike rides every Sunday afternoon around Pearl Harbor. We stopped to chat with the fishermen on the pier, stick our fingers in sea urchins, and play at the park.

We’ve had a lot of adventures like that together because, well, that’s just who my dad is: outgoing and adventurous. He has many hobbies and interests that keep him interesting. I’ve been to countless places across the United States because of him. I don’t know how many old military forts I’ve visited or how many air shows I’ve seen, but most of them were pretty cool. I remember when he was learning to sail; he took my brother and me out with him in these tiny eight foot sailboats and we almost always tipped and went swimming in the ocean! My dad loves old cars, motorcycles, airplanes, and boats. He built a plane once or twice. And that time he tried to cruise “the berg” (his 98 foot yacht) from Victoria, Canada down the west coast will go down in history! He is pretty much the epitome of a man’s man. But as I've grown up, I've come to realize that he is much more than that. He is a sensitive and caring man too! I know he loves me very much.

My dad has taught me what it means to work and to take responsibility for my own actions. He has taught me how to listen and communicate by example. I appreciate that we can have open, honest conversations about anything—nothing is taboo! It has helped me grow and be confident that my opinions are valid too. On top of all that, my dad has shown and continutes to show me how to live my dreams; how to dream a dream and just go for it! Life isn’t perfect. And it isn’t the destination that counts; it’s the adventure in the journey.

So thanks, Dad, for a wonderful childhood and memories that will live on forever. I love you and am so grateful to have you for a dad!

Jed and his Daddy

And it wouldn’t be Father’s Day if I didn’t honor the father who lives under my same roof. There is so much I could say about how awesome a daddy Bron is to Jed; about how hard he works, about how his instincts are often right on, about how well he takes care of Jed in the evenings when I’m working, and about how fun it is to have someone to share the joys of being a parent with, but I just can’t seem to find the right words.

Bron truly enjoys being a parent. He is so good at it that he sometimes makes me a little jealous. Jed loves his dad tremendously because when Bron comes home, he gets on the floor and plays! Jed laughs and chases and wrestles him. I can only see these moments getting better and better! Bron helps make us a complete happy family, and that’s what matters most.

I love you, my handsome man!