THE TWO CRAZIES AND TWO LADIES

Dear John,

2011-04-10T13:07:00.002-04:00

Dear Blog, I am sorry about all this. We had a great time. Lots of memories. Really its me not you. I just don't wanna have this relationship anymore. Your high maintenance and well Mr. Facebook is pretty low-key. I don't feel mass guilt every time I post or don't post like I do when I check you Mr. Blog. You need pictures and updates to my fabulous life and well I'm just to busy having that fabulous life to stop and download a ton of pics, sort them, write something witty and post them. Usually that takes place between midnight and 3am. And, I SERIOUSLY need my beauty sleep. Just ask Lovey, I really need all the sleep I can get or is gonna be bad. Blog, I'm sorry this might be it for us. Unless you change my mind-which is doubtful... Love, Brit~

We couldn't have done it without our friends...

2011-01-26T21:58:00.006-05:00

This is one of Jaxons closest cousins Artina and her Lovey Brock. I bonded the most with Artina over all the other cousins and we just really love them. We were so excited that they were able to make the long trip even with THREE little kids including a new baby. You two are great examples of a great loving marrige and we love you. Thank you for your love for us.

Jaxon's younger brother Chris and his Emily came for our big day and we were so excited.

Emily,

We know you didn't have to make the trip from pretty Seattle to dry boring Utah but we are so grateful you did. You are so beautiful and classy and we are happy you put up with Chris and make him a better person. You have done our family a world of good. I always wish we lived closer so we could shop and you could make me cool. Im glad you like the pearls. We love you,

Brit and Jax

Jackie after a LONG day! You know I love those sky high red heels. wink wink

Us gals at La Caille on the terrace.
Jackie, Shama, and Katie outside the Draper Temple waiting for my family to come out!

I have always been fortunate to have great friends where ever I live. Its one of my gifts-I am a girls girl. Yet, as lucky as I am to have always made friends there is always those women that you canno't live without. These girls pictured above have been my life line when I had nothing to add to the friendships. They gave and I took and it was a long while before I was able to give anything back. They loved me when I was relearning what love was. I love, truly love these Ladies.

Jackie, Shama and Kaite, (and Shannon who only got to come to the endowment the day before this goes to you too)

I am so grateful you were able to come to my happiest day. Thank you for being there on my worst day. Thank you for all the days inbetween. Even though we don't chat so much and FB is our saving grace with our busy lives; I dearly love and respect you. I find you all to be my sisters I got to pick. You are women I hope to emulate and I admire you four so much. Thanks for loving Jaxon and I though everything. We love you and are indebted to you for your unconditional love.

Love,

Brit

PS. I love the Kelly Green Coach handbag. You know me so well. I use it everyday!

Sealing After Party

2010-12-21T09:07:00.013-05:00

From the Temple we sent the guests off early for cocktail hour (well, Mormon cocktails) while we finished pictures and changed. This is us walking up the flights of stairs to our party on the veranda. We were actually taking bets as to which brother would end up in the fountians!!

We toasted our guests and our love and everything else we were happy about that night-or I did. My toast was considerably longer than that of my loveys. Shocker. We were just so thrilled!

Doesn't Jaxon look dapper in Calvin Klein?!! I could not keep that mans jacket on or his cuffs rolled down, oh well, he looked like himself! He is giving a heartfelt one minute toast!

As favors to our loved ones I made up 'Swag Bags of the South' that included Hush puppy mix from the seafood restruant we went to on our first wedding, Scarlett O'Hara Morning Glory seed packets, a jar of my famous BBQ sauce, a magnet that Korbin made of the Gerogia sun (Grandmas love this sort of thing!) it was topped with a giant starfish from Savannah and the bags were made to be reused as shoe travel bags. Seattle made me quite eco friendly!!

A priority of our evening was to give our family and friends a little taste of the south that we love and we served Virgin Mint Juleps which are known as Jucy Juleps. Our bartender kept them coming and they were rather fantastic!

At our dinner I made it so we were served dessert first. I made little notes that said 'Life is unpredictable, Eat Dessert First' and our guests had little Bengiets, Creme Brulee and Chocolate lava torte. Dont worry, We finished the courses with Tuxedo Strawberries!

Right off our terrace we could walk down to the swan pond, vinyards and of course, driving range. There were peacocks and bunnies, and ducks and swans all over the place.

Lovey and I being silly in a moment alone.

I just like this picture. I don't look as 'housewifey' as usual.

This is both our families who sacraficed much by attending and we love them all so dearly.
Our night was perfect.

We are SEALED (with pictures)

2010-12-15T01:47:00.013-05:00

How the Draper Utah Temple looked as we were inside becoming an eternal family.

We just couldn't stop being like, well, like this. This is us.

All the family and the people we also claim as family.

We are so so humbled by your unconditional love!

Silly Babies!!
Four Generations!! From left to right-Myself, Jaxon, Mom aka. Bobette, Dad aka. Mike,

Allie, Korbin, Grandma and Grandpa Phillips.

Four Generations!

Korbin, Myself, Alexzondra, Grandma Marylin (who's in her mid eighties!) and my Mommy!

Miss. Allie was delighted that she was the center of attention and said her 'Heart was Happy'.

My Lovey and I. Forever.

This was the best family picture we could get. But, I love the unique-ness of it. Both the children needed suckers to keep them happy (Thanks Jaime) and we could not get them both to smile at the same time-mostly Miss. Allie. Yet, we have enough love in this picture to make me happy!

On July 30, 2010 Jaxon and I took our children Korbin and Alexzondra inside the Draper Temple to make covenants to eachother and to Heavenly Father. We knew what love was before we went and once inside we thought we would learn more; But, all we felt was that what we already knew was right. We live a life of pure, unconditional, honest love. I was ready. Jaxon was ready. We are committed to eachother, our babies and the Lord. It was a great and wonderful step. Now we just keep learning and growing.

It was divine.

Thank you to our loved ones for helping us get to this point. We are forever in your debt. We ask you to continue the climb with us. It's not over yet!

Thank you to amandakphotography.net

Katie you captured our spirit, our love, our craziness. Thank you for being our photographer and mostly our friend. We will remember this always.

In 13 days we will be forever...

2010-07-17T18:57:00.002-04:00

In 13 days Jaxon and I will take our babies to the Draper Temple to be sealed as a family. Part of me has been ready for years and part of me is just now ready. I'll never be able to understand the love I have for this man. It's almost maddening how much I don't have any control over the feelings I have for him, they are so intense, so pure, so passionate and so wonderful. Even in my very darkest hour I knew he was the only one for me. Even when he didn't know -I knew.

If you know us well you would know our road has not been easy. Hardships most marriages will never face have been ours in the first 7 years. Each year has taught us what true love really is. I knew what love was before we married. I knew what it was the first year. The second and so forth but to wake up and say 'Today I'm going to love you more than yesterday' is something that takes much patience. And Practice.

When we were first married a wicked old lady in my ward (Geny Morrision) gave me a piece of great advice 'The day I stopped trying to be the PERFECT wife, I became a wonderful one' How true it was. I wanted to be the smartest, prettiest wife. The one with the best house and cutest kids-who also have manners and I wanted everything to be perfect and I still wanted to be fun. I eventually realized-Jaxon wants a wife who will cuddle him at any given time. A wife who doesn't let herself go but doesn't take 2 hours to get ready. A wife that no matter what stands her ground. And the most important part -A wife that loves him unconditionally. I want to be that wife. I also want to be a little of what a wife is to me too. In the middle we found happiness-and that's all we really wanted anyway.

My lovey is-well, he's just delicious. He is a little bit of everything and I am so happy he is. I'd say he's the most well rounded person I know (except with dancing-or singing-or...) In one minute he can have big tough hands that can build something and the next he is touching me with the most gentle caress while he kisses me softly. He is wildly annoying and like very expensive toys (last week we bought a Harley) but his annoying traits and sorely missed when he's away and we love him just the way he is.

After we were leaving the stake presidents office I asked him if he really was ready because just a few short years ago he wanted nothing to do with God and his reply was so wonderful 'I was just being an idiot, I never not believed I just didn't really think it was for me. I know now that I need it and it needs me. I'm ready for Heavenly Father to make me the man I'm supposed to be I'd also like to have you you know...Forever. That will be great too.'

(You know how Jax speaks =)

Little did he know I'd been working on him the whole time and I'm pretty sure Heavenly Father knew it even when Jaxon didn't.

I AM READY!! I want him and the crazies FOREVER and a little longer after that if you please...

Allies 2nd Un Birthday

2010-07-15T14:12:00.002-04:00

Our little lady Allie had her 2nd Birthday on Saturday. What? You say-she was born in December? Yes! She was, but in our house you get a 'Birthday Season' (It has something to do with Chirst being our brother and he gets a Holiday season so the rest of the family should follow suit) So, because of Christmas she gets a Un-Birthday on the half-year. July 10th.

She is only two and we leave in 10 days to go to get sealed so it was very low key! We just invited kids she usually plays with to come to our pool and then have cake and ice cream.

Our sweet friend Angie made her the prettiest Tinkerbell Cake and dyed the inside pick and purple swirls!! Everyone loved it!!

It was a little crazy leading up to the party with the weather being rainy so Jaxon and I moved the tabke into the formal dining room and planned to put a kiddie pool in the kitchen. (My kid wanted a pool party, and dang it she was gonna get it!) I got nervous and decorated the house so if we did get rained out we could still improve inside! I am so glad I did!! It was clear sky from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. and at five on the nose it started to pour. We went inside and dried off in a tinkerbell pink paradise!

Miss. Allie got killer gifts and we feel very blessed to have so many little kiddos she is buddies with!!

Some of the kids induldging...

Sorry, thats the best picture I could get with her in the pool. She's just as crazy in water as on land. Kinda takes after someone-I can't remember who...
Is that a little mexican boy? Nope it's Korbin and albino Jaxon-well, being themselves...

Isn't that the cutest cake ever?!! I look fat (that shirt is now in the Goodwill box) but Miss. Allie looks so happy. She is a crazy, silly, wild, sweet, happy little girl!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LADYBUG!!

Its called CATCH UP TIME!

2010-07-12T03:20:00.000-04:00

I have been crappy at blogging but I've been wicked busy doing this:
Eating Donouts on National Donut Day.

And dragging mis matched Korbin to the lake again-He's upset he can't get in.

Helping Miss. Allie feed the baby geese and ducklings who are all 'Birds' no matter what.

When Jaxon came home to visit from PA he got to business for our upcoming sealing. The guys who stood in the circle when Jefferson Hunter (on other end) gave my lovey the Preisthood. I love these men but mostly the hot chicks they live with=)

And, he made Sunday Waffles with his other great love. (Can you see the way she looks at him? It's beautiful)

In case you didn't look close the first time. (just kidding I just can't erase it for some reason)

Going to the Augusta Farmers Market on the Savannah river. My favorite Saturday activity Ever! And the Shaved ice isn't bad in 110 degree heat! Miss. Allie learning how to do some makeup while I am showering. I was screaming at her to stop while in the shower. This kid might not make it to puberty.

'Oh, you don't like this look? What is wrong with YOU?' She asks when I wont let her keep it on for the store.

Working towards a Black Belt-our life revolves around Karate now. It's been great for Korbin. He is loving 'Ninja Training' as he calls it. If you know my son this is right up his alley! This is his first of many many boards he's broke.

Also, in the 9 weeks Jaxon was away in Pittsburg we were preparing to go to the Draper Temple on the 30th of July.

You wont want to miss that post.

Stay Tuned...

Much better...

2010-05-06T21:19:00.000-04:00

OK! I know 4 hours ago I posted how tired I was.

I still am, but in 4 hours we have had a good few things happen.

#1. ALLIE POOPED IN THE POTTY ON HER OWN-meaning no prompting. (like I stated in earlier post-we weren't doing so hot.) YEA! It takes a mommy to know how wonderful this is!

#2. The children went to bed beautifully. Baths, Brushing teeth, Stories, Bible, Prayers, Song and SLEEP! (with a few extra cuddles from me because I like holding nice children)

#3. Tonight I got my gown fitted. I have been very worried because we have to 'Mormon' it up. Not my favorite thing-Ill pay someone to shop modestly down here for me cause its insane! Anywoo-I finally met with the seamstress-I bought the dress in March and rushed it to be made before end of June (apparently I'm scary or something because they were done way ahead of schedule)-and Mercy-yes, that's her name-is AMAZING. I am now really excited to go home to Utah and have a great time after we get sealed. I have a nice 'Conservative practical' dress for the Temple and a NOW Jade green chiffon stunner for the after-party. Its really just a dinner but I'm not eating THAT dinner in a church dress!

Now, time to put my tired butt to bed...now I'm going to bed in a great mood.

tired...

2010-05-06T17:19:00.000-04:00

Allie hit her mouth last Sunday on our hardwood floor thus, moving her two front teeth backwards. (I'm sparing you the long ER story and Oral Surgeon story because, I'm frankly- exhausted) and this week was spent eating soft foods, regressing in potty training and staying indoors as to try to let the gums reattach themselves so we don't have to pull her front teeth.

I am tired. I am tired of small persons with blond curls who scream all day that they still want pizza when all they can eat is oatmeal and applesauce. I'm tired of Jax being gone (we are not even a week in)

I'm tired of Korbin coming home from school and being ticked that he can't have friends over and I want him to stay home to play with Allie because he is the only kid she can be around. I'm just tired.

Trying to ease the BORING week ahead of us I had the NOT SO Brilliant idea to paint our Master Bedroom/TV room. FOUR yes, that's right, 4 different colors. The idea in my head is fantastic the actuality is that Jaxons balls will drop off the minute he walks in and the only people comfortable in that room are Drag Queens (although we could take a few Spanx tips).

I am too tired to re tape (I used 400 feet of tape) and so I will spend a week or two in a super crazy room because I'm too tired to care...whatever...

We had better be able to save these teeth or the Dentist is going to have a sobbing crazy mess on his hands and I'm not only talking about Allie.

Panites Galore

2010-04-25T21:53:00.000-04:00

Last week I taught a lesson in Relief Society on prayer. I was like piece of cake-I pray all the time-then we started to potty train Miss. Allie. I PRAY LIKE A LUNATIC NOW!
First thing on Monday morning we took every single diaper and gave them to our friend, Kaylee (whom will also be potty trained this year=) and went back home with Fairy Princess panties on and a short dress. The NUMBER ONE thing about potty training-well there are two things,

1. YOU CAN NOT GET FRUSTRATED OR MAD AT THEM!

2. YOU HAVE TO BE CONSISTENT

and you can't leave your house for forever.

Miss. Allie was so ready she would bring me her diaper, wipes and baby powder and lay down in front of you-so she was clearly ready to get going with this.

I was prepared. I bought a ridiculous amount of pretty panties, I got the juice ready, I got the books and songs to sing and friends scheduled to come over and play.

And, then the poop came...

Let me just say-When I die and I have that list of questions for God such as

'Childbirth-REALLY?!' and 'Why do men have nipples?' another has been added to my list.

'Poop-REALLY?'

Allie runs her little legs as quick as lightening if she has to pee but somehow pooping became negotiable-I'm so confused!

I have literally had to baby wipe up the way we ran through a department store to be too late to the potty. That was super fun. As some nice lady is trying to decide if the outfit she tried on looks nice she decides not to buy the dress because she is only smelling ALLIES POO!

Yep, that's hot!

Anyway, it has been eventful and long and I will be steam cleaning carpets this week.

But she is officially POTTY TRAINED.

And, I learned that when you earnestly pray about poop-Heavenly Father hears you (of course)

but he's laughing his head off at your expense...

**She only wants to wear Elmo panties or her brothers boxer briefs that are 6 sizes to big and fall off her butt all day. Classy chick!

I just think it's lovely...

2010-04-16T13:09:00.000-04:00

I'm not in the market for a wedding cake but I'm always on wedding blogs anyway looking for such and such for the Sealing. I came across this and its so NOT my usual taste, but I LOVE it. It's so vintage and unique looking I love the topper too! Isn't that the greatest? I don't love the Temple Toppers because I feel like they don't convey the personality of the couple. I think the after-party should be just that! I don't love the shabby chic accesories on the other page but that picture tagged along. If I were to go back and actually get a wedding cake I would find a way to pay for this 3K beauty!

This cake is just lovely...

Lucky...

2010-04-14T17:42:00.000-04:00

Last night a very scary thing happened to our Miss. Allie. As we were brushing teeth with the kids Jaxon turned from the counter where Allie was sitting to grab her PJs from me. All the sudden we hear a loud crash and Korbin yell 'It wasn't me' or something to that effect, and the next thing I hear is Jaxon in his 'emergency voice' say Holy Crap and I go into the bathroom to see Jaxon swooping up Allie and blood from the floor, up the cabinets to the sink where he has her trying to quit choking on her own blood. She had fallen face first on her toothbrush and gouged the back-side of her mouth. Jaxon always says I overreact (never) but in his deep 'emergency voice' he tells me to get ready to go the ER. NOW.

For the first (and only) time in Korbin's life he did exactly what he was told. Get your clothes on, get in the car, put on your seat belt and be quiet. He did just that. In about a total of one minute we were out the door. Allie has soaked through her shirt, the hand towel and Jaxons workout clothes. I take her out to the car in nothing but a diaper and her Jammie pants and we buckle her in while Jaxon turns around in the front seat trying to soak up the rest of the blood. At this point we have the blood pretty much under control but her cheek has swollen up to the size of a small apple (thats really big considering she's only 30 lbs.)

My wonderful girlfriend Amy calls the hospital for us to tell them we are coming. I throw on the emergency's and tear out of our neighborhood. *Note-To anyone who lives in GA. If you are dying you had better pray because NOT one single person moved when I rode them with my emergency's on. I layed on my horn and after about two times they finally looked in the mirror and moved-but not without flipping me off first. Nice huh?

We get in the ER and even though we only waited for 4-5 minutes it felt like an eternity with a bloody baby in my arms. It was such a relief to have Jaxon there (he's never been to one of our kids ER visits before due to the Navy) and he is so comforting to her. She trusts her daddy 100%.

When she was seen by the Doctor the blood had mostly stopped but she kept trying to swallow real hard and we though she was just swallowing her blood. She was a 'hair' away from the big artery in the back of your throat (honest-I didn't know there was one back there) and he said she was so lucky because if she had hit it she could have bled out by now. Those words while your holding your alive child makes so grateful for the minor injury that your there for.

He said it was more risk to put her under and stitch the inside of her mouth up than to live in hell for a week with her eating soft foods (like baby food) and not going anywhere that she may bump her large swollen cheek. When every thing was said and done she left with a Popsicle and a bunch of Motrin.

We now have a lifetime supply of Popsicles in our freezer. Of which, she hasn't touched till 30 minutes ago.

Last night she was up at three and screaming mostly all day but the swelling has gone down and she's finally drank some juice. Her cheek was so swollen she couldn't form a shape with her lips and it would just pour down the front of her thus making her wig out more. Today was so long and I'm exhausted but it is so much better than something else I would be doing today if she hadn't been so lucky...

A fun-Living wife

2010-04-12T21:08:00.000-04:00

Last week a girlfriend lent me her book 'Strangling your Husband is NOT an option' By Merilee Boyack and I was sorta like 'Gee did I say something that makes you think I need this? Did I talk you you while I was ticked at Jax? Do you think I'm a crappy wife?' After I realized I was PMS-ing I see that she read it and just wanted to pass it on. I hope...
I did start to read it in my need to always do something and laughed the whole time!! It was a great book and I'm just happy to have read it with an Church Active lovey! Because, for once in my life I am not urging Jaxon to do his Home Teaching (if you knew him before this is a miracle!) He is full circle from the way things were a few years ago and I loved the pants off him then (Yes, pun intended! Who's blog do you think this is?! =) and now I was happy to read this and actually check off a good number of things and It was nice to feel like my hard work in this marriage paid off!! And, can keep paying off FOREVER!!!
On to the good stuff-There is a chapter on being a 'fun-living wife' and I am ALWAYS trying to liven things up. Seriously, changing diapers totally cramps the sporadic energetic person that I once was! I took the 'Are you a boring wife' test and I only do ONE of the things-I wear my stinky gym clothes some days-all day. I know that's gross but I'm weeding (don't pass out, I have to weed-Jax is too cheap to hire it out) and playing tag or being Obi-One-Kan obi or whatever. But, I so want to be the fun-living wife, mom, and friend. I don't want to be 'Oh, gotta go see what the ball and chain is up too, probaly nothing; She's just there.'
ME!? NEVER!!
And, after being poverty stricken in the Navy for a few years I've learned that a good time can cost NOTHING!! You can be a good time just by being a fun person!! I WILL be a FUN LIVING WIFE and if we are going to have to pull weeds we will do it with music and watermelon and swimsuits and a bubble machine and we will have a backyard picnic as soon as we are done-baby, your never gonna want to pull weeds with anybody else....

The Passy Fairy came!!! (pics are funny so look from bottom to top)

2010-04-04T22:36:00.000-04:00

Miss. Allie very happy about her promotion to 'Big Girl' status.

Trying on her wings and clearly comfortable with her personal fairy....

Passy Fairy (notice the little yellow bucket-it has passys in it from the last house she was visiting) coming to a now 'Big Girls' house.

Miss. Allie meeting her Passy Fairy. Note-Allie has her passy in her mouth. She was using up every last moment...

I had wanted to get rid of the passy but I wanted to do it where I wasn't the bad guy (I'm ALWAYS the bad guy for some reason) and I had a few ideas come from friends and this was the best! I called a few local ballet studios and asked if there was any girl (Jaxon said it would have been way better with a bodybuilder in a tutu-he's retarded) that wouldn't mind making $20 to dress up and take my kids passys to 'other little babies that needed them'

It would be the easiest 15 minutes of her working life.

I got a call a few days later-probably after they Googled me to see if I was a pedophile-from this girls mom saying she was interested. We met her a few weeks later at a big dance showcase-where Miss. Allie was enamored by dance (I was thrilled) and kept still the longest she had in her whole life. We told introduced them and we found Kaitlyn (aka. Passy Fairy extraordinaire) to be the sweetest thing and one heck of a dancer!

Last night Kaitlyn went above and beyond for her first 'Passy Fairy' gig.

I had asked her to wear any sort of super girly costume and she showed up in a Tinker Bell approved costume complete with huge wings! She was so sweet and even brought a little bucket with other passys in it (that she had just collected from other 'Big Girls') and big girl things like stickers, bubbles, a princess bowl and cup (we already had the matching plate) and the best-a magical set of identical wings.

Miss. Allie was elated, a little hacked at the putting the passys in the bucket but she really liked the bubbles and the wings. I had told Kaitlyn I would have fairy dust and a big girl toy ready for her but they were not needed-hers were way better!

Our good friends, Amy and Kaylee Hunter were there for moral support and I think they will be calling this Passy Fairy soon! And, I shall be running some more $$ to her for all the extras she threw in! She did much more than my little $20 could have thought!

We waved goodbye to her and wished her luck in her next fairy adventures.

We are now two nights down and doing pretty great!!

When she asks for her passy we ask her where it went and she says 'Passy Fairy took to the babies' and she feels better.

Yea, for the Passy Fairy!!!

Gotta wash the Redneck off us...

2010-04-04T21:25:00.000-04:00

Albino Racoon (occasional sleeping partner for hire)

??????????

'Dorthy' our lovely tour guide who is being raised similar to 'Mogwli'

Jaxon helping Miss. Allie...

'Robin Hood' Waiting to take us to Nottingham...

Emily and one of her little lady's Eibhlin on the hay ride (there's no hay anywhere).

Miss. Allie and I on the 'boat ride' (more like a pond that you go in a circle in for about 10 minutes) Note-the pollen on the seat...

The Crazies on the boardwalk (the most well-done thing in the park and probally the newest) Don't you love Korbin's 'Egg Hat'? I wouldn't hold it for him so he made due...
Miss. Allie chucking food at the goat. Not feeding-fearing...

In keeping with my tradition of driving to far off places and finding things to do that normal families don't; we (my friend Emily and I) found this little nugget of paradise. We wanted to have a good olde southern Easter Egg Hunt (like on Steel Magnolias) and being as we are not from the area we didn't know that because of The Masters Golf Tournament (which our world during the week of April 5-10 revolves around nowadays) the entire city moves Easter to the week before. Not sure if they checked that with Christ but Tiger Woods is on board. Anyway we finally found a place with a terrific flyer that had tons of 'attractions' and things to do besides the egg hunt. I being a hater of Santa and all things that take away from Jesus real Holiday was pretty happy about that. So we pack the kids, snacks and spouse and go to our destination...

We arrive in the middle of NOWHERE to this land that is very clear they are not a Zoo but a reserve and trespassers would be punished by Smith and Wesson (that is a Gun Co.) Jax got a kick out of that till we kept driving and noticed allot of brown trailers and cages. We said 'We've drove this far and Emily is meeting us so lets make the best of whatever this is'

We get moving into the, the, the I don't know the words to use. It was like all the carneys retired and settled there to reproduce and said 'Hey, we know allot about animals lets call this a Rescue and we'll be rich and no one will care if we don't have a dental plan or schools.'

I don't have enough time or energy to re-live the day but just make sure to notice the people in the pictures and sort of structures, its pretty impressive.

We had 'Robin Hood' take us on the egg hunt but the catch was that once you found your eggs you could dump your candy in your basket but then you had to give back your eggs so they could fill them again. I'm all about reduce reuse and recycle but holy crap. Miss. Allie was very confused.

My friend Emily had her two beautiful ladies with us (really they look like magazine children) but her hubby is deployed and after all of us lugging around the kids/stroller she made the hilarious comment that she looked like our 'sister wife' and we noticed it totally did. But, in that place we totally fit in!

Our final tour guide was 10 or 11 (her family LIVED there) and had on hooker red lipstick and a Dorthy costume (along with all the other girls there?? We still are not sure why) and proceeded to take us along a wicked long walk (yes, on a dirt road) to all the animals like a tiger (best part of the day) and odd sorts of raccoons (one she claims to sleep with at night) foxes, snakes, horses, possums, birds-you get the jest. But, besides the costume this kid went BAREFOOT the whole time and spoke like she came out of Huckleberry Finn.

I am not being stuck up when I say-I have never seen anything like it and we sure as hell won't be going back. By the end of the adventurous morning we were covered by a heavy fog of pollen, dirt and crap. The kids will probably remember this very differently. Yea!

Next year I will be hosting the egg hunt and Miss. Allie will be in white gloves and Korbin will have shoes on...and they will probably hate it.

EYES

2010-04-01T22:06:00.001-04:00

People I need help! I need any secret remedies that your Great Grandmother twice removed taught you or some crazy wifestale for the WAR ON POLLEN! We are losing it, folks! Korbin and I look like we've been socked in the eyes and yes, we are on EVERYTHING.

Allegra, Zyrtec, Clari tin, Benadryl etc...If I take anything else I'll levitate and Korbin will go into a coma from an overdose!!

We are so miserable.

The drugs (one or the combo) have taken care of the runny nose and any congestion but the EYES!!

OH MY EYES!!

Seriously, a drippy eye is the ickiest thing ever. (really, think about it-its gross)

People RUN from you.

Miss. Allie wont kiss my face cause she says I look SCARY!

(you can't imagine what this does for your love life)

This is bad.

Help.

I'll stand on my head.

Ill eat, drink, chant, whatever-to feel like I can see again!!

(Truly I have so many type mistakes because typing this burns my little puffy eye balls)

A day, a mere second, that changed everything...

2010-03-15T13:54:00.000-04:00

Sometimes life sucks.

It just does.

I don't understand it.

No one does.

Right now, when I'm supposed to be looking forward to Eternity, My hardworking parents are loosing their house. The recession has eaten them alive.

My dear friends marriage is dissolving and her family totally forsaken by the one person who is supposed to love them the most.

I can't help but be frustrated by the lack of justice in the Universe.

Those are just two of the many, many heartbreaks all around and I sit here in my happiness and I know I've worked for it and I deserve it - but so have they. They have worked hard and done whats right. They were everything they should have been. Where is their reward? Where is the happy ending? I guess I shouldn't feel selfish that I'm happy now. Finally. But, I do.

I wish that obedience=happiness.

I wish that life were 2+2=4.

What do you do when you do everything right and it doesn't matter?

The answer is-it does matter.

You are still YOU.

Even if your whole life is destroyed and everything you had is now nonexistent. You still have your own soul. Your own respect and honor and dignity and dreams.

Most important you still have Heavenly Father.

The one person where 2+2 always =4.

There will NEVER come a day that HE will leave YOU.

That day that HE says 'Enough! It's just to hard' Will NOT come.

I have always know HIM and believed in HIM but till I have personally felt my world crushing down upon me and felt as though there is no such thing as standing up and being able to move forward with another breath; That my life has lead up to that one miserable minute and I sucked.

But, as they say 'When life gets too hard to stand-kneel.'

It's true. The day I stopped believing in HIM but the day I BELIEVED HIM.

I won't say that it happened when I wanted it to; It felt like forever. But, one day after months and lots of kneeling I felt a little better. After lots and lots of work a bit more healing came. The situation had not changed much as it often doesn't, but my soul could find little reasons within myself to find answers. Answers I might not have wanted but they were what I should do.

Isn't that what we all want?

A solution that makes everyone happy.

Absolution is rarely ours.

After I did everything I could I got the answer that saved me-

'Your family is not on the end of my to-do list. I am with you every minute of your struggle and I do not sit on the side lines. You will need this someday and so will your family and now I know where you will go. You will come to me. You are not forsaken and I love you.'

When I felt this or heard it in my heart or mind or however. My whole world changed. I still had to live in my situation but I knew that I could endure. I knew it wasn't always going to be this hard. I knew it wasn't going to be this awful forever. I knew that if I could do this with faith and work I would someday be happy again. I had experienced not a change of heart but I knew the eternal perspective, in that one still moment and I felt that this horrid time in my life was short (but important) in the eternal realm.

I knew that I was was capable of doing this.

And through our deepest sorrow can be our greatest joy, for we know both.

*I know this is UN-blog like but I think that some experiences should be shared and I felt the need to share this today. That experience happened over a year ago and I remember the very words daily. I am lucky in this moment and hopefully a few thousand more lucky ones to come. I hope that in darkness you know not to look for the light at the end of the tunnel; Because you are the light you just have to make it through the tunnel...and someone that knows the way is holding your hand.

Hold tight.

Does this look like Georgia??

2010-02-20T11:02:00.000-05:00

Last Friday was one of the craziest days in Georgia history! It snows here once a decade. And, our first winter we received almost 5 inches of pure white perfection! It was FANTASTIC-well, we thought it was! One of our gas stations ran out of gas. People wouldn't leave their homes, and the ones who did got caught going 20 miles an hour behind Granny. There was no milk left in the supermarkets and our ward Valentines party got called off!!

We had a 'ball' anyways!!

We trekked up our street (luckily we had snow gear and I have the coolest snowboarding coat in the history of the world) with 30 Red Heart Mylar balloons to give out to the kids in our ward that live in our subdivision. It was quite a sight! The snow flurries and the four of us being trailed by a massive grouping of balloons!! WHY did I forget my camera!??

We played late and then had hot baths with hot chocolate!

The best part was seeing our kids interact with the other kids who have never seen snow before!!! It was a great night-it melted the next day!!

its gonna suck

2010-01-29T14:11:00.000-05:00

We need to potty train, kill the binky and move into a big bed.

Im not looking forward to it.

I don't like babies but the transition is so much work on me.

Its gonna suck.

Anyone wanna take her and give her back when she can wipe herself?

That would be great.

Thanks...

2010-01-15T15:30:00.000-05:00

Prince and Princess.

Or should I say crazy one and crazy two...

Those were lame....

2010-01-07T13:53:00.000-05:00

Those were lame New Years Resolutions.

Here are some more.

When he initiates I will will initate twice.
When my children scream 'MOM' I was say 'Yes' instead of 'WHAT??'
I will shave my legs at least once more a week than Sunday mornings during winter.
I will go to the Temple and I will be worthy and I will be focused and I will have my babies in there knowing-to their limited understanding-what we are doing there and why.
I try to cook something new once a week.
I will potty train Miss. Allie without cursing. (I'm shooting for a miracle here folks)

New Years Resolutions!

2010-01-01T10:50:00.000-05:00

Every year I make these and usually do a pretty good job of accomplishing them. One year was to just keep both the kids alive and happy-indeed they are alive and hopefully, happy! One year it was to learn to eat with chop sticks and not judge people. One was to pick a big cleaning job once a week to avoid 'spring cleaning'!
This year will be to GO TO THE TEMPLE and BE SEALED AS A FOREVER FAMILY! And do it with a bang. No in and out. I want to be as prepared as I can before I go. If anyone has any great books to recommend I'd love it! And even though it will be in UT and pretty much only family is attending I want a killer party dress for after at the dinner.
And, this year I'd also like to be a little more fun. These past few years have been a struggle for me and I haven't felt as fun as I want to. We've also been a bit poor. So, this year I might finally go sky diving or actually get into the shark cage to forgo my fear of sharks. Maybe, do another triathlon that almost kills me. Something-scary and wicked fun!!!
We will see!!
Happy 2010!!
I expect you to be the best year of my life yet!!

Our little Christmas in the South...

2009-12-25T21:50:00.000-05:00

This year after living in a hotel for the better part of the summer and being unemployed for a long time (a long time for us anyway) Jaxon and I decided that we wanted to see our savings account with more than cobwebs again and chose not go get each other gifts. Instead we did extra nice things for each other all day. Well, mostly just he just did nice things for me. I got to sleep in a bit, I got a nap, I got to take us to my friends house for a meal of scones and quiche,(which I like) and I got to sit on the couch after I put our dinner in the oven and read while Jaxon did the rest. Tomorrow will be his day and I think breakfast in bed will start it out dandy.
You see my one of my biggie 'love languages' is 'acts of kindness' This goes a looongg way in our house. He buys me flowers that will die in a week and I'm thankful. He vacuums the house and I'll pretty much do anything he wants. We have been trying to get the children to understand that service is another way to say 'I love you'.
This babies woke early (KORBIN WOKE EARLY) and in this house we have an eight o'clock rule-if you wake before eight you can tip toe to the fireplace (yea, we have one=) and get your stocking and bring it to mom and dads room and open it in there but you have to wait for everyone else for gifts. FYI Our tree is in a different part of the house than the stockings so he wouldn't pass the gifts!!
When we woke Miss. Allie we could hardly pry her from her stocking to go and see her wonderful play kitchen!! She just was not interested! Jaxon finally picked her up and carried her into the formal sitting room with the tree and the lovely display of gifts and ONLY THEN was she happy we took her away from her stocking!
We didn't have tons to open but what the children got was everything that they wanted. Korbin hasn't asked for anything else ALL YEAR-just a wii. In the spring it was 'If I'm good Santa will bring a wii' in the fall it was the same and last night in his earnest prayers he spoke with reverence 'Heavenly Father I am a good boy and I listen to my mom and dad and teachers and I really really want a wii-but I'm gonna need lotsa controllers for my friends, so don't forget about that too.' We laughed as we put it under the tree and wrapped all the nun chucks and chargers and games. Im not a 'gamer' and after giving Game Stop enough money to pay their rent for a month it doesn't look like my chances are good.
Our Christmas was a quiet one-as quiet as we get and I loved it. I like that we read several Christmas stories throughout the day and I like that its focused on Christ and we don't go crazy with gifts.(I like it when the kids aren't overwhelmed with junk that parents think they should have when the kid really only wanted this or that) I like the way we do Christmas. I like that I get to spend it with people I adore. I like that the swaddleing babe who saved the world, saved me. I love Christmas.

Salvation...

2009-12-18T15:15:00.000-05:00

My last Christmas was very different. Jaxon and I weren't doing so hot (understatement of the year) and things were very hard for me. Feeling in the Spirit Christmas was not super, AND I FREAKING LOVE CHRISTMAS! If someone would have told me that I would be in Georgia with Jax. Happily! In a new pretty house and a new career and we WOULD BE PLANNING FOR A SPRING BREAK SEALING. I would have told you to stop being mean to me.
The year before last-everything I'd ever known and believed in was challenged. Last year-it was coming slowly back inside of my heart and this year, Its here. In abundance. I have had an intense 27 years but I choose to look at my crows-feet (damn things) as coming from the wonderful joys I have experienced. I have always loved Korbin and Allie but to know inside, what I have endured for them to have the life they have- makes me love them more. To look at an imperfect (by allot) face in the mirror and know that its still a good face. A face that knows Father in Heaven intimately, a reflection that knows despair and has slowly risen out of the ashes being held by Him is a face I'm okay with seeing tomorrow.
To look at my lovey. Who was, is, and always will be-my lovey. To see how he works himself in every aspect now. Spiritually, mentally and physically. To witness someone who had everything-lose it and then day by day earn it back. In my book he deserves to be looked at now with honor. I cant wait till we have the priesthood in our house for the first time. I can't wait to see him want to baptize our children.
Christmas is about the world finally receiving it's salvation. Salvation comes. Slowly or quickly it does come. This year I am very excited to be celebrating it with my lovey, my Korbin and my Miss. Allie.
If I were to die tomorrow I'd want the people I'd loved to know without any doubts-I loved my Savior and I worked for that relationship. I loved the Gospel, in the scriptures it says 'we are delivered from our sorrows' and I get that. Ive felt it and not only tasted it I chewed and swallowed it. I never want to die and have the door open and have Christ say 'Do I know ye?' My goal is for him to throw those doors open before I've hit the sidwalk and shout 'Brittney, we've been waiting! My friend, my sister,-Welcome.' I would want you to know that Im totally innaproptate and totally fine with that-If I want to wear a big hat Im gonna and I love what I love with no excuses. I have always felt that you only have one life-you'de better hustle if you wanna make it awesome. But, for the first time in my adult life I can say that Im feeling it (watch someone's gonna call me cause I ticked them off=)) I have worked so hard to learn and grow and like who I am and where Im at and there have been many road blocks but I just collect them now and keep on goin-cause at least finally-I know where I am going...

Santa Keys...

2009-12-15T19:59:00.000-05:00

Every year for The Mommy Entourage I want to do something Holiday Specific and creative. This year I picked Santa Keys. I have the antique skeleton key shipped from the United Kingdom and then I clean it and glitter it. Then it goes into a natural wood keepsake box with a Santa poem and ribbon. It makes a great gift and the fact that they are one of a kind cant be beat. I loved making them. Each one is so different from another and I was able to get a bunch of different styles of boxes as well. They've sold decently well here but now I have a few left I posted on facebook. Aren't they charming?

Thanksgiving Break...

2009-12-15T19:53:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving came and went. I didn't feel amazing and my fancy friend from London Mrs. Nyia Hicken came over for dinner in a skirt while I dined in sweats. Poor thing-she will have to come over again when I don't suck!Dinner was okay but the next day was the best. The kids decided on oven smores-best idea ever...

HALLOWEEN in DECEMBER!

2009-12-15T19:42:00.001-05:00

Yes-on top of candy I had to bake 'monster' cookies. I bake them for every holiday and call them something diffrent!
Then Miss. Allie and I had luuch with Ninja Korbin at his school.
Then Miss. Allie had a meltdown-this is usual. Notice not a real costume? Refused to wear leotard, crown and tore her fairy wings. That was nice. So, she rocked a regular outfit from Gymboree. A fairy ballerina-sorta.

Southern Nuclear

2009-12-06T11:21:00.000-05:00

I was going through pictures of this summer and I found one of the only photos my Jaxon has with his new colleagues. These were taken at the time we accepted the position as instructor for Southern Nuclear. Jaxon is now learning how to teach Nuclear Power the civilian way. I thought there was just one way but apparently the Navy likes to do things their own way and jack things up. Here he is (the youngest man ever to do this-I think its awesome/he thinks I'm lame) at the Pinnacle Club (wicked high-end restaurant on the top floor of huge bank) and then at the actual site of Vogtle 1&2. He works for Vogtle 3&4 which haven't even been built yet. They hired 12 guys to go to school to teach power the way they want it taught and then they will be ready when they are hiring for Reactor Operators. Ever since we got here Jaxon has been studying like a crazy person. This school is like the whole 2 years of Nuke school in 6 months. He tests every Friday and has to make a great GPA or we lose our job. Usually, Jaxon does beautifully but we are always holding our breath Thursday night. Last week was the last of those types of tests and now, I believe, they are on to the presentation part of the class. He has to teach his class and instructors on any topic the instructors decide to give him and the fun part is no one has ever done this before. This (Vogtle 3&4) will be the first Nuke Plant to be built in over 30 years in the United States and all the little knobs and switches that you see in the movies are now all being done by huge flat panel touch screen monitors. (sorta like Star Trek) That sucker costs Billions of dollars so these boys are really the pioneers of this new technology in the states. I love that he loves this job, I love that it challenges the heck out of him, even on bad days, because I can see his growth and confidence. We are very lucky and I am happy that after 6 miserable years in the Navy-something paid off!!!

Q&A

2009-11-01T17:36:00.001-05:00

Gee, Im happy Im not pregnant but what if I was? I would be in a Phsyc ward.Is it vain to want to have a really big party when your getting sealed? I hope not.
Is it wrong to make your husband read Twilight? Not if he likes it after 50 pages.
If you forgive someone does that mean you have to still let them in your life? No.
If you don't let them in your life does that mean you really didn't forgive them? No
Does everything really happen for a reason or do we say that to make life easier? It happens for a reason even if its hard.Is it mean to throw away your kids Halloween candy after a week?
Do you take it as a compliment when someone says 'You look really good-for having two kids' or do you want to slap them? I want to slap them.
Is there really a place where magic never dies? Disney Land does not count- ???? Under our dining table where we build forts.
Does having allot of money just mean your not helping enough people? How much money and probally.
Is there any person who has a two year old and doesn't want to rip all of their hair out? (their own hair not the kids hair) I hope not because I am going to be bald by three.
Does everyone roll over and look at their husband and say to themselves every morning 'You were the best decision I have ever made'? I do somedays and I hope everyone does somedays but because of PMS that might be impossible.
Does everyone get super spiritually charged from Sacrament meeting? I said I have kids right? Im just happy to take the sacrement and get out of there with all my buttons still closed and my pantyhose not snagged.
These were the thoughts that ran through my head on the way home from church today, I am trying to see if something is wrong with me and how many random things just fly around in there. Hopefully somethings not wrong with me.

HE DID TELL ME I WAS PREGNANT!!

2009-11-01T11:56:00.000-05:00

At my Urology appointment this past Friday I had a bit of a fright! I was asked to pee in a cup, like always. Then started my crazy exams, like always. And when the lab was done looking for white blood cells and all that other jazz in your urine the doctor walked in and said 'Well we found something we weren't really looking for! Congrats it seems your pregnant' I loudly responded with my famous 'WHAT THE HELL?'
He went right on to say how wonderful this is and I say I need a police escort home so I don't murder my husband and right then, as if on cue, his sweet angelic nurse comes in with a worried expression and says 'No, no Doctor its Mrs. Nelson in room ?403? (I cant remember what room because all I was hearing was my heart beating again)
He looks at me painfully and sadly says's he's so sorry and I jump off the table and give him a hug telling him that I wont sue for the 'Serious distress caused by his false diagnosis!'
As overjoyed as I was he could have told me I was going to have my bladder removed and I would have taken the news happily. I had a great time texting my Jaxon and Mom and Jaime my little trick and so I thought I would give you guys a little Halloween prank too! I am happily NOT PREGNANT AND NEVER WILL BE and am making plans for a hysterectomy as soon as insurance will pay for it so I will never feel my heart beating in my feet and my head at the same time while trying to breathe!! Yea, for my period coming any minute-Ive missed you!

#*%^

2009-10-31T13:15:00.001-04:00

Guess who's Uroligist just told her she was pregnant?

HALLOWEEN AT THE INSANE ASYLUM!

2009-10-25T19:27:00.000-04:00

I love this new job, house, life everything and here's why-Last night we had a wicked Halloween Party! We had good 100 people come over to have a great time! Our home faces down a cultdesac with about 7 houses in between but then the end part is still undeveloped land (just paved). Because it was 520 feet (thanks Jax for measuring that out) from our house to the party we set up the tent we use for The Mommy Entourage Craft shows and baked to our hearts content. We used luminarios to separate the entertainment from the seating and had a ball!
We had hired Pyroteque, a fire performing group, to host our party this year (I'm thinking Hot Air Balloon Rides next year?) We were so so happy we did, those guys did freakin awesome and it was a party no one will forget soon. We asked people to bring their favorite Halloween treat and then my January (my long time friend from our pregnancy days with the boys) came over from Charleston to help and have a too-short visit. We made Spiderweb cupcakes, Halloween frosted cupcakes, Grave bones brownies, Orange colored pumpkin rice crispy treats on skewers dipped in chocolate, 'Dog food' muddy buddies mixed with popped corn served in cans decorated with painted Halloween polka dots.
Up the street, in the house was showing 'The Scary Godmother'. Apple Cider and Hot chocolate was served up by pumpkin bowling in the dining room. We did have bobbing for apples but my darling Miss. Allie soaked herself by taking a bite out of each and every apple and throwing it back so that was a no-go. I am so very grateful to Jaxon (and mine) work friends Travis and Angie who came early for dinner and got put to work. I could have never done it with out the help of Jan and Angie especially-I was a crazy person about 15 minutes before the party-I'm sure its really hard to imagine that huh?
Korbin had a total blast and told everyone that this was his birthday party cause his mom and dad are cheap-I'd like to know of any other 6 year olds that get fire people instead of a birthday- little turd! Anyways, I loved this and cant wait to have kick butt parties year after year!!

And my first Birthday in my new life...

2009-10-17T20:42:00.000-04:00

We have been very lucky to make quick friends here and were able to find a great gal (who just left for BYU Idaho-why do they always do that?!) to babysit for us on my Birthday. Jaxon took the children to a birthday party accross the street while I had TWO whole hours to get ready alone-it was the start of a blissful night...
We then ate at a little crappy seafood restraunt (That I picked out because of the local catch) and spent the night walking on the Savannah River talking about our future. In typical Jaxon style; I recieved a 4 inch Pink Kershaw Knife to keep in my purse and breakfast in bed for a few days.
It was a perfect birthday Im am actually quite happy to be 27!
And don't mind the boobs-they are going to be put away for life after this winter so deal...

Lookie what I found~

2009-10-17T20:28:00.000-04:00

I just found our camera and Im too tired to clean my house tonight for updated pictures but here are some from right when we got here and saw our house for the first time...

The only one...

2009-09-23T23:19:00.000-04:00

Tonight was long. It was loud and messy and everything it is every night and I was exhausted. Jaxon has a new study schedule in which he leaves before we wake and comes home around eight (bedtime) Monday thru Thursday. But, then has an early day on Friday and the weekend with us. I've already done nuke school and sea tours and can totally handle it but tonight I was just so DONE with my two little crazies. There was nothing particularly bad-just allot and I feel like I don't get enough breaks.
I don't know how many countless times I have sighed under my breath 'If only I had a nanny'. I often catch myself sneaking in to the office to work on The Mommy Entourage even though the beauty of it is that I do it when they are sleeping. I get so sick of Miss. Allies countless screeching and demands (she is almost two, after all) and I just want someone more 'qualified' to do this endless non-profit job. I am usually quite happy being with my kids and I like them on top of loving them (and yes, that is different-I love well...some family members-but liking is a whole different story) but if I could get any sort of 'help' gardener/ chef/ housekeeper/ nanny I think it would be a close tie between housekeeper and nanny------till tonight.
I boycotted my dinner dishes and decided to give my tired self a girl movie. I had gotten 'The Nanny Diary's' a few days ago and wanted some brain rest (that's what we call crap TV cause you don't have to use your brain-just watch it mindlessly) I actually really liked it and a part of it really got to me.
When my kid is sick-I'm the one sitting on the bathroom floor holding them all night so they don't touch the cold tile. When they are hurt-I am administering first aid and 'Mommy's magic kisses' and when they want just about anything it is always "MMMMMOOOMMMM"
Now, I understand that most every person that reads this blog is a regular person and has no nanny's and I sound foolish; but tonight made me grateful for all the times I actually schedule in a play time with my kids. To really play. Being with Miss. Allie all day and being WITH her is quite another story. She loves to play under her crib, but not alone, only when someone is with her and we can giggle together. So, as I pick up my skirt tomorrow and crawl my big black chick butt under there I will be glad that I'm not paying someone else to 'imagine' with my daughter. I have never heard the words 'No I want her to fix my owie' or 'I want her to put me to bed' because they know of no other than me and their daddy. 24/7 364 Korbin asked just the other day what exactly day care was and if he could hang out there or not because half his friends from kindergarten go there AFTER school. (holy freakin-long day for those poor kids) I was giddy that he didn't know what it even was.
When I worked and Jaxon wasn't home I always made sure I had an agreement (meaning pay) with another mother whom I was friends with and our kids got along with and it seemed to them just like an extended play date at a really fun kids house. I just really did not want them somewhere where I wouldn't KNOW for a fact that they were happy. Korbin asked once if I could go back to work again so he could hang out with his buddy more, but that was it.
And when I'm old and decrepit I will know that I'm not looking back with a 'kinder' sort of memories that keeps only the good ones I will be filled up with all the messes, bugers, puke, poo, laughter, fighting, sweat, and lovable wit (that came from Jaxon and I have no part in that at all) and I will remember every story they tell because I WAS ALWAYS THERE...

Dammit!!!

2009-09-23T14:06:00.001-04:00

Yes, Shannon and my mom-I am the cursing friend. I know. I'm going to hell. I will get on that right away.=) But I have reasons for my potty mouth. I finally got moved in and my stuff and settles and the computer fixed-meaning whole new computer and then...
I lost my camera.

No, our new house, job, ward, friends, school, The Mommy Entourage is not pretend we really do live here and now with all that money I have from moving cross country and buying a house I get to buy a new camera. So, dammit don't expect great pictures any time soon. Dammit, dammit, Dammit!

Hell had an ice storm...

2009-09-11T20:58:00.000-04:00

Hell had an ice storm! Though it has kinda been brewing for a few years; lets just start from the...start. In the year 1982 I was born to a domestic goddess of a mother. If we lived somewhere ugly I would never remember it because if she could use a paint brush, sewing machine, or a hot glue gun it would become beautiful. However I always felt that I never inherited that 'gene'-oh yes, I have pretty good taste and I know how to arrange things well and have always had an eye for a great product but to make it myself seemed out of my league.
Then I became poor. Enlisted Navy Wife with 2 kids poor. I still just didn't think I could make something as pretty as I could buy it. And if I wait long enough-everything goes on sale. But, then I attended many Super Saturdays in the Relief Society and started to pay attention when friends would mention that they put something together. Through time I felt a little different about not weather I could make something as beautiful but if I wanted too.
My family is a full time job yet I like to work, unfortunately here in Augusta the need for a make-up artist is small and I don't get a large opportunity for growth. So through much thought and a bit of trial and error-Don't look too closely at my first batch!! I have finally decided that I CAN create boutique quality gifts that have my flair. I'm always looking at decor and nick knacks, Holiday crafts and thinking to myself 'If I did that I'd do it this way or that'. As of October third 'The Mommy Entourage' will debut at a local festival favorite The Oliver Hardy Days. I am not looking to create an empire but I looking to make my neck of the world a better, sweeter and more beautiful place. And lets not kid around- Im not doing this non-profit! Look to further postings on products that I'm working on (loving that extra bedroom/now my work space) and ideas that come. I cant wait to start to next step in my evolution as a Woman and a Working Mom.

WORST MOTHER EVER!

2009-09-01T20:23:00.000-04:00

Oh Yes, I totally am and here's why:
Last week I posted that my Korbin was sicky. Well this little fever turned into a major rash but he already has eczema! So, no worries we slap some of his usual ointment on his body and send him back to school on Friday. BTW he was home driving me crazy for two days acting fine just with some itching. On Friday, not even ten minutes after he gets off the bus to school the lovely school Nurse calls me for the second time that week "Mrs. Nelson obviously there is something very wrong with your little boy, he is scratching himself raw-DIDN'T you notice before you MADE him get on the bus? Come right away and get him!" Well the evening before his hands started to swell-odd but that's why God gave us Benadryl. OK he must have an allergic reaction but he can still learn, cant he? I call the doctor we've never met and explain the symptoms and guess what he says--It looks like he has HAND FOOT AND MOUTH! WHAT? Does Korbin go to school in a third world country? We look it up and the only way that's contagious is through-hold your breath-feces. Eeeeewwww. They say its not really contagious and all they would do is give him Tylenol so keep him happy and send him to school on Monday. We have to go to our already scheduled appointment on Monday for his immunization papers (whole other can of worms about how retarded Georgia is about that crap) I do not send Korbin to school cause he's still funky lizard boy. We show up to the new and fancy Doctors office and they look at him and say "Does your throat hurt?" Korbin says nope and he has no mouth sores or anything but they want to do a throat culture anyway. TWO minutes later the Dr. comes in and says 'Mrs. Nelson did you know your son has SCARLETT FEVER?" Yeah, I know and I thought I'd ignore it-OF COURSE I DIDN'T KNOW I CALLED YOU AND YOU SAID HE HAS HAND FOOT AND MOUTH!!! The doctor looks and me blankly and says "Yep he probably has both." This calls for a curse word-What the hell!!!
Korbin tell him he feels great if he could stop feeling like human sandpaper. They send me with a week of antibiotics and the Dr. says he will be great in a few days. I get in the car and apologise to Korbin profusely that I didn't rush him to the hospital sooner and have my sweet, handsome, smart, funny, delightful boy made whole again. He looks out the window and just says "Of course you didn't know-your just a mom." haha At least he's well enough to make a joke. I think.

Poor Korbin!

2009-08-26T21:57:00.001-04:00

Today was the day! We were ready! Weeks of preparation! Weeks of earning pledges for his schools fundraiser! And then..
Yesterday at one o'clock the school nurse calls to tell me my little handsome cowboy is running a 100 degree fever. Yes, the dream of crossing the finish line in first place is fading fast. Korbin is so upset at his body, he keeps telling the good germs to hurry up and win the fight with his bad germs so his fever will go down and he can participate in the Boosterthon Fun Run with his friends.
This morning he crawled into bed in the wee hours of the morning burning up and as miserable as can be. He slept a good part of the early afternoon and when he rose he came to me with tears in his sickly little eyes and says "Mom, they ran it without me and now I have to tell all the people that gave me money for my school that I lied to them and didn't race today." I hugged him and tried to convince him that there was no lie at all and they would understand that he got sick. He still was so upset that he was sick and then came up with a marvelous plan...
In the coming weeks for FHE we will host the first Nelson Family Olympics. Korbin will participate in all events and show the good people who donated money to his class that it was not in vain and he is going to EARN IT. I am proud of my little prince who made a lemon into lemonade. I am happy that he came up with an other idea to complete the challenge. I love him and will show pictures (hopefully) of his success at our Olympics.

I want to see the pictures too...

2009-08-23T22:03:00.001-04:00

We are moved in, the paint is nearly finished (It might never be done because I decide on a different decor direction daily) the boxes were unpacked and given away within the first 72 hours of the movers being here (can you tell we wanted to stop living in suitcases?) I have everything up where I want it and have even hosted a dinner party and still I have not one picture to show you all our new world.
We unpacked our very new computer and it decides every few minutes to just flat out stop working. Like someone pulls the plug on it. dead. flat out nothing. annoying. frustrating. infuriating. Tech Support hates me and hates Jaxon even more, and we have to take in into Best Buy and so who knows when anyone will see this 'illusive house'. It is just a regular house on a regular street in suburbia and no one thinks its nearly as exciting as I do but Ive been so excited theses last few months and now to finally live in it and have no one I know that I love be able to share my joy is crappy. I swear it is not a figment of my imagination-we really do live here. If you have a camera phone Ill text you a picture!!! The reason I can type this and not post pictures is that I am using Jaxons work laptop which I'm not supposed to be on anyway! I cannot download anything on this baby, although it is shiny and pretty.
ILL POST THE MINUTE I CAN AND ID BETTER HEAR LOTS OF COMMENTS!!

Write it gently...

2009-08-05T23:07:00.000-04:00

When I write the story of my family I think it sometimes might be rated R. Sometimes I look like a saint and others the devils advocate. But I think that when I am old enough to sit down and let the pen run, my memory will be kind...
I hope that it is that way. I hope that when I write about our time in the Navy-something I never wanted to be a part of. The trials of our marriage and for that matter children. The time we spent months and months without a paycheck (that would be now) making it work. I will remember the kids and I making peanut butter sandwiches for a picnic and not the 110 degree heat and Miss. Allie pooping out of her swim diaper and other parents dive bombing in to get their kids out because I have the icky little girl. I will remember that we got lost so many times but found the coolest places to eat and museum's to tour and we learned that most any kid at most any park is an instant friend. I will hopefully look back on Washington as a huge growing experience and a test of faith in every way. I will respect the military and I will teach my children how to be grateful and humble for their freedom.
Only three years ago we moved from Charleston; now one of my most favorite places in the world. Yet, if you had asked me 6 months after we moved there while Jaxon was studying like crazy for Nuke school and I has a newborn and almost no friends (and I was fatter) I would have told you I was in hell. I would have told you I hated the giant bugs and being alone so much and I hated that we had no furniture (if you knew us then you are laughing, because you know all we had besides dishes is a futon from someone in the ward and a crib.) I found happiness in my beautiful healthy child and I made friends-some of you are my dearest to this day. (hello Jaime and January) I learned how to bargain shop- well, on sale. I learned how to be a self starter and teach Korbin to have fun no matter where he was. I now love that place and hold all those 'growing up' experiences very close to my heart. Washington will be like that eventually.
When my children are grown I will remember how I could feel their hot breath against my neck in the mornings (after they scare the wits out of my sneaking in my bed) I will remember how they laughed so hard today when I slipped in front of our new house when I was letting in the fridge delivery men and the two guys acted like I was in cardiac arrest while my children knew just by the look on my face I was fine and they got a ball out of the whole thing. I love that my Jaxon gets this look on his face when we realize that rhythmic sound of the crazies sleeping means we are sorta alone. We are still in a hotel, we still have not received a paycheck and we are broke like we were when we were first married. I'm not a huge fan of sugar coating things but I think your mind a sort of snapshot of what you want to remember. It remembers the lessons and you grow but you don't feel the hurt or stress of whatever it is making you grow. You body forgets labor pain so why shouldn't your soul be kind to its memories? When I look back on this with my wrinkles I will laugh and think 'How did we do it?" and Ill know to put it gently on paper and finish with "The four of us will do whatever it takes because we loved each other."

Official HOMEOWNERS!

2009-08-03T23:23:00.000-04:00

Today was the day!!! We are finally real homeowners and its funny that we didn't feel like we were signing our life away and this heavy burden of hundreds of thousands of debt hanging over us. Well after reading that sentence I might now! We walked in and 30 minutes later it was done. I am beyond excited. Its real. Our life here is real. And baby-am I enjoying it.
8:00 a.m a run through new neighborhood
9:00 a.m. painters come in to 'Brittneyize' the formal dining room a beautiful limeish green called 'Lemon Verbana' (why its called lemon anything is wierd because its green) and my kitchen will be Duke Red from the chair railing up to the rest of the crown molding. (Jaesi its not very much; we have crown molding on anything that stands still-I promise a red kitchen rocks!) and Korbin's ceiling is Paris blue. We will later do the walls a Viking blue with stripes but that dang 5 year plan Jaxons got me on is making me wait. Miss. Allies room will be waiting till she gets out of her crib for the hot pink princess room.
This evening we went to the house so Jaxon could start epoxying the garage floor-it will be his shop after all! While the kids and I hung solar lantern's in the flower gardens. It was wonderful to sit on MY DRIVEWAY with MY FAMILY and see MY NEIGHBORS walking their dogs. Everyone was so friendly to us and I'm sure we just oozed excitement from our pores. Korbin was inviting everyone who walked past to come see his new room. Some kids actually took him up on it and he made instant friends. (He obviously gets that from his talkative mother)
I wanted to celebrate and told Jaxon we could go to dinner anywhere he wanted. Not to change his traditional character we ended up a Sonic. It was fine though-the kids didn't need to be shushed sit politely they could run around outside in this glorious Georgia sun. I love it here. I am so happy we listened to Heavenly Father and followed this job and this house and this ward. This is where we are supposed to be.

if I ever go to prison...

2009-08-02T20:37:00.000-04:00

If I ever go to prison I'd be a great cook...I can boil noodles and make a mean egg ham and cheese sandwich and I can cook a million things with a microwave and a mini fridge. The other night we had baked (sort of) ham, potatoes, and cut up veggies and chocolate covered strawberries for dinner all from my trusty little appliances.
I know how to make towel animals...
I know every single type of snoring from all three of my loud sleepers. Restless...content...good dream...stuffy...bad dream...dry mouth...
I know that peeing alone can be a luxury and if I can get a whole entire bath alone I should kneel in thanks...
That my children have no problem whatsoever expressing themselves...
That air conditioning one foot from a bed is freezing and therefor if I go to prison I'm requesting the furthest bunk...
That you really can keep four people in one room and not kill each other and the biggest lesson I learned is...
the only reason people in the olden days could have 14 kids in one room is because they were NEVER in the room. They were out working. So the only thing they did in that room was sleep. And thus the parents could make #15 because their little dream team was dead to the world asleep and they could be as wild and crazy as they wanted becuase everyone else was too pooped to wake up. I learned that my children do wake up and aren't all that pooped and that NO we can't live in one room or I will be begging social services to knock on our door!!!
So this week when I'm in my new big house I will be happily on one side of it with Jaxon while the crazies are on the other side and never again (unless we want to go on a trip) will we be having a wake up at 2:00 alone time meeting. EVER AGAIN...
no wonder why I'm always tired...

GUESS WHAT?

2009-07-29T18:40:00.001-04:00

GUESS WHAT?
This is the way Korbin usually starts any sentence. Guess what mom? And then he proceeds to talk as if he ever stopped in the first place. That's what I do all day long-I hear GUESS WHAT MOM? I know he says things that are important and meaningful and I love listening to the little guy but honestly today-I just wish he would shut up. I am with him and Miss. Allie all day every day and I know already that it rained on us today and we fed the turtles and that Miss. Allie is one and that its really hot here and that I'm getting 'puffier' and so on and so forth. In fact I am escaping them right now to write this blog but he probably hasn't noticed my leave and will just keep talking anyway. Its constant and its annoying. If I am ever on the phone with anyone(and I haven't been on the phone alot because I would just complain) that is his cue to be in dire need of something and must speak up. And because I am TRYING to teach he stubborn little devil manners he just says 'Excuse Me' louder and louder till I want to whack him with the phone. I'm just tired and they don't seem to be at all...why oh why...

IT CAME

2009-07-20T16:00:00.000-04:00

Well your prayers worked!!!! Clearance came bright and early this morning!!! Now we can close on our house on August 3rd!!!! YEAAAAAA!!!!!

what do I say....

2009-07-19T19:46:00.001-04:00

You know how blogs are supposed to be the 'sugar coated' version of our real lives well today its not.
Yesterday we were supposed to move into our new house in this new part of the country and start our new lives. Well...I am sitting in the hotel laundry place waiting for our clothes to dry and feeling sorry for myself. Lets start at the beginning shall we:

Four days before we move to Georgia Cheryl Byers (whom I really like)for Southren Nuclear Human Resources calls in a fluff about Jaxon still not being cleared for work that starts on the following Monday. She told us that Jaxon had to take some extra tests to clear that we wasn't crazy since he has depression and is on medication. Of course we were expecting this and said we would (we in all this really means Jaxon but I'm suffering here to so I get to say we) meet with any doctor from SLC to Augusta but in order for us to get there on the start date we had to start driving. She connected us to the company in charge of clearance and we held out an extra day to see if they would get on the ball and get Jaxon in for a appointment under the assumption that we would be moving our entire family across the country within 48 hours and this needed to be be EXPEDITED! I am not one to mess around-seriously if you need something done you ask me cause it happens, my tolerance for others with my life in their hands who dilly dally is not so hot.
We get in touch with the woman in charge of Jaxons file (whom I hope to never meet) and he makes himself as clear as water that he will do anything to receive this clearance and start on time. We leave-if you've read my other posts its been eventful. Moving on...
We get here and immediately get in touch with this person and she says something to to the affect that-oh, she didn't know where he was and couldn't schedule any appointment without talking to him. I am not so understanding towards this being as she has BOTH of our phone numbers and our travel plans for the week. deep breath
They allow Jaxon to start on time with the rest of the class. (He is being taught how to teach the way Southern Nuclear wants it done in the civilian world) He cannot turn on the beautiful new laptop they gave him and further more we don't officially work there without clearance so that means NO PAYCHECK. Which means NO CLOSING ON OUR HOUSE!
He goes to the appointment-a week later! again deep breath Brit! Thinks it is a success. Clearly not crazy and can more than handle this job and is ready to get going. We have every reason to believe the next Monday we will have received clearance and we can start relocation and put a final closing date on our home that we were so encouraged by the company to purchase the week we came out in June! As of this past Friday and countless phone calls back and forth we have heard nothing.

We prayed earnestly about this job and this move and this house and this ward. We felt this is where we should be. We have had every intention of settling here to raise our children and Jax to work here for a number of years. Now, if we continue to not receive a paycheck and wait and wait and wait for clearance we will be forced to look for another job. This devastates me. Jaxon. Us. If we could just live in a hotel forever that would be fine that they are taking sweet time but we cannot and should not have to live here any longer. Our savings-thank goodness we had some! But our sweet savings is being depleted quickly and if we have to make another move we have to do it fast. We fasted today and we still feel good about being here so if you would like please pray on our behalf. We are trying so hard to be faithful and patient. If we still have no clearance Jaxon will be back on the market as of this week. We really want to make this our home. So that is actually the sugar coated version of how I really feel- I have a few four letter words up my sleeve but its Sunday so your sparred!! Sorry my post are so dang long!!!

a good thing...

2009-07-11T21:09:00.000-04:00

The sweet sound of my sleeping babes...
The little curls on the back of Alexzondras neck as she lays on her tummy cuddling her glow worm...
Korbin's sweaty boy hair that never smells clean enough (and yes I do wash his hair!) pressed against his tanned cheeks...
The two of them being quiet except for the occasional sigh and sniffle...
The happiness of my heart as I see them content waiting for our lives to start again and knowing that even though we are up-rooted and crazy they know we are together and that is all they need to sleep well at night...
its a good thing we have eachother...

Motorcycle Porn...

2009-07-11T09:58:00.001-04:00

I would just like to say that anything one is addicted to is a sin. Isn't that what us Mormons are taught? Its not that caffeine is necessarily bad its that its addicting. So even if you never touched coffee but can't live without half a dozen Mountain Dews a day-you have a problem. Because your addicted to something. Not so serious but one should watch it.
Well we have come to a term used with Jaxon and I-Motorcycle Porn. If he is online he's looking at it. I feel so used, so unappreciated, so alone. Its becoming a real problem. Last night I was icky (I think I'm just getting used to this heat) and asked Jaxon to throw a load in. We live right next to our hotels laundry and its keyed entry and so we just go in and out as a load is being washed. We were supposed to have a mini date and I bought him Oreos and I got the movie Fireproof from a lady in the ward. So, he's gone a LITTLE bit longer than I'd like and when he comes back with a guilty look on his bearded (ew) face he smiles and only says "Sorry that motorcycle porn got me again." And yes I hit him. He will be doing the laundry for the remainder of our stay and I will eat his Oreos. little turd

itsy bitsy...

2009-07-08T20:21:00.000-04:00

Today wasn't any better or any worse. I don't particularly enjoy my daughter when she does the screaming thing-which is always lately-but whatever. That isn't the crappy part about today. Jaxon came home and said we might have to extend closing on our house for ANOTHER WEEK because of the way the paycheck will be coming. Doing a VA loan we can't close without a new paycheck-making sense that they want to know we've got a job to pay off the loan they are approving. But, another week seems just too overwhelming today. It POURED rain all day. Washington was not left behind-we just brought it with us and I can't get away from the damn place. The kids are crazy and for some reason still on Seattle time-going to sleep at midnight and being total nightmares when I wake them up at nine in the morning. I'm just tired of this. I know we have only been in a hotel since Saturday night but be have been away from our stuff and floating for over a month now and I'm done with it. Another EXTRA week seems excruciating.
BUT-I do have a coping mechanism: Every time I want to burst into tears about how sucky this is I turn on my camera and look at my lovely home no one has ever lived in and my master suite with a huge garden tub and walk in closet and I feel a itsy tiny bit better. I can't wait to paint the kitchen red and the formal dining room chocolate and lime. I think the kids rooms will be a crazy theme. With Korbin having Midnight shiny blue on his ceiling so we can hang up his stars and Miss. Allies room is going to be a bit of Hawaiian Paisley with Clear blue/green walls and a big pink canopy over her bed.
Every night when Im lying awake I think of this and that that I'm going to do. Jaxon put us on a 5 year plan. So, Jaxon thinks. I will have it done by Christmas because I'm crazy like that. I feel better just thinking about it. Thanks.

Seriously...Seriously...

2009-07-06T22:18:00.000-04:00

We are here. We are still married and our children have not been put up for adoption. Yet...
We arrived late LATE the fourth of July after four exausting days of endless driving.
Lets start at the begining of the four days-
Great plan: Drive from SLC to Denver to see my witch sister and be more open-minded as she likes to call it. I call it staying with family for a free night and judging boyfriend but we are happy to catch up so off we go...
Wyoming(Oh didnt you hear-Its faster to horse shoe up and over Utah into Wyoming and down to Denver than to drive through the rockies.) So here we are in Wyoming on the interstate and ooops something BIG got chucked out of the bottom of Jaxons piece of sh*# jeep. That would be the DRIVE SHAFT. I dont know much about cars but I do know that a drive shaft is sorta necessary. We freak a bit and slowly (because he can still drive the dang thing) head BACK to the nearest town where we are not above BEGGING some 18 year old kid who works for his dad to fix our heap of scrap for about $400.00 so we can make it to GA. I promise Jaxon a gun when and if we make it and he promises me the first shot-guess what I get to shoot- THE JEEP!
A day and a half goes by- no Colorado-no sister-nothing but waiting for the Jeep.
As I am reminded by our families-we only asked God to get us to Gerogia safely and together we werent more specific and God is a man so get to the details. We pray SPECIFICALLY about everything from the kids to dental plans and head on.
Then next few days werent amazing but I could get struck by lightning if I whine about the regular stuff like Korbin throwing up the minute we get into a hotel pool or Miss. Allie finger painting the car seat with poo.
Then we are on the next to last day where my brilliant husband (did I tell you already he will be teaching people about Nuclear Power?) decided that in St. Louis he goes North towards Chichago and I go south (obvously) towards Memphis and he gets lost for hours on end and almost looses his mind in the ghetto of St. Louis. There was a detour and I took the most practical route but he in his 'rattle trap' took the other way-which makes since to him still if we talk about it-and then could not find our one light town where I had already gotten a room with the kids-Jaxon joined us at midnight so flaming upset I thought he was going to cry.
The last day was the longest because we had to make up for the lovely Wyoming overnighter we had done. 12 hours from St. Louis to Augusta Georgia. The kids were done. I was done. Jax was done. Korbin has not let us forget that he had to miss the fireworks just to go another hotel.
Chuch was lovely-but that is another post because in this one I am venting.
Today I get up to see our new house that they are almost finished with (the walk through is this saturday) and wouldn't you guess-I have a flat tire! I call our realestate agent from heaven and he picks up the kids and I and takes us to our house and then changes the tire. We love that man-another post people-I have no friends so Ill start alot of blogging!
I hobble to the Bridgestone and the ugly man looks at the car and goes 'Whatdddyouknow' (yes all one word) 'Itlookstherelikeyouhavetwoflattires' What did he say~something about TWO FLAT TIRES! YES! That was what he said. DAMNIT!!!!!
(Im not in YW right now so can curse after all this)
Who gets two flat tires in one day I ask-WHO? Have you ever heard of anyone that has had NO money, no home and two flat tires. I have-and she dies in the end! To top it off my antichrist children and going bezzerk and I am crying and calling my mother who is the ever-optimist. Clearly the Lord is just trying to humble me. I AM HUMBLED! I am done-over it-no more. I cant have all this today. I dont know anyone, all our savings is just being eaten by the car devils and I look like crap.
Then Jaxon comes home. better. Then my mom calls with our rembursement check from Southren Company with a few grand to get us by the rest of these 11 days in HELL.
So its not so bad after all. Even though I am sitting in a Hotel Laundrymat typing this while there are a dozen drunk people right outside smoking and talking about the foreign chick on the computer in here. (another post)
LOVE YOUALL AND MISS YOU! Good luck Jackie our prayers are with you-she is pushing out a little lady as of this moment-hopefully!

Someone could die...

2009-06-20T21:55:00.000-04:00

So, here we are just waiting for our lives to start again. Just Waiting. Homeless. (Till we can move to Georgia) Sorta Jobless (because we don't start till July 6th) Kinda Poor (living off savings) AND we are at my parents house. This is the very longest I have been home since I left when I was 17-about a minute after I graduated. My mom visits us wherever we are and that's nice but its a whole different story being here with my whole family- during the summer-for two weeks. I know a whole ton of people who go back home to where they grew up for the entire summer and some of my friends live on the very same street as their parents.
We are not that family. We love each other. BUT........We are ALL VERY different. One of my sweet sisters is a witch. Seriously. A real life casting spells witch. My 19 brother is as innocent as a newborn deer. My 16 year old sister is a almost-professional anime cartoonist of which she devotes her entire life to. So, where do I fit in? Lets not forget my Feature Family Film loving parents. Soft voices are spoken here and the word crap is only used when something is life threatening. Again you ask-where is my place?
I am (as my brother lovingly found appropriate) Cruel la Devil. You know-the crazy black and white fur loving wealthy maniac in 101 Dalmatians. Yep, that's me. We all have our roles. I come into their tranquil (or as I put it-death silence) place of peace and want to get on Hotmail. What? You say! Nope not here, Dad comes downstairs to the basement of ice and puts in his password to temporally suspends 'Net Nanny' so I may get on my email and face book account. Too bad Dad isn't here till six o'clock everyday huh? I am lucky though because I even know what that is.
My family and I do great together watching a G rated movie. Such as now-they are upstairs on a Saturday night watching 'Beverly Hill Chihuahua' as my folks remind us that if we ever have that much money and treat our dogs like that they will disown us. I would disown myself first. We do great at church, when my children look like pictures in a magazine and Jaxon and I look the part of a doting newly married couple. Sorry Utah, As soon as we get in the car off comes the pantyhose (yes I am wearing them in June-I'm at my MOTHERS) and the tie and we rush home to stuff as much food in our bellies as possible and talk about the lady at church wearing an eye patch. We are going to hell. But, Jax and I will be be there as a family!
I hope this 'trip' goes well, we are only three days in after all. I hope I can shut my mouth when my brother goes to Blockbuster and comes home with 'The Work and the Glory' for us to have together time. I hope I can shut my mouth when my mom coddles the crap out of my children (coddling is different than spoiling and spoiling is totally fine for Grandmas) I hope I can shut my mouth when my dad starts talking about how Obama is going to destroy my children's future. I hope I can open my mouth when I can only give righteous topics with encouragement and peace.
This will be a very quiet two weeks for me indeed. I love my family and they love me. We will see what I post in two weeks!!!

SO...

2009-06-15T17:55:00.000-04:00

HIYALL!
After an extremely busy last few weeks and one fabulous trip to Southern Company- Jaxon and I have decided to accept a teaching position for Southern Nuclear. There is a Nuclear energy plant located about an hour south of Augusta Georgia-where we will live. Currently there are two reactors at Plant Vogtle; brilliantly named~1 and 2 starting August first they will break ground on~again original titles~ 3 and 4. Well...they wont be producing power till 2016 but while they are being built that's a whole lot of Senior Reactor Operators that need to license and get ready to man the plant. That's where my lovey comes in-He will be one of the 12 teachers to get the plant going. I was very impressed by this company and everyone we met so naturally I wanted to buy a house.
YEA FOR ME! WE DID JUST THAT! WE BOUGHT A HOUSE!
I am very very excited!!! I'm pretty happy that after living in the Seattle market and seeing houses like this go for $600,000 and knowing that we didn't pay anywhere close to that, makes me giddy!!!! Its four bedroom, three full bath, two car deep garage, a quarter acre back yard, and BRAND SPANKING NEW!! We will close on the 17th of July and then we will start to finally get settled once and for all. LOOK OUT GEORGIA HERE COME THE NELSONS!!!I'm not showing pictures till I get the newest ones tomorrow so stay tuned...

bit of a update...

2009-06-05T23:21:00.000-04:00

A bit of an update is correct being as we have no real news...yet! On Sunday both Jaxon and myself are flying down to Augusta Georgia to meet for a week with Southern Company and house hunt. We got an amazing offer and this is the job I really am hoping Jaxon likes once he is actually on-site.
It's funny that thirty days ago when he was job hunting I didn't like anything he was applying for or any WHERE those jobs were (hello-Colestrip Montana-no way) I was ticked off one night and said 'Fine I'll find you the job I want you to have' and I did. I picked this off of the Nuke Worker website and checked out the company and area and told Jaxon to send in his resume. He looked at me sorta funny and said 'Babe, I applied for that job a week ago!' A week after that some guy called and asked Jaxon for a minute or two of his time; little did Jaxon know that he was on a 6 way phone interview with the board of directors for Southern Company. He got an offer two days later. Without meeting Jaxon. Without a final interview. Nothing. They just said from the first minute they spoke to him they knew he was a perfect fit for the job. SO, off we go to stay in a five star hotel for a week of wine-and dining with the big wigs. I am excited to go even though we haven't made a final decision. Part of me feels like we have been getting a great feeling about Georgia from the beginning so that Heavenly Father has already made the decision. but...
Jaxon has another offer for Topaz Power in Corpus Christi Texas and he traveled down there last week and really liked the plant. I know we will be fine either place but I really like the south.
WOULDN'T MISS.ALLIE MAKE A FABULOUS SOUTHERN BELLE???
We are staying with Jaxon's family in Vancouver for a while then to my family in Utah and then we will make the trek to either Texas or Georgia by the last week of June. The start date of Southern Company's program that Jaxon would be a part of is July 5th, so that means we better haul it!! Good thing I already put a deposit on an apartment in Augusta huh? See I am ready to go. As soon as we get back next Saturday I will let you know which offer we accepted and then you will hear all about the different houses I want to buy!!! till then....

Screaming again...

2009-05-26T20:04:00.000-04:00

Yep I did it again...
I erased everyone's address from my blog thingy...
I should seriously consider writing these dam# things out sometime when Im not moving across the country and holding a crazy baby...
PLEASE SEND ME YOUR ADDRESS SO THAT ONCE AGAIN I MAY ADD YOU...
so you may update yourself to my families craziness...
sorry sorry sorry Im gonna loose my mind...
there is goes...
its going...
long gone...
just send your address please...

I will miss,,,

2009-05-21T00:06:00.000-04:00

Leaving Washington I will miss...
Many of my dear friends and their children.
The clean smell when I walk outside because it is always raining.
Black clothes-they are everywhere just in abundance here.
Getting into a pro-choice/pro-life debate with a stranger on the street of Seattle.
Pine Trees-most of them.
Tree Huggers with thier hemp milk and coffee rocking Birkenstocks with socks!
Central Market.
Zero Gravity Gymnastics.
Korbin's Ms. Nancy (his amazing pre-school teacher from heaven)
Cheap Salmon.
Silverdale 6th Ward.
Girls nights which involve doing nothing productive but talking to buddies.
My therapist. Whom we call 'our crazy doctor'
Knowing sunny days are numbered and doing really fun things on those days.
US Navy for the guaranteed paycheck and 100% medical coverage

Things I will NOT miss...
RAIN!!
Sleeping alone because Jax in on duty or gone to sea.
RAIN!
US NAVY for everything but the paycheck (which wasn't even good) and the insurance.
The crappy people who live on my street who make their kids hold a lit cigarette while they fix a bike and such...
RAIN!
How far everything is-good shopping/good dining/good entertainment
Super high cost of living. 200K for a trailer!!
Fake friends.
Muddy carpet.
RAIN!
Being the 'fairest' people in the country.
Living attached to someone else.

offers...

2009-05-19T22:55:00.000-04:00

So far we have gotten offers in three different cities.

Corpus Christi Texas
Omaha Nebraska
Augusta Georgia

All three are great jobs and we think we could be happy anywhere so where do you think we should live?

Creepiest romance ever...

2009-05-17T22:20:00.000-04:00

I just saw Twilight and I just have one thing to say...
NO ONE IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD WILL HAVE A MORE CREEPY ROMANCE THAN THOSE TWO WEIRDIES! I had some doozies in my day but that tops them all. Creeeepppppyyyy....

no news...yet...

2009-05-13T14:41:00.001-04:00

Sorry everybody that is hanging by a thread just waiting to see whats going to happen to my family-oh wait-that's just me!! We still have no news on pretty much anything. We sort of sold the bullet bike but it fell through. We still dont have orders to move our stuff. We are still interviewing with job prospects but no final offers. We have been told by some crazy lady at PSD (I have no idea what that actually means but its the office that handles getting in and getting out and ID cards and all that sort of paperwork) told us yesterday that the Navy expected us to pay back our bonus um...that's $45,000.00 because we aren't finishing our whole time. Then she said we didn't qualify for separation (severance for the rest of the world) when all along we have been approved to not pay back our bonus because we have put in most of our time and we are also approved for separation. So, now that we have 19 days left nothing has changed except that now we are freaking out and will be living with Jaxons parents till we get a job. I'm sorry to be so bleak but all in all what is what going on; It sounds very negative but in every way this is very challenging. The good part is we are all healty (besides for Jaxons depression which is the reason we are getting out) and the kids are remarkable. We will let you know the MINUTE that we have GREAT news!!

changed my life...

2009-05-10T12:57:00.000-04:00

Its mothers day and I can't help but think of my life 6 years ago-unwed and knocked up with Korbin (yes- I said knocked up because that's what you are when you are preggers and not married!) I had just found out that week after taking 14 pregnancy tests and going to the doctor for the 'stomach flu' that just wouldn't go away. I remember sitting on my bathroom floor in my apartment, all alone and wondering what to do next. I sat there holding my flat tummy and knowing that my life was going to change whether I wanted it to or not.
The Saturday I got my first Mothers Day card from Jaxon (whom was at boot camp) I was hooked up to IVs and was so so sick. I had to give up my promotion and I was too sick to stand up straight. I was elated to get that card-it still however wasn't real to me yet. Mothers day that year came and went with me alone in every way. I was alone in the hospital and in my soul.
A few weeks later I went into my ultrasound to find out the sex of this baby from hell. I had lost 13 lbs and was worried that this kid was going to be a bit 'slow' considering some of my past time activities I had before I knew I was pregnant. (don't worry mom I wasn't doing drugs!)So, needless to say I was more than nervous to go to this appointment. I show up and the nurse looks at me and says something like 'Pregnancy is a time for rejoicing, you just might make the world a better place'. I had not once felt that way. I knew I would love it when it came out but up till then-Korbin was baby 'it'. The ultrasound went great and then this tech with the craziest accent Ive ever heard asked if I wanted to know what sex my baby was. I told him 'it' was a boy, that I just knew and he came around the side of me and hugged my shoulders and said 'Yes, sweet momma! You are having a son and he will be glorious and you will a great mother!' In that moment I had a paradigm and my life changed once more. I knew in that second that my horrible twist of fate could be changed and I was going to do whatever it took to be the best mother the world has ever seen. I left with those black and whites on a mission. From then on the ball was rolling! By the time Korbin came (two weeks after his due date-so like him) on November 10, 2003 Jaxon and I had decided to marry and we lived Charleston South Carolina so Jax could go to Nuke school. I had devoured every baby book I could find and went to every class. Yep- I was the chick and the 'How to change your baby' class. And I needed it! But, one of the biggest changes was that I had come back to church. I knew during that ultrasound what religion I wanted to raise my son in and that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints was it. Coming back was very hard but totally worth it.
If I had not come back I would never have gotten our Miss. Allie. Almost four years later a prayer was said and the answer was her. In one moment our lives changed again-only this time we were really happy about it and a little more prepared! Which was good being as I delivered Alexzondra exactly 9 months after that prayer! If I could go back I would have done a million things differently but that doesn't mean I am filled with regret. Heavenly Father needed these two children to have me as a mother and BOTH of them came right when they needed to. I love them and I am so humbled and grateful to be their mommy. I think they might just turn out pretty great too!

Just plain tired...

2009-05-09T01:31:00.000-04:00

Today Jaxon went to an international job conference in Seattle and had two promising interviews and yesterday he had a fantastic interview as well. It is looking like Jaxon's skills are in demand. That is a great blessing especially in this economy- but we are exhausted. Every few hours one of the head hunters we are working with calls and we rush to various websites to check education, insurance, house values and anything else we can think of and get right back with them to set up interviews or pass. Its always a mad rush because WE ONLY HAVE THREE WEEKS LEFT!! I am going blind. I have literally checked out Baltimore to Corpus Christi and back to Quincy Washington. I personally would really love North Carolina). It seems as if everything looks good in the town then the job is crap or something just is 'off'. We haven't really felt RIGHT about anything. And if we don't start feelin something we are gonna be homeless so we had better get in tune-quick!! I am so tired. I just want to know what is going on with our lives. We still don't have our exact orders yet and we are supposed to leave in 23 days (the problem with that all you non-military folks-is that we can't arrange for packers and movers until we have orders) I am praying we don't get fined for the super short notice we will have no choice but to give. I am happy that Jaxon is putting it to the grind stone and I have to say if I am hunched over the computer delirious about the public education system-or lack thereof-all Jax has to do is put on one of his new suits and I start to feel a tiny bit better!!

Man-nanny for hire!

2009-05-08T01:02:00.000-04:00

Multitasking 'Manny' for hire! Out of the U.S. Navy in three weeks and looking for employment.
Does light housework.
No poop of any kind.
Bedtimes a must.
Can fix anything.
Great at cooking.
Creative discipline tactics.
Bow hunting, Numchuck skills (optional and increase wage.)
SUPER FUN!!!!!
Pay negotiable depending on if he eats at your house!

just dont...

2009-05-05T13:16:00.000-04:00

I would just like to say after a long exhausting conversation with my mother who is the judge of all things holy (which I am 'very far from') I am very happy with my boudoir pictures that I took for my husband and even though I only posted ONE-which she found extremely inappropriate I would just like to say
IF YOU DON'T LIKE WHAT I POST-DON'T LOOK AT MY BLOG! THIS IS MY BLOG AND ILL POST WHATEVER I DARN WELL PLEASE!

Sneak Peek

2009-05-04T21:31:00.000-04:00

Sneak peek to sexy pictures!! Thanks so much amandakphotography!

Seriously...

2009-05-02T23:51:00.000-04:00

My child is either very smart or very slow...
Today in one afternoon he asked
"Do lobsters have eyelids?" Said as if it were imperative to his mental well being.
as well as
"If Tyler's mom pushes out her baby the way you did-can she still pee?" "Can YOU still pee?" said very wide eyed with great concern.
and
"Is Miss. Allie going to grow up and look like you or look like dad because I think your kinda puffy and dad's hair has run away!" Said as if we were looking directly at the Hunchback of Notre Dame.
I love him but he makes us look up the craziest things!!! So to clear up the lobster question- No they do not have eyelids. AND for any of you who watched 'Friends'-when Phobee said that lobsters mate for life and Ross was Rachel's lobster. She was full of crap because the big daddy lobster mates with everybody. He's a man slut-but I wont be telling Korbin that!

Happiness is a fish...

2009-04-29T21:01:00.000-04:00

Happiness is a fish is one of my favorite songs from a band called Our Lady Peace and it has nothing to do with this post but I liked it so there it is...
I feel so extremely overwhelmed and at the same time like the Lord will not forsake us. He has delivered us from much worse; but in my mind there are another several thousand families who are faithful, hardworking, and educated who are losing their homes right now and I wonder if this isn't possibly the worst time to get out of the military. It was totally out of Jaxon and my hands and that's a little helpful-I guess. I am in a constant state of panic feeling in a sort that we are preparing to be homeless even though if we don't have a job yet we can stay at Jaxon's folks-that is a last case scenario. BUT, then I walk upstairs and find Jaxon on his cell phone while holding the house phone and typing on line all to different head hunters and various Nuclear Power Companies. I can hear him selling himself and sounding so proficient and eloquent but humble. We have had several opportunities already that I have shot down (get that 'I' shot down) because I am not going to live in a rinky dink down where I have to sew my own son up because they don't have a doctor and I want awesome schools etc...
Right now we have prospects in Baltimore, Oahma, and Corpus Christy. I am looking at everything from the school drop out rate to where a great grocery store chain is. Yet, I am finding that we can be happy anywhere. I know I can suck up a small town for a while or the big city. I know that we will make it and I know that I will have faith that where ever we go is where Heavenly Father wants us. I just hope he wants us there SOON!

Supermodel...

2009-04-28T13:14:00.000-04:00

As I sit in my bathtub (which I do at some point daily) ravaging my Vanity Fair, Vogue and Allure magazines (which I cannot live without) I am reading an article on the 'unpretentious' Supermodel Giselle Bunchon. This time I am just praying that we go somewhere warm when we move like the beautiful backdrop for these lovely photos. I am seeing someone who by the worlds standards is the most breathtaking person. Who is a chameleon by trade and can turn a party upside down. Then swiftly entering my place of peace, comes in, the most beautiful creature. Someone who can change daily and throw a party upside down as well. My Alexzondra Renee. I might never understand why we were supposed to live here or if any lives were touched for the better because of us; but I do know that this is where we had our Miss. Allie who is the most amazing daughter. I might never see her in Vogue (I might not want too) but I could be wrong. I just hope she feels loved and magical and beautiful and wanted.
So, I put down Giselle and wrap her and I up in my fluffy bath towel and have a few sacred moments. She is breathtaking and she is mine. Perhaps I will have more love in my heart for this place after all?

The annoying neighbor...

2009-04-26T12:17:00.000-04:00

There is this neighbor that lives across the street from the Potter Family who is always asking for stuff. Always pawning kids off on them. Always barging in needing something or asking for help. Always calling needing a 'favor'. That annoying family, my dear friends- IS MINE!
I don't know what I did before they lived here or if I have always been so needy but they save our lives on a daily basis. I think I will miss this family so much more than I realize when we move. Jackie has helped me on silly things-like deciding which shoes to wear; and serious things-like my darkest moments when I just needed her to listen. She is beautiful and so much more balanced than I think Ill ever be.
Kirk has been so wonderful to Jaxon and I think they have become a sort of 'man-buddies' (to the extent Jaxon has friends anyway). Their wonderful boys- Tyler and Derek are a ball to have over. They play so beautifully with Korbin. Usually Miss. Allie just terrorizes them and they put up with it time and time again.
There have been many prayers for this sweet family with the newest addition coming this summer. We are so very sad that we will not be here to meet her but we know that she is coming to the most worthy, giving, fun, involved and delighted parents.
Thank you for allowing our craziness into your lives and bailing us out by giving a cup of milk or by just being great friends. We will miss you dearly and thank you for everything!!
P.S. BTW-can I borrow a 1/2 cup of sugar?

I just love...

2009-04-24T22:52:00.000-04:00

I just LOVE
Sleeping Beauty
I think it is done so well and no one can complain about that voice!
I just might sit down and watch it all the way through-that is a feat for me!

Cookies

2009-04-23T10:38:00.001-04:00

Now that I am leaving several people have asked for this recipe so here goes, I must add; not to sound bratty but I think that the difference in my cookie recipe is my ingredients! I mostly use super fresh egg from Jaxons parents and I use very strong Mexican Vanilla, and I use Cane Juice Sugar which is exactly like regular sugar its just not refined white sugar. I buy it that at Costco. And everything else besides the Crisco is organic. My friend Jackie said she thought it made a difference but you can make them any which way you would like. And credit goes to my little brother Lee who tweaked this recipe for a few years till he got it right.
1 c. butter flavored Crisco
3/4 c. white sugar
3/4 c. brown sugar
2 eggs

cream all that together then add

1 tsp. each of vanilla/baking soda/salt

cream till texture is a bit lighter looking and puffier. add

2 1/2 c. flour

mix in and add a tiny bit if needed but you want it to sit up a bit on your fingers but be sticky.

Add lots of Semi-sweet chocolate chip about 4 hand fulls. Jaxon thinks that the dough should just be there to hold the chips together!

Bake in a 375 degree oven, on a baking stone for 12 minutes. NOW- when you take them out of the oven leave them on the cookie stone for a good few minutes. When you take them out of the oven they should look like they might need a minute more but that's why you leave them on the stone, they will bake slightly but remain the goey, creamy texture.
Put on a wire cookie rack and eat as soon as possible. They are best warm. I have no idea how many they make because we consume half the dough before we are done!
I hope someone one likes these!!! Have a great day. Dang it I am salivating and I am off to the gym!!! AAhhh!

A little crazy around here!

2009-04-21T21:28:00.000-04:00

Moving so quickly with no job or house to move into makes us a little crazy around here. I feel like we are preparing to be homeless or something. I know that we will most likely have to stay with Jaxon's family for a few weeks till we know WHERE to move our stuff. So far, Jaxon has applied to 14 different companies as well as several headhunters, and that is promising that we are already starting to get calls back but its only been since Friday that we've known we were out. I know these things take time and that's the one thing we don't have. I am trying to be as positive as possible but in my control freak brain I want to totally flip out!! I know that freaking out is counter productive and inefficient I will do everything I can to make myself helpful. Again, I can only clean and organize and give away so much but I am trying to stay busy without spending money. (try it-it sucks) We put the Sport Bike up for sale today and we are trying to get everything in order I feel very distracted with my children so by all means invite them over for a play date- GEEZZ I was so busy trying to figure out with to do with our old textbooks Miss. Allie got in the tub with all her clothes on! Jaxon has turned into even more of a big brother than he already was by triple dog daring Korbin to get in Island Lake (it was like 10 degrees)all the way in his boxers. Korbin did it but negated a whole dollar from his dad. WE went on the swings and Jaxon put himself in the baby swing and Miss. Allie on him while Korbin got in the other one. They looked a little Special. I think by the time we move Ill have a twitch, Jaxon will be cross eyed and both our kids will look homeless. PRAY FOR US WE ARE GOING NUTZ!

Good Riddens Silverdale

2009-04-17T23:23:00.000-04:00

We will be officially OUT of the U.S. Navy in thirty days from this Wednesday. We are semi prepared and totally freaking out. Please pray for us, we are VERY excited to move but not so excited about the short notice.

correction

2009-04-16T15:25:00.000-04:00

Its amandakphotography.net (not .com) if you were interested in looking!!

I can rent a TIGER!

2009-04-16T00:07:00.000-04:00

In the beginning of May my super fabulous friend that so happens to be a top notch photographer (amandakphotography.com) is allowing a few of us girls to abuse our friend privilege and have her take boudoir pictures for our honeys. WELL...
One of my friends is very respectful and conservative and the other one is very pregnant so that leaves the 'boudoir' part to me. Yes That's right, while my one friend (I shall be keeping their identity secret for the time being) is doing lovely maternity pictures I am hunting online for a TIGER to pose with! Come on-that would very very kick butt!
Another lifetime ago I had a modeling contract and so out come the old binder with all my notes and tips and stances. I am having anxiety about this photo shoot because I want it to be amazing. I know very well I wont be getting this opportunity again so I want it to be PERFECT. Not cute. Not pretty. Not sweet. AMAZING take his/mine breath away- Vogue high end couture- fantabolous! I have this vision of a futuristic Geisha with the white neck and face; with the soft lighting and the curves and the props. We have a semi-Japanese bedroom I am trying to get totally Japanese and this could look amazing framed. So far the Kimono rental/make-up/wig/prop is at $350.
Next is the white angelic, very natural and just awoken vision. The idea concept is the Faith Hill 'Breathe' music video. No false lashes even. STILL this baby has its own price- Spray tan/waxing/wig/mani-pedi is around $150.
And last but not least the 'boudoir' part- this is a family blog so we will say that its racy but not trashy and it involves a corset and very high heels!!! This is the scary one because there will be no pretty bedding or silk kimono to hide my flaws and thickness. Its just gonna be me hanging out there trying with all my soccer mom heart to pose like its 1999 (cause that's when I had the body for something like this) and attempting to look as sexy as possible. This little, and I mean little number is about $100. I'M FREAKING OUT!
I know its all me and I can do what ever I want but I want it to have a WOW factor. ~Notice there is a wig involved in every scene-no lesbian hair to go down in the books and the point is to try and look attractive.
No Tiger because they are $987.00 and have to be shipped in because of the no exotic animal law.
No looking like Pam Anderson because well...I like cookies.
No, I probably will not get waxed and just and give myself a mani/pedi and I will most likely not look like I belong in Vanity Fair but come hell or high water- THIS WILL BE THE BEST FATHERS DAY PRESENT EVER!!!!!

Tired!

2009-04-13T21:37:00.000-04:00

Being a mom is exhausting. I was exhausted when I pushed them out (cant you tell?) and I am still! I love my family but I am just pooped!

Yeah Tyler-Boo Korbin

2009-04-10T11:30:00.000-04:00

Last night we went to support our friends children play their first game of T-ball. Korbin was really excited even though he knew he couldn't play; he was really happy to watch his friend Tyler Potter. Well we got there and realized out of all Korbin's guy friends that he sees on a regular basis he was the only one not on THAT team and not only not on the same team but not PLAYING at ALL. Ethan West was there. Caden Bartlett was playing and of course Tyler Potter. As we left and we watched his friends from the sidelines we tried to help him remember why we didn't sign up this season. He is in Gymnastics already twice a week and is really close to getting his back hand spring and is in the much older class because is like a monkey. Anyway I was trying to explain to him that its okay to have a bunch of different things friends do and it will be so awesome when Korbin can do a back flip and then teach his friends how to do one too. He didn't care in the slightest. I could have told him he was ready for the Olympics and he just sadly hung his head and said 'Yeah, I know doing Gymnastics is wicked awesome but I'm all alone, Just me a Coach Austin and all my friends were there together and they had cool socks and snacks after and I didn't get to be with them in the fence thing where the kids sit.(dugout)"
I felt pretty sorry for my little man. Even though he was over it soon Ill never forget how he quietly (RARE-PEOPLE) said how alone he felt right then. I asked him if he wanted to quit gymnastics so he could do something else and he looked at me like I was on crack. So, I guess we will stay in gymnastics and will go to every single game we can to support his friends. aaah the days of summer

THE Functional Family

2009-04-08T15:34:00.000-04:00

I am sick today with various aliments and while sitting in my whalor I started to read the February Ensign over and I realized that I must have skipped a beautiful article on being a Functional Family.
I grew up convinced that I was going to create the Huxtables in my little space on Earth. We would be tight-nit, witty, educated and on and so forth....
Well we got married-knocked up-on a beach-half naked-by the Grim Reaper (he had a judges cloak and it blew in the storm and looked like he was there to kill everyone) We were BROKE and I mean it in the worst way- we had a bed and that was it. It was a year and a half till we bought furniture because we didn't want any MORE debt. I was super sick preggers and Jax was in Nuke School usually pulling 14 hour days, 6 days a week.
WE WERE NOT OFF TO A GREAT HUXTABLE START!
One day after we had been married about a year Jaxon pulled me into him and we danced in our living room to a song on the radio. I knew then that we would probably never be the Huxtables and I was alright with that. Then day by day scraped together a beautiful life. We grew in every way. We tried to raise our Korbin the best we knew how and if I didn't know how to do something there was a book I'd read by someone who did or a long distance phone call to one of our moms.
Anyway, We tried to do the best we could and maybe someday in the back of my mind we could still be the Huxtables.
Our lives became more involved and we added our lovely Alexzondra. And because this is a blog and its supposed to be a sugarcoated version of our lives Ill just say that we were 'tried' as a family in ways I would never wish on my worst enemy. There were times I didn't want to live. (sound very dramatic doesn't it? But, its true and no I am not depressed) I REALLY had to decide what we were to do and I had to let go once and for all the Huxtable dream. I had to find what it meant to just be a NELSON. Not Jaxon's super amazing mother and not mine but what I wanted to be and create my family into. Nothing is harder than trying to rebuild a life that was everything you knew and loved that was lost. I wake up everyday with the prayer that Ill be a better mother/wife/friend than I was yesterday and I usually fall short but then I found this and I feel better about the direction my family is going. Because now we are all going in the direction of Heavenly Father.
These are the 6 Keys to a functional family:
1. In the functional family, parents focus their energy on teaching their children correct principles and allowing them to exercise their energy.
2. Parents INTENTIONALLY strengthen their families.
3. Relationships are of SUPREME importance.
4. Parents are active TEACHERS.
5. Parents LEAD by EXAMPLE.
6. Parents teach their children FAITH in our HEAVENLY FATHER and in the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Just recently has my Jaxon been fully into getting back with the church and I cannot tell you how wonderful it is to come out of the bathroom from brushing my teeth and see Jax all ready to read scriptures every night. For those of you (like my Jaime =>) that did everything right and got Sealed in the temple and has that every day- don't take it for granted because when its not there you have no idea how much you need it. I am glad for my daily examples of how to be a better person. I just hope my babies realize how loved they are and what a mommy is willing to do to make them happy!

Yumminess...

2009-04-05T15:50:00.000-04:00

I've have been diligently trying to domesticate myself in recent years and just these last few weeks Ive been in a fever getting new recipes that are super healthy that my family will eat too. That's the tricky part. I want to go Vegan- Jaxon would rather get hit in the head with a golf shoe. Jaxon wants some sort of meat in every meal. Korbin wants anything that has some kind of 'treat' in it; Namely Sugar. And, Miss. Allie eats everything-all the time-always.
So, here we are. I get a new recipe and its weird and calls for odd things or its 4:30 and I'm starting dinner and I realize that it has to sit overnight. We checked out Southern Living kids cookbook from the Library and so far its been our best shot!
We got these non-gross kid friendly yummy recipes from it:
Chrunchy Munchy Lettuce Wraps-
1 lb. ground turkey
1 T. canola oil
1 can (8oz) bamboo shoots, drained and minced
1 can (8oz) sliced water chestnuts, drained and minced
1/2 (8oz) pkg. sliced mushrooms, minced
4 green onions, minced
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup Sesame Ginger 30-min marinade. (Lawry's is best)
12 iceberg lettuce leaves
Left over marinade for dipping

Cook turkey in skillet (use a big one so you can add ing. later) drain well then add oil to pan over med-high heat. Add bamboo shoots and next three ing. Stir fry for two minutes. Add turkey, peas and 1/2 cup of marinade. Cook till all is heated.
Spoon about 1/2 cup mixture in each lettuce leaf and eat like soft taco. *It says it makes 6 1/2 cup servings but it was about 9 1/2 cup servings. Enjoy

Another of our favorites that came from the book was the Granola Triangles but don't let that fool you. We ate it after the pool when the kids need some carbs in them but we've been eating it as a early dessert instead of a snack because it has Corn Syrup!

Granola Triangles-

2 1/2 cups Rice Crispies
2 cups uncooked quick cooking oats
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup peanut butter (we used chunky and it was fantastic)
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup chocolate chips
cooking spray

Combine first 3 ing. in big bowl-set aside. Stir together brown sugar and syrup in small pan. Bring to boil stirring constantly. Remove from heat and add vanilla and peanut butter till smooth. Pour mixture over cereal mixture and stir till coated. Let sit for 10 minutes and then add Choc chips. Spoon mixture in greased 13x9 pan press down into even layer and cut into 12 squares. Makes 2 dozen triangles.
* OK this didn't actually turn out like that for me because I had to answer the door and let the mixture boil too long but even though it didn't hold together perfectly I just put it into baggies and ate it like chunky granola. It was still great!

So, even though am not a domestic diva I do love to find great things for my family!!! There are plenty of days where we throw life span and health out the window-like today. I made Cinnamon Rolls for General Conference Weekend. They are so Delicious!!! Martha Stewart can kiss it!!
* The picture of the three of my loves in bed is what happens when we eat things like the Cinnamon Rolls. See why we can't eat like that all the time!!!

Happy Birthday Mommy

2009-04-04T00:34:00.000-04:00

Today was/is my mommy's Birthday, and it sucked. Between all the snow and canceled plans she was sick and had to go to work anyway. As crappy as that sounds this is not unusual for her, when the going gets tough she is the one to hold it all together. She is the toughest cookie Ive ever met. Hello-she raised me!!!
Growing older and having children of my own I often reflect (as do we all once we have kids and bills) how much she gave without me ever noticing. For years she made a bottle of perfume last because we needed new school clothes. She spent hours/days/weeks making homemade Halloween Belle Ball Gowns and Christmas dresses. I ate a great (from scratch) breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday for almost eighteen years. She gave me love always even if I felt suffocated by it as a teen. I used to tell her 'We know! We know you love us! TOO much! A little less would be okay too.'
I used to make fun of her when ever she'd go away for a weekend with my dad and she would sit us down and tell us how much she loved us and her Heavenly Father; in case she died on the road she wanted us to KNOW that she KNEW.
I have a faithful devoted mother whom I'm am perhaps a bit late in acknowledging how exceptional she really is. You are the definition of faithful service, hard work, unconditional love and a never ending strive for what Heavenly Father wants from you. You are everything that I hope to live up too as a mother. Happy Birthday.

Spring Break 2

2009-04-02T23:17:00.000-04:00

I am exhausted. This Spring Break fun family week at home is a ton of work and the kids have NO IDEA. I know that in twenty years they will tell me how amazing I am and I am counting on that. This morning we woke up and made biscuit/egg/cheese/bacon towers in the oven. I was going to take pictures but I was too busy frying up bacon while helping Korbin make biscuits. After we finished those in about three minutes; We had a bit of spring cleaning to do so I let the kids take all the couch cushions into the hall and make forts. I steam cleaned the house and furniture. Anyone on a beach right now-if you are I want to kill you right now.
Then Miss. Allie went down for a nap. I said went down-not sleep. She continued to screech at us from her crib. Again-screech not cry. She was just plain annoying. SO, we just got her up to go to the Aquatics center. Oh wait... Korbins trunks don't fit and we don't have any swim diapers. Oh what fun we are. Off to Walmart (where I see rich-very put together woman from our stake- I ignore her and continue walking being as I'm in a swimsuit and a skirt and no make-up whatsoever.) Find new trunks and flip flops and go. CRAP almost there and no swim diaper (they wont let her in without one) stop at RiteAid. Jax runs in pouring rain while we wait in the car. We wait and wait and wait. Apparently Jax couldn't find it and had to wait until the only available cashier stopped chatting about menopause with another customer to help Jax. FINALLY we are at the Pool! Yeah!! Its so fun. We did not bring the camera because I wanted to have fun too. I always get stuck with it and I take terrible pictures! Miss. Allie loved the water slide which is shocking because its pitch black in there! We swam our little hearts out. I was nervous as always about being in public in my suit but just as always there was a ton of other people that should acquire some honest friends to tell them that a string bikini over 60 is just not so hot. So, I did just fine. We left about 4:30 so Jax could help someone move a piano and we could have a quick dinner and shower before gymnastics. When did I learn time-management? I actually thought I could do that in that small amount of time. Nope. We rushed home (in a downpour in ferry traffic on a two lane road) to find the guys Jax is supposed to help move with in our driveway. Off he goes to do a good deed for the day. All me. My good deed is going to be not drugging my starving, freezing screaming children while I whip up dinner. We ate food. That's all I can say about dinner. Rush to gymnastics and listen to Alexzondra scream how upset she is that there are too many kids and she can't go out onto the gym floor and play. Korbin is somewhat paying attention to his coach and I suppose that it was a good idea we made it to class today. Then both kids have meltdowns on the way home as I retract my previous thought. I am still covered in chlorine and smell like grilled cheese sandwiches and gym mats. I am tired. This is not Spring BREAK. THIS IS SPRING NUTS. Tomorrow when I am rested and smell like my good old self (its amazing what Chanel par fume can do for your soul) we might try another fun thing, but tonight I am taking a bath and going to sleep. right now.

Spring Break I

2009-04-02T11:11:00.001-04:00

This Spring Break Week has hardly looked anything like spring but its fine because we are troopers!!! So far I have not ran every day and have not blogged everyday but other that those we still have started our list.
On Monday for FHE we took our fliers for our blanket drive around the neighborhood and went to the park. Korbin used his allowance money to take our family to McDonalds for ICE CREAM!
Tues was errands and the Dentist- we can skip Tuesday!
Yesterday was great fun going to the Bainbrigde Island Children's Museum. I was not terribly impressed with it but it was okay. The kids had fun for a few hours so I supposed we got our 5 dollars worth. Alexzondra did not have her stroller but I was going to bear it anyway and I'm so glad I didn't bring it. She was on the move and played fabulous; Mostly running after other kids and trying to kiss them. She especially enjoyed being as loud as possible and not getting told to shush. Korbin mostly loved dressing in safari gear and tromping around the 'forest' looking for rare animals with Tommy. After that we went out to lunch with our neighbors (whom also went with us to said museum), the Duncan's to Chinese food. It was very yummy although almost impossible to get the three boys to use any manners they'd ever been taught. Korbin was slurping away! Then I came home and had a nap with Miss. Allie while Korbin played with the Duncans still! Last night was Korbins turn for dinner and we made Tuna pot pie things but shaped them like fish for each of us. They were pretty great but of course nothing we make ever looks like the picture. oh well. Jax and I finally finished Indiana Jones last night. All four of them! I'm glad I could finally get him up to speed with our generation!
Today is perhaps the Aquatic center or maybe we will just stay inside this rainy day and make a fort under our table to pretend we are on faraway continent where the sun shines with its warmth and we have no place to be....

Pills...

2009-03-31T23:55:00.000-04:00

These are all the pills that are expired in my house. We are either very healthy or very sick. At least we didn't ingest all this...
See I told you I'd post every day. Aren't you glad I did?

We should have gone out of town!!!!!

2009-03-30T11:10:00.000-04:00

This week in Washington is Spring Break and we are one of the very few lame families that did not plan a trip. We are still waiting to hear back from the Navy about getting out so I don't want to be like "Hey we just spent $800 bucks on a week long vacation but now we have to look for a house!" My brain doesn't work that way!!
So, here we are on this drizzly, cloudy morning and I am trying to think of what to do this week!
I will be blogging EVERY day for those who are not on said faraway family adventure.
We are having family blanket drive for our neighborhood for FHE and I will blog that.
I will run a 10K each day (that's like 34 miles by Friday)so I don't remain the 'chunky friend' and can someday be known just as 'volumptious'!
Jax and I will watch the entire Indiana Jones and Lord of the Rings each night-till we grow hair on our own feet and start to carry around a whip when we leave the house.(I'm a nerd! I know! I LOVE those movies and he's never seen them)
We will go to the library, Bainbridge Island Aquatics, the Painting Brush (paint your own pottery) and I will again blog about those as well!
I am going to steam clean our house and attempt to create super-amazing-testimony building Easter lesson for my Young Women.
I knew when I was a kid I hated that my family never went anywhere and I swore to myself that I would be a fun mom- fast forward 20 years and here I am! Perhaps not at Disney Land but WE WILL HAVE FUN! MY KIDS ARE GOING TO HAVE GOOD MEMORIES OF SPRING BREAK AND I will get to sleep in my own comfy bed!!

HELL IS a little FROZEN OVER.

2009-03-23T11:25:00.000-04:00

Last weekend our family went to Jaxons parents house who have a wonderland of things I've never been exposed to until I married into them. They live on a few acres in Vancouver Washington and have created a super awesome outdoor classroom for my kids just by doing what they've done for decades. They have a HUGE garden (of which we reap the benefits much more than we help!) they have a most amazing deck that we can sit in the hot tub at night and soak my (well Jaxon's) sore muscles. They also have a barn and a chicken coop.
If anyone knows me now or even worse; knew me growing up I HATE being icky. I don't mind hard work. I don't mind sweat- but I very much mind being dirty or even coming close to a animal if it doesn't have a weekly trip to the groomers. So, I would like to think that after almost six years of marriage to my Jaxon I have loosened up a tiny bit. I still don't like to be icky but now if I'm prepared for it...Ill do fine. I wear grungy clothes to their house and always put on work boots when I go out in the yard.
Enough of that....
What we did this weekend was get some baby layers (small just hatched chicks that we wont be killing-thus the name 'layers') Mom ordered a dozen but they were still cozy in their shells so we bought five more so that Korbin and Miss. Allie could still be involved and see the babies. Now we make it clear from the start that these are a food source but when they are this cute its hard not to cuddle them and name them and be in the barn all day. (they are in the barn- not the chicken coop because we have warm lights and baby food so they stay happy) SO WE DID! The one Korbin's holding is named 'Blue Yoda' because he will grow up to either lay blue eggs or have blue feathers- I don't remember!! Mine is going to be this darling black and silver specked bird so I named him (her- if its a layer its a 'lady') Armani. We had a really nice time there learning about things I would never be able to teach my children about. Its a whole different world than I know. We love going there. Next time we see those chicks they will be full grown (about 8 weeks) and might be laying us yummy eggs!!!

Picture Tag

2009-03-09T21:19:00.000-04:00

Here is Tricia Clark's picture tag!! Its the fifth folder and the seventh picture.
This was taken at a place called Cyprus Gardens in Charleston South Carolina. Its where they filmed The Patriot and North and South and my favorite movie ever - The Notebook scene where Noah takes Allie on the boat and they see all the ducks and it starts to rain. BTW those ducks are not there in real life. They were brought in for the movie.
Anyway, that is a baby Crocodile that my dear crazy husband tried to wrangle. They got close (they: meaning him and Korbin who was only TWO) enough to pet him but he then slithered away into the black abyss of the waters. We loved that place and had a yearly pass. It had a little aquarium and reptile zoo. When we took this picture we were on a little flat bottomed paddle boat that you could take out yourself or a guided tour. There were some pretty amazing natural 'features' about Cyprus Gardens such as why the water is black. Its is from the roots of the trees that dye's the water such as tea steeps in your mug. There are a abundance of crocks who are so used to the boats sometimes they swim right along and you might never notice and in the middle of the lake thing was this huge burnt down church that looked as if it was from before the Revolutionary War. Well- It was and it wasn't. What people are actually looking at is a Styrofoam and plywood set from movie The Patriot. When the militia goes in hiding and Mel Gibson's character is melting down his son's toy soldiers for bullets. Well they are supposed to be in the remains of a actual old church that was nearby but now its private property. So they got permission to build it there. It was such a tourist attraction that the Cyprus Gardens Manager convinced them to leave it. It has fallen down since but it still gave a bit of historical romance and reverence to the dark water and bright blue sky's. I miss going there. I think it was one of the happiest times in my life.

HELP

2009-03-06T22:54:00.000-05:00

HELP ME!! Jaxon and I are always trying to go on a fun date and it always ends up at Orgami Sushi and the movies. I feel like this town has a dead night life after say...5:30 pm! I can feel so ready to move its killing me- the Navy had better come through- I need to get out of here. There is just nothing here for me. Sure I've met some wonderful people but the bad far out weighs the good---anyways... Since we are praying to move I want to make sure I see/go/do some of the great things here. Yes- we've been to the Olympic Game Farm and the Coast and the Space Needle and Im running out of ideas. If you have a great idea for a date or family activity please help us! I have some amazing memories from our little outings and we need more so I can have more to scrapbook when we leave!!!

Invisible mother?

2009-03-04T19:20:00.000-05:00

INVISIBLE MOTHER

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the
way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and
ask to be taken to the store.

Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?'

Obviously, not.

No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor,
or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at
all.

I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands,
nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this?

Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a
clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer,'What
number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30,
please.'

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the
eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude -
but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen
again. She's going; she's going; she is gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a
friend from England ..

Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on
and on about the hotel she stayed in.

I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so
well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself.

I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a
beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.'

It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe ..

I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her
inscription:

'To My Dear Friend, with admiration for the greatness of what you are
building when no one sees.'

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would
discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after
which I could pattern my work:

No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of
their names.

These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see
finished.

They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.

The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of
God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the
cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny
bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why
are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be
covered b y the roof? No one will ever see it.'

And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.'

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place.

It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you. I see the
sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act
of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcakeyou've
baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a
great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.'

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a
disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my
own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn
pride.

I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As
one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see
finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.

The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could
ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to
sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend
he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4
in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a
turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That
would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him
to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his
friend, to add, 'You're going to love it there.'

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're
doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world
by the sacrifices of invisible women.

OK! YOUR READ THIS RIGHT??? MY TURN----

Who is this woman who allows her family to forget how amazing she is? Who are these women who don't look in the mirror and see that they are building Zion? I know that I don't think every minute of the day I'm the most stellar woman god graced with his children but I sure as heck don't go around letting my family take advantage of what I am doing for them. I just don't understand this- you teach people how to treat you. I sometimes clean the house in my pink satin high heels and tell Korbin that its Queen Mommy time and during that time I decided to help keep our house beautiful. I'd dare say that of all the people I respect MOTHER'S are my front runners! My mother- my husband's mother, and a great deal of women who I associate with all the time. These mothers are the ones who taught me un-conditional love, sacrifice, manners, respect, patience, endurance, and all other virtuous qualities that create a whole person- and they CAME FROM MOTHERS! Well, first from God but us moms are the ones who keep it going! I hope you other moms know that I think your amazing and we are building the kingdom of God and you are not invisible to me!!!

Not a lazy day person...

2009-03-01T21:01:00.001-05:00

Today was stake conference and we are lazy parents who hate to take our kids to two hours of sacrament. Any one met Miss. Allie? We didn't go but attempted to read scriptures a bit and have little talks about Jesus or whatever came up along the day. That was the extent of our growth today.
I am still in my robe from this morning. Our kids bathed and put on new jammies and I think will have watched the entire Lord of the Rings on TNT. Yeah- Great kid movie huh? I am not a fan of this. I don't like me lazy. I don't like anyone lazy. Jax and I suck like this. We aren't fun or engaged with the kids we are just icky T.V. parents. If there are people who actually live like this everyday I'm glad I don't know them because I would go crazy. I hate how I feel not 'on-the-ball' in the slightest. You might think I am sick or upset but... nope-just plain lazy! Tomorrow I will have a busy productive day and will totally make up for today. You know the saying 'Live each day like its your last' I agree. I agree on every other day but today. Tomorrow Ill agree!
On a side note- We have a very real possibility of getting out of the Navy this coming summer and it would really work out well for our family. (we can't wait to leave this place) Say a prayer for us!! I'll let you know the very minute our contract with the Devil changes!!

Happy Birthday little man!

2009-02-23T18:14:00.000-05:00

My best friend Jaime Connor finally gave birth to the newest addition of their family this past Saturday. Chase Maxwell Connor is a happy healthy prince that joined us weighing 7 lbs. 2 oz and was 19 inches long.
Mr. Max I know you just left Heavenly Father but you haven't gone too far because he gave you some of the most celestial parents on earth. But-they still know how to have fun! I am SO happy for your family. As a side note *Jaime is already wearing her regular jeans! She is smart, funny, talented and a gorgeous spiritual giant! I miss you guys dearly- I really really miss you!! Hopefully our family someday can make the trip to Hawaii to visit before you guys get out of the Navy! I love being in your lives and you have indeed made ours very much the richer. I know for a fact that when the winds blow and the tempest rage you are the people whose hands I want to be holding on to. I would be a different person if it weren't for the influence of my Jaime and I hope our children grow to have friends that are there through the good times and the bad (and the ugly-many a times Jaime has seen me without makeup!) I can not think of a better family to have this little bundle of perfection. Congratulations my dear friends! P.S. For all of you who aren't as blessed as me to know them they are at philipandjaimeconnor.blogspot.com and you can see Chase Maxwell!

just somethin-

2009-02-22T02:37:00.000-05:00

Tonight our Korbin just was not sleepy and being as I don't care if he's tired or not he went to bed anyways but being the most awesome mother I am I also do not mind if he looks a books with a soft light on. This is how tonight went down:
8:00 bed time
9:00 I say 'Korbin I can hear you! Go to sleep or just turn on your office light and look at books.'
9:30 Jaxon goes in and finds Korbin with amazing assortment of hot wheels lined up to race on the middle of Korbin's floor.'Dude you have to get into bed, I don't care if you look at books but you have to get in bed'
9:30 and one micro-second later: Korbin says 'So I can just put what I want to play with IN my bed and play there.' not a question a statement.
9:30 and 3 seconds: Jaxon 'NO you have read books or turn off the lights.'
9:31 Korbin 'But, I actually don't know how to read' as quick as ever.
9:31 and twenty seconds: 'Look I know you know the letter and I know you know the sounds so you just look at the books and see if anything jumps out at you- go to sleep.'
9:32 Korbin singing alphabet song loudly from his room to try and remember what sounds the letter should be making.
9:33 Jaxon comes downstairs laughing at the quick-wit and humor Korbin has inherited.
I have a happy moment.

Fire Station Field Trip

2009-02-21T23:30:00.000-05:00

Although this week has been an emotionally draining pain in my butt I thought- There must have been something great that I'm missing that happened? I took Mom to the airport and distracted Shannon enough to get her first speeding ticket ever. No that's not it. I had a few interesting conversations with friends. No that's not it either. I gained a pound. Nope not it at all. OH wait...
Korbin's super darling field trip to the Fire House. Can I just say the the firefighters in this area are more than welcome to pull me out of a burning building. That's all I'm saying. Anywhoo. Korbin had a great time looking at the state of the art new firetrucks. If only our nation would put as much infasis on everything else (but that's for a whole nother blog). The truck had a bunch of handy features such as a hose shield to protect it from UV rays that opened up automatically and a ladder that swung down by itself by the push of a button and stadium lighting so they can see in burning second floors. I was quite impressed. Which I'm in turn impressed with- being as I think EVERYTHING could be better. Korbin felt a little jipped with all his fire safety knowledge that he didn't get to spend more time on the truck itself but he very much enjoyed holding Kate's hand (a very pretty young lady in his class) the ENTIRE TIME! He also liked telling the firemen repeatedly that we have a fire plan and if his door is hot he is allowed to jump out of his window and run to Ms. Jackies. They asked me if that was a tall tale and when I said it wasn't I think we went up a little notch in their opinions of how cool my kid is that he would actually do that. Lets just hope that if the time comes all these field trips and FHEs are needed that Korbin will get the opportunity to jump heroically out of our burning home to scream and run to Ms. Jackies!!!

I AM GOING TO SCREAM!!!

2009-02-19T01:03:00.001-05:00

I changed this stupid template and somehow it deleted all my links to you people!!! I want to scream!! If I usually have you on my 'people we love' blog sites PLEASE PLEASE write me a comment so I can start all over again and add your family!!! AAAAAAAHHHHHHH

My mommy came to visit- and it was PERFECT!!

2009-02-19T00:28:00.000-05:00

My mommy came to visit and I loved it. I started to blog about all the things we 'did' but the play-by-play didn't tell you how great it 'felt' to have her here. We had the best trip yet and I am very excited to have her come back SOON!!!

We are going to live forever

2009-02-11T20:01:00.000-05:00

Recently I watched 'Half Ton Mom' and 'Half-Ton Dad' and I realized that I am the BEST FREAKING MOTHER ON THE PLANET! I see and recognize the unhealthy relationship with food our society creates. Its supposed to be comforting-that's why we nurse on soft boobies! But, a Ho ho isn't going to love you back babe! So, I have become even more aware than I was (and Ive never bought a fruit snack or box of pastries in my life) and started to help Korbin and eventually Miss. Allie understand that food is fuel, food is to help us not make our tummy's hurt (like too much ice cream of which I guilty of) So here are a few meals we've been making and I have to say there is NO WAY my kids are gonna be the kid who cant run the mile in gym cause he didn't have a good enough breakfast. We are going to live forever!

Reading brings good things..........

2009-02-09T21:02:00.000-05:00

Reading brings good things...like ME! Last week Tyler Potter invited ME to be his Special Reading Person at his school. I was very honored to be invited. We have loved living across the street from this wonderful family. Once a year his elementary school hosts a Guest Reading Day. I got to bring my favorite children's book which was 'The Paper bag Princess' My very all time favorite. We picked two friends to read with us and picked a spot on the floor and read so many books I don't don't even remember their names. There was one I do remember about a girl who had the icky case of the stripes and I'm going to try to find a place to buy it because it seemed older.
Here are a few pictures of us at the school and then to a McDonald's treat of ice cream on the way home. He was a perfect date. Opening doors, letting me pick where to sit and showing me the ladies room. I had a great time. If that one comes asking again Ill for sure say YES!!!

Obsessed

2009-02-09T03:07:00.000-05:00

I think the strong front runner for the make-up artist co. is now 'Obsessed'. My friend Nudi is a glamazon and commented that I need something fun, sexy and fierce. I thought about what I'd want from someone who does my face. (neck, body- everything)
I would want someone Obsessed. I would want me. I keep up with the latest skin care and colour and I never miss a red carpet or fashion week. Ive made over Celeberities, Grandmas, Housewives, Models and Men. Yes that's right-you never met a Drag Queen prettier than you till I got my hands on him!
Looking at what I'd want to do I think that I would be able to offer a full range of services because I can do any one and anything and make them look perfect because I am and have always been 'Obsessed' (even if I do dress like a 'mom' sometimes)
PS. And don't you worry once I have a air brush machine Ill look perfect too!

Now that Im thinking about it...

2009-02-07T17:59:00.000-05:00

My good friend Tricia is super sick with Strep Throat and has two kiddos while her hubby is gone to sea for what seems like forever-October. Suzanne Baldridge (our RS Pres.) and myself invited ourselves over to help tidy things up and I was preparing for the worst. Tricia made it sound like the rats were on their way and there was not a spare clean surface. I was very surprised to find a hardly dirty house. We did a few basics and were on our way in a little over an hour. That doesn't seem dirty to me if you can scour a whole house in a hour; right? Much love out to you my dear not icky siccko friend. We are praying for you to get better. And I do mean we- Korbin want's a play date!!! I do have a point I'm making here:
I wonder how long this would have taken 100 years ago before magic erasers and Swifter's and vacuum's. I was so happy that she had the same sort of things I use to clean my own house so it went really smooth.
Nothing I use today to clean my house are item that existed way back then but I'm very happy they exist now!!!
Living Room:
Swifter duster w/ extendable wand
Kirby Vacuum
Microfiber Sofas that can be cleaned with a
Spot Bott
Deep Steam Cleaner
Lysol Wipes for Kids toys
(and because we have a baby we have disposable diapers and disposable wipes and BUTT PASTE none of which were around either- why did people have more kids back then?)
Kitchen:
Clorox Swifter
Magic Eraser (great for scrubbing floors-thanks for that one Nelsa Sumsion)
Dawn dish soap
Cascade (DISHWASHER!)
Disposal Cleaner (the one in the blue and yellow box-an orange just makes it smell good it doesn't clean anything)
Clorox anywhere spray.
Clorox to pour into sinks at night to keep them good an clean for breakfast!
I think the only thing that is the same is the dishcloth but even those I get to throw into a washer machine every single day!
Bathrooms:
This is where it really shows!!!
Pumice stone to get ring out of toilet! Did they have Pumice stones then?
Magic eraser- the single most useful cleaner besides dish soap. You can even rub a spray tan off with it! Its true but not really recommended.
Mr. Clean wipe thing that looks like an iron
Bleach Pens for tile grout and around faucets
WINDEX- I know people like to say Vinegar and water work just as great but you can't beat the great smell from Targets Method brand window cleaner-it smells like mint!!!
More Lysol wipes.
I don't know that chemical compounds that make up the difference between Lysol and Clorox wipes but I saw as a Science Fair Project (It took 1st) in my high school that the Lysol product cleaned waaayyy more thoroughly than the Clorox. Don't tell my grandma she thinks Clorox could clean away ones AIDS.
What are you FAVS? I am always looking for the most effective product that's cost efficient and easy to use!!! I would love to find something to make this week a little less work!!!!!

More things

2009-02-06T21:17:00.000-05:00

I thought of a ton more things that need to get done that I forgot:
Windows
clean out fridge
print out pics she would like to take home
finish the paint job in Allies room
lose 10 lbs
Become Spiritual Giant (get over here Sis. Beck)
caulk odd spot in bathtub
clear out cobwebs in vaulted corners

My best friend Jaime noted that I am psyotic and I agree but its people like me that get 'it' done. Seriously let me handle Health Care it would be taken care of a long time ago. And BTW when I get her from the airport in my immaculate car playing a EFY C.D. I will be ~the calm ~the collected ~the perfect daughter. So when you see her on Sunday (for those of you that live close) be sure to tell my mom how amazing I am so that on Tuesday when she leaves I can sleep for the next week and not bathe my kids.

MY MOTHER IS COMMING!!

2009-02-06T00:40:00.000-05:00

I just want a quick note from anyone who freaks out when their mother comes to town. My madrea is coming on February 12 and I am very excited but I am a basket case. Its always like this too. I was raised with a white glove mother. Which was great because I love to clean and be organized as well but for some reason I feel like when she comes I have to create this 'perfect' house. And, ambiance is just as important as cleanliness. If a air conditioning duct is not clean Ill worry she will notice of if I'm too uptight she will feel a bad feeling in the house. I just go nuts. Its not like she comes to inspect my house but I want her to feel as if she did a good job in raising me and my house is beautiful and my children are clean and well mannered. I feel like I become Bree VanDeCamp from Desperate Housewives oh but wait- I'm not that skinny or collected or wealthy!
All she talks about on the phone is how she wants to play with the kids and not to worry about it but I swear she is going to sit on the couch and some interesting scientific Cheerio is going to pop up and attack her.
Here is the TO-DO list for this week:
clean all light fixtures
unscrew all vents and scrub/paint them
dust
change bedding/towels
touch up spots with paint
hand scrub floor
move all appliances and clean under and around
vacuum hose and wipe down inside of cupboard/drawers/under sinks
clean blinds
steam curtain's
Rug Doctor carpets
rid house of all magazines (even if I'd leave Vanity Fair out for Jesus-mom wouldn't approve)
do ironing
detail car
clean out garage
Clorox out trash cans
clean out penalty box of debris (outside backyard thing)
tan-exfoliate-pluck-shave-grow new head of hair
prepare most amazing Y.W. lesson (Ironically its on homemaking)
teach my children to sing all primary songs on cue (with feeling)
Scrub bathrooms and use Bleach pen in between every tile
Change hard water stained shower curtain's and steam the pretty outside part
Create a full kitchen of organic, healthy food
bake something the night she visits so it smells like June Cleavers house
AND...Learn how to never raise my voice and plan life altering FHE the Monday she's here.
I know we will have a blast once she gets here but I just want everything to be perfect!!!! I love her and want her to love being here with us. I just might need to take a few hours off of cleaning OCD to go to THERAPY!!

Do I smell smoke? NO YOU DON'T!

2009-02-04T01:49:00.000-05:00

This past Monday we had our annual fire safety family home evening. We have it every year when Korbin arrives home from school with a note in his backpack that tells us to have it. So we do.
We devised an emergency plan. Practiced how to call and what to say to a dispatcher. We learned how to touch the door and crawl on our bellies. But, the kicker was when we talked about if worst comes to worst Korbin must jump out of his window on to the grass and run to the Potters house for help. We did NOT practice this. However, he is constantly saying 'Oh mom the stove is on- its getting pretty hot in here" runs to his room Screams "Hey! My door is warm can I jump now?" and then proceeds to have a meltdown when we tell him that no our house is not on fire and he may not jump out of his window. I don't think this was a great idea because now he wants to start a fire so he is allowed to jump. It doesn't help when Jaxon thinks the grill is a personal arsenal for entertainment. See why FHE sucks and we should only do fun things like swimming instead of 'teaching' our kids something. Next thing we know Im gonna be posting about a trip to the ER and a cast!

The Fairy Godmother?

2009-02-02T23:55:00.000-05:00

I was approached by a good friend (AmandaKPhotography) who is opening a photography studio in the area and was asked if I would consider being her make-up artist reference. I could house all the product in studio and do anything Id need to make clients look amazing. I was elated to even be considered ~being as this good friend is very particular (in a really good way) and has very high expectations and to think she wants me to make her clients breathtaking. FLATTERED! I cant give any sort of answer till I know what the Navy will be doing with us but I can't help checking every web site on product and the latest airbrush machines. I can't help but thinking the next thing is giving advice to Allure magazine. I can't help but be distracted all day thinking about how I want the lighting or what product I want use to cover a tattoo. But, in all this I cannot think of what to CALL MYSELF!!! Jaxon says that when I go to work I'm the Fairy Godmother and I want something whimsical and playful. After all this is makeup not rocket science. Help me think of ideas! I know there a ton more people who read this blog than even I'm aware of. So, blog browsers now is your time to fess up and give me suggestions. I NEED THEM!! Or its just gonna be called Brittney Nelson make-up. whoopity do! Boring. boring. boring.