The Roses...Mike and Angela

First day of school

2012-01-03T21:50:00.004-07:00

Today was Colton's first day of preschool. And, I am happy to say that it was a smashing success!

Colton is going to go to preschool 2 days a week for 2 1/2 hours. He is in a "turning 3" class, with 7 kids, 2 teachers (plus the aide that will go with him). Perfect. He is going to preschool primarily for the social aspect.

I made Colton a transition book/social story about preschool...and he has been asking "wanna go to school" ever since. We went in early today to get him used to the class and meet the teachers, and then I left.

No tears (on Colton's end or my end). And, when we were driving home, Colton told me "Want to go to school again." Perfect.

Here are a few pictures to document :) The pictures are terrible, but they do the job.

Yeah...Colton isn't really into the whole art thing :) haha.

And...it snowed for the first time. So, Colton and I made snowmen. Colton looked at one, turned to me and said, "Kinda looks like Colton. Snowman kinda looks like me." haha.

Melts my heart

2011-12-12T18:21:00.002-07:00

This little guy just melts my heart.

Here is a video of Colton "singing" his nightly songs with me. He is all of a sudden loving learning new songs and even starting to try and sing notes. It's probably my most favorite thing in the world.

Enjoy

Christmas time is here!

2011-12-04T19:58:00.006-07:00

It's officially Christmas season in our house! This year we aren't traveling anywhere to see any family, or having any come visit us...so I needed to make sure our house felt magical with just US in it. I'm sure it won't feel the same without family, but decorations sure do help :).

So, HERE is my Christmas-y house...and a house tour, since I never really gave one of our little rental in Ohio. (yes I know, I take terrible pictures)

Here is my newest project. Yeah, it's just a free pallet shelf and birds painted on it. I think it's cool, if you disagree...please don't tell me :)

Here is our playroom and Colton's therapy room! I made those bookshelves for $50 in wood. And I like my cheap hoop wall I put together for a few bucks. I wish I had hundreds of dollars to spend in this room, but I only had a $100 budget which went to pillows and art. We are poor students, what can I say. *Yes, that is a swing. YES, we are that cool*

Happy December everyone!

Colton's Autism Therapy Part 3 (LAST one)

2011-11-07T08:54:00.003-07:00

Whew, this is finally the last post about Colton's therapy! I've already talked about why we are doing therapy, the basics of ABA, and now I will talk about:

Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and things I do at home.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy focuses on speech obviously, but more importantly overall communication. There is a lot that goes into communication. Receptively understanding what people are saying and asking, expressively being able to communicate to others, eye contact, understanding how to comment/answer questions/follow instructions...etc. Although Colton can say 4-5 word sentences, most of his talking a few months ago was just echolalia (just repeating what I say or reciting a line from a book or movie). Speech therapy works not on just speech, but FUNCTIONAL (or useful) speech.

What we've worked on in Speech Therapy

We worked on having Colton make choices between two preferred objects ("do want the cow or the horse?"). This then transitioned into Colton making the choice without the verbal prompt (just holding up the cow or the horse, and having Colton choose). And NOW working with Colton on requesting for things with no prompt at all. This is an important skill because he needs to learn how to ask for things without me asking him first.
Along with the above was teaching Colton how to ask for help. Colton didn't have the instinct to ask for help, so he would simply just stand at a door pulling and pulling on it getting frustrated, and never think to ask "I need help mommy." Colton is a pro at this now.
Looking up at others eyes to acknowledge that THAT is where the object/help comes from. Ex. I wait at the door until Colton looks up at my eyes and says "I need help" before I intervene. Colton is also doing really well at this now.
Following simple one step instructions "put block in" "take puzzle piece out". Colton is now a pro at this too and working on 2 step commands, which he is also quickly picking up on.
"What" questions and "who" questions. Colton used to just repeat back the question when I'd ask him. Now he knows to answer basic "What" and "who" questions. Colton's echolalia has gone way down through working on this.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy focuses on helping kids with their basic everyday skills (or their occupation), which for kids is playing, drawing and other fine motor skills, self care skills and addressing Colton's sensory needs...so a lot of getting Colton's body to feel comfortable in a variety of situations. Colton has major issues with swings/gravitational insecurity, anything flying in the air (especially butterflys), odd textures, all basic grooming (brushing teeth, hair, diaper changes) etc.

OT- Where he was 4 months ago

When we first went in to OT 4 months ago, Colton cried the whole time and we had to go back in a private room where he clung to my lap the whole time. It took us 2 weeks to even get him to LOOK at the main room, and a month to touch the swing. He wouldn't hold a pencil, eat with utencils, or do many fine motor activities.

OT- Where he is now

Colton LOVES Occupational Therapy. He is so happy there, and willing to try everything the therapist wants him to try. He still doesn't like the swing, but tolerates it in small doses. He can draw, and enjoys fine motor activities. He even tried out a tricycle the past few times! It's so excited to see him try new things, where it was impossible before.

ME-Therapy

Parents make a huge difference in the outcome of early intervention. No pressure right? haha. So, I attend all Colton's therapies, take notes of things to work on, and then actively work on all the tasks. It makes a difference because Colton's Speech Therapist told me that Colton was improving much faster than she anticipated.

ME- ABA

I have received training in all the ABA classes, so that everything I do reinforces what he is learning in ABA. There are certain ways to handle situations, and to handle behaviors...and I make sure it is all in line with ABA. Mainly, I am consistent, I follow through on everything I ask him (don't think I'm amazing here. I'm very careful what I ask him to do, since I know WHEN I do I NEED to follow through on it), I am calm and patient, I am positive and always rewarding good behaviors, I don't emotionally give in to tantrums and other negative behaviors.

ME- education

I take all the classes I can. I've taken the ABA classes that my therapists took. I also took a 5 week Parenting Your Child with Autism class. I will continue to read and attend classes to continually learn the best ways to help Colton.

ME- data keeping

For ABA, I keep some basic data to help the Psychologist and Case Manager. I track and tally negative behaviors, I keep a food log, and other logs.

ME- logistics

I manage all the insurance, early intervention, school district, finances, therapist schedules/hours, pay, meetings etc. A team of 8 therapists, and 3 case managers keeps me busy.

And....that's it! If you've made it through all 3 of these parts, you deserve a trophy! Hope you learned a little bit about what we do. I am so grateful to be able to have the support and resources to get Colton the therapy he needs. I realize that this does not happen for all kids, and I feel so fortunate. We are really so blessed. We are a happy family, and I love my little guy.

Colton's Autism Therapy Part 2

2011-11-04T12:40:00.003-06:00

So, now that you understand basics on why we are doing therapy for Colton, what areas we are trying to help, and what we hope to achieve (see last post)...

...here is an overview of ABA, the main therapy we use for Colton.

(In my final post, I will talk about his other therapies)

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)

Colton is involved in Nationwide Children's EIBI (Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention) program. Hours recommended are 25-40 hours a week, and Colton is currently around 25 hours. He has a psychologist, a case manager as a day to day contact, and 3 aides that work daily with him at home, school (in a few months), and in the community.

Applied Behavior Analysis is a scientific approach to understanding behavior and how it is affected by the environment. The science of behavior analysis focuses on principles about how behavior works, or how learning takes place. Through research, behavior analysis has developing techniques for increasing useful behaviors and reducing negative behaviors. It is used to help skills in all areas including basic skills like looking, listening, imitating, as well as complex skills like reading, conversing, and taking the perspective of others.

Basically, it's looking at things from a behavior perspective, and breaking things down to the smallest/lowest level...seeing where Colton is successful...and then building on it.

What does research say about ABA?

Although unfamiliar to a lot of people, ABA is widely recognized as an effective treatment for Autism and endorsed by many state and federal agencies. Studies show that children with Autism show great improvements in their cognitive, communication and adaptive skills. And, (since Colton falls in this category), these studies also show that many children that participate in early intensive ABA for at least 2 years acquired enough skills to participate in regular classrooms with little or no ongoing help.

What does ABA therapy look like for Colton?

We have aides come to our house around 5 hours a day (2 2.5 hour shifts), 6 days a week to work on programs outlined by our case manager and psychologist. I am very involved in the whole process and have received training in all the ABA areas as well. Everything is fun, with a lot of positive reinforcement, breaks, and play time. They do the programs at a little table we have for him, or wherever it makes sense. Each time they bring him over to the table, they do 4-8 trials of a program (ex. trials means saying "do this" 4 to 8 times with putting the block in the bucket, or imitating an action), and having Colton respond each time...either on his own, or having them take his hand and help him do it, if he is not doing it.) There are also reinforcements involved like verbal praise, food, high fives etc.

Here are just a few of the basic programs Colton is working on now. They sound a little dumb and simple, but I assure you it is NOT so simple for Colton and all very important things for all future learning and success.

Imitation- this is basically Colton learning to imitate things that people are doing. Right now we are on a basic level where the aide says "do this" for the prompt and then does some action (bang a drum, put a block in the box, push a car, clap hands, touch nose), and then Colton is supposed to do the action. This basic act of imitating is usually just instinct in kids, but Colton lacks it. Imitating is the basis for all learning, because you look to others to see what they are doing, and then copy them to learn. It also teaches Colton basic compliance, which he had none of.

Matching- Matching is another basic skill of learning. Colton first matched objects, then flash cards, then 2D to 3D, then similar objects, and how he is sorting. Matching leads into sorting, and grouping, and recognizing patterns, and all sorts of learning skills.

Puzzles- Learning problem solving skills. Colton started with just a 3 piece puzzle and is now doing 8 pieces of a 12 piece puzzle on his own.

Fine Motor- Using utencils, finger strength, pencil grasps etc. Colton works on coloring, playing with playdoh, putting coins in a bank (help his grasp), putting clothespins on a lid (strength and grasp)

Toy Play- Playing properly and functionally with toys. Colton tends to narrow his interests, become ritualistc, and rigid with his toy play. As in, if left up to him...he would play with the SAME toy in the SAME way every time and not vary from it. You can't be successful playing WITH other kids, until you know how to properly play with toys on your own.

Receptive Commands- Following simple commands like "clap hands" or "touch table". Colton used to ignore all commands, and only act on them if he wanted to. He needs to be able to follow commands from others, and in a variety of circumstances.

Receptive Object Labels- Learning basic vocabulary.

"Hi" "Bye" program- Learning to say Hi when people come in a room, and Bye when they leave. That involves looking up at them, saying Hi, and sometimes saying their name.

"Come here" program- Learning to come in the general area of the person asking you to "Come here."

Where Colton Was

When we first started ABA, Colton cried the second he would see any therapist, minimally interact, and bury his head in the ground every time anyone asked him to do anything. He never would respond to what I'd tell or ask him, and only performed tasks on his own terms. I once tried for 30 mins to get him to put in one puzzle piece at an evaluation while he screamed the entire time not complying. He did not eat with utencils, look to me for reactions, or come to me to involve me in activities and throws major tantrums multiple times a day... and on and on...

Where he is just 3-4 months later

Colton now loves all his therapists. He goes downstairs happily with them, pushes me out and says "bye mommy" while closing the door. He interacts, plays games, laughs, and talks to the therapists. He comes over to the table and participates in all programs. He quickly learns programs, because he is paying attention and being reinforced positively. He engages with me so much more, looks to me for my reactions, imitates my facial expressions, handles demands being placed on him, and only throws tantrums about once every week.

Night and day difference. He is improving so much. I work constantly, but it's all worth it...because his life is improving and he is happy. And that is what it is all about. I love ABA.

Ugh, wow. I'm sure no one read all that. :) I'M tired just re-reading it!

Colton's Autism Therapy Part 1

2011-10-28T13:41:00.005-06:00

(I am not an Autism expert, and do not pretend to be. I AM, however, becoming an expert on Colton's Autism and his therapy. Every child on the Autism spectrum is different and every parent makes the decisions that are best for their child. And I am the last person to judge.)

PART 1

In an effort to help people better understand Colton's therapy and my life...here is a basic Q&A I put together of Colton's Autism therapy. Tomorrow I will post details on the actual therapy.

Q. Colton has Autism, but what does he exactly need therapy for?

A. EVERYTHING. Autism affects all aspects of Colton. He has deficits and issues including: communication (and speech), social-adaptive behavior, self help skills, gross motor, fine motor, play skills, repetitive behaviors, sensory issues...etc.

Q. How do you possibly target all those areas?

A. ...and this is why we have 30 hrs a week of therapy (primarily ABA-Applied Behavioral Analysis).

Q. I always thought there is no chance for a kid with Autism, why do you try so hard?

A. If there is one thing I've learned in the past 5 months, it's that Autism is NOT the end. Hard hard work and early intervention make a HUGE difference.

Q. Sounds like you are just therapy-ing the living day lights out of him. Why don't you accept him for who he is?

A. I ASSURE you, there is not a mom out there who loves, and is more accepting and encouraging of their child. Therapy is my way I can help Colton reach his potential, not take away who he is.

Q. What is your ultimate goal with Colton?

A. Right now, my goal is to have Colton be able to attend a normal school one day, and eventually without the help of an in-class aide. I want him to experience life, not be sheltered from it. I want him to be capable of having meaningful relationships with peers and others. And one day...I'm hoping he'll graduate from high school, go to college, and maybe even get married...but that's looking really far ahead :)

This post is getting long, so tomorrow I will post about the basics of Colton's therapy. I know...you are so excited you can hardly stand it. haha.

Success!

2011-10-26T12:16:00.003-06:00

Our ward had our Trunk or Treat last weekend...and it was a SUCCESS. Colton was The Man in the Yellow Hat, and I have to say, I just giggled every time I would look at him since I thought he was so cute. (thanks mom for the amazing costume. You rock). Looks like my little social story (see post below) paid off! When asked, "Colton, what is your costume" he would respond "Man in the Yellow Hat!" (which is great since he used to just copy back to us verbatim what we would say, now he is responding to some basic questions!)

He even perfectly would say "Trick or Treat" and "Thank you" to every car. My mommy heart was so proud. Don't tell Colton that I ended up eating the majority of his Halloween candy :) Whoops!

And, I decided to go as a frog. I know, I really went all out this year! haha.

Preparation

2011-10-12T18:46:00.004-06:00

So, I wanted to introduce you to a little thing I love called a "social story". I make these little "social story" books for Colton to help him with transitions, events, or different experiences. I've made books for changing diapers, getting into a car, going to bed, going to a wedding...and NOW....FOR HALLOWEEN!

I always feel a little silly making these. But, the bottom line they help Colton know what to expect.

And I now present to you...Colton's Halloween book. (4 pages per sheet) My favorite page is "My friends dress up as animals, princesses, and ghosts. Some even wear masks or funny hats. But it’s okay, because costumes are fun and just pretend."haha. And YES, that is Colton's face I put on a random kids Man in the Yellow Hat costume. haha. Awesome.

Halloween here we come!

Fall

2011-10-08T19:46:00.006-06:00

ahhh...(that is a sigh and not a yell)...there is something so wonderful about fall. So rejuvenating, so calming, so cozy, and energizing. I LOVE it. We've been taking full advantage of the gorgeous weather and beauty all around us.

Everywhere I look, drive, see...I just breathe in the beauty and fall colors. (If that makes any sense) It makes me happy. That, and I've been building some which always is good for my soul.

And here are a few pictures of us (and my recent build):

and...the newest addition to the family: My $50 table I built! LOVE love love it. It makes me smile every time I look at it.

That's all for now.

Grateful

2011-09-18T19:29:00.004-06:00

I've been feeling very grateful recently, a new kind of "grateful".

I used to say:

"I'm so blessed, I'm having a healthy pregnancy" (when pregnant)

"I'm so grateful, I have a beautiful healthy baby" (when I had Colton)

"I'm so blessed with my perfect little family. As long as we are all healthy and happy, that's all that matters. Everything will be fine as long as Mike and Colton are fine." (over the past few years)

(Everyone at times goes through hard things. Really hard things.)

Well, what about when you DON'T have a healthy baby, or what about when something bad DOES happen? What happens when your family ISN'T the perfect family you dreamed up?...

...when your child ISN'T okay...

How then...can you still be grateful?

I don't exactly have the answer... but I am learning that feeling grateful is not related to an ABSENCE of trials. I know that I am more grateful right now than I ever have been in my life. I'm grateful for Colton. I'm grateful he is mine. If you lined up a million kids, I STILL would pick him. Autism isn't ideal (and I'm still not quite "grateful" for it yet. I am human afterall.), but I don't even care because Colton is seriously awesome and the coolest kid I know. I'm grateful for every step of progress he makes. I'm grateful for Mike, and his ability to relate and care for Colton. I'm grateful for our therapists. I'm grateful we are able to get him the therapy he needs. I am grateful for a supportive extended family. And most importantly, I'm grateful for the peace I feel. The peace which I know only the Savior can bring.

To me, my little family is perfect. And I feel so blessed.

(See, I told you he was awesome. Pumpkin stickers, PJ pants, football, strolling around the hood. )

The Balancing Act

2011-09-11T19:54:00.004-06:00

Life is one big balancing act. As a mother, it gets very tricky keeping all of life's demands in balance. We have children, husband, church, home, work, and ourselves we need to worry about.

Right now, I am way outa balance. In my mind, I feel like I have to give 200 percent of my energy to the "children" category, which leaves nothing for the other categories. While working hard for your kids IS a good thing, neglecting your OWN needs is not good.

It's funny how minimizing our own needs doesn't actually make us more productive in the other areas...for me, it actually does the opposite. The more time I spend on myself, the better and more effective I am in the other areas. Likewise, when I DON'T take time out for myself, the rest of the areas suffer.

So, with that...here are a few things I'm doing to keep myself balanced (aka projects on a student budget):

Project #1: Hoop Wall (completed) $15. Colton's therapy room, needed some wall art, and this was a cheap fun way to do it. That, and we have red couches so it is hard to coordinate with those.

Project #2: Pillows (completed) $15. I also have some yellow ones I made too for an additional $20.

Project #3: New dining set (not started yet). Since the movers lost some of our stuff, we only have 3 kitchen chairs. Living on a student budget, I am going to make this super easy table for $50 and buy these ikea chairs. This table is great because I can make it whatever size I want, it's solid wood, and will take me just a couple hours to make. Total new dining set=less than $300.

Project #4: Curtain (not started) FREE. I also really want to make a ruffle valance (like this, but a valance) out of a sheet for downstairs, but I'm worried my window may be too wide to make the ruffles...hmmm....

And...just because...here is a picture of Colton. Sweet sweet face.

Any other project ideas? Mike starts school in a week, and so I'm going to need a lot more projects to work on in the evenings!

Faith vs Fear

2011-08-14T12:43:00.004-06:00

Replace fear with faith. Easier said than done. I feel like there is a constant fear vs faith war going on in my head. Sometimes when I wake up in the morning I just feel all beat up and emotionally drained from the battle that goes on in my head.

For the record, I always used to pride myself in being an optimistic person. I pretty much always felt like things will work out, and that whatever happens I can still be happy. I felt like I was flexible, resilient and willing to take on tough challenges. I was what I could call...an emotionally very stable person.

Then life got hard. Then it got harder. And then it got even harder. When Colton was first diagnosed with Autism a couple months ago I would ask, "will I ever be happy again?" I wasn't sure.

So, am I happy now? YES. Yes, I am.
So, does the Autism still hurt? YES. Yes, it hurts bad. Every day. Every day I'm faced with this reality like a freight truck coming right at me.

About 1 out of every 5 days, my fear gets the best of me. And here is what it says:
1. You aren't doing enough, if you were doing more...he would improve more
2. You aren't doing the right things, you should be saying it THIS way to him, or getting him to make eye contact by doing THIS.
3. Your therapies aren't going to work
4. Colton is never going to be able to make friends
5. Kids are going to pick on Colton at school
6. Colton won't be able to have any meaningful relationships outside of me and Mike
7. I'm going to run out of energy and strength and not be able to give Colton all he needs.
8. Maybe he won't ever go to college, or get married, or live on his own.
9. How am I supposed to have more kids? What if they, too, have Autism? What if Colton hates me having a baby?

THEN, my faith kicks in...and I actually HEAR these words in my head. Repeating over and over.
1. Colton is going to be fine. You are going to be fine. Your family is going to be fine.
2. Colton is going to talk again (which already is happening)
3. Your therapies are going to make a huge difference
4. Colton has SO so many great things going for him...see his sense of humor, his smile, his talking, his eyes, he's taking in everything, he's a smart boy.
5. Colton has had friends before, he will be able to make friends again one day.
6. Colton's possibilities are limitless. Keep pushing, keeping pushing.
7. Yes, it will take 100 times more effort, but the effort will get him there. And you will be SO proud of every accomplishment along the way.
8. We can have a happy family.

Yesterday...fear won...today it's a tie...tomorrow...I'm sure I'll be back to faith for another 5 days. And on and on I will go up up up down and then back up again.

But, I WILL get back up. and I WILL have faith. I have to.

(PS don't feel like you have to comment...I'm really not fishing for compliments...more just informing people of the emotions I'm sorting through. I recognize these emotions are not unique to me and that others battle many challenges too. I admire so many people for the things they've gone through and am more aware now, more than ever, of the strength I see in those around me.)

GeOOOOORGE!

2011-08-09T15:43:00.004-06:00

Colton has been cracking me up lately with the things he's picking up. Recently, he has been using lines from his Curious George show to talk to me.

Here are a few favorites:

While running down our hallway, "Geeeeoooooorrrggge! Hey!"

While pulling a wagon,"Here goes nuttin'!"

While holding a train track like a camera, "say cheese!...HEY!"

When walking into a messy doctor's office, "What happened in here? What a mess."

While at the zoo, "I see monkey. George monkey. A doctor monkey!"

While watching me get ready, "What are you doing in there?"

While playing outside, "Don't be too curious! Be careful!"

PS don't you love Colton's sandal tan?

(Note: for those of you wondering "wait, Colton is talking...does he still have Autism?" Here is my answer: Yes he is talking more, and yes he has Autism. His speech has gradually been coming back, but it's noticeable now that he is simply memorizing things and not speaking conversationally (autism problem, it's called echolalia). He still DEFINITELY has Autism, and is verbal...but will need to learn how to communicate better still. Speech is only a part of communication and although he can put together words in a sentence, he lacks the other aspects of communication like directing language at someone, involving others, uniquely coming up with sentences, eye contact etc. It isn't so noticeable when they are 2, but as they get closer to 3 then 4 years old etc. the gap becomes pretty noticeable. It's noticeable now if you watch him in nursery or with other kids his age. But BOY are we CRAZY grateful his language has come back. EVERY word he speaks I love and appreciate! :)

A closer look

2011-07-30T11:01:00.004-06:00

We are settling into Columbus and some of our new routines. Columbus is beautiful... we regularly take walks, visit the waterfall right by our house, or go on river walks. We enjoy playgroups, eating at Chipotle and Einstein Bagels, and looking for squirrels. From the outside looking in, things might just look totally normal...Mike and Colton running around playing a game, or me and Colton reading books together.

But, if you look closer...you see a calendar filled with appointments, therapists, interviews and planning meetings. You'd see paperwork, medical bills, and time sheets for managing employees. You'd find business cards, and sticky notes, and piles of papers waiting to be filed.

Colton's schedule has gone from nothing all week, to 5 hours a day of appointments and it's only going to get more. You'd see a mom who works tirelessly every moment thinking of ways to help her son. Every car ride is filled with me trying to get Colton to talk, to use his words, or to notice his surroundings. Every look out the window is filled with me asking questions to get his mind thinking conversationally, coming up with stories to help him think in the abstract, or repeating phrases over and over again to help him gain the language. I have to follow through on everything I ask him to do, even when it makes him mad. I need to remain completely calm in all tantrum situations. It's like I'm in a game of chess, contstantly planning what I should say, how I should respond, or how I should act...because everything I do helps reinforce what he is learning in therapy... or unravels his therapy.

But, I'm SO happy to be making progress. And, I'm so proud of Colton. He is being so brave handling all these new people, new situations, and new demands. I'm excited for what the future will bring for him. He has a lot of potential. It is a lot of work...but I know where it can get us. And we WILL get there.

But, BOY, do I love this kid. Just look at this face...

Columbus Update

2011-06-29T12:14:00.004-06:00

Well, we made it to Ohio a week and a half ago, have moved into our little house, and are waiting on our truck to arrive with all our belongings. Hopefully it will come in 2 weeks (but it's already a week late, so WHO knows).

Columbus is gorgeous! I love it. We have a river a mile from our house, a zoo, a neighborhood with sidewalks, a playground in the backyard...it's great! Our house is super cute, thanks to my parents to came up and did all sorts of work on it. Colton loves Columbus too. He likes going for walks outside, picking bark off trees, and swinging on his swing. So, he is doing well all things considered.

In the week and a half we've been here, we've already had 5 interviews/ meetings for Colton's therapies, 2 Occupational Therapy appointments, and another 3 meetings in the next week to get him rolling in the other therapies.

As for me?...well, I'm just trying learn how exactly to be me and handle all our changes. Do I tell people, or do I wait? Do I act positive and upbeat so people don't feel bad for me, or do I really let them know what I'm going through so they can support me? Do I want to make my life "Autism" or do I want to show a balance so I can have friends? No one wants to be friends with someone who is always whining and only talks about their own kids problems. How do I find that balance of being caring, giving, friendly, while helping others know the REAL me of what I'm struggling with. How do I relate to others? Being a mom gives you an automatic ability to relate to other mothers...but for me, I have different struggles/battles/ worries/ fears...it alienates me naturally and makes me feel lonely. How do I not feel lonely? I feel myself just wanting to withdrawl from everything...facebook...blogging...all of it because all I can think to post about is Colton, and don't want to push people away. Do I just join Autism support groups? How will Colton do with all the therapy? How much will he cry in protest? How much of that can I handle? How am I going to do implementing his therapies 100% of the time? Will I have the strength? How much is he going to improve? Will he start talking again? Well he ever relate to anyone other than close family? Will he ever have friends again? So many questions...

Overall, I'm optimistic about the future. I feel Columbus is the place for us for progress for Mike, me and Colton. But, in being honest, it's really hard trying to figure it all out and figure out the new "me" because Colton does change that now. I live IN this world, but I also have my own little Autism world which sets be apart and makes me have to see the world differently in order to understand Colton.

Okay, enough rambling for now!

(I kinda look prego from this angle, I assure you I am not)

Our house

The last 24 hours

2011-06-13T21:37:00.005-06:00

I have 24 hours left in this house. Nothing brings on more emotions than moving. Moving is one of those experiences that forces you to reflect on your life. Every time I move, every move resurfaces and I find myself segmenting my life into all the different moves: moving to college, moving to my first apt with Mike, moving to Vegas, moving into our first home...

I remember the feelings of all my hopes and expectations, close that chapter and reflect, and look forward to the next chapter. This move is especially hard.

Allow me to recount the story of this house:

Mike and I moved into this house 3 1/2 years ago. It was our first home. We picked out every little detail and watched the whole building process. Mike and I would drive up 2 times a week just to walk through our concrete slab and imagine just were everything would go. "Here is where we will have our first baby's room"..."he will love this backyard...especially this hill, I bet he'll run up and down this hill," "we'll set up his toys right here!"

Finally, moved in and were as excited as could be. A few months later we found out we were expecting. We used to sit in Colton's future room and just dream up everything that he would be. I would picture rocking to him, watching him in his crib, playing with him.

In Feb of 2009 Colton was born. We were so in love. Colton filled our home with immense love and we became a little family. This house saw it all, baby Colton, the non-crawling Colton, the walking and talking Colton, the stressful mom, the laughs, the tears the joy and the love.

Colton was our dream come true. Just as we dreamed, Colton would run up and down the back hill, I would rock him in his chair...we lived and loved in every corner of this house.

Now here we are almost 2 1/2 years later. We've been through a LOT a lot. A lot has changed. I've spent recent nights at the side of Colton's crib, crying, confused, scared, just looking at his perfect sleeping face. How did this happen to us? Why can't everything just go back to the way it was? But with those sleepless nights have come peace and hope. My hopes and dreams for Colton have been put on a different path. It's a different adventure than what I had dreamed up for the past 3 1/2 years. But, we are leaving this house a stronger family. I have a stronger love for Mike. I have a stronger love for Colton.

He still IS my dream come true. He still is the light of my life and my whole world.

BOY oh boy oh boy how my heart aches for this kid. I hope that in a few years when I'm reflecting back on this next house, it'll be memories of increased understanding for how Colton works, progress, progress, and progress, increased faith in the Lord, a stronger testimony of the Savior, and a deeper appreciation and love for Mike.

Life is a funny thing. So slow, yet so quick. Nothing like you expected, but worse and better at the same time. So, Ohio....

READY or not, here we come!

Ohio and haircuts

2011-05-31T21:47:00.004-06:00

In case you haven't heard yet, Mike got accepted to grad school at Ohio State University for the fall. He's getting his masters in healthcare management. Mike is a smarty pants and got the top scholarship! Way to go Mike! We were going to move in September but...

...we decided to just pick up and go to Ohio NOW so that we could get started on therapies for Colton. So, in 2 1/2 weeks we will be in Ohio. Crazy! I'm scared, sad, hopeful and excited. Hopefully within a few weeks of living in Ohio we will be settling into our new routine of:

-2 hours of week of Occupational therapy

-2 hours of week of Speech Therapy

-2 hours a week of Physical Therapy

-25-35 hours a week (5 to 7 hours a day in our home) of ABA (Behavioral Therapy)

I'm ready to get going!

And on another note. I gave Colton a haircut tonight. I was NOT okay with his mullet, and wanted him to look nice and put together for all the new people in Ohio we are going to meet. Haircuts are near impossible with Colton, but I was happy with the outcome. I love my handsome boy!

Needed Message

2011-05-19T14:10:00.002-06:00

Maybe I'll just keep playing this over and over to ingrain these words in my heart. I know they are true. Sometimes I just have a hard time remembering them right now.

"Don't you quit. You keep walking. You keep trying. There is help, and happiness ahead. Some blessings come soon. Some come late. And some don't come till heaven. But for those who embrace the Gospel of Jesus Christ, they come. It will be alright in the end. Trust God, and believe in good things to come."

-Jeffrey R. Holland, Apostle of Jesus Christ

Quick Update

2011-05-19T13:43:00.003-06:00

Well, it's been a week and a half since finding out that Colton has regressive Autism (not the classic Autism, but still on the Autism spectrum) and Sensory Processing Disorder. The overwhelming devastation and grief at first, transferred to then anger and sadness, then disappointment and acceptance, then hope and then I cycle all back through it again on a daily basis.

My mind has been working non stop. NON stop. I'm constantly on the phone calling people, setting up appointments, reading, and trying to figure out our future with what was already tricky with a move to Columbus for Mike to go to grad school and getting rid of our house. Throw this on top of it and life pretty much doesn't stop or my mind.

Autism is tricky because there are a million different opinions of why, therapies to use, and results shown. And every kid in the autism spectrum is entirely different. Kids do anything ranging from a few hours a week of therapy to 40 plus hours. 4o hours? You think I'm joking, I'm not...and we very likely could go that route.

No pressure Ang, it's only your child's entire future on your head. and EVERY decision I made directly impacts his future. If I don't teach him or get someone to HELP teach him things, he will NOT learn them. These things are simple things that most kids pick up...things like, looking at someone when they talk to you, paying attention to what people are doing around you rather than the grass, giving hugs to those you love. All moms need hugs and kisses and smiles. I'm parenting a difficult child withOUT any of those positive reinforcements.

I'm sure there are books out there, but pretty much my book would be titled "Being the mom of an autistic child: the hardest and loneliest job.

If only I could get some hugs from him, it'd keep me going stronger...but I'll just have to settle for me hugging him and having him push off. Sigh.

Sorry for the negative post, maybe I'll post one later today when I'm feeling more hopeful...since I'm always cycling like that.

(oh and Colton has regained some of his language, but mostly still doesn't talk and I can't understand him. At least it's better than last week where we had nothing. This is coming from a kid who was completely talking in sentences a couple months ago).

Prayers Please

2011-05-11T22:10:00.000-06:00

I'm in a nightmare that keeps getting worse... My dear Colton has significantly regressed within the past few weeks and now is not able to speak/show social interaction almost whatsoever, and just hops and runs everywhere. He's 2, and 3 weeks ago was talking in sentences, running around like buzz, and giving me hugs like a normal 2 year old. Most likely regressive Autism/Sensory Integrative Disorder.

I feel like I can't breathe and am broken. This is going to be a long road. Prayers would be appreciated.

Design

2011-04-25T09:55:00.011-06:00

Recently I've really REALLY gotten into home design. Life has had a few changes and stresses (don't worry we are fine), and design has become my outlet. I could spend hours and hours at looking at websites, magazines, etsy...I love it. If only I had thousands and thousands of dollars to spend per room :)

Here are a few of my favorite things and places:

West Elm furniture and bedding

Urban Outfitters

How cute would this little shelf be in a baby girls nursery? (No, I'm not pregnant...)

Restoration Hardware

This is my inspiration for Colton's future bedding

Etsy, fabric.com

Love this for a print for Colton's future room

A chalkboard map. Love it for Colton's future room.

I'm thinking of grey, white, navy, and this green for Colton's future room...not sure, but I think I like it

Blogs: 6th Street Design School, Apartment Therapy

What are some of your favorite places to look? I'm open for any suggestions to further feed my design addiciton :)

Bribery.

2011-04-05T13:31:00.005-06:00

If you are a perfect mom...you've probably never had to use the persuasive technique of BRIBERY on your children. Good for you :) I, however, have...and I love it. Allow me to explain.

For months and months, going out was so difficult. SO so so difficult. Tantrum with the diaper change. Tantrum with the socks. Tantrum with the shoes. Tantrum going to the garage. Tantrum, flailing, back arching getting into the car seat. By the time I had Colton buckled in, I'd be in a FULL blown sweat and my heart would be pounding from me trying to keep in my frustration.

Here is where we meet the wonderful technique of bribery. I had already tried toys, food, letting Colton do it on his own, wait for when he's ready...all of it. So, I caved. In a moment of weakness I said, "I'll give you an m&m if you sit on the stairs while mommy gets you ready." In an instant the crying stopped, and he sat perfectly on the step. "I'll give you an m&m if you get in the car!" In an instant he would stop running in circles and get in the car. Nothing short of a miracle.

So here we are 3 months later and I'm happy to report, I still use m&ms (just 1 or 2) to get out of the house. My life is SO much better. I don't use m&ms for anything else, just this.

Judge if you will. But I love the power of those beautifully colored chocolate candies. Thank you m&ms.

Ready!

2011-04-03T22:54:00.017-06:00

We are ready for Easter! Today we busted out our 3 Easter decorations...a mini bunny, table runner, and wind-up chick. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- And then, Colton embraced Easter by using multiple Easter decorations at the same time! Colton first laid out his bunny container for a bed, then put his little wind-up chick to sleep in the container....and then to provide comfort....placed a napkin blanket on top of the wind-up chick. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To further help the wind-up chick fall asleep, Colton stroked its head and said "good night chick, go to sleep." Cute. Sweet. and a little creepy. Seriously, look at the eyes on that little chick! Right? We are READY for Easter! and somebody PLEASE help me with some cute Easter decorations/craft ideas. We are struggling here.

I am aware.

2011-03-23T22:59:00.005-06:00

I am aware that I have been severely lacking in the blogging category. Lame. So, what has been occupying my time you might ask? The day to day little stuff...spiced up with some fun stuff! (no, I'm not making a prego announcement yet. Patience my friends)

Day to day stuff: if you were to be a fly on the wall in my house, you would see...

-Colton and me flying around the house with arms outstretched yelling "To infinity and beyond!" Colton sometimes even enhances it with scenes from Toy Story such as "I can't fly...oh no...no fly! Crash" or "howdy partner!" or reenacting the Buzz Woody fight scene by going at my face.

-Colton bossing us around. Telling us where to go, how to get there, and what we should be doing. He recently criticized my shoe purchase, "No mom, take off those shoes. Yucky!"

-Colton making sure HE is the one getting the attention. If Mike and I hug, Colton is in between us in SECOND telling us, "No, do not hug dad. Hug Colton." He is pretty confident we are all on this world to just serve him :)

-Colton figuring out and getting frustrated. We build a lot. We build legos. We build trains. We build blocks. He's very good at it. I love building, but it's scary because sometimes things don't go the way Colton wants and he gets really mad. He'll be sweetly playing with his trains and then all of a sudden...destroying the track, crying, and throwing his trains "No, no! Thomas is NOT going with the coal!" Terrible twos much?

-Colton being sooo cool. Cool dances moves? Check. Cool buzz and woody mini toy sidekicks? Check. Cool sunglasses? Check. Ability to put sunglasses on almost right? Check.

-Colton STILL being Colton. Do you guys remember that 12 month old child that didn't roll over? Well, there are still elements of that Colton. He has a very hard time with stairs. He often turns around to go down on his tummy with a 3 in step. We're working on it. He also refuses to feed himself. I seriously sit there and feed him all his meals with a fork while he sits with his mouth open like a baby. Every time I try to get him to do it he says, "No. Mommy do it!" (there is a reason I'm not even CONSIDERING potty training this child until he is 3)

-Colton cheering on BYU basketball! Yesterday I got a Jimmer shirt from my bro and his gf and Colton looked at it "BYU Cougars! Go cougars!" I've trained him well :) Too bad he refuses to shoot a basketball and will ONLY lay it in. I've tried everything. This is slightly offensive to his daddy who loves the threes.

...imagining...refusing food that days earlier he loved...hugs...face slaps (Colton giving them, don't worry, NOT me haha)...refusing naps...laughing...talking talking talking...jumping everywhere...throwing fits...reading books...singing songs...you guys know the drill...

and I love it. Sure, I'm exhausted and he's a tricky toddler...but I could squeeze that boy all day long. I keep thinking I'll get used to his cuteness, but I never do.

AND BYU Cougars rock my world. Thank you for improving the mood in our home by 100 times and giving us our most favorite March ever.

Success.

2011-02-27T22:28:00.009-07:00

Colton's 2nd birthday party was a big success. It started off with a little happy birthday singing and jumping...

Disclaimer: Yes, it is true that in all my child's bday pictures he has NO shorts. dang. YOU try and put shorts on him, and you'd understand why :) He IS 2 afterall :)

Then moved onto the decorations...(complete with Colton banner)

and friends... (Ryan, you are the best!)

and yummy cake... (Colton picked out the Alien candle himself!)

(okay I love this picture, PLEASE take note of the 12 Thomas the Engine stickers that Colton put on his shirt. He's awesome.)

and presents...(OKAY please PEOPLE, tell me you remember this Fisher Price record toy? It was one of my favs as a kid. Well, Target now has this vintage toy section, and when I spotted this...I just HAD to have it. Smart Target. Very smart.)

Great day. Great boy.

2 years ago...

2011-02-25T15:44:00.004-07:00

Two years ago today, Colton was born. What a little stranger he was to me. I knew nothing about him and had no idea how to take care of him. I remember that first night in the hospital...I was sleeping...I remember hearing a noise and thinking, "what in the world is that?" Once I fully woke up, I realized it was MY baby, crying. I was terrified. "What in the world am I supposed to do with a crying baby? That's MY crying baby."

It's interesting to think of this little stranger. Now, 2 years later...I know every little thing about him. I know exactly where his freckles are. I know what reaction he is going to give in any given situation. I know his strengths, his tendencies, his fears. Mike put it well the other day, "it's like you two are a little married couple." We have our little routine, stick to it, and love it. He comes to me for comfort, I come to him for snuggles.

He's the best little buddy. I would choose him out of anything in the world. Happy 2nd birthday to my best little friend. We love you Colton!

CAUTION

2011-02-21T21:53:00.008-07:00

*"Be careful, guy!" yelled Colton up to the man repelling down the rock.* (story continued later)

If I had to describe Colton in a few words, one of them would certainly be cautious. I've watched him take 2 mins to climb down a step at the park. He stops. He analyzes it. He places his hands on a pole...and slloooowwwllyy steps down. I've been known to give him a little push down a slide to finally make him go down. I've seen him stop at a 2 in ramp, get on his tummy, and back down over the 2 in ramp. Colton has never let anyone just randomly hold him besides me and Mike. It took us 7 months to get him to go on his own to nursery.

Don't get me wrong, there are some real benefits to a cautious child...

He will NEVER walk off with a stranger or run away
He plays on the playground exactly how he's supposed to and doesn't try anything crazy
He stays close by my side
He is a mama's boy
He thinks through things before he does them
He's a rather calm child and does a lot of building and playing rather than sprinting and dumping toys

.......

Okay, done with that random analyzing...Now onto the story from today! We went hiking at Red Rock. Just the sight of the big rocks make Colton shake and hold on to me while saying "hold you! hold you!" I eventually got him to step foot on the ground, but he only would when it was the dirt...NOT the rocks. Then...he eventually started walking around...then crawling on the rocks...then walking on the rocks while holding my hand...then walking all by himself. I was so proud of him!

I'm sure the people around us were chuckling at Mike and me praising "Colton, way to go bud! You are walking...on a rock! We are so proud of you!"

I love my cute, cautious, little buddy.

Love.

2011-02-12T14:24:00.004-07:00

In celebration of the upcoming Love Day, I've been feeling a little crafty. So, while visiting Houston, my MIL and I made these adorable wreaths (my MIL is the best!). And the best part is, it was around $7, and I can switch out the middle and use it for the 4th and Christmas too! (burlap cut up and tied around a straw wreath)

Since I'm into NOT spending any money right now, I also made this cute "I love you" sign with scrapbook paper. Not the most original idea, but for $2, it's perfect. Colton even noticed it and now says "mommy loves daddy Colton" every time he sees it.

Since we are talking about Love, I have to mention the 2 loves of my life. My husband Mike, and my little man Colton. These boys bring me so much joy. Mike is world's best husband and dad...doing dishes...cleaning...helping with Colton...changing diapers...you name it he does it, all without asking. Colton is the man. He cracks me up and his cheeks are just impossible NOT to kiss. I am very lucky.

Below is Colton's lego creation. He's into matching colors these days.

Below is Colton with friend Ryan at the Mandalay Bay Shark Reef. Colton did not believe me that the glass would keep the sharks away, so he enjoyed the view from 20 feet away on these boxes.

Below Colton enjoys the Vegas snow. After about 2 mins he was so soaked that we just went inside. Take note how the snow sticks better to the fake turf over other surfaces. Hooray for fake grass!

I want one.

2011-01-29T21:42:00.004-07:00

I heart this table. I heart this table SOOO much. It's from Restoration Hardware and it crazy expensive, as in almost $3,000.

Seriously, isn't the salvaged wood so rustic and amazing. I love it.

My favorite website ana-white.com has plans for this table below...not bad right? And it probably only costs about $50 in lumber, maybe $100 overall. And with my budget right now of nothing, that's definitely a little closer than $3,000.

Should I...or should I not make this table? (actual built tables from ana white plans)

Pride

2011-01-26T22:27:00.006-07:00

I have BYU pride. I love BYU. I love the school. I love BYU sports. and if you know me...you know that I love BYU basketball.

...like...I love it so much that I cried last year during the NCAA tournament game of BYU vs. Florida (and I never cry).

...like...my blood boils and heart races when someone disses byu.

...like...I danced and ran around my room like a fool tonight during byu's AMAZING win vs. San Diego State.

People say I take BYU basketball too personally. Well, my friends, you would too if your husband played all four years and your uncle were the head coach for the past 6 years. BYU basketball=Rose family.

I'm lovin' it. WAY TO GO COUGS.

Robot

2011-01-09T22:54:00.003-07:00

Colton has turned into a little robot recently. More specifically, Colton has turned into a little Goofy robot named "Mr. Goofbot" (from his fav Mickey Mouse Clubhouse).

If you come around our house at practically any time of any day, this is pretty much what you'll see. He's a little obsessed. But it's a cute obsession, so I encourage it.

Digging Out

2011-01-04T21:53:00.002-07:00

(Colton pictured above in a woody hat with cousin and buddy Aaron in the background)

Christmas vacation was wonderful. Viginia was beautiful as always and family is the best. I ate lots and LOTS of food. I held my sisters baby for the first time. We gots lots of presents. I stayed up way too late and didn't change out of my PJs for a majority of the trip. It was glorious.

...and now we are back home in Vegas. I feel like my house has exploded. Boxes for Christmas decorations, halfway unpacked suitcases, and new toys that haven't yet found a home.

So far I'm on day 2 of my post-vacation recuperation...and I think I need another 5 days until I'm above water.

Sigh. 2011 here we come!

jealous

2010-12-09T16:05:00.003-07:00

I know you all are jealous...because you wish you had THIS little elf helping around your house this Christmas season. Yeah, he's pretty cute.

Complete with polar bear PJ bottoms. Awesome.

not quite Colton....almost

you're gettin there bud...

Hooray for Christmas and little helpers!

Happy

2010-11-18T14:34:00.008-07:00

This is what makes me happy today: (Yes, I did it already. I decorated for Christmas.)

---------

Stockings and Christmas trees pictured above). I made our stockings last year. Love them. I also love my new lime green and white ornaments and added to our tree this year.

Mini snow globes. I am obsessed with miniature things. My MIL gave me these and I love them. Santa, teddy bear AND snowman. Amazingly cute.

Clay nativity I made in elementary school. Do you see the mini nativity in the attic? Yeah, I made that too...it's mini, and I love it. (My mom put all the figures in this cool wooden house a few years ago. Thanks mom!)December calendar. Me and my friend Brooke made these last year. I spent time doing each magnet number, and I love each unique one.

Nativity. Although I'm still missing the wisemen, I'm positive this is the most gorgeous nativity set out there.

Mini Santa clothes. (are you sensing a "mini" theme here?) Umm...mini Santa, Mrs. Claus, and elf clothes hung by clothes pins. Does life get better than that? No, no it doesn't.

and as always...my boy Colton and bigger boy Mike. Here is Colton pictured mixing up something. We give him whatever we find and have him mix it to keep him entertained. I believe this has sprinkles, water, peanuts, crackers, and cheese. Yumm....

So, that it what makes me happy today :)

Awesome.

2010-11-08T00:05:00.002-07:00

I love my boys. Mike and Colton regularly like to jam it out to the keyboard in the guest room. Colton has become a pro at copying Mike's dance moves.

Highlight moves in this video include:
-swaying
-clap and slow graceful clap
-head nod
-the N Sync finger crowd point
-graceful hand cupping

Mike's disclaimer: Mike says he is normally a better dancer but had to dumb down the moves for Colton to keep up.

Before and After

2010-11-01T21:57:00.005-06:00

Over the past year I have been gradually redoing my bedroom. Last week when my mom came in town, we found this amazing deal on nice fabric ($2.50 a yard!) and made some curtains. Now my bedroom is basically done, besides a few finishing touches. I love the way it looks!

BEFORE:

Here is a list of the improvements made over the past year (super affordable):

-New headboard, made by me

-New dresser/nightstand

-New comforter

-New curtains, made by me and mom

AFTER:

...and no, I do not intend to keep a little giraffe and teddy bear stuffed animal on my little ladder stand :)

It's a bird...

2010-10-29T13:26:00.004-06:00

It's a plane...It's SUPERMAN! and...it's the cutest, coolest little superman ever, I'm convinced. Sorry if you child was also superman, because Colton looked more awesome than your kid :). (joking of course)

I decided to make him a cape and keep the rest normal because I knew he wouldn't tolerate a costume. Good call on my part because it all worked out perfectly and he kept the costume on the whole night. (I'm superwoman, mike is a dice, and my mom is just super festively dressed. More on "my awesome mom came to visit us" week in a later post.)

I'm so proud of my cape! Here is an up close of what I made, and all for $6! Shiny blue fabric, red fabric, some good scissor work with red and yellow felt, iron on, and sewing

Working Hard

2010-10-20T22:06:00.003-06:00

It was daddy's birthday on Monday, so I helped Colton make a little something for him: a car painted by Colton. I wasn't sure how he'd do, but I was very impressed!

Colton was very focused...

He carefully picked out each color and would proclaim "LLELLOW! BLEWW!" while picking out the colors...

He even made sure to paint inside of the hole...

he would say "other one"when he was ready to switch paint brushes

I think it was the perfect present :)

Fishy Face

2010-10-15T14:19:00.002-06:00

Umm....Mike taught Colton a new trick and it is probably my most favorite trick yet: the FISHY FACE. I probably love it so much because he always tries to keep himself from smiling or laughing while he is doing it. Colton, you are one cool kid and mommy's best buddy--love you!

Enjoy :)

(we sing Old MacDonald allllll day long, any favorite creative animal/sound suggestions are welcome)

just potatoes?

2010-10-06T22:02:00.005-06:00

My sister just moved to BOISE...and I have to say, I LOVE it. Sidewalks, front yards, back yards, beautiful weather, college town, city, farm, affordable houses...and best of all my sister and her kids!

You wouldn't guess it by Colton's facial expressions in these pictures, but he had a great time and loved hanging out with cousins.

**Oh for Colton to have a cousin within 10 hours driving distance. Sigh**

We start....OUTSIDE. Weather in Boise is like Provo but with a milder winter. 4 seasons! Sounds pretty great? Yeah, I think so too! then we go...INSIDE. I love my sister's new house. It's my dream house complete with giant play room, wood floors, high ceilings, granite countertops, and my favorite people!then we DRIVE around (or do a 10 mile run Sat morning-I'm training for a half marathon) a bit...farms, but also lots of neighborhoods, city, BSU, malls close by, and a zoo!

and yes, aren't my nieces and nephews the cutest?

So, I hope I changed your view of Boise, Idaho...I'm sold!

Girls

2010-09-19T22:20:00.003-06:00

What happens to your little boy when you babysit 3 extra girls the whole week? You learn how to push a stroller, play dress up, use a fake microwave, and brush hair. You also learn how to scream, pull dresses and kick. Yes, we are tired. No, Colton is not ready for a little sister yet!

keeping busy

2010-09-12T21:15:00.005-06:00

I'm too lazy to think of a witty or creative post, so I'll just tell you what we've been up to. We sure lived it up for the last few weeks of summer! Colton has been a blast now that ALL 4 MOLARS are in. It may have taken us all summer, but he did it. He also says evvveeerrryyyything and talks in sentences. My favorite is when Colton was asked by his grammy:
"Colton, you are so cute. Did you know that."
To which he responded with: "I know that."
haha. Cute kid.

Newport Beach to visit great grandma Farrell. Colton loved Newport, but how can you NOT when you are staying at a house on the bay and a mile from the ocean? Colton wasn't so sure about the sand, but did love the bir-days (birds). He also loved great grandma!

PROVO Utah surprise trip to visit Mike's mom for her 50th! The surprise was perfect! We enjoyed spending time with family, skateboarding, and sitting in box seats (thanks Roses!) for the BYU football game.

Lazy days...we also have enjoyed lounging while watching some good 'ol Baby Einstein. I don't know what I would do w/o that show! It's my only 30 mins a day when I can get something done :)

Being crafty. I've been in a "doing" mood recently. Here is one of my fun projects I put together one afternoon: a wipe/diaper case with yellow lining. Cute right?

RUNNNNNING. I'm training for a half marathon in Nov in St. George. So I spend a lot of time running. I love it though. I did my 8 mile run on Sat and felt pretty good. It's a cool feeling to run further than you ever have before!

and that's it!

So...

2010-08-19T21:52:00.002-06:00

...I felt bad about my post last week bashing my wonderful, although whiny, child. So, this week I am posting just darling things of my child. He really is quite hysterical these days with all the things he can do.

His dancing is a favorite of mine, and here is a video of it (you really don't need to watch all of it). He makes me take out a blanket of dogs so he can dance on that. He also does this awesome arms up and down thing to make his stomping, or dancing, even MORE advanced.

The golf swing. Colton has been known to hold anything long and skinny like pencils, magnadoodle pens, straws... and IMMEDIATELY do a golf swing with them. Here is his swing in action. Uhhhh don't mind the whining at the end, that's just proof I don't make it all up :)

Songs and books. The kid could read books all day with me and sing songs. One of the favs is 5 little monkeys. He is GREAT with the hand motions...you've gotta watch it. Pretty sure my child is the most talented 17 mo and 3 week old out there :)

See, so Colton is SUPER cute too :) and I do love love LOVE him to pieces.

Full Blown

2010-08-13T14:05:00.005-06:00

(please allow me to have a momentary vent, I don't feel like being my normal positive and upbeat self right now)
We have entered the full blown terrible twos (yes, I know my child is only 18 mos). By 9:30 am this morning I was already completely exhausted and at my wits end...and I only have ONE child! I know ever other mom is in the same boat as me, but it doesn't make it any less frustrating.

We are going to play a little game of I spy to better understand how our morning has gone.

I spy a cute little boy who got a hair cut this morning at a friend's house and screamed until he almost threw up and thrashed his body the whole time. It took me, my friends husband holding him still, and my friend cutting his hair. Yes we tried suckers, movies, all of it.

(family room)
I spy a phone that Colton threw at mommy's head, legos (in the basket) that were thrown at everything. They are now sitting in timeout.
I spy the room where a diaper was changed while Colton was standing up running around the room. This is typical for every diaper change of every day.

(stairs)
I spy Colton who sat in time out about 8 times today already.
(bath)
I spy the bathtub that Colton stood in, kicked in, and screamed in while I spent a whole 30 seconds trying to rinse off the hair from his haircut. He has fought us on baths the past 2 weeks now.
(kitchen)

I spy the chair Colton stood on and proceeded to shake until I finally didn't allow him to sit on it anymore.
I spy the can of pear juice Colton spilled on the floor...and THEN slipped in and hit his head (red towel shown to wipe up spill).
I spy raisins that Colton poured on the floor along with countless food items that were each individually thrown and followed with him saying "no no throw food..."

not pictured...I spy a little boy sleeping in his crib 30 mins before naptime because mommy simply cannot handle him anymore. And yes, he screamed his way up to his crib.

Sleep dear Colton. Take a looonnnggg nap. Mommy loves you but doesn't want to see you for a few hours.

Updates

2010-08-06T23:51:00.006-06:00

Life has just been the regular around here. Colton is almost 18 months old and so fun but ALSO now into the full blown toddler/tantrum/terrible twos stage (why do they call it terrible twos if my child started it at 15 months?)

He is as cute as ever, and as opinionated and stubborn as ever...but what did I expect, he IS my son :) He has started talking in sentences (his most fav being "I want dada"), can fold his arms for prayers, locate temples in pictures, give high fives, run, give me kisses which turn into face slaps, and sit in time out while shaking his hand and saying "no no throw legos". haha. Love this kid.

Here's what we've been up to...

Trying to stay cool in the Vegas summer heat...

Falling and running into things all the time causing awesome goose eggs!

teething a BA-ZILLION molars...causing mommy and daddy to pull out ALL the stops (YES, that is Colton in a Cozy Coupe Car, while watching Baby Einstein, with a basketball hoop and ball, AND his puppy on the roof. TEETHING IS ROUGH. If anyone wants to ask me what it's like to hold a 30 lb child all day long, go ahead :)

Hanging out with friends (Ryan), still drinking a bottle -- don't judge me...we still use it a couple times a day for milk -- , and traveling everywhere with his puppy
And that's our life right now. Probably pretty similar to yours too!

Super bummed.

2010-08-02T15:35:00.003-06:00

So, I made some cute ladder nightstands last week while Mike was out of town that totally matched my bed headboard. Same stain, style, solid wood and everything. They were PERFECT...

...or so I thought until I put them in my room. They were miniature! Super tiny. The scale is all off. Apparently they are for a kid bedroom. Ugh. I guess the link to a pottery barn kids room with the ladder nightstand should've been a giveaway. Dumb. (You can't even see the poor nightstand on the left side of the bed because it's too small! haha)

All that time and money wasted. I guess I'll be posting these on craigslist later today as nightstand / flower pot stand / ladder for SALE.

LAME. I'm mad. But it IS also a little funny.

And now I still have to come up with nightstands!

*anyone know how I can get rid of those annoying Chinese symbol comments I keep getting? I added the word type in but it still hasn't helped.

Flying: A Series of Unfortunate Events

2010-07-18T16:27:00.007-06:00

(picture of Colton in hotel broom further explained below)

How difficult could it be, you ask, to simply fly home from Wash DC to Las Vegas with no weather problems, no holiday travels, no plane delays, and one perfectly timed 1 1/2 layover in Dallas?

Very. very. difficult.

It all started when we boarded our plane in Dallas at 3:00 pm to then fly home to Vegas. Colton had been a champ on the first flight, and I had the second flight timed perfectly for him to fall asleep as we were taking off. Only problem is, we wouldn't be taking off...not for one hour...not 2 or 3 or 4...but and entire DAY later.

Here is the timeline of events (let's not forget that this whole travel experience was WITH a 17 mo old):

FLIGHT ATTEMPT #1

3:00 pm board airplane

3:15 pm depart gate

3:30 pm informed from pilot that a display monitor isn't working and we have to go back to gate

NOTE: it is 104 outside, with no AC on the plane and Colton starts to go ballISTIC and falls asleep

3:45 pm informed there are no available gates and we'll have to wait

4:00 pm deplane, wake up Colton, and we are told to wait as they fix the problem

5:30 pm we are told they are replacing the part and we'll board again in the next hour

FLIGHT ATTEMPT #2

6:30 pm we are assured problem is fixed and AGAIN board the airplane

6:45 pm depart gate

7:00 pm pilot tells us there is a long line of planes and it may take a while

7:15 pm pilot informs us (in total nonchalant voice) that ACTUALLY they were experiencing the same monitor problem and the part that was replaced actually wasn't what they needed...

NOTE: it is still 104 with no AC and Colton AGAIN FREAKS out screaming uncontrollably

7:30 pm we are informed AGAIN there are no available gates open and we'd have to wait

7:45 pm deplane and join other yelling customers at ticket counter, while they AGAIN try to fix the plane

8:00 pm cops arrive to protect ticket counter ladies

8:20 pm our flight is officially cancelled and I wait in line to get tickets for next available flight...which is THE FOLLOWING MORNING (they also told us they couldn't get our bags and they'd send them out on one of 3 different flights....reeeaaaallll comforting)

9:00 pm we take our hotel vouchers, hop on a shuttle, and get to hotel

9:15 pm hotel doesn't have any cribs so Colton sleeps in a tub

---next day---

FLIGHT ATTEMPT #3

6:00 am catch shuttle to airport

6:30 am are informed at the end of security line that they didn't add the "plus infant" to our tickets, so Mike has to go back through the AA line and get him added

6:50 am we arrive at our gate A24 to find that no one is there. They gave us incorrect gate info

7:00 am we arrive at our CORRECT gate at C26 after taking a shuttle to the C terminal

7:30 am we finally take off from Dallas and make our way back home to Las Vegas...

I think I'm STILL recovering. I better be getting some free tickets out of this experience!

On a positive note: Colton is really good at making baskets with his stuffed animal puppy dog INTO the airport trash cans. Puppy needs a bath.

Where We've Been

2010-07-16T21:45:00.006-06:00

It's been a fun last couple of weeks visiting my fam in VA, mike's bro and fam in NJ, and a day trip to NYC.

Home Sweet Home: VIRGINIA

We got to see my family including a brother who is leaving on a mission in a month, great grandparents we hadn't seen in a year, GRANDPA we hadn't seen in a year, cousins we hadn't seen in a year...you get the idea...it's hard to see family when they live so far away! It was very much needed.

New Jersey

We got to spend some time with Mike's bro and family in New Jersey. It was so fun for Colton to hang with his cousins. We visited Princeton campus Sunday morning before church. Here are a couple pictures of us attempting to get all the boys together (in case you haven't heard--Roses only genetically produce boys, Mike only has brothers and we only have nephews on his side)

NYC!!!

Having lived only a few hours from NYC my whole life, I had actually NEVER been. Mike and I enjoyed a day in NYC while our amazing sis-in-law took care of Colton. We visited Times Square, 30 Rock, NBC Tour, Central Park, Staten Island Ferry, and more. Besides not being able to find a subway for 1 1/2 hours...it was a fun day!

Flying home, however, was a NIGHTMARE...WHY is Colton sleeping in a hotel tub you ask?....

STAY TUNED for the worst travel experience ever.

In Love

2010-06-30T23:24:00.006-06:00

I am in love with these family pictures we got done a few weeks ago! It was a little windy, so my hair is a little all over...but all in all I think these pictures turned out perfectly and really captured Colton's personality. Enjoy!

Project #2

2010-06-27T12:16:00.005-06:00

I just completed my second building project (from knock-offwood.com). I'm kinda obsessed with building these days.

Project #2: Toy Shelf for Colton's toys. I followed these plans (builds you 2 shelves for $60 in lumber).

STEP 1: Buy lumber from Home Depot

STEP 2: Get lumber cut at Home Depot

STEP 3: Build bookshelf with nail gun, wood glue

STEP 4: Fill nail holes and sand down

STEP 5: Prime and paint bookshelf (I used Behr paint and primer in one)

STEP 5: Paint 2-3 polycrylic coats for protection

...and you're done!

So, for $24 in lumber, plus $27 in finishing supplies...I have a $51 bookshelf (warning...I spent as much on the baskets as I did on the shelf :) But aren't they beautiful? haha )

Hope you like it! Once Colton gets more toys and needs a toy room, I'll have the other shelf and put 2 against a wall. I already bought the other matching baskets.

Dilemma

2010-06-16T14:47:00.006-06:00

Okay, the whole vaccine issue with babies totally stresses me out. Don't get me wrong, I feel vaccines are very good since they prevent terrible diseases, and I definitely don't think doctors are evil for giving vaccines. However, I'm not convinced the way they are administered and the timetable they have set for babies is the safest.

I didn't really think about it too much until Colton was in physical therapy for a few months and I got talking to a lot of the moms. A TON of moms were there with their autistic children, and I asked them questions and listened to their stories. Let's just say it was enough to make me nervous and now I can't get it out of my head.

So, here is my dilemma. Colton is 16 months old and hasn't received his 12 month MMR vaccine. We fly to Virginia in 2.5 weeks (lots of germs on those plans). Do I get him the vaccine before we go so he is immune , or continue to delay it until he's a little older and subject him to all the airplane germs? When SHOULD I give him the MMR vaccine?

(note: I've checked, and no one in Vegas offers splitting the MMR vaccine. It all has to be taken together)

WALKING!

2010-06-09T22:08:00.003-06:00

If you were to ask me 3 months ago when my child turned one and couldn't even ROLL over, if this day would ever come...I would tell you no. And here we are, Colton is walking! It's an awesome thing to witness and he looks so cute doing it. As he walks around he even sometimes babbles "walk walk walk walk" with each step. He is quite pleased with himself...as are we.

I happened to catch is veeerrryyy first steps on camera last week. Here they are:
(*his reaction to EACH step is great, and I'm pretty much flipping out the whole time. His motivation for walking forward was to see the dog on the Baby Einstein movie)

One week later and he's a total pro. Here he is walking, turning, making baskets... I love it:

Reason #4 Why I Want Colton to Walk

2010-05-30T21:02:00.006-06:00

This kid gets dirty. I mean REALLY dirty. Vegas ground is very gross since there isn't much rain, and within a few crawls outside...Colton looks like this. You don't even want to see the BOTTOM of his feet after using his walker outside. (love those chubby knees and cankles)
I'm pretty sure his knees are permanently blackened. Hey, at least it gives him a little tanner skin tone :) So, Colton gets a lot of baths these days. (great big white belly, isn't it?)

And just because Colton looks awesome...here is a picture of him in his pool attire.

Side note: It is surprsingly difficult to find sunhats...especially sunhats to fit my child's head which is probably the size of a 3 yr olds :) This one will do.

Growing up

2010-05-27T21:33:00.005-06:00

Colton is getting so old! He learns new words all the time and just babbles and babbles. Right now his favorite words are dog, basketball, touchdown, ball, cheese, shoes, dada, and baba. Watch the below video to see Colton demonstrate his speaking skills.

Colton also is finally showing some interest in walking. He's 15 months old and it's going to be getting super hot outside soon, so I really hope he gets the hang of it soon. I'd been trying to get him to use his walker for the past 2 months with no success and resulting in a screaming baby, but this week Colton decided on his own terms he was going to give it a try. And OH how he loves it!

This is such a fun stage, I love it. Love this boy (even his new little tantrums).

Presenting...

2010-05-18T13:33:00.004-06:00

My FINISHED headboard

totally and completely made by me (and Mike)

This headboard is a copycat of a Pottery Barn headboard that goes for $800. This cost me $90. I got the plans on this blog. The girl who produces the furniture designs is amazing.

My whole room now feels like a cool hotel retreat somewhere in the mountains. I LOVE IT.

I wish I had a better camera, but these pictures will have to do. Rustic. Distressed. Modern. Beautiful. Feel free to gush :)

Get excited.

2010-05-16T17:18:00.003-06:00

I just MAY have pictures to post in the next day or so of a headboard I made for my bed. By "made" I mean, bought the wood at Home Depot, cut it, built it, sanded it, stained it, and sealed it. I am feeling pretty accomplished. Now if the smell will just go away so I can put it up in my room!

Thanks to Heidi for the idea and knock-offwood.com for the step by step instructions.

FIVE

2010-05-02T21:51:00.007-06:00

05/05/05...coolest wedding date ever right? I agree. This year on 05/05 Mike and I celebrate our 5 year anniversary. That's kinda a big deal.

First ever picture of Angela and Mike (Oct 2003): Who would've thought when I randomly took this picture outside Helaman Halls at BYU with this random guy (that I only knew as "the basketball player")...that'd we'd end up married! To celebrate the big FIVE Mike and I took a day away at a nearby hotel Red Rock and left Colton at our friends house, the Bellows (thank you, thank you, thank you).We started the evening with some Cheesecake Factory...mmmm...Adam's Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple cheesecake is the best! We then went shopping and finished off the evening with a movie.

Can you find us in these pictures? hah.

Friday morning I woke up, and asked Mike what time it was... "6:50 am". We are used to waking up at 6:15 these days with Colton, so you better believe we closed all the room darkening curtains and just kept sleeping until 9 something. Man, it feels good to sleep in. We finished up the morning with the BEST buffet breakfast and then went and picked up the little man. A perfect 18 hour getaway.

Thank you Mike for a wonderful 5 years. I sure lucked out marrying you. We make the perfect match and have way too much fun for being an old married couple. Love you!

The perfect table

2010-04-28T13:52:00.004-06:00

Does the perfect table exist? I've been thinking about getting a new kitchen table. Our $99 table and chairs have done us well for the past 5 years, but it may be time in the next year to upgrade.

There are SO many things to think about though when purchasing a table:

1) Pub/counter height OR normal - I'm going with normal for kid friendly use

2) Circle or Square - circle fits our space well, but I may want to change to square

3) How many people should it fit? - It NEEDS to be able to fit 5 or 6 and with a leaf hopefully 8. I'm soooo tired of barely fitting 4, I can't ever have people over.

4) Color: Black, dark, medium, light, or white. I'm very confused on this one...I already have dark wood in the main room, but I don't want to overdue it.

5) Benches and/OR chairs - I don't know, maybe benches are nice kids?

6) Cushioned chairs or straight up wood- I'm leaning towards NO cushion because it'll get thrashed.

7) Distressed or smooth - I really like distressed, but I need to make sure food won't get stuck in the cracks...right?

What kind of table to you have? Do you like it? What's going to work and grow with my growing family, but STILL look awesome?

This is the table I like, but it doesn't fit the space and is probably a little too dark. I like the wood planks, bench, and simple lines. There isn't anything like this in a smaller size though (LESS than 60 in)

Mike likes something more along the lines of the first picture and this one because of the medium color, but I'm not sure if it's stylish...is it?

Not Cool

2010-04-23T09:07:00.004-06:00

Colton woke up at 5:40 am this morning. Not cool. Especially now that he only takes one nap a day. And...he hasn't woken up later than 6:30 am all week. Mom simply cannot handle a fussy baby from 5:40 am until naptime at 12:30 pm...ONLY for him to take just a 2 hour nap.

Mommy is tired. It doesn't help that daddy has been gone a ton this week and will be gone all weekend at youth conference.

Please Colton, for once in your life sleep past 6:30. Ugh.

Camping 101

2010-04-17T21:38:00.006-06:00

We successfully went on our first ever campout with Colton this weekend! Here's how we did at Warm Springs, by Camping 101 standards:

Eat yummy food- A+

Can't go wrong with hot dogs, smores, and a pancake and egg breakfast. In true Colton fashion, he downed every part of every meal.

Set up tent- A

We borrowed an awesome 6 man tent and set up Colton's pack n play on one side and a queen-sized air mattress on the other. Luxury? Well, almost...read on to the next section.

Stay warm- Mike D, the rest of us B

Mike quoted hours before the trip, "it'll be 60 at night, that's warm. I don't need my sweats. You don't need to layer Colton's clothing, he'll be fine." Fast forward to 3 am..."I am soooo cold. I'm wearing jeans, I didn't bring my sweats. Did you pack them?" All I know is that I could see my breath in the morning and the numerous crying children "I'm cold" from nearby friends' tents would indicate that it was INDEED cold.

Stay hydrated- A-

Spend quality time with dad (and friends)- A+

Colton was in heaven, he just crawled and crawled around everywhere constantly smiling. What beats being outside, with dad, and with balls to throw? In Colton's world, nothing.

Go swimming- A++++

We walked along a warm springs stream. The water was warm, it was 85, and Colton looooovvved throwing rocks and making splashes. I've never seen the kid laugh so hard. We also swam in the pools which were awesome.

Play with balls- A

That's pretty much Colton's life right now. Throwing balls, retrieving balls, pointing out objects that look like balls. Life is good.

Look cool- A++

Pants tucked INSIDE socks. Yes.
Overall, I would have to say I give the first campout an A! I think Colton would agree.

Boys.

2010-03-31T22:32:00.008-06:00

How is it that baby boys know exactly what to like to be like little boys?

Colton has recently turned into my little boy. He loves "vroom" ing cars, throwing balls, saying "whoa", spitting, wearing holes through knees, puppies, and being outside. It's like he's turned into a little boy overnight. Today we seriously spent more than 3 hours throwing and retrieving balls. Like father like son, right?

Here are a few pictures of what my little boy has been up to recently. Being silly...
Holding his favorite puppy...

playing outside...

making messes, eating tons, and playing with balls...

refusing to nap...but looking sleepy!

crazy bedhead...!!!!

I hope.

2010-03-27T15:20:00.004-06:00

I should have known!

I should have known that my child would hate HATE hate shoes when I finally decided to get him some. Yep, you heard me right. My 13 month old has never worn shoes. Since he was soooo behind in moving it just didn't make sense. Well, now that he is moving and needs to be wearing shoes, he is old enough where he has formed an opinion. a very strong opinion. And that opinion is he will have NOTHING to do with shoes. (*I know this because he screamed and screamed and kicked and kicked his feet when I put target tennis shoes on him today)

Sooo...the shoes would have to be soft, wide enough for big feet, and not have animals/trucks/baseballs on them.

The final purchase: PEDIPED. I hope this was a good $31 to spend....I don't even spend more than $30 on my OWN shoes...

come ON!

2010-03-22T23:34:00.006-06:00

So, I was looking through a magazine with all this baby stuff and just cracking up! Either I'm not a super experienced mom or there are some psycho, I mean, "more prepared" moms out there. Please tell me, do any of you HAVE or have CONSIDERED having any of these items?

1. Cozy Crib Tent: "not only prevents climbing and falling...prevents little limbs from getting stuck between crib rails"

My Opinion: Tent WITH zipper? Paranoid much? How about if you kid is mobile enough to get out of a crib, think about a toddler bed!

2. The Sit Seat: "It not only attaches to nearly every chair, anywhere, it attaches to YOU, securing baby on your lap hands-free!"

My opinion: There's an idea. A kid is too squirmy...so just STRAP them to your lap. That will go over well, I'm sure :) And if kids ARE sitting your lap, is it really necessary to secure them with straps?

3. Dry Eyes Visor: "We just made bathtime even happier! Our visor has prevented millions of tears..."
My Opinion: Riiiiighhht...kids aren't okay with covering their eyes with a towel but are okay with you placing a visor on their head? I guess it just looks sooo cool so it's okay.

4. Add-A-Size Garment Extender: "s-t-r-e-t-c-h the lifespan of more of baby's one piece outfits!"

My Opinion: Why not just by new onsies? If it's $10 for these, wouldn't it make sense to spend $10 on new onsies?

5. Backhoe: "Our kid testers SO dug this backhoe"
My Opinion: First of all...HATE the word backhoe, doesn't bring good images to mind. Next, okay, if your kid can operate this thing and you happen to have a sand filled backyard...props for you. Your kid is officially amazing and you should utilize his talent with vacuuming, mopping, shoveling...

Awesome. Thank you "One Step Ahead" for opening to my eyes to a world full of possibilities.

The Big

2010-03-21T21:28:00.000-06:00

2-5

Wow. I turn 25 today. It's kinda official don't you think?

I'm officially...way beyond high school and college

I'm officially...an adult

I'm officially...supposed to know what I'm doing

I'm officially...supposed to have any idea how my future is going to work out

I'm officially...a mom responsible for a whole little human being

I'm officially...a quarter of a century!

I'm WAYYYY behind on the whole grown up-got it all together-responsible-wise-adult thing :) Maybe I'll catch up this year.

and just because...here is a picture of my cute boy at the park complete with fake grass and dirt behind. haha.

They did it!

2010-03-18T13:53:00.003-06:00

GO COUGS!

That was seriously the longest 3 hours of my life. I was freaking out and so nervous. The losing streak is OVER.

There may be pillows and stuff thrown everywhere across my main room, a slightly scared child from screaming parents, and I now have no voice...but it's all good because BYU WON.

Double overtime. Of course. I should've known it would take the craziest game EVER for BYU to break through.

Congrats to Dave, Jimmer, Mike Lloyd and the Cougars on an amazing win.

Finally!

2010-03-04T20:43:00.010-07:00

...Colton is crawling! I am definitely a believer in physical therapy. A month ago, Colton was not even rolling over, sitting up from laying down, scooting, crawling ANYTHING (equivalent to a 6 month old's mobility level).

With 2 times a week physical therapy sessions for the past month and lots of at home practice, I present to you... my MOBILE child. ahhh...such a relief. On top of that, with the increased mobility, it appears Colton's mystery breathing problems are gradually going away. It is such a relief to know that my child is healthy and strong. He just needed a little bit of extra help!

Now maybe his mobility will be able to catch up with all his other strong skills like reading...(notice how he holds the book with his feet. Too funny. Seriously though, the kid loves reading books to himself.) ...and doing puzzles (ALMOST Colton. Almost. I walked away and when I came back, this is what he did. Every piece in a spot...just not the right spots :) Love it. )

Hooray for Colton! I never thought I'd be so happy to childproof a house!

*Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers on his behalf. We feel very blessed that everything has worked out with the breathing/moving!

one.

2010-02-28T23:44:00.006-07:00

My baby turned one this week. HAPPY BIRTHDAY dearest Colton. We love you to pieces. You just keep getting more and more fun and we are so happy to be your parents.
.

We were able to celebrate with grandma (visiting from Virginia), and friends Brooke, Zach and Ryan. Here are the highlights of his birthday in pictures complete with balloons, presents, cake, and tears :).

The beautiful decorations which lasted all of 5 mins after Colton's nap, when he decided he HAD to have them, so we took most down.

Opening presents: cars, drawing mats, Quiet Book from grandma (awesome awesome awesome), clothes, puzzles. He loved them all!
The wonderful birthday cookie! Don't you just love the star candles?
After Colton totally lost it crying when we put him in his highchair for the classic cake pictures, Mike decided to just hold on to him instead. Here he is post tears.
The classic birthday hat picture. Yes, it lasted all of 10 seconds. But that's all I needed to snap a photo.
And...then he lost it again crying, so I fed him his cookie cake on my lap. Messy, but happier since on mommy's lap.
Happy birthday Colton! We love you!

Don't judge me.

2010-02-18T21:14:00.003-07:00

Here is the truth. I really don't think I'll mind driving a mini van one day. I know I KNOW. A lot of my friends wouldn't be caught dead in one, but I think they are good cars. That being said, if I WERE to find an SUV-ish type car with similar features, I might be tempted. Do such SUVs exist?

Can anyone list off any SUVs that have these things comparable to a mini van?:

Price
Gas Mileage
Captain seats
Ease of use with children

And no, I'm not buying a new car yet. and NO, I am NOT pregnant.

Dancing Queen

2010-02-15T13:36:00.009-07:00

*For your viewing pleasure: a classic "prom" picture in front of a fake backdrop

Have any of you been dancing recently?

Well, Saturday was my first time in about 5 years. I have to admit, I was a little rusty. Our ward put on a Valentine's dance on Saturday night. It brought me back to my glory days at the Oakton Stake Dances in NOVA. I rocked those things...or at least I thought I rocked those things. haha.

It's amazing how your body loses that coordination. A room full over old married couples dancing...I'm pretty sure all the youth in the ward would have had a heart attack watching us.

I did redeem my dancing by busting out my breaking dancing move "the coffee grinder". It involves going on the floor and swinging one leg around in a circle while you hop over it with the other leg (like "skip it", but on the floor). Yeah, it was pretty awesome.

HAPPY Valentine's!

Whew.

2010-02-11T22:44:00.005-07:00

Whew. I'm starting to feel human again. Last week was so stressful. A day after our hospital/ER trip, I started Colton in physical therapy. Once it was determined that Colton's airways were fine and not causing him to not move, I decided to approach the moving problem head on.

Physical therapy: 2 times a week for the next 10 weeks, plus lots of at home practice

I know what you are thinking, "Oh angela is silly. Colton will move when he wants...he's fine."

I assure you...this kid. needs. physical. therapy. I know. I'm his mom. I've been watching my almost one year old NEVER make an attempt to sit up from lying down or crawl. He was months and months from crawling. And believe me, I've tried and TRIED to help him. Like I thought, the physical therapist said Colton's mobility was about at the same level as a 6 month old. Seriously. So, we are going to change that and get this kid moving. He's already shown great improvement and I'm feeling really good about it, although Colton isn't quite sure and cries practically the entire session.

Good news, Colton is fine in every other way...just happens to be significantly late in moving. Who knows exactly why. chubby, big head, cautious, content, chill little guy. So, for now, I'm going to pretend the weird breathing doesn't exist, and hopefully it just solves itself :)

ahhh, it's nice to feel almost normal again.

ER

2010-02-02T21:45:00.011-07:00

Colton, Mike and I got back from the ER a few hours ago. 30 mins after posting my blog, Mike thought he heard Colton waking up from his loooonnnnggg nap and I went up to check on him. I found a very VERY hot baby, breathing about the pace of a dog pant with no energy, kinda lethargic.
-

I got him a bottle and checked his temperate. At 104 I took out the thermometer told Mike to put him in a bath while I got the tylenol and called the Dr. (discharge information said: "a fever is not expected. If your child experiences a fever of over 101 contact practitioner). We noticed he didn't look quite as pink as he was supposed to, wasn't really moving around and still breathing fast. We got his temp down to 102.6.

Sooo...we got in the car fast and drove to the ER. There we got him hooked up to an IV (second of the day), got blood samples, and urine samples. We assumed he had some sort of reaction to the anesthesia this morning, however 4 hours later all the sample results came back showing that he didn't have the typical reactions for the anesthesia. of COURSE. Nothing understandable today.

The dr. dared to say "maybe it was just a coincidence and he happened to get a fever today" to which I responded with "no. NO WAY. It was not a coincidence. The kid had a temp of 98 this morning and by noon 104. "

So, now we are home. Colton's temp is back to normal and I'm keeping a close eye on him. He even smiled and gave us little claps of applause tonight...I'm glad this day is over with too Colton boy. In fact I'm glad this WEEK is over with...car accidents, scopes, ER trips...blood samples.

I love my little Colton and glad he's okay. My little mystery breathing and anesthesia reaction child.

Answer

2010-02-02T13:56:00.002-07:00

...But NO answer.

Well, my fear kinda came true. The pulmonologist didn't really notice anything irregular in Colton. I guess this is good because nothing is wrong with my child or his airways so he does not need surgery. However, he can't explain the odd breath holding breathing thing he does. I really REALLY didn't want to hear "Yeah, that is weird. I don't know why he is doing that"...but that's what I heard. So, door closed to problem in his airways, but door NOT closed to why he breathing irregularly and not moving at all.

I'm frustrated. disappointed. and confused.

My mind is racing with questions that I can't get answers to.
Is there really nothing wrong with Colton and he's just breathing weird for no reason? Is the non movement not connected at all with the breathing? Is it still connected and I just don't know how? Do I now go to a neurologist (pulmonologist mentioned it) to make sure there is nothing going on with breathing or movement? If I go neurologist, am I just wasting more money on a wild goose chase? Do I exhaust all possibilities just to make sure he's okay? How much MORE money could I possibly spend on medical bills this year? When do I start him in physical therapy? How long will it take him to move if he really has no problem? How long will it take him to move if he DOES have a problem? When will we recognize if there is a problem or not?

I'm trying to see the positive right now, but I'm more just feeling let down.

WISH LIST

2010-01-30T22:46:00.009-07:00

Here is my wish list for this week:

1) To NOT have to hold my child down by force while nurses/dr. attempt to give him an IV and put him under for his *"Scope". My emotional health cannot handle it anymore.

2) Have the Dr. very clearly and obviously IDENTIFY the problem in Colton's airways.

3) Have Dr. present a clear SOLUTION to the problem whether it be surgery or not.

4) FINALLY have an understanding why my child at almost 12 months has practically NO mobility, and find out it was related to his breathing all along! I hope I hope...

5) Have Mike NOT get in a car accident that almost causes our new car to get totaled (yes, this happened last week. He is okay thankfully.)

6) Make something other than cereal or quesadillas for dinner. Man, I was a miserable failure at cooking last week.

7) Manage to work my 4 hours a day, even though Colton is apparently transitioning to ONE 2 hr nap a day instead of 2 2 hour naps. Yeah, the Math doesn't work.

*Colton is getting Brochoscopy or "scope" on Tuesday to check out his airway passages to figure out why he has been breathing irregularly. It involves a tube down his throat with a little camera on the end.

Just breathe.

2010-01-23T14:27:00.007-07:00

Breathe in. Breathe out. Breathe in. Breathe out. Easy. Right? Wrong. For my little Colton, this has not been an easy task. About 2 weeks ago I noticed Colton was breathing very irregularly (always has been a little odd of a breather). Lots of holding his breath for a few seconds, slight grunting on the expiration, and then quick breaths in again. He started doing it all day, off and on. He did it when he was sad, excited, happy, relaxed, thinking...all the time.

Last week at Colton's well-check I mentioned it to my Doctor. She listened to the irregular breathing and wanted me to look into it further. So,

5 appointments
1 xray
2 oxygen level tests
1 appt with a pediatric pulmonologist
and 1 SCHEDULED hospital trip Feb 2 for the pulmonologist to put Colton under and do a "scope" of his breathing passageways (tube down throat with little camera) later...

I'm tired, worried and stressed. The pulmonologist agreed that Colton had a few irregular aspects to his breathing, and decided a scope was necessary. There are any number of things it could be, so hopefully the "scope" determines what it is, and it is not serious.

Side note: I wonder if his slight difficulty with breathing is part of the reason Colton doesn't like to move?

Here are a few video examples of his irregular breathing (turn up volume and listen carefully):

Lest you think he only does it when he is straining, here is an example of irregular breathing while relaxed (excuse the tired and slightly homeless looking darling baby)
*best example from :20-:40 seconds and 1:20-end

You know you live in a desert when...

2010-01-21T11:37:00.004-07:00

IF IT RAINS...

...The news talks excitedly at the possibility of Vegas receiving .5 in of rain over the course of 2 days. .5 in!!! Whoa, calm down everyone.

...Colton looks up to the sky first in surprise, then confusion, and then laughs as if the rain falling on his face is a funny joke. Silly rain drops. Falling on my head. Silly.

...I purposefully decide to go OUT and run errands just so I can use my windshield wipers and get wet. I gotta soak it all in.

...there is brown water running down the sides of the streets from washing away all the dust and dirt accumulated over the past 8 months of NO rain.

I love it!!

Colton moving update: well, I shouldn't really call it an update since not much has changed. My 11 month old it still not scooting or crawling. He is however, rolling a little more, attempting to pull up on things and reaching really far. I have this pit in my stomach telling me I'm going to have a one year old that doesn't move yet...sigh.

What Playoffs do to a man...

2010-01-19T10:40:00.005-07:00

Like many other husbands, Mike gets so excited for the playoffs. So excited, in fact, that he has even mastered the "listening to my wife" but "not really listening to my wife" technique.

During NFL Playoffs on Saturday, the following conversations occurred between me and Mike. Pay close attention to how Mike listens ENOUGH to give a valid response, but NOT enough to give the correct response.

Me: "Man, Reggie Bush is really small."

Mike: "Yeah he is."

Me: "How tall is he?"

Mike: "Oh, 6'3"."

Me: "Really? That's actually pretty tall!"

Mike: (now realizing he was actually talking) "Oh, whoops...I mean...he probably about 5'9" ."

Another conversation (5 mins later):

Me: "I wasn't able to reach Brooke this morning, so I guess we aren't watching Ryan while they go on a date."

Mike: "Oh, that's too bad..."

Mike again a minute later: (now realizing he was actually talking) "Uh oh, don't be mad at me."

Angela: "Come on, completely wrong answer again?"

Mike: "Yeah, actually...Zach (Brooke's husband) called this morning and said they'd drop off Ryan at 5."

Wow Mike, impressive. Impressive indeed. For the record, Mike is normally a very good listener.

Good News. Bad News.

2010-01-12T21:23:00.006-07:00

GOOD NEWS:

My new kitchen aid I got for Christmas works. It kneaded my dough perfectly, which then proceeded to rise perfecly, mold into my twist shapes perfectly, and cook perfectly.

BAD NEWS:

Rolls taste really bad when you forget to include one important ingredient: salt.

Dang...24 rolls into the trash (and a few hours of wasted time).

Any roll recipies you'd like to share? I'm on the hunt for the best roll recipe.

The Jump

2010-01-06T21:06:00.005-07:00

(random pic of Colton, just because)

Well, we finally made it back from our long visit to Houston, TX for the holidays. But, I should clarify that we barely made it back.

Monday, our flight was set to take off at 5:50 pm. We got on the road a little later than I had wanted, but was assured everything would be fine. When we kept hitting traffic, my heart progressively started beating faster and faster. We finally arrived at the airport with 50 minutes until takeoff. After waiting 25 minutes, we got to the counter, received our boarding passes and started sprinting to the security check in.

Important note: Although we could see the security check right next to the ticketing counters, there was a 4 ft tall wall barrier in between, forcing us to take the looonnnngg way around to get there.

At security check, I quickly hand over our IDs and boarding passes.

"Where is Michael's boarding pass?"

It wasn't there. Angela and Colton were stapled together, but no Mike.

"Can I just go over that wall there to get it from our ticketing counter? We are going to miss our flight," Mike pleads.

"No, you can't go that way. You have to go around..." she stops for a second, "well, never mind. He just jumped over the wall."

I couldn't watch. I kept my eyes down. Mike had taken off running and totally jumped and cleared the wall, complete with 6 TSA people standing nearby just watching him. The people standing in line applauded his efforts as he ran up to our counter. He got what he needed and looked back to the wall, but this time, a big TSA lady shook her head back and forth as if to say "No way. Not again."

Mike sprinted around the long way. We ran the rest of the way and stepped on the plane 9 minutes before takeoff. Doors were supposed to have closed 10 mins prior. We even got to sit next to eachother. A miracle.

MORAL OF THE STORY IS: always plan on being at the airport 1 1/2 hours early! If you are going to do something dangerous, like jump a wall barrier, do it with style.

"He'll be fine"

2009-12-14T10:59:00.004-07:00

"You're so lucky"
"I wish mine didn't move yet"
"Once he starts moving, you'll long for the days when he didn't"
"He'll move when he wants to..."

...really? Will he? These are all the statements I get in regards to my 10 month old child not moving yet. Not only is he not moving, he doesn't even attempt to move and shows zero interest. no rolling, no scooting, no pulling up, nothing. (He can roll over if he tries REALLY hard). I have tried everything in the book, but when you have a child that screams when you put him on his tummy no matter what and instantly rolls to his back, it's kinda impossible to teach a kid to crawl.

At what point do doctors officially become worried/make you take action (like physical therapy) etc. for babies not moving. 10 months? 12 months? 14 months?

I just want to see SOME progress, and we aren't getting any these days...

Note: I do have a large baby with a big head and cautious nature...I've heard those contribute to late moving.

Baby, it's cold outside

2009-12-11T00:21:00.004-07:00

It's been really cold the past week. Since we aren't very prepared clothing-wise for 30 degree weather, I had to put together a winter outfit of my own for Colton. Here he is ready for our weekly jog complete with:

my over sized BYU beanie (but not too over sized, the kid had a big head haha)
zipper jacket
adult gloves (which he proceeded to just flap his hands until they fell off)
socks (he doesn't own any shoes yet...hey I know he's almost 10 months, but the kid isn't even close to crawling yet so why bother?)

We need some warmer clothes. But, he does look pretty DANG cute in mine :)

Don't worry, I had him wrapped up in a fleece blanket also!

Love

2009-11-30T18:35:00.004-07:00

I love this time of year. I've been excited for Christmas since about June. This year is our first Christmas with a baby of our own, and it makes it 20 times more fun. The morning after I set up for Christmas, Colton's eyes darted around everywhere with excitement to see all the new decorations. He just sits there and stares at the tree all lit up. I love it.

So bring on the cookies. hot chocolate. christmas lights. presents. music. nativity scenes. cards. bring it all on!

What?

2009-11-19T22:08:00.005-07:00

The following conversation occurred today at the Dr. office between me and the receptionist:

Receptionist: "Aw, your baby is so cute."

Me: "Thank you, he's my big boy."

Receptionist: "What nationality is he?"

Me: "What?...him?" pointing at my child with a confused face.

Receptionist: "Yeah, he looks like he has some other nationality in him."

Me: "Uhhh...white and white, his dad is a red head and I'm blonde. We are both as white looking as they come."

Me continuing: "What nationality did you think he had in him?"

Receptionist: "I don't know exactly...something different."

WHAT? haha. What ELSE could be in him? Does he look part Hawaiian, Asian, Hispanic, Black? That conversation was a first (and probably last). haha.

and just because...here is a picture of what Colton has looked like recently (taken a couple mo. ago). 4 teeth in 4 weeks, and no mobility/crawling yet will do that do a baby.

I have one

2009-11-18T22:46:00.003-07:00

I have a ticket! A ticket to see New Moon this weekend. I never see movies, they cost too much...but a bunch of girls from my ward are going to see it so I figured might as well. It should be fun.

Maybe I should go out and buy a Team Edward shirt and vampire teeth...and scream and jump up and down when Edward comes on the screen...just kidding :)

I hope it's worth the money!

Hate

2009-11-15T07:31:00.002-07:00

Hate is a strong word. But, it is the way I feel about daylight savings. I mentioned a few days after daylight savings that Colton was waking up way early. 2 weeks past the switch, Colton has shown NO signs of improvement or adjusting.

Today- wake up time: 5:10 am
Yesterday- wake up time: 6:20 am
The day before- wake up time: 6:00 am

This is coming from the kid that usually slept until 7 or 8.

HELP! I am NOT a morning person. Advise please?

My First Project!

2009-11-06T22:15:00.006-07:00

I finished my first actual sewing project today, and I LOVE IT! I never knew I could be so excited about a stocking. Here is Colton's Christmas stocking, complete with: outside fabric, batting, AND lining...cuff...and cute decorations with some embroidery. And I made up the pattern all by myself.

You like it? (I am very proud of myself if you couldn't tell, so don't tell me that you don't like it...or else)

Close up of the fabric and cute star (note the basic embroidery)

The lining (it even has little white stars on it). Isn't the stocking so perfectly fluffy?

Love love love it. I had so much fun making it. Only problem is, now I want coordinating ones for me and Mike...

Stupid

2009-11-03T22:45:00.003-07:00

Daylight Savings is stupid. Here are the top 3 reasons I hate the hour change:

1. Colton now wakes up at 5:55 am every day (one hour EARLIER), but still goes to bed at 7:30 pm. Tell me how that works.

2. It is pitch black here by 5. Five! Not cool.

3. Colton is super fussy in the evenings. I mean non-stop whining. I've resorted to taking him on walks outside in the pitch black.

Do children EVER adjust to the time change?

And now presenting...

2009-10-29T21:13:00.005-06:00

Colton the PIRATE. Arrrr....

Cutest pirate ever? I think so.

It's official!

2009-10-22T22:45:00.004-06:00

I am officially part of the "Mommy Club". How did I officially become a member you ask? Because tonight, I officially lost my mind. I spent 3 hours at a church activity tonight without even realizing that I was wearing 2 DIFFERENT SHOES.

Proof below (black and brown--not even close):

The story of the mismatched shoes:

Tonight was Young Women in Excellence, a big night for the YW. I was in charge of all the musical numbers and hoping for a smooth night. I was feeling very proud of myself, all freshly showered, with no spit up on the shoulder, make up on, and hair straightened. Looking good. As I'm leaving, my child is screaming for me (very common these days as I am the only one that can calm him down) and so while holding him--all 22.5 lbs of him-- I finish getting my things to go out the door. No hands, I open the closet and dig one foot into the pile of shoes and put a shoe on one foot...I then dig with the other foot a little more and put another shoe on. Peep toe...heel...check.

Fast forward 3 hours until activity is over...

YW leader: "Angela, did you realize you were wearing two different shoes?"

Then one of the young women piped in: "yeah, I noticed that during the program. I didn't tell you because I figured there was nothing you could do about it. I told a few of the other girls though."

Then, trying to make me feel better she said: "It's okay, it happens sometimes."

To which I replied with: "I actually don't think it does happen...ever..."

End of embarassing story.

___________________________

I was laughing so hard I was crying. So, maybe I've lost my mind...but at least I haven't lost my sense of humor! Anyone else ever have mommy moments like this?

Pumpkin Patch: Vegas Style

2009-10-21T17:07:00.006-06:00

So, me and my friend Brooke decided to go to a pumpkin patch today. We knew Vegas didn't have the best pumpkin patches (okay, let's be honest. Vegas fall stinks. It doesn't exist), but figured it would still be fun to at least get the classic "cute pictures of my baby on a pumpkin" picture.

However, it's a little harder than we thought to find a pumpkin patch. Here are our attempts this afternoon.

Pumpkin Patch #1: Some orchard. We were very excited..."oooo an orchard. How cool." Right? No not cool. Only open Tuesday, Thursday and Sat from 8 to 12. AND...from what we could see, there were random, tiny half-smashed pumpkins in this open scary field.

Pumpkin Patch #2: Deserted looking shed with lots of "Closed" signs. Same story. Not open. (looked more like a haunted house than a pumpkin patch)

Pumpkin Patch #3: I called Mike and he checked the one by my work...closed after noon. It's in a dirt lot right by an intersection.

Pumpkin Patch #4: WALMART! Yes, they are ALWAYS open and were bound to have pumpkins. Happy Halloween Colton. I hope your first pumpkin patch experience at Walmart was a good one ("unbeatable" even...see above picture)!

Sneak Peak

2009-10-15T22:22:00.008-06:00

Here is a sneak peak at Colton's Halloween costume.

Be excited for Halloween. Be very, very excited.
And just to get in the spirit of things, here are the first few pirate jokes I found while searching the Internet:

Q: How do you keep a pirate from robbing your house?
A: Fill your lawn with beavers! (Angela commentary: What? As in, they'll eat the wood of the boat?)

Q: Why did the pirate visit the Sistine Chapel?
A: To admire the ARRchitecture! (Angela commentary: That's not even funny. Architecture and pirates don't combine for humor, neither does emphasizing ARR in words.)

Q: What kind of phone calls do pirates make late at night?
A: Arrr, they be makin' BOOTY calls! (Angela commentary: Okay, that's just inappropriate. haha.)

Q: How many pirate jokes are lame?
A: Most of them ARR! (Angela commentary: I couldn't agree more.)

Q: Why did the pirate cross the sea?
A: To get to the other tide! (Angela commentary: Really? REALLY? C MON. That just makes me mad.)

Q: What is a pirate's favorite cereal?
A: Cap'n Crunch! (Angela commentary: Now, THAT'S a good joke.)

Loved it.

2009-10-08T21:58:00.005-06:00

Last week we all went to Utah for Colton's first visit! We had a blast and it is the perfect time of year to visit Utah...autumn, changing leaves, football, jackets...love it.

Here is the week we had in pictures:

Sundance trip. It was so beautiful, all the leaves were bright colors. I was pretty terrified holding Colton on the ski lift to get to the top however. Talk about a tight grip on the little guy! Shouldn't they have more safety features on the lifts besides a little bar?

The NEW and improved Cannon Center with my brothers. It's awesome! Seriously, forget the "Freshman 15"...because it's now the "Freshman 25". Very cute picture below, so cute you should probably zoom in on it.

BYU Bookstore and Colton looking cute in his jacket! I got a great new Nike BYU shirt...love it (it's the one I'm wearing in the Sundance pics) I even got a Jamba Juice. Yumm...

NOT PICTURED: Kneaders French Toast. It deserved a picture because it was so good.

Fun with family. Colton got to hang out with his grammy and grandpa and Great grandma and grandpa...also tons of cousins, aunts, etc. It was great! Colton thinks his grandpa is pretty funny, and gives the best smiles to his grammy. We miss them :(

Enjoying nature. We ate dinner with the family at a cabin in the canyons. It was beautiful! (I vote the below picture one of Colton's fat pictures. Camera adds 10 lbs babe, don't worry)

Seeing old friends. We hung out with byu bball friend Jimmy Balderson and his wife, while watching the football game AND eating a BBQ. Does life get better?

WOW, that's a lot of drool Colton.

BYU football. I even got my favorite hot chocolate...AND burned myself, as always.

Loved it. Loved it Loved it.

Oh, and I publicly apologize to ALL of you in Utah who attempted to hold Colton. If it makes you feel better, he screamed after 10 seconds for everyone :)

Cute?

2009-10-01T20:57:00.003-06:00

YES.

I am pretty sure I have only 1 family picture of all of us since Colton was born. That changed this week when we got family picture #2 taken. This one makes up for our lack of pictures over the past 7 months. I love it! Mike's aunt snapped it and it only took 30 seconds. Thanks Joeen.

Feel free to ooo and ahhh.

funny kid

2009-09-25T12:45:00.007-06:00

I love my little Colton a ton and think he's the best, but I still realize the funny things about his personality. I've mentioned before how he hates public. No joke, EVERY time I run an errand he screams at least once during the outing.

Examples:

Ward activity.Last weekend at our 5k, he's in the stroller and barely keeping it together as long as no one acknowledges his existence. A friend comes up and says "oh, hi Colton! Look how big you're getting"...to which he looks at me and Mike, turns his lip out and screams (with no build up).

Church. Sacrament meeting is over, Colton is on my hip. A lady walks by and says, "Wow, he's sitting up on his own and everything"...to which Colton looks at me, turns his lip out and screams.

Kohls. While walking out of Kohls an older lady looks over at us (she made the mistake by noticing Colton, who likes to go unnoticed) and mentions "I have 20 grandchildren"...to which....YOU get the idea.

...

Is this normal? haha. Maye he is:

Extra sensitive? Shy? Just a baby?

Funny kid.

Beginner

2009-09-18T23:49:00.004-06:00

I decided I want to start doing fun projects. I figure since I got a sewing machine for Christmas, I could start with something easy. Any ideas? I was thinking of some kind of blanket or baby blocks...

While looking for easy sewing projects, I stumbled upon these suggestions for beginners and cracked up. Really?

1. Grocery bag caddy (I rename this: Poop Look-A-Like Thing)

2. Bitter Cold Face Warmer (I rename this: Old Western Dust Blocker OR Hostage Shut-er Up-er)

3. Checkbook holder (I rename this: Most Worthless Item Ever)

4. Removable Money Hiding Bra Pocket (I rename this: Whaaaaat?)

Please help me. I want a fun sewing project. These will NOT do.

"Of life"

2009-09-14T23:31:00.005-06:00

(Pictured above: me holding a portion of the weed of life that I sawed down today.)

Whenever something is really big, I like to add "of life" after it. So...I present to you the
WEED OF LIFE.

Today I finally gave in and sawed down a weed in my neighbors yard that was practically a tree. It was approx 6 ft. tall and the truck was 3 inches in diameter. Can you say Nasty. Na-haaaaa-styyyy. I had to take action as the owner only comes to visit 2 times a year from CA (yes, this is the same house from the post with the creepy ghost looking thing in the backyard).

Please please people, keep your weeds under control. Hint: weeds are officially OUT of control once they start consuming neighboring yards and when people start mistaking it for a tree.

Mr. Personality

2009-09-06T23:03:00.004-06:00

I know, I know. Post overload. Mike was out of town, so that is my excuse. Here are a few short videos of Colton showing off his little personality.

1) Talking and gurgling. Colton likes to talk a lot and explore with different noises. Mike and I thought this noise was particularly funny.

2) Food preferences. In this video I ask Colton if he'd like some more peas, to which he responds with a head shake and furrowed eye brow. Funny kid. Probably not intentional on his part, but still funny.

and save the best for last...
3) Lack of mobility. This is proof that my kid is lazy with moving. Just watch. It's pretty funny.

I think...

2009-09-05T23:41:00.005-06:00

...Mike is pretty happy right now (here are the pictures he sent me from the BYU OU game)

...I am pretty happy right now

...BYU fans across the country are happy right now

Awesome game. Go Cougs!

Mike picked the perfect time to do a guys trip. Not only did Mike get to sit in a suite at the BYU OU game, but he also got to play in a BYU alumni golf tourney (and win), tailgate, hang out with byu freshmen friends till 4 in the morning, and cheer as BYU beat OU. Glad you had a great boys trip babe!

---

Oh, and you owe me :)

Flattered or creeped?

2009-09-04T09:54:00.006-06:00

I just got back from running with Colton. On my run I ran past an older man walking a dog. The following conversation occurred:

Man: "If you was my wife, I'd tell you that you looked good and didn't need to run."
Me: While continuing to run and not look back, "Maybe I look good because I run."
Man: "Could be true. But you look great for having just had a baby."

Should I be flattered or creeped? I think I'm more creeped. Where do people get off thinking they can just say things like that. And YES, I was tightly holding my can of pepper spray.

Note: Don't worry about my safety. I ran at 8:30 by a road with lots of cars going by and children going to school.

Is it just me?

2009-09-03T00:41:00.007-06:00

I love cereal. Cold, crunchy cereal.

I actually prefer it to any other breakfast. Really.

When I lived at the dorms at BYU and had the entire Canon Center at my disposal, I still chose to eat cereal. When I'm at a hotel with a breakfast bar, I always grab the box of cereal. It's actually the only thing that can get me out of bed in the morning...knowing I can go downstairs and eat a bowl of cereal.

In fact, I also have to eat a bowl of cereal every NIGHT before I go to bed.

Sometimes when Mike announces we should just "scrounge around for dinner tonight" I get excited because that means I can just have a bowl of cereal. Pathetic, I know.

I have this problem with cereal however. I finish the cereal, but still have leftover milk...sooooo I poor more cereal in the milk to finish it up...but then I need more milk for the cereal...and the cycle continues until I've had about 4 bowls.

Am I alone on this? I hope others share in my cereal love.

Here are my cereals of choice at the moment:
Breakfast: Frosted Mini Wheats, Raisin Bran, Honey Bunches of Oats
Nighttime snack: lighter cereals such as Rice Krispees, Special K

Time.

2009-08-27T21:23:00.011-06:00

Colton turned 6 months this week. Time is a funny thing. Especially in the world of babies. Time seems to tick on minute by minute and day by day so slowly at first..."I'll never sleep more than 1 hour at a time" "my baby is never going to learn how to smile" "he'll always need me to bounce him on the exercise ball to fall asleep". But then, looking back it all seems like it went by so fast. In just 6 months my child grew 6 inches, gained nearly 13 lbs and is almost (I know he's a little behind) rolling and sitting up.

I look at these pictures below and remember the emotions I was going through at this time. The nurses placed him in my arms and we just stared at each other. I was so scared. Colton was darling, but such a little stranger to me. Now 6 months later, he is a whole little person complete with a personality, likes and dislikes, favorite toys, rolly arms and legs, and our little buddy.

I'll keep kissing these cheeks as much as I can, because apparently one day Colton will grow up and won't let me. I don't believe it though.
What great adventures lie ahead in the next 6 months?...rolling...crawling...walking...talking. We have a lot of learning to do!