Adventures with Anders & Adeline

Silly Backwards Day- Cheese!

2012-02-01T19:19:00.000-08:00

A&A go to Sonshine School at our church 2 days a week. On this particular day the kids got to dress "backwards" and be silly. Anders had a good laugh and a good time getting ready.

Jeff's Birthday

2012-02-01T19:14:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Jeff on his birthday. Fun, family and ice cream! Adeline especially LOVED the ice cream.

Anders and his guitar

2012-01-22T17:53:00.000-08:00

Our little guitar playing man....I love you always. My sweet boy!

Tuckered Out

2012-01-21T19:58:00.000-08:00

Some days Adeline fights taking a nap...on those days you may find her asleep like this, where in the midst of of it all her eyelids become just too heavy to keep open.

My Sweet Adeline

2012-01-19T18:31:00.000-08:00

My baby girl is now 16 months-old. I can't believe it! She is growing and changing so fast. She is a busy little girl who loves to give big open mouth kisses, read books, love on her baby doll and at the same time charge after her brother and race cars. She recently had her 15 month well visit (I'm a little behind in blogging) where she weighed 18lbs 10oz (<3%), measured 31in height (75%), and her head was 18in around (55%). She is our little peanut, who according to her teachers at Sonshine School, she is "small but mighty"- true description. She is our "sweet Adeline"....one of my patients recently showed me some great videos with the barbershop song "Sweet Adeline"(here is one of them). So fun! We love our little girl.

Merry Christmas 2011

2012-01-18T11:58:00.000-08:00

Christmas is such a beautiful time of year! I love to look at all the christmas lights. Being in Texas we rarely have a white snowy Christmas....so instead we hang white lights. Jeff did a great job with the lights this year.

This year was especially fun with Anders being at the age where there is such excitement opening gifts and celebrating birthdays.

Here are the grandchildren blowing out candles and singing Happy Birthday Jesus. Anders can't wait until the next birthday and will often ask, "whose birthday is next?".

Grandpa Larson has a the gift of story telling. He kept all the kids attention telling stories, while there dinner preparations were being made.

Abby and Adeline, who are just 6 weeks apart, were all dressed up! So cute.

Our attempt for a family christmas photo......the majority were like the later.

The Monday after christmas we all hit the ice and went ice-skating. Anders still talks about it and loves to watch this video over and over. Adeline cheered everyone on from the sidelines.

Grandma Hempy- Merry Christmas Hats

2011-12-09T20:30:00.000-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving in Iowa with my mom, dad, aunts, uncles and cousins. I love this time of year and am so thankful and reminded of our many blessings. It was especially fun to catch up with friends and family, many of whom we may just see once a year. I just need to remember to pack my camera next year...the iphone is great but just not the same.

Christmas came early this year at the Hempy house, with Grandma Hempy giving all the "grown-up" girls hats and gloves.

My Second Born

2011-12-09T20:10:00.000-08:00

Jeff went into Anders's room this past week to find Adeline, 14 months, on the top bunk. Our little monkey had climbed up the ladder, and was so very pleased with herself to have climbed up to the top bunk just like her brother. Needless to say the ladder is now tucked safely away in the garage.

Happy Halloween

2011-11-15T20:56:00.000-08:00

Trick or treat with our little alligator and kitty cat. My little alligator loved Halloween. Playing dress up and free candy...what kid doesn't like it? My little alligator, who has a sweet tooth just like his mama, didn't just like it...he LOVED it!

Fall is here....

2011-10-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

Nana and Papa

2011-10-08T20:13:00.000-07:00

My parents came from Iowa to help Adeline celebrate. So nice to have them here.

Happy Birthday Adeline

2011-10-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

My baby is one!

At one year, Adeline weighs 18lbs (10%), is 28.8in tall (50%) with an 18in head (75-80%). She is a sweet little girl, who we love sooooo much! It's been a great year.

Carrots are GREAT!

2011-07-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

Anders loves carrots. It is the one vegetable I can get him to eat at almost every meal. He especially liked eating this carrot straight out of Grandpa and Grandma Larson's garden.

Red, White and Blue

2011-07-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

Summer Catch Up May/June

2011-07-14T23:44:00.000-07:00

It is already July....wow....I really need to catch up this blog. So here are some snapshots of our summer this far.

May:
Happy Mother's Day- Jeff and the kiddos surprised me with a new chalk/magnet door. I love being a mom and loved my surprise gift.

The Masters/Happy birthday- We spent Memorial Day weekend at The Masters Ski and Wakeboard Tournament in Pine Mountain, GA with Bryan, Eraina, Elwood, Lorraine, and Kiddos. It was a fun weekend full of some amazing talent; and a great way to celebrate 32 years.

June:

Uncle Preston- my brother had a business trip in Dallas and was able to come and stay with us. It was so good to see him. Anders especially LOVED playing with uncle Preston.

Grandpa and Grandma Corbett- Jeff's grandparents came to visit from Canada. There were a lot of great grandchildren for them to meet.

Iowa Road Trip- We spent a little over a week in Iowa visiting family and friends. It was so beautiful and a lot of fun. Iowa summers are the best!

Surprise Party- After 30 + years of teaching we helped surprised my mom with a Happy Retirement party. It was a great night of celebration.

Baby Luke- During our visit to Iowa I got to be at the hosptial when my good friend, Melissa, delivered her fourth baby. It was such a special time. Welcome to this world sweet baby Luke.

RN & Nana's visit to Texas- my mom drove back from Iowa with me just in time for me to start my new job and hospital orientation. She stayed for two weeks and was a huge help as we all adjusted to my new job.

(I love seeing RN by my name...though at times I really can't believe I'm a real nurse)

Anders- 2 Years 5 Months & Adeline- 9 Months

2011-07-08T19:23:00.000-07:00

Anders is becoming more and more like a little boy each day. He is talking like crazy, and wants to know "what's that name" and "why" in daily situations. In true boy fashion he loves cars, trains, tractors, jumping, wrestling and balls. He is also starting to play more on his own and is asking for a little more independence. Thankfully he still loves mommy's hugs and to sit in my lap to read books.

We are nearing the end of Adeline's 9 month and what a month it has been! Our little girl has really taken off crawling, moving all over the house, and is pulling up on most of the furniture. Majority of the mornings I find her standing in her crib and I'll even she her stand up in her stroller if she is not strapped in. I think she'll be walking soon. She continues to love her brother, wanting to do whatever he is doing but let's him know when she isn't in agreement with him. This month we also switched over to the bottle and sippie cup, but currently Adeline prefers to eat,so we mix her formula in with baby cereal most days. She is a good eater.

Adeline's 9 month visit with Doctor G.:
-16.11 lbs (10-25%)
-27 in height (40-50%)
-17.3 in head (50-75%)

This past month Anders has been asking to "hold her", wanting to hold sister. I love it....and hope and pray that this new interest in his sister is a beginning to a future friendship. Here was our attempt to capture "the hold".

Adeline 8 Months

2011-05-23T11:08:00.000-07:00

Strolling with the family.....smile turned off and on.

Our little girl is on the move. Starting off with the push-up (pictured above) she will then inch her way to an object or person she has her eye on. She is also sitting up regularly, which is her usual position in her crib when I get her in the mornings. At 8 months, she is eating solids up to three times a day and sleeps through the night most of the time (still working on this). Some of her favorite things are: to be held, bath time and laughing with Anders in the car.

First Bike Ride for Adeline

2011-05-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

Summer weather is here....so bring out the bike.

I Want to be Like Daddy

2011-05-07T08:57:00.000-07:00

Anders pulled his "game/toy" laptop up by Daddy's this morning.

Happy May Day

2011-05-04T21:03:00.000-07:00

Growing up in Iowa, my hometown celebrated May 1st. It's known as May Day. You celebrate it by filling small baskets with goodies (popcorn, flowers, candy, etc) for friends/neighbors. Then you take the baskets to their doorsteps, ring the door bell and then run. Yes, run....because if the neighbor/friend catches you after you ring there doorbell then they can kiss/hug you. As a kid, what can be more fun then getting to ring a bell and then have someone chase you. I remembering loving May Day and this year Anders did too. Here is a picture of him running after leaving baskets on one of our neighbors' door.

I know most people don't celebrate May Day in Texas, so I goggled and found some history on it May Day Baskets. It is something fun...maybe you can try it next year.

Easter

2011-05-04T20:44:00.000-07:00

We had Easter at our home this year and my parents surprised us with a quick trip from Iowa. Anders LOVED playing with "nana" and "hopa" (papa).

We spent an afternoon visiting one of Anders' favorite spots, the horse carousel at the mall. Anders had a big wave for Nana and Hopa each time his horse came around.

Adeline and Nana cheered Anders on from the sidelines.

Easter Sunday we went to our church service to celebrate the resurrection of our Savior and then came home for a backyard egg hunt. Once Anders discovered that his first egg had a treat inside, it was hard to convenience him he needed to find anymore. He was happy to stop, sit and eat his new found treat.

Adeline joined in the fun wearing her Easter bonnet.

And at the end of the day.....it is always nice to sit back and relax.

It was so fun to have family here visiting. Thanks for coming to see us. I am very thankful for my family and most of all I am reminded how thankful I am for a Lord who loves me so much that he sent his only son to die for me and my sins and the hope I now have through Him.

I Love Family Fun Days

2011-04-22T06:35:00.000-07:00

Jeff's day off is typically Mondays, making it one of my favorite days of the week! The past few Mondays we have been trying to plan "family fun days".

Park time...let's swing!

Pool time, swimming at the Frisco Athletic Center. Adeline's first time! They love it.

Sharkarosa, exotic wildlife tour up in Pilot's Point. So much fun.

This camel was seriously this close to me.....I tried to play it cool as the "mama bear" came out, and I gritted my teeth held Adeline even closer to me.

Anders favorite out of all the anmials were the two dogs (Great Danes). We need to get him a dog.

I heart family fun days!

It's so cozy to ride in my dump truck....

2011-04-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

Anders loves his new truck from Uncle Preston and Auntie April. He pushes it up and down the side walk every day. Sister even had a chance for a little ride. Anders describes it as "soup".....translation = super!

Sleeping Beauty

2011-04-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

She did it! Adeline slept for the first time through the nigh last night- from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am. I am one happy and rested mommy. Let's hope she keeps it up.

Adeline 6 months-old

2011-03-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

Adeline has moved into her 6th month. She is rolling, grabbing for things, chit-chatting (baby girl style), sitting up, trying new foods (only squash and sweet potatoes thus far) and really taking in her new world. I still remember this being my favorite month with Anders and oh how I still love it, just seems to have come so much quicker this time.

At her well visit with Dr. G, Adeline measured: weight 15lb 6oz (25-50%), height 26.3in (75%), head 16.8in (50-70%).

Back when I was pregnant with Adeline I found a great place that offered a good deal on monthly pictures. Since then I have been taking the kids regularly and it has really helped me document and keep up with all their changes. The photo place has done a good job each time, but these ones of Adeline have been some of my favorites!

Nobel and of Good Cheer

2011-03-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

Adeline was dedicated tonight at our church. Her name meaning- nobel and good cheer. Her verse- Let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice, let them ever shout for joy. Psalm 5:11. We love our little Adeline and are committed to raising her up to know and love our Lord.

Anders- Two Year Photo Shoot

2011-03-21T18:33:00.000-07:00

What a good little man! At two years..... Anders is 26lbs weight (25-30%), 35.8in height (80-90%), 20in head (97%).

Worry

2011-03-13T20:01:00.000-07:00

Before children (BC) I would have never considered myself a worrier, but ever since I have had my first child I find myself worrying about EVERYTHING. I mean it has really gotten out of hand. It has gotten so bad that I find myself worrying about worry itself. So....here is my new memory verse Philippians 4: 6-7. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus".

Adeline 5 months- what can I grab?

2011-03-06T13:56:00.000-08:00

Our sweet Adeline is 5 months old and loves to interact and be around you. She is also really into grabbing anything that is in her reach. I love this picture of her.....she plays so hard and then just can't let go, not even for a nap.

Bahamas

2011-02-28T17:56:00.000-08:00

Jeff recently went and taught old testament for two weeks at a bible training center in Eleuthera, Bahamas through the Caribbean Ministries Association.

There were around 18 local church leaders who attended each night. Most evenings, the class would break half way through and have a meal/fellowship. Conch is a very popular dish there, which we ate in several forms and fashion (taste like chewy chicken).

Adeline and I joined Jeff for a week, thanks to some air miles and Grandpa and Grandma Larson who kept Anders. It was a nice break, some good R&R, and some of the most beautiful water I have ever seen.

We also had a chance to spend some time with Ryan, Emily and their son Micah who are missionaries in Eleuthera and friends from our church here in Frisco. They have been working with CMA for about 3 years, almost all of Micah's life.

Some fun facts about Eleuthera....1. it has some of the top rated beaches in the country. Though if you are a local you only go to the beach no more then 2 times a year (certain holidays), so unless there is a resort built on the beach most of the beaches have no one on them.

2. it has one of the smallest pieces of land that separates the Alantic from the Caribbean. In the picture below the Caribbean is on the right and the tiny bit of darker blue on the left is the Atlantic. We crossed this land marker several times in the training centers vehicle, "Mitzi" the Mitsubishi.

Happy Birthday Anders- 2 Years Old

2011-02-25T19:50:00.000-08:00

Our little guy turned the big 2 years on Monday, February 21st! We had a great day of celebrating him.

Breakfast = donuts, chocolate milk, candles and the little man learning to hold up two fingers to show he is two. Breakfast of champions...not quite, but to a 2 year-old...nothing is better.

Lunch = noise makers, balloons, and cake with family. Making noise and running around with cousins...again to a 2 year-old...nothing is better.

Cars is the movie of choice for Anders right now......He LOVES it. In fact he would watch it everyday if we would let him. So, this was my attempt to make him a themed cake. It's the taste that matters most, right? Thanks to pioneer women blog, the frosting turned out yummie.

The past couple of nights Anders has slept with this Lightening McQueen car. Like I said, he loves that movie.

It was so great to celebrate Anders. He is a joyful, expressive, loving, and inquisitive little boy that we enjoy and love so very much. It has been a great 2 years, that really have gone by so fast. In attempt to capture the moment here are a few things about our 2 year-old Anders. He loves.....:

to jump...on the trampoline and off most anything- the height will surprise and sometimes worry you (or at least his mom).
to throw most anything...this sometimes leads to trouble.
to read Elmo seek and find book (read it almost everyday) as well as Good Night Moon before we go to bed.
to eat these foods: oatmeal and toast, peanut butter- will usually get a "yum", blueberries, bananas, yogurt, cheese, chicken nuggets, grapes, and bread are some of his staples. I do think I need to mention that I caught him eating a chuck of real butter by itself the other day...another "yum".
to give hugs, he has a great hug and usually wants to hug and kiss his sister.
to laugh. He is very ticklish...he and I both love this....we laugh and laugh and laugh.
his pacifier, though he is only allowed it at nap and bed time now. He asked to go to bed the other afternoon just to have his paci.
to push trucks, ride on his plasma car, do summer sults, be outside, sweep the floor, "help" around the house, play in water, clap his hands, listen to music, and finger paint.

Anders is really just on the brink of talking in phrases that we can understand. His newest phrase can be heard in the video below*.

*Please note the Canadian accent. Anders spent a week with Grandpa&Grandma Larson and picked up on this phrase. He can say it up to 50 times a day and typically will use it in appropriate moments.

Texas Winter Storm......

2011-02-04T13:09:00.000-08:00

Equals ICE (a lot of ice) and 4 days of school/work cancellations. Today was the 4th day of the storm, and the first day there was snow instead of just ice..... making it a great day to bundle up and play.

These pictures look nice, pretty and wintry...but beware under that snow is a thick layer of ice. The news weather man, said it was the worst winter storm he has seen in 25 years.

4 months old- USA passport

2011-02-02T21:08:00.000-08:00

Look what came in the mail, Adeline's passport....good for 5 years.

Registered Nurse (RN)

2011-02-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

I did it! I am officially a RN. I took the national licensure exam last week, and found out two days later that I passed! It was a very difficult test and those two days or waiting were some of the longest, but now I am DONE! No more studying, no more test....no, now it is time to catch up on all those "get to later" projects and spend time with my family.

We celebrated last night as a family by going to Gatti's town, local pizza and games place, as a family. It was a lot of fun.

I would like to say thank you again to my family and friends, especailly Mom Larson and Auntie Karin who helped watch the kids while I was in class. I couldn't have done it without your help.

Favorite Things

2011-01-30T19:19:00.000-08:00

Here is the latest and greatest things that Anders and Adeline like to do at home.

Anders: play in his toy fire truck with all his "friends"...while talking on the phone. Thanks Uncle Preston and Auntie April. He also loves to paint, jump on the trampoline, fall into bed and into his truck...and read books (elmo and farm books are the favs right now).

Adeline: loves to grab her toes, sit in her bumbo or exersaucer, role from tummy to back, smile at mommy (cute as a button), and be held. She has also started to laugh at her brother.

Happy Birthday Daddy

2011-01-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

My sweet, fun, wonderful, smart, good-looking, creative, awesome husband and the best daddy turned one year older this past weekend. We had a great time celebrating him on Sunday. We LOVE you.

Adeline 4 Months

2011-01-17T08:31:00.000-08:00

Our little baby girl is now 4 months!!!! I love this age. She is full of smiles, finding her toes, laughing, talking and exploring. Adeline's favorite thing is still being held, especially if it means standing on your lap (strong little legs), but yesterday we tried out the exersaucer and she seemed to really like playing in it too. Adeline has rolled over from belly to back a couple of times and we are working on back to belly. At her 4 month well visit Dr. G measured her at.....

Weight: 13lbs 3oz (50%)
Height: 23.5in (25-50%)
Head: 16in (50-60%)

Our special goal between now and our next well appointment at 6 months is to sleep through the night. We love you princess Adeline.

Snow Day

2011-01-16T18:33:00.000-08:00

A snow day this past week equaled a big smile from Anders and plasma car races with mommy and daddy.

Becoming Buddies

2011-01-12T10:28:00.000-08:00

Fun in the Snow

2011-01-05T11:03:00.000-08:00

When we were in Iowa for Christmas there was so much snow. We had a good time adventuring out into what we only see a couple of times a year. It is funny to me...what used to be such a big part of my every day winter Iowa life has now become a novelty.

Getting ready....bundle up it is cold!

Not in Texas anymore....the 4th attempt up my parents' drive we got stuck. Living in the South now for 10 years has started to show.

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-29T19:32:00.000-08:00

Larson Christmas- Happy Birthday Jesus

Daddy and Anders playing some tunes for the Christmas games.

Larson....so excited!

Grandpa and Jane too....

Anders loves his harmonica.

Christmas in Iowa...oh how I love a white Christmas.

Nana and Pa-pa

Celebrated many birthdays....happy birthday to the boys!

Anders praying....thanking God for cake.

Anders was a big helper....he loved making cookies and bread with Nana

Adeline watched from her high chair

It was great to Celebrate with the extended Hempy family....Anders made a friend with cousin Alise at the snack table.

Back for more....

Family Christmas picture....

True Colors....

What a great time of the year!

Graduate Nurse

2010-12-26T17:34:00.000-08:00

On December 9th I did it....I was pinned as a graduate nurse from Brookhaven College! It was such a great feeling. It is hard to believe that the process of becoming a nurse started over 4 years ago with night classes and now I am finally done. HOORAY! I couldn't have done it without all the love and support of my wonderful husband, family and friends. Thank you.

Adeline all dressed up!

Happy Anniversary- 8 years

2010-12-21T05:32:00.000-08:00

Today Jeff and I celebrate our 8th year of as Mr. and Mrs. Larson! I can remember his uncle, who married us, annoucing us as Mr. and Mrs. to the congregation like it was yesterday....such a happy day. I love you Jeff and am so thankful and happy to be your wife!

Last Class Exam- Over!!!!

2010-11-22T11:56:00.000-08:00

I shaded in my last scan-tron bubble sheet this morning, marking the end to my 4th semester of nursing school. HOORAY!!!!!! Now just the HESI exit exam, graduation and then the national NCLEX exam and I will be officially a RN.

Here is a tribute to Brookhaven's nursing class 2010.

Adeline 2 Months

2010-11-19T19:19:00.000-08:00

Our sweet princess is 2 months-old! Today we took her to visit with Dr. G for her 2 month well visit. She is a healthy baby girl and we are so thankful.

Weight: 11.3 lbs (70-75%)
Height: 22.5 in (75%)
Head: 15.3 in (70-75%)

Adeline has recently found her voice and will talk and flash you a smile when you talk to her.... It melts my heart. Here are some pictures taken of her during some of our recent conversations.

Bath Time

Out and About

Also wanted to include a picture of our little pumpkin helping to pass out candy on Halloween night.

Big Brother Anders

2010-11-14T17:46:00.000-08:00

Here is some fun updates on our little man Anders. He is taking on his big brother role, slowly but surely.....looking like a big brother with his new haircut (the lady spiked it..hee...hee).

Anders is all boy- loves to climb and swing. Here is Anders climbing on the dog at the old Navy display. He would probably stayed there all day if we had let him.

Besides climbing things he loves to swing. Here is the little man showing off his new found trick.

Speaking of tricks....we passed out candy to all the trick and treaters on Halloween as well as had a blast at the fall festival. Anders was the cutest Tiger!

Princess Adeline

2010-11-07T18:24:00.000-08:00

Adeline Sue Larson

2010-11-06T20:35:00.000-07:00

I had a healthy pregnancy.... then a safe and healthy delivery that ended in this beautiful little life on September 13. Our sweet baby girl, Adeline, will be 8 weeks old on Monday and I am embarrassed that this is my first posting on the blog. Time has flown by, especially with nursing school starting back up just 10 days after she was born. Adeline is such a wonderful addition to our family. It seems she changes almost every day.....so I am going to try to start blogging more frequently to keep up with her. So here are her birth stats....bear with me in the next few weeks as I try to catch up the blog.

Adeline Sue Larson
September 13, 2010
3:42 am
7lbs 5oz
20 in

Big brother Anders (wild hair man)

First day home and sharing :)...good big brother.

Our little princess....one week old.

We have been so blessed. We love you Adeline. Every good and perfect gift comes from the Lord. James 1:17.

I am looking forward to the many adventures the lie ahead with my Anders and Adeline.

Baby girl- 36 weeks

2010-08-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

My belly is sure expanding, which means baby girl is really growing. Just like her brother she is measuring "big", so last Friday we had a sonogram done just to be on the safe side. According to the sono, she is about a week ahead in growth and is weighing in at about 6 lbs! We may not make it to her September 24th due date.

Here are her most recent pictures.

I also wanted to post some family pictures we just got back. We took these around 31 weeks (please disregard the "yellowish" color- I took a picture of the printed pictures).

Anders is 18 months or 1 1/2 years!

2010-08-21T18:41:00.000-07:00

Today is the 21st of August, making Anders 18 months old or a year and half. Wow! Wanted to share with you some of Anders many faces that make us laugh every day.

At 18 months Anders is.....running, climbing on all and anything he can manage- found him on top of our kitchen table the other day, loves dogs, playing with his cousins, eating with a fork or toothpick, jumping off steps or some kind of height, talking, pounding toys, throwing balls (or anything else he can that doesn't get a "no...no" from mommy), loves his pacifier, reading books, pretending to talk on the phone- he does a great imitation of daddy, and being around people. He is sleeping from about 7:30 p.m. until 6:00 a.m., which is when he wakes up for his morning drink and then goes back to bed for about an hour. During the day he is down to one nap, right after lunch, and sleeps for about 2 hours. His favorite toys are the remotes, the piano, his broom, balls, and panda or bunny. He is a wonderful little boy and we are so thankful!!!!

His 18th month "well visit" with Dr. G shows that he is a growing, tall and lean little boy.

Weight: 23.10 lb (20-30%)
Height: 33.5 in (90%)
Head: 19.5 in (95%)

At his appointment we were cleared to stop the pedisure- Hooray!

Summer

2010-08-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

With school starting for many on Monday, I wanted to make sure I catch up with my blog and post some highlights from the summer.

Summer started out with Vocation Bible School (VBS) with daddy. Jeff led everyone in song, dance and jump/jive/hop. The day we visited was a western theme (sorry for the phone taken picture quality).

Ridding in the new bike trailor with daddy.

Spending some time boating with the family.

Loving eating ice cream on a hot summer day. Who wouldn't?

First haircut thanks to grandma. I still haven't been able to bring myself to cut the curls in the back.

Before

During

After with Grandma

Playing......playing and more playing......

And cleaning up after a long day of play with friend Vesper.

Visit to Iowa

2010-08-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

With the summer school semester over Jeff, Anders and I were able to go home to Iowa to visit some family and friends. I am always amazed by how green Iowa is. My cousin who grew up here, but has also moved away, describes it as "soft" or "lush". Iowa, there is now place like it. I especially love Iowa summers, but more importantly I love my family and friends that live there.

The first weekend we visited Preston, April and Parker came in from Ohio for a visit as well. The cousins had a great time together!

The two weeks that followed Anders had many adventures in grandma's garden, swinging, play on the farm, playing with 2nd cousins, and visiting family. He loved seeing the horses, throwing rocks into the creek, and walking the gravel roads (according to him all the rocks were balls).

There were some extra special dinners with Grandma Judge and and Great Grandma Hempy.

It was so nice to spend 2 weeks with Grandma and Grandpa Judge. Thanks for having us.

During our stay I saw some very special friends from from college (GO ISU), and Anders made some new friends with their children.

It was so great to see everyone. We miss you!

Welcome Baby Abby

2010-08-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

Our sweet little niece, Abigail (Abby) Sue Larson was born on August 6th. She is beautiful! Congratulations to happy parents Bryan and Eraina and big sister Lucy.

Big Boy Bed

2010-08-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the 2nd night for Anders to move out of the crib and sleep in his "big boy" bed. The first night was a bit rough. It entailed about an hour of Anders getting in and out of bed to protest, however he eventually gave up and we found him asleep in the middle of the floor. Tonight was a bit of an improvement, he made it out of the bed to protest just once and then he was quiet. After about a 1/2 hour I went into his room and found him like this- fast asleep. Sweet boy.

Summer Visitors

2010-06-16T07:01:00.000-07:00

We had some friends and family come and visit this past week. First John, a good friend that Jeff went to high school with in Canada, and his wife Jenni came from Minnisota to stay with us a night.

Then my parents drove in from Iowa the next morning and my brother Preston flew in from Ohio.

We all met up for dinner one night at Mom and Dad Larsons......

And during their visit, Anders had a blast play with uncle Preston....

Going for walks to the play park and getting wet at the local splash park with Grandma and Grandpa Judge....

And reading his favorite peek-a-boo book .....

It was so nice to have everyone visit. We love you and miss you!

Scout You're a Good Dog!

2010-06-15T07:13:00.000-07:00

This is a morning ritual for Anders.

Finding Scout to give her some loving......

Chasing her from room to room, sometimes grabbing her tail....

Mounting her like a horse (poor Scout, like the title says- she is a good dog)....

And then Scout running away (do you blame her)....

Anders- 15 Months

2010-06-11T14:29:00.000-07:00

Last month Anders turned 15 months and had his doctors "well" visit. In keeping up on documenting, here is an update on the little man and his stats.

Height: 32.5 (90%)
Weight: 22.4 (20-25%)
Head: 19 (90%)
Vaccinations: Dtap, Hib, Hep A

His favorite foods currently are his morning drink- Pedisure, eggs, pears, cheese, yogurt, ketchup (he is into dipping), beans, yogurt, cookies, graham crackers, chicken drum-stick and french style green beans. His favorite activities are climbing, playing with balls, anything with Scout, swinging and sliding at the park, throwing things in the bathtub, playing in water bowels, "helping" mommy sweep. He is waking up at 6:30 a.m., takes about two- 2 hour naps, and goes to bed at 7:30 p.m.. He is talking his own language (he will have a conversation with you speaking "Anders") of which we can make out Scout, Mama, Dada, and recently please. He is a sweet boy, who can fall and scrape his knee without a tear, but if you scold him or take something away from him the tears will flow. I feel so blessed to have such a great little guy.

Here is a recent creation by Uncle Erik with Anders climbing/riding Jeff's longboard. With his long curly hair...it looks like we may have a future skater.

My Sweet Anders and his different faces

2010-05-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

Anders has so many facial expressions....I love and cherish them all. Here are some of them that his talented Aunt Yuriko and Uncle Erik caught on camera.

It's a baby......

2010-05-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

When I was pregnant with Anders, Jeff and I decided not to find out the gender of our baby. I loved this decision. In the nine months leading up to Anders birth, it was fun to speculate the gender, to play guessing games, to pick out a boy and a girl names, and to finally make the "big" announcement at the hospital when he arrived. With this pregnancy however, I decided I really wanted to know the gender ahead of time. So after much persuasion and a little help from a sweet lady from our church, I was able to convince Jeff that this time around we needed to find out. Jeff did agree, but made a few stipulations- he would be the one to find out the gender first and he would decide how to make the big announcement. So last Saturday he revealed the results from our sonogram, Jeff style.

Everyone loved the surprise announcement, and the ice cream cake. We are so very excited about our baby girl on the way. Pink....bows.....lace.....and frills- here we come. We are very blessed.

2nd Semester is OVER!!! Just 2 more to go.

2010-05-11T19:44:00.000-07:00

Turned in my last final today of my 2nd semester RN program....and let out a big HOORAY. Here are just a few pictures from this past semester (promise to do better and take more in the future).

Matt checking for nasogastric tube placement during skills lab.....way to go Matt. We are officially done with skills lab.....Mr. Ima Hurt we will miss you.

Everyone needs a little reminder of hyperthryoidism...Anna sporting Michelle's thyroid presentation handout (it is in the shape of a thyroid....very funny at the time).

My Little Monkey

2010-05-11T19:02:00.000-07:00

I went to grab something from the kitchen, only to come back and find the little man standing not ridding on his truck. I think we have reached the "climbing" stage.

Anders- you are so funny!

2010-05-11T18:57:00.000-07:00

Anders has just recently discovered that he can make people laugh. Here is his most recent funny face.

Thanks Uncle Erik and Auntie Yuriko for the great pictures.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-11T18:51:00.000-07:00

Spent most of the day with my guys. Jeff and Anders were sweet and made me some "mommy" t-shirts.

At 21 weeks...the t-shirts won't fit much longer- maternity clothes here I come.

14 Months Old- my baby is a little boy!

2010-04-22T18:15:00.000-07:00

Anders is really moving now. Besides walking...his new favorite thing to do is ride on his "mater". Seeing him on his truck, makes him look like such a little boy.....wow, what happened to my baby?

What's New with Anders- 13 months

2010-04-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

It has been busy around here, with nursing school starting up after spring break. You see, I always have the best intentions of getting "caught up" with life (caught up on reading, school work, house work, with friends, with my blogging, etc), but in a blink my "catch up" week is gone and I have a big school project and test staring down at me, with a to do list that is just as long as before....sigh....if only we didn't need to sleep at night- what we could get done (smile).

So here is my "catch up" on Anders. We took him in for his 12 month appointment in February to find out that he had lost 2 lbs since his 10 month check up (see his stats below). So for the past month we have been trying to fatten him up by giving him whole milk mixed with carnation, along with his normal diet. Unfortunately, when I just took him back to the doctor last week, he had only gained one oz. So we are stepping up his diet to drinking Pedisure (Ensure for babies), which thankfully he loves, as well as giving him the foods he really likes (bread, yogurt, cheese, and muffins) or anything he will eat with a lot of calories. I just need to be careful not to enjoy those high calorie foods along with him.

12 months check up

weight- 20.14 lbs (25%)
height- 30.2 in (75%)
head- 18.8 in (90%)

Besides his special high calorie diet, Anders is a busy little boy. His walking is progressing. Last week he took a total of 8 steps walking between Jeff and I; but it seems that he realizes that his knees and hands can get him where he wants to go faster, so he still prefers the crawl. Though, I think he will be walking soon, because one of his favorite past times is walking behind anything he can push, including our kitchen chairs.

He also loves the dog we have been watching, Scout (Karin and Ryan's black lab). In fact his first word ever spoken, and his first word of each day is typically Scout. Anders will feed her, crawl/chase after her (poor Scout), and loves going on walks with her...a little boy and a dog- so sweet.

Anders also has some great curls growing- I love them.

Something else new with Anders, is he is going to be a big brother come September 23rd- Surprise! Yes, I am 15 weeks pregnant.

FYI- Jeff made the back of his t-shirt.

Caught on Camera

2010-03-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

Bookshelf....books....little man...giggles as he crawls away- Anders thinks pulling the books off the shelf is so much fun!

One Year Celebration

2010-03-03T06:58:00.000-08:00

Anders turned one on the 21st of February. It is hard to believe that this little person came into this our lives a year ago. It was definitely a year to celebrate!

1st Day- so sweet & so little (how quickly you change)

6 months- big happy smile

12 months!!!!!!!! Wow...cake is great!

Birthday party- lots of fun to be had with Elmo, pizza, balloons, presents, grandpa & grandma, aunt & uncles, and cousins and a good old hockey game to top it off.

Anders loves his 'Mater' truck! Thanks auntie April and uncle Preston.

Anders we love you so much. You are such a sweet little boy with tons of smiles (they melt mommy's heart). You love to play with your new truck, play the piano, crawl and walk-moving along furniture, have mom and dad chase you, take the books off the shelf, play with the hall lights, eat bananas and bread, and sing songs. We are so thankful for you...you bring such joy to our lives. Happy birthday sweet boy.

Winter Wonderland!

2010-02-12T14:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning we woke up to about 4 inches of snow, which in Texas could be considered like 12 inches. The snow continued to fall all day long in big wet flakes; covering the trees, roads and houses. Anders and I ventured out in the morning for a little bit and then later in the afternoon when Jeff got home. As soon as Jeff took a step in the snow, he was on a mission to build the biggest snowman ever. It was great.....the whole neighborhood got involved!

Pictures of his part 2- massive snowman from this morning are to come.

Anders is 11 months old

2010-01-21T19:42:00.000-08:00

Today is the 21st, which means Anders is one month older- 11 months to be exact. It has been a great month (especially good because I was off from school and was home with him the whole time)! Just for the blog record here is a recap from last month: Anders is sleeping from 7:00 - 6:30, takes 2 naps during the day, loves bath time, started to army crawl, sat-up by himself, totally made the switch from baby food to table food, has pulled himself up on furniture, and attended his first hockey game- Go Stars.

Cousin Jane and Anders loving the view of the ice...along with Snow White, Cinderella, and Bell.

Anders pulling up and standing...new favorite past time.

Anders also loves a good laugh...check out this video. Who new that grabbing a sock could be so funny.

Happy 11th month little guy....this will be his last month celebration before he turns 1...sniff...sniff...sniff.

Praise Him

2010-01-18T08:21:00.000-08:00

Anders has a trick that we call "Praise Him". It all began with the song- "clap, clap, your hands..... all His people....shout, shout, with joy....to the Lord...to the Lord" that we have been singing with him since he was about 3 months old. Well, now all you need is to just smile at him or bring out the camera and Anders will start clapping and then throw his hand up in the air to "Praise Him". Here is a cute video and some pictures.

Video link- Anders Praise Him

Clap....clap

Praise Him

I love this last picture...it looks like we may have an Olympic gymnast.

Oh Mexico

2010-01-13T19:27:00.000-08:00

After our trip to Iowa we came home, repacked and headed south for our old home- Aldama, Mexico.

Aldama was were Jeff and I lived and worked with Gloria Al Pardre ministries for 15 months in August 2003-December 2004...hard to belive that it has been 4 years.

It was a great time to go, because a big group of Camp Ozark and War Eagle staff were there at the same time working with the clinic, local kids, and construction projects. We had a great week working with their mission team and visiting some of our old friends from camp and Mexico.

Ozark/War-eagle Green Team

When we weren't taking care of Anders or visiting Aldama friends, Jeff and I got to be a part of the "green team", who ministered through VBS to the local kids in Aldama. This team was great with the kids...and proved that love can be be communicated whether you speak the same language or not. They had about 70-75 kids come everyday to play, sing, laugh and learn about Jesus.

Medical Team and Super Dave

There was also a medical team that included a dentist, pediatrician, and a group of nurses. They had a long line waiting for them every morning at the clinic. I got to even help out one day by making a home visit to a bed ridden patient, who needed some immediate care (nursing skills lab did pay off)

Claudia and Anders

Here is our good friend, and probably one of my best friends when we lived in Aldama. She is now going to college, in Chihuahua and studying Math. We are so proud of her!

Jimmy, Christina, and Family (Jimmy Jr. and Carely)

One of the nights we went for dinner to visit one of our close family of Aldama. Christina served beans, beef steak, and homemade tortillas...it was so delicious. Dinner was so good, the day after we got back to Texas we headed to the Mexico grocery store to try and recreate it.

Pastor Amos, Patty, and Family (Arely, and Patty's Mom and Dad)

When we lived in Aldama, we lived on a complex that included our duplex, the medical clinic, a 2-story dormitory, and the parsonage. The parsonage is where our Pastor and his family live. They are so wonderful....like family to us. It was great to visit with them!

Roca Eterna

Our home away from some was the local first Baptist Church, Roca Eterna. It has grown tremmendously this past year, and has some new members with some amazing testimonies. Here was the church at the Wednesday night prayer meeting. It was so encouraging to hear how God is changing lives in Aldama.

Susi & Octavio

Our one young married couple friends in Aldama are Susi and Octavio. We stopped by there home for some coffee and good conversation. The times speant with Susi and Octavio are always prove to be fun and interesting.

Anders First Soccer Game

What is a trip to Mexico, without a little soccer/football? Here is the little man at his first soccer (or football in Spanish) game- he loved the ball. It was so great to have the chance to introduce Anders to our friends/Mexico family. The culture is so family oriented that they welcomed him with lots of hugs and kisses. With Ander's light skin and hair...he didn't lack any attention.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-02T20:18:00.000-08:00

2nd Annual Christmas Cookie Party

The night before Christmas Eve, we celebrated the season by decorating Christmas cookies with Jennie Parks and the Yates family. Exactly one year ago we had the same party, but Melissa and I were 8 & 9 months pregnant..... so it was so fun to have Issac and Anders part of the group this year.

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve was celebrated with the Larson side of our family. After the Christmas Eve service at First Baptist Church, Anders joined the rest of his cousins at Grandma and Grandpa's house for gifts and great food. Anders and his uncle Ryan both were proudly wearing their Christmas sweater vests :).

Christmas Morning

Christmas morning we woke and opened stockings, and later that morning the rest of the Larson family joined us for Christmas brunch at our house. It was uniquely a white Christmas here in Texas....which led to snowman and a Christmas morning snowball fight (sadly...I don't have any pictures). However, I did capture Secily and Anders "playing" us a tune on the piano.

Boxing Day/Day After Christmas

In Canada the day after Christmas is know as Boxing Day, which is very similar to our day after Thanksgiving. So in honor of Boxing Day we headed to the Frisco mall in hopes of holiday sales, and then took in some ice time at the malls ice rink. All the Canadians hit the ice with no problem, while this small town Iowan girl (who can't skate for the life of me) "had" to stay on the sidelines and care for Anders. However, Anders did have a chance to take a few loops around the rink with Daddy- after all he is part Canadian.

Christmas in Iowa

We drove the Sunday after Christmas to spend some time with our Judge family in Iowa. The 12 hour drive went very smoothly (Jeff is a great driver and Anders slept most of the time), however at the end of the drive was "the hill" on which my parents house is located. The hill during Iowa winters is covered with several inches of snow and most the time is at freezing temperatures, so it is often a challenge to drive up....especailly with Texan tires (which were our excuse anyway).

Iowa Highlights:

-Spending time with Grandma Lana and Grandpa Ray

-Anders 1st: crawled forward, ate an apple, and celebrated 1st birthday party...at 10 months old lucky boy got to celebrate his 1st birthday with Iowa friends and family

-2nd cousins

-Great Grandma and Grandpa

-Lots and lots of snow -Snuggie time (my Grandma Hempy gave my whole extended family -around 30 total- as gifts)

-New Years Eve with the Winter family: ISU won their bowel game, Cael turned 5, Avery was a princess, Gabe tried to teach Anders how to stand, and Melissa and Corbin blitzed it with us- dutch blitz style.

Christmas is Almost here!

2009-12-22T20:25:00.000-08:00

Hand Bells

To get us into the Christmas spirit we started December off with a little hand bells at Frisco's Merry Main Street! It was a family ordeal, with Jeff directing and his mom and sister filling in as some of the bell ringers. Anders and cousin Jane were some of the bundled up spectators in attendance....it was probably one of the coldest nights we had in Texas all year, burrr.....but it really made it feel like Christmas.

Christmas Tree Decorating

Anders is the best gift we could ever have!

Thankful!

2009-12-08T20:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I bubbled in my last testing scan-tron, and finished up my first semester of nursing school. It was a good yet challenging semester, of which I am so thankful to be done. A special thanks to my loving husband and supportive family- I couldn't have done it with out you.

Here is a reflective picture from my first day of clinical...I was so nervous; but 10 weeks later I am feeling more confident and much more like a nurse.

So this morning I woke up feeling like a new "free" women, ready to take on all the things I love doing but didn't have much time for during school, one of which is blogging.

Catching up on Anders

I am very thankful for my healthy and happy little boy. He brings such joy to our lives! Anders turned 9 months on the 21st. His appointment with Dr. G showed the following stats:

Weight- 20.4 lb (50%)

Height- 29.5 in (95%)

Head- 18.5 in (95%)

Anders currently loves: to make people smile by clapping his hands, taking baths, eating, playing with his cousins, standing- with Mom and Dads help, and singing (listening to us sing and then adding his version). He also is trying out a new move that we call the "push-up" (pictured below)...this may mean that he will be crawling soon.

Bath time- 1st mohawk!

Mom Larson

This past month we celebrated with my mother-in law on her birthday. I am so thankful to have a wonderful mother-in-law, who is such a help with Anders and a great example of a positive and joyful person.

We celebrated Thanksgiving at their place and I was one of only two Americans in the room. Canadian thanksgiving is in October- so I am a lucky girl that get's to celebrate my favorite holiday not once but twice!

Jeff's Wheels- on his way to work!

2009-11-18T17:27:00.000-08:00

Reasons Why I Love the Fall

2009-11-12T18:15:00.000-08:00

Weather- it is perfect 60/70 degrees (really- nothing beats it).
Colors- I love nature's green; but mix in some red, brown, and orange- BEAUTIFUL!
Warm clothes- Sweaters, scarfs, hats, slippers... fall accessories are so fun.
Warm drinks- Apple Cider....smells so yummy and taste so good.
School year begins- it's the time of year to learn new things.
Thanksgiving (Canadian and American)- so much to be thankful for and you can't beat the food.

Mr. Independent

2009-11-11T17:32:00.000-08:00

Our little man is becoming Mr. Independent. He just recently discovered that holding the bottle himself is way better then having someone hold it for you.

He also loves swinging by himself at the park!

As well as reaching and "talking" on my phone. Love this picture because it shows off his great stocking hat hair! Comb anyone?

And making many funny....

and sweet baby boy faces.

Like many moms, my camera is flooded with pictures of my baby, but if you were to scroll through my recent pictures you will find a little diversity. Here are some of my most recent "study A&P" pictures from school- the lung and a histology slide of Alveoli. The more I learn the more I realize that the human body is amazing!

Nursing school is keeping us all extra busy around here, but I have high hopes to catch up on blogging during the upcoming holiday breaks.

8 Months Old

2009-10-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

Wow, another month has flown by and our little man is now 8 months old. New things with Anders: clapping hands, standing with help and enjoying a great new view, eating (3 times a day), being outside, dogs (loves Chaco- Uncle Erik and Aunt Yurikos' black lab), pulling all toys out of his toy basket, and sticking out his tongue. He also has 5 teeth with the 6th on the way- it really makes him look like a little boy. My baby is growing up!!!!

Here are some favorite pictures from this past month.

Love this Harley outfit from the Files family.

Grandma Judge brought Anders a warm winter coat when we were in Ohio.

Mickey Mouse time at our Fall Festival!

Playing Outside.

Parker

2009-10-23T18:37:00.001-07:00

My nephew, Parker, was born this past Saturday- October 17th! We all had a chance to meet him over the weekend and got the chance to congratulate Preston and April.

Happy New Parents.

Proud Grandma Lana.

All the guys hanging out.

Parker's first car ride home.

The Family.

This little guy is so adorable- welcome to this great big world Parker, we love you!

Can I Have a Napkin Please

2009-10-14T18:09:00.000-07:00

Dinner tonight was peas. Peas have not been a favorite this past month, however by adding a secret ingredient, fruit (thanks for the advise Jana), Anders loved them! Tonight was an especially fun dinner because on top of eating a healthy green veggie, making me a happy mommy, Anders got to try and feed himself, making him a happy baby. This new found independence did mean peas everywhere- on Anders, on me, in our hair, on the wall, on the floor...but overall what fun!

Happy Birthday Elwood

2009-10-01T03:28:00.000-07:00

Today is my father-in-law's birthday! We are so happy that we can help him celebrate here in Texas (August marked their one year anniversary as Texans). I love this picture of him.

Mr. Ima Hurt- Nursing School Patient

2009-09-26T15:09:00.000-07:00

Please let me introduce Mr. Ima Hurt (love how my professors have a since of humor), one of my patients I had at nursing school this past week. The real live patients begin on Monday, when I start my clinical rotations at Medical Center of Plano- patient care here I come!

While I am in school Anders spends some time with Grandma and Grandpa Larson, Aunt Karin, Aunt Eraina, or his Daddy. Here is my favorite picture of the week, Anders is "helping" Grandma and Grandpa Larson in their garage.

7 Months Old

2009-09-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

Anders is 7 months old today -so hard to believe! He is a busy little guy, doing something from the minute he wakes right up until his next nap. We love him very much and are so thankful that God blessed us with such a sweet, healthy and good little baby.

7th Month Recap:

Sitting up
Developing stranger danger- crying at a new face
Eating vegetables: peas, carrots, sweet potatoes, squash (only really liking sweet potatoes)
Discovering hands and being fascinated
Rolling...rolling....rolling
Jumping....jumping...jumping in the jump-a-roo- especially while Daddy plays the piano (a little rhythm- maybe?)
Building our immune system by having a cough/cold (off and on) for 4 weeks
Loving attention and being around people
Holding a sippie cup
Playing peak-a-boo and laughing until we got the hic-ups

Anders- We Love You!

What's New with Anders

2009-09-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

Hand Discovery- "What are these things are the end of my arms?" Anders has been fascinated with his hands....stopping in the middle of eating, playing, even talking to bring them in front of his face and study them. I find this ADORABLE!

Teddy Bear Love- He has also begun to sleep with his Teddy. The fun and special fact about this bear it that it was his daddy's when he was little.

Lake of the Woods

2009-09-13T19:39:00.001-07:00

Over Labor Day weekend we flew to Winnipeg Canada and then drove to Jeff's grandparent's cottage on Lake of the Woods, where Jeff would spend almost 3 weeks every summer. The lake was unbelievable beautiful, the weather was perfect, and it was great to have a chance to see the place where Jeff learned to swim, ski, barefoot, and love the water. And to top it off, we spent the weekend with Jeff's brothers (Bryan and Erik) and their families (Eraina, Lucy, Yuriko, and Chaco) and Jeff's grandparents (Doug and Sue Corbett).

Welcoming sign at the end of the cottage's lane.

Maple leaf flying proud and high.

Grandma Corbett and Lucy.

Erik and Yuriko.Byran, Eraina, and Lucy (Bryan is pushing Eraina in the water)

Erik on the wake skate!Jeff's first skis

Brothers jumping off the boat house roof.

Family Pics!

Anders loving Canada

Sweet Lucy! Cousins- so fun.

Night Time Reading

2009-09-01T07:04:00.001-07:00

These are the books that currently reside on my bedside table- yes I am 30 years old and officially a student again. Last week was my first week in Brookhaven's nursing program and I am pleased to write that I survived! I use the word "survived" because it really is a good description of how I felt going from being a stay at home mom to a full-time student (full-time means at the campus every day but Friday and Sunday). Life as a student now means having books that weigh more then Anders, taking tests on scantrons, asking other students for directions on how to get to class, looking in a microscope, sitting in hallways studing for a quiz or finishing homework, raising my hand, going to the bookstore, loving bright highlighters and notecards, practicing what I have learned with family and friends, and reading....reading.....and more reading. Great times! Now that I am in my second week of the program, I am feeling a bit more organized and confident that I can do this and I am even feeling thankful for the opportunity. Going back to school also reminds me of how blessed I am to have such a loving and supportive husband and family- I couldn't do it without them.

Now back to studying.

6 Months Old- Little Man

2009-08-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

Our little man turned 6 months old yesterday- WOW!

The little one is keeping busy.....trying out solids, grabbing his toes, rolling over (though he is a back boy- loves his back), sitting up (tripod style), getting his first teeth (yes- we have two on the bottom), playing with his little buddies from church, and laughing and smiling a lot!!!
He is still growing like a champ. Dr. G weighed him in at 18.11 lbs and measured him at 28 inches long (75-97 percentile). He is such a joy....it is hard to remember what life was like without him.

Camp Ozark 60th Reunion

2009-08-17T11:24:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a blast to the past as we loaded up bedding, towels, bathing suits, Caddo/Osage t-shirts, costumes, and drove through Oklahoma and Arkansas to attend Incomparable Camp Ozark's 60th reunion! Incomparable is a very good description of this one of a kind place. A summer at Camp Ozark is full of fun, sun, and people who love Christ that are dedicated to teaching and loving kids of all ages and backgrounds. Camp Ozark is where Jeff and I first met back in '99 and where Jeff worked for 10 years and I worked for 6 summers; so this place is very near and dear to our hearts.

Here is a picture of our friends and the owners of camp, Sam and Susan Torn. A good descritption and quote from Susan this weekend was, "Sam was born to run Camp Ozark"!
Susan and Anders- having a good time! Anders loved camp...there was so much fun and loving people there that he wasn't short of attention. I am excited for the time when Anders is older and can truely enjoy camp and the adventures it offers.
A visit to Camp Ozark wouldn't be complete without blobbing. This is where you jump off a tower onto a colorful sack full of air in hopes to shot the person who just blobbed in front of you 20 feet into the sky. Even my nephew Larson (4 1/2 years old) got in on the fun. Way to go Larson!

Perrysburg, Ohio

2009-08-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

Last week we meet my parents at my brother's place in Perrysburg, OH. We had a fun time catching up as a family, grilling, playing games, bike riding, and spending as much time outside as possible (it was 70/80 degrees- beautiful). It was so nice to see where Preston lives, works, and meet the love of his life, April. Here is a great picture of Preston and April and one of their two dogs.

We were able to fly to Ohio on Southwest (thank you Ryan and Karin). Here is Anders on his second plane ride ever...sleeping like a champ!
Perrysburg is a suberb of Toledo...so the trip wouldn't have been complete without this picture taken by Jeff, who is a Mud Hen fan.

Eye to Eye

2009-08-01T09:50:00.001-07:00

Preston and Aprils' great dane (note- Preston is 6 ft 1)!

Our trip to Ohio was great...more to come.

Ticket to Ride- 147

2009-07-31T15:39:00.000-07:00

Time with Grandma Lana

2009-07-27T08:38:00.002-07:00

My mom came from Iowa and stayed with us this past week. It was great to have her here! It gave us some quality mom and daughter time as well as some special grandma and grandson bonding. We went for daily walks, saw a movie, shopped, read books, Jeff and I had a night out, and mom even helped me try to start Anders on some solid food -thanks mom!

5 Months Old

2009-07-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

Anders is full of surprises, just when I am getting used to a certain stage, he does something new. Today I found that he had rolled off his blanket about 3 feet across our floor! He changes so fast. Happy 5 months my sweet baby boy.

Here he is sitting up in his "little man" chairs, really enjoying the his new found freedom and view.

Of course Anders' new best friend, his thumb, is always part of his new discoveries.
He also is jumping around with the help of the jump-a-rue (thanks Susi)!

Tuesdays with Grandma and Grandpa Larson

2009-07-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

I've been taking a few summer classes in preparation for the nursing program that will start in the fall. My Tuesday class came to an end last week- Hooray! While I was in class Anders would spend a few hours with Grandma and Grandpa Larson. I am so thankful for them and that they live so close.

There is always a good time to be had and Grandma and Grandpa's house, but here are a few pictures that capture these fun times!

Laughing with Grandma
Swinging with Grandpa

Swimming in the Pool

Baby Mullet

2009-07-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

4 Month Check Up

2009-07-10T10:08:00.001-07:00

Anders had is 4 month well visit today. He is weighing in at 17.4 lbs, 27 in. in height, and 17.5 in. for his head. Dr. G gave him a great report card, placing him in the 90-95 percentile. It is hard to believe that our little baby is already 4 months old. This past month has been a lot of fun because of all the new things Anders has discovered he can do. Anders is now smiling really big, rolling over, laughing, cooing, grabbing toes (and anything he can reach- including hair), trying to stand, really sucking his thumbs, drooling, kicking and becoming very social. Anders loves to be around people and often "turns on his high beams" with his eyes to take them all in.

Here is one of my favorite picture that Melissa took of Anders when we were home in Iowa.

Samuel Lars Larson

2009-07-09T09:22:00.001-07:00

Our sweet nephew, Samuel Lars Larson was born on June 30 at 7:07 a.m. Yesterday he was moved to a new floor and his own room. Please continue to keep little Samuel, Brian, Eraina and sweet Lucy all in your prayers.

Beautiful Iowa- the state that makes you smile!

2009-07-01T18:45:00.000-07:00

Green....Green... and more Green

It has been awhile since I last posted anything so I have a lot of catching up to do. Anders and I flew into Iowa a week ago and have been having a blast seeing family and friends all from my home state of Iowa.

I love Iowa, especially the summers, everywhere you look you see green! This visit has been particularly beautiful, blue skies and 70 degrees, so we gave been going for walks and trying to enjoy it as much as possible. During one of our outings, my mom and I introduced Anders to sweet corn and the farm.

On this walk we ran into a snapping turtle in the middle of the road that was coming up from my uncle Craig's creek. You don't see many of these in Dallas.
On the way back we stopped at my Grandma and Grandpa's garden to pick some raspberries. Acres of green....ripe red raspberries....it doesn't get much better then this.

Friends, Family and Faith

It has been wonderful to see some family and friends during our visit. My good friend Melissa came out to my parents house with her daughter Avery and her baby Gabe. Gabe is just about 3 weeks older then Anders and is adorable. Melissa is a long life friend, and I can't wait to see our children grow up playing together.

We also had a chance to go and visit my mom's sister and 2 of my cousins. Here is Anders hanging out with all the girls (getting everyone to look at the camera all at the same time was quite the accomplishment). My cousin's daughter, Morgan (front row) lost her second front tooth during our visit and is proudly flashing her toothless smile.

This past Sunday we attended my hometown church. Here is the Montour United Methodist Choir in action (total attendance this morning was around 21). Montour's slogan,"small town and proud of it".

Happy Father's Day to all the Wonderful Fathers

2009-06-22T05:54:00.000-07:00

Jeff's first Father's Day (best Daddy).....

We spent most of the afternoon celebrating with family including Jeff's Dad who is grandpa to many...

New generation of Dads: Bryan, Jeff, and Ryan....

My step Dad (celebrated with him over the phone- so here is a good picture from Christmas when he was celebrated his birthday).

The day was topped off with a birthday celebration dinner with my good friend Allison. We had a lot to celebrate!

Virus- a bad word

2009-06-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday night Anders woke up at 1:00 a.m., then 2:00 a.m., then 3:00 a.m. and so on crying and running a temperature of 101. The rest of the week has been this same sad story until Thursday when his fever finally broke and turned into a full body rash (not pretty but better then a temperature). According to Dr. G, my poor baby had his first virus and in Dr. G's words "mom, all you can do is love him through it". I think that in all moms there is a natural desire to want to fix it and make it all better, so it is awful to watch your baby cry and ache and realize that this time there is nothing you can do. This is why the word virus is now considered a "bad word" in our house. However, I am happy to write that today when Anders woke up he shot me that sweet smile that I love and adore, so I think he is on the mends and starting to feel like his old self.