It's An Anderson Thing

December Favorites

2012-01-05T09:02:00.000-08:00

I'm scratching my head wondering why I have no posts for the month of December. Then I think about how incredibly busy it was and I stop scratching. I'd like to post my top 10 happy moments of that memorable month.

Lilly turning 5 years old on the 18th. Nana and Papa Anderson and cousins, Addy and Harper came up to celebrate from the Tri-Cities. Grandma and Grandpa Lichfield and Rob and Kathy and Grant and Abby came as well and I can't forget Uncle Justin. We went to a sketchy looking bowling ally and enjoyed every second together. Then we went to Red Robin for lunch and homemade chocolate cupcakes. It was so delightful.

Participating in my first musical play since high school. I use to sing a lot in church when I was growing up, but haven't since I've been married. The Holy Ghost prompted me to raise my hand and volunteer to take on the role as Gabriella in an LDS play about the 10 virgins. It was inspiring and empowering to sing a solo. I loved getting to know some sweet sisters of all ages in our Relief Society.

Going caroling with the sweetest 8-11 year old girls. They truly make my life so much happier. I dressed up some fun Christmas plates with mouth watering treats and then we delivered them to many LDS families in our apartment complex. The girls sang so joyfully. There was no way you couldn't feel the true meaning of Christmas with those cheerful tunes in your ears.

Going out on a fun date with our friends, The Davis', to Creekside Grill and hitting target to do some barbie doll Christmas shopping after. I guess that's all we know since we both have only girls.

Spending countless hours and money on my favorite gift I've ever given... a homemade scrapbooked calender for my mother-in-law, Luanne. I am quite a perfectionist, so every page had to be just right. I created 14 calendar pages in all for not only Luanne, but 2 for my mother as well. All the hard work was totally worth it when I saw the look on Luanne's face---priceless!!!

Decorating our Christmas tree with our little family. The anticipation to put the red star on the top was overwhelming. It looked dazzling and Shane had to restrain me from leaving the twinkle lights on 24 hours a day. That little tree brought me so much joy.

Christmas music in my car. The girls favorite song was Jingle Bell Rock by Rascal Flats. I can't tell you how many times we "rocked out" to that one. My favorites this year were a song by my songwriting cousin, Cheri Call, and Silent Night. Avery still requests Silent Night before she goes to bed at night.

I loved spontaneously popping the girls in the car one night and driving up and down the streets of various neighborhoods so the girls could look at the lights. Avery cried and cried when we pulled back into our parking spot back home.

Building a community snowman with our neighbors. It also provoked a bit of a snowball fight as well. We love our neighborhood family!!!

Christmas morning was classic as usual. Shane and I woke up first around 6:45 AM. Both our girls were still asleep. The ironic part was that we didn't even have stockings for each other so we went through Shane's brother, Justin's, instead and tried to guess what each wrapped gift was. Shane went and woke up our girls. This year they especially loved their Mobigo's that were given to them by Nana and Papa Anderson.

New Year's Eve was a perfect way to end the year! My dear friend, Genevieve and I made a whole spread of Cafe' Rio food. It was to die for I must say. Our girls played and the adults played a game we received from my sister, Jennie, called Qwirkle. If you haven't played it---you're missing out!

What a lovely time of year. It was one of my favorite Christmas's ever! I know next year will be just as memorable. Goodbye 2011, you've been a big year! On to more adventures.

Merry "Late" Christmas 2011

2012-01-05T08:19:00.000-08:00

Anderson’s Adventures in 2011

The year 2011 has been anticipated at the Anderson Household for over 4 years. It has finally come! The highlight of this year was Shane’s graduation from The WSU college of Pharmacy. Hello Dr. Anderson! On May 6th, we traveled to Spokane to commemorate and celebrate his accomplishments. We loved having Luanne and Kerry, Robert and Jill, Papa George and Grandma Pam, Grandma Nadine and Justin there to celebrate Shane’s big day. Way to go Shane! We did it!

After Shane’s graduation, life changed quickly. We had to start making grown-up, real-life decisions. Shane was offered a job at The Savon Pharmacy inside Albertson’s grocery store. He accepted the position, but I never felt at ease about our choice. I feared that Shane would become bored and unchallenged working as a retail Pharmacist. Our prayers were truly answered when another local employment opportunity became available at Comprehensive Mental Health.. We were enticed with wonderful hours, his own office and patients and prescribing power, under a physician. He is basically running the Methadone clinic, where patients are trying to stop addictive drug abuse. He also travels to the local jail a few times a week, meets with patients and prescribes their medications. He LOVES his job; therefore; I LOVE his job. I am so proud of the work that he is doing. He is truly making a difference by helping people improve their lives.

In Shane’s free time, if he isn’t playing golf, he’s dreaming about golf or practicing his swing. I found him outside with the kids a few times, golf club in hand, practicing his game while showing the kids how to hit the ball as well. He is very cute with the girls. They adore their Daddy. I love to see Shane crank up the music in the living room and bust out some dance moves with the girls.

Like Shane, I truly LOVE my full-time job as well. I feel so fortunate to get to stay home with our two little girls. They keep me hopping. I love their sweet hugs and kisses and their genuine little hearts. They are my greatest gift. I’ve also loved working with another big group of girls in our church. I get to plan and participate in activities for the 8-11 year old girls. I work with some of the greatest ladies and we have such a fun time together. The girls are delightful and get along beautifully. My favorite activity this year was caroling to some families in our ward. All the girls sang with such zeal and gusto. I was touched by the spirit that they brought with them as we shared songs about The Savior. Another favorite memory this past year was bonding with not only my immediate family, but with my extended families at both of my grandmother’s funeral services. I will miss my Grandma Bessie Call and Ruth Lichfield. I can’t wait to tell my girls about their great-grandmothers’ examples of faith, love, and service.

I cannot believe Lilly is turning 5 this month. She started preschool this fall and asks me daily if it’s a preschool day. She is reading and definitely has a thirst for knowledge. We say that her spirit is a lot older than her body. She loves getting her nails painted, craft projects and discussing who wants to marry her. She will be very ready to start kindergarten next fall.
Our sweet Avery Shae, turned 2 in September. She just plain warms our hearts. She is snuggly, nurturing and silly. She loves Dora, any kind of treats, and equality. She speaks remarkably well and always asks me when we are going to pick “Lil” up from school. Naturally, we go everywhere together—and naturally I couldn’t imagine it any other way.
Life is good. We are incredibly thankful for our family and our Heavenly Father. We are so grateful for our sweet friends and family that brighten up our lives.

With Love,
Shane, Erica, Lilly & Avery Anderson

Fairy Peacock and a Plump Ladybug

2011-11-04T09:57:00.000-07:00

Lilly all jazzed up for her preschool Halloween Party. She actually wore her costume twice to preschool because I got confused as to when she was supposed to wear it. I picked Lil up from school on Friday before Halloween worried that she was probably embarrassed that she wore her costume and no one else did. I expressed my sympathy and she said, "I was totally supposed to dress up! What are you talking about?"
I love her confidence.

I love the view from the back.

Lil's bestie from preschool, Juliet. Such cuties.

My two sweeties after a very cold Halloween Trick or Treating. We went to an upscale neighborhood in Terrace Heights. I've never seen so many kids trick or treating in my life! It was crazy and awesome. Leticia and Mike Penning came along with their children, Victoria and Chase. It didn't last long with the freezing temperature but, we had a blast.

The girls chose suckers as their treats at the end of the night.

I love this blurry picture of Avery trick or treating. People would just stop and gawk at her. She looked adorable if I must say so myself. It was a very fun Halloween! We did miss my sister, Wendy, and her family along with my brother, Rob, and his family though. We love spending holidays with you guys.

Avery's puffy ladybug bum. Love, love it!

Preschool and the Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-27T08:57:00.000-07:00

I went with Lilly to her first preschool fieldtrip to a pumpkin patch in Union Gap. She is loving her preschool class just as much as I am I think. I've been impressed with her teachers and it was just a delight to go spend time with them all.

Walking into the pumpkin patch...pleased and excited as ever!

This was when all the kids first go to the pumpkin patch and were looking over the balcony to check out what they were going to be doing.

The hay maze was one of the first activities they did. It was cute to watch all the little kids navigate through it together.

I think Lil's favorite part was the hay slide. The kids all waited patiently for their turns.

This picture is blurry, but I still love it. Lilly absolutely flew down the hay slide. Pure joy.

The chosen pumpkin. It didn't take her long to fall in love with this orange guy.

At the end of the field trip, the girls got to choose a pumpkin to take home. Look how cute they are!

On Saturday morning, Shane suprised everyone by rolling up his sleeves and carving pumpkins with the girls. I only have a picture of Avery's ghost pumpkin because Lilly's carved pumpkin wilted in the sun and we had to toss it. They enjoyed just spending time with each other. Shane did an awesome job carving. I know he loved every second.

This is what our front porch looks like with our Mr. Potato Head pumpkins. I love Fall.

A Visit with my Jennie

2011-10-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

My sister, Jennie, made a trip out to Washington at the beginning of October. It was such a long awaited reunion. She is so important to me. I miss her like crazy since she's moved to Lexington, KY with her family for her husband, Jake's residency.
The Christensen clan, the Lichfield's and The Anderson's got together at my mom's home to watch conference together, eat the yummiest food, catch up and take a walk and play.

I had to snap this photo of Aunt Jennie with Lauren and Lilly. Jennie is so sweet and genuine and patient with kids. I want to be more like that.

Three cute girls that I adore! We were on our way to the playground in between conference sessions.

Jennie, Rob and I at the park with the kiddos. They are two of my all-time favorite people.

Jennie and my Mom made a trip up to Yakima to visit us. We took a walk with the kids, had a lovely lunch and Jennie read the girls lots of stories and snuggled them too.

Jennie is quite the artist. I already have one painting of hers in Avery's bedroom and then I requested she make another one for Lilly's room. Isn't it so cute? It goes perfectly with an owl rug in Lil's room.

Here's a silly picture of Lilly while Jennie was at our house. She entertained us for a while in those goggles.

I love you Jenn. Thanks for the memories. Hopefully I can come out to visit you soon, until then... there's always the phone, right??

Look Whoo Whoo is Two!!!

2011-09-30T15:39:00.001-07:00

My baby, Avery, is two already! I can't believe how much I enjoy her. She is the sweetest thing. I love her bleach blonde hair, big brown eyes, kissable lips, silly laugh, snuggly hugs, and beautiful smile. Can you just stay two for a while???
These are the email invites that I sent out.

I made a little tree to go along with the owl theme and I made the little owls too. It was so fun. I love owls...can you tell? My sweet Mom came from the Tri-Cities to help me out with the party preparations. We had such a fun time just spending time together, especially working on the cake.

The cutest little girl ready to bite into that bird.

Our neighbors even got her an owl gift bag with the cutest sweater dress inside. I think that present was more for me. If they had it in my size, I'd totally wear it.

Our family on Avery's big day. We think we'll keep her....FOREVER! Her favorite gift had to be the baby doll set my Mom and Dad got her. She already knew the baby's name would be baby Lila after our neighbors baby girl.

Oh to meet Betty Crocker

2011-09-29T08:15:00.000-07:00

For breakfast this morning I made boxed banana nut muffins, cheesy eggs and some overcooked bacon. While we were sitting down enjoying the meal together Lilly says, "So, who put the walnuts in the muffins?" I said Betty Crocker. She then proceeded to ask if I had put the bananas in and other ingredients. I told her all I had to do was add milk, eggs and oil. She then says, "Mom, you and Betty Crocker work as a team, huh?" I told her yes. Then she says, "I hope I get to meet Betty Crocker someday." I agreed with her. I guess I probably should have told her Betty made the brownies last night for dessert too. I love the things kids say and I love that I can pop open a box and have muffins prepared in 5 minutes. I'm definitely not saying boxed food is better than homemade, but sometimes I think it is sent from heaven. :)

Brighter Than the Sun...

2011-08-05T13:35:00.001-07:00

These girls make my days full of sunshine.

I'm one lucky Mommy.

For My Grandmas...

2011-07-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

It's been way too long since I've updated my blog, but a lot has been going on. Now I'd like to focus on my sweet Grandmothers who both passed away the past month.

(My beautiful Grandma Ruth Elma Lichfield.)
Grandma Ruth Elma Lichfield was the Grandmother that I longed to visit once a year on our annual summer trip to Utah and Wyoming. My memories of her are so vivid. She was the kindest woman. She'd do anything for us. We'd get to her house late in the evening typically on a hot summer day and charge out of our big yellow van barefooted up her concrete steps, lined with fragrant flowers. I still remember the smell of the house and the screech of the screen door when we'd walk in. She and Grandpa Lichfield would greet us with powerful bear hugs.

(Grandma and Grandpa Lichfield very young and very in love.)
I loved to go down to the basement and play with her dress ups that included all the necessary accessories like purses, hats and fabulous jewelry. I liked to sleep in the upstairs bedroom with the twin beds and I loved her pink bathroom. She was an amazing cook and I'd love to hop up to her spinning bar stools and twirl away while I "placed my order." Grandma and Grandpa would usually treat our family to a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken, which was so magical since we rarely ever went out to eat. She and Grandpa maintained an amazing garden and they also had a teeter totter in their backyard.

(Grandma and Grandpa Lichfield with their very young family. My father (top row far left)was the fourth of six children.)
I also have many memories of their "bed shed" as we called it in Bedford, WY. It was actually named MockingBird Hill, after Grandma's favorite song. It is a huge shed-like building, lined with beds and a boys and ladies bathrooms and a large kitchen. It was a perfect place for them to spend theirs summers and entertain family. We'd get together with our cousins and canoe in the canal, go for rides on their homemade swing zip line, ride the lawn mower, pick hundreds of strawberries, eat numerous homemade meals, and shoot BB guns. I can't think of a more fun place to be as a kid. I feel so blessed to have such wonderful people in my life. I'm so grateful that Grandma can be with my Grandpa again. I can't imagine what the reunion in heaven must have been like. I'm sure my brother, Travis, is with them as well.

(This is my favorite picture of my Grandma, probably because I can relate with her and having small children. She is holding my Aunt Dianne. Isn't she breathtaking?)

I found out you died Grandma, on a Monday and I cried on and off throughout the day. Even though I knew you had been sick for years and in a nursing home, your death hit me. I learned so much about not only you at your funeral, but also about my own father. Now I know why he crows like a rooster occasionally and why he loves pickles so much. :)
We were such a lady. You were so crafty, creative and thrifty. I desire those qualities and I'm going to work harder to be more like you. You would have loved all the flowers that adored your casket. There were lilies, roses and many more. I love that you had a passion for flowers. I miss you already and I'll think of you often and smile!

(My sisters and I (except miss Jennie--we missed you dearly) sang Grandma's favorite song Mocking Bird Hill at her graveside service in Bedford, WY. My brother-in-law, Tory, accompanied us with the guitar. I've never seen a more beautiful cemetery in my life. My brother, Rob, gave the most beautiful prayer after the song dedicating her grave.)

I'll have to dedicate another post entirely to my other amazing Grandma Bessie Call. I'm all emotionally strung out right now, but it will follow.

Sweet Easter

2011-05-02T14:53:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Easter among our family in the Tri-Cities. On Saturday morning, Lilly and Avery went to an egg hunt at Horn Rapids. It was over in 5 minutes or less, but it was very cute.

After the egg hunt, we went back to the Anderson's and colored eggs. Addisyn, Harper and Lilly did a wonderful job, while I felt like Avery was just a bit too young for the activity. She was quite a little terror and insisted that she be on top of the table with the colored dye. Little stinker...

That evening, Luanne tended our kids while we went to the production of The Savior of The World, a musical put on by the Richland Stake in the LDS church. It was phenomenal. Thanks Mom and Dad Lichfield for getting us the tickets. It was fun to be there with my brother, Rob, and his wife Kathrynn. It really got me in the mood for the true meaning of Easter.

On Easter morning the girls woke up and searched for their baskets hidden by the Easter Bunny. Lilly's was not hidden well, but she loved her goodies. Avery was hilarious as usual and really had no clue what was happening. You gotta check out her bed head!!! She makes me laugh.

We went to the Shoreline Ward in Richland with the Anderson's and I felt the Spirit very strongly. The girls looked adorable in their pink, puffy dresses. Avery didn't like wearing hers as much. She kept saying..."Out, out." Thanks to Mom and Dad Anderson for those fancy dresses.

I had a beautiful moment with Lilly yesterday while I was helping get her ready for bed. We were reading the illustrated scriptures and she randomly stopped me while I was reading and told me the whole story of Easter. She said,
"Mom, did you know Jesus died for us in the garden of Gethsemane?" (With perfect punctuation might I add.)I said,
"Yes, I did."
Then she told me how he bled for us and then was taken to a cross and died. She told about Mary Magdalene and the apostles rolling a rock in front of His tomb, along with his white clothing He was buried in. It was absolutely amazing. Lilly amazes me everyday. It was such a tender sweet moment. She told me she learned that all from primary at church. Let's just say that we'll be continuing going to primary. :)

A R I Z O N A

2011-04-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Last Monday Shane and I dropped our kids off at my mom's for 5 days and headed off to Gilbert, AZ to visit my sister, AMY, and her family. We enjoyed every minute together. When we first got there we had lunch at the ever so famous and talked about, Cafe Rio. I had the BBQ pulled pork salad and it was delicious. Let's just say we spent a lot of time eating during this trip... We love to eat!!!!

My beautiful sister, Amy, getting her feet wet in the hot tub. We both were a little slow to get in the pool because it was pretty cold. We both say it just takes us some time to warm up.

Amy and I getting some sun. Boy did I ever get some...The Panama Jacks SPF 8 didn't do a thing for me. Shane and I both fried. We'd do that a bit different next time.

Me and my honey. He was NOT slow to get in. They had a basketball hoop by the pool and Shane and I enjoyed shooting some hoops while we hung in the pool. As a side note, I think I could handle having a pool at my own house some day. :)

After a couple hours in the sun Shane and Jeremy headed off to have some manly bonding on the golf course.

They are both so handsome. I guess the golf course turned out to be a doosy, but they still had fun.

Meanwhile, Amy and I did this. We ate Shane's mouth watering good BBQ wings. Amy made a yummy salad and we had french fries. After dinner we went shopping to the San Tan outdoor mall. My best finds came from Macy's. I found 2 adorable dressy black skirts that Amy and I both tried on and fell in love with. Our men met us at the mall and we went and got 4 giant cupcakes that we all cut in half and shared. My lemon raspberry cupcake was the best I must say. After the dessert we found a redbox and I picked out a horrible movie for us all to watch. I have a bad history lately of picking out really poor movies. I can't ever remember what it was called but it starred Matt Damon. Sorry guys.
The next day Shane, Amy and I put together a daybed for my niece, Baylie.

Shane decided he needed a headlight to get the job done properly.

He's cute even burnt and with a light on his head. He was very determined to get that bed done right. My sister said she heard someone once say, "If your marriage can last while you put IKEA furniture together, it can last through anything." It did have it's frustrating moments.
Wednesday evening we went to special friends of the Anderson's family, the Brown's house, for dinner. Ben was one of the missionaries that helped convert their family into the church. He holds a dear place in all our our hearts. We love their family. Kelly made an amazing dinner and it was fun to enjoy a little time with their kids, Damon, and Ellie.

The following night we went to a Thai restaurant with them as well as my sister and her husband, Jeremy. It was my very first time trying Thai food and I was very impressed. It was a lovely meal with lots of people we love.
After, we went to a cake shop and had cake pops. They were a bit pricey, but they were delicious. I snapped a couple pictures of the shop because it was so cute.

Some of my favorite memories are shopping with Amy. The last day we were there, she chose all the clothes I tried on and she did an awesome job. Sometimes it's nice to get someone else's opinion.

My niece, Baylie, is a very accomplished singer and song writer. As you can tell, she plays the guitar as well. She played me a couple of her songs the night before I left and they were beautiful. Thanks Bay.
It was an awesome getaway. I'll be missing The Bowman's for a long time. It was nice to get home to our own little ones though. My Mom did an amazing job caring for them. Sorry for all the late nights with Avery. I love you Mom!!!

Swim Lessons

2011-04-01T15:32:00.001-07:00

Lexie, Juliet and Lilly ready for swim lessons...although I think you can tell who is the most excited.

The class listening so intently to their swim instructor.

Cuteness.

More cuteness.

Pure joy---just kickin' away.

By the end of the week, Lil was sportin' a pretty good lookin' back float.

This is how Avery kept herself entertained. Little baby, Xander, was the target of some poking and binkie theft. She is definitely in the phase where she is fascinated with babies.

Ok, she is seriously a little dollie. She just sat on that bench and enjoyed her dum dum sucker.

Swim lessons at the YMCA were awesome! I totally recommend them.

As of Lately...

2011-03-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

Well, the girls and I went and bought Tangled last night. When we got home we quickly put on the movie and enjoyed every single moment. It was my first time seeing the movie and I thought it was pure delight! I remember as a child being fascinated with the story of Rapunzel... I even had dreams about it last night. Nice work Disney!

Shane finally has purchased a second car to replace our old paint-peeling freebie, that we are forever grateful for. He just needed a bit more reliable car since his job may demand that he travel. He found a 2005 Toyota Corolla in really great shape in Lewiston, Idaho. He is tickled with his find and I'm tickled that the whole process is over. Shane loves the hunt for a car. I think he'll be pleased with this basic commuter car. He is in the Tri-Cities now so the girls and I have had some time to hang out by ourselves. I have to say I don't sleep well without Shane beside me. We're ready to have him back.

Shane has accepted a job with Albertson's Savon Pharmacy here in Yakima, WA. It just makes sense for now, but he's still on the prowl for something bigger and better. Actually we're just looking for something with some better hours. He'll work four tens and will most likely not have the weekends off. I can't complain too much, but it will be an adjustment getting used to him not getting home until 8:30PM. We'll make do. We are just grateful for a PAYING job.
We are looking to move into a rental home for a couple years so we can save up to buy a house of our own. I think it's the best option for now since we don't know how long we'll be in Yakima. I anticipate having a back yard and some storage space. I'll keep you all posted on where we end up renting. I am praying we get to stay in the Terres Heights area of Yakima.
Shane graduates from Pharmacy School the first weekend in May. I can't believe that day is drawing so near. I told Shane I NEED to get a new outfit for the occasion. He laughed...too bad I was serious. :) I'm going to be working on getting some graduation announcements out soon.

(I like all these pieces, but I don't necessarily think they should go together. I'm just having fun!)
Lilly has been taking free swimming lessons from our local YMCA this whole week. She absolutely loves it. She is the most animated little swimmer I've ever seen complete with a big smile plastered all over her face the entire time! I'm hoping to get her into some gymnastics and possibly some dance classes this spring/summer. She is ready to be involved. She is so super social it makes me laugh. I don't think there's a shy bone in her body.
Avery bug is the sweetest baby there is. She is old enough to go into the nursery at church and the workers said she never cried once the first time there. She is so pleasant---most of the time of course. Night time is still a different story, but I wouldn't trade her for the world. She lights up our lives.
Life is good. We're making progress.

CELEBRATE!!!

2011-03-07T07:29:00.000-08:00

Shane and I are going here...

Arizona!!!
To visit these people...

(My sister, Amy, and her family.)
On April 18th to April 22nd!!!
I have a feeling we will be spending a lot of time here...

(Amy's backyard.)
We won't be bringing these little ones...

We are so excited to celebrate Shane graduating from Pharmacy school in only 2 short months. I can already feel the sunshine...

For Amy

2011-02-24T16:53:00.000-08:00

I was reading this book to Lilly and I couldn't help but think of you when I came to this part....
"Today," laughs the Bird, "eat whatever you want. Today no one tells you you cawnt or you shawnt. And, today, you don't have to be tidy or neat. If you wish, you may eat with both hands and both feet. So get in there and munch. Have a big munch-er-oo! Today is your birthday! Today you are you!
(Taken from Happy Birthday To You! by Dr. Seuss)

It made me think of you because we share a passion for FOOD. Oh, you are by far the funnest person I have ever and will ever cook with. I have so many memories of us making and devouring yummy mouth-watering food together.

If I were with you today on your special day I would make you this...

(It's missing a dollop of ice cream.)
Country Apple Dumplings

Ingredients

2 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored
2 (10 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
1 cup butter
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle Mountain Dew ™

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cut each apple into 8 wedges and set aside. Separate the crescent roll dough into triangles. Roll each apple wedge in crescent roll dough starting at the smallest end. Pinch to seal and place in the baking dish.
Melt butter in a small saucepan and stir in the sugar and cinnamon. Pour over the apple dumplings. Pour Mountain Dew™ over the dumplings.
Bake for 35 to 45 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden brown.

We would maybe use a fork or a spoon to eat, but maybe not. I wouldn't put it past us to use both hands AND both feet!!!

After we enjoyed this delicious treat, I think we'd curl up on the couch and watch this...

Every time I see this movie I think of you. She just does what is right and she has a huge heart. Just like my sister, Amy.

After the movie we'd sit and chat about memories like the time I cried so hard at your house I stained the carpet with my mascara...(Sorry about that.) Or maybe about the mystery of the stinkiness coming from my room that one time. I still laugh when I think one tiny brussel sprout could make such a stink. We could talk about our trip to Disney World or Myrtle Beach, but you know what my all-time favorite memories are? The little moments. I remember us driving in the car one time with the fire flies flickering magically in the white picked fenced fields and we weren't saying anything at all. Just pure silence and comfort between us. I remember us laughing so hard too. Remember making up silly songs while we cooked or gave the girls a bath? Remember when I came home from a date and I was kissed for the first time? We laughed and laughed.... I've shared some of my sweetest moments with you Amy. I wouldn't have it any other way.

After we talked about our memories I'd give you a very fun wrapped present.

Lastly, you'd get a signature Erica massage. (And I wouldn't even ask for one back.)

I hope one day very soon---we can celebrate our birthday's together. Until that time...this will have to be second best.

I love you so much my sweet big sister, Amy. You truly mean the world to me.

(I was looking through some pictures and found these of the girls and this one of us at Disney World. Those were my glory days of braces for the 2nd time. :)

A beautiful weekend

2011-01-31T10:07:00.001-08:00

On Thursday morning I packed up some things and my kiddos and headed to the Tri-Cities. I love that we live just an hour from family. I just needed a little change of scenery. We got to my mom's and enjoyed a lovely lunch together and after the kids naps we headed to my nephew, Kaleb's first wrestling match. Well I've never been to a wrestling match so it was my first as well. It was exciting to say the least,but it was harder to watch when it was Kaleb's turn. He did remarkably well, but it's hard to watch someone you love wrestle I think. I wanted to get out there and wrestle the tall, skinny boy he was competing with myself. I enjoyed it tremendously.
That evening my niece, Lauren, came over and played with my Lilly for like 3 hours straight. That was a little treat for me and Lil. It was sweet to see them play so well together even though they are 4 years apart. My sister, Wendy, and the rest of her family went to a live comedy show performance by Brian Regan. She shared some hilarious material that he performed. It sounded like they had a wonderful time.
On Friday my sweet Dad had the day off from work and he agreed to tend my kids while I attended a very memorable funeral with my mother. One of my friends from Yakima was struggling because her mother-in-law tragically died in a car accident and the timing worked out perfectly that I could attend the funeral and support her. We are not best friends, but I felt the Spirit prompt me that I should go and I'm so glad I listened. As she came into the chapel just following the casket, her eyes instantly connected with mine and we both welled up with tears. I'm so grateful for the knowledge that we will be able to reunite with our deceased loved ones again.
After the funeral, my Dad and I went to Lowe's hardware store to look for some building materials. We are building some storage shelves together for both my girls' rooms. I'm so, so excited to spend some time with my Dad and also to have some beautiful furniture that will be handmade.

This is what it's going to look like, only cuter because I'm putting bead board on the back and sides. I'm so excited.
My Dad and the kids and I headed off to my nephew, Kade's basketball game in Kennewick after Lowe's. Kade did awesome! It's just so fun to be there and be apart of their lives. I love my family.
Later that evening Wendy and Lauren came over and we got to share some yummy Italian food and laugh and play. I already feel like I could go back for another escape.
Shane is beginning his last 6 week rotation one week from today and then we'll be DONE WITH PHARMACY SCHOOL!!!! It's gone by so fast. I can't believe he graduates in May! He is still on the prowl for a job. I keep praying we'll find just the right one, but it's looking like the market is pretty saturated with Pharmacists around these parts. We may be moving somewhere far away....or not! Bottom line---nobody knows at this point. We just know we'll go together. :)

Christmas

2011-01-07T08:47:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve in front of the Anderson's enormous Christmas Tree. The kids are in their new Christmas jammies...a tradition I've insisted that our little family begin.

Christmas morning--Santa's little helper. She is so cute.

My girls all smiles and ready for Santa. Lilly woke up at 5:30AM on Christmas morning and was NOT going back to bed. How could I make her?

Lilly's favorite gift by far--HER LADYBUG PILLOW PET.

The girls gift from Nana and Papa Anderson...a kitchen. They were so excited.

Beautiful memories with our beautiful families.

Lilly Turns 4!

2011-01-03T14:15:00.001-08:00

Over the little Christmas vacation, we had a big family birthday party for Lilly. We all met at Chuck E Cheese this year. We played all the games, ate pizza and giant cupcakes and then Lil opened all her fun presents. It was so much fun!

Classic Papa Kerry shot with Shane's cousin, Patrick and girlfriend, Marla. Thanks for coming you guys.

Lilly with my favorite gift she received. Shane's Aunt Mar got her a complete outfit from The Gap including these oh-so-stinkin'-cute rain boots. She wears them daily.

Beautiful Aunt Ariel and Avery bug. Ariel was brave enough to hold Avery while she was eating a very messy cupcake.

The whole Anderson bunch. I love these guys!

Lilly making her wish and thinking about eating her delicious cupcake.

Aren't those giant cupcakes so pretty? Papa Kerry pretty much decorated all of them. He is so creative. I can always count on his help.

The gang was all there! I love family!!! We have thee most supportive family ever.

Lilly you are so loved! We adore you my little pinkalicious sweetie!

Shutterfly Makes My Heart Flutter

2010-12-06T18:16:00.000-08:00

Have you guys seen the beautiful photo cards that are available through www.shutterfly.com? I decided to include a couple of my favorite designs.

This one would obviously be perfect for a full family shot.

This design I think I'd be the most inclined to use because you can just choose multiple pictures that are nice of each person in your family instead of just having to have everyone look great in one group shot together. That's always a big challenge for our family.

I chose this one because this little girl is so stinkin' cute and she reminds me of my Lilly when she smiles.

I love these two little girls.
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards
I just love shutterfly. Last year I ordered a photo calendar with them and it's truly a treasure for me to look at each day. Photos of special people just make me happy. Check out the calendars here
http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars/wall-calendars

Lipgloss

2010-12-06T12:27:00.000-08:00

My oldest daughter, Lilly, loves me to share my lip gloss with her. A couple days ago it was very quiet upstairs where she was. I thought I should go check on her, but I was basking in the time I had to myself. I went up to her room later and found my lip gloss on her bed half empty.
I said, "Lilly, what were you doing with my lip gloss?"
She simply said, "Oh, just painting my toes."
Gross!!!!! That little stinker. Bye, bye favorite lip gloss.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-03T09:15:00.000-08:00

We had such a memorable Thanksgiving this year. We had plenty of snowfall the days leading up to Thanksgiving so we ended up traveling to the Tri-Cities on Turkey day. We stayed at the Lichfield's home and enjoyed a delicious meal with the Christensen's, Rob Lichfield family and our parents.

I brought sugary pretzel jello,(as we all called it) a custard pie and veggies and dip. I have to say they were all pretty delectable. My absolute favorite part of the whole meal was my mother's melt-in-your-mouth rolls. I haven't mastered making them just like her yet. Sometime soon. My mom was so sweet and let the kids make their own bread animals.

After dinner we journeyed to the newly remodeled Hanford gym. It's nice to share in the perks of Tory's vice-principal job. :) We played with all their equipment...not to forget the handicap 3 wheelers. Those were a hit!!!

We played bump, whiffer ball and dodge ball. It was such a blast!!!

Lilly and Abby in a crawling race.

Avery didn't know what to think about the scooters.

I love this picture of the Dodgeballers. Love you guys.

The Magic of Ordinary Days

2010-11-22T08:07:00.000-08:00

I have to share about my day on Saturday because I don't want to forget the sweet feelings I had. It was a very normal Saturday. We all were hanging out around the house. Shane went to go put the snow tires on his car. After he got home he went up to the computer to look for possible jobs to apply for. ( Yes, we are going to be applying for jobs, real jobs where you get paid.)
It was about nap time for both girls, but I was feeling particularly cabin-fever-ish so I insisted that we all go to the mall as a family and we could give each other gift suggestions for Christmas. First we went to Costco and the girls did well, then we ventured to Macey's. I have to say there was magic in the store. Christmas music flowed from the speakers and everyone was busily going about their day thinking of others. It was beautiful. Even if the kids did get a bit cranky, it was beautiful. I just love being together. Whenever all of us are out in public together as a family...Lilly announces to everyone, "Look at our happy family." It's so cute.
After the window shopping, we went out to eat at Red Robin. Yes, this was a big treat for us because we rarely EVER go out to eat. The kids got a bit more cranky. Avery leaked through her diaper in the restaurant and I ended up having to change her on the front seat of our car because both of my kids have had a phobia of the height of changing tables in restaurants and public places. I didn't have anywhere to dispose of the diaper that was convient, so it went in the car with us. What a joy ride home!!! Lilly and Avery were fighting over the pink balloon in the back, the car smells like a trash can and I'm just laughing the whole time. It was a classic raising little kids moment.
When we arrived home I drew a bath for my girls. Everything was looking up until Avery had another accident in the tub!!! This was the first time she'd ever done that. I grabbed the little ladies out of the bath and we got them in jammies.
Since Lilly didn't have a nap and woke up around 5:30AM, she was done for the day. I ended up putting her in bed at 6:10. Avery went to bed shortly after.
After all of this was said and done, Shane looked at me and said, "We've had a bit too much family time today." I laughed and said, "No, way, I'd do it all over again tomorrow."
I was looking forward to a long evening alone with my honey, but he fell fast asleep at 7PM. I'm still laughing.

Lilly's first Primary Program

2010-11-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

Sunday was Lil's first primary program that she was participating in. I couldn't be more proud of our beautiful growing little girl. She said her line so perfectly...
"Be kind to my Mom, Dad and sister."
We could all understand her and she didn't get nervous at all. I got her a new outfit for the event and boy did she look darling. Her cousin, Addisyn, and Nana and Papa came from the Tri-Cities to be with us on her special day.

I adore this photo of Shane's Mom (aka Nana) and Lilly. They are both so beautiful in that rich purple color.

Cousin, Addisyn and Lil. They had such a fun day together.

Before church Luanne managed to snap a quick picture of our entire family. This was the first photo we've had taken all together since Avery's birth pretty much. Shane is not crazy about family pictures... I just wish the silly fence wasn't in the background. Hey, it's better than nothing though.

Avery has been taking her first steps. It's so cute and it's about time. She is the cutest kid. She gets so excited. These pictures are horrible, but it gives you the idea.

Shane boasts that she'll be walking at Thanksgiving. I think we've got a little bit more practice to go, but who knows. :)

Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T10:52:00.001-07:00

My Name is Khan

2010-10-09T13:00:00.000-07:00

Shane came home with the movie, My Name is Khan last night. My first impression was that it was going to be a total doosie, but I was mostly wrong. The movie really moved both of us. We both cried and laughed. There is definitely a political agenda that I don't agree with, but for the most part we were very uplifted. Be aware that it is quite long---quite possibly 3 hours. Rent it! Tell me what you think.

Avery Bug's Ladybug Party

2010-10-08T13:07:00.000-07:00

We went to the Tri-Cities over my birthday and Avery's birthday weekend to celebrate. I chose to do a ladybug theme for Ave. My sweet sister-in-law, Kathy, helped me make the cake along with my father-in-law, Kerry. You guys are both so creative. I thought it turned out ADORABLE!!!

I also made ladybug cupcakes.

My mother-in-law, Luanne, decorated and bought ladybug costumes for the little girls that came. It couldn't have turned out more perfectly.

Here's cousin Lauren and Lilly. Now they are darling little ladybugs.

Our Avery Bug! She is so stinkin' cute! She was so happy and spunky the entire party. I think she liked all the attention.

We enjoyed some yummy pizza and then Avery 'spotted' her ladybug cake.

She very timidly tried the frosting at first...

She quickly discovered she liked it.

She liked it a lot.

Shane and I actually had to leave the party and give her a bath. My kids both went through a phase about this age where they love to put their food in their hair. Little Ave was covered.
After a very needed bath, we put the little guest of honor in jammies and took her out to open some gifts. It actually worked out perfectly because Avery didn't care if she opened the gifts and Lilly cared a lot!!! So big sister, Lilly, opened most of the gifts.

This cute-as-can-be sock monkey was from Grandma Great. We love it!

Me and my ladybugs. Oh how I love them.

Thanks to everyone who got to come spend the evening with us. I love small, intimate parties. Until next year...

Anniversary Getaway

2010-10-08T12:43:00.000-07:00

For our 6th wedding anniversary, my parents came up to be with the girls so Shane and I could get away for a couple nights. This was the first time we've been with out our kids. I worried about my little sweeties for about 15 minutes and then I just enjoyed every minute we had together. It was quite a treat. Thanks Mom and Dad Lichfield.
The first night we got to Seattle we arrived late so we just went to one of our favorite restaurants, Red Robin. Then off to our hotel.
The next day was filled with plans and activities. First we went to an awesome outlet mall, which we totally underestimated. We could have spend an entire day there, but Shane scheduled 18 holes of golf at a gorgeous course only miles from us. I drove the golf cart while Shane looked very handsome doing what he LOVES so much.

Later that evening we met a couple of our dear friends for dinner at Red Robin again...(I know, wouldn't you think we could try something new?) :) We got to know Lee and Leslie Rushton in Pullman a couple years ago and boy do we miss them!!! We laughed and talked for hours. It made me miss getting together some evenings in our old apartment complex and playing Settlers of Catan. We love you guys. Thanks for letting us meet your new little baby girl, Shiloh.

Ahhhhh, we can't wait to take a few more romantic getaways soon when we complete school. It was just a small preview of what's to come...

Happy Birthday my sweet Avery Shae

2010-09-22T11:37:00.000-07:00

I just can't believe my Avery is already one! It feels like just yesterday you were cuddly, safe and warm all balled up in my tummy. You were my easiest pregnancy and you have proven to be such a pleasant little thing. You truly bring me so much joy. I know my Heavenly Father loves me because he gave me YOU!

Here are some of the things you are up to:
You HATE milk! I can't get you to touch the stuff, but luckily you do like yogurt and you tolerate cheese. I'm still hoping that you embrace dairy products someday.
You are not in any hurry. You know how to crawl on all fours, but you way prefer to army crawl because you think it's faster.
You are cruising along the furniture and you pull up on everything, but we predict it's going to be a while before you are walking.
You love peekaboo and any kind of joking around.
I can still get you to take two naps on some days. I know it will be soon that you are only taking one nap a day.
You know how to get comfortable. From the time you could sit up, you have always found a way to get comfortable--in shopping carts especially. You don't like jeans and you find a way to take them off somehow.
Most of all you love to cuddle with your family and you LOVE your sister, Lilly.
People stop me everywhere I go to talk about you. You're so adorable and quite the charmer.

Thank you for coming to our family sweet Avery. We love you dearly.

Love,
Mommy, Daddy and Lil

Pinkalicious

2010-08-23T16:35:00.000-07:00

I've never been in love with a book! The time has come that I have fallen in love with my first book...PINKALICIOUS!!! It's a children's book and it's the most adorable thing ever. We read it at least twice a day. It's not only the words to the book that have me falling, it's the illustrations! Lilly was longingly staring at the book the other day and then she started jumping. I asked her what she was doing and she said, "Mom, I'm trying to jump into the book." I can't say that I blame her.

We loved Pinkalicious so much that we had to have Goldilicious and Purplicious. I guarantee they will not disappoint. I will say they are super-duper girlie, but I think the boys would enjoy it too.

We've been starting the day with Goldilicious and concluding with Pinkalicious. I've decided to theme Lilly's birthday party after them. Get your hands on them and ENJOY!

Wyoming Adventures

2010-08-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

The kids and I ventured to Star Valley, Wyoming to be together with The Call Family. My mother is one of 14 children. They grew up in a small farmhouse which they have now transformed into a museum. There were over 300 people at this gathering. I have 96 first cousins so, it was crazy to say the least. My mom and many of her other brothers and sisters worked so hard to make this an amazing event. They dedicated a brand new building which they call the barn. It will be used for many years to come--bringing families together.

A few nights after I got my kids to bed, we'd take a walk up the canyon. I can't think of many places in the world that could be any more beautiful. We are just missing my sweet sister, Jennie.

This is a photo of some of the grandkids from my family that were present, along with my 94 year old, Grandma, Bessie. Isn't she adorable? I love her!!!

This picture is just following the ribbon cutting ceremony. All the little kids let go of their balloons and we all cheered.

This is my dear Aunt Ruth, the youngest of the 14 kids in the family, and my Lilly. Sweet Aunt Ruth was so cute with Lilly. They made giant magical bubbles together.

Lilly pie--cheesing it up for the camera.

Kathy and the kids were able to make the long journey to the reunion as well. Here's little Grant.

After a busy day of bubbles, buggy rides, ribbon cutting and delicious spudnuts, we ended the evening with a program. Cherie Call is an accomplished singer and songwriter and she just happens to be my cousin. She is amazing if you haven't heard her music. You can buy her CD's at most any church bookstore.

Here's some more bubble fun. This is one of the only pictures I'm in since ironically my camera ran out of batteries.

Let's hear it for Grandma Call!

This is kinda a funny picture of my beautiful cousin, Cally, and her husband, Kory and kids. They let me come stay at their house for 4 nights. We had a great time catching up. Cally and I roomed together for a semester at BYU-Idaho. I love her!!!

Seriously, feeding time at the zoo! So many people, but such good food.

My little mamma working so hard in the brand new beautiful kitchen. You're amazing Mom!

They had a little blow up toy for all the kids. Lilly came and visited many times.

Tetherball was a hit as well.

Now this was the BIGGEST hit for the kids. Lilly would run off and I couldn't find her. 90 percent of the time---this is where she was. People later told me she refused to get off. She was absolutely covered in dirt when I finally had to come and pull her out so other kids could have a chance to enjoy a ride. She is so funny.

My lovely sister, Amy, and her daughter, Amalie. They flew all the way from Louisville, Kentucky to be with us.

My sister, Katie, and her two youngest daughters, Emma and Lia.

My uncle Gregg giving Amy and Jeremy a carriage ride.

A beautiful view of the canyon.

These next three pictures are different angles of the new barn that was just built.

We are very grateful that we belong to such an amazing family. We come from a long line of LOVE! It was quite an adventure.

(Thanks to my Uncle Darrell for taking most of these photographs.)

Christensen/Anderson Pool Party

2010-07-09T11:23:00.001-07:00

For the fourth of July weekend, the kids and I took off to the Tri-Cities. I have to say thank you to my mother-in-law, Luanne, who took my children for 4 hours so I could have some me time shopping. It felt so good. On Saturday evening my sister, Wendy, invited us to come swimming at her club pool. We had so much fun. Thanks Tory for helping out with Lilly. She had a blast. And Avery was a little dream baby as usual. She SPLISHED SPLASHED and KICKED in that water. It was her first swimming experience.

She is just the sweetest.

Avery loves her Aunt Wendy.

So happy!

Uncle Tory held Lilly in the water for at least an hour. What a good guy.

A rowdy and rambunctious group. Let's play in your pool again soon....Please!!!

Itty Bitty Soccer

2010-06-28T18:54:00.000-07:00

We enrolled Lil in a 6 week soccer program. She loves Tuesday nights because she gets to go run around with the other kids and kick the soccer ball. She is hilarious to watch. She's kinda spacey at this point, but we're working on it. Coach Gabby will call for all the kids to line up on the white line and Lilly is usually 10 feet away in her own little Lilly Land!!! She continues to improve each week. We went outside today while Avery was napping and kicked the ball around. She just needs a lot of one on one attention. Here are a few pictures of Lil and her team.

I think I like being a soccer Mom! :)

Nine Months Today!

2010-06-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

My baby is nine months old today and I'm having a hard time believing it! She is seriously the sweetest baby. I could hold, squeeze and love on her all day. She is so content and mild mannered. Her little smile just melts my heart.

Here are some things I want to remember about her...

She has three teeth. The bottom two and one on the top. Her smile cracks me up with just the one tooth on top.
She LOVES Lilly's baby dolls. She even says ba-ba when we encourage her to.
She is not crawling yet. She army crawls on a very rare basis, but she is just so content to just sit.
She doesn't like to put weight on her legs.
She loves to eat. She likes all vegetables and enjoys her baby cereal mixed with fruit in the mornings.
At her last Dr. Appt. she weighed 17 lbs. 4 oz.
Her thighs are super chunky and kissable.
She lights up when her big sister, Lilly, is near.

I want her to stay just the way she is. I know all too well that in the next couple months she's going to be a movin' and a shakin' and getting into everything so, I'm just basking in every moment until then. :)

A Very Special Fathers Day

2010-06-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

Today was the perfect Father's Day. It all began with waking Shane up with his all-time favorite breakfast, Biscuits and Gravy. Lilly and I made Shane and my Father Special Father's Day cards before church. I had the very special privilege of speaking in my ward at church today. I told my Dad that I was giving a talk honoring him and he drove all the way from the Tri-Cities to be here for it.
The talk went better than I had planned. I definitely was emotional, but it all came out coherent, I think. In my talk, I shared some of my most precious memories of my Dad. I'd like to share some of those with you all as well.

A cherished memory is when my dad would gather us around a rocking chair, those that would fit, snuggled on his lap, the others circled around on the floor, and he would lovingly sing primary songs. Some of his favorites were Give Said the Little Stream, I Have Two Little Hands and Because I Have Been Given Much. I will never forget the sweet spirit that I felt at that time.

Not only did my father help me with my school work, such as math and science, he also taught me how to cast a fishing line, bait a hook, skip rocks, and shoot a free throw. But, the lessons that have stuck with me the most are the life lessons he taught me.

My dad taught me to work. I can recall many Saturday mornings filled with washing cars, pruning fruit trees, planting, watering and maintaining the garden, washing windows, and painting the our fence.

He taught me compassion. When I turned 16 I was anxious to get my drivers license. I scheduled the appointment and went with my mother after school one day to take the driving test. The drive did not go as planned. The lady that assessed my driving abilities was intentionally intimidating and unkind. I remember the harsh words she spoke to me and my body shaking from the disappointment of utter failure. I was heart broken when I saw my mother waiting for me. She sternly told me that I’d just have to try again. On the contrary, I explained to her that she was wrong and that I’d never ever come back to take this test again and that I’d rather walk the rest of my life. My mother told my father about the days events and how I was mistreated. My dad was full of compassion. He came up with an idea. He called the Sunnyside DMV and got me an appointment there to take my test instead. He took off time from work and let me drive his new truck. That time I passed with flying colors.

I also remember as a small child, waking up in the middle of the night with horrible nightmares. I’d muster up the courage to scurry into my parents room and my dad would sweetly make me a little bed on the floor next to him and reassure me that everything was going to be okay. Again, he showed love and compassion.

My father also taught me about service. Shortly after I had my first child, Lilly, exhaustion set in from getting up 3-4 times in the night. I would call home to my parents and vent about my frustrations. My mom and dad invited me to come home to visit them so they could help me out with the baby for a few days since Shane was unable to with his taxing classes for school. One night my parents offered to take Lilly all night so I could get a good rest. My sweet dad got up in the night, made her a bottle, held, rocked and changed her. What a man!

Another example of service was when he’d make sure my car was started, scraped and filled with gas before I left for school in the morning around 6:30AM.

One of the greatest gifts my dad ever gave my family was the gift of providing for us in such a way that my mother was able to stay home. My father has worked at a government job for over 30 years. He has never loved his job….in fact, he really would rather be out fishing, but he has stuck with it for his family. I realize now what a truly big sacrifice that has been.

The final thing that I love about my dad is that he LOVES my Mom. I can never remember them saying unkind things to one another. I loved to see them share a kiss when Dad would come home from work. To this day, I love seeing them hold hands or snuggle. I love that my Dad is always so helpful to my mother. Thank you so much Dad for being you. You are the ultimate Dad and I love you.

I also just want to say again to my husband, Shane, how much I appreciate him. He shows me daily just how much he loves his girls. Happy Happy Father's Day to all the men out there!!!

Finally an Update...

2010-06-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while. I have lots to post. We have moved to Yakima, WA. We live in a cozy townhouse. It's such a relief to only have one neighbor instead of four. We are definitely looking forward to owning our own home soon. (Oh, how I love the sound of that!) Apartment living has been great, but it's about time to move on...
Speaking of moving on...Shane has begun his fourth and final year of Pharmacy school. This year is all rotation based. He is currently finishing up his first rotation at a mental health facility. He feels like he is learning so much. There will be no vacations for him until he finishes up in March. Then we'll begin the job search and he'll graduate as a Doctor of Pharmacy in May 2011!!!! I'm already anticipating that moment.
In the mean time, the girls and I hang out during the day. It's been an unusually cool summer here in Yakima. We're anxcious to whip out the pool and play, but the weather hasn't been permitting that. We have the cutest little library here that is seriously the size of my living room. It's darling...we'll be spending some quality time there. We also have an awesome park nearby where Lil can play and there's a great trail as well. Things are looking up.
I just got a new church calling as an activity day leader. I'll be working with 8-11year old girls. I'm really excited about it actually. I'm speaking in church on Sunday about Fathers. Life is good. I'm going to be posting a plethera of pictures soon.

Welcome March!!!

2010-03-04T08:43:00.000-08:00

It's almost been a whole month since I've posted anything and I'll tell you why... February was the month of pure sickness over here at the Anderson Household. Our sweet Avery started not sleeping at all and acting very cranky so I took her to the doctor. She had a bad case of pink eye, an ear infection and a horrible cold. Those three things combined are not a pretty combination. I've never seen a sicker looking infant. The next morning...dun, dun, dun...I wake up with the stink eye pink eye and a nasty cold. Shane had previously had the same cold, but got it again as well as pink eye. I felt for Shane so much too because he had huge tests and projects due and he was truly very ill. My pink eye cleared up, but silly old me put my old contacts back in my eyes thinking they really weren't that old and I'd save money by using them. Hahahhahahahahah...Um, I discovered that pink eye is the most contagious thing ever. The next morning---hello pink eye again.
The one reprieve I had was going to the Tri-Cities. Lilly got to attend her cousin, Addisyn's 4th birthday party. She had such a fun time! We stayed at my mom's and I was so grateful for all the help she and my Dad offered while we visited. I even got to attend a musical at Hanford High School, The Secret Garden. It was a treat to get out without any children. Thanks Mom and Dad Lichfield for watching my kids. I also got to spend some time with Grandma Nadine which is always a treat.
But wait, the next morning who wakes up with pink eye????? Oh yeah, my little Lilly. It was her turn I suppose. We ended up spending the whole day going to different doctor's offices, picking up medication and then desperately trying to get the eye drops in Lilly's eyes. (Now that was more of a challenge than I had ever imagined.)
I have to say the highlight of the trip home was celebrating in my sister, Wendy, and her husband, Tory's success! Tory is now one of the new Hanford High School Vice Principals. My Mom and I made a sign for the front of their house and a banana cream pie for them to enjoy. What a happy, happy day for The Christensen's!
So I smiled when I wiped off my dry-erase calendar and wrote the word March at the top. It's going to be a healthier, happier month. Things can only look up. I have to say even though it's been a very difficult month--through it all I love my children and my husband more. We pulled through it together. Heavenly Father blessed me with my family and he entrusted them in my care.

Retirement of the Blue Slippers

2010-02-06T15:05:00.000-08:00

Lilly loves to dress up. For Christmas, her Nana gave her a trunk full of dress ups. She wears them occasionally, but there is one dress up that 'trumps' them all. This blue Dora dress. I got this nightgown for her when we moved to Spokane. She has worn it everyday since then. We have had to establish rules when she can and cannot wear it...like...Nope, your Dora dress doesn't go outside. With the blue dress came a matching headband and coordinating slippers. Lilly's little toes finally burst through the seams yesterday on those special slippers. I don't know if I have the heart to throw them away. She's wearing them right now so I guess I'll put that decision off until another day. :)

A Thing for Purses

2010-02-05T16:05:00.000-08:00

I have a craving for a new purse. I love Vera Bradley. Which one do you like better? They are quite spendy, so I won't be getting one, but I can dream about it---right???

Avery at 4 Months

2010-02-04T10:45:00.001-08:00

We had Avery's 4 month Dr. Appointment yesterday. I had to have a little pep-talk with Lilly before we left because at the last appointment she had a major melt down when the nurse gave Avery her shots. It was actually very sweet, but a little stressful for me because Lilly was the bigger handful than Avery. When they were giving Avery her shots at her 2 month appointment Lilly sat in a corner sobbing and yelling at the nurse to stop hurting her sister. This time we were a little better prepared and the nurse gave Lil some candy right before she administered the shots. Avery was a champ and she sure is growing.

She weighed 13lbs. 6 oz. (25-50%)
25 inches long (75%)
and her head was 16 1/4 inches around.(50%)

Developmentally she is coming right along too. She rolled over for the first time from her tummy to her back January 23rd. (The day after she turned 4 months.) She is starting to grasp objects and she LOVES to chat and get any kind of attention possible. We've started giving her rice cereal at night before bed. As of now, she's not too crazy about it, but we're working on it.

I took some pictures of my little sweetie on Tuesday morning. She is such a little dollie.

Surprise Gift

2010-01-27T15:11:00.001-08:00

Yesterday Shane came home from work and was pretty excited to tell me something was coming in the mail for me. I love surprises and anticipated the doorbell ringing. He got me some new runners. He said,

"Consider them an early spring/Valentines/Easter/Mother's Day gift."

I was laughing so hard. My man LOVES shoes. And I love my man. Thanks Shanie.

Shane's Big 28

2010-01-26T12:21:00.001-08:00

My man's birthday was December 28th. Too bad I'm posting this a month late, but hey better now than never.
On his big day, My sister, Wendy, her 3 kids, and my sister, Jennie, and her hubby and 3 kids headed over to the church to play some basketball together. We missed Tory because he was working on fixing up The Christensen's new home in preparation for them to move in. We are so excited for them, but we missed you, Tory. We played a very lively game of bump and a little 3 on 3. We enjoyed some good times with the Lichfield's this holiday. I love my family so much.

For dinner that evening Jennie and Jake, Wendy and Tory and Shane and I all went out to dinner at Shane's favorite restaurant, Red Robin. The birthday boy ordered his usual Bonzai Burger. Thanks Mom and Dad Lichfield for watching our Lilly and Avery.

After Red Robin, it was back to the Lichfield's to enjoy Shane's favorite black magic birthday cake. It has 8 Milky Way candy bars in it. It's divine if I must say so myself. I love you Shane.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-07T15:01:00.001-08:00

We stayed at the Lichfield household for the majority of the Christmas Break this year. Thank you Mom and Dad for being so hospitable. We enjoyed the time we had together and our girls absolutely loved it too.

The annual Spanner Christmas Party was at Shane's Aunt Karin and Uncle Dan's house. We devoured the prime rib and basked with family in the Christmas spirit. Ariel and I both ended up being twinners and wearing purple. I love this picture.

Lilly and Addy playing with the ball popper. Now that is a total cheeser grin on Lil's face! We all got to meet Shane's cousin, Cameron's little girl, Estella. I don't think I got a photo of her, but she is so darling.

Classic Avery--cooing, smiling and talking away. She was definitely our greatest gift this Christmas.

The Cousin Trio.

Christmas morning---Crazy hair and all!

Lilly opened her Santa gifts at Grandma Lichfield's. She loved her new game, magna doodle and books.

The girls again.

We all look quite rugged in this photo, but here is our little family. It was a joy to be together.

Lilly's Birthday

2010-01-05T19:32:00.000-08:00

I'm playing a little catch up. It's amazing how the month of December flew by. I still can't believe we've moved into a new year.
Lilly's 3rd birthday was on December 18th. On the actual day we didn't do a whole lot. I convinced Shane that we needed to go to Red Robin for dinner. Lilly picked out a new favorite shirt, we gave her giant Lego's, The Princess and the Frog book and The Three Bears book. It was pretty simple, but she loved it. I think her favorite part of the day was at the restaurant where everyone sang happy birthday and she got to eat an enormous ice cream sundae all by herself. After our yummy dinner we headed over to Target and walked around for like an hour while Lil walked up and down the toy isle pointing out things she liked.
We had a huge family party at my Mom's house in the Tri-Cities four days later. I asked Lilly about a month prior to her big day what she wanted. This little 2 year old knew exactly what she'd like for her birthday....

"I'd like a pink butterfly cake, party hats, and a pinata."

Everyone needs to hear the way she says pinata. She sounds very authentically Hispanic. (Thanks Dora!)

This is the finished butterfly cake. I think it turned out so cute! My mom helped a whole bunch and Shane definitely put some work in as well. DARLING!

This picture just says it all. She was so pleased with her pink butterfly cake, pinata and party hats.

Avery was a dream baby as usual. Aunt Wendy made her giggle louder than I've ever heard. I love the party hat!

Shane taught Lil how to hold three fingers up to show that she is three. She was so excited to have her cousins celebrate with her.

Hitting the pinata.

Hitting the pinata even harder.

After all the kids took a couple turns hitting the pinata we brought in the designated hitter KALEB!!! He ripped that unicorn up very nicely.

And the treasured prize!!!

Everyone making silly faces. I love this picture.

Our little family. What a perfect party with good food and family. Happy Birthday my sweet Lilly.

Avery at 2 Months

2009-12-03T09:11:00.001-08:00

We went to the Doctor yesterday for Avery's 2 month checkup.

She weighs 10 lbs. 6. oz. (25th percentile)
She is 24 inches tall (90th percentile)
And her head is 15.5 inches around (50th percentile)

She is the sweetest little thing. She LOVES to talk and smile. Avery makes me LOVE being a mom!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-03T07:50:00.001-08:00

I wanted to post a few pictures from Thanksgiving. We had such a nice time being with family and enjoying our many blessings.

Lilly loves to help in the kitchen. Nana was making pumpkin pie and Lilly had to be in on the action.

I love how patient Luanne is with her. Lil makes big messes and it's never a big deal with Nana.

Addy and Lilly were very excited to see eachother at the annual Spanner Bingo Party!

I was asked to come up with some decorations for the tables for Thanksgiving dinner. I found this idea online and it turned out to be a hit. Thanks to my father-in-law, Kerry, for putting it all together for me.

Papa Kerry holding our sweet Avery. I can't get enough of this kid.

On Saturday Luanne and Ariel through a baby shower for our friend Tausha. I made this diaper cake and it turned out so cute.

Luanne, Tausha and Ariel. Tausha doesn't even look pregnant here. I can't believe she is due in less than four weeks.

My sweet sister, Jennie. Oh how I love her! Whenever I get to see her, it just never seems like there's enough time to be together.

Some of the Lichfield grandkids. Lilly was certainly not in a picture-taking mode here. She was pretty tired from all the action and excitement.

In fact, Lil was so tired she fell asleep in the car like this while we were on our way to get pizza. I laughed so hard. You have to be pretty dang spent to fall asleep with a cracker hanging out of your mouth. She woke up when I was taking her out of the carseat to go back inside. I tried to take the cracker out of her mouth and her hand automatically went up to grab it and she said "No, I want my cracker Mom!"

Showered With Love

2009-11-29T19:35:00.000-08:00

About 4 weeks ago, we all went to the Tri-Cities to have Avery's blessing. On Halloween morning Luanne, and Shane's Aunt Mar, through Avery a baby shower. It was simply perfect. A few of my close friends came along with Shane's Aunts, and my sisters. It was so sweet to celebrate my sweet Avery.

Some of my dear friends... It was so fun to see my sister-in-law, Kathy, Kim Bowman and Jess Forsyth. I have the best girlfriends.

I had to snap a couple pictures of the decor. Simply elegant I would say...

The tables---We devoured various quiches, Divine pumpkin muffins, fresh fruit and more.

Great Grandma Pam and my sister, Wendy, with the guest of honor.

Here's Lilly's cousin, Addy. They love each other so much.

This one shows a little more of their personality. They are both so beautiful.

My niece, Lauren and Addy and Lilly. They had their own little table.

My sweet mother-in-law. She worked so hard to make everything lovely. I love her!

My sister, Katie, lives in Utah, so she was unable to attend the shower, but she sent the cutest gift. A homemade blankie with soft minkie fabric. Avery snuggles up in it daily. Thank you Katie! We missed you!

The little girlies did such a good job helping me open the gifts. I love how excited they get---oh who am I kidding!? I was excited too. I was given some gorgeous gifts. Thanks to everyone.

Wanna Wiggle?

2009-11-20T08:50:00.000-08:00

If you live in the Tri-Cities, or anywhere near...I have an event you just have to attend!!! My brother-in-law, Tory, is an AMAZING singer/songwriter/entertainer. He is performing this Saturday - November 21st, at 2:00 PM at Hastings in Richland, WA
(1425 George Washington Way) His material is geared toward children, but his songs truly have a positive message for all ages. He will be singing songs from his first CD and now his brand new album---SUPERMAN CAN!!! Bring your kids to Hastings and Wiggle with Tory and Wiggles the fish!

P.S.--the performance is free and they will be handing out balloons, coloring sheets and candy! Tory will also be signing CD's.

I'm including a link to his website. Click and experience the Wiggles magic!
www.WiggleLikeaFish.com

Too Cute To Spook

2009-11-02T18:38:00.000-08:00

We were in the Tri-Cities for Halloween weekend this year and boy was it a memorable time! We can't ever remember a better Halloween. Shane's Aunt and Mom put on a baby shower for Avery in the morning. After the party, Addisyn, Harper, and Lilly got dressed up in their DARLING costumes. Addisyn was a rock star, Harper was Abby Caddaby and Lilly was a fairy. They were so cute running around the Anderson's house together. They visited Great Grandma Pam and then we all headed over to The Lichfield's for spaghetti and meatballs and an all-time family favorite, scones. Grant and Lilly went trick-or-treating around the neighborhood. What a wonderful day. We sure love our families.

I'm not sure what this face is all about, but it's dang funny.

Harper and Lilly ready to get some loot.

The three cousins very anxious to go trick-or-treating.

I loved the back side of her costume almost as much as the front. :)

I wanted a picture of the two girls together---as you can tell Avery is not too excited about sitting with her sister.

Baby Avery and her oh-so-cute cousin, Abby. These two are only 1 week apart. They both had little Halloween outfits.

The Mamas and babies.

The cutest little trick-or-treaters. They were so polite.

The Scent of Fall

2009-10-13T11:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took both kids to the mall with me for one thing. The Bath and Body Works sale! Wallflowers are $6 right now. There is something about these little scented plug-ins that just make me happy. I had to restrain myself and only buy 4 boxes. When Shane got home I told him it was my anniversary gift, which was over a month ago. :) Right now my whole apartment smells like the autumn scent LEAVES. Ahhhhh...I can't think of a better gift.

Do you have little frivolous things that just make you happy too? Do share.

Avery Shae

2009-09-28T17:23:00.001-07:00

Avery Shae Anderson was born on Tuesday, Sept. 22nd at 12:01PM. We were lucky to have a fast and uneventful delivery. From the time the doctor broke my water---she came in 4 hours. Everything went like clockwork. She weighed 7 lbs. 5 ozs. We are so blessed to have her in our family.

D-Day....Tuesday!!!

2009-09-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

Well, there is an end in sight for this growing belly. My doctor has agreed to induce me on Tuesday morning, the 22nd, if our little one doesn't get here before then. Shane and I went to a pre-delivery meeting at Sacred Heart Hospital yesterday and it felt so good to just see everything and know what we are doing. We're all set for D-Day! (Delivery Day) I have a doctor's appointment on Monday morning before so we'll see if anything has changed.
We both can't wait to meet our little honey.

Preparing for Baby

2009-08-26T20:17:00.001-07:00

My very sweet mother came to visit me these last couple days and I basked in every second of it. We enjoyed sewing, shopping, dreaming up creative ideas, giggling and we even shed a few tears. I love my mom so much. She is one of a kind. I've never seen someone work so hard and serve others like she does. We made a rag quilt, baby headbands and we started on a diaper bag--all for my upcoming little sweetie. I love how creative we can be together. She inspires me.

The beginnings of the quilt--idea stage.

I organized and cut the fabric while my Mom sewed the strips together. It was so fun just to sit and visit.

My mom hard at work. She is an incredible seamstress.

Ta-Da!!! The finished product! Sew stinkin' cute, if I must say so myself.

It's even cuter wrapped around my Lilly. She didn't want to give it up.

I've been meaning to get all dolled up and snap some preggy pictures, but it just never happens. So today---after a very long day, Shane was kind enough to take this picture. No glamour going on, but hey it's documentation on how large I'm getting. I had a doctor's appointment today and there's simply nothing exciting to share. No progress this far, but I'm hoping maybe next week. I'm feeling really great though overall. I really can't complain. Life is good. :)

Lichfield Gathering

2009-08-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

Over a month ago...(this is obviously a long overdo post) My sister, Katie, and her family, Jennie and her kids and Kathy and Robby all came into town to spend a few days together. Naturally I had to be there to enjoy the family togetherness. Shane had to work so Lilly and I went and had a good visit. Here are some pictures of our trip.

Here is Grant and Lilly. They are only one week apart in age. They were each snuggling their stuffed animals.

Another of Grant and Lil. I love how it looks like they are telling cousin secrets here.

One evening we all had a big BBQ at Columbia Point Park. We ate yummy food, the kids played on the toys and Grandpa Lich took the kids fishing. I love this picture because it looks like they are combining their fishing power with their poles. Well, sadly nobody caught anything, but they sure had a good time.

Lilly LOVES her Uncle Andy. She clings to him like no other when he is around. He is so sweet to her. Lilly couldn't get enough of Grandma's books.

Evan and Lilly enjoying a true summer joy---POPSICLES!!!

She could have eaten the whole box. I have to admit they did hit the spot--even for a preggy lady.

Grant and Lil once again outside by Grandma Lich's blow-up pool.

My sister-in-law, Kathy, is due with her second child only a week before me again!!! It's so weird how our first kids were a week apart and I bet these second little girls will be only a week apart too. I'm 29 weeks here and boy has my belly grown since these pictures. I'll have to post a more recent picture soon.

Summer Pictures

2009-08-02T18:45:00.001-07:00

What a cutie!

Chunky Tennis Mama...

2009-07-27T12:25:00.000-07:00

I've always wanted to play tennis, but I could never get the rhythm down. I always ended up hitting the ball so hard it flew over the fence...yeah, not impressive. A couple weeks ago I went home to the Tri-Cities to have a little family reunion. It was so fun to see my sisters; Jennie, Wendy and Katie and my brother Rob. My sister Katie's hubby, Andy, is a tennis rock star. We went to Howard Amon Park one morning with all the kids. It was so fun to just hit the ball around with my sister, Katie. Andy was so sweet to watch Lilly while we played. I started to get more of a feel for things and decided that I really liked it.
Shane loves tennis, but I could never really play with him because I've been so terrible. I shared with him my new found interest and he was so excited. On Saturday he took Lilly and I to the store and bought us our very own tennis rackets. We went and played last night at a near by park and we had so much fun! Lilly enjoys it as much as I do---I think. I Shane said that I had definitely improved. I'd love to take some lessons now, but I think I better wait until I get this baby here. It was pretty comical watching me waddle around the court with my big belly. It was a dang good workout.
I think we better go play again tonight...

Fourth of July in Coeur d'Alene

2009-07-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Take a peak at our adventures over the Fourth of July.... So much FUN!!!

Lil loved playing on the beach--especially throwing rocks into the water.

Lilly and Grandma Nadine---swinging away on the beach.

The water in the lake was a bit cooler than Lilly was accustomed to, but she didn't want anyone to try and stop her from jumping in. Shane got in the water with her on a very little inner tube. I don't know exactly how they managed to balance on that thing. Lil wasn't a big fan at first, but warmed up to the idea quickly.

Nana and Papa Anderson took Lilly on a paddle boat ride. She was so tired and actually almost fell asleep on the boat.

More of our little paddlers.

We had so much fun on the Fourth of July! I told Shane I wanted to go fishing on the dock. We started fishing around sundown and I really didn't expect to catch anything. My first cast I catch about a 10 inch white fish. (I'm told that's some sort of trout.) I was so excited I yelled up to everyone at the cabin to let them know I caught something and to run for the camera to snap a picture. Right as Luanne was about to take a picture of me with my treasured fish, the fish jumped off my hook and went right back into the water. It was so ironic and so hilarious. Boy was I proud of it though. Shane caught this little guy after me. I'm going to be doing some more fishing soon.

After we fished, Luanne, Kerry, Shane and I roasted marshmallows and made s'mores on the beach. Yummy in my tummy! Later we rode out into the water on Papa's boat and watched the fireworks. It was quite magical. The full moon was gorgeous.

Here's a photo of our little ice cream lover. Papa took us on a boat ride across the lake to Harrison so we could go to a little ice cream shop and Lil got to play at the playground for a bit.

What a wonderful visit...I'm still thinking about it.

Weekend at Nana's

2009-06-28T20:55:00.000-07:00

We went to the Tri-Cities this weekend to enjoy some good times with Nana and Papa Anderson. Luanne's best friend from college, Carla, came into town from Utah so we got to see her too. We loved every minute!

Right when we got to Nana's she had some home cookin' all prepared for us---straight from KFC! It hit the spot. Then we all headed out to Cool Desert Nights on George Washington Way in Richland. There were tons of people and lots of old cars. My favorite part was my cookie dough blizzard from DQ. What a perfect way to end a beautiful summer evening. I snapped this picture of Lil and Addisyn on the lawn. Such cute little cousins.

On Saturday morning Shane went golfing with his parents and Carla. They had a wonderful time and invited Lilly and I to join them for lunch at Chapala Express, our favorite Mexican restaurant. After our yummy lunch, we picked up Addy and we all went swimming at the Horn Rapids Pool. Nana was definitely the favorite to playmate. Here they are singing ring around the rosies.

They have the coolest little kids pool complete with a fountain.

Lilly's startled reaction to the fountain. I love the look on her face here. I just see pure joy in both Luanne and Lil's faces.

Luanne and Carla---best friends for life. Carla actually played a HUGE part in Luanne's decision to join the LDS church. That inspired choice has changed so many lives including my own. Thank you Carla!

A moment with Mommy and baby sister in my tummy. Boy am I white---especially up to my little Indian brown daughter.

These girls are so cute together.

Doesn't get sweeter than that! Cousin Love!!!

This morning we woke up to Nana and Papa fixing us a yummy, hot breakfast. Lilly insisted on helping mix the eggs. Addisyn wanted a turn as well. Lilly wasn't too fond of giving up her whisk.

Nana gave the girls a bath this morning. She made them into unicorns. Again, I love the faces...

I snapped these pictures of Lil on Saturday morning. I love my little girl.

I asked Lilly if we should put on her blue outfit and she said oh yes, she wanted to wear her blue elephant.

I can't forget to mention that I got to go and watch my sister-in-law, Ariel, dance at a Fever arena football game on Saturday evening. It was so fun to watch her in action. She is such a beautiful girl and talented dancer. The game was tons of fun to watch too because it was so fast paced. I was very surprised how much I got into it. Carla actually owned an arena football team at one point in her life so it was interesting to sit by her and hear all of her insights.

Until next time---what a fun weekend that I won't soon forget!

A Fall Craving for a Pregnant Woman

2009-06-25T09:33:00.001-07:00

I was putting Lilly to bed the other night and had this overcoming craving for pumpkin pie of all things--hit me. Pumpkin pie in the middle of summer!? Only one problem...I don't do crust. I've tried and I've come to the conclusion that I just don't have the right tools to make it. A non-stick pie circle would certainly help. The last time I made crust, Shane tried to help me get it unstuck from the counter with a spatula. So, I did a bit of searching online and found a recipe for crust that you just roll in a ball, lay in your pie plate and mold and stretch with your fingers. I was a bit skeptical, but it turned out tasting really good. I wanted to share the super-easy recipe with you all because I figured there just might be crust-challenged people out there just like me.

Pat-in-the-Pan Pastry

1 1/3 cups Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons ice cold water

And there it is folks! Stretch it out in your pie plate and then fill with your favorite pie filling. Last night I decided to try my creation and realized we didn't have any whipped cream or ice cream. I still had a small sliver, but today Shane is picking up some very yummy and essential vanilla bean ice cream to adorn the top.

A New Bike for A Big Girl

2009-06-07T19:21:00.001-07:00

We told Lilly that if she could do really well on the big potty we would buy her a new bike. Well the incentive seemed to work and we were off to Walmart to buy this little beauty.

A Dora Bike with a Dora helmet and knee pads--What more could a little girl ask for? She isn't into pedaling yet, but she'll get there. Now she is just content to scoot around the complex pushing the musical buttons and telling everyone about her new bike. She is growing up so fast and is such a little joy.

Too Much Kung Fu Panda

2009-06-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

We're over tending kids this morning and I asked Lilly to do something. She got some major attitude and said...

You're Not My Master!!

Yes, we have recently introduced her to the movie, Kung Fu Panda. I couldn't help, but smile and say...

Um, yes, I am your master and your mommy!

Potty training is going better and we've decided to give it another week. Lilly can actually tell us when she needs to go most of the time and has definitely learned some bladder control. This whole week has been a bit frustrating since I haven't been able to leave the house much, but I'm hoping with some serious consistency and patience things will continue to improve. I've been walking around everywhere with a timer hooked to my shorts so I can remember to get Lil to the bathroom. It's a pretty funny sight.

Shane started his internship today and it already feels good to get back into a routine. I really hope he enjoys what he is doing and learns a lot.

The Spokane Transition

2009-05-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

Well, we're officially moved to Spokane. It's been a bit crazy. We were so lucky to move into a brand new, beautiful apartment. It's so nice to have everything in perfect condition. I'll have to post pictures when we get a bit more settled.
I only have one MAJOR complaint. We live very close to a train track and consequently there are trains going by night and day. They don't bug me so much during the day, but during the middle of the night...yeah--they BUG BIG TIME! We sleep with our window open because it's gotten pretty warm here and I'm only getting more and more pregnant by the day. So...I have a question--is there such thing as train honking ediquette? Shane says that he thinks the train conductors are required to toot their horns a certain amount of times to warn people of the train. Well, some of the train conductors toot their horns like 3 short toots and then there's those other train drivers. Seriously they totally overdo the tooting!!!!! Should I be saying honking? :) They lay on the horn for like 10 seconds at a time like 5 times. It wakes me up every time...I guess it's just going to take some getting used to. I mean who do you contact about disruptive train tooting????
We have also started potty training our little Lilly. Not fun, but I will say that I think she is improving. I was under the impression that it would take us one week to get her all potty trained and I'm not so sure that is going to happen with her right now. She still is having a hard time letting us know when she needs to go. We have to set timers and make sure we have her try to go every 20-30 minutes which makes a long very long day, but we're giving it a go. I said I'd give it a week so---here's hoping she makes a lot more progress by this coming Monday.
I'm helping one of my dear friends, Sabre, out these next couple weeks by tending her two adorable and very well behaved children. It's working really well because we don't have a home phone or internet or cable yet so I'm able to use their technology while I'm here. Lilly also loves having a little playmate. It's really good for her to be spending time with other kids before I have this next little one.
I'm so enjoying my pregnancy. Things are going so well. Our little 'unborn' girl sure is a kicker. I love to feel her move and I really can't wait to hold her. We still haven't decided on a name, but I'm sure that will come soon enough.
So life is good. I'm adjusting to the size and sounds of Spokane. We went to our new ward last Sunday and really enjoyed it. Shane starts his summer Pharmacy internship this coming Monday at Albertson's. We miss all our sweet friends in Pullman.

Oh So Girlie

2009-05-06T17:17:00.001-07:00

We had our ultrasound today...and it's definitley NOT a Boy!

Before my appointment. I'm about 20 weeks along.

It's a Girl!

Her little profile.

Little foot.

We've got a live one! The ultrasound tech mentioned twice how active our little girl was. And here I was hoping for a less active little boy...well, what was I thinking!? I'm pretty sure we've got another Lilly on the way. Good thing we like her so much! :)

Goodbye Pullman

2009-05-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

The time has finally come that it's time to move out of Pullman. I will ALWAYS hold a very special place in my heart for this little college town. We have created so many memories here, including having our first child here---this is where we became a family and realized that we could make it on our own.
We've made so many life-long friends that I have grown to love so much. There are a few people that I'd like to thank.

Shaila Hardy--We moved here the same time and became instant friends. I'll never forget running to your apartment at Outlook late at night, eating your oh so yummy chicken alfredo, various varieties of sweetened popcorn, and playing with Malcolm and baby Quinnie. More recently we've spent time walking and still eating together---I love that we both LOVE FOOD! You've always been like a sister to me and I feel like you take care of me. I love you and will miss you very much.

Carrie Crosland--I love how independent you are. You primarily take care of your two kids because of your hubby's demanding school schedule and you never really complain. You serve very selflessly at church and believe it or not--you are a great leader. We share in our passion for exercise and I've loved taking long walks around Pullman with you. You never exclude anyone and you are very positive. Even though you are stunningly beautiful...you have no clue. :)

Leslie Rushton--I admire your patience more than anything. Nothing seems to get you too worked up. I don't think you could ever hurt a soul. When we play games with you guys--you couldn't even take any cards from anyone except Lee for fear you might hurt someones feelings. You don't judge and you are content to listen more than talk. Your love of animals is infectious. You are pure sweetness.

Erin Baum--Little Miss "I get things done!". I love how you instigated pretty much all of our girl's nights and our playgroup. You are a master planner. You would do anything to help anybody. You are also a very service oriented person. Thanks for celebrating my 24th birthday with me and inviting us over for countless meals. Oh--we have had some good laughs.

Amy Harper--I don't think there is a mean bone in your tall body. I have enjoyed making table runners with you, quilting, singing, walking and laughing with you. I love how you are always smiling. Your family is such a good example for me. You give and show love to all that are around you.
There are so many others that I could go on and on about...Danielle--it was a pleasure getting to know you better in our playgroup and visiting teaching. Talia--I enjoyed all of your Sunday schools lessons and think you are amazing. The list goes on...

The point is that you've all made a huge impact on me and I know that I will remember the things you have taught me. I think we should have a big Pullman reunion sometime later on in our lives.

BIG SURPRISE ON.....WEDNESDAY!

2009-05-02T14:09:00.000-07:00

We have our ultrasound on Wednesday to check out our lil' babe growing in my belly...
We are both hoping for a boy---but, another little girl would be wonderful too. When we had our 20 week ultrasound with Lilly the technician couldn't determine the sex of the baby because Lil was being stubborn and refused to uncross her legs. We're hoping this appointment goes differently. All in all we are just praying for a healthy baby. Stay tuned...

Easter 2009--a bit late...

2009-04-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

The week before Easter, we headed to the TC for some Easter celebrations. We went to The Community Center Easter Pancake Feed and we also went to The Spanner Easter Party. It was a nice break to be able to visit our families.

Nana Lu got very into making crafts with the girls. They looked so cute in their bunny ears. All Lilly really wanted to do was go outside and play on the toys. Uncle Alex pushed the girls on the swings. Thanks Nana for a fun time, as always.

The Spanner Easter Party was held at Shane's Aunt Cody and Uncle Gary's house and boy was it lovely. The weather was perfect and the food was delicious. We had an icky egg coloring contest, an egg toss---which Shane and I ended up winning, and an egg hunt. Lilly's favorite was the egg hunt and the dying icky eggs. She wanted to eat the whole egg shell and everything. Mostly it was so fun to get Addisyn and Lilly together. They love each other so much--it's adorable.

Gassy

2009-04-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

We've explained to Lil that we have to put gas in our car for it to function properly. Whenever I go to the gas station she is the first to say...we gotta put gas in the car so it can run. I applaud her knowledge and I marvel at how smart she is and how she remembers everything.
She also understands that SHE can have gas. The other day I asked her if she had gas and she said,

"Yeah, I'm filling up the car."

I about died laughing. She is getting to the point where she is saying really funny things. I look forward to all the silly things she'll come up with.

Brother OR Sister

2009-04-01T07:50:00.000-07:00

We've informed Lilly that Mommy either has a brother or sister in her tummy. At first, this was very confusing to her and she said,

"No, I have a baby brother or sister in my tummy!"

Now she's warmed up to the idea a bit and yesterday I asked her if it was a brother or sister and she said,

"A baby sister."

We'll find out in about a month. We can't wait!!!

My Own Personal Cheerleader

2009-02-27T17:59:00.000-08:00

Shane's parents are coming to visit us in about an hour and we are very excited to see them. In preparation for them coming, I've been cleaning the house. While scrubbing our kitchen floor, I hear my little Lilly going...

"Great Job Mom! Way to go!"

Who doesn't like their own personal cheerleader? Thanks Lil.

My Very Quirky Honey

2009-02-24T12:36:00.000-08:00

This last week I heard Shane casually mention that he hoped that it rained like 3 or 4 times. I was thinking...that is odd that he would wish for rain, but I never really asked why.
Last night he got his wish. It was a full-out down pouring and all the sudden I hear him rushing to get his jacket, shoes and.....car washing stuff! The light bulb turned on in my head right at that moment. If you know my Shane, you know that he loves his babies---Me, Lilly and his CAR!!!
I've never seen someone take such good care of anything. Why couldn't he take it to a car wash? Oh, well that would cost money people.
I wish I had a picture because when he came inside he was drenched from head to toe, but by gollie---he had a smile on his face that stretched up to his ears. He told me our neighbors were watching him from their window.
My honey finally got his wish....a clean car for a couple seconds. :) Talk about QUIRKY!!!

Lessons Learned

2009-02-21T20:44:00.001-08:00

Shane went to Spokane with one of his friends today to go to a golf expo. Lilly and I got to spend the WHOLE day together. It started out rough with a very whiny child and I have to say I was skeptical about how the rest of the day would go. We ended up going to McDonald's, because it has a play land, and we bought lunch as well. My dear friend, Carrie, came with her little son, Cody and of course baby Macey. We chatted and played in a very, very busy play land. The kids were a bit overwhelmed. One little boy, about Lilly's age, randomly walked up to her and pushed her across the room. It was interesting. He tried it one more time and I told him he was being a bad boy. Carrie gave him the evil eye as well. I know you are all thinking...where was his mother??? Oh sitting with everybody else at play land not watching their children. Carrie and I were seriously some of the only moms watching our kids.
After play land we walked over to the dollar store and had another adventure. I thought I'd splurge...(I know, seriously, a dollar) and get Lilly a balloon. Well everything was great and all until she handed the balloon over with out a weight at the bottom. Seriously what was that balloon blower thinking? Probably that I only paid a dollar and that's all I deserve, but obviously they don't have kids. I tried to tie the thing to Lil's wrist so we wouldn't lose it, but oh no--NOT HAPPENING. Some serious attitude came out with yelling and screaming about how I shouldn't touch her balloon and it was HERS!!! Ok, well we get up to the register to pay and one lady in the back of the line notices I'm having issues with my child and the balloon and says...

"Mommy, tie the balloon around her wrist."

I about lost it at that point! One more final attempt failed and we were outside with a screaming child, somehow we did manage to keep that DARNED BALLOON THOUGH!!! Never again will I buy her another balloon at the dollar store. I guess I might have to pay a bit more for a weight--money well spent. LESSON LEARNED!
We came home and I put Lil down for a nap and I must say, I enjoyed a little R&R as well. After her nap, we went for a BEAUTIFUL walk outside. It was so gorgeous that I could feel my stress melting away.
Walking outside totally rejuvenates me and makes me appreciate all the many things I've been given. I forgot about the pushing at Mickey Dee's, the balloon drama, and my resentment for my hubby taking off to Spokane with out me. I got to thinking that the mother at McDonald's probably had no clue that her child was being a bully and the lady at the Dollar store really was trying to help improve my situation. Most of all I thought about how much my husband loves golf and really needed a little R&R himself after a long week of hard classes and work. It's been a day full of friends, fun, drama, beauty, gratitude and most of all---REALITY.

I'm wishing I was....

2009-02-05T08:04:00.001-08:00

HERE!

Peace

2009-01-18T17:30:00.000-08:00

I had the sweetest little experience yesterday. I was on the way to the gym late at night, I had a new CD, Taylor Swift, blasting out my speakers and I was just overcome with gratitude. I even shed a few tears thinking of how fortunate and blessed I am. I was thinking about all of my amazing friends, my hilarious and adorable daughter Lilly and my hubby Shane. I've been given so much. I have much to be thankful for. This was an experience I'm not going to forget. It was like Heavenly Father confirming to me that I've made good decisions and that He wants me to be right where I am. It was a tender mercy. In one word----I felt peace.

Happy Birthday My Sweet Lilly

2008-12-18T13:49:00.000-08:00

My Dear Lilly,

My heart is so full of happiness as I sit and think about how much my life has changed since I had you.
I use to sleep in late. Now I'm up early giving you snuggles, watching Dora, and making you oatmeal.
I use to have long, luxurious showers. Now I hurry as fast as I can so that you don't hop in with me and cover the bathroom in water.
I use to primp over my makeup and hair. Now I am lucky if I get to wear any makeup because you like to steal it from me and wear it too. Anytime I do my hair, you insist that I do yours. :)
I use to take shopping trips to the mall. Now I call those trips 'adventures' and I never go unprepared. Fruit Snacks, teddy grahams and raisins are a must.
I use to clean the house independently and quickly. Now I'm constantly coming up with ideas to keep you busy like giving you a towel to mop the floor with mommy and letting you put the wet clothes in the dryer for me. Cleaning is now a process and must be premeditated.
I use to think about me. Now I think about you...and I LOVE IT!!! I thank Heavenly Father for sending you to me.

I love you always,
Mommy
P.S. Please stop growing so I can keep you just the way you are.

Lil & Daddy Love Wrestling

2008-12-10T13:52:00.000-08:00

Shane came home from classes today and this is what I saw. Can't get cuter than this!

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

2008-12-10T13:17:00.000-08:00

A couple days after Thanksgiving, Mom and Dad Anderson, The Linn's, The Mitchell's, Jeff Kinney and our family went for a little drive into the mountains to find a Christmas Tree. There wasn't much snow...it was actually more like mud, which was very fun for the kiddos.

A Stunning Bride and Groom (might I add)

2008-11-30T21:07:00.000-08:00

The day after Thanksgiving was my dear friend, Wendy's wedding. She was sealed for time and all eternity in the Columbia River Temple. It reminded me of my very own wedding just over four years ago. What a cold, BEAUTIFUL day! I think she might be the most stunning bride I have ever laid eyes on....and her hubby is not too shabby either. :)

Introducing...Mr. and Mrs. Lance Archibald!
Gorgeous in everyway!

They look like a Barbie and Ken Doll. After the reception Shane had to ask me if Lance wore man makeup. I laughed and said...no honey...some people are just VERY blessed!!!

Oh, I love my Wendy!

The Bridesmaids decked out in our gold dresses.

I love these silly pictures at weddings.

The gangs all here!

Big thank you to Amber for taking all these pictures and for hanging out with me all day.

Next time we'll be at your wedding Ambie.

Swim Lesson Fridays

2008-11-21T08:43:00.000-08:00

Lilly and I go to swim lessons each Friday. It has been so fun! When I tell Lil we are going to the pool she runs and gets her swim diaper and puts it on top of whatever she is wearing. It is hilarious. I've learned not to tell her we are going to the pool until right before we leave. She calls her swim suit a swim SOUP. She is too cute.

This is Lil after her lesson. She loves her new purple rain boots from Target. I'll miss our swim lesson Fridays.

I Love Fall

2008-11-18T11:44:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Jenn

2008-11-16T17:31:00.000-08:00

It's my sister, Jennie's, birthday today. I wanted to honor her by sharing a couple of my favorite memories with her.

I'll never forget when you came to the hospital after I had Lilly and stayed the night with me. I felt so relaxed to have you with me. You even brought me my very favorite ham chowder soup. You were the perfect example of a good mother.

I'll never forget our special times while you were living at the funeral home in Pullman. I remember, movies, always good food, laundry, games, quilting, crying, and LAUGHING. I truly do believe the reason my water broke with Lilly 2 weeks early was because you made me laugh so hard the night before.

I found this little birthday poem and although it's a bit corny, it says it all.

You're more to me than my sister
You are also my best friend
You're always there for me
For an ear or a shoulder to lend

You're the first to hear of my joys
It's you I go to if I've had a bad day
I love you more than I have words
To express myself or say

I love you Jennie.

My BFF is Getting Married

2008-11-13T19:33:00.001-08:00

My lifelong friend, Wendy, will no longer be Wendy Potter any longer. She will be Wendy Archibald. Weird. Exciting. I just love LOVE.
My sweet mother and I put on a bridal shower for her. We had a great turn out. It was a beautiful morning.

I snapped a couple pictures before guests arrived of the tables. I think my mom's house is so gorgeous.

Here is my mom's idea of food for a bridal shower. This just shows how different we are. It's all about presentation to her. She asked me how I was going to serve the coffee cake that I made and I told her I was just going to leave it in the pan, cut it into pieces and put a spatula on top for guests to dig in. Ha ha ha ha...that's didn't go over too well. :)

Amber Lou and her Mommy. More lifelong friends of Wendy's.

Most of the guests arrived right when the shower started and we were missing the bride.

The Bride!!! Ta-dah! And she came all blinged out in her grandma's jewelry. She looked amazing as you can clearly testify.

More Guests chit chatting. Love was definitely in the air.

Three of my closest friends growing up. It was so much fun to catch up.

I had to post this picture because I think it's so much more like us. We are just four goofy girls at heart...and my heart loves you all.

Carrie's Baby Shower

2008-11-13T18:54:00.000-08:00

My dear friend, Carrie, is having baby #2 and if you can't tell by the pictures...IT'S A GIRL!!!

We filled the little Northwood Office to celebrate little baby Crosland.

We did a brunch so we had lots of yummy breakfast treats and Erin made a baby carriage out of a pumpkin. It turned out so cute.

Leslie had us play...guess how big Carrie's tummy is. Talia won.

Katie, McCall and Carrie.

Little Crosland is going to be styling in all her new clothes. I just love little girl clothes.

Now she just needs to make her grand arrival. I can't wait to meet her. It was such a fun morning.

Halloween 50's Style

2008-11-13T18:21:00.000-08:00

Another fun Halloween! Thanks Nana Luanne for the beautiful poodle skirt.

Pumpkin Party

2008-10-29T20:29:00.000-07:00

Tonight a couple of us girls got together and carved pumpkins. I haven't carved a pumpkin since I was a kid. I surprised myself with how much I enjoyed it. I even liked the feel of the 'guts' in my hands. I love all the fall festivities.

Lil Stinker 2007

2008-10-28T19:39:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to post pictures of her this year! Oh, and the costume from last year fits her like a glove this year. She loves to dress up in her skunk costume.

Oh Yeah it's Ladies Night...

2008-10-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

I have anticipated this night for weeks. I think I even dreamt about it. And I'm pretty sure I almost cried last weekend when I thought I was going to have to miss our GIRLS NIGHT! (Luckily we rescheduled.) Five of my sweet friends got together and we went out to dinner and went bowling. Here's the exciting part---without kids and husbands. It was a delight.

Our hostess at our local Mongolian BBQ was kind enough to snap this shot, although she was altogether questionable in every way. We all thought she was a bit 'high on life'--if you know what I mean...

Carrie eight months pregnant and you can't even tell from the back. She is stunning pregnant and not pregnant for that matter.

Danielle & Erin happy as can be with out their little ones for an evening.

Lovely Leslie.

So I can't end this post without telling the nicknames I made up for everyone on the bowling screen.

Erin.........The Baum
Danielle.....Red Hot
Carrie.......Perfectly Preggers
Leslie.......Sassy Sultry
Erica........Truly Tempting

It was such a fun night and I have to thank all the husbands for watching our kids. I'll start dreaming about our next girls night right now.
Twilight Here We Come!!!

Lil & Addy at the Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-23T07:47:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Shane, Lil and I headed into the Tri-Cities to get a few things done. Luanne made Lilly her Halloween costume---the cutest poodle skirt ever and my Mom worked on my bridesmaid dress that I'll be wearing in about a month for my friend, Wendy's wedding. It was a productive weekend. I so appreciate every one's help. Luanne watched Lilly for pretty much the whole day on Saturday while I was at my Mom's making invitations for Wendy's bridal shower and Shane went with his buddy, Jared, golfing. While Luanne had Lil, she took her to the pumpkin patch with cousins Addisyn, Harper, and Aunt Ariel and Uncle Alex. Ariel sent me these pictures and they are just beautiful. I'm so sad I missed out.

I just have to say that my child hates getting her picture taken, while Addisyn is incredibly photogenic. Pretty funny, I think. Thanks Ariel.

Birthday Bash & Amber's Homecoming

2008-09-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

My birthday was on Thursday of last week and it was such a special day! I felt like I was just pampered. Lil and I went for our usual walk with our friends and then when I got home a fun birthday package was sitting on my doorstep from my sweet friend, Erin--complete with balloons and everything. Later on Shane and I ended up going to dinner at The Baums house where they made us yummy, steak, rolls, salad and I can't forget RAINBOW CHIP CAKE. What a treat! We headed off to the Tri-Cities on Friday morning so that I could make it to my lifelong friend, Amber's homecoming from her mission in South Africa. It was a memorable weekend. I cherish my sweet friends.

So this is Daniel, Erin's hubby, and our family getting ready for some cake!

Lilly was a great helper with blowing out the candles even though she kinda looks ticked off in this picture.

Aren't the twisted candles so fun? Erin, you are the BEST!

My sweet friend, Erin, and I. We really enjoyed the yummy cake.

Amber-Lou and I having a squeeze. Oh, how I missed her. She is amazing.

Welcome home Amber. I love you forever.

A Fun Little Tag

2008-09-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

5 favorite places I lived:
I actually had to list ALL of the places I've ever lived. :)

(This is the house I grew up in Richland, WA.)
1. Richland, Washington: such a good place to grow up. It's what I know.
2. Rexburg, ID: Way too cold to live long term. You've got to be kidding me!
3. Louisville, KY: Oh, I loved it so much. It's still one of the places I'd like to live for long term.
4. Pullman, WA: I have lived here for 3 years now and I can honestly say that I LOVE IT! It will be a sad day when we have to move away.
5. Yakima, WA: We spent an interesting summer here, but we learned that Yakima does have its perks. And no matter what people say--there are nice areas.

(Jennie and I at The Lichfield Family Reunion. See that muffin I'm holding? You want it don't ya?)
5 favorite snacks that I love:
1. Guacomole and chips--Qdoba style.
2. steamed petite green peas...yes, they must be petite with butter and salt & pepper. I must add soybeans in the pods as well. Delicious!
3. Fiber One granola bars. I know I sound like an old woman needing my fiber, but they just do it for me.
4. Doritos. I make sure that the side of the chip with the most possible salt & seasonings is face down on my tongue. Shane laughs so hard at me.
5. I love a good muffin. Num, num.

(A rag quilt that I made for Ariel's 2nd daughter, Harper.)
Jobs I've had:
1. Secretary at Battelle (high school)
2. Fill-in Dental Assistant (not fun--didn't last long, but I learned.)
3. Sales Rep at Village Quiltworks: This is how I gained my love of quilting.
4. WSU mail encoder: Funniest job ever! I walked 2 1/2 miles there then back in all kinds of weather. Damaged my eyes, back and brain because all I did was sit at a computer and type in zip codes and address so barcodes could be placed on WSU mail. Not a high point in my life. :)
5. Apartment Manager: Again--I learned.

If I had a million dollars...
1. Build my dream home
2. Pay off school loans
3. Buy Shane a golf membership wherever his little heart dreams of
4. Improve my wardrobe drastically
5. Travel

(This was Lil one year ago. I can't believe how she has grown.)
5 Things that I love:
1. Excercising outdoors on a beautiful, crisp Fall morning
2. A clean house
3. My Lilly Love---especially when she looks up at me with her big brown eyes and says, I wove you.
4. Dates with my hubby
5. Hot cocoa (with whipped cream)

This has been fun Natalie. Thanks for the tag.
Now it's my turn. I tag:
Jennie Stanfield
Leslie Rushton
Carrie Crosland

I can't wait to hear your responses.

An Addiction?

2008-09-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

Shane and I have recently been introduced to a game we cannot get enough of. We love it so much we anxiously watch the clock until Lilly's bedtime so we can sneak over to our friends house and PLAY...FOR HOURS. (Don't worry, they just live across the complex from us.)
I knew Shane was an addict when he came home from school one day, went straight to the computer and started searching websites so he could find it online. He found it alright---on Ebay of all things and yes, he wants the expansion pack. It's just ironic because I'm talking about the biggest penny pincher every imaginable and he is willing to drop like $50 on this game.
If you haven't played Settlers---BEWARE...You may want to play more and more. We are contemplating naming our next child Catan. :)

Happy Flowers from The Sweetest Friends

2008-09-07T15:35:00.000-07:00

I've had a couple hard days this week and have been feeling a little down. Yesterday Shane worked all day at the Pharmacy and when he came home he brought in some beautiful gerber daisies. I was so surprised. My husband bought me beautiful flowers. Then I looked at the little note with it and it was actually from a group of the sweetest girls ever! I couldn't help but shed a little tear. How kind of you to think of me! I seriously have the best friends in the world. I want you each to know how much I appreciate your love and support. These flowers made my whole day and they will keep making me happy because they aren't the type that just die right away. You girls have good taste...we must be friends. :)

Lilly naturally wanted to smell the flowers. Who wouldn't want to? They are so bright and cheery!

Then, against my knowledge, she picked one for herself. Such a cutie. Thanks again. I love you guys.

Back in our Home Town

2008-08-24T17:21:00.001-07:00

I have to say that it feels so great to be back in Pullman. The Palouse is truly our home. It's crazy to think that we only have one more year here and then we'll be moving on to Spokane. It feels like Shane and I became a family in Pullman. It certainly felt like home when we went to church today. I LOVE OUR WARD! We've made so many good friends and all the members are wonderful. I guess I just want to say thank you to all our sweet friends and members of our ward. It's fabulous to be back.

Lichfield Reunion 2008

2008-08-03T22:28:00.000-07:00

Lincoln City

2008-07-17T08:19:00.000-07:00

The Anderson's had a little family reunion mid June and I'm just posting photos. We stayed at a little beach house in Lincoln City. It was such a delight. We especially enjoyed having The Browns with us all the way from Arizona. We sure love you guys.

The 2nd day we were there we went to a fabulous aquarium. Lilly loved all the "ish" as she says.

There was one exhibit that you could actually stand up inside the fish tank. It made for some cool photos.

Uncle Jo-Jo and Lils.

It was so dark in the aquarium it was difficult to get good photos, but here we are all together.

Shane was helping Lil touch some fishies.

The 3rd day we went to The Tillamook Cheese Factory. We got some yummy ice cream as you can see. I'm not quite sure why I look so funky in this pictures. I'm pretty sure it's do to the angle.

Lilly with her ice cream

The cutest smile there is.

Our family inside a sharks mouth--and smiling!

The aquarium was both indoors and outdoors. This was a little playground for the kids. Kelly is helping Lil get some good sliding in.

Pretty sad that this is one of my only photos of us at the actual beach. It was brisk and refreshing. Lilly liked putting the sand in her mouth. Yum, yum.

Thanks Luanne and Kerry for a wonderful reunion.

One of Those Summer Days You Dream Of...

2008-07-09T19:44:00.000-07:00

Grant and Lilly enjoying a sunny day at their water park...THE BACKYARD!!

My favorite thing is to hear their little giggles...Ahh, it fills me for weeks.