The Barlows

Hat, hat, baby and a hat!

2012-01-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

Christmas in North Dakota 2011

2012-01-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

We just moved this month to Minot North Dakota. Doesn't that sound fun? Don't you just want to pack up and move here yourself?! It's FREEZING, but Minot really isn't that bad. I will say that it's full of a bunch of Scrooges, because we called EVERYWHERE to try and volunteer on Christmas Eve and Day and no one would even let us come sing Carols! BOO!!

We weren't exactly motivated to get a tree up after all the unpacking and I felt so lame and sad. Our friend Spencer saved the day and got a free tree, gold garland, some ornaments, a tree stand and tree skirt for $2.50 at the thrift store!! Way to save the day Spencer! He was pretty proud of himself. He topped it off by making a star out of foil. I think it made us all feel a bit more cheerful.

Our Holiday was pretty basic, but we had a good time and who says it needs to be fancy? Spencer helped me cook a big Turkey dinner with all the trimmings and it was just delicious! We played Jenga, built a gingerbread house (Spencer and I did anyway), drank eggnog, watched lots of Christmas movies (mainly Polar Express) and had a big Christmas breakfast. We even hung our stockings up on a broom and set it on stools like I did growing up. We can't forget that Anson had a colorful sweater vest to wear on both days--what a stud!

We opened one gift up on Christmas Eve and though Anson wasn't sure why he was all of the sudden allowed to rip paper, he wasn't asking questions!

Anson was spoiled by all of course and Taylor, Spencer and I ended the day content as can be with gifts a plenty. Thanks to all! We missed our families very much, but all in all, it was a great Christmas!!

Eat your heart out Cindy Crawford.

2011-12-28T18:32:00.001-07:00

'Cause you ain't got nothin on me!

Jolly old St. Nicolas

2011-12-10T15:09:00.003-07:00

I got them moves like Jagger...

2011-12-04T21:53:00.001-07:00

CODE 2!! CODE 2!!!

2011-12-04T14:06:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's right. Anson had his first code 2 ever in the tub this morning. For all of you who don't know what I'm talking about, that means he pooped in the tub. Pretty sure the grunting gave me enough warning to get him out before the morsels started falling, but I decided I'd rather they fall in the water, than on the rug especially because he was all clean and I just whisked him right out before they even plopped in the water. All I can say is praise heaven that what he did in his diaper right after didn't end up in the tub!

We're stuck like glue, whether you like it or not!

2011-12-03T09:16:00.002-07:00

Addy only tolerates Anson, because he gives her food from his tray and sometimes she likes the love he gives to her and will give him slobbery kisses. Other than that, she's not his biggest fan--he ruined her life. As far as Anson knows, they are best friends for life! Bonded by kisses, slobber, food, rides on Addy's back and lots and lots of snuggles! So deal with it Addy!

Sad Panda

2011-12-01T08:53:00.002-07:00

My Sweet Hubby works in the oil fields of North Dakota and has been gone for two week stints. He just left yesterday for another two weeks! Up to this point, Anson and I were going to stay here in Idaho and just visit the prairie lands of ND. Turns out it's WAY too hard on Taylor to work his buns off all day and then come home to an empty house. I'd say that's more than understandable and I wouldn't say it's been exactly fun for us. Though it pains me to leave our house AGAIN, it's just not worth being away from Taylor--so to North Dakota we go!!

Yesterday morning before he left, he and Anson shared breakfast (french toast) and it was the sweetest sight! I just love my men!! We were some sad panda's when we watched Taylor drive away, but he's securing a home in ND for us and we'll be together again soon enough!! Can't wait!

Let me just say how grateful I am to have such a hard working Husband. He really is pretty incredible. To be willing to sacrifice so much to provide for our family is a quality in him that I admire A LOT!

All you need for Christmas is a penguin sweater and froggie boots!!

2011-11-30T09:36:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T16:34:00.000-07:00

A few highlights from our Thanksgiving this year: We got to spend it with the Ybarras (Auntie, Uncle and cousins) and my Grandparents! There was delicious food and we experienced yams with caramelized pecans and marshmallows! Holy yum! We watched movies, laughed, ventured out to Walmart for black Friday and just enjoyed each other. Hope everyone had an equally as happy Thanksgiving!

Take a bite out of crime!

2011-11-26T09:38:00.000-07:00

I'm really grateful this Thanksgiving that Teton Valley has a very low crime rate, because if we had left our garage door open and the door into the house unlocked for two days almost anywhere else, we would have been cleaned out!!!! Our neighbor dog ate some trash, but that was the extent of the damage! Thank heavens!!!! My Hubby was ready to rip my head off and then he realized that the garage didn't shut because he left the snow shovel in front of the censor--silly boy!!!

Thankful

2011-11-25T09:02:00.002-07:00

I'm so thankful for my family--my wonderful Husband and my beautiful baby boy.

I'm thankful for each and every member of mine and Taylor's families.

I'm thankful for my wonderful friends.

I'm thankful for our home.

I'm thankful for clothes on our backs and for our health.

I'm thankful for freedom and for this breathtaking world we live in and even more grateful for the opportunity to go out and discover it.

Karma

2011-11-22T13:19:00.002-07:00

Anson is such a mild little boy and sometimes I brag about it (not to other Moms)-- I just get frustrated real easily when he's hard, because he is usually so easy going. Well, this week karma smacked me right in the face! I'll show you says Karma! We watched a lot of Yo Gabba Gabba! this week, because it couldn't be avoided. We were out of town and therefore there was nothing else for Anson to do other than get into trouble (no child proofing), so to the front of the t.v. (portable dvd player) he went! He turned into a devil child! Temper tantrums like you wouldn't believe, destroying things just to make me mad, hitting and scratching me and very, very poor listening skills! Time for a Yo Gabba Gabba fast!

He's lucky that he's cute, cause if he wasn't I'd have locked the door and thrown away the key! Not really! The t.v. has been off all day and he has already improved. Crazy...

Sprechen Sie Deutsch

2011-09-26T18:42:00.000-06:00

Our friend Spencer's family hosted a foreign exchange student from Germany a few years ago and they have remained friends since then. We had the great oppurtunity to have Meita and her husband Bini come and stay with us for the weekend to wrap up their five week honeymoon traveling around America! Spencer, Tanner and Lindsay came too. It was a great couple of days, jam packed with fun. Saturday we went fishing on the river, Anson was a champ and Sunday we went hiking up to the wind caves, which were so awesome and freezing!! We got Anson to the entrance of the cave, but he wouldn't go further, because it was too cold. We ended the night with an awesome dinner and the Knotty Pine. Also, Spencer Meita and Bini made us Eggs Benedict on Sunday morning... OH.MY.GOSH. It was that good! We hope to have the chance to visit Meita and Bini in Germany in the near future!

Also, Tanner and Spence thought it would be a good idea to take a shower under the waterfall naked. Yep, that's sounds about right.

We got the greatest compliment too, they said coming to stay with us was the best part of their trip! Come back anytime!!

Summa, Summa, Summatime!

2011-08-28T12:44:00.001-06:00

Raspberry picking in the backyard and river floats with friends, now that's Summertime. P.S. isn't my baby cute?!? I just love him!

Rumor has it

2011-08-23T11:05:00.001-06:00

That ear infections suck. Well, now we know first hand that the rumors are true. 105.3 fever = one worried Mama, a trip to the emergency room, antibiotics, flip flopping Advil and Tylenol, lots of sleep, cuddles and Yo Gabba Gabba!

And apparently, I'm that crappy Mom who takes pictures of her kid when he's sick. Gotta remember everything right?!

Oh Hey!!

2011-08-18T09:51:00.000-06:00

Two of the cutest and greatest people I know surprised us with a visit. They were only gonna stay for 4 days, but their truck broke down and they had to stay for two more. I was pissed...HAH! It was an awesome week! Love you Daddy and Mama!

Don't you love their matching shirts?

85% me

2011-08-04T19:18:00.001-06:00

While Anson may look exactly like Taylor (with my skin and hair), his personality is totally me with a side of Taylor. Observe:

He loves to dress up, but sometimes it ends up being a little painful and perhaps awkward.

He LOVES food, unlike his Dad who only eats because he has to in order to live. Anson also loves the little extras that I adore and his Father doesn't, like: ranch, sour cream and pickles!

This kid loves sleep. He has always been a good napper and sleeps great at night, but this one I think is a reflection of Taylor and myself.

The 15% of him that is like Taylor is his mildness. He is so easy going and thank heaven for that, because it balances out the other 85% of him that is SPAZZY and LOUD! I also must add that the kid has rhythm and he love, love, loves to dance (very much unlike his Dad) to anything even classical music. It's hilarious! I have a video of him dancing to the music that plays on his swing, but it won't upload...lame! That's all for now!

Peace, Love and Sara Bareilles

2011-07-28T15:34:00.002-06:00

Saturday July 16th was a whole new experience for Anson and I. It started with a 5k run with my best buddy Dawn and with her encouragement, we jogged the whole thing. I may have had to fight the urge to vomit, but I finished and it felt GREAT!

Then it was on to Targheefest! It's an annual concert that the local ski resort puts on for the entire weekend. The headliners that we were most excited about were Sara Bareilles and Michael Franti.

Sara rocked the house! She even sang her own version of Mumford and Sons "Little Lion Man," and it was so good! I may have dorked out and got her autograph, I thought why not? I'll never get to be this close a star at a normal concert, especially one who has talent! So I went for it!

I had never heard Michael Franti's music before and I'm officially a fan! It's peace and love meets reggae and it's AMAZING! I love the messages in his songs, they were all super uplifting. Should he make an appearance in the valley again, I will be there for sure!

It was a fantastic Saturday!

Loves!

2011-07-25T20:54:00.002-06:00

Cousins Bailey, Claire and Hazel, Aunt Lauren, Natalie, Papa and Grandma Barlow came to visit for two whole weeks, it was kind of awesome! Here's why:

We ate every carb imaginable, namely cinnamon rolls, calzones, artisan bread, whole wheat waffles, crepes and who knows what else. Either way it was delish and we ate like kings and queens! We played in the mud, the cousins took baths together (Anson was a little freaked at first), had picnics in the backyard, fed horses, played at Grandpa Larry and Grandma Pam's, which included a sleigh ride pulled by pony's and a ride on Grandpa Larry's lawn mower! We went to Cousin Melanie's wedding, went for walks, ate A LOT OF SUGAR and gave each other kisses. Basically, a fantastic two weeks! Thanks everyone for coming to play!

4th of July and then some

2011-07-14T15:06:00.002-06:00

Our 4th pf July weekend was great fun, one that I'm sure none who participated will soon forget. We got to go to a carnival which included pig and dog races, bounce houses, a hilarious hypnotist and a comedian (who wasn't funny at all). Glenn Beck was the guest of honor and he gave a speech about patriotism that made everyone (accept hippies) proud to be Americans. His speech was concluded with a firework show that put all others that I've seen to shame. On Independence Day, we celebrated with the annual Victor 4th of July parade, the craft fair, a smattering of delicious food and of course, more fireworks. It was a faboo weekend.

The wall of people protecting our babies from the sun.

Fun at the Parade!

Dinner time!!

Anson's first sparkler!

P.S This marked the start of a super fun two weeks with Auntie Lauren, Natalie, Grandma and Papa Barlow and cousins, Bailey, Claire and Hazel. We haven't seen Aunt Lauren since Anson was born, so that was extra special to have her come!

Goodbye ocean, hello mountains!

2011-07-05T21:24:00.002-06:00

Well, I've gotten real bad about this whole blog thing lately... So here's a story in pics for ya.

Basically, we're really glad to be home. We love the space in our house (Anson is obsessed with playing in his room), we love the mountains, bike rides, the smell after it rains, the horses in our pasture, hikes, long walks, the AMAZING gas station that we live only 2 blocks from (hello fountain sodas), camping, swimming, trips to the zoo and playing in the park! The list could go on forever. Oh Idaho, we sure have missed you!

The best of the best

2011-06-20T10:30:00.001-06:00

As far as Dad's go, I'm pretty sure that I have the best there is...

Amazing Dad + carpenter + mechanic + race car driver + super Grandpa = Shear Awesomeness

Thanks Daddy for your love, support, friendship and for helping me become who I am today! I love your face off!

Incredible Dad + Entrepreneur + Mr. fix-it sprinkler man + Sweet Papa = Radical

Dad, Thank you for being great as both a Dad and Friend and for teaching us not be afraid to chase our dreams. Love you lots!

Best Daddy on the planet + Entrepreneur + Expert fly fisherman + Sweet Hubby = LOVE

Honey, Thanks for being awesome! Thank you for being such a hard worker and for loving Anson and I so much! We like you a lot!

Happy Father's Day!

I'm not that spoiled

2011-06-10T10:10:00.001-06:00

Rest assured that Anson and I didn't get to have all the fun on our two week trip to the Zona and P-town. Taylor got to have a bit of a party himself... Two of his good friends met him in FL for some fishing in the Keys, a fishing competition and some touring in South Beach.

I don't know if you can tell, but they died and went to heaven.

The men in action.

Soakin up some rays!

They didn't just fish during the day, they also fished late into the night. Crazy boys are in love with fish or something.

A little hang out session in Miami to end their week of bliss.

No wives, no schedules, just a boat, fishes and the Ocean. Pretty rad if you ask me.

Love me some OREGON!

2011-06-09T11:38:00.000-06:00

The last 7 days of Anson's and my trip were spent with my family in Portland! It was a busy week, that's for sure. How did this trip of awesomeness begin? With me getting my hair done, which isn't very exciting but it meant that I got visit with my friend Rachelley. The next day is when the fun began!

Hello Oceanside!!!

Aren't we pretty?

"The digs". Lisa's Dad was awesome enough to let us stay in one of his beach houses right in the heart of Oceanside! Of course in only takes about 15 minutes to walk around the whole town, but it was lovely. I learned a lot about my Sisser's childhood--she spent a ton of time here as a kid and I can see why she loves it so much!

NO KIDS ALLOWED! That's right people, 2 1/2 days and 2 nights of girl time! Sadly Joannie and Moni weren't able to make it, but the show had to go on! We took walks on the beach both nights walking through a cave at low tide the last night. There was Wii Dance, movies, junk food, dance parties, a hike to a waterfall, a tour of an old lighthouse, a tour of the Tillamook Cheese Factory and 1 delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner out! It was a blast!

Here is Anson's lovely babysitter (my Cousin Lindsay in my Mom's dress from the 80's), she did such a good job and Anson loves her!

Anson loves hanging with his Grandpa.

7 days is not nearly long enough. The week was jam packed. We got to spend lots of time with my Brothers, my Sissies and their kiddos, which Anson loved being surrounded by so much action. I got to see one of my Girlfriends that I haven't seen in ages and go to my favorite restaurant in the world: Changs Mongolian Grill. Thanks for a fabulous week!

Lots of love! Until next time!

Hello blogging world! Oh how I've missed you!

2011-06-07T18:22:00.000-06:00

Anson and I left Florida on May 5th for 2 1/2 solid weeks on F-U-N! First stop: Arizona to see Papa, Grandma, Uncle Scott, Auntie Nat and Cousins Bailey, Claire and Hazel! It was 11 days full of fun, minus the yucky 48 hour stomach flu that Anson caught and gave to almost the entire family! SAD!

When we arrived in AZ, we went to a delicious dinner with Grandma at Gecko Grill, then it was off to see the cousins! Anson was greeted with excitement and his very own Birthday Crown compliments of Auntie Nat! As you can see, all the girls have one too. Way too cute!

Anson loved Papa and Grandma's house and all the space he had to play! His Cousins were sweet enough to let him borrow their toys while we visited.

Anson loved Grandma's wagon, so there were lots of rides around the neighborhood.

We took a trip to Phoenix Zoo to hang our with Bobbie, Megan, Makoy and Finn!

Anson discovered his love for dirt and rocks while helping Papa repair the sprinkler.

Anson even got in touch with his feminine side and borrowed Hazel's pink shoes while we roasted marshmallows [whistles].

I don't know what could be more fun than playing in the irrigation water in the backyard on a sunny day in undies!

Anson ADORES his Papa and his Grandma too of course, but Papa had to go out of town for a couple days while we were there and Papa had Anson help pack his bag before he left. After Papa was gone, Anson proceeded to go into his room looking for him and calling for him. It was the sweetest thing!

It was a FANTASTIC 11 days. We got to swim and I got to go on a lunch date with my dear friend Erin. I also got to spend a whole day with my friend Sal and an evening with her and her hubby! Grandma, Anson and I lived it up when Papa was out of town, going to "Taco Tuesday" at Cafe Rio and out for our fave chicken strip dinner at Texas Roadhouse. Anson was spoiled with a Birthday celebration put on by his Cousins and we got to have a few yummy dinners at their house as well. I'm grateful to Taylor's Mom who let me get out and about by myself here and there. Also, Nat and I went to a Pie cooking class and I totally won a $70 pie plate which I gave to Nat, because she's awesome (and I don't need 3).

Thanks for a great week! Love you all!

Happy Birthday baby boy!

2011-05-04T14:17:00.001-06:00

Our wonderful friends Mark and Kristi through Anson's 1st Birthday on Sunday and it was soooo much fun! We are grateful to them for making Anson's day very special! The decorations were adorable, the food was delicious and the company was the best! It was fun to surround our little dude with people who love him so much, thank you to all who came for the gifts and for your love for Anson! It was a perfect day for a pool party, complete with grilling and the yummiest cake we've ever eaten compliments of Miss Brittany Anderson!

The Decor

The yummy treats!

Picture time with Mommy!

Time for a swim!

The Birthday Boy! Grandpa Jeff was snapping photos all afternoon long and took Anson over for a little photo session in the grass!

Time to open presents and boy, did he get SPOILED!!

Trying out his new set of wheels! He LOVES this train!

"Happy Birthday to you!!"

Let him eat cake! Anson did not disappoint, he loved his cake A LOT!! Holly sugar high!

Taylor and I have been overwhelmed at the amount of love we have received while we've been here! We will forever be grateful for the time we've had here in South Florida and for the friendships made! Thank you all for your sweetness and most of all thank you for seeing us off in a big way at Anson's first Birthday! You are all the best and we love you lots!!

May 3rd, 2011

We celebrated Anson's actual Birthday in a simple way with dinner out to Carabba's with Brian and Brittany, a balloon, gifts from family and of course a cupcake for the Birthday boy!! Thanks so much Brian and Britt for dinner and for Anson's gifts, he loves his turkey baster, but of course you already know that! It was great way to say bye for now!

Happy Birthday sweet baby!

One of these days, these boots are gonna walk all over you!

2011-04-30T11:07:00.000-06:00

Easter 2011

2011-04-30T10:46:00.002-06:00

Easter this year was a busy and fun one. It was Anson's first after all and so being busy all Sunday long with festivities was very enjoyable. We didn't dye eggs this year, I figured he wouldn't have a clue what was going on anyway. Observe Anson and his Easter gifts.

Despite not having any idea why he was getting gifts, he loves his Farm touch and feel book and he loves his dinosaur puzzle!

We spent the morning in Sacrament meeting, which was a beautiful service filled with music. We ditched out afterwards to have a lovely Easter Brunch with the Anderson's. Don't remember me talking about Taylor's bosses and their wonderful families? Go here, here or here. They are incredible and of course the food was delicious. They are the closest thing we have to family around here and they made for a darn Happy Easter!

Jeff was so sweet and snapped a few photos of our handsome little man in his Sunday best. They turned out real cute and we are so grateful to have such adorable photos to remember Anson's first Easter . Thanks Jeff!

After Brunch, we headed home for about an hour for naps and a change of clothes, then we headed to the Ladles. They are the cutest little family in our ward and we just love 'em! We had a scrumptious ham dinner completed with the MOST AMAZING potatoes I have ever eaten. Heck yes, we went back for seconds! We completed the night with cheesecake, chatting and me dancing around like a crazy person with their adorable daughter Parker. It was a fantastic evening. P.S. Robin has the cutest blog and she's real cute and clever! Check it out here!

What better way to spend Easter than with friends, family and good food? Hope everyone's Easter was equally as fun and Happy!

Hi, my name is Taylor and I'm a fishaholic

2011-04-08T08:42:00.000-06:00

My husband has been disappearing every weekend without fail to go fishing. He is OBSESSED!! What's worse is that he found a couple friends who are equally obsessed. It sure beats the alternative of some other very bad addictions. I'm glad it makes him happy!

Anson: 11 Months

2011-04-07T11:33:00.001-06:00

It's been a great month full of fun for Anson! We traveled to Washington D.C., went to the Zoo, celebrated Anson's first St Patrick's Day and spent lots of time in the pool. Anson is officially a little person. It's so strange to see him stand and WALK around, he took 20 or more steps just the other day. He definitely isn't a little baby anymore.

Anson,

You are such a good kid, you listen well already although, that doesn't mean if Daddy or Mommy tell no that you always listen the first time. You are so aware of everything around you, whether it's birds or planes, you are always observing. You've become very mischievous as of late getting into the toilet that has had pee in it a few times (YUCK), taking all the paper out of the printer, terrorizing Mommy's magazines or books, licking water off of the dishwasher when I'm putting dishes away and intentionally dumping over your basket of socks. Mommy is REALLY GRATEFUL that you have yet to learn how to open the cupboards.

We had such grand adventures this month when we traveled to Washington D.C. and you were the trooper of the century minus waking up at 5:30a.m. every morning!! You took naps in your stroller, ate on the go and adjusted very well to the crib in the hotel room. We got to see and do so much, so thanks for being the GREATEST!

You LOVE to stare at yourself in the mirror. If fact, you could do it all day. You love to sit and talk to yourself, make faces, do tricks for yourself and dance.

Did I mention that we took lots of trips to the pool. You love it! You love to splash and kick and squeal! Daddy and Mommy got you your very own Turtle tube to float around in and while your a little too light for it now (your bum hardly goes in the water), you'll grow into it!

We had successfully weaned you off your binky before we went to D.C., but we may have gone backwards on the trip, because you needed it and you were being so incredible that I just couldn't say no if it was going to make you happy. Mommy is sort of a push over.

Addy is your BESTEST best friend! You adore her and she adores you too even though she has a funny way of showing it (like running away from you, growling at you and snapping at you), she comes up to you and give you kisses and puts up with you patting her and pulling her hair out.

You do some really hilarious things like taste testing your food; you stick your tongue out to the first bite of every meal to make sure you like it before completely opening your mouth. You love to bang on things, hiss and point at things you see. Hissing is funny, because that's what your Daddy and your cousin Claire used to do when they were little and didn't talk very well.

We love you Mr. and don't you forget it! Happy 11 months!

♥, Daddy & Mommy

Zoobers

2011-04-06T09:34:00.001-06:00

Anson and I went to the Palm Beach Zoo a few weeks ago. It was so fun to see his interest in the animals, it was a stark contrast from the time we took him to the Miami Zoo and he had no clue what was going on.

We saw Deer. I'm so excited to go back to Idaho and show them to him in the wild! The Bird clearly has a lot on his mind.

We saw lots of birds!

Some Gators!

Prettiness like this enormous and beautiful tree and a few Peacocks.

And lastly, some Kangaroos.

The little curious cutie!

It was a great morning full of new discoveries! Can't wait to take him again before we leave.

The Barlows & The Andersons go to D.C.

2011-04-02T09:44:00.005-06:00

About a month ago, we got to go to Washington D.C. with our best buddies Brian and Brittany for five days! It was a PARTY!!!

Day one: We arrive and Brittany, Celeste and Anson go to Georgetown, VA while the boys worked. Nevermind that we got lost and almost died on the way there because some stupid man wouldn't let us over! We shopped, had lunch and ate some yummy cupcakes, it was a GRREEAT day!

Out to dinner that night.

Day two: Brittany, Celeste and Anson go tour the Capitol building and the National Museum of Natural History (diamonds people, lots of diamonds). Did we get lost AGAIN? Perhaps. Let's just say that Brittany and I would not win the Amazing race.

I was like a little kid at Christmas time when we pulled into D.C. I have seen the sites all my life in movies, books and pictures, but the real thing is WAY BETTER!! Britt was laughing her head off at me. The guards at the capitol tried to make us throw away our matching $14 water bottles, it wasn't happening. We hiked to our state building to store them there (long story) and BONUS, we got tickets to see the house and senate in session! We met up with the boys for a delicious dinner at Sweetwater in VA. It was an awesome way to end a wonderful day!

P.S. Sorry Mr. Man who was breathing down my neck at the museum while we were in the diamond gallery for telling you to get out of my personal bubble. You were kind of freaking me out with your lack of respect for personal space. I really didn't meant to be rude.

Day 3: The Barlows and The Andersons power tour D.C. We saw the Arlington cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Wall of Tears, the white house(drive by) and the National Museum of American History. We ended our day at Martin's Tavern where almost every President has eaten and where J.F.K proposed to Jackie.

Sometimes, when I get really excited, I jump around and I look like this. SPAZZ.
Enough said.

Day 4: it rained, so we toured a wine vineyard and after Brain, Britt and Kyle had a wine tasting, we played Cranium! We also went to Wegman's, it's probably the most amazing grocery store I've ever seen. You should go.

The phantom Brian! This is the only picture of him because he was kind enough to take on the roll of photographer!

Day 5: Time to say Good Bye! We ended our fabulous vacation at the Air and Space Museum in Dulles, the space section was my fave!

Thanks Brian and Britt for being the BEST TOUR GUIDES EVER and for being the AWESOMEST travel partners!!

Anson the DESTROYER!

2011-03-30T08:02:00.000-06:00

Yep, Anson is a definitely a boy. Utter destruction comes to anything in his path...Observe:

Anson decided that it would be a good idea to use the lamp as a prop to keep him steady while standing. Didn't really work out.

The smile says it all.

These boots are made for walkin'

2011-03-29T09:19:00.001-06:00

Show off

2011-03-25T07:59:00.000-06:00

That's right, Anson can reach the t.v. button and proceeds to turn it on and off all day. Mostly he likes it on.

New Fave

2011-03-20T14:47:00.000-06:00

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-18T06:44:00.003-06:00

What would a holiday be without a party with the Andersen's?!? It's a Stor-all tradition on St. Patty's Day to close the office early and go to a local pub called Halloways in Boca Raton to celebrate. There were of course lots of necklaces and hats, corn beef and cabbage, corn beef sandwiches and Shepard's pie! While everyone drank green beer, Taylor and I had some green sprite. It was a super fun way to celebrate our Irish heritage!

Traditional Irish Dancers wearing costumes made in Ireland. Their legs have to be in super good shape from all the river dancing, because my legs hurt just watching them.

Hangin with Brian, Britt, Jack, Kristi and Lisa.

Anson as Leprechaun Sam and Leprechaun Sue!

Loves from Grandma Pattie.

The Barlows

Happy St. Patrick's Day to all! Hope you didn't get pinched for not wearing green!

Clueless

2011-03-17T12:49:00.001-06:00

I think the theory that we women have Motherly instincts in a bunch of bull, because I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I'M DOING half the time. I'm just blindly doing what I think is right and hoping for the best. Poor, poor Anson, he is paving the way for his future siblings. Maybe I'll have it down by the second or third child... I can only hope. Why do you think that every Mom parents differently? Why does every Mom have a different opinion and think hers is the right one? The answer is that we are just doing the best we can and we have hope that what has worked for us will work for others, but that's usually not the case. I have close friends and family whom I trust though, thank goodness, otherwise I may not have survived the first week!

Then there are the books and the research which changes or updates EVERY SECOND to make our journey as Mothers even MORE confusing and that make us feel like we're dumb for not parenting that way or this way. Sometimes, people that do the research or write the books aren't even parents. HAH! Do us all a favor and keep your opinions to yourself will ya!? That's the thing though, if we don't have books or research, we have nothing to use as a reference, so maybe we should have those things. It does make the process of Motherhood difficult at times because there are so many options, but it really can help too.

And as if it couldn't get harder, every SINGLE pediatrician out there has a different opinion, trust me I've been to 3 in that last 10 and 1/2 months and I assure you that I have liked them or disliked them for different reasons. Didn't they all learn the same thing at school?! I guess just find one you like and hang on to them for dear life. Thank goodness I found one here in FL that I LOVE and I have one in Idaho that's WONDERFUL as well.

At any rate, some days I feel like I'm a great Mom and others I feel like I'm terrible, like when I get mad or frustrated or when I've had no sleep so I loose my patience easily. I can only hope that I do right by Anson and that he grows into a responsible member of society.

That's all.

Anson: 10 Months

2011-03-12T08:32:00.001-07:00

It's been yet another month of growth and milestones for our little man. He sure brings us a lot of joy! Just two more months and he will be a year old. I really never believed people when they told me that time flies with children until now! He really is the best and I couldn't imagine our lives without him.

Anson Pants,

You have a become a little man with some major personality and nothing makes you happier than crawling and playing on the floor. You are still on the path to discover and taste everything in sight; whether it's leafs that come in from outside, Addy's collar and leash or Daddy and Mommy's shoes (yuck), nothing seems to taste gross so far. You love to play independently most of the time, but you are always game for Mom or Dad to crawl around the floor with you. You love to go for walks and torment Addy, you also love reading books, but only when you're just tired enough to sit still. Your favorite book is "Doggies" by Sandra Boynton, it's one that your Aunty Lauren got you for Christmas (Thank you).

You have sampled all kinds of new snacks this month and graham crackers are your favorite! You also like cantaloupe and bananas. You get really frustrated when you have fruit on your tray because it slips around everywhere, so sometimes you just give up on using your hands and do this:

You fell asleep in your booster seat for the first time and thankfully I had the camera and was able to catch this adorable and hilarious moment.

You are quite thrilled with yourself that you can fake cough and you think it's the greatest when Mommy does it back.

You are cruising along the furniture and that means knocking anything down that Mommy or Daddy leave within your reach. You have two teeth now and you love you show them off. When you got your first tooth, you refused to even let us get a good look at it and now you are flashing those pearly whites any chance you get.

You LOVE to dance to anything musical even it's just a beat that Mommy is drumming on the table and it's pretty much the cutest ever, but let's face it, Mommy and Daddy think everything you do it the cutest! Anson, Anson, Anson! Anson Machine (this is my version of Jackson 5's Dancing Machine).

We love you buddy, you are getting more and more fun by the day, keep the laughs coming!

♥, Daddy & Mommy

Who the heck is Taylor?

2011-02-27T11:25:00.001-07:00

Okay let's face it, aside from pictures of Taylor with Anson and myself, I don't do many updates about my Hubby very often. It's not because I don't like him, because I sorta do, but this is my blog--my journal of sorts.

Well, because family and friends do read this, I decided that it would be a good idea to update everyone on how Taylor is and what he's up to, because he's pretty important too.

Taylor LOVES Florida and can you guess why?

Taylor has fishing down in Idaho, but fishing in Florida is a whole new ball game and he is head over heels.

So much so that he just HAD to buy one of these to have the ability to catch things like...

This. Pretty ugly right? This is a Tarpon and it has been around since the time of dinosaurs.

So that's Taylor. When he's not working or helping me with Anson, he eats, drinks, and breaths fishing.

Biscanyne Bay

2011-02-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

Taylor isn't exactly what you would call a romantic. Laat Sunday though, he surprised me with an idea he had for the afternoon. A boat float in Biscanyne Bay to one of the islands to have a picnic. What a sweetie.

Daddy and Anson. I adore Anson's life jacket, he is unfortunately not a fan.

Pictures of Mommy and Anson?!?!?! Can it be true?!?! This never happens unless I'm taking them myself!

Our little man munching on a wheat thin. What a big kid!

Walking around one of the islands. We found an animal on our walk that looked like a piece of poo. Literally. Had it not started moving, I would have thought that's all it was...

Love him!

It was a good day--the view of Miami was incredible, my back got fried and I got a nap on the way home.

Garlicfest

2011-02-23T07:23:00.000-07:00

Sounds gross right? Well, the kettlecorn, music and rides were anything but gross. And may I say, the food smelled delicious, but we passed on that.

If any of you have ever been to Victor, ID on the 4th of July or to downtown Portland's Saturday Market, the Garlicfest was pretty much a glorified version of one of those only they are free and this cost $10 to get in. It had tents upon tents of jewelry, spices, trinkets and pretty much anything homemade you can think of and tons of food vendors. What set the Garlicfest apart was the array of rides and carnival games and the live bands! We had a great time!

Super excited to be out doing something fun as a family! The kettlecorn was AMAZING!!!

The many faces of Taylor...at least we got some picture together right?!?

I forget what this ride was called, but is went up and down in circles really fast and it made me nauseous! I used to be able to ride things like this for hours--not anymore! I hate getting older!

That is one tuckered out little man!

What a great night in downtown Delray!

♥ Lovers Day ♥

2011-02-18T10:10:00.002-07:00

This Valentines Day was slightly nuts.

Taylor had to pick up his new boat which was in a city 2 and 1/2 hours away. He had no clue when it would be done--possibly not until close at 5, which would put him home at 7:30. Or it could get done early and he could be home by 6. So I had a babysitter and a date with my hubby, but no reservation for dinner and no time to give the babysitter. My anxiety level was through the roof.

Taylor finally got home at 7:30 and we headed to Kristi and Mark's to drop Anson off. Of course a semi truck had tipped over, so traffic was at a dead stop and I'm thinking "this date is just not supposed to happen for us." We finally got Anson dropped off and headed to PF Changs for dinner (we've both never been).

We had to wait for an hour and a half. That's right people. We were starving by the time we were finally seated at 9:30 and once our depleted energy was brought back up by some egg rolls, we had a great time together. The food was delicious and the company wasn't bad either!! ;-)

Came back to our baby sleeping on a couch cushion on the floor--it was darling. He had so much fun with Auntie Kristi, Uncle Mark, Grandma Pattie and Grandpa Jeff.

All in all it was a great night, sort of a headache, but totally worth it to have a night alone with my VERY fabulous Hubby!

Happy Valentines to all!

Toof

2011-02-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Tooth Fairy,

I got my first tooth on February 6th and another one is coming soon. I know you can't see it well in this photo, but it's there, trust me. So you better be ready with some change--you feel me? Thanks.

Love, Anson

Crash and burn

2011-02-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

With Standing, comes crashing and with crashing comes bruises.

See that dark mark on my baby's sweet cheek? Yep, that's his first bruise. One of many to come I'm sure.

Anson: 9 Months

2011-02-11T10:19:00.003-07:00

Anson's 9 Month Stats: Height 28 3/4inches (65th percentile) Weight 16lbs 12oz (3rd percentile). He may be a skinny little man, but there is a lot of him to love!!

This has been a month of milestones and it's quite astounding to me that our little boy is just 3 months shy of a year. Crazy how time flies.

Anson,

You have achieved so much this month, I can hardly believe it! You are definitely your own man and you are going to keep us on our toes--you are stubborn (sorry to admit that you got that trait from me), you always want to do things yourself whether it's hold your own bottle (last month you refused), putting your binky in your mouth or holding your own sippy cup. You haven't quite figured out how to tip your cup up enough to actually get anything out of it, but you'll get it soon enough. You amaze Mom and Dad with how quickly you figure things out-- at the end of last month you were scooting backwards and in circles and then you started scooting forward for just a week and now look at you!

You are crawling like a mad man and there is no stopping you!

And crawling means...

That you get yourself stuck in all sort of compromising positions and get into EVERYTHING!!! Mommy is doomed when you figure out how to open the cupboards. You love the bathroom, because there are all sorts of discoveries to be made and things to be eaten in there--like your diaper sprayer hose and toilet paper. Mommy has to vacuum every other day, because you will eat anything and everything you find on the floor. You will dig and rake at it until you get it and into the mouth it goes.

After crawling for just three weeks, you figured out how to pull yourself up onto furniture and STAND! See the look on your face in these pictures? You are so proud of yourself and we're proud of you too.

The combination of crawling and standing up on things means even more MISCHIEF, which means there are blockades in front of the printer, as well as the cable and wireless box. Standing also means that you have discovered the electrical outlets and you could give a rip about the actual outlet, you just want the covers! They are scattered all over the house. Thanks buddy.

One of Mommy's favorite things to do is get you dressed up for church, I just love your little sweaters and polo shirts! Wait until you get a bit bigger, because little do you know that you have sweater vests and corduroys up the ying yang!

Papa and Grandma Barlow came to visit us this month and you just LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them!! One of your favorite things is when Papa gets on the floor and plays with you. Sadly, you got sick for the first time this month too and it was during their visit. Luckily Grandma was here, because she helped Mommy take the BEST care of you!

We hang out with Uncle Brian and Aunty Britt quite frequently and they ADORE the heck out you! They love babysitting you and taking the cutest photos of you. I have to give you a high five for convincing Uncle Brian that it's time to start a family!! Yay you for being such a good baby and helping him realize that it's not that SCARY!

Night time has become your and Daddy's time. He plays with you and takes care of you every night before you go to bed. You never disappoint him with the excited expression you have on your face when he walks through the door--you are THRILLED every single night!

It's been really HOT here lately and that means lots of hats and shorts and even better--LOTS OF POOL TIME!!!! You love to crawl across the top step and stand up to the side and on the second step. You love to splash around and eat every leaf that has fallen in the water. You crazy kid!

Thank you for being the most amazingly happy kid on the planet. You are the best and we love you like crazy! Can't wait to see what next months brings! Walking maybe?

♥, Daddy & Mommy

Ironic

2011-02-07T15:19:00.002-07:00

I miss this...

And these...

And this...

Basically what I'm saying is that I'm homesick. While Florida has been wonderful and great friendships have been made that will last forever--it seems unnatural to my body to have constant sun. I need me some snow and some skiing!!!! What's ironic is that if you'd talked to me two years ago, I would have told you that I HATE Idaho. Amazing how having a child (who you want only the best for) and a place to call your own will dramatically change things. Idaho, I look forward to seeing you SOON!

For now, I will try to make our time here an adventure.

Take Note...

2011-02-07T14:47:00.000-07:00

To all you Moms and future Moms out there-

Electric outlet covers do NO GOOD if your 9 month old can pull them right off.

My 9 month old has made them his new favorite toy...AWESOME!

Time to try a different brand.

Bliss

2011-02-02T13:09:00.000-07:00

After wasting the morning away with dance parties to Veggietales radio on Pandora, bath time, playing on the floor and making a certain handsome boy giggle all the while, I sit here as my sweet baby sleeps and know that my life is truly rich.

Boogers

2011-01-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is what that night stand of a Mom with a sick baby looks like.

101.6 temperature = trip to the pediatrician.

tylenol,

wipe nose,

snuggle,

drain nose,

take temperature,

nap,

advil,

repeat.

I should feel lucky that we made it 8 months before Anson got sick for the first time and I do,

but that doesn't mean I wasn't sad for him.

So GLAD he's feeling better!

P.S. It also doesn't mean that I'm not exhausted from being up off and on all night for a week.

And so life goes on as it always does for a Mommy.

Now to just get rid of his rash once and for all!!

Bum thingy

2011-01-23T09:47:00.001-07:00

Dear bum disease,

After 11 weeks of setting up shop on my Son's bottom, I would like you to go away. You have caused quite a ruckus. First we thought you were ringworm, then a yeast infection and then exyma. I have used anti fungal cream, anti yeast cream, desatin, remond's clay (cloth diaper freindly), browned flour (home remedy) and hydro-cortisone and you are still not gone. I had to take Anson to see two different pediatricians, I had to stop feeding him solids accept for oatmeal for a week to determine if it was food induced. Now I'm just done and so is the pediatrician and it has been determined that your aren't going away because my Son has very sensitive skin and that no certain brand of diapers is going to conquer you. So I've ordered a cloth diaper friendly cream, so that I can use my cloth diapers full time since you have also prevented me from doing that and I am going to suffocate you. You have been invincible for almost 3 months and I'm here to say that you will not survive for long! I am going to keep Anson's bum so covered in cream that you will have no choice, but to go away!! Thank you and goodbye.

Regards,
Mrs. Barlow

Anson: 8 months

2011-01-23T09:17:00.003-07:00

So Anson will be 9 months in a week and a half. That's not the point. At least I'm updating right?! Most of this month was eaten up by the holidays and most of the pictures were taken then. Needless to say, I don't have a lot of them.

I had to stop nursing Anson shortly after Christmas, because my milk was drying up. It was sad and now I really know what other Moms meant when they say they miss it. It's something that's hard to comprehend until you experience it. On the plus side though, ANSON IS SLEEPING THROUGH THE NIGHT!!!! He goes to bed at 8:30, eats at 11 and then sleeps until 7:30 (Hallelujah)!!!!! It's really been fabulous and he is so much happier (if that is even possible).

Anson is a whopping 16lbs!! He is happiest when he wakes up in the morning and from naps. He still loves to play on the floor, especially with all of his new toys! He loves his keys that make car noises, his squeezable, chewable rubber blocks (who wouldn't love those?), his stack and roll cups and all the necklaces that we kept from the new years celebration! He still loves to cuddle (thank heaven) and he loves anything to do with kisses. We kiss him or blow kisses or have one of his stuffed animals give him a kiss and he always smiles or laughs. It's the sweetest thing!

Dear Anson,

It's been a big month kiddo and you have been such a good boy and so easy going with all the Christmas parties and celebrations and vacations. Thank you! It was so fun to take you to Orlando to play with your Aunty Lisa and then to take you to Portland to see your Grandparents and all of your cousins. I loved taking you to see Santa for the first time, you were so good and not even a little bit scared of him! It will be fun to create new traditions with you as you get older.

Your first Christmas was a blast, your Daddy and I were so excited and although you weren't sure what was going on, you looked surprising excited each time you opened a new gift. We loved reading the Christmas story with on Christmas Eve and can't wait for what the future will bring in Christmases to come!

While you love to snuggle and you're super easy going, you have a mind that's all your own. You totally know how to hold your bottle and these pictures prove it, but this was the one and only time you actually did. You refuse to do it, because you just don't want to. Just because you have a skill, doesn't mean you have to use it right?!? You're already doing a great job at being a boy. Secretly though, Mommy loves that I can still hold your bottle for you, because it gives us a chance to snuggle and bond and take a break from the craziness of the day.

Your new found mobility invigorates you! You love that you can get anywhere you want to go just by rolling or scooting to it. I can already tell that you are going to get into some mischief when you start crawling and that you are going to give Mommy and Daddy a run for our money.

You can sit up totally unsupported without any supervision now. Of course you still tumble from time to time, but that's only when you try to grab something at an awkward angle.

You are the king as far as little kids and stores are concerned, I know that you're still young and that meltdowns could (will) be in your future, but for now you are always mellow and content to people watch the day away. Speaking of people watching, you love to flirt. You use those big blue eyes and smile to your advantage.

You started babbling this month, you temporarily started waving to yourself and you discovered your ability to scream (thanks Dad for teaching me). I enjoyed blasting, singing and dancing to Christmas music with you all month long. You love being read to and I try to read to you each day and thanks to Aunt Lauren, Natalie, Papa and Grandma Barlow and Aunt Lisa, you have piles of books to read!

Thank you for being you Anson, you light up our lives and our hearts are bursting with love for you. Thank you for being content to ride along anywhere and everywhere whether in planes or automobiles, you are so laid back and that makes Mommy and Daddy's life much easier. Thank you for loving us and thank you for being the sweetest! We love you Dude!!

Love, Daddy & Mommy

Happy New Year 2011!

2011-01-19T14:36:00.002-07:00

I spent the morning and on into the afternoon with Lisa and Kristi (Taylor's boss Jeff's daughters) making desserts for the party that evening. We made eclairs, cupcakes with edible gold stars, coconut macaroons and mini pecan tarts. It was such a fun afternoon, I absolutely LOVE the girls!

News years was a party and a half! We went over to Jeff and Pattie's and when they said heavy appetizers, they meant enough to feed you dinner! We kind of regretted going to Chipotle beforehand with Brian and Brittany. Man, do the Anderson's know how to party! There were all sorts of New Years hats, gold, silver and flashing necklaces, poppers, balloons and party whistles! It was fun evening!

This is my new bff Britt. We clicked instantly and I love, love, love her!

Here's Taylor and I with Kristi, Lisa and Britt! We all get along so well and I am grateful for each and every friendship that we've have made here!

We stayed at Jeff and Pattie's until 1:30 a.m. and what does that spell? EXHAUSTED! We were up until 3a.m. once we got all settled at home. Taylor and I are just not cut out for being up that late anymore--man we're old! Also, Anson is not pictured because we brought his pak n' play and he slept the ENTIRE night, so we basically had a night off (insert hallelujah chorus here).

Happy 2011!!! Hope everyone has a FANTASTIC year!!

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

2011-01-19T14:00:00.004-07:00

Okay, so I'm a little behind--what of it?!

I was more than a little sad that we couldn't spend Christmas with my family and that we would spending it alone. The family that Taylor works for have quite literally welcomed us like family with arms open wide and ready to do anything they can for us. Even invite us to their intimate family gathering at a fabulous restaurant called Cafe Maxx on Christmas Eve, followed by a big Turkey dinner on Christmas Day. So much for being alone eh? Quite far from it--we had a great holiday and feel very comfortable here in Florida and with our new family. They have been so great to us and they are the reason that it will be bitter/sweet when we move back to Idaho.

Christmas Eve

Here we are at Cafe Maxx. It was fun to get all dressed up. The food was DELICIOUS to say the least. I have never had such a delicious meal while dining out before in my life! We both started with a salad and then for our entree I had peppercorn fillet mignon with scalloped potatoes and Taylor had sweet onion red snapper. For desert I had Chocolate souffle with ice cream, which was to die for!! Needless to say, I was glad I was wearing an a-line dress, because I felt like I was going to explode after that meal! Taylor passed on dessert, so he was in way better shape.

Here is John already taking on the role of Uncle quite well by giving Anson rock candy. Anson LOVED it!

Here is Anson with Grandma Pattie. Anson was seriously the life of the party, everyone was so happy to have him there. It's fun to have everyone argue over who gets to hold him next, they just love him to pieces!

Christmas Day

Santa Came!!!!!!!

Before we opened presents, I made us a yummy breakfast of scrambled eggs with onions, bacon and pancakes fried in bacon grease. It was divine!

Anson was SPOILED, SPOILED, SPOILED!! A few items are even missing from this photo--WOW! Thank you everyone!!!

Taylor and I were spoiled as well. We got anything and everything we needed and wanted. Thanks to all!!

After presents and getting ready, we headed over to Brian and Brittany's house (Taylor's boss Larry's son and Daughter in-law and my new bff) for more gift exchanging.

Then it was on to Jeff and Pattie's house for dinner and yes, more gift exchanging! It was oh so fun! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Here is Anson with Lisa and Bo (Jeff's Daughter and Son In-law), again with Grandma Pattie and then Kristi and I. It was a great couple of days and we are so grateful for the warmth and love we have received!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday!!

An early Christmas gift. ♥

2011-01-18T13:52:00.004-07:00

It was my family's year for Christmas and because of Taylor's job, we couldn't go. :-(

So my Parents flew Anson and I home for a week to have an early Christmas! It was a week full of fun--crafts, birthdays and just being together!! It was just what the doctor ordered to cure my Melancholy!

It rained a lot, but what is Oregon without rain? I loved it! Here are some of the highlights from our trip:

Anson was of course, loved and cuddled by all!

I got in touch with my crafty side (which NEVER happens) and decided to call this a homemade Christmas! I made a Christmas note tree for Taylor's Sister Natalie and her family (similar to the one pictured), I made an Apron for my Sissy pants and I made a photo calender for my parents! I am proud to say that I sewed every bit of these projects (aside form the photo calender cause we all know that isn't possible), which is kind of a big deal! I'm rather proud of my work! And as is the classic Celestial way, I gave all our Christmas gifts early because I just HAD to see the looks on everyone's faces!!

We had family photos taken (it has been 7 years and my Mom just couldn't wait anymore)--Taylor was missed! It poured the entire time. And what cures a group of people after freezing to death and getting wet?

A big family dinner of course! My Parents put on an early Christmas Eve dinner with all the trimmings just because Anson and I were in town and they didn't want us to miss out! Thanks Daddy and Mama!!

And what's a Poulsen family gathering without a soda run? It's not one! So here's a pic of my B (Brother Travis) and I on the said soda run!

Followed by a big Birthday bash for the one and only Chaney Nicole who turned 7!

And here's a little smattering of cuteness, just for good measure!

The end!

Party in the U.S.A.

2011-01-08T19:53:00.005-07:00

My SISSY PANTS and BEST FRIEND came to visit us and we had the most dance party packed, fun filled & spazzy 3 1/2 days ever!! Who is my Sissy Pants you ask? Only the prettiest, funnest, most amazing woman on the Planet: MY SISTER LISA!! A brief history: Lisa is married to my Brother Jason, but she has been in my life since I was 11 and so I figure after 14 years, the in-law gets canceled out. So therefore, she is my Sister.

When Lisa walked through the door, we had a little spaz of excitement session, followed by a dance party on our way to walmart. When we got home, we had a really fun time making fun of the swishy pants suit that her Aunt gave her (she visited her Aunt, Uncle and Grandma in Melbourne, FL before she came to my house). I know that you know what kind of suit I'm talking about, the kind that was popular in 1990 maybe? Well, I proceeded to put it on and swish around our one bedroom apartment as fast as I could and well, we almost peed from laughing so hard. My husband of course was looking at me like I was nuts (curmudgeon). This was just the first night mind you and it was already supercalafragelisticexpealladocious!

Saturday: Yellowgreen Farmer's Market for fun and food, followed by the mall where 100 ornaments were purchased for $15 (whoop, whoop), then off to the grocery store to get a gingerbread house, followed by going out to dinner, building our gingerbread house and to end our day, we watched Eclipse.

I will tell the rest of the story with pictures, because they are more fun than words...

"Flosser pose" at the Yellowgreen Farmer's Market. Yep, we were in public and all the people were pretty jealous that they couldn't be as awesome as we are. We all have to dig food out of our teeth once in a while, so why not be fabulous while doing it?

Bestie Lovin.

Dinner at the Keylime house--the food was mediocre at best, but the keylime pie was OUT OF THIS WORLD!!!

The gingerbread house of horror. When all else fails, just make a wall of frosting and start chucking your candy at it.

Sunday: took our sweet time getting ready for the day and then drove to Orlando separately because Lisa accidentally booked the rental car in Boca Raton (town 5 minutes away from me)...WHOOPS!! Fast forward 3 hours at 90 miles an hour later, we're there!!! We stayed at Lisa's Dad's BEAUTIFUL condo, but before there was bed, there was Wendy's and Downtown Disney!

But first: the swishy pants!

Goofy's Candy Co: one outrageously delicious carmel/milk chocolate/almond covered/dark chocolate drizzled apple purchased. Done and done!!

Also at Goofy's Candy Co. The most hilarious funhouse mirror ever created. When I grow up, I want one of these in my house!!

Monday: the goal was to eat anything and everything delicious in sight and to take as many awesome pictures as possible and we totally accomplished that! Plus we had a good ol' time at the Disney resorts and again at Downtown Disney!

Let the MAGIC BEGIN!!!!

If you call catching a turd or giving a bum squeeze magic, then whatever. We do.

First stop: a life size gingerbread house inside the Victorian Resort. Yep it's all edible and smells delicious!

Following the Gingerbread house, we went to get a dole whip which is whipped pineapple and vanilla soft serve at the Polynesian Resort. Anson approved.

Then we went to Downtown Disney where I bought Anson's stocking and his first ornament!! Afterward, we went around taking pictures of everything in sight and stopped for an amazing dinner (which we shared) at the Dinosaur Cafe.

Our last stop of the day was at the Beaches Resort. This is a life size carousel made of gingerbread. All the horses are made of white and milk chocolate.

To end our day of engorgement, we had the world's best banana split at Beaches and Cream!!! And yes we ate it all and we didn't even feel sick, nor did we feel bad about it.

Side note: we were wearing all of layers because it was stinking FREEZING and when we checked the weather report in Oregon which is where we were headed next, Oregon was warmer!! I'm not even talking just a little chilly, it was jaw chattering cold. The wind was BITTER! Orlando in NOT supposed to be that cold. Thank heaven I brought scarfs and hats or we would have been in trouble!

All in all, it was SUPEREST weekend ever!!

Love you Sissy Face!!

The Breakers.Thanksgiving.Isla Mirada

2010-12-30T13:18:00.001-07:00

Taylor's parents came to visit us and spend the Thanksgiving holiday. They are pretty much the best! It was a low key visit, we hung out around the house a lot while Taylor was at work. Mom and Dad Barlow just wanted to soak up every second that they could with their Grandson and it's so sweet to watch. They are always so conscious of little Anson and his schedule and I appreciate it so much. Despite our efforts, Anson was on a sleep strike for that week. Little booger.

Thanksgiving Day was lovely. We took an afternoon drive down the A1A to admire all of beautiful houses and they weren't just beautiful, they were enormous!!! Honestly, they were lovely homes, but who needs houses that large? It's fun to dream of what life would be like. We took the A1A to West Palm Beach, where we stopped at The Breakers. The Breakers is on old hotel right on the water with a lot of history, it's burned down twice and been rebuilt! Now that's dedication! Mom and I wondered through the hotel to enjoy the ambiance and walk through the ballrooms. We fantasized about what it would have been like to live in the 16 and 1700's wearing corsets and ballgowns, going to balls and having your every whim attended to. DREAMY!! Of course the boys just sat on a couch in the middle of the hotel on their iphones--curmudgeons! All in all, it was a great afternoon.

Thanksgiving dinner was of course, DELICIOUS!! We enjoyed the usual prospects: Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, bread and my Mom's 7up jello salad. We wended the night with mixed berry pie and ice cream!!!

ISLE MIRADA

We jetted down to the Florida Keys for a quick trip so that boys could rent a boat and do some fishing. The night before the said fishing trip, Dad Barlow hooked a tarpon, but it broke his line and he got away. Super cool experience though! Unfortunately, they didn't catch anything the next day either. Mom Barlow and I got to go for a ride on the boat, which was beautiful and then we got to visit the GINORMOUS tarpon at the shop where they rented the boat. We had some delicious seafood on our way home, it was so good that I hardly came up for air!!

I think his hat is a little small...

O Captain, my Captain. Wipe that smile right off your face! I think someone was born to be on the some body of water fishing for the rest of his life. He's like a little kid in a candy store.

The girls.

The tarpon, the co-pilot and some pelicans. All pretty awesome!

What a great 10 days with the Barlows! Thanks Mom and Dad B for being wonderful and for not allowing us to spend Thanksgiving alone!! We love you!

Anson: 7 Months

2010-12-08T18:31:00.001-07:00

It is our little Boy's 7 month Birthday, five days late! He is already so different from last month, it's so fun to watch him change literally everyday! I love teaching him new things and watching him get the hang of them.

Anson is happiest when he first wakes up in the morning--he loves to play on the floor after breakfast with his toys and talk and roll around. He is at his best when he is well rested, which he fights way more than he used to, when he has a full tummy and when we are making him laugh or cuddling with him.

Anson loves his play mat, rattles, balls, plush blocks, plastic water bottles and anything that makes noise like wipes packages and the wings of his butterfly toy. He also loves to bounce, kick and barrel roll all over the room. He is definitely mobile now, he's army crawling backwards and in circles, he even got up on his hands and knees for a few seconds. He is sitting up unsupported for longer and longer spurts each day. Anson has found his voice and loves to hear it, so he talks and fake coughs--it's hilarious!

Anson,

You are an incredible little boy and we love you like A LOT. The joy that you bring to your Daddy and I is indescribable. Sometimes I look at you and talk to you and tears fill my eyes because I am so grateful that you are ours.

Your boppy helps support you and you're SO CLOSE to sitting up without any pillows or help at all. It's a whole new view of the world for you.

You love playing on the floor more than anything because you're free to kick and role to your heart's content. You LOVE your toys, but when they get boring you love to play with the most random things, especially Mommy's water bottle because it's so brightly colored and the wipespackage because it's so noisy. When the package crackles, you get so excited and kick your legs like crazy!

You briefly sucked your thumb and eventhough I didn't want you to pick up the habit, it was still so cute to watch you do it. We had a bit of a cold front come in this month and so I got to dress you in all your warm clothes that you've never worn. My favorite is your kimono with the helicopters on it, you look adorable in anything though.

For the first few months of your life, your Daddy was at home working on the house and then guiding off and on during the summer. Now he works five days a week for 10 hours a day and so he is so sad to leave you in the mornings and so excited to see you when he comes home. He likes to snuggle and play with you every night when he comes home. You light up when he walks through the door and you get a big smile on your face.

We learned our lesson at the beach last month and it's kind of a hassle to get you in and out of the water and all sandy and you don't really like it anyway. This time we just laid you on a towel under an umbrella and you were as happy as can be.

You taught yourself to blow raspberries with your lips, but Mommy taught you how to spit with your tongue and to my dismay, you love to do when you eat and get food everywhere!! I can't be mad though, because I taught you how to do it and it's super funny.

You are such a doll Anson. You are so enagaging and the most lovable little boy ever--You lure everyone in with your big blue eyes and endearing smile. Your dimples are to die for and we can't get enough of them. Thank you for always being such a good boy and for loving us so much, we couldn't ask for a sweeter or more beautiful baby. Love you always!

Love, Mommy & Daddy

A & A

2010-12-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Addy,

I have no clue that you are not interested in playing with me and you want to stay as far away from me as possible..

Little do you know that I will be crawling soon and you won't be able to escape me!! Bahahahaha!

Love, Anson

Life's a ZOO

2010-12-02T13:35:00.000-07:00

We went to the Miami Zoo.

Tigers Talked.

Elephants preformed for food.

Camels drooled.

We fed the Giraffes.

It was a fab day.

Anson: 6 Months

2010-11-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am way behind AGAIN! Promise that his 7th Month post will come at the end of this week when he turns 7 months!

6 Months Stats: Weight:14lbs 10oz Height: 26inches

Dear Anson,

Most of your 6th month was spent traveling to Arizona, Southern California and then we moved to Florida for Daddy's job. Through it all, you were amazing! You are such an angel, you're always on your best behavior when I'm most concerned that you"ll have a hard time. We had a blast with Daddy's family in California and we're starting to get settled in Florida. You had a really hard time getting back on your schedule with the 3 hour time change, but you did surprisingly well for how exhausted you were. You are growing so quickly, changing everyday.

We introduced you to veggies this month and probably a bit prematurely, but we are new at this and we're still learning. You are so patient with us and no one would ever know that you had constipation or any discomfort, because you are so content. You took to veggies quite well, you love carrots and peas, but squash hurts your tummy and you do not like sweet potatoes. Your appetite is steadily growing and you're packing on the pounds! It's amazing to watch you grow into a little boy.

You met your Granny for the first time (you met Grampy back in July at Deer Springs) and the joy that you brought to her was sweet to see. She loves you so much and you loved her instantly.

We took you to the beach for the first time. You didn't like the water or the sand much much, so needless to say, we don't take you there very often.

You have some crazy hair and your Daddy LOVES it! He yells at me if I gel it down. I just leave it now, because you are cute the way you are, no need for gel.

You are rolling like crazy, anxious to discover the world around you. You are so close to sitting up on your and we practice everyday. You love it when we snort at you and you are giggling and smiling all the time. You have the funniest stretch that you do when you wake up in the morning and from naps that I have yet to capture on film. You stretch your legs and arms up and out as far as they will go and push your belly out, it makes me laugh every time! You love to to be read and sang to and I try to read a book everyday and I sing to you every night before bed. You've started singing back to me sometimes and it is the sweetest sound that I've ever heard!

Thank you are being such an good little boy. You really do have a sweet temperament and you are more than Mommy and Daddy could have ever dreamed! We feel so blessed to have you! We love you so much!

Love,
Daddy & Mommy

So-Cal

2010-11-07T19:52:00.001-07:00

Taylor's family + gorgeous condo + Seaworld + Disneyland = BEST WEEK EVER!!!!!

So watching Taylor's Dad with Anson is quite possibly the cutest thing on the planet!

Bailey, Claire and Hazel LOVE Anson and he adores them. It was so fun that they couldn't get enough of holding and playing with him!

It was a brief time in the pool, but getting him dressed in his swimming outfit made in worth every second! Pretty much the cutest monkey on the block! The pool area was beautiful!

Seaworld was fantastic, but I mostly enjoyed hanging with the stingrays, Shamu and the dolphins. Let's be honest though, the dolphin show makes Shamu look like a junk show. Also, watching Mom # 2/Grandma snuggle Anson was one of the highlights. Anson LOVES his Grandma!

Dear Disneyland, the Halloween party was fantastic. Thank you for letting my nieces and son get dressed up and for loading our buckets and bags with candy (which we're still eating), for the dazzling parade quickly followed by the most spectacular firework show that I've ever seen! I will bring my kids back when I actually have kid(s) and they are older and can enjoy it.

Disney Day #2

I quite enjoyed reliving my childhood. I haven't been to Disneyland since I was 5 years old, so this was the BEST 25th Birthday present. I rode every ride that I could get my Nieces, Natalie or Mom #2 on. The teacups were just as great as I remember, accept that it felt more complete this time with my nieces laughing their brains out as we spinned as fast as we could. I don't really remember the nauseous feeling afterward though, so you can keep that Walt. I know Anson didn't have a clue what was going on, but I still had fun showing him the park, getting a picture with every character we could (where there wasn't an INSANE line) and getting him a stuffed Mickey that was of course Halloween themed at the end.

First, thank you Mom and Natalie for working your buns off and getting us all free passes into Disneyland and thank you Seaworld employee for letting me use Lauren's pass so that we could get in free there as well!! Thanks family for the party of Anson's and my life! Thank you for the delicious food, the lovely accommodations and all the love and help with Anson! Love you guys! It was such a blast and I hope that we can go on another trip like it sometime soon!!!

Side note: Taylor's parents hauled Anson and all of our crap to Arizona pre Southern Cal, then to So-Cal and then Taylor's Dad hauled us to Florida--talk about the best Parents and Grandparents ever. Thank

you from the bottom of our hearts, it helped us out so much!

Portland-land of my birth

2010-10-28T18:55:00.003-06:00

Anson and I had the chance to go to Portland and visit my family for a week back in September and it was SOOO FUN! This was Anson's first time on an airplane and he was a dream!! He fell asleep during the decent into Portland, so if his ears hurt him at all, I didn't know because he didn't make a peep! I was super grateful because mine were killing me!

Anson hadn't met any of his Uncles, Aunts or his Cousins yet and so naturally I was super excited! I had a blast introducing him to everyone and I have to say that I really enjoy watching people gush about how cute he is because I think he is the cutest kid on the planet! It was a pretty low key trip-- we hung out at home and with the family mostly(which is the best thing ever), hung out with a few of my friends, went to lunch and dinner a few times and went shopping.

I didn't get much sleep, so I took quite a few naps when I could get Anson to sleep. It was unusually hot and humid while we were there and because Anson is a hot box when he sleeps like his Mommy, he didn't sleep much. It wasn't until the end of the week that I figured out that the swaddler was to blame and going through a growth spurt which made him extra hungry. So, even with all the craziness of traveling, I decided to introduce Anson to rice cereal. He did super well!

Here are some pictures from the trip!

These were taken right before he fell asleep in my arms.

My Daddy helped me give Anson a bath in the sink. Also, he has a chopper(pictured) and couldn't resist putting his Grandson on it! He sure is a proud Grandpa and it's the sweetest!

Here I am with Ry and Anson. Ry is the second to youngest Grand baby in the family and he is not so little anymore. Crazy how time flies! Ry- you are such a miracle!!

Thanks so for a great trip everyone and for loving my little guy so much!! Love you guys!

Anson: 5 Months

2010-10-27T14:41:00.004-06:00

Way behind the times once again. This time I have an accuse though... Anson and I traveled to Portland (post to come), packed up a small amount of our things and Taylor drove to Florida where we are living for 6 months, Anson and I traveled with Taylor's family to Southern California (post to come) and then we joined Taylor in Florida about a week and a half ago. Anson will be 6 months next week, but at least that post will be on time!

Dear Anson,

So many new things have taken place this month and you are getting to be more and more fun by the minute! I introduced you to rice cereal, you went on a plane for the very first time and you were a trooper I might add, you are babbling more than ever (you love to hear your own voice), you are reaching for things that are in your line of vision and smiling more all the time. We can't get enough of your little dimples and your sweet giggle!

We love to take silly pictures of you and you are quite a ham, so it's not very hard to catch you at hilarious moments!

You LOVE the bath and splashing. It's as though every time your feet crash in the water it startles you and gets you even more excited resulting in more crazy fun splashing!

You have decided that the blow dryer is terrifying and as these photos show, you just got madder and madder that longer I kept it on. So, what's your Mommy to do? Of course I turned it off and gave you lots of cuddles and kisses. I hate when your sad, scared or hurt and I always want to be there to make you feel better!

Daddy and Mommy got you a new toy this month. You love your new play mat--you love playing with the toys that hang above you and the song it plays and you love to stare at yourself in the mirror. Your hand-eye coordination has improved so much since we got you this toy, it's fun to watch you reach out for things. You're growing up so fast!

I always mention how much you love your Daddy, because you do and the way your face lights up when you see him makes my heart skip a beat. Now that you are reaching for things, you especially love to reach out for your Daddy's face when he holds you and feel his beard (when he had one).

You have officially turned into a little boy. You no longer look like a newborn baby, your eyes are getting brighter and bluer like your Daddy's, you are so excited about every new thing you see and you love to take it all in with that intent stare that everyone loves so much. We can't get enough of your love and cuddles and we want you to know how precious you are and how much we love you now and always!!

Love, Daddy and Mommy

Anson: 4 Months!!

2010-09-19T20:16:00.002-06:00

Okay, so I am a slacker in getting this post up and my baby is nearly 5 months old, but at least I'm fitting it in right? Life has been busy--I feel like all I do is just clean, clean, clean, but if you want your house to stay nice, I guess that's what you have to do (I don't even clean everyday, but still it's insane). I have been booked at the salon on Wednesdays when I work and Taylor has been guiding like crazy. Meanwhile, our Anson is growing like a weed and changing everyday! I have made it my calling to focus on his development everyday-- he has tummy time, we read books, sing songs, he plays independently on his playmat, hangs out in his swing and in his bumbo chair. He watches me cook dinner almost every night and we listen to the lullaby station on pandora radio.

4 months stats : weight: 12lbs 7oz height: 25 inches

Anson,

You have accomplished a lot this month and you are quite possibly the most adorable little person that your Dad and I have ever encountered. You're smiling constantly, which is so fun and you laugh now which brings us incomprehensible joy. You have truly transformed from a newborn to a little person in the last few months and it's so sweet to watch you learn and grow, but so sad for your Mom to look back at pictures of you and marvel at how tiny you were just four and half months ago. You reach for your Dad's and my face when we are close to you and it makes our hearts go pitter patter, because you finally know who we are, you recognize our faces and you light up when you see us.

You adore your Dad, it so precious when he walks in the door from work, because you get a big grin on your face. Your daddy loves you, his world begins and end with you. He misses you even when he's only apart from you for the day and he loves to hold and snuggle with you every second that he gets. Your Dad claimed that once you were old enough, he'd let you cry it out no matter what as long as you had everything you needed (clean bum, full tummy, not too hot and feeling well). Let me tell you that anytime he hears a peep come from your room, he promptly gets up, because he can't stand to hear you cry.

You discovered your feet this month and you are always playing with them.

You have pretty good control of your hands these days--you're reaching for toys and holding on to them for little spurts of time, and you LOVE the toys that hang above you on your playmat and you are trying to turn the pages of your books when I read them to you

I am in LOVE with this sweater that I bought for you and I was soooo worried that it wouldn't get cold enough for you to wear it before you'd outgrown it. We happen to live in a place that has pretty wacko weather patterns and it got cold for a week, so I put it on you and it FITS!!!! It is the cutest thing on the planet and it's still quite big which means that it will fit for a while. It just broke my heart when I put it on you for the first time because you looked so precious.

You are getting so good at sitting up in your bumbo like a big boy, before we know it, you'll be sitting up on your own with no help at all!

I won't say that you love tummy time, you really don't. You'll lay there for a few minutes and then get frustrated and roll over on your back so that you can play with your feet. Your neck is getting very strong though and you are able to hold your head up comfortably without any trouble. On the other end of the spectrum, you LOVE baths, they make you smile.

Your cute moments are not few, actually you have about 20 cute moments a day. Thanks you for loving us and we want you to know that we are so grateful to be your parents. You are a very even tempered little boy, you love your schedule and you hate it when we throw you off. I know sometimes it's hard when you want to take a nap and you aren't comfy in your bed, but we try as hard as we can to be consistent. We are doing the best job that we know how and we hope that you will love us for how hard we work. We miss you when we are away from you for only a few hours and you always greet us with a sweet smile when you lay your eyes on us. We love you so much sweet baby and we know that many happy tomorrows lie ahead!

Love, Daddy & Mommy

Utah

2010-09-05T20:56:00.000-06:00

The second week of August, I got to go to Utah for a few days and spend time with my Mommy, some Aunties, Uncles and Cousins. I had to drive Taylor to the airport to go on a business trip to Florida at the same time, so it worked out perfectly!! My Mom asked me to meet her because she was flying in for my cousin Brandon's wedding and she wanted to see her Grandson and of course me, but mostly Anson. I spent my first night Tuesday August 10th in Pleasantview with My Aunt Michelle, Uncle Dano, my Grandparents and cousins and had a great time. I hung there until about 9pm Wednesday night and then headed to the airport to pick up my Mom. Then we headed to American Fork to my Uncle Ben and Aunt Katie's house where we hung out until Saturday afternoon. It was a great week, the wedding was beautiful (sorry no pics) and I had so much fun with my Mom and extended family!! Picked up Tay on Saturday night and then we headed back to my Aunt Michelle's for the night! It was nice to get out of town just for a few days.

Here are some pics from the trip!

Are these not the cutest ever?!??! I just adore these photos!

I have to say that I never went hungry on this trip! We ate everything from German pancakes and Belgian waffles, to chinese, bajio and milkshakes. It was pretty much awesome!

Love, Love, LOVE this photo!

My best Couzie Covina and I--we always have the best time together! Love you beans! Xoxo!

Now for some big news! I'm pregnant!!! Just kidding, I would have to be out of my mind!!! Our little family is moving to Florida for 6 months in October!!! Taylor got a job with a company called Store-all and they have storage units all along the East coast. Taylor is getting trained on how their whole operation works, so that he can come back here, find properties along the West coast and expand Store-all!! We are very excited for this opportunity and hope that it's a success!

That's all for now!

Anson: 3 Months!

2010-08-06T22:00:00.001-06:00

Anson,

You are growing up far too quickly for your Mama and Daddy to handle. Your second month of life has been full of milestones and you are becoming more and more fun each day.

You spent a lot of time in the sun this month and you have a little color on your cheeks to prove it. You love to just hang out in your diaper outside, especially since it's been so hot. Mama and Auntie Lindsay had some fun putting sun glasses on you, you didn't love it, but you were a good sport.

We've spent a ton of time outside and we dipped you in the water for the very first time and you initially hated it, but once you got used to it, you were a champ. Uncle Tanner even dipped you in the river one day, which is FREEZING cold, but you had been so hot in the car that you LOVED it! I think you are showing the signs of becoming a water baby.

You love to tell us stories now, sometimes they are sad stories but we still listen.

You can hold your head up all by yourself now and you are actually starting to enjoy tummy time and your tummy time toy! You even rolled over once, which is a big deal for as little as you are. I think we can expect great things from you little guy.

You love to stick out your tongue and you have even started chewing on it a little with your gums. You love to smile at your Mama and Daddy, and we just eat it right up. You already have us eating out of the palm of your hand, but who wouldn't get sucked in by that face, especially with that double chin of yours?!

You have so many cute new facial expressions and your Daddy loves to bring them out.

You still love to cuddle, not as much as you used to but we'll take all we can get. I sure wish I could fall asleep sitting up.

You look so much like your Dad and it's just the cutest. You even sleep like him when you are outside your swaddler (this photo was shot at 12am after you ate).

We sure do love you little man and we're so excited to see you continue to grow and change. Xoxo!!

Bailey family reunion at Deer Springs Ranch

2010-07-24T10:52:00.003-06:00

Anson did a fantastic job on his first road trip to Deer Springs Ranch in Southern Utah. 8 hours in the car and hardly a fuss!!

We had tons of fun riding in the Rhino, on four wheelers and motorcycles all week! Our nieces LOVED the rhino and Claire even feel asleep in it on one ride.

Anson got to meet his Great Grandpa Barlow for the very first time!

Bailey, Claire and Hazel were ecstatic to meet little Anson and just couldn't get enough of him. Bailey was so sweet with Anson when she'd hold him and he even fell asleep in her lap once.

The whole family took off to Zion National Park one day and Taylor, myself and his Sister Natalie stayed behind with our little ones because it was gonna be too long of a day for our kids. Aunt Lisa stayed behind as well and we enjoyed visiting for the majority of the day and a rhino ride down to the pond to check out the fish.

There are GORGEOUS pink cliffs surrounding Deer Springs ranch, so Natalie, cousin Malia, Taylor and I took the rhino all the way to the top of them to get a closer look and they are breathtaking.

It was pretty special to get this photo done because Anson is the first Grandson born to Taylor's parents and the first Great Grandson born to Greg's parents who carries the Barlow Name.

We had a great week with the family visiting, playing games, eating lots of great food and enjoying the great outdoors! So thank you to Mom and Dad Barlow for all the festivities, we hope we can do it again!!!

Super 4th of July...belated.

2010-07-14T22:42:00.004-06:00

We had some super adventures on fourth of July weekend. The festivities began the night of the 2nd when we met up with our friends Mike, Bre and Ande along with both Bre and Mike's families in the mountains. We had a campfire, delicious pulled pork sandwiches and dutch oven cobbler! It was fun to hang out and laugh and it was Anson's first kinda camping experience (we didn't sleep up there), so that was exciting.

Mexican Horse Race (not at all meant to be racist): 4 people (or as many as you want) are given a mexican name and you have to stand up in front of everyone and tap your legs very loudly like a horse and one at a time yell your given name as loud as possible and then it speeds up and then you have to tap your legs and then yell hoof and your given name as loud as possible. The names given were: Bre (Juan), Mike (Juilo), Don (Arted) and Carl (Alejandro). This is so hilarious and we didn't get it until the very end, which is exactly what I caught on camera. Listen closely to Don.

July 3rd:

Our morning started with the parade in Victor, which happen to take place two blocks from our house (yeeeesssss), followed by the craft fair and delightful food and then later that night we had more food at Huntsman Springs where I ate hardly anything, but had two brownies (they were so amazing, I should have taken a picture). Our night ended hearing a very patriotic speech by Glenn Beck who was invited to Huntsman Springs by the owner of the golf course/development John Huntsman. Then FIREWORKS! It was an great day.

July 4th:

We spent driving to Southern Utah to Deer Springs Ranch for a family reunion. Pictures and stories to follow!

A much needed girls day!

2010-07-11T16:03:00.005-06:00

A few weeks ago, my good friend Lindsay came over while our husbands went fishing. It was so nice to have some girl time! We had lunch at Subway, went and got milkshakes at the emporium, and sat out on the deck in the sun and painted our toes and listened to music.

Anson and Lola had a good time hanging in the sun as well. All in all it was a great day!

Our Baby is 2 months old!

2010-07-02T09:58:00.008-06:00

Anson's two month stats: 10lb 8.5oz and 23 1/2inches long

Time has gone by so quickly, he'll be riding a bike and banging up his knees before we know it. These last two months have been filled with so many new experiences both joyful and tearful (on my part mostly), but altogether being parents to our little man is pretty fantastic. Anson is the sweetest little baby and 9 times out of 10, the MOST CONTENT baby in the world. He only wakes up once in the middle of the night to eat and then he usually goes back to sleep for me after his 6 or 7am feeding--not too shabby eh? Not bragging, okay maybe a little but we just feel very lucky.

Anson is starting to smile and coo, which is so fun that he can interact with us more. We recently borrowed a swing from some friends of ours and he is totally enthralled with it, he loves the music it plays and of course his turtle mobile which I attached to it (I just ordered his very own swing today). Anson is really starting to respond to color and sounds. His happiest time is first thing in the morning--he eats and gets his bum changed and then lays on our bed, in his chair, in his swing or on the floor and kicks his legs, coos and smiles for an hour or so. He's made many new discoveries this month; read on to learn more!

Baby Boy,

We love to see you smile and hate it when your sad. You have a smile that is going to break some serious hearts in the years to come (mostly your Mommy's). You don't quite smile when you're awake as big as you do when you're asleep, but that will come soon enough. You have a sad face that literally breaks Mommy and Daddy's hearts and it's usually followed by this very sad squeak leading into a cry, but that only happens when you're especially sad.

Mommy loves to dress you in all sorts of cute outfits and shoes.

You love to hang out in your diaper and you look so cute. You eat tons (the average infant consumes around two ounces at 2 months, you east anywhere from three to five) as evident by your growing belly.

You have tried lots of new things this month: you love your swing, you experienced your first campfire, attended your first parade and went on your first road trip (7 hours in the car and you were such a trooper)!

You have discovered your fists and you love to suck on them!

You have finally noticed the animals hanging from your chair and you love to kick and coo at them, well, most of the time...

You love to kick your legs and it's pretty cute to watch.

We love you so much little man and we love watching you grow! Happy 2 months little one!

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

P.S. I had to watch my baby get shots today and it was AWE-FULL!

Anson is 6 weeks!

2010-06-15T08:41:00.010-06:00

Well, because I am a slacker of a Mom and forgot to do a post when our little man turned one month old, I decided that I should do one now. Can't Believe Anson is already 6 weeks old! He is growing like a weed and has changed so much already since he was born.

6 week stats: 9lbs 7 oz and 21 1/2inches long

Anson loves music, his binky (only when he needs it though), his mobile, his caterpillar and the pretty song it plays, his little fisher price chair, to take walks, and to stare at the clouds.

He's happiest when: he swaddled up tight for bed, his bum is clean, his tummy is full and when he's being loved and kissed and cuddled by his Mommy or Daddy.

Hey cute guy,

We think you have the cutest bulky cloth diaper bum on the planet!

We love your wide eyed stare, you are always so enamored by anything new or by looking at your Mom and Dad or any new face.

Your Daddy absolutely adores you and is already buying you trucks to play with for when you get bigger. Mommy adores as well, but she's always behind the camera.

We love you more than you realize sweet boy. Please don't grow up too fast.

I love my Grandpa more than...

2010-06-14T14:55:00.005-06:00

My binky and a my warm blanket

My Chair (it's a pretty good chair too)

My Mobile

5 reasons why my Grandpa Barlow is the best

He thinks my bulky cloth diaper bum is cute
He knows just how to hold me when my tummy hurts
He's good at snuggling
He's gonna take me fishing all the time when I'm bigger
He's gonna teach me how to make deals just like him when I grow up so I can be successful

Grandpa, I love you! Happy Birthday!

Love,
Anson

A great Day

2010-06-03T16:01:00.010-06:00

We blessed out little Anson this past weekend in our home. Nothing against blessings that are performed at church, but the spirit that was felt at our house was incredible and I feel like it's so much more personal. Taylor's Dad conducted and said some beautiful words and then my grandfather gave a gorgeous prayer, followed by Taylor giving Anson his blessing, which were some of the most precious words that I've ever heard. I'm so grateful to be surrounded by worthy priesthood holders and so proud of my hubby and I know that Anson will be proud of his Dad when he gets to read those words one day. We had a house full of good friends and some of our family and some delightful food! Here are some photos from the day!

Our little Family

Daddy and Anson

Anson in his blessing tux (it's a bit big) that my great Grandma made and that all my Brother and Nephews have worn.

Taylor, Anson and I with Taylor's parents, my parents and my Grandparents.

Taylor and Anson with Taylor's Dad, my Dad and my Grandpa.

Taylor and Anson with all the great Men that stood in the circle.

The boys (minus Zebe)

Ande and Paisley in there cute Sunday dresses.

Taylor with little Em havin a good time.