Miracles

Last post

2010-01-22T14:18:00.000-08:00

I know this is going to break some people's hearts but this will be my last post. Carson is 18mos and we are just getting busier by the moment. I want to thank all the loyal followers for keeping in touch with us. Carson had her check up today and she is growing and doing great.

Head 49.4 98%
Weight 24 pds 45%
Height 33 inches 86%

My step mom had always said that Jeff and I would have one perfect child and we feel we do. Carson is our joy and life and we are blessed.

singing off the Becker Family

Christmas Snow

2009-12-27T07:38:00.001-08:00

Christmas has come and went now, but the snow I think will be sticking around for a long time. We had a great Christmas this year. I'm not a big Christmas person but having Carson has changed that. She makes everything funner. Christmas Eve we headed to Peru to do the Becker side Christmas. Debbie made some great food and Jeff's cousin's and grandparents came over to open presents. Then we headed to Jeff's uncle's house to see the rest of the family and Carson and Isabella got to play together. It was a great time and Carson was such a trooper she had only gotten a hour nap and didn't go to bed until we left about 10:30pm.

We also got to skype Jason and Chaille and watch Ava open up some presents.

Then Santa came Christmas morning. Carson's favorite gift was her Dora chair. She sat in it and opened the rest of her gifts. Yogi also likes his new bed. We headed to Glasford later in the day and braved the weather. It actually wasn't to bad. We had a blast at Aunt Debi's house. When we were kids the house we knew we would have a blast at was Aunt Debi's house and nothing has changed. The kids have so much fun there and Aunt Debi always has fun things for them to do. The adults have toys to play with too. hahaha!

Then the major snow came and then it was time to get outside and let Carson really play in it for the first time. Last year she was to little to understand what was going on but we though this year she would get into it. She didn't like it at first but after a nap and lunch we took her back out and she loved it. Enjoy the pictures!

Carson in her Christmas outfit ready to head to Glasford
Carson and Josie getting spun around at aunt Debi's. Like I said the fun house.
Carson and daddy ready to go play in the snowDaddy showing Carson how to eat the snow.
Round twoMommy and Carson playing in the snow

Carson swingingCarson on her new 4 wheeler from cousin Ava.

Christmas weekend

2009-12-15T16:48:00.000-08:00

This last weekend was full of Christmas fun. Our household has been a little on the ill side but got better for the Christmas joy. Saturday we had the Butler side Christmas I believe there was 35 or so people there. There was 7 kids under the age of 3. So that just explains how much fun we had. There was no major fights and all the kids seemed to get along so that was good.

Then Sunday we had Christmas at our house with my mom and sisters, and there kids. It was so great to have everyone together. The kids just played with all the toy's and us adults enjoyed a little conversation. It was great to see everyone open there gifts. Right now I would have to say Reese is the best to watch. Her eyes get so big when she really like a gift. Carson and Boh really don't know what is going on so they just basically went off on there own to play. Bella being 10 and all basically already knows what she is getting but still has a good time.

It is great to spend time with the family during the holiday season.

Carson at Grandma Madge's with her antlers areThe family Carson and Boh looking out at the lightsBoh and Bella playing with the ball popper
Reese ready to open presents
Yogi ready to enjoy family time and the kids.

What we are thankful for.

2009-11-28T07:16:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone with much joy and eating. Here at the Becker household had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We are thankful for all the wonderful family we have, every ones healthy, and the time we get to spend together. Jeff and I are very thankful for our wonderful daughter and the joy she has brought to our lives. This year for Thanksgiving we ventured off to Glasford to my aunt Debbie's where fun was had by all. We have so many little kids the house is filled with laughter and yelling at the kids to share. lol!! Everyone had a great time. Then we headed to Bartonville to my Grandma Madge's house. If you thought there was a lot of kids at aunt Debbie's you should see all the commotion at Madge's house. I swear our family has enough little kids to fill a warehouse. It is fun though. Both sides of the family talk about how it reminds them of when we were all kids. For a while there were no little kids then we all started reproducing and boom kids galore now.

Then Friday Tori and I braved the black Friday madness. We were in line at Target at 3:30am needing to get a very special gift for Reese and we got it. It was crazy, fun and exciting all in one.

Then later in the morning we went to see Sarah my step niece in the Santa parade she was cheering for Dunlap she did great. All the kids were there and were wonderful. Here are some pictures of the exciting day.

Mandy and Carson partying at Grandma Madge's for ThanksgivingCarson loved to lick the outside of Mimi's wine glass.All bundled up for the Santa ParadeThe kids at the Parade minus Reese I think she was sitting on the curb with her momCarson being a good girl sitting on my lap watching the parade.

next holiday

2009-11-16T17:03:00.000-08:00

Ok we are on to the next holiday's. I know people start celebrating Christmas was to early, but this year we are joining in on the early celebration. Jeff has our lights up and we have already done some Christmas activities. With the little boy in Washington sick it just seems like we need to enjoy every second we have with Carson and our family. We have went to the Junction City Christmas walk which there they had a huge life size Santa that Carson loved even though in the picture she looks scared of it. Lets hope she does ok with the real life Santa when it comes time. Plus our little Reese turned 3 and her birthday party was this last weekend which was a blast and the kids had so much fun. I cannot believe how big she is getting. I remember the day she was born when Shaun held her up to show us I remember thinking "she looks just like Shaun" man was I right. know it is just three short years later. It kind of makes me sad how fast they grow up.

Jeff and I did adventure on our own to go see the Tran Siberian Orchestra. We had a great evening out to dinner and the show was great. I really recommend it to everyone to get into the Christmas spirit.

We have lots coming up with Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner. I have the Friday after Thanksgiving off so Black Friday shopping her I come.

Carson in her Thanksgiving pj's.The big Santa that Carson loved even though it doesn't look like it.Carson stylingReady for some outside funCarson and Reese playing in the toy chestReese and her mommy on her third birthdayWho needs toys when you have a ramp.

Halloween

2009-11-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

Halloween has came and went with much excitement. Pop Ed is 55 now and getting younger by the minute. I swear that man has the energy of a 15mos old. Also Pop Ed and Grandma Kathy's 15 year anniversary was today, which we wished them a happy anniversary since we were at there house well past midnight Saturday. It was a very busy holiday weekend. Friday night we went to Heather and Erik to carve pumpkins and Saturday night was the big birthday bash. I never knew the crazy party would be thrown by my father and Kathy. Wait I can totally believe that. lol. We had so much fun and the costume's were great and the food was awesome. The house was decorated top notch and everyone had a blast. I got two to three hours of sleep if that tells you anything. Halloween was also my cousin Maddie's birthday she turned 9. Her birthday party was the weekend before at the bowling alley in our church basement. it was so much fun Carson actually enjoyed watching the bowlers. We also adventured to the wild life no so scary party last Friday which was great. Carson really enjoys the train ride there. We will be going in Nov for the Polar Express night they have there. Here are so pictures of all our adventures this month.

I also want to commend everyone on there costume for Pop Ed's party. Everyone looked so great.

One last thing Carson has moved into the toddler room at daycare. She eats a big girl table and sleeps on a cot. She is getting so big.

Our family at Wild Life Prairie ParkCarson posing next to the pumpkins we carved.Maddie and Carson at Maddie's 9th birthday party.I took Friday the 30th off and took Carson and Bella trick or treating at Mandy and I's work.Isabella and Carson painting there pumpkins.Dad and Kathy all dressed up for the party.The Adam's Family Learch (wes), Wednesday (Linz), Uncle Fester (chuck), Cousin It (lori), Grandma (Beevo), Mortisha (mandy), Gomez (Dave).

15mos

2009-10-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

Carson is 15mos old and getting bigger everyday. She doesn't really say much, but a few words comes out now and then. We went to the doctor today and Carson hates it. As soon as we get in the room she starts screaming like someone is ripping her limbs off. I during this commotion go into hysterical laughing fit. I'm sure the doctors office just loves when we come. I just find it funny that Carson gets so upset when all the doctor is doing is listen to her heart beat. She just really doesn't like people touching her. I say this all the time but Carson is just like her daddy tall and skinny. Also Carson's head is still huge like every other kid in the family.

Weight 21pounds 12ounces 33% she has actually went down in her weight percent but she is a lot more active then she use to be.

Height 31.5 inches 82% the same as always

and lets just say her had is in the 98% where it always is.

The doctor didn't seem concerned about the percentage of her weight going down. Carson eats like a horse so I'm sure it will go back up by her 18mos check up. I think she just went through a growth spurt so that could also be the cause.

Other than that she is developing right on schedule. Here are so pictures of her on her actually 15mos birthday. I have decided we need to celebrate her birthday on a monthly basis. Life is to short not too.

Carson all dressed up to come eat lunch with mommy at work. Don't you love the barretteCarson at the Rivermen game in the suite we got.Boh, Uncle Shauno, and Carson after the game. The kids and adults had a blast.

Thank You

2009-10-21T14:24:00.000-07:00

I will be keeping the blog. Thanks to all my friends and family that either commented or emailed me. I will be posting pictures soon of Carson's 15mos check up.

this blog

2009-10-19T11:37:00.000-07:00

Just a quick question does anyone still read this blog. If you do please send me a little comment connected to this post. I was just wondering because with facebook now a lot of people are just looking at that and not coming to the site. So if people are still coming to here to see Carson grow like a weed on daily basis I will keep it going. So just let me know. Thanks Hugs and Kisses.

Halloween is coming

2009-10-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

I don't know where the time goes. I know everyone says it but it is true time flies and kids grow up fast. I cannot believe it is already October and Halloween is right around the corner. Halloween of course is a big deal to us because it is Pop Ed's birthday and this year he will be 55. Can you believe it. He has always wanted to a costume party and this year with his birthday falling on a Saturday it is on. Carson looks so cute in her Halloween costume nothing to win a prize at the Glasford parade, but enough that people will say "oh how cute is she". I have realized with having a child it is like living your childhood all over again. i get way more excited about holiday's not that we have had Carson and it is even funnier as she gets older.

Carson is getting so big these days. she is almost 15mos now and will be going in the toddler room at daycare. So when I'm off for my 6 days during Thanksgiving Jeff and I will be tackling the taking away of the pacifier. I know this is a going to be a challenge. After she turned one there was no more bottles except at night. Then about a month ago i took away the night time bottle. So no more bottles, but that pacifier is still her best friend. Actually she only gets it during naps and at night, but still she loves that thing when she has it. I had mine until i was four years old and Jeff says no way is that going to happen. Well we'll see how tired we are when she will be up screaming for hours wanting it. I guess if it doesn't go well we can do it during Christmas. I just don't want to do it when i have to go to work the next day in case i get no sleep. I read that Brent and Jenny are trying to do the same with Josie. Maybe i should wait and see how it goes for them. Maybe they will have a few tips for me. wish us luck.

Other than that nothing much is going on. Jeff is still doing wonderful at school. he is stressing out this week because he has two big test, but I'm sure he will do great. We will be buying some pumpkins to carve this week. I know I'm getting so grown up. i use to hate doing things for the holiday's and now I'm am having Christmas at my house for my mom and sisters and we are putting up a tree. Well I'll share some pictures of Carson and our fall activities we have been doing.

Carson playing in the car before going to the Peoria day surgery party.Carson all bundled up. doesn't she look happy. lolthe family getting ready to watch the Bear's game. If Carson's on my lap yogi has to be on my lap.Carson in her little Tommy skirt before it got butt ass cold out.mommy and Carson Getting ready for a weiner roast. Carson loves hat would wear them all day if i let her.Trick or Treat doesn't she look adorable. i couldn't stop laughing.

where has fall gone

2009-09-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

The weather is changing and there is nothing we can do. I do have to say that I am enjoying the cooler weather but it can just stay right here for the rest of the year. It doesn't seem like long again we put away Carson's winter clothes now we are putting her summer clothes up. The Becker household has been busy lately. We have been going to festivals, birthday parties, and dog parks. This last weekend we had Carson's cousin Isabella's 1st birthday party. It was a great day nice weather and Carson had a blast playing with the new toys Isabella got. Then on Tuesday we took the kids to the Bradley dog park, which at first Carson seemed to love way more than Yogi. Then Yogi got use to the surroundings and ended up running around. We did have to leave after about 30mins, because I forgot Carson's coat and Yogi decided he would act like a big tough dog and try to fight a Pit Bull. I wonder who would win that match. The sad thing is our wonderful little Yogi started the fight and the Pit Bull just look at him like "really you are 10plds and fluffy".

The month of October is very busy for us. We have the Peoria Day Surgery Party, Spoon River Drive, and my Dad's birthday. So stay tune for some pictures to come on our fun festivities.

Fall

2009-09-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

The weather is changing and it is getting colder as we speak. We have been doing a lot of fun things since the weather is getting great out. We have been to all the festival in the tri county area marigold, pumpkin, canton. I got some really cute bows for Carson at the marigold festival. then we took Bella and Carson to the pumpkin festival and they had a blast. Bella say some friends and they rode rides together. Then we took Carson to Canton to there carnival with the Murphy and butler family. I took Carson the on carousel and she liked it the first time, but screamed the last time we went, and Jeff took her down the big slide. Then we had a wonderful birthday dinner at double A's for Grandma Kathy's birthday. The weather has been so nice outside is the place to be. Carson and I played with chalk for the first time the other night while daddy was at school. She loved it didn't do much drawing but hugged the chalk a lot and throw it on the floor.

Since it was rainy the last few days we stayed inside and did some coloring. For Carson's 1st birthday my mom gave Carson the rocking chair that was mine when i was a little girl, and Carson just sat in it and read her book and listen to music it was so cute.

Bella and Carson at the Pumpkin FestivalCarson playing outside with her chalkI just think she looks cute in the outfitCarson sitting in her (my) chair listening to musicCarson loves reading her books.Once she learned to sit in the chair she kept sitting in it. So she thought she would read a book while sitting in it.

on the mend

2009-09-14T17:03:00.001-07:00

I think it is safe to say that Carson is feeling all better. Here on some pictures of Carson is her Illinois Jersey and Bears Jersey. Hope you enjoy.
Go Illinoisyogi and Carson all about the Bears

Sick Babies

2009-09-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

Ok I know summer it technically over, but this is ridiculous. I am not ready for the flu season. Carson and Jeff are both under the weather. I'm not as worried about Jeff, because he can tell me what is wrong with him. Carson on the other hand is running a high fever and it just won't break. She has gotten up to 104 and it was like she was on fire. I just wish she would get better because she just doesn't act like herself. I hate when my baby's don't feel good. Life sucks when you are sick.

vaca pics

2009-08-29T10:37:00.001-07:00

Everyone.

Carson at the water park

Carson at the beach.

Becka, Gwenie, and Carson

Daycare

2009-08-28T08:51:00.000-07:00

We are back from vacation and back to a routine again. Just a little update on our trip to Myrtle Beach. I would have to sum it up to an experience. Traveling 16hr in a car with a 1 year old wasn't my cup of tea or Carson's for that matter. We traveled through the night on the way up there and I will never do that again. Carson is a very lite sleeper so every time we stopped she was up and ready to party. It was to much with being tired and entertaining a one year old. Once we got there our place was nice and I really enjoyed spending time with Kim and her family. Her step girls were so nice to Carson and she really enjoyed being around them. I'm sure they didn't like her trying to steal there DS, but they never lead on they were annoyed. They were so sweet and kind. As for the beach I am not a beach goer. I hate the sand and not being able to lay in the water. Carson has taken after me for now and doesn't like the beach either. She hated the sound of the waves, but she did enjoy eating the sand. The heat was horrible. It was like 95 degrees with 100% humidity which is way to hot for me.

We did ended up taking Carson to a water park, which she loved the first time and hated the second. Children are so finicky they like something one minute and hated the next. It was nice to spend time with dad and Kathy. We got to go to this really cool landing place called barefoot landing. We got to see some cool things. Then one night we went to Ripley's Aquarium and I have to say I loved it. You could pet sting ray, and walk through this tunnel and there were sharks swimming around you. It was really great.

The end of the trip came sooner that we planned. After the second trip to the water park Jeff and I decided it was time to head home. Kim was nice enough to let us use her car and they went back with dad and Kathy. I am so grateful to her. The ride home was also very long, but we ended up driving four hours stopping and sleeping and driving the rest of the way home. This time we only stopped twice and made it home pretty quickly. Everything always seems better in the light of day also. All in all it was an experience that we learned a lot from. Carson will not be going on vacation again until she is 3, which we will only fly, and if we do every drive anywhere again she will have to be at least 7. I will post pictures later.

Vacation

2009-08-14T04:48:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot going on so I haven't been able to post. Sorry I won't have pictures for awhile, but when we get back from vacation I'm sure I'll have plenty. We have been packing for vacation for about a week. But we did take a few breaks to do some fun things. Wednesday Jeff and I took Carson down to the taste of Peoria. It was so much fun not to hot, and Carson loves to people watch. Jeff and I actually took Carson down there last year when she was like 5 weeks old. Let me tell you how different it is a year later. Last year Carson wasn't a happy camper and we ended up leaving because she was screaming so loud. This year to ate ice cream walked around and danced to the band. We had a blast and got to see Jeff's friend Daniel before he left for college.

Jeff and I discussed when Carson turned 1 we would have her start going to a daycare at least once a week. So yesterday we took a tour of PALS and loved it. She will start going there Monday's. We thought it would be a good idea for her to get some child interaction. They have a more school based atmosphere and think that will be good.

Saturday we leave on vacation for Myrtle Beach. Jeff, Carson, Dad, Kathy, GG, Kim, Mark, Mark's girls, and myself are driving there for some fun in the sun. Please pray for a safe trip and that Carson does ok on the 16 hour car ride.

1 year appt

2009-08-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

Well at least when Carson goes to see the doctor she doesn't have shots, but she screams anyway. It is so strange, but when the nurse is in there measuring her length, head, and weighing her she is a happy little camper. Then the doctor comes in she berries her head in my lap and when he starts examine her she screams to the point were she cannot breath. What can you do but just let her scream til he is done. Have I told you lately how much I love Dr Neese. He just returned from Africa on a doctor's without borders mission, which is very impressive I think. Back to my point I have switched Carson over to a sippy cup and table food but still give her a bottle at night. I have been so worried about how I suppose to get her off the bottle before bed, but now my fear is over Dr Neese says he doesn't worry about that until closer to 2 years old. Plus I was worried about when I was suppose to stop letting Carson go to bed with a pacifier, but he said as long as she isn't getting it during the day and it is affecting her speech she is fine til 2 years old on that. So we clear on those things. I asked him about how to doesn't say actual words, but he said that shouldn't be a concern yet. Other than that things are going great. They were impressed she could walk. She is growing like a good little girl should Carson comes in at:

Weight - 20pds 15oz 48%

Length - 30 quarter inches 85%

Head - HUGE I don't know the dimensions but it is in the 97%

She was a good little girl except when the doctor tried to look in her ears, touch her stomach, and wiggle her legs. So basically do the whole exam.

one of Carson's one year pictures. Take by Ona Sidlinger at www.onastudio.com 369.5115 if you would like an appt.

1 Year Shot

2009-07-30T09:47:00.000-07:00

Monday Carson got her 1 year shots. For those that don't know how serious this matter is it was FIVE individual shots (2 left leg, one right leg, and one in each arm). There is a lot of contraverse about the one year shots, and I admit it is scary. After talking to my brother in law and cousin Emily they made me feel a lot better. It still sucks watching you baby screaming and not know what is going on. After it was all over I just told the Carson "that lady just made you healthy" she didn't give a crap she just wanted the pain to go away. I did keep her medicated through out the day with Tylenol and Motrin. She seemed fine and never got a fever so that was good. We did treat her to some ice cream in the afternoon and that really made her happy. All my fears of Autism or her hating Jeff and I have subsided and she is the sweet little girl that she has always been.

1st Birthday Party

2009-07-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

After all the planning stressing and excitement of Carson's 1st birthday party it is now over. It went off with out a hitch and everyone enjoyed themselves. We had a few problems with people getting lost, but everyone found there way after awhile. I think the cake was the biggest hit. It was huge, adorable, and delicious. I do want to say a special thanks to deb, Steve, aunt Debi, Kendra, grandma beevo, tori, my mom, dad, Kathy, Jake, and Jennifer. Without them there would have been no food or great pictures. Carson got some great stuff and she and we would like to thank everyone for coming and all the wonderful gifts.
Carson's individual cakeThe big cake for everyone else.Noah and Carson playing Carson eating her cake

Carson's 1st birthday

2009-07-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

Well it is hard to believe that a year ago I was giving birth to our little girl. I never realized how much children truly change your life. She has been the best baby, and is turning into a little girl now. We had a fun filled day. We went to the zoo and saw all the animals way more active then we have in the past. Then Uncle Jason, Aunt Chaille, Cousin Ava, and Grandma and Grandpa Becker came over for dinner. They also came with us to the zoo. Then we all headed up to the ice cream shop in the Heights and got some wonderful ice cream. Carson enjoined it the most I think. Then off to bed she went with a full belly and a fun filled birthday.

I know she won't remember a lot of it so I tried to video tape and take pictures as much as I could. We also would like to thank everyone that called and sang and wished Carson a happy birthday.

Carson and Ava at the zoo

Playing with her toyes

Carson reacting to Dr Overcash the way she did a year ago today.Carson with her birthday hat on. It was Ava's on her first birthday

Pulling your hair out

2009-07-13T11:21:00.000-07:00

Ok I am not complaining but Carson has be come such a big momma's girl that sometimes I want to pull my hair out of my head. We had a great weekend with lot to do. Friday night my sisters and my nieces and nephew along with Jeff and Shaun went to see the pre airshow on the riverfront. It was a little hot, but it was enjoyable to see the planes up close and personal. The kids were good, but Carson had her fussy moments and I ended up having to take off her shorts, because I think she was too hot. Then on Saturday Carson and I trucked off to Glasford to my cousin's wife baby shower. We got to meet the adorable Annabelle and eat and talk to family I haven't seen in awhile. It was very nice with wonderful food and company. Carson got to meet her new cousin and play with everyone. It was nice because there were a few people I haven't seen for awhile at least it seems. My Aunt Lori was in town from Missouri and it was great to see her, Carson really took to her and she was laying her head on Aunt Lori's chest it was so cute. Then I got to see my great aunt Lois that I haven't seen since Easter. It was a good day.
Sunday we headed to my aunt and uncles lot by the airport to watch the Thunder birds do there little show. I could careless but Jeff love that stuff so we ventured over to see them. It was nice and not to hot. After words we met my mom, Bella, grandma made, Tori, and Boh at Cruisens for dinner. All in all it was a great weekend, but I do have to say by the end I was wore out. Carson has gotten to the point were she will just break down in tears in I walk two feet away from her. I hope this phase ends sooner than later, but I know when it is gone I'll miss it.

5 days off

2009-07-06T19:52:00.001-07:00

Well the Aussie are back in town. Jason, Chaille, and Ava came back on Wednesday night for four weeks. We love having them home and Carson and Ava got to see each other for the first time since Carson was 7 days old. What a difference a years makes at least for the kids. As for Jeff, Jason, Chaille, and I we jump back in like we have seen each other everyday in the last year. We had a fun filled fourth of July weekend. Wednesday we went out to eat upon there arrival home, and the Thurs shopping in Aurora, Friday canoe trip, Sunday Ava's birthday party, and Monday swimming at the Washington pool. It was a blast and the girls got to spend a lot of time together, plus Chaille and Jason got to see Carson and how big she has gotten. It is amazing she was 7 pds when they left and now she is 21 pds. I love that Carson gets to spend time with her aunt, uncle, and cousin. It will be very sad when they have to leave again.

Ava and Carson playing together at Ava's party. Ava was Dorothy from Wizard of Oz if you cannot tell

Carson in her fourth of July outfit she only wore for 3 hours

Ready for Ava's birthday party
The girls playing very well together at the Washington pool.

New Zoo

2009-06-28T16:48:00.000-07:00

We had a blast this weekend. Saturday Carson and I went swimming with Aunt Mandy, Bella, Aunt Tor Tor, Reese, Boh, and friends from work. It was so much fun in total there were 9 kids age ranging 10years -11mos. We went to the Washington pool, which by the way has the best kiddie pool around. Then on Sunday we took Carson to the new zoo and to my friend Erin's little girls first b-day party. The weather was beautiful you couldn't ask for anything better.

1st Hair Cut

2009-06-26T18:55:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I decided that it was time to get Carson's hair cut. It was only like an 8th of an inch, but it looks much better. Sarah, Mandy's best friend did it and was wonderful. Carson did a great job and Sarah said she was great for only being 11mos. We only need to get her hair cut every 6mos for now per Sarah. So it will be awhile before we go back.

I cannot flip the pictures so you'll have to go to our face book to look. Sorry!!!

Father's Day

2009-06-22T18:32:00.000-07:00

Another busy weekend. Saturday Jeff went and helped his dad put up and fence, and go golfing. While Carson and I went swimming at MiMi's pool and to a baby shower. Sunday was Jeff's first Father's Day. The morning went very well Carson bought daddy some White Sox tickets and a new outfit. He loved it all. Then in the afternoon I started feeling not so good and we had to head home from my aunt Debbie's house. That morning though Jeff, Carson, Mandy, Dad, and myself all went out for breakfast it was great.

With the weather so hot the best thing I thought to do Monday after work was to fill up the pool and take Carson swimming at our house. She had so much fun. She loves the water thank God because I'm a big pool person.

Also I want to say congratulation to my cousin and his wife Blake and Kendra on the first child. A baby girl Annabell.

Jeff on his first Father's DayCarson keeping cool in this heat.

Party Weekend

2009-06-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

This weekend was full of parties. We had graduation parties and birthday parties. Saturday we headed up to Peru to Jeff's cousin college graduation party. The morning seemed iffie with the weather but turned out to be great. Unfortunately I forgot the camera so have no pictures. We were planing on staying up there for the night, but got to tired and headed home.

Sunday we had Bella's 10th birthday party. If you can even believe Bella is already 10. Her birthday was in April but Mandy postponed the party do to a drive way thing, but things got done and the party happened. It was great. Here are some pictures.

Chief's Game

2009-06-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

Well this past weekend we took Carson to her first Chief's game of the year. Last year we took her twice, but she was so young. This year she got to wear her pink Cubs outfit that Grandma Kathy and Pop Ed bought for her. She looked so adorable. We went with Jeff's cousin and his wife, and there little girl. We had a blast the girls were great and really seemed to enjoyed seeing each other. They play so well together.

Saturday Jeff and I went to see my dad race in the most dirty night that we have ever been too. It was a good race and my dad did good so it was worth it.

Wednesday Jeff's other cousin came in from Texas with her little girl and we went to visit them at Erik and Heather's house(the cousins from the Chief's game). The girls played and we enjoyed dinner and root beer floats. Carson had her first ride to there house facing forward in the car. We sold our car seat stroller set to my aunt for her new grand baby on the way. So we got Carson's forward facing car seat for my car we already have one for Jeff's car, but his still faces backwards. If any of that makes since.

We have a busy June, July, and Aug. so look out summer here we come.

Carson in her pretty pink Cubs outfit.Carson showing her pink nike shows
Jeff, I, Carson, Heather, Erik, and Isabella leaving the game.Carson facing forward for the first time.

Summer is Here

2009-05-31T13:19:00.000-07:00

You can tell summer is here, because I am posting more. It is great having the nice weather. Carson is just experiencing new things every weekend. This weekend we went to Willett's in Manito which is a winery, and then Wild Life Prairie Park to see more animals, and ride the train, and last but not least we visited MiMi's pool for the first time.

Friday night we went to go see Uncle Shaun's dad play band play in Manito. It was a great night and Carson really enjoyed the music. Unfortunately I forgot the camera so there isn't any pictures.

Then Saturday we visited Wild Life Prairie Park it wasn't to hot so I thought it would be a great time to go. Carson loved the train and really enjoyed walking around.

Then Sunday we went swimming at MiMi's pool. The pool felt below zero but Carson didn't mind.

Carson enjoying the train at WLPP

The Bold Eagle we bought her

ready to go eat

Being a cheese ballSwim TimeSorry I couldn't flip the picture.

Fun Times

2009-05-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

I can already tell that this summer is going to be way different then last summer. The beginning of last summer I was pregnant which was fine but a little uncomfortable because I was the near the end of my pregnancy. Then Carson was born in the middle of the summer and she was just an infant and there wasn't much summer fun we could do. Well this summer will be a lot different. My wonderful husband (who got all A's this semester and made the Dean's list) put a swing up for Carson to swing on in our backyard. She loves it and she loves going really high.

Memorial Day weekend was great. It is so nice to have the warm weather here to stay. We enjoyed the three day weekend and pack a lot of fun things in. Friday night we took Carson to Lou's Drive in and sat outside and ate dinner. Carson smiled at all the people walking by brighten up there day. Then Saturday we had our last sign language class (Session One) and Carson got her certificate of completion. We start Session Two the beginning of June. Rebecca, Carson teacher, is wonderful and we hope to complete all three sessions she teaches. Then we headed up to Peru for Jeff's grandparents 65 wedding anniversary. I had the great idea of while we were up that way to take Carson and Yogi to the first movie. I know that may sound crazy, but Earlville about 20min outside Peru has a drive in. You know the old fashion drive in that we use to go to as kids. My Dad and Kathy let us take there van up there because the back lays into a bed for comfort. It was great Jeff put up some netting so the bugs couldn't get in I brought toys for Carson to play with and if she got tired she could just sleep in the bed. For the most part things went well. Carson got tired and fought sleep for about 20min but finally gave up. I ended up having to unbutton her pj's because she was getting hot. Yogi of course enjoyed just being with the family and ended up falling asleep himself. The movie was saw was "Night at the Museum 2". It was funny of the parts I saw. There is only a few things all four of us can do as a family and I was happy we had that experience together.

Then on Sunday Jeff and I blew up our pool that we bought for Carson this summer. I made sure it was big enough that I could also lay in to get a tan while Carson napped. It is awesome I love it. While Carson slept Jeff and I sat in it and got some sun. Then when Carson got up from her nap I called Tori and her and the kids met us at the zoo for there first trip. Well Reese had been there once before. It was a nice little experience. The kids enjoyed it and they including Carson got to eat some dip and dots and snow cones. Then we call came back to the house to swim and swing. That night my dad and Kathy came over to watch Carson so Jeff and I could go have a nice relaxing evening together. Unfortunately Monday was a rainy day, and we played inside and ran some errands. All in all we had a wonderful family fun filled three day weekend.

Carson swinging on her new swing.

On her way to her first drive in movie her first movie actuallyYogi on his way to his first movie.Yogi and Daddy watching the movie

Carson watch for about 5 min and then started playing

My tired little girlMy little guy is all tuckered outCarson finally getting some Z'sCan you tell she got a little hot.

Carson on her first trip to the zoo. 70+spf onher cheese ball faceeating some dip and dotscooling off with a snow coneCarson and Reese enjoying the pool

Carson playing inside on a rainy day

Mother's Day

2009-05-12T18:27:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful Mother's Day. I have a perfect little girl and a wonderful husband, and a puppy dog that only give pure love and affection. We had a busy day, but it was worth it. I woke to a wonderful card signed personally by Carson and licked shut by Yogi. Then as I was getting ready for church Jeff surprised me with a necklace of Carson's birthstone. It was so beautiful. We went to church with my mom, Mandy, and Bella. Carson was great and didn't make to much racket. Then we all went to lunch and tori, Shaun and the kids joined us. After that we headed home and Carson and I took a nap together, which was the greatest Mother's Day gift ever. After we got up Jeff's parents were there and we had a little cook out. It was a busy day, but very nice.

swim lesson's pictures

2009-05-06T13:31:00.001-07:00

My wonderful cousin Brent took some pictures of Carson while snapping shot of his own little cutie. So I will share.

Pictures

2009-05-05T10:16:00.001-07:00

Here are a few random pictures of Carson. We got her a pair of sunglasses to wear. They wrap around her head so they don't fall off. Also Carson is pulling herself up on furniture now.

from one class to the other

2009-05-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

As you all know Carson and I started our swim class at the beginning of April and last night Carson graduated. Carson was an ole pro at the swim lessons. We did take her in the pool before swim lesson started just to get her use to it. She loves the water and just splashes the whole time. She was great all eight sessions did cry except once when I put her completely under the water. She didn't like that so much. It was the first class and I don't think she was expecting that. After that I dunked her a few more time and she was ok with it.

Well now that swim class is over we start sign language class Saturday. So there will be more updates on that.

fun weekend

2009-04-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend was not the best weather, but we did what we could to get the best out of it. It was garage sailing time in Chillicothe so Ode was nice enough to let us put our stuff at her house. It was Friday and Saturday. I could only be there for Saturday, but still we sold a lot of our things. The kids got to play together and we enjoy our time with our friends. Carson went on her first lawn mower ride and she loved it. Saturday we were worried about the weather but towards the afternoon it started to get nicer and that is when the garage sale people really started coming.

After the sales were over we headed to Washington and enjoyed eating super with Heather, Erik, and Isabella. We grilled out went on a walk and Carson and Isabella played. It is fun seeing how much bigger they have gotten and interact with each other.

Sunday was nice enough in the afternoon we walked up to Emo's and got Carson her first cup of ice cream. She didn't like it that much. I think it was to cold for her, she just kept pushing it away. So we will try that again later. She is getting so big. She can stand up while holding on to something. It is amazing what two weeks brings. I swear last week her legs were like jello and know there she is just standing play with her toys. After a long playful weekend Carson thought she would snuggle with her daddy while he watched Nascar.

9mos

2009-04-24T12:38:00.001-07:00

Carson turned 9mos on April 21st. She is becoming such a big girl. She is crawling everywhere, gets up on her knees and is starting to say ma ma. She has been saying da da forever. Carson has always loved going to the doctor, but not today. She was not having any of it. She cried and cried until I picked her up. Dr Neese is so nice he just examined her while she was on my lap and she did a little bit better. She is developing great there is a few things we have to work on like peek a boo, and patty cake, and waving. She isn't cruising around furniture yet, but I think that is coming. Here is Carson's stats

weight - 18.9 45%

height - 28.5 81%

head - 47cm 99%

I always take pictures of Carson on her doctor's appt days. She got the cutest outfit from Jeff's Uncle Bob and Aunt Mary.

Easter

2009-04-13T18:40:00.000-07:00

We had a very busy Easter weekend. Saturday we headed to LaSalle to send the day with Jeff's parents and grandparents. Carson has become such a good little traveler. It is amazing how much a little person has to have for a one day trip. Sunday we hung out at home in the morning then headed to Glasford about 1pm. We ate at my aunt and uncles and had some great food. Then at 5 we went to Grandma Madge's to eat again. Carson was good all day and was getting kisses from all the little kids. Here is Carson in her pretty Easter dress.

April 7th

2009-04-07T13:44:00.000-07:00

Today is a big day for Carson and I. We start swimming lesson, and it is my 29th birthday. My whole family is gone traveling to warmer climates, and has left me here to freeze. Just joking!! They are all gone either to Alabama or Florida, but I don't know how much warmer it really is there. They will miss Carson in her pretty Easter dress, and it being her 1st Easter and all. I will make sure to take video.

We are very excited for swim lessons tonight. I'm sure Carson will love the water, because we have been taking her to the pool at Pearce in Chillicothe to get her ready for the bid day. Then I signed her up for sign language classes starting in May. Just so much to do while the weather is nice.

our little mover

2009-04-03T08:51:00.000-07:00

Carson is on the move. Yesterday was Jeff and I's 5Th wedding anniversary and boy did we get a present from Carson. She started crawling. He kind of looks like the tin man, but it is defiantly a crawl. I have it on video and everything. Jeff was away at school so I wanted to make sure he got to see it. So it looks like our little is growing up.

up date on carson

2009-03-25T11:21:00.000-07:00

Carson isn't really crawling, but she does this army crawl thing. She can get up on all fours rock back and forth, move backwards, and lunge forward. The whole moving forward on her hands and knees isn't really happening yet. She is a master in rolling and basically can get anything she wants by lunging forward and then rolling to whatever she wants. She knows how to say "dada" but no mama yet. I call her a trader. She has learned to hold her own bottle while feeding. I can put puffs on her tray and she can pick them up and feed herself. Last night was the first night I let her sleep with a blanket in bed. I am trying to teach her how to hold herself up on furniture, but that isn't going so well. Other than that she smiles a lot, babbles constantly, and is a great baby. Here is Carson's newborn pictures so you can see how much she has grown.

8mos pics

2009-03-19T18:36:00.001-07:00

St. Patricks Day Surprise

2009-03-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

Ok yesterday was St. Patricks Day and one of the best days our family has had since Carson has been around. I surprised Jeff and took the day off to spend with the family. We went to the St. Patty's Day parade, ate outside, played in the yard with Reese, Boh, and Tori, ate some ice cream (well Jeff and I did), and just had a great ole time. I wish everyday could be like that. Carson was great really enjoyed the weather and had fun playing in the yard. Here is pictures from our memorable day.

Sunday Fun

2009-03-15T18:56:00.001-07:00

We had a great Sunday at Carson's first Riverman game. We was so good and I think really enjoyed it. We went with people from my work which included Mandy, Bellla, Tori, Shaun, and Reese. Reese really got into the game and at the end sat down by the glass and started pounding on it like everyone else. She must have had a good impression on one of the players, because she got the game puck. It was a great time, and I got to see all my work friends babies who I don't get to see much. Afterwards Carson was so tired and ended up going to sleep at 7:30am. She wore the cutest outfit ever that my Aunt Tracy had bought her. Let me tell you she looked adorable. Here are the pictures.

Swimming

2009-03-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

I don't have any pictures, but we took Carson swimming for the first time. I have signed Carson and I up for swimming lesson starting April 7th (my b-day) at the River Plex. I cannot wait to see how well she does with the swimming thing. Jeff and I thought she would probably be great in the pool because she loves her bath, but you never now how kids will react. So Jeff and I thought it would be best to take her swimming before the swimming lesson start. In Chillicothe they have a facility called Piers that has an indoor pool at. Rachel and Adam have a membership there and take there kids swimming during the winter. We thought we would tag along so Carson could experience a pool before lessons start. She loved it. At first she seemed a little scared, but then she realized what was happening and started splashing around. She even got her face in the water and it didn't seem to bother her. I was so happy that things went well and I think swimming lesson will go well.

TOOTH

2009-03-03T10:02:00.000-08:00

We have a tooth. Carson's first tooth broke through the skin today. Jeff and I have been waiting for month for this to happen and it finally did. We are so excited.

birthdays, birthdays, birthdays

2009-03-01T19:45:00.000-08:00

We have four birthdays in the last 7 days. We had Boh's 1st b-day on Feb 25th, Tori's 24th on Feb 26th, Mandy's big 30 on March 1st, and Jeff's 29th on March 3rd. We had the best 30th party for Mandy. All friends and family were there to celebrate and we had a blast. Then on Sunday we had Boh's 1st birthday party. It was fun and we all enjoyed seeing everyone. Here are some pictures of the big 1st birthday party.

Bath Time

2009-02-27T10:11:00.000-08:00

Last night we went to visit Aunt Tor Tor, Reese, and Boh for Tori's birthday. The kids played while we ate pizza. Both Carson and Boh needed a bath before bedtime so we thought it would be cute if they just took one together.

Up Date

2009-02-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

We had a busy weekend and another one this weekend. Last weekend Jeff had class Friday, Sat., and Sun. I did take off Friday so we could spend the day together as a family. I ended up having to go to the doctor to get a mole removed (which came back fine) thank God. Friday night after Jeff got back from class I did venture off to have a drink with my sister's and mom for Tori's 24th b-day. It was fun, but ended up going home at 10:15pm to get some rest. Saturday Carson and I went to see Kik, and Jit and there two little girls. I love visiting friends and watching Carson enter act with other kids. They are all doing great and Millee there youngest was full of smiles and actually has two teeth. Carson still doesn't have any and Jeff and I are just waiting for it to happen. Saturday night after Jeff got back from school we went to see his cousin Erik, his wife, and there little girl (Isabella). Carson is about 2mos older than her and she isn't use to being the older one. So I think she was excited that she wasn't getting picked on. Sunday we had Colton's b-day party (my cousin's little boy) in glasford and got to hang out with the family. We stopped by my dad's on the way home and visited them.

Now this weekend we have tons of things to do. Saturday is Mandy's 30th b-day party and Sunday is Boh's 1 year b-day party. So things will be busy busy busy. Everyone is just hoping the weather starts turning nice.

Racing Season

2009-02-21T07:45:00.000-08:00

Racing season is right around the corner, and this year Carson will be joining us at the track. My dad races about 4-5 a year and we try to go watch as much as we can. Last year Carson was a little to young to go, but this summer she will be old enough. I know most people think she probably still a little young, but considering that I attending the races when I was probably 3mos old she will be fine. Jeff did decided to get her some hearing protector since me and my sister's have the worst hearing in the world and he is sure it was from going to watch my dad race. He is probably right. We don't care when are the loud family and proud of it. Carson loves her hot pink racing ear muffs. We put them on her when we got them and she loved it didn't even try to take them off. Know we just have to get some hot pink glasses to keep the dirt out of her eyes. She looks so cute.

Valentine's Day

2009-02-16T10:31:00.000-08:00

The weekend has came and went full of love, family, and sickness. Yes I am sick again knock on wood that Carson stays healthy. I guess you can say I am more of a functional sick. The only time I feel really bad is in the middle of the night. I wake up coughing for hours and cannot go back to bed. We did have a full weekend since Valentine's Day was on Saturday. Friday after I got home from work Tori and the kids came to visit. It was so much fun. Boh crawls around and pulls himself up, and Reese just talks and talks. They both love Yogi so much. Carson loved having her cousin over to visit.

Saturday we got up and got the kids ready in there Valentine's attire. Yes I said kids. We had Yogi's yearly check up for shots and he wore his red sweater to match Caron's red jump suite. Carson also sported her ruby red slippers and a lace headband. She was all dolled up for V-day. Yogi on the other hand after his shots was ready for Valentine's Day to be over. He could barely walk to lay down it was very pathetic to watch him. We didn't get any pictures of him with his sweater on because he didn't want to be bothered. He did have a good check up. He gained two pounds which bothers me a little bit, because little dogs cannot gain to much weight it isn't healthy for them. So we will have to watch that. Other than that he was great. After that we went to breakfast with my mom and had a great meal at Le Peep. For dinner Carson and I's Valentine (Jeff) took us to Aggie's for pizza. Carson was excellent at the restraint and ended up falling asleep on my lap.

Then on Sunday Grandma Beevo treated Jeff, Carson, and I to breakfast at Angie's in Creve Couer. Let me tell you it was great (good food and cheap). Then we headed out to my dad and Kathy's to watch the Daytona 500. We dressed Carson in racing style or as close to it as we could come. I started feel bad at my dad's so we headed home. Jeff had some homework to do and Carson loves it when her daddy is on the computer. She will just sit next to him and watch what he is doing. It is so cute. Here are some pictures from our weekend.

Carson sitting pretty in her Valentine's outfit.Carson is starting to know what a camera is.You can tell she has no teeth yet.

Carson and her daddy dressed for the race.Carson and her mommy ready "Gentleman start your engines"Doesn't she look like Ant JemimaIt doesn't matter how she is dressed she always look adorable.

Carson watching Daddy do homework.Carson turned around right after the picture above, because she knew I was taking her picture.

Nice Weekend

2009-02-11T12:01:00.000-08:00

We had the best weekend. Saturday was a great day with the family. Mandy, Bella, Mom, Tori, Boh, Reese, Jeff, Carson, and myself all went to lunch at Double A's Pizza. It was great all the kids behaved, the food was great, and weather was perfect. After pizza Jeff, Carson, and I went shopping at Grand Prairie. It wasn't really shopping just walking around enjoying the nice weather.

Then on Sunday the weather wasn't as nice so we ventured down to Jacksonville to visit my aunt. Well actually she is my great aunt. GiGi's (aka Beevo) sister Aunt Winnie turned 89 on Sunday so we went to see her as a surprise. Let me tell you she was surprised. She had never met Carson before and it had been years since Jeff and I last saw her. We love our Aunt Winnie. She is the greatest you wouldn't even be able to tell she is 89. Everyone is the family loves her she is the best. I love hearing stories of there lives and how they grew up. Here is a pic from our trip.

GiGi and Aunt Winnie (in the background you see pictures that Grandma Bishoff painted)

Super Bowl

2009-02-03T19:33:00.000-08:00

Football season is over. This is very disappointing to us, but I guess we will have to deal with it. Our household loves football and enjoy watching it on Sunday's. I remember the first game of the season was on Carson and Boh's Baptism it was a nice summer day. The Super Bowl on the other hand was cold but still enjoyable. We went to my father's to watch the game. Carson was a good little girl during it and ended up falling asleep at the end. Next is racing season. We don't watch much of racing, but my dad does so I'm sure we will be going to Glasford to keep him company a few Sunday's.

Jeff has started the new semester and is getting into the grove of going to school at night. It is nice because he is home with Carson all day and I'm with her at night. I do think she is getting a little spoiled with having one of us home all the time. We are all ready for nice weather. So is Yogi. I think he is ready to run around outside and get some fresh air. I think that it is suppose to 50 this weekend so that will be like a heat wave.

Where is Spring

2009-01-29T11:39:00.000-08:00

Carson is ready for Spring and Summer. She is sick of the cold weather just like her mother. We want to go swimming and play outside. Yogi is also sick of being cooped up inside the house. He wants to run free outside.

Carson received the cutest swim suites from Australia from her aunt and uncle. We are ready to put them on and get some sun. We had a little night of dress-up. Here are the results.

PS Carson also got to drink her first Apple Juice last night. Also she got to use her first sippy cup.

Doesn't look to happy does she.

6mos

2009-01-24T07:34:00.000-08:00

Well Carson's is 6mos as of Jan 21st. We went to the doctor on Friday and of course said she was doing wonderfully. She is growing and meeting all her activity goals. He said we can start her on stage II baby food and she can have table food.

Her weight was 16.2 53%
Her height was 27in 80%
Lets just say her head is still in the 97%

After we took her to the doctor Friday her and daddy came to visit everyone at mommies work. We had Carson looking very patriotic she wear a pink "Obama Baby" onsie that my step mom bought for her. She also had on her pink boots that Grandma Becker brought her back from Australia. We look so cute.

Special Days

2009-01-20T19:16:00.000-08:00

Our daughter is so smart she knows excellence when she sees it. Also I am also posting pictures of her crazy hair now.

President Obama!!!

2009-01-20T10:29:00.000-08:00

We have a new President!!!!

Today I went to work knowing that history was going to be made. Our work nicely let us get on and watch the swearing in of the new President. It gave me goose bumps watching it happen. I didn't cry which I was proud of myself. I told Jeff to make sure Carson watched it, and to take a picture of her so when she grows up she knows she was alive during a historical day in our country.

Getting Big

2009-01-08T15:50:00.000-08:00

Carson is getting so big it is amazing how fast it goes by. She eats baby food twice a day now, and has learned to sit up by herself. She is getting good at it. She catches herself when she starts falling over.

Jeff is doing so good in school. He is finishing his minimester tomorrow, and starts UIS in a week.

Yogi is also doing great. He turns 4 next Wednesday.

Carson wanting more food.

Carson sitting up all by herself.

Christmas

2009-01-05T16:05:00.000-08:00

I know it is a little late, but I wanted to share some pictures of Carson on her 1st Christmas and New Years.

Christmas was very busy but doable. We got to see everyone and enjoy time with them. We did miss cousin Ava, Uncle Jason, and Aunt Chaille being there to celebrate Carson's first Christmas. We did get to talk to them over skype and that was nice. I think Santa was very good to Ava she got a lot of nice things.

It was also cousin Boh's first Christmas to. So him and Carson got to experience there first Christmas together. Even though we didn't actually see them on that day we still knew he was as excited as Carson.

New Years of course is a lot different now having a 5 mos old, but it was still fun. We went over to Carson's best friends house Leah and Noah's house. They played together while the parents sat around and talked. We enjoyed spending time with the Murphy's.

Also the pictures from New Years features clothes from Australia that Carson got from her great relatives over there.

Carson on Christmas Eve at Grandma and Grandpa Becker's.Carson with the doll she got for Christmas.

Carson in her pretty Christmas dress.

All dressed up for her first New Years

Carson with her two friends Leah and Noah
The girls getting ready to put there pj's on.

pictures

2008-12-19T13:01:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from our Holiday gatherings last weekend.

I had to put this one in of Boh and my mom. He is just getting so big.

Is Christmas Here Yet!

2008-12-16T14:44:00.000-08:00

Well Christmas hasn't arrived, but this weekend it sure seemed like it. Friday night we had a winter wonderland walk at the Forrest Park Nature Center. The forrest was lit up with candles and they had a fire going, and inside they had people singing. It was very nice. Carson enjoyed it I believe. We bundled her up so much I'm sure she was sweating, except her face got a little red. Then Saturday we had Christmas with my mom's family at my grandma's house. It was nice almost everyone was there, and there was presents to go around. We have 7 kids under the age of 2 1/2 at my grandma's house when it comes to holiday's. Let me tell you it is pure craziness. Carson was good and her outfit (that Jeff's cousin bought for her) was a huge hit. My mom bought a berra for her and it went with the outfit perfectly and everyone loved it. Then Sunday we had Christmas at my moms. In the past we would all go to my sister Mandy's on Christmas morning and open presents we bought for Bella and my mom bought for us. As long as I can remember my sister's and I don't buy for each other. With Tori and I have children now we don't go to Mandy's anymore so we did Christmas with all the cousin early. It was fun my mom had great food and the kids were great.

So even though Christmas isn't here yet we are already enjoying the Christmas Spirit.

I know I haven't said much about Jeff and school lately, but he is doing great. He of course is getting all A's and is still tutoring Accounting at ICC. He has started his minimester and seems to enjoy it. He has 4 classes next semester so that will be a challenge, but I know he will be up for it.

Rolling Over

2008-12-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

Our baby is rolling over. She has been rolling from her belle to her back since she was about 3 1/2mos, but just last week she rolled from her back to her belle. It is a big accomplishment, because it is hard getting all that weight over. We all gave her kisses even Yogi and she knew she did something good. Carson is getting so big. I cannot believe how fast she grows. She already wears 6-9mos clothes, and she isn't even 5mos yet. The one thing I'm happy about is that her hair continues to grow. She only has lost a patch in the back, but the rest of her head is covered with hair. We brush it after her bath, but when she wakes up in the morning she has bed head. My sister Tori who watches her always is cracking up at Carson's hair, because it sticks straight up and then does this little loop thing at the top.

Christmas is right around the corner a luckily Jeff and I are done with our Christmas shopping, except for a run to the bank. I am trying to get into the Christmas spirit, but it is hard with all the bad weather.

Well everyone stay safe.

Winter is here

2008-12-01T14:31:00.001-08:00

I guess we all have to face it Winter has arrived. Most of you know how much I hate winter and hate the snow, but living in Il you just have to deal with it. Christmas is also approaching, which most you also know is my least favorite holiday of the year. It isn't that I don't like the true meaning of Christmas, but the other stuff that goes along makes it just ridiculous. Plus Christmas is right in the middle of winter. I probably like it a lot better if it was in the summer. Christmas to me is usually about running around from family to family and not spending much time at each house because you have like 4 places to go. Well Jeff and I decided with having Carson that we are not going to do that anymore. Luckily my Grandma Madge has her Christmas early so my mom's family we get to spend all day with a couple weeks before Christmas. Then Jeff and I made the decision that one year Christmas Eve we spend with his family and Christmas with mine, and then we switch the next year. Then who ever gets us on Christmas day doesn't get us on Thanksgiving. So we will spend Thanksgiving every other year with our families. We just decided that is to much running around with having a little one. Christmas morning we will spend at our house just the four of us. It will be so nice this year not having to get up and run to someones house. It will be Carson's first Christmas. She isn't getting much from us just a couple of gifts. She really doesn't even know it is Christmas anyway. In the future she will get more, but only one present comes from Santa the rest is from Jeff and I. That is a rule Jeff and I made. It will teach her that Santa has so many children to give to we shouldn't ask him for to much. We were going to go sit on Santa's lap Saturday in Glasford, but the breakfast times were either to early or to late. So we will just have to find a Santa somewhere else.

Pictures

2008-11-25T15:23:00.000-08:00

Carson's 4mos pictures.

4mos

2008-11-21T13:04:00.000-08:00

Carson turned 4mos today. We had her doctor's apt and she is doing great. The doctor actually said she is perfect. I had a few questions and he answered them all. Jeff was worried she wasn't grow, but she is growing just like normal. Her stats are:

Head: 44cm 95%

Weight: 13.8 pounds 48%

Height: 25.75 inches 95%

So basically she is just like her daddy tall and skinny.

HALLOWEEN!!!

2008-11-09T14:18:00.000-08:00

Carson's first Halloween went off without a hitch. She was a lady bug, and a very cute one may I add. We went to Glasford for the parade and to pass out candy at my dad's. Kathy made great soup and salad for everyone since it is also my father's birthday and everyone comes over after trick-or-treating. Tori, Shaun, and the kids were also there to join in on the fun. Reese was a bumble bee and Boh was a lobster. Reese helped pass out candy and it was so adorable. I think this was the first Halloween in a long time we had such great weather. We sat outside and passed the candy out. It was just so beautiful. I was happy Carson's first Halloween wasn't freezing cold so we could enjoy the parade and the night in general.

Also yesterday 11-8-8 Carson rolled over for the first time. She rolled from her belle to her back twice. She did it once at home and once at Rachel and Adams house. So it was nice someone else got to see her do it besides us. She is getting very close to rolling from her back to her belle. She almost gets over, but just cannot quite do it. I think that arm gets stuck and she gives up. We are just happy she rolled over.

Here are some pictures from Halloween. I am going to post a hilarious pictures of Boh. He is teething and loves anything cold on his gums.

Yogi also came with us to the parade, he was a skeleton.

We start them young in our family.

VICTORY FOR CHANGE!!!!!

2008-11-05T14:20:00.000-08:00

I have always been proud to be an American, but today I am prouder than I ever been. I feel like we only have good things ahead of us and that our country is going to change for the better. I feel like my daughter has a better future ahead of her and will be happy that she was born into this great country. Last night was scary, exciting, and fun all balled into one event. President Obama doesn't that just sound like music to your ears. I want to give props to my two aunts Debbie and Lori and my cousin Lindsey. They worked so hard campaigning in MO going house to house fighting for change that this country needs. Even though McCain won the state only by a tiny margin showed there efferts where not unheard. Jeff, Carson, and I stayed in Glasford until about 11:30pm which is way past Carson's bed time, but history was made and we were not going to miss a thing. She did fall asleep for about 2 1/2 hours, but was smart enough to wake right before Obama's speach. Let me tell you Carson is one inteliagant girl she just listened to his speach like she really knew what he was saying. She staired at the TV in amazement. I was just so happy that I got to watch a historical moment in this country happen sitting around my loving family. It will be a day, a hour, a minute, a moment I will never forget.

Carson vs Yogi

2008-10-24T14:21:00.001-07:00

OK I know this may sound strange but there isn't to much difference in puppies and babies if you think about it. They both don't sleep through the night until there about 2mos old (long for some children). You have to basically potty train both. They both require naps. They both growl, yes that is what I said they both growl. Carson a couple days ago started to growl. Let me tell you it is the cutest and funniest thing ever. She will do it on demand too. Jeff will growl at her and she growls right back. We are guessing she hears my nephew Boh make a similar noise and just does what he does. Jeff and I just crack up when she does it. Also when Yogi was a puppy the vet told me if I wanted him to do something (like wear clothes) start when he is a puppy, because then as an adult he won't know any different. I figured that would be a good rule for Carson also. So the other day I decided she needed to wear sneakers over to Tori's. I just want her to get use to wearing something on her feet so when she gets older it won't be such a battle. Jeff took some pictures to commemorate the experience. The shoes come from my niece Reese. She only wore them once Tori said, or maybe they were Boh's I don't remember. I actually thought they were given to us by Chaille, but that was wrong too. So who knows who's they are.

Carson sitting next to Mommy before she goes to work.

The expression on her face is priceless.

She looks scared to death in this pic.

Yogi mad at Mommy because he's trying to nap.

He is really mad now.

3mos

2008-10-21T11:38:00.000-07:00

Ms. Carson is 3mos today. She's growing like a weed, and getting her own little personality. She is not feeling to good the last couple of days. She is getting a bit of a cold, but it is just that time of year. She is still sleeping through the night and we hope it continues that way. It is funny how babies schedules change. Once you get use to their schedule they decided to do something different. Carson use to get up about every three hours when we first brought her home. Which I'm not complaining, because I know some babies get up every hour when you first bring them home. Then we went to just twice a night, and then to once a night, and then to sleeping through the night. It is also strange how the times they decided to go to bed move up also. We use to put Carson down about 10pm for bed, then it went up to 9pm, but now I cannot keep her up past 8:30pm. I think she just gets so tired from the day that she needs her sleep. She wakes anytime between 5:30am-6:30am so that is good for me and Jeff. It is crazy how she started sleeping through the night as soon as I went back to work. I guess we are just lucky. The one thing I am very proud of is that Carson has always slept in her own bed. When she was about two weeks old there were a few night I let her sleep on my chest on the couch in the middle of the night, because she refused to go back to sleep (and let me tell you at that point you will do anything to get a little sleep). Jeff was worried we were starting a bad habit, but we had no problem breaking it. On the weekends I will get her up in the morning to lay with us in bed, but that has more to do with me then her. I just like snuggling with her, and at 5:30am she is up for snuggling.

People always ask me when we think we'll have another one. Actually that will probably be never. I guess I just have never been someone that wanted multiple children. Jeff said he really isn't set on having another one. Considering when we first got married we didn't want any children so it isn't really a big deal for Jeff and I to only want one.

The weather is getting cold and I hate it. I wish it was summer all year around.

Misc Information

2008-10-12T19:00:00.000-07:00

I think it must be a month for busy weekends. This weekend we had a football game, my friend's 30th b-day party, and a trip to glasford. The football games was way to hot, but we had fun. The 30th b-day party was great. We got to see a lot of people we haven't for years, and there was about as many kids as adults there. We had a blast in glasford, except the Bears losing. We did get to go to the local firehouse for an open house. My youngest cousin is a volunteer fireman and we went to support the department. It was a lot of fun. I got to see my cousins on both sides of the family and everyone got to see Carson. It got a little hot so Jeff, Carson, and I headed for home. Other than that nothing much has been happening.

I do have to say my adorable nephew Boh won a cutest baby contest and his picture was in the National Enquirer. I know that may sound weird, but his grandma sent in his picture because they were having a cutest baby contest and he won. So is picture was in the magazine and they won some money for it. Kathy said I should send in the picture of Carson with the mo hawk. She is sure it would win. Halloween is coming which is also my father birthday so we will be heading to g-town. Basically that is what all Halloween's will consist of. It is the one holiday that will always be dedicated to one family and that is my dad's. I remember Halloween's from when I was a kid and we would go trick or treating and come back and have cake and ice cream for his birthday. It is funny how times change know we still spend Halloween with him, but help pass the candy out. Carson is going to be a lady bug.

Carson got the cutest book for her baptism from Jeff's cousin and his wife. It is a book of 100 Bible stories. So about two or three times a week I read her about two or three stories a night. We just listens to me and looks at the pictures. She doesn't know what she is looking at or understands what I'm saying, but I think it will be good in the future. Maybe she will really like reading when she gets older. Well I will post some random pictures for everyone to see.

My adorable nephew that won the cutest baby contest.

Daddy sleeping during story time.

Carson has this patch of hair on the top of her head that we call her toupee. The toupee is getting long and know can be brushed forward, but normally it is going every which way on her head.

Mommy snuggling with her two babies. When Carson is on my lap sleeping or just snuggling Yogi will come lay with us, but has to have his head laying somewhere on Carson's body. He uses her as a pillow.

pictures

2008-10-07T13:52:00.001-07:00

Here are the pictures I promised to post.

My nieces (Reese and Bella) eating some popcorn.

Don't they look beautiful

Bella loves her MiMi

Look at all those kids, and there is even one missing

What a cute family

This is an even cuter family.

The most beautiful baby in the world

Bella loving on her cousin Boh

Busy Weekend

2008-10-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend was very busy. We had several things going on. First Friday night we went to a party at Peoria Day Surgery and had some hot dogs and drinks. It was the first time Carson got to wear her purple snow suit, because the party was outside. She had a good time I think. All my mom's kids and grand kids where there so my mom was in heaven. Mandy took some cute pictures so I'll have to get them from her and post them soon.

Then on Saturday we had Bella because Mandy had to go to a wedding four hours away. So Bella got to spend the night with us, and let me tell you I don't think she had much fun. This may be the last time she stays until Carson gets a little bit older. Carson didn't take her morning nap so she was hell on wheels the whole day. Nothing made her happy she fussed all most the whole day, except when Jeff was around. It was almost like she was mad at me and only wanted Jeff. Bella and I did take her shopping all day and she only slept for about 30min to an hour, but I had to return her Halloween outfit that she already out grew. So after Jeff got home I took Bella to Apple Blossom and then I got home and Jeff took her to get pizza. I didn't want Bella to have to deal with a screaming child. I think all in all Bella was happy when MiMi came and picked her up the next day.

Sunday was a long day. Jeff, Carson, and I got ready to head up to Peru to see Jeff's parents. Luckily Carson was great and slept on the way up there. Once we got there she slept for about another hour, and then was ready for her bottle. She did throw a fit after that, but Jeff got her to calm down and she was good the rest of the time at the house. We all went to dinner with Jeff's family (mom, dad, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc) the whole troop. Carson was great at dinner and actually let me eat without having to hold her. On the way home she really only cried for about 10min and the rest of the time was fine. By the time we got home she was ready for bed. Let me tell you I have been one luckily lady having a child sleep through the night. Lets just hope it stays that way.

One more things GO BEARS!!! I think Sunday was the best I have ever seen them play.

YOGI

2008-09-28T19:36:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't written much about Yogi lately, but he is still around. He really hasn't been up to much. I think he really misses Carson and I being home all day, but he is starting to get use to the new schedule. He is actually not home alone that much with Jeff being off on Friday's and getting home early on Tues and Wednesdays. The biggest change for him is learning that not everything is his to play with. He wants to chew on all her things, and we have to tell him no a lot. He also is really into licking her, and we do have to monitor that because I believe he would lick her face off if we let him. I am posting some random pictures.

Yogi trying not to get into trouble.
Carson sporting her new Bears outfit. GO BEARS!!!

Carson kicking it in her Purdue outfit.

Jeff gave Carson a mohawk at bath time. (now that she has enough hair)

Shots/Back to Work

2008-09-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

Monday was Carson's first set of shots. She received three, one in left thigh, and two in right thigh. I don't really understand why they just don't give them all in one leg, but I'm sure there is a reason. She did great for having pain inflected on her. It was like she didn't even know it was coming that's because she didn't. She screamed for about 2 minutes after the shots and then was fine. We went home and gave her Tylenol every four hours and she was her happy little self.

I also went back to work Tuesday (the day after the shots). I was so worried Carson was going to be fussy for Tori since she had just gotten the shots the day before, but no she was great. I think Carson likes going over there, because there is other kids for her to look at. Notice I didn't say play with, because that she doesn't know how to do yet. Boh and Reese just adore her and either want to hold her or play with her. Tori says Boh and Carson just look at each other and laugh. I love the thought of her growing up with her cousins and being close with them, mostly because it will be more then likely Carson will be an only child. Tori told me that Carson will have to be a tomboy because boy needs someone to play with (he is always surrounded by women, just call him Ed). I told her that will most likely happen because I am not very girly, and Boh is the closest to Carson's age so that is who she will be closes too.

I just hope everything keeps going the way it is going, and Carson stays a good little girl for her aunt tor tor. She did sleep through the night last night, but I'm not counting on that happening every night.

Work is going good. It is like riding a bike you never forget how to do your job.

Shake, Rattle, and Roll

2008-09-21T18:36:00.000-07:00

Okay I have a lot to blog this time around. Today (Sept 21) not only is it Carson's 2mos birthday, but it was the Shake Rattle, and Roll. This is a fundraiser to bring awareness to Parkinson's disease. It was a long day, but a fun one. Jeff was in charge of the bag toss tournament, which went very well. As most of you know from earlier blogs that my family does a lot to raise money for Parkinson's research, since it is a genetic disease and runs in my family.

First I want to say how bummed I was that my step mom, Kathy, was sicker than a dog and couldn't make it to the event. I felt so sorry for her she was soooooooooo sick and not only did she miss the fundraiser, but Saturday was her birthday (and she had been sick since Friday). It just sucks, because all 7 of her grand kids were there and I would have loved to get a picture of her and my dad with all the kids. I think she is feeling better day by day. Plus she didn't get to see Carson sport her Obama onesie that she bought her. Carson and I were the best dressed there I do have to say myself. We had our Obama gear on.

Second I want to say how awesome my aunts are. My Aunt Debbie helped a lot and when I say a lot I mean a lot to get this Shake, Rattle, and Roll up and running this year. My Aunt Lori and Uncle Chuck came from MO to help also, which was great because we don't get to see them that much. Aunt Debbie was one of the director's this year for the event and put a lot of heart into it. She is a wonderful lady and has the kindest heart. Carson would be Debbie's great niece and my aunt treats her like her own grandchild. Aunt Debbie and Uncle Terry have three boys, we all grew up together and it was more like they were my brother's then my cousins. We are still very close. Her oldest, Brent, has the cutest little girl Josie that I just love . It was just nice that we could all get together for the Parkinson's walk and do something for a good cause.

I would also like to thank my mom for coming to help out with all the kids. Here are some pictures of us at The Parkinson's walk.

Here is Carson in her kick butt Obama onesie.

Aunt Lori and Aunt Debbie after a hard day at work.

Everyone gathered around a 13in t.v watching the Bears game and eating ice cream.

Carson and me looking awesome in our Obama shirts.

My two favorite men in all the world Jeff and Dad.

Kim, Sarah, Bella, and Mandy selling tickets.

8 week check-up

2008-09-18T16:31:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was Carson's doctor's appt. Our little ones head is 40cm. and in the 85% for her head. Her weight is 10pds 10oz and is in the 57% for that, and height is 23.4ins and is in the 82% for that. So she is what we already knew tall and skinny. She did great and didn't even cry. She loves our doctor and when he talks to just listen to him. Her shots are Monday and I'm not looking forward to it. Luckily Jeff and I will be doing it together as a team. Wish us luck!!!

Baptism

2008-09-12T19:52:00.001-07:00

Sunday was Carson's Baptism. Her and my nephew Boh got Baptized together, and after words everyone came to Jeff and I's house for a party. It was a lot of fun, and I think everyone had a good time. The Baptism went great both Boh and Carson were angels during it. Jeff and I have the honor to be Boh's Godparents and Tori is Carson's Godmother. Jason (Jeff brother) is the Godfather, but with him living out of the country my Uncle stepped in and helped out. It was a great day and it was just a blessing to see all our family there supporting our two little ones.

Cousins

2008-09-12T19:30:00.000-07:00

The time is nearing for me to go back to work. I know most moms dread it, but I'm okay with getting back into somewhat of a normal routine. Staying home is like living in a dream land or another universe. You get to sleep in, do your house work during the day, and watch your t.v shows. That is not normal life for me or Jeff. It is time to get Carson started on a different schedule of going to the baby sitter early in the morning, and hanging out with her cousins. I am lucky enough to have my little sister be the one to watch our daughter. Most women have to send there children to a daycare where you don't really know the person watching your child and don't know how they are being taken care of. I know that Tori is a wonderful mother and a great aunt. Carson has been over there many times and knows the surroundings pretty well. Tori actually watched her for me the other day when I went to the doctor and she did great. Reese (tori's oldest) basically wanted to take care of her the whole time. We do let Reese hold Carson on the couch so ever time I go over there Reese says "Me hold Aunt Sissy, me hold". So we always say sit on the corner of the couch and put your arm out and she does. Carson just sits their in her lap while Reese usually watches t.v. If Carson starts kicking her legs Reese just gives her a little pat on the leg and goes back to watching t.v. We always tell Reese "give Carson kisses", and she does. It is so cute.

I had my last play date with Jeff's cousin's wives before one has her baby and the other moves back home before moving to Texas. Kim (the one moving to Texas) has a little girl Addison, and she also got to hold Carson during the visit. I just love watching little kids hold baby. It makes them look like little adults.

Here are some pictures of Reese, Carson, and Boh.

Bath Time

2008-08-24T15:44:00.001-07:00

When we brought Carson home bath time wasn't the funniest time in the world. Now it is a different story. Jeff gives her all her baths so I don't have much to do with the process. So I cannot take any create for her liking her baths now. I did take some pictures the other day while he was giving her a bath. Most babies bath time makes them tired, but no not our child. She is usually wide awake after bath time for hours. So she gets her baths in the morning. Then by bedtime she is out for the count.

GO OBAMA

2008-08-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

As most of you know our family (my dad, Kathy, Aunt Debbie, etc) are huge Obama fans. He started off his campaign Saturday in Springfield and my dad, Kathy, and Debbie where there to support him. The Democratic Convention starts Monday in Denver Colorado. My dad, Kathy, and grandma will be heading there on Wednesday. They don't have tickets to get in, but they are just going for the atmosphere. Jeff calls it the Super Bowl for politicians. I'm sure there will be bars packet with people. I told Kathy if she could I would love an Obama onesie for Carson. They sell them on his website. At first they were sold out of them. So being the wonderful grandmother she is she found another one on the Internet. Even though she had already found one she kept checking the Obama website to see if they had the original Obama onesie back in stock. About three weeks ago she struck gold and they were back in stock. So she ordered Carson one. I was so excited I couldn't wait to take her picture in it. It is still a little big so I just laid it over the top of her and took her picture. I took a picture with both of the them that she bought. I cannot wait til she gets a little bit bigger so she can wear them.

fun at aunt Tor Tor's house

2008-08-19T20:28:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I ventured out to see Tori and the kids today. We needed to take some pictures of Boh and Carson together. We realized that all four of the grand kids where there under the same roof so we decided to take pictures of all them together. It was a little more challenging then we thought, but we ended up getting it done. There was parts of the photo shoot that Tori and I couldn't stop laughing. Let me tell you trying to get two infants, and an almost two year old to all smile at the same time is a challenge. Luckily my oldest niece is 9 and we don't have to worry about her smiling. Bella helps out with the little ones and just keeps smiling so she is ready whenever they are. Sometimes a feel a little sorry for Bella having all her cousins under the age of two, but I think she likes it most of the time. Bella is very luckily though because she has three step cousins that are all around her age, and when they are around she has someone to play with.
Here are a few pictures from today.

Family Abroad

2008-08-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Most of you know my brother-in-law and his family are living abroad in Australia. They finally received there air shipment, which means there computer arrived. Even though there was a minor set back with Jason blowing it up do to the voltage being different over there then here. They ended up having to get there power supply replaced. After that was all said and done the there computer is up and running which means we can talk to them over the computer now and see them through our web cam. It was so nice seeing Ava and hearing her little voice, and Jason and Chaille also. They are doing good and getting use to life over there. This morning after Carson ate at 6:30am (in Australia it would be 9:30pm) we called them over the computer so they could see her. It has been 3 weeks since they have seen her. Carson has gotten a lot bigger and her looks have changed. we are so happy for technology that we get to see and talk to them while they are over there. I cannot wait until Carson is old enough to understand what is going on.

I added a picture of Ava so everyone could see how cute she is.

nice weather

2008-08-08T18:29:00.001-07:00

Well Carson and I ventured out today to visit MiMi at her work and go to my work to see my co-workers I haven't seen lately. It was just such a nice day I just couldn't imagine sitting inside all day long. While I was at my mom's work I decided to see how much I weigh. I knew I had lost a lot of weight after she was born, but i never could imagine what i had actually lost. I have lost 30 pounds since she was born. That to me is amazing. I just have to keep it off now, which I think I will do because having a new baby you don't have time to eat much.

Things are going good around the house. Jeff is back to work and will be starting school this month. Yogi is doing so great with Carson. In the morning I always set her in her boppy after I feed her and Yogi comes and lays right next to her and takes a nap. I know they will be the best of friends when she gets older.

If anyone is wondering how my brother-in-law and his family are doing in Australia things are going good. They are in there house now and just waiting for the air and sea shipments to get in. We miss Ava so much I cannot wait for them to get there computer so we can see her and hear her little voice.

pictures

2008-08-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

2 week check up

2008-08-04T19:44:00.000-07:00

we had her two week check up today. she weighs 8 pds 8 onc and is 20 3/4 inches long. she is in the 56% weight and 70% for height. Her head is in the 67%. Things are looking great. She is growing and looking good said the doctor. Her belle button thing fell off and that looks great also. i will post some pictures soon.

She's Here

2008-07-29T17:44:00.000-07:00

Well after 31 hours of labor our little Carson is finally here. She arrived on July 21st at 7:08 am. She weighed 7 pounds 9 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long. Jeff was wonderful through the whole very long process. I could never had made it through without him. I also had wonderful nurses that were there through it all. We have been home for a week and things are going well. She sleeps about 3 hours straight a night and lets hope it stays that way if not get better. It is unbelievable how bright eyed she is during the day. She just looks around and takes her new world in. Yogi is doing great with her. We do have to monitor his licking, but let him get his kisses in through out the day. When i feed her he is always laying above my head making sure we are okay. Jeff took a week off, but did have to go back to work today. It was hard to see him go after being with him for 8 days straight I knew I would miss him. I did okay though. My mom took this week off to be here if needed so. So she came over today to keep me company and help with the baby. Most people know that I'm not that mobile yet. I had a very ruff labor and delivery so getting around has been a challenge for me, luckily Carson has been a great baby. She is very laid back.

On a sad note my brother -in-law, sister-in-law, and niece left for Australia Sunday. They were here for a whole week after Carson's arrival. It was very emotional to see them leave. I miss them already. They made it safely.

Here are some pictures of Carson.

Quick Note

2008-07-18T07:11:00.001-07:00

I went to the doctor Tuesday and found out that I will be going in Sunday to have the baby. I don't know when she'll actually arrive that day, but it should be Sunday. I really had not progressed much, but she is a big girl. So things are looking good. Wish us luck and please pray for us.

Thanks
Stevie, Jeff, Yogi, and Soon Carson

Nearing the end

2008-07-09T14:29:00.000-07:00

We had another doctor's appt today. Things look good. Carson is growing and is very healthy, and I'm doing good. We will go back to the doctor next week and see how things are.

Jeff's finals are coming up, and I'm sure he will do great on them. Other than that nothing much.

3 weeks left

2008-07-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

Okay it wasn't until this week that I was ready to have this baby. Before I was kind of like whatever, but as time has progressed this week anytime would be fine. We went to the doctor yesterday I did gain about 3 pounds so that was good (I guess). I am dilated to a 1 and about 50% thinned. So at least nothing is going on. I'm just glad something is happening. I have been having some pain, but nothing unusual for being 8mos along. My ankles and feet are swelling and the doctor says to keep them up after I get off work. I will do my best is all I could say. We did cancel our 3rd of July party (so I hope no one is mad) we thought it would be to much (jeff, doctor, and I). I hate my ankles this way, it seems like the only part of my body that got big was my belle then my ankles started in. Lets hope that goes down after she arrives along with my belle. The one good thing is that I have such an awesome husband that helps out. I try to do as much as I can, but vacuuming is now his task. It hurts my back way to much. Jeff always gives me back messages whenever I ask, and gets me what I need when asked. So lets just say I wouldn't have gotten through this pregnancy without him being there for me so much. Jeff has also finished the nursery completely and it looks awesome. He did such a great job on it. It is already for her to come home.

I haven't said much about Jeff and his schooling so I'll give you an update. After all Jeff has been doing at home preparing for Carson he has had two classes this summer. He had a 4 week theatre class that just ended, which he received an "A" in. Then he has his stats class which he received a "B" on his first test. His next test is Monday, and then the last one is right when I'm due. So lets hope I go a little early.

Yogi is also doing great and ready for his sister to come home.

Not to much longer

2008-06-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was another doctor's appt for us, and everything went good. I gained a half pound so that puts me up to 5 1/2 pounds for the pregnancy. I think it worries everyone, but me and my doctor. The truth is the baby is gaining weight, I'm not. So basically she is sucking me dry. I cannot eat that much because I fill up so fast, she is sitting on my stomach or somthing. I probably have about 3 1/2 weeks left so the clock is ticking. Jeff and I realize that we have a lot to do before this baby comes. Lucky the nursery is done and most everything is washed. The child has more clothes than I do. Plus we have tons of wash cloths, socks, blankets, burp rags, and binkies. I had a work shower this week and got some great stuff so I was excited about that. Other than that nothing much to report. I may know more next week.

Father's Day

2008-06-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

As you all know Sunday was Father's Day. I love Father's Day, because that means I get to see my dad. He lives in Glasford and we live in Peoria and with gas prices we don't go back and forth much. So Sunday was great, because all fo us (Mandy, Tori, Reese, Boh, Yogi, Jeff and myself) jumped in my dad's big van and drove down to Astoria to my aunt and uncle's land. Tori's kids were excellent in the car, which I know she was worried about, but no problems there. Jeff drove so my dad could sit back with us and talk. Everyone enjoyed the day and had some laughs. Next time I know not to let Mandy drive the golf cart. Jeff and I thought we were going to die. We had great food that my uncle and aunt made and everyone else brought some side dishes. The storm went through and almost blow everyone away, but in Astoria we didn't get it to bad (nothing like Glasford). My uncle, his son, and two grandson's were also there and those boys are so cute. It was just a nice day to all spend together.

Doc Appt

2008-06-13T15:01:00.000-07:00

We had a doctor's appt this week and things are looking good. His only concern is that my hemaglobin is a 9 so we will have to work on that before I go into labor. Jeff is doing great, and so is Yogi. Mandy, Bella, my dad, and kathy just got back from Alabama and I'm happy there got home safely. They had a great time. I do have to say that my little niece Reese fell off her grandma glenda's counter last weekend and broke her arm in two places so she is in a hot pink cast right now. Reese is being a trooper about it. I just feel sorry for her in all this heat to have to wear that thing. Other than that things are coming along.

Australia Bound

2008-06-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

Well most of you already know, but my brother-in-law, Jason, and sister-in-law, Chaille, and our beautiful niece Ava are moving to Australia in a few months. Chaille works for CAT and has been transferred there for a few years. It was a decision her and Jason made together to accept the assignment there, Jeff and I would have also said "YES" in a second. I heard it was such a beautiful country and it will be a great experience for both them and Ava. I just cannot wait to hear Ava's accent when she comes back, it'll be so cute. Those of you that know Ava know she already talks like a five year old so the accent will probably be heavy.

They just got back from house hunting there and found a beautiful home to live in. Ave stayed home with Chaille's parents in Iowa, because a 20 hour flight is a little much for a 2 year old (for just a week visit). Plus they had a busy schedule with looking at homes, I don't think Ave would have had that much fun. The day care is close to home and they have an indoor outdoor pool in the area where they live. We just can't wait to go visit them, hopefully they have mastered the driving before then. hahaha!

We went to see them last night and they seemed like they were happy with how the trip went. I think it was load off there shoulders that they found a place to live and one that is so perfect.

They brought back the cutest onesie for Carson that I believe Jason picked out himself. We were so happy to see the family and know they got home safely. We will miss them while they are gone, but are very excited for there new adventure in life.

31 weeks

2008-05-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

We had doctor's appt yesterday with a sonogram. We found out the baby is head down, which is good. She also weighs about 4 pounds 9 ounces, which is fine, but scares me a little bit. I think that is big for having 2 months to go. Other than that everything is going along fine. I have some trouble sleeping at night, but that is to be expected. The babies room is 95% finished, and will be done soon.

Jeff is doing great in school. He just finished his minimester and will start summer classes on Monday. He will also be starting his tutoring job next week. All the accounting tutors left this summer and Jeff's teacher was so impressed by him he asked if you could tutor 20 hours a week at ICC. So he will be doing that and working at Gold Discount this summer.

I will be posting a pictures of how Yogi loves to take a nap while listen to his sister's heart beat. Also I will post a picture of Carson's foot and her yawning.

Yogi

2008-05-19T13:42:00.000-07:00

This weekend Jeff and I learned a very valuable lesson about our wonderful dog. When Carson arrives he is basically going to want all her toys. Sunday Jeff and I went over to Tori's to see everyone, and brought Yogi with us. While we were there I gave Reese a bath so Tori could tend to Boh (Shaun is at his last week of school). It was probably the most fun I have had with her. Yogi joined us in the bathroom, and of course wanted the rubber ball in the tub. All he did was wine until I had to tell Jeff to come get him. So we learned that when our child gets older and starts having toys in the bath we will have to get seperate toys (and act like they are hers) for him so he has something to play with. He is such a good dog and we know he will love his little sister so much. I'm sure the first thing he will do is lick her all over her face when he sees her.

Weekend Fun

2008-05-14T13:33:00.001-07:00

Last weekend Jeff and I and Yogi had visitors of the best kind. My little sister and her two children came over to see us. Yogi loves when the kids come to play. We ate lunch together and Reese and Boh played in Carson's crib. They tested it out to make sure everything was safe for her arrival. Reese loved all the stuffed animals in the crib, and made sure to share them with her baby brother. Yogi wanted to join in the fun so I let him lay on the changing table while the kids played. He looked at them like he wanted to be in the crib with them. I thought it would be a little much. Here are some pictures.

Glucose Test

2008-05-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Well I had my glucose test Monday, and passed thank God!! I was very worried about it. The last thing I want is to be diabetic while I'm Pregnant. So now that has passed it should be smooth sailing from here. Well that is if my back stops hurting.

Jeff's semester is over and of course he got all A's. He didn't have to take finals do to passing with flying colors. He will start a minimester next week, and has two summer classes.

Yogi is doing great. He loves the nice weather and he is starting to be able to play outside a lot more. He is usually pooped by the end of the day and ready to sleep.

Thats all for now.

Nursery

2008-04-28T14:40:00.000-07:00

First I wanted everyone to know that we changed a few things on our wish list at walmart.com. I deleted a few things and added a couple others. We reevaluated what was needed this weekend. Here are the pictures of our finished nursery that Jeff worked on all night last night. The first is Yogi testing the bed out making sure it is comfortable for his little sister.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2008-04-24T05:57:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was my niece Bella's birthday she turned 9. Mandy, Bella, and I went to Seven for dinner and had a great time. I cannot believe my little Bella is already 9 years old. I remember the day she was born like it was yesterday. They grow up so fast.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BELLA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

26 weeks

2008-04-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

First I want to start off by saying how successful the Parkinson's race was for my grandfather. The weather held off and we raised a lot of money for Parkinson's research. It was a good time had by all. The friends and family that came out to support grandpa was just heartfelt and the whole Bohlander family really appreciated it. Parkinson's is a genetic disease that has no cure, so research is very important so we can get closer to the answer. I found out through my sister and my aunt that after you have a baby you can donate your cord blood for Parkinson's research, and I will be following Tori's lead and donating mine. It is very important to my family to find a cure for this disease.

Next, I had a doctor's appt yesterday and everything is looking great. My hemoglobin was a little low, so I will have to start eating a little more iron. Beets is one of my favorite foods and they have a lot of iron in them. I know a lot of people don't like them, but that's because they didn't have Nanny Boh for a grandma. Plus I believe that my dad used to can them back in the day. From my original weight I have only gained a 1/2 pound, which is fine with me. The baby is growing like a weed, and I think she is going to come out a giant. It wouldn't surprise me considering the height of her father.

Other than that nothing much. Jeff is still doing great in school and he may not even need to take finals.

babies, babies, and more babies

2008-04-18T14:33:00.000-07:00

LEAH DIANE MURPHY has arrived into the world today. My best friend ever had her little girl today around 3:15pm. She is 7 pounds 1 ounce and has a lot of hair. I just thought I would share.