Nielsen

WOW

2010-05-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

...we're still alive incase you were wondering.

Without going into all the nightmare-ish details, I was told today that we may NEVER be able to get a construction loan. Just to put this in perspective, we have perfect credit, a good income, NO debt (not even a car loan), and we completely own the lot that makes up almost half of the loan amount we are asking for (more equity than most building a home). So what is the problem?

We decided to put the sewer and water in because we needed that done in order to get our building permit. Well, my (incorrect) thinking was that in order to get a loan we needed to have a permit (wrong, wrong, wrong). Soooo....the sewer and water were all done about 3 weeks ago. Apparently if you even have someone dig a 1inch hole on your lot, they have the ability to put a lien (hold) on your lot. Since we had the sewer done, he now has the ability to put a lien on the property BUT he has agreed to sign a lien waiver. Honkey dorey right? NOPE!

Well, I told the bank, what if my oh so kind Grandparents pay the guy completely so that we owe him nothing. He would then have no rights to put a lien on it right? WRONG again...why, I do not know. Apparently once someone dug, or did anything, it allows every subcontractor to put a lien on our property and the bank will not loan with that risk...BUT if the loan had been in place before the first person, then it would have been OK.

SO...lesson is...you can't have work done on the lot you own, even when you pay with your own money. So all those people with property, don't ever ever touch it without borrowing money and spending lots on interest...because it so matters where you get the money from. What the heck...I am SO lost.

Anyone know a lawyer? Seriously....it may come to that :(

PS-Everything else is going good. We are enjoying the weather in between meltdowns (from me...not Ryker). New mantra- "It's worth it...it is worth it...it is SO worth it"

All that she wants...

2010-04-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

is this:

Remember way back when I posted this picture?

This is our lot where our house will hopefully eventually stand

Well, it looks like this now:

Yep, the same-identical-still house-less!

Good news, we are going to get our loan this week. Why in tarnation has this taken so long? Because we had to rezone, split the lot and put the lot in our name. On top of that, we have had to deal with wetland issues, an uncooperative city who drags their feet, fights over the sidewalk and about a million other stumbling blocks I don't have time to list.

But.............what's that? A light at the end of the tunnel! Water and sewer are being put in next week...perhaps I will attach a dishwasher directly to the main line, camp out and dig the foundation with a shovel. Sounds better than sitting around waiting for people to get things done!

Beautiful

2010-04-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

Photoshop is my bestest friend lately. I have your typical digital camera but alas, it is not cutting it. The lighting is all wrong, there are no settings to change and monkey with...but at least I capture the fuzzy memories.

I have managed, with photoshop's help, to make some good looking pictures. This is my favorite.

I am smitten. In love. Enamoured. Totally swept off my feet.

This will hang in my new house, but until then, it will be a birthday gift for a very special someone.

PS- dear husband of mine: I always say I don't want anything, but pretty please with a cherry on top, can I have a professional camera. Loves- Ash

What kind of camera do you all have? I am lost as to what will be best.

Easter 2010

2010-04-09T10:55:00.001-07:00

I am embarassingly late getting this up. Here was our Easter in a nutshell

The All- Boy "Basket"

That's what it's all about
My Little Man! Anyone else bummed that the Easter outfits were exchanged for pants and jackets? Ryker's Cousin/BFF

Seriously, I don't think there are better looking kids out there!

And to think that another little girl who will look exactally the same is going to arrive soon. Man-oh-man, their dad is in t-r-o-u-b-l-e!

Last, and most fun of all- our Easter basket "hunt". Each color of yarn is for a different kid. A whole scane was ran around the entire house and at the end was their prize. Seriously fun...Except for the fact that we had to crawl under it all to get into the kitchen!

Blast! No picture of the loot. He managed to swindle 2 bubble blowers (a gun and a set-on-the-floor kind) out of his Grandmas. I also managed to sway other grandmas to give him much needed spring clothes. Don't forget all the teeth-rotting candy. YUM!

Hope your Easter was great. I loved that it was also Conference weekend...really inspirational!

Disclaimer: although I do work for a dentist, I do in fact, still give Ryker candy. Shame. On. Me!

Till' We Meet

2010-04-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

What a day....no, week....no, 4 years. I lost another person I love last Monday. My cousin, Steven James Duncan passed away from kidney failure from diabetes. He was only 19 :(

I felt a loss that was so new for me. At the funeral yesterday, I felt a real aching because I miss Stevie, his mom Holly (who died 4 years ago from cancer), my step-dad Steve (who died of kidney failure 3 weeks before Ryker was born) and my grandpa Clynn (who died the night before Ryker was born). It was a physical ache unlike any other. Along with that ache came times of great peace.

Yesterday was Good Friday. The day that our Savior uttered the words "it is finished". The presiding bishop yesterday said it so well. Even though Jesus died, it was the best day in history because of all that it meant to the world.

I am so grateful for the gospel and the plan of happiness!

Auntie Ash

2010-03-27T11:51:00.001-07:00

He's here! My sister had a oh-so-cute baby boy on Wednesday March 24th. He is such a little trooper even though he is having some health issues (his mommy is also a trooper...sick babies are not fun!) I sure hope the little one gets to come home soon so I can squeeze those newborn cheeks!

Adri Eric Wood Rose

PS- I have a huge, yet amazingly fun family. Here is just a fraction of us (The Cowley/Maughan side).

A Fun Day in Pictures

2010-03-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

Today we left

WithPicked up these goofballs

(thanks for the pic Nat!)

Went to the Sportsman's Expo

and here for some delish wings...

and here to visit my cousin.

I laughed so hard I cried ALL DAY!

PS- This lovely sister of mine is going to make me Auntie Ash this week! :) :)

Back to Work

2010-03-17T19:38:00.000-07:00

It's official- I have a job! We are very excited because this means that we will now be starting our house ASAP. It also gives me a little break, Ryker a little socialization and all of his grandparents some much wanted time with him.

I am now the assistant office manager at Legacy Dental in Wellsville. I work for Dr. Tyler Hunt and with three other fun girls. I will just be working 16 hours a week and have a schedule that is going to work well especially for summer. The flexibility is going to be great and since I am planning on staying for quite a while, I will be able to adjust as needed for preschool and school.

This job is going to be such a blessing. We have prayed for something just like this and I am very glad that I didn't jump on other opportunities I was considering. There is so much to learn but I can't wait until I am comfortable with everything.

The Holy Grail

2010-03-17T12:19:00.000-07:00

After much searching, we have found it! A park, close to our house, appropriate for little ones. The search was long, but luckily not hard.

Park 1: Hyde Park where they have the pumpkin walk

Failed due to a foot of snow on the ground.

Park 2: Smithfield Elementary school

Failed due to the fact that there were a million other kids and the equipment was way too huge for mommy's comfort.

Park 3: Smithfield ball park

Failed due to being too large again

Park 4: (THE ONE!) Amalga Sugar Park

I know, Amalga?

Great points: 5 minute drive from our house, perfect for little ones, clean, newer equipment. It is perfect and the little one agrees. We spent a half hour in the car, another 15 minutes climbing on the bench...hey, something to climb on is something to climb on :) and 20 minutes of mom explaining that we can't just jump off the very top of the slide. It went something like this: "sit down, sit down...NO!" (catch Ryker midair as he leaps off the top) Ryker: hysterical laughing.

Spring To-Do List

Find a park? Check!

Find a way to keep stupid people on bikes away from the extremely wind-y roads in Benson before I pull my hair out? Still working on it!

Dear Health,

2010-03-10T17:01:00.001-08:00

It has come to our attention that you have been tardy and/or truant in our home for the past 16 months.

Case in point:

Ryker's ongoing sickness and your total lack of appearance when needed for him.
Ashley's chronic "feeling icky"since Ryker's birth- how dare you leave a mother to deal with your nemesis (ie Sickness)
Dustin's coughing attacks, back-aches and terrible headaches
Ryker's recent RSV and double ear infections (where were you?!?)
And your most recent case of sluffing (yesterday at 9 pm)- letting both Ashley and Ryker get the stomach flu resulting in this + crying all day:

As you may know, when you are absent, this affects everyone. Our bank account is terribly dissatissfied with your service (or lack-thereof), Ashley is just plain tired due to the every 2 hour puke-fest all night long and most offensive is your total lack of respect for our little man. Ryker is a sweet boy and the presence of your company is being officially requested at all times. (I really thought that was unnecessary, aren't you supposed to come standard on all models of babies?!)

16 months is long enough to be gone on your little vacation (is Hawaii nice?) In case you forgot, we are located in a little old house in Benson...not too hard to find. Is it the house? Do you need your own room? Let me know ASAP and that can be arranged.

We hope to peacefully resolve this situation but you and Sickness are currently on the list. Be warned.

Respectfully,
Ashley, Dustin and Ryker

PS- tell your friend Sleep that his presence is also requested. Since you are BFF, I assume you are vacationing together. Thanks!

Knock-Off Wood

2010-03-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

If you haven't heard about Knock-Off Wood, you really aren't living! The second I have a garage (and a babysitter), I am whipping out the power tools...okay, Dustin will whip out our borrowed power tools, we'll work away and furnish our house b.e.a.utifully for thousands less than purchased furniture.

Here's our (future) dining table

And benches!
Anywho...Ana- the owner and fabulous carpenter at KOW, makes absolutely NO money for her hard work on her extremely detailed plans. She looks at the fancy-schmancy websites like Pottery Barn and West Elm {swoon}, and then gives us plans (for free!) so we can build our own.

Pottery Barn is mad now...she uses their pictures (stating that they are knock-offs) and she now has to take those pictures down. Imagine...a company who makes way too much money off of something we can make ourselves and we support them?!?! (I don't think there is one in Utah, but still...)

So, scurry on over and check out Ana, and spread the word. Us bloggers should have freedom of speech, or the press, or whatever.

Gibberish

2010-03-05T12:59:00.000-08:00

I am so glad I have our wonderful brother in law as our general contractor. He knows how to speak gibberish. Reviewing our house plans with our equally wonderful drafter last night, I could have sworn we had been teleported to another country. "This can't be English" I thought- but I kept it to myself as to not look like a fool. (If you need either of these guys, let me know...he is beyond a perfectionist and does awesome work. She is super nice and by far the best deal around.)

Anyways, things are moving quickly now...a little too fast for me. I hate change, even though our new house is awesome. The lot, plans and mortgage will be rolling in the next 2 weeks...then it is a waiting game until I find a job...

Really, seriously? I thought I had credentials...*huge sigh* sometimes life just gets you down...I feel like a pretty big failure. Not that I ever feel supremely (diva-ishly) great about myself, but life.is.just.beating.me.down.

Alright...so we don't end on a bad note and you don't all think I am such a whiner...I saved 55% at Macey's yesterday. I am now getting good at this whole coupon thing most of the time (yay for success!). Best deals I found:
The whole coupon book they released, namely the $3 off meat (just look for "FP" after the name of the meat) Pick it up at the front of the store, most are good until the 16th, some until the 31st.
Stauffer's mac and cheese for $1.99 (same as the 1/2 pound!)- normally $3.49
3 liter water for 88 cents (normally $1.89)- Great for food/water storage.

Go here for more great deals and matchups!

Morbid decor and AA

2010-03-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

I will try to be sensitive as I explain this morbid? thought I had last night. I was at Allen Hall Mortuary to attend a viewing for a great neighbor of my mom's. I walked in and noticed they had redone their decor. I was there to pay my respects and I did graciously, but...man! It is seriously beautiful! White details with a mainly brown and blue theme. Most awesome were the mirrored dressers and other details throughout. Anyways...I am morbid and I want my house to look like the funeral home. Don't worry, I refrained from taking pictures or asking for the name of their decorator. Anyone else covet decor in odd places? Nope...alright then, I will keep it to myself :)

Other happenings...

We are getting our house plans drawn up on Thursday! The lot should be in our name by next week. Then, we wait...and wait...while I try to find a part time job that I don't want to go to. I think it shows in my interviews that I really want to be home with my little man *shrug*

My name is Ashley and I am addicted to coupons. I don't think this requires a trip to AlAnon but I may have to pay the cashiers to go to anger management classes. They don't have a coupon addiction, more like a hatred. I have kept track of my purchases and just in the last 2 days (I shop at the beginning of the month) we have saved over $45 or about 53%. YAY! Last week I saved about 80% on my shopping trip. I felt like a thief.

Just so you aren't completely picture-less...I made these sun shades and decorated with Ryker's favorite things (horses now trump deer, I just can't keep up). Tutorial here.

Reminisce Restoration

2010-02-26T13:43:00.000-08:00

My Photoshop class has come and gone and I loved every minute of it! Adam really needs a Photoshop 2 (and 3, and 4...) class because there is so much I still want to know. That's what You Tube is for :)

Anyways...to share my work, I started a blog! I also want to do some professional restoration because I really love to do it and want to Preserve the Past....

Anyways, go visit Reminisce Restoration and leave me some love (or constructive criticism)

THANKS!

Adventures

2010-02-25T16:01:00.001-08:00

I have been slacking on posting some of the fun stuff we have been up to along with pictures. So, I will keep it short word wise... here are lots of pictures from our trip to Hardware Ranch about a month ago. It was cold and a Sunday, so I was in my dress, high heel boots and nylons. The out-of-towners were talking about their double thermals under snow pants. It was 40 degrees! It was like August after the cold winter we have had here....Anyways, so much for being short! Here is the proof that it was fun!

Boys will be boys!

This one had his whole main beam broken off. Pretty crazy! My guys

In other news, Ryker is making messes, climbing and being all sorts of funny. Boy does he have a personality (and a love for shoes...I hope that is just a phase)!

Lovey oh lovey...

2010-02-19T11:03:00.000-08:00

Reading through my parenting magazine last night, I thoroughly read an article on sleep. In hopes that I will find the solution to our nighttime mayhem, I thought I would find good information. The only advice that I wasn't following to the tee was for your child to have a lovey. Makes sense- Ryker uses me as a lovey- placing his hand on my neck just before bed.
So my questions for you parents out there- does your baby have a lovey? What do they use as a lovey? Is it possible to introduce a lovey since he is so old- and how exactally do you do that?
So many questions about one little thing- but I am hoping that by the time he is like 16 he will sleep through the night and that lovey may just help!

Dun Dun Dun DUN!!!

2010-02-18T12:40:00.000-08:00

That title looks creepy...but it is supposed to be a trumpet, or whatever it is when you have big news...perhaps a drumroll would be better *rrrrrrrr BING* (I really don't know, but this is big. huge!)

We have picked a house plan! This is a bigger commitment than marriage...okay...well not really, BUT we are going to live in this house forever and always so I wanted perfection. I came close but that darn budget just wouldn't let us squeeze in a bonus room...Let's take a tour of the Hayword....

Note the changes...it is so so ORANGE but don't worry, my contractor brother-in-law is super good at making things look awesome.

Step inside to THIS:
Just a few changes....
1. Most important: flip the house like a mirror image so the garage is on the right to fit the lot better.
2. The den will be a bedroom and will have the door in the hallway near the other bedroom
3. Move the 3rd car to be a little set back and open to the front like the other garage. The spot where the third car is right now will be turned into a large patio.

Just a little disclaimer (mostly to myself). The bedrooms are somewhat far apart which makes me nervous...but like Dustin reminded me "they are big more than they are little" code for: Ryker will sleep one of these days. That great room is really where we will be as a family.

I want it done NOW! Plans are being drawn up next week as well as finalization on the lot YAY! We so need in there like right now- we have big dreams for a HUGE garden...who would have known my veggie hating husband would be so excited about our garden and seed catalog coming in the mail?!? Almost as good as the tax return that could be entirely blown on our mega awesome garden.

Scribbles About Sickness

2010-02-06T13:07:00.000-08:00

I swear that ^ is what I am going to name my blog from now on *sigh*
I really want to be able to share uplifting, fun things that we are doing as a family...or at least something postive...but, well, that is not what is happening in our life right now.
Ryker has double ear infections and RSV *double sigh*. The poor little guy was miserable with a fever that just kept climbing last night. He is now on two antibiotics, tylenol, ibuprofen, an inhaler, ear numbing drops and saline for his nose. It's no wonder he doesn't eat- his medicines all fill that little belly up. It was amazing to see how well he is taking everything. When the medicine started working, he was flirting and waving to the nurses that had just made him so upset. He is doing better and the medicine is working. I feel that I need to be more grateful so, here are the things I am grateful for right now:
Ryker's upbeat attitude about all the crap he has to go through
Medicine
Health Insurance!
A husband who provides so that I can stay home with Ryker
Our new house
A very supportive family

I really want him to be well and happy...he has had enough in his little life!

Just had to share!

2010-02-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

I just had to share the success I am having in my photoshop class! Here is a before and after:

Before

After

Results

2010-01-30T13:24:00.000-08:00

...or lack thereof. After all that worry, money and worst of all suffering on Ryker's part, we now have no answers. Luckily, there is nothing wrong with Ryker that they can find, but that leaves us with nothing to help the little guy.
He is now on a round of antibiotics to see if he perhaps has too many "good" bacteria. We also now have a whole team of nurses, occupational therapists, nutritionists, etc. on our side. The wonderful Up to 3 program through USU (which I worked for for about 8 months) will be at our house starting Friday. This is great because hopefully they can help Ryker (and help me help Ryker) learn to eat again. He is down to one "staple" in his diet- raisins. He literally won't let anything else near his mouth. He also won't feed himself anything else either. He may eat a few goldfish or captain crunch berries (never ever the yellow bits of captain crunch!) Really, he is not eating anything that will help him grow. Pediasure is our BFF now and hopefully we will get him through this rough time.
He is also not sleeping in his own bed anymore. I KNOW!!! I was told and told again- once they are there they never leave. I also knew that my son was so uncomfortable he needed reassurance at night....tough situation. Once we are through the antibiotics, I am going to try to retrain him and get him sleeping through the night (I know, pity party on my part- I have not slept through the night since he was born....15 months to be exact!)
Thanks to my dear mom, that statement above is not true. She took Ryker last night and he did great with just him and Grandma. Dustin and I just relaxed and slept. YAY!
I also found a job. I will start next month. It is for a company in Malad (boo for the long drive) I will be working with children with behavioral problems (sometimes adults too). Helping people function better (do you think I could counsel myself?!) It pays really well and I will only be there 2 days a week which I will schedule myself. I love that my whole family is within 20 minutes so Ryker will be in great hands when I go.
House plans are still nonexistent. The lot stuff is taking for...ev...er... Starting in March may be a longshot, but that is what we are shooting for.
Wow...what a long post! Sorry about that! Have a good weekend!

Tamale Time

2010-01-27T08:06:00.000-08:00

Ahhh...I totally forgot to share with you another project that I completed like 2 weeks ago! We have a major obsession with taquitos and other mexican snacks at our house! Problem- they are like $5 a box and we were buying 2-3 a month...so, I decided to try my hand at making tamales. Just wanted to share my experience because with that much time and energy going into these things, I was afraid that I would hate them. FYI: I am in love!

These are not mine, but similar.

I had a lot of frozen pork and chicken that needed to be used so that was practically free? I had to buy quite a few things but the spices, oil and masa can be used quite a few more times. So, I used the recipe found here. Super easy, although the rolling instructions confused me. So, here is another way to roll them at Make and Takes, and the next recipe I am going to try.

I ended up with like 4 dozen frozen tamales, 2 bags of frozen meat and 2 dozen we ate fresh. This was not too hard, except the fact that I had a toddler hanging on me the whole time. At least we will be enjoying our tamales for months :)

So, go on out and make yourself a whole bunch of tamales and share your results!

Just Something I Whipped Up...

2010-01-27T07:03:00.000-08:00

I have fallen in love with Tatertots and Jello blog and all the delish burlap projects. I found a cute wreath that I knew I needed to try. Using my fabric scraps, spare embellishments, a preused wreath form and just $1.50 worth of remnant burlap (with leftovers to spare!) I came up with this Valentine's inspired wreath.

Go on over to Tatertots and Jello and get some inspiration!

Oh, oh...I haven't shared my house numbers that I made in the fall. I needed them to be able to be seen from the road for my lovely AVON delivery service and everyone else that cannot find my house...so they are huge. Just used my cricket and some leftover vinyl. My wreath does obscure them but really, it's cute enough to get away with that! Also, ignore the icky looking door...we rent :)

And... a picture of Ryker. With crazy hair. And milk all over his face.

Little Trooper

2010-01-21T12:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Ryker's scope. It was a very long day for all of us, but oveall it went well. He was a trooper and was back to eating his french fries by 8 o'clock.

We left Logan at 9:30, arrived at noon, he went in at 1:40 and I was back with him by 3:40 and we left at 6 pm...wow. He had some medicine before he left that made him calm and it was a good thing because he was not having anything to do with anyone but mommy. I love Primary Children's (as much as you can love a hospital.) The anestesiologist came and put Ryker in a wagon with a toy and then pulled him into the procedure room. As soon as he rounded the corner and said "we'll see you later", I was out of there. I would have ran down the hall and scooped Ryker up if I had heard him cry when he realized we weren't there.

As far as results go, there was nothing visibly wrong. He has a couple places with bumps, but those can just be normal. Dr. Wu took lots of biopsies to check if his villi were abnormal, if he has enzymes to digest sugar, if he has a chronic infection....

Overall, we were impressed. There were 4-5 nurses with him the whole time. We were the only ones there because he was the last procedure. Results should be in next week so hopefully there is a magic pill that will make him feel like a million bucks.

Keeping my Sanity

2010-01-21T07:43:00.000-08:00

...or at least attempting to.

This has been a hard few months. Even though Ryker is SO much fun and I love him oodles, the stress, sleeplessness and constant worry are really hard to cope with. To keep my hopes up, I have had to find stuff to do to keep my mind off of everything. Oh, add in the stress of building a house and finding a job and you have one super stressed, often crazy wife and mother.

So... I turn to:

Scrapbooking. We made cute covers for 43 CDs for Kristi's Young Women...beautiful songs to go with their theme-Joshua 1:9, look it up! Great message, "Be Not Afraid".

Ignore the poor quality pictures in this post. Most were taken on my phone.

They turned out great and I really did love helping out!

Along with this, I am taking a 7 week course in Photoshop and hopefully I can learn how to actually make my pictures look good! We worked on this picture last night. I didn't get finished but I went from

THIS!

To This :)

Crafting. Making 3 jewelry holders for my mother-in-law, Kristi and I. I LOVE THEM and they are easy and cheap (under 6 dollars total). Let me know if you would like a tutorial or info on how I made them.

Bargain shopping. I love after Christmas sales and I love the dollar store. Put them together and you get these B.E.A.Utiful decorations for our tree next year :) Can you believe all this for under $4.50! Regularly $18! I also picked up some huge blue sparkly ball ornaments for 25 cents! I can't wait for Christmas!

I recently found a few new websites for coupons and deals and have picked up 12 bottles of salsa for 14 cents and hamburger helper. Dustin loves this and it makes my life easy plus... it covers up the taste of our free elk burger :)

Food storage. This is where the salsa comes in....I can make like 4 meals a month with each jar so I am getting an awesome deal. At Smiths this week, I also picked up some Dinty Moore stew (a favorite for both meals and camping) for $1.79 each. I think they are like twice that normally. I also have started stocking up on water, both bottled (2.50 at Smiths) and filling my empty apple juice jugs. I found a great website: foodstoragemadeeasy.com and have one of my 72 hour kits completed!

So...in short, those are my stress relievers, but I would really just like Ryker to FEEL BETTER so we can all get a break. What is most heartbreaking to me (other than his pain) is the fact that I don't know what a "normal" baby is like and fear that I can't have more children because I could not do this again...*sigh*...so let me know what you do for stress relief and any tips on bargain shopping or food storage would be greatly appreciated.

Scope

2010-01-17T10:49:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to do a quick update. It is luck of the draw as to how Ryker is feeling and how he sleeps. We are hanging in there though...
We have a scope scheduled for him on Wednesday the 20th at noon. I can't feed him anything for 24 hours! Just clear liquids and then nothing at all except water for 12 hours before then no sippy to help him out on the way down....poor little guy!
The thoughts of turning a crying, scared little guy over to the nurses who will then poke him and make him fall asleep literally makes me sick to my stomach. I really don't know if I can do it! Although it isn't "surgery", he still is being put under anesthesia and I still have to let me little boy go for a time. I can't even go to a movie or out for the night because I hate to be away from him...
I sure hope something comes out of this that can help him because he does not deserve any of it. It makes me so anxious to think about how all this will affect him in the future. What if he can't eat like the others? What will it do to him if he can't have sleepovers with his friends? What stigma will be attached to him if he is on medication and sick? :(
The things I am doing now just seem so inadequate. Everyday I feel more and more insufficient. I think "Someone else can do this better and make him feel better and make Ryker grow into a better child and adult." I guess my solace is knowing that I am his comfort. I alone can make him feel better when he is sick. I am just going to have to let the "supermom" ideals fall away for a time and just offer comfort to this little man.
Wish us luck and prayers are always appreciated. Thank you for all of your support.

A Little Longer...

2010-01-12T13:43:00.001-08:00

I keep telling myself "hold on, just a little bit longer. Things WILL get better!" Today is not one of those days. It is not my day, this sucks and I want OUT!

This week has SUCKED! Ryker is getting worse. Horrible pain everynight with nothing that we can do to help. He "sleeps" in our bed and is waking earlier and earlier to do so. Tossing, turning, hitting his head on our noses and the headboard just trying desperately to get away from the pain- you get the picture. Little sleep, little hope, little relief, more worry and more crankiness during the day have left me worn right out. On top of that, this situation is steadily going downhill even though we are doing everything we can. Give. Me. A. Break!

Got a call from the doctor (who I think is the best there is). He said that Ryker's tests show that he has some inflammation going on in his intestines and it could be caused by either a chronic infection, Crohn's disease or some other disorder. Grrreat...so what do we do now? My little guy has to be put under anesthesia and have some scopes done. When? I don't know-but I already dread that day. So... now we wait, and wait and wait because you know- we will have the scope and it will take up to a week for results to come back and another week to actually get treatment (if there is any). This, in my book isn't a light at the end of the tunnel...just a shot in the dark hoping that he will somehow get relief.

I worry so much that this will be forever- like my Grandma says "it has already been forever because it was yesterday, today and tomorrow. That is forever!" The thoughts of putting him under anesthesia and even more pain make me sick to my stomach. The thoughts that he will live like this forever is also eating away at me. Alright- have to stop myself because I could go on and on...

I am going to rant a bit, so please avert your eyes if you aren't wanting to listen. I understand. Parenting is supposed to be hard- I get that! But this? THIS? The worrying, the fear, the sadness, the hopelessness- they are overtaking the precious time I have with Ryker as a baby. There isn't a second during the day that I am not worrying about his eating, sleeping, growth, pain or even the possibility that he might not grow up. No one knows what this is like because well, no one that I know has gone through this. All the kids I know are healthy. Not a one that doesn't sleep and eat. What am I doing wrong? <---there is my rant. I am finished...for now.

Someone, please let me off this ride- it is not fun and is just picking up speed.

Updates

2010-01-04T10:42:00.000-08:00

I have caught up a lot so check below if you want to know how Christmas was for us :)

Ryker-
His tummy is still bad. Our Primary Children's appointment gave us a lot of hope. We are waiting for test results and going back in for another test Friday. The doctor is testing for pancreatic enzyme disfunctions (would require medication), celiac disease (would require special diet) and cystic fibrosis again (this is not good and scares me, so we won't talk about it).
I think he is also allergic to pomegranites. He had an allergic reaction with terrible, bleeding diaper rash while I wasn't there :( He seems okay today, but his little bum is still burned :(

Ashley-
Enjoying being home and not in school. I am looking into a part-time job and haven't heard back from the three places I applied. I am loving being a stay at home mom and loving my time with Ryker!

Dustin-
Working hard but enjoying his time off. He has been snowmobiling a few times and loved his time off and playing with Ryker. They are best pals and I love watching their relationship!

Fun!

2010-01-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

Oh wow, I must have been really busy lately- funny thing is, my appointment book looks like this ____________________ completely blank!! No school, no work- just fun!

We have been having a whole lot of fun lately! New Years Eve brought lots of fun at Dustin's parents. We have quite a puzzle obsession lately and also have been having fun playing spoons and oh darn!

New Years Day brought, guess what, MORE games at Grandma Nielsen's! We had good food and lots of fun. I love being with everyone so much- it is too bad that we are always so busy.

Like Dustin and I always tell each other- "there is never enough time or money!"

Dustin has found a little time out in the powder- Ryker thought he would help daddy get ready to go snowmobiling.

I have learned since Ryker was born to not take for granted or waste time EVER!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

Yay horray! Santa came! He brought Ryker a stick horse, hut and mini tractors! He loved it all and hides in his hut all the time.

We had a very busy Christmas (as usual). Grandma Shanna's party on the Sunday before Christmas was fancy ;) Grandpa Jay's party on Christmas Eve was crazy as always! Grandma Nielsen's on Christmas morning did not disappoint. Grandma Baers was a nice place to catch up.

We really enjoyed our first Christmas that Ryker actually, well kindof understood!

I love being around family and friends and the wonderful feeling that Christmas brings.

What a Big Girl!

2010-01-04T10:09:00.000-08:00

Our niece Nikelle turned 3 just before Christmas. I cannot believe how big she is and how fast her first 3 years have flown by! To celebrate we went sledding at Old Main- my neurotic, worry wart self has a hard time watching people fly down the hill toward cars without anything to stop them, but it was fun :)

Birthday Girl!

I love this cute picture! Kristi, Colby and Kelle

Us! Ignore my high heel boots- I did not know we were going sledding :)

All Bundled Up!

YES!

2009-12-13T20:06:00.000-08:00

I am DONE with my bachelors degree at Utah State University!

I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS in Psychology with minors in both Biology and Chemistry.

Commencement was December 12th and probably the best day since Ryker was born! My whole family was there and I so appreciate their support. I couldn't have done it without ALL of them! Ryker was such a champ- he walked with me when I received my diploma! He slept through the whole thing but it was great to carry him knowing that he is the reason I do everything I do.

My grandma Joyce wrote a beautiful poem and I honored her and my grandpa with a stoll of gratitude. What a truly perfect day! (minus the snow!)

So what now? I am going to find a part-time job and am qualified for quite a few different positions. With the economy, I will pretty much take what I can get. Really, I am a mommy first but with a new house an extra income will help.

Christmas Crash and Burn

2009-12-10T18:19:00.000-08:00

Avert your eyes if you want our Christmas card to be a suprise! :)
I KNOW! STINKING cute huh? My friend Chelsie over at CS Cards designed them and I am so in love. They will have a little "whats new" letter with them and will be mailed out this week! YAY! Seriously go visit Chelsie for all your card and invitations!

Anyways, this year we decided to veto the usual Christmas tree. Why have one more danger in this too-small house for our little man when he already looks like this:

I know, I know- where are his parents? The cut on the cheek is from falling into a table while wearing his massive puffy coat. The ding on the forehead- got bucked off his bronc. The unrelated bruise? A tumble over Mommy's back, sans hands. He looks neglected, but really he is just so tipsy lately! Too fast- his balance just can't keep up!

We decorated our house so I thought I would post a few of my favorite decorations.

Advent calender that Ryker is loving! I guess this could count as our tree?

I made this sign and am loving it! (Yes, four stockings, I guess I get an extra one :)

I love the center sign- "Jesus once was a little child" and my Christus is by far my favorite all year decoration.

Well, there is the grand tour :) Hope you are all ready for Christmas, because I sure am not!

Family Fun

2009-12-05T07:47:00.000-08:00

Lately we have really been enjoying being our own little family. With Ryker getting older, it is more fun to take him places because he genuinely enjoys going out. In the past few weeks, we have taken a drive to Hardware Ranch to see the elk- suprise, no snow=no elk. It was a quick, cold, windy trip and this picture is terrible, but we still had fun talking and enjoying the scenery on the way up.

Ryker hates sleep, but he loves naps with Daddy. Here they are on the couch in "the thinker" and "quit taking pictures" positions. I love my guys!

We went to our ward party last night. It was really fun and great food. Dustin and I switched off taking Ryker to run the halls. All the other babies (toddlers?) his age sit very content...not our maniac! He was squealing and trying to pound on the piano and well, being himself. Tyson, a neighbor boy has a little brother the same age as Ryker and he played with Ryker all night saying "my baby doesn't walk yet! Look at him walk! (VERY loud forced laugh) He keeps saying tee-tee! (Another laugh)" Man, it was so fun to see him interact with other kids. I am sure we are the "bad parents" in our ward because our kid doesn't know how to "behave" but hey, how do you discipline a 1 year old and "make" him sit still. I say mission impossible.

Anyways, this is getting long. They had Santa come and I thought- oh, Ryker loves everyone! He will be fine...

Not so! Screaming bloody murder the second I put him on his lap. This picture makes me laugh so hard though (I know, scared does not equal funny, but I beg to differ!) Check out another post below for everything that makes me giggle about Ryker.

We are so glad we have our little guy and can experience being a kid all over again!

This kid...

2009-12-05T07:27:00.000-08:00

....makes me giggle!
He:

Puts 'nannas' on his head and says "uh-oh!" Screamed bloody murder the second we put him on Santa's lap (this one especially makes me giggle- is it mean to find humor in his pain?)

Gets a Carrot-top beard while eating spaghettios

Looks like a G in that hat and shirt (ignore the yucky carpet-we rent, remember)

Beware: mustache picture....

Thinks daddy's mustache was silly. I on the other hand found it to be absolutely horrendous. This was the last picture with that horrid thing- disclaimer: my husband is the hottest guy around- sans mustache!

Waits patiently for mommy when she goes to warm up the car in the mornings. I return to this huge grin across his face- love him!

I love my little guy and the many giggles he gives me everyday. Kids really do keep you young (except that no sleep part :)

The Good (No Bad or Ugly)

2009-11-30T15:18:00.000-08:00

We got Ryker's test results and the good news is that he does not have celiac disease or cystic fibrosis! Don't get me wrong- I am very glad that he does not have a serious disease. We just can't help him becuase we don't know what is wrong! So so frustrating, but now we wait until we go see the great doctors down at Primary Childrens (December 12th). Thanks for all the support and prayers- they are very much appreciated.

In other news- we have chosen a house plan!! We still haven't got the lot stuff all squared away (hopefully by late January) but since the owner kind of likes us we think he is still game to have us as neighbors :)

Anyways- let me have your input- the good, the bad and the ugly.

Here is the outside- it will be jazzed up a bit with some rock and hardy board. It will be darker too. There will also be 3 dormers on the roof. Basically, it won't look like this :)

Here is the houseplan itself. Horrible picture but I don't know how to get a bigger one. Anyways, there are a few changes that I tried to write in. They are just small: double sided wood burning fireplace, mudroom, walk in pantry and possibly a half bath added to the back of the house near the laundry and minor changes in the master bath.

Things I LOVE about this plan:
Huge master (16X21) and large bedrooms (12X12)
Nice open living area with a large island in the kitchen (don't be suprised if I never ever leave that kitchen).
Fireplace and nice sitting area in back- I can envision myself sitting in my sunroom (I have always wanted one!) sitting with a book, blanket, hot cider and a nice fire reading a book while the snow falls. *sigh*
Large walk in pantry for all of my future canning.
Bonus room for crafts and lots of family fun!
Dustin just loves the 3 car garage and we will be adding a lift for him to perfect his Camaro.

There is also a bonus room above the whole house that doubles our space (YEAH!) Since we can't have a basement due to the high water table, we are building up.

Seriously, tell me your input because living in this cracker box, I have no real ideas as to what makes a great house!

I CANNOT WAIT!

A Start

2009-11-24T16:12:00.000-08:00

We went to our much anticipated doctor's appointment today. He is a great doctor and has given me some hope. He is running test to check for: lactose intolerance, milk protein intolerance, celiac disease and cystic fibrosis. Those last two scare me to death but I am not going to worry until we get results next week.
My little guy is so tough- literally! We had to do a sweat test for the CF and he HATED having his arm held for 5 minutes. We then had to let him run around for 25 minutes (just what he loves!) but he touched a hot piece of metal when on his adventures :( Then came the hardest part, we had to do the blood test twice, so he has battle wounds on both arms :( :( The nurses were amazed at how strong he was and how hard he fought. That's my man!
So now, we wait...wait for the results and wait for our doctor's appointment at Primary's on December 21st....but at least it's a start.

Failure...

2009-11-16T08:26:00.000-08:00

I will get to the failure part but I thought I would throw in a little bit of the craziness in our lives lately.
I am still trying to finish up with school (only 2 more weeks!) I have tests, assignments, papers, discussions...something due everyday. I will be so glad when this is all over! If you hear a loud "WAHOO!" on December 12th, don't worry, it's just me letting everyone know that I am free!
I have also been super busy with AVON. I had two boutiques this weekend and they both went well. I also now have 7 people working under me so that keeps me busy but I am really enjoying it!
On to the not so fun stuff that isn't looking like we'll have answers soon.... As you know if you read my blog, Ryker has acid reflux. We don't know what has happened in the last few weeks but it has gotten much worse. He is now on a fairly restricted diet and on the maximum medication that his little body will allow. Good news- he has increased in height quite a bit and is at the 57th percentile for height. He has not gained weight for three months and hadn't gained for the previous three months either. I think he is maybe a pound heavier than he was at 6 months.
Anyhow, the doctors up here can't do anything so we are scheduled at Primary Children's on December 21st. What a long wait when my little guy is in pain! I have an appointment with Dr. Armstrong up here next week because I hear he's the best.
I think this may be the hardest thing I have ever been through. I can't do anything for my sick baby and his cry is so sad because he is in pain. The constant wiggling to try to get comfortable, gulping swallows to try to keep the acid down and inability to sleep is all really getting to me because I can't do anything! Perhaps the worst is when I called the doctor last week and they repeated his notes to me. Included was the diagnosis of "failure to thrive". I can't think of a worse term. To a mother (or at least me) it sounds like "well, you don't do enough or feed him enough or take care of him well enough!" I know I know, it's a term to describe his poor weight gain but come on- FAILURE to THRIVE?!?!
Hopefully next week holds the answers we are looking for.
PS- happy post below about birthdays.

Let's Party!

2009-11-16T08:10:00.000-08:00

At our house, late October and November are busy with birthdays! Dustin turned 24 on October 22nd and we went to Texas Roadhouse to celebrate.
Ryker's first birthday was November 5th! I cannot believe it has been a whole year! We had a party that Saturday. Thanks to all the family who came! We had a potato bar and a frogs and snails and puppy dog tails theme. It was really fun and he sure got a lot of fun stuff. I was busy setting up so I didn't get my own pictures, so I am just waiting for my Grandma's pictures.
Ryker got a push car, lots of clothes, cowboy boots, camo suspenders, a cute toy puppy dog, rocking chair.... I am sure I am missing something!
For my birthday, on November 11th I had a fun day with the girls making necklaces at Beadles. We went to (where else!) Texas Roadhouse that night also! Thanks for all the gifts and love on my birthday!

1 YEAR!

2009-11-05T09:16:00.000-08:00

One year ago today, I first held the cutest little boy ever. It has been such a crazy year and I can't believe it has gone by so fast! He is full of life and is so interested in everything. I love that he can't miss a thing and know that in the future he will be so successful because of his enthusiasm.

I have had so much fun being a mommy. I am blessed to be this crazy kid's mommy and know that in the next year it will be just as fun and filled with suprises as this year.

Happy Birthday Little Man! We love you!

Thanks Nikelle (Ryker's Cousin) for this great Happy Birthday Song!

Halloween

2009-11-01T16:42:00.000-08:00

For Ryker's first Halloween we had to spread the festivities over two days! On Friday we went to a carnival and our ward's trunk or treat. Ryker was very excited and kept waving his hands because he was so happy. We got a lot of candy that he has been bringing to me to open for him ever since.

Halloween wasn't the best day. He had been up a lot the night before and I had a cold. We didn't do much during the day but then went and ate pizza and trick-or-treated at Grandma and Grandpa Nielsen's. We went to Grandma and Grandpa Baer's and he got his favorite- animal cookies! Then it was off to the Nielsen Great Grandparents. It was a fun night and Ryker was so cute in his outfit!

We had no trick-or-treaters at our house and it was too bad because I had rice krispy treats to give out! Oh well, more for me!

Changing

2009-10-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

I know...what a sweet little stud muffin :)

Ryker has been changing so fast! He learns not just one new thing everyday but about 10 it seems like! Some of his most recent accomplishments:

Saying Daddy (Dustin is so proud!)

Saying "vrooom!" with lots of spit bubbles when pushing his trucks

Saying something that resembles "thank you"

Bringing me things he wants, like the whole box of graham crackers or whole huge bag of cereal :)

Kissing me right on the lips, open mouthed. He will not take "no" for an answer! I know, he will be real smooth with the ladies :)

Making messes...big messes.

Knowing when he is in trouble before he gets reprimanded...and he's starting to get sneaky!

Walking quite a bit! Climbing a lot!

Bringing me books to read. His favorite- The Foot Book by Dr. Seuss

And I am sure I have missed so so much. He is so fun and I am sad to see him getting big.

In other news, Dustin got a deer! We are enjoying steak, roast and quite a bit of jerky. Mmmmm...

Enjoying Autumn...

2009-10-28T19:36:00.000-07:00

I call it autumn because Dustin thinks saying fall is kind of weird...I know, there are only two seasons in Utah- Freezing and Blistering hot. I love the way too short in between seasons, except for Halloween. I hate Halloween...I know, it's almost worse than hating Christmas to some people!

We have been out and about enjoying the good weather that has now left. The highlight was playing outside in the sand box with trucks. Entertained my little man for almost 2 hours!

Today we went to the Pumpkin Walk. It apparently ended last night (why so early?!) Anyways, between the freezing cold, having my keys locked in my car and a slightly runny nose...Ryker and I survived and had some fun with his cousin.

I was very proud of myself today. I had my niece who is almost 3 and Ryker. Somehow, I managed to still pull off my "autumn supper". The menu included potato corn turkey chowder and pumpkin rolls. Seriously DE. LISH! and super easy. Check out the soup recipe here. Try to withhold your laughter when looking at my rolls. They look a lot like the carved pumpkins are looking this late in the season...droopy, misshapen, just plain ugly. Oh well, it was fun! I just rolled them in orange food coloring and then put a stem on top...ta da!

It's okay to look away :) Dustin refused to eat them...

I LOVE AUTUMN! Seems that it has now passed...oh well, there is still Thanksgiving to look forward to before I have to submit to winter fully!

What a year...

2009-10-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

A year ago today was one of the saddest days of my life and my families lives. We lost my step-dad Steve after a short, but very hard illness. We have been through so much in this year. I remember going to my Mom's house and praying that I wouldn't go into labor. Now, I have a bouncing little boy who is walking, but am also missing 2 of the best guys I knew. My grandpa Clynn also died the night before Ryker was born (November 4th). Here's what I remember about these 2 great men:

Steve
You were always smiling. Hunting was your thing (you would be proud- Dustin's trying to get his BBD *big buck down*) We think about you a lot when Dustin uses your elk call to get Ryker excited, or when he puts on your camo.
I remember that you told me I have a lot of dads and that you will always be there for me and it is true, but I miss you a lot and wish you were here. You sent me Ryker and I see a lot of you in him (mesmerized by those elk and loves the outdoors!)
We spent a lot of time together in the months before you passed. You were so so positive and give me so much inspiration to get through my trials. I walked into the specialty hospital for the first time last week- where we spent lots of time and where we got the news. I thought it would be hard, and it was, but I was comforted knowing that you aren't in pain anymore and that you did meet Ryker.
Thanks for being a great dad to me and for always being such a fun, loving person. Miss you and love you lots!

Grandpa Clynn
I remember the first time I layed eyes on you...what a sad day but you made me so comfortable (little back story- I met him at my Dad's funeral and had never met that part of my family before). Your love for me was always there, even though I wasn't there.
You were also such a fun person. I loved d the time we spent talking. You made me feel so welcome into the family and I never once doubted that you loved me. You also were a great example of strength in hard times.
Although I only got to know you for a short while, I really love you. You overnighted Ryker straight to us and I can just see you smiling as you sent me this fun, crazy boy and said "good luck! He's going to be a fun little handful!" Love you and miss you!

Since I couldn't let myself end this post while crying- I thought I would give some happy news.
RYKER IS WALKING! Yay horray! He is so brave and stands up and takes 4-5 steps, falls down and right back up he gets! He has also taken a liking to bringing me things. This morning it was graham crackers that he wanted opened and this afternoon- every book he owns. He also has become even more lovey and gives big open mouth kisses that leave me with slobber all over and a big grin on my face. Thanks Steve and Grandpa Clynn for sending me my fun little guy!

Spoiled

2009-10-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

I am so spoiled in two ways- one: I have the greatest family ever who really take care of me and two: I already know what I am getting for my birthday and Christmas. Takes the fun out of it, but I am sure that the gifts will more than make up for it! So, what am I getting?!?

This:
and this:

The first is a steam cleaner that I have wanted since I got married- so much easier and safer to clean with. Clean house, here I come!
The second is my BRIGHT PINK! laptop. Mine died and with school I really need another one.
Best. Day. EVER!

I love you family, thanks for spoiling me!

1 Year Pictures

2009-10-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

My grandma Shanna took these pictures for Ryker's first birthday- November 5th. I love this cute little man to pieces!

This makes him look just like Dustin!

My favorite!

His new "snorty" face!

Changes

2009-10-09T08:29:00.000-07:00

Ryker is changing so fast and learning so many things! In the past week he has learned to:

Give a high-five!
Say "uh-oh"
Take 2-3 steps!
Laugh out loud to get our attention (he thinks he is so neat!)
Make a lot more sounds that sounds like talking
Make me so proud and happy!

I am going to start an AVON fundraiser (see previous post) for the Billings family special needs children. They have 9 adopted children all with special needs. They were gunned down for absolutely no reason in their own home in Florida. Now their oldest daughter is raising all 9, trying to keep up with 2 mortgages and the will her parents had is not valid (can you IMAGINE
?!?) I was shocked that they had only had $1100 donated to them! 40% of the price of all products ordered will go to their children. Read more about the family by clicking on the picture (they were on Oprah yesterday).
I will post a link so that you can buy the products (lotion, bubble bath, body wash, body spray and hand sanitizer). If you would be willing to help by circulating flyers to your neighborhood or ward I will give you a free gift! Thanks!

Fundraisers

2009-10-07T16:58:00.000-07:00

I have a desire...to help someone, anyone! I have been looking for a good cause to help for months now. Being an AVON representative, I can do fundraisers that yield awesome results (40% proceeds!) I found this great cause, Taylie Abbott has cancer and lives in the Valley. By posting her link someone is donating $2 everytime! Click on her picture to visit her website:
(what a cute girl!)
Repost her link (on your blog, facebook, twitter...) and let Kylene at A Dash of Season know so that the money can be donated!

I contacted Taylie's family, so hopefully I can help out with a fundraiser in the near future.

Anyways, if any of you know of any other great causes that you want to raise money for, let me know. It is so simple and with the holidays right around the corner, it is the perfect time to have a fundraiser!

Last Chance

2009-09-28T13:53:00.001-07:00

We took advantage of our last chance to go to the zoo last week. I don't want it to get cold, especially since Ryker will be walking soon. What will I do in this little cracker box I call my home?!?
The zoo is so fun and Ryker actually really enjoyed it this time. He watched the monkeys very closely (maybe to learn their ways, I threaten to leave him there everytime we go...such a monkey!) Speaking of monkeys, that is what Ryker is being for Halloween and I am so excited- this coming from the girl who would rather lock her doors, turn off all the lights and hide when Halloween rolls around...
Where were we? Oh yeah, the zoo. Here are pictures (my camera, or the operator (me, not Kristi) clearly sucks at taking pictures, so please bear with me! Also, I look bad and can't figure out why...)

Baby elephant Zirri- SO cute!
Fun times!

Silly

2009-09-28T13:37:00.001-07:00

There are many things to smile about everyday. I smile because I know that no other job on earth allows you to have a giggling baby climbing all over you while you are happily cleaning. I love staying at home! Here are some silly adventures from the past few weeks:

We also dressed him up in his Alcatraz outfit that my mom got on her trip a little while ago. It says "Alcatraz Penitentary Fugitive...you never saw me." So cute!

Then tere is Ryker's silly way of sleeping. He is always wiggling and moving. This is how I found him during his nap the other day...

That my friends, is an ear next to a foot...
He keeps me on my toes!

Crafting

2009-09-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Since I am getting into the crafting mode (more to keep myself busy and avoid my homework :)
I thought I would share this giveaway from This gem- called the Work Box is being given away. Can you IMAGINE?!?! I want it, I need it! I have to have it! Click the picture to go to the website to ooo and ahhh!
Also, check out this great desk that keeps everything where you can see it! I want this too...anyone looking for a Christmas present for me? :)
Enter this code when you place your order at The Original Craft Box to get $100 off your shipping: 100Writes.
Go enter yourself (and keep my Christmas present in mind...I need it!)

These are all the blogs where you can enter!

Rachelle's Writing Spot
Life as Lou

Capcadia Designs

Growing up...

2009-09-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

I have been a slacker. Ryker is starting to get big SO fast and I haven't been keeping up well. In the last month, he:
Said his first words: Mama, Banana, Apple, Dada, Grandma...
Got very fast at crawling and "mogely walking"
Started to stand on his own
Shakes his head "no-no-no" all the time (but thankfully doesn't get the meaning...yet)
Waves
Gives lots of lovies and kisses
And I am sure lots more that I have missed.
He is so dang fun, I can't stand it. He is busy as a bee all the time, so that is why my house looks like it does :)
Here are some recent pictures:

Silly faces!

Riding to the dam...kind of a tight fit! :)

Nothing better than swimming naked while eating licorice!

Anniversary Weekend

2009-09-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

2 years ago...Honeymoon in Mexico

We headed to Wendover this weekend for a late anniversary celebration. It was SO much fun! It was the first time I have left Ryker so I was very nervous, but it turned out great!

We stayed at the Montego Bay and went to Gary Allan last night. His concert was SO much fun! He is a great performer and it was a little bit rock and roll too. I had called to see if cameras were allowed and they told me know...well we get there and they were allowed. I was so mad! We have a few fuzzy, far away pictures from my phone but I will spare you and let you look at a good picture of him.

We actually saw some friends from high school there and went to the Red Garter with them for a little while and watched them lose their money :) All in all it was a great night. We enjoyed getting away and having some time to ourselves.

Our room...had to get one picture of something! :)

I was worried sick about Ryker when we first left but he fell asleep no problem but then decided that his wake up time would be 4:30 am. My mom said he was very good, just a little confused. I am so glad and love my little man so much.

It has been a crazy 2 years filled with work, school, changing jobs, having a baby, house shopping and finally getting our dream house...and a lot of love along the way. It has been a lot of fun and I am so looking forward to the adventures to come with my two guys! Love you both SO SO SO much!

Chicken without a head

2009-09-17T12:15:00.000-07:00

That is what I feel like today, and yesterday. The worst of it all? I don't have ANY motivation to do ANYTHING productive. Crafting? I have all the energy but zero talent. I got out my dusty sewing machine to "hurry" and "whip together" a cover for Ryker's highchair. It HAD to be done yesterday because the poor guy sits with his legs up because it is cracked and scratches him. So, I fought with the bobbin (who invented THOSE?!?), couldn't unscrew the needle to replace it, failed at sewing the ribbon on...then gave up.
Meanwhile, my homework is also collecting dust and I have a bazillion things to do around the house...
Ever have those days? I feel so...unsuccessful. I need a vacation, good thing I am getting one in 2 days! YAY! But also :( I will miss the little one so much it hurts.
PS- this too shall pass and I know that he said it wouldn't be easy, just worth it.

My love...

2009-09-12T09:50:00.000-07:00

GARY ALLAN! :) Sorry Dustin, I love him...

We are going to the Gary Allan concert a week from today and I am SO SO SO excited. I even had a dream- I was madly in love and Gary and I ran off together. (A girl can dream right...)
Anyways, I updated my playlist to gear myself up because this will be the first time that I am going to leave Ryker for more than like 4 hours. It's overnight, in Wendover- way too far to come back to kiss him goodnight. I hope I survive.

Are you also wiping the drool off? :)

Say "Elk"...

2009-09-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

That seems to be Dustin's new goal in life- for Ryker to say "elk". I think that he would be more excited if he said that than "daddy"!

So on Labor day we went and saw a real. life. ELK! Ryker loved it and especially loved spending time with his daddy! Who needs the monkey or the elephant or the tigers...we want to see elk!

I haven't posted in a while so check out the updates below too.

Here Ducky Ducky

2009-09-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

Ryker loves to go to the park and especially loves feeding the ducks. We have been to so many parks so many times this summer...I just love it!

I think the reason he likes it is because he can eat the bread

The little old couple- I can see them at 90 still going to feed the ducks :)

Monte

2009-09-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

Dustin's family has land up Monte Cristo and we had never taken advantage of this nice camping spot as a family. It is usually reserved for the hunters only :) but since we all have families now, the whole family went up for a few weekends. There is a park, which is AWESOME for the kids and FLUSHING TOILETS (my idea of camping). Thanks to Josh and Nat we got a great ride- the Terex and so it would seem that our camping trip would be perfect...but NO!

Ryker is not and has never been a good sleeper. That is especially true when we are not at home. Well, having 7 people in his parent's trailer and him waking up at midnight screaming wasn't my idea of fun. It SUCKED! Come to find out the poor guy had hand-foot-and mouth disease! Anyways, I vow not to take him camping again until next year. Hopefully it gets easier when he is older...

I got to go scout for elk with the guys and we saw 3 spikes. It was fun, but not fun enough that I would want to go every weekend! Dustin tried to bow hunt...having never shot a bow before...needless to say he didn't get one :) Next up- rifle deer hunt.

Dishwasher

2009-08-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

This is how I keep my self busy while Mommy is cleaning...

I am a pretty good dishwasher! I could do this for hours.

Trials

2009-08-11T19:19:00.000-07:00

Along with all of the fun, exciting events, this past week has been full of trials for me (Ashley). At times like these you just want someone to talk to. Often times, the person you really want to talk to isn't available. There is plenty of support but I really like an outside opinion and someone who will just listen.
At times like these I turn to my Heavenly Father. I love primary songs and have been repeating the words to "Choose the Right" and "God Be With You Till' We Meet Again" to myself all day and at night when I can't sleep.
Prayer is all the more sacred to me and I now find myself praying at least once an hour. I am not trying to sound "holier than thou" by writing this but I think that I really need to bear my testimony and fast Sunday is a ways away.
Reading conference talks has been one of the only ways that I have been able to understand what is going on and why things are unfolding like they are. I gained a strong testimony of the growth that we receive from trials when my step-dad and grandfather died just before Ryker was born. I am so grateful for those precious times.
I write this blog for Ryker, so that he can know what events were important when he was small and so he can gain a heritage. I wanted to share a little bit so that I don't forget these times and the immense growth that comes with trial.
"There comes a time in everyone’s life when he or she must turn to our Heavenly Father for help and have faith in His eternal wisdom. During times of trial and repentance, we feel only the pain. But after the pain has gone, we begin to understand."
Although ultimately the trials I am going through are going to be resolved by other people's decisions, I am learning to have faith in His plan. I can't control anything or anyone, but I find peace in knowing that it will all be okay in one way or another.
I just want my family that reads this to know how much I truly love everyone. I have gotten so much closer to them already and know that this will continue. I want my son to know (when he can read :) that I believe in my Heavenly Father and His eternal plan and that happiness comes from choosing the right.
I hope that I can come out of this time a stronger person with stronger faith.

9 Months

2009-08-11T19:09:00.001-07:00

We went in for our little guy's 9 month check up and found out...he really is a little guy!

He is tipping the scales at 15.44 pounds, just .6 pounds more than his 6 month check up. So as if parenting isn't already full of worries, I now have to worry that there is something wrong because he is now in the ZERO percentile. His acid reflux and the hard month we just had with that is probably to blame. He is perfectly healthy and super active, so the Dr. just wants a weight check in a month. Until then, it's nothing but junk junk, junk! Just kidding- I don't need him even more wired!

As far as milestones go, he is now standing on his own for about 10 seconds, babbles constantly, finds hidden toys, throws mini-tantrums which are easily resolved, sleeps for 9 hour stretches and 12-13 hours at night :), giggles constantly, loves his daddy more than anything and is becoming quite the lady killer with those baby blues (Mommy just melts when he smiles or giggles).

Come out come out where ever you are!

BIG Update

2009-08-11T19:03:00.001-07:00

So, since our last update (which I didn't get actually posted until today...) we have had BIG changes. This:

is now our house...

that's right, pitching a tent and moving in...NOT! (Me, really camp? NO!)

We are going to build a house in the spring on a one acre lot in Providence (I will be home, YAY!) For those of you who know Providence at all, this is about 3 1/2 blocks north of the Elementary School. We are SO excited but due to stupid paper work and deciding on a house plan, we won't even start construction until Spring :( but the end is in sight! We are beyond excited and can't wait to spend the next 50 years or so right there!

PS: Thanks for those of you who suggested we buy a starter- this is going to be more affordable for us (just trust me :) and also, save us from moving to timbucktoo! We are so excited to be close to family.

2 Years

2009-08-05T07:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our anniversary. We have been married for 2 whole years! It seems like just yesterday and forever sometimes. I am so proud of us and how far we have come. I am excited for the future and so happy to have our little man to complete our family.

For our anniversary we went to look at houses. We are still in love with the house in Dayton. Even more now that we have looked inside and seen the space and other goodies like a deck, SEVEN barns and the large bedrooms and bathrooms. It would be so great but we just haven't quite committed to moving that far away from everyone we love.

For our anniversary, I got a vacuum (yay! I really am excited) and I got both of us a trip to see Gary Allan in September! We went to Chilli's and my mom watched Ryker. It was a nice, relaxing, fun day with my boys!

Ropes Course and Other Stuff

2009-08-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

Last week Dustin's family had a fun day where we went to the USU ropes course. The activities included:

Blind Man's Tag

Teeter-Totter Balance

Spider Web Shuttle

Wobbly Log

50 foot Rock Wall

Zip Line!

I ate lots of candy with Grandma!

It was the most fun I have had in a long long time. The best thing was, all the cousins were there- well, the out of state ones. Treisha's kids loved Ryker and he LOVED them! We ate Mandarin Garden and homemade sweet pork burritos and zucchini bread. Good thing we got a great workout in!

Saturday we went down to SLC to visit with Dustin's Aunt Lee...she has an aggressive form of cancer but is SO upbeat and optimistic. I just loved her and she loved Ryker. (Doesn't everyone :) I am going to get a picture of the view from Aunt Fran's penthouse apartment. It is right behind the conference center and the temple is right there- GORGEOUS!

Lee and Ryker

Are you talking to ME? Grandma Zoe and Ryker

Kent and Lori

The in-laws :) Scott and Cindy

Love this picture- Cousins Tandie and Tawnee with Grandpa Dar...what is he doing?!?!

We also got to stay at my sister-in-law Kristi's while the boys went on a camping trip for Colby's birthday. Nikelle just loves Ryker and trys to help out by picking him up. He goes limp and gets this "whatever" look on his face. SO CUTE!

They don't look ANYTHING alike....

Little man in a big chair

We have had a fun week and this week is going to be crazy. Our anniversary is tomorrow and we're going to look at houses (YAY!) Thanks for your input- we are going to probably buy instead of build now, thank goodness! Building with another company other than my brother-in-law with Highcountry Homebuilders is not really an option, but those neighborhood building things sound great!

We also are going to stay over at my Grandmas for 2 days with Uncle Brad so that she can get a much deserved vacation. As for vacations, Grandma Shanna is in ALASKA...jealous.

House, House, House

2009-07-24T21:02:00.001-07:00

It seems like all we are doing lately is talking about houses, looking at houses online or calling our realtor or bank! We are a little antsy because, well, I live in a cracker box! So...I have put up a poll over on the right side- vote if you will so that I can see what others think about buying a house in this economy.
Dustin now is thinking about building with his brother as our contractor. My problem is- I don't want to build just to have it be too small for when we have another child and then build again! Also, he wants horses but we can't afford a huge lot and a new house! And, we can get more for our money by buying an 1990's house...I am so in love with the house in Dayton that I posted a while ago, but now Dustin thinks it's too far away...Men- always changing their minds (isn't is really supposed to be us women that do that?!?!)
For gosh sakes...if I make it through this decision without going crazy it will be a miracle. I seriously don't get to sleep until 1am because I worry and contemplate EVERYTHING!

"The Club"

2009-07-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

Ryker and I have joined "the club"....the all-nighter club! Ryker has slept through the night for 5 straight nights! (I know, finally after 8 months!) He puts himself to sleep at 8, wakes up once and cries for like 2 minutes, but then it's quiet until 6! I get a full 8 hours of sleep and then he comes into my bed until 9...I think I have died and gone to heaven.
The reason for all this? ZANTAC...I love you Zantac! After adding this to his medicine regiman he is a different sleeper! I am also a much happier mommy :)
I just had to update and brag a bit about my little man.
In other news, I now have a new toy that I need...a Dyson PINK vacuum (how fun would cleaning be when you are using a pink vacuum?!?!) I am on strike from vacuuming until I get a new one...the other night I cleaned the front room and Ryker came right after me, picking up stuff and putting it in his mouth. Why bother? My current vacuum sucks (well, it really doesnt- that's the problem!)
Dustin inherited a truck- a '65 Ford! :) After a little work, it runs like a champ. Sorry again for the lack of pictures but I have misplaced my camera charger (me? Misplace something? How odd!)
Today and this weekend we are: possibly going to look at houses and/or talk to a loan person, go to the Thalman reunion, going to the doctor with Grandma Joyce (we are praying she hasn't broken her hip), getting Ryker a haircut (mullet mania going on!), going to Brock's wedding, having lunch with my Dad's family, being set apart as compassionate service committee member in church and probably having lunch with Dustin's family on Sunday (wow!)

Crystal Hot Springs and a Calling

2009-07-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Since everyone and their dog is at the Logan pool on a Saturday, we thought we'd go to Crystal Hot Springs this weekend. Well, let's just say it's a little- no a lot- ghetto! No grass, see through bikinis and ladies who obviously did not look in the mirror after or before putting on a tiny two piece! I totally could have gotten away with wearing my bikini- and looked like a super model.
Anyways, we made the best of it and the kids had a ton of fun! We went down the slide a couple of times and I took my daredevil of an 8 month old. He LOVED it, squealing all the way down and only disliking the water in his face. I also took my niece Shaylee down once and of course we had to be going mach 90 around a turn and totally biffed it- Sorry Shay!

Thanks for the pictures Lisa (please excuse the hair, I had too much fun on the slide!)

Ryker got to practice his swimming for a bit then totally crashed for Grandma Cindy. Why is it that kids fight their parents so much when it comes to sleep and well, everything- but Grandma gets him to sleep easy peasy?!

So that was our Saturday. Sunday, Ryker and I went to church and he was such a whiner all day! I took him out of sacrament and we were going to leave because Dustin was patiently waiting at home for us. Well, we couldn't leave because his little toy duck had rolled all the way up to the pulpit and I couldn't get it when we left...so after waiting for all of sacrament I went to retrieve it and was then called into the bishop's office. I have been called to the compassionate service committee. I think it is perfect because I love that type of stuff and also because I can not feel too guilty about missing church to be with Dustin (we're still working on this difference...faith and patience I guess?) So I am super excited and have my first "duty" today- organizing and taking a cake to a luncheon for a viewing.

Once again...

2009-07-10T20:36:00.000-07:00

Anyone tired of hearing about acid reflux? Because I sure hate this evil little monster that won't let my son just be!!! Well, things are good but since we know that it is acid reflux that is disrupting Ryker's sleep (causing not just stress on my part but real pain for him) we have up-ed the ante (I am so sure I spelled that wrong!)

He is now taking:5 ml once a day

2 times a day

With a smidge of this as needed

The nurse at the pediatrician's office said "you're giving him HOW MUCH?!?" I know!!! This is just so unexpected, because we were told that most kids just outgrow their dose and the GERD at the same time- so when they sit up and are on solids there is usually no need for medication.

It's okay though- I am just glad that there is something to help my little guy. His painful cry is so heartbreaking! To think that in the past little babies were diagnosed as collicy when in fact they were in so much pain is so sad! Tonight is the first night with the Zantac, so hopefully it helps him!

First Masterpiece

2009-07-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

Made this little diddy today...

First use of my deep dish baker...in the microwave (okay, my grandparent's microwave because mine is mini)...and it was YUMMY! (Notice the missing leg? I tore right into it!)

Did I mention I love this new toy? Next up, enchilada casserole in the grandparent's microwave :)

Swimming Lessons

2009-07-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

Ryker loved swimming lessons. A half hour was just perfect for him to enjoy all the little games and then take a long nap after all that hard work. We learned to:

Kick our legs

"Swim" to a toy

Go under water (LOVES it!)

(I just love the look on my face...not! Crazy mom drowning baby?)

"Jump" off the side and swim back

Pancake rolls from front to back

Back float (not a big fan)

Notice the crossed feet- he even did this in the womb! (maybe brought back memories of being in water for 9 months?)

Tigger hop in shallow water

Wear a lifejacket (I could barely find him in it- the runt!)

Most of all- to have fun in the water

His favorite part was singing "the wheels on the bus" and doing all the actions

I am so glad that I am sharing this love of mine with Ryker. I learned to swim early and have always loved the water. I would highly suggest it to everyone else (I think they run through August).

Tuckered out, cuddling with Grandma

New Member

2009-07-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Welcome the newest member of our family...

The Pampered Chef Deep Covered Baker

I did a whole PC show just to get this one item and I am so glad I did!

I am seriously more excited than I have been in a while (see what kitchenware does to a married gal?!?!) I have found like 100 recipes that I HAVE TO TRY. A whole chicken, in 30 minutes, in the microwave. And pretty much anything else that is cooked can go IN. THE. MICROWAVE!! (CAKE, cassarole...)

So...you may not see me for quite sometime...I'll be in my tiny kitchen but this time with a big grin. Anyone hungry?

Fun on the 4th!

2009-07-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

First of all, has this summer flown by or what?!?! I am so enjoying it but everyday gets closer and closer to me going back to school :(

Boy did we enjoy the 4th of July! We went to the Hyrum parade. I finally broke down and put real shoes on my baby. I don't usually for 3 reasons: 1)They make him look big and I hate it! 2) He can't crawl and stand well in them yet 3) We lose them because his feet are so long and skinny. But here are his cute scoots!

After the parade, we went to the Nielsen's and had dinner and played outside. Can you tell he likes being outdoors? He is his father's child :)Ryker also took his first 4-wheeler ride. He wasn't quite sure, I think Dad is too big of a daredevil :)

He also learned a new trick. Up, up, up he goes. He steps on your ear to try to get higher. What a monkey! On Sunday we headed out with Colby, Kristi and Kel up to Monte Cristo. We went to the family property and ate lunch by the lake. We went to another spot and the guys fished, the kids napped and the Mommys took the 22 to shoot praire dogs! It was my first time shooting at a moving target. SO FUN! I hate guns, but I am starting to think they are okay...

We then went back to the property and the boys went coyote hunting and became mosquito food while we played in the car. All in all a VERY fun day!

Today we are regrouping, getting the house put back together and catching up on sleep. Hope everyone had a fun, safe 4th!

A Turn Around

2009-07-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to update on Ryker's sleeping status...
He is a completely different baby! I think that the reason for the night owl behavior was a mix of acid reflux and just wanting Mommy :)
We have changed his medicine dose again and I will call the doctor today to change it so that we won't have to give him anything in the middle of the night. We also started letting him cry :(
It was really not bad at all. The first night he would fuss for about a minute, every 15 minutes for 3 hours, but no real crying. The second night he slept until 4:30- I gave him his medicine and he fussed for a minute then slept till 6. Last night I kind of messed him up because we went on a fun little trip. He only woke up once to eat at 2:30 then right back to sleep...So, all in all it is 1 million times better than it was and as I type, he is napping and has been for an hour and a half (unheard of in our 30 minute cat napper :) Thanks for all the support, we are going to be alright!

Trouble Yet Again

2009-07-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

Everyone who reads my blog knows what a terrible sleeper Ryker is. I have tried and tried and TRIED to fix this. His naps are very rigid- I make him go to sleep at the same time in the same way EVERYDAY. He goes to bed at 8 o'clock sharp EVERYNIGHT with the same routine EVERYNIGHT. Consistency is supposed to be the key, right? WRONG! He also puts himself to sleep at night and I don't pick him up from his crib at night- the 2 things "they" say are supposed to lead to good sleep habits. It has just gotten worse and worse the past month.
We doubled his acid reflux medicine dose, he gets ibuprofen, baby orajel and teething tablets everynight (hopefully you can't overdose him on this stuff!) Even with this, he is staying up from 1-3 hours everynight.
Talked to the doctor today and he said to increase his acid reflux medicine and if that doesn't help then all we can do is let him cry himself back to sleep in the middle of the night and hope that gets us some relief...
So I am left frustrated and completely exhausted. I haven't had a good nights sleep since November 4th...8 months.
If you haven't had a child that doesn't sleep, you really don't know how hard it is to live like this. We are completely exhausted and can't enjoy life like we would like to. I have a suprise for Dustin for our anniversary and we are supposed to go out of town for the night in September, but I am going to have to sell our tickets if this doesn't get better. Things are just plain hard. Endure to the end is taking on a whole new meaning for me because there is no hope in sight...I had a dream last night that I was comforting an 18 year old Ryker in the middle of the night- no joke!
Well, that is what is going on in our lives right now- so not fun and very very hard to find the silver lining. I know I shouldn't whine when there are sick kids out there, but in a way I feel like he is sick because something is so wrong with him. Dustin says I will miss this- yeah right! After 8 months, I have had enough and there is NO WAY I will miss this!

Camping Fishy

2009-06-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

Ryker had two new experiences this weekend. We went camping up Left Hand for the first time and he started swimming lessons and had his first dip in the pool today. He LOVED them both!

Camping was fun but it rained a lot. I only have one picture, it's of him playing on the stairs because it wasn't the best lighting in the trailer :)

I was very nervous because he had woken up screaming the past 3 nights and I finally took him to the doctor and he doubled his acid reflux medicine. I thought we'd be done with that soon but doesn't look like it...Anyways, he slept really good in the trailer! He napped better than he does at home :)

We had a great Father's day with Dustin's dad. The guys fished and we played. We rode our bikes all the way down and back up Left Hand- almost 6 miles. Almost Died...bad idea :)

About Father's Day- I am so grateful for Dustin, he has been up right along side me every night since Ryker was born. He is doing everything possible to make our lives great- even selling his 2nd love, his Camaro. This is the 2nd Camaro he has sold to help us get into a house, what a great guy! We got an offer even though it wasn't for sale...if only that could happen with the truck!

Swimming lessons were so fun! Ryker was smiling ear to ear. He loved playing "the wheels on the bus" and he even put his face in the water by himself and came up smiling. I am glad he is in these, not only for the swimming but the interaction with me, the kids and the teacher. He is so cute all decked out...

Proof that he loves the water, we feed him in the tub every night because that is the place is the happiest and the only way that we can get him to sit still :)

Getting ready for lessons this morning, I let Ryker play in his diaper bag. This is what he does...MESS! He is too smart- he knows how to open his puffy treats and he spread them all out...how can you even see the mess when there is that cute boy right in the middle?!?

Lil' Buckaroo

2009-06-15T09:08:00.000-07:00

Here's my little buckaroo at his first rodeo! Complete with his cute ropin' hoodie and camo cowboy boots...which by the way we only own one of :(

Mommy and Ryker...Not the cutest picture but you can see his boots and my haircut. Noone really notices but it really is about 4 inches shorter! I love it!

We also played in the grass yesterday. Ryker HATES grass, especially on his hands. He would bury his feet in it but have a melt-down when it touched his hands. He was trying to crawl to me and wouldn't put his hands down in the grass. So cute!

Speaking of melt-downs, Ryker has been in such a bad mood lately. I think that it is his teeth that are bothering him but when they can't tell you what's wrong it's hard. I hope that this passes soon because I am not very patient :)

Swimming

2009-06-12T14:49:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for summer...especially since today is actually a nice day!

We are going to start swimming lessons on the 22nd and I really can't wait. I know, I know...he can't swim, but getting him used to the water and able to at least paddle is the first step and I believe the earlier the better. I decided that even if he keeps himself up for 2 seconds, the money is worth it if he ever fell in somewhere- those 2 seconds could matter.

ANYWAYS, just in time for swimming lessons I WON A SWIMMING SUIT, well one for Ryker. I am the one who really needs one, but hey.

This is his suit we should be receiving soon...

It is a black rash guard onesie that I won at fabulousfunfinds.com from Haiden Surf. So exciting- it's like a $40 swimsuit!

Update on my camera battery- if you ask, Best Buy gives you a discount. I got $10 off just because I said I couldn't buy it now and I would have to come back! YAY- that's like 25% off! So...pictures to come!

I also bought myself a swimsuit today, but it was missing the strap, so I got it for a steal. I am hoping I can hand sew well enough to just attach one because I love the suit, the price and the print. We'll see...

We are going to the rodeo tonight. It will be a late night for my buckaroo, but I guess once in a while won't hurt.

Random Happenings...

2009-06-06T19:47:00.001-07:00

So, my camera battery is permanently dead and until I get a new one you will have to deal with no pictures :)
We had a really fun week! On Tuesday we went to the Hogle Zoo with Kristi, Kell, Jeri, Kaiya, Aspen and Baby Emily. We had so much fun! Ryker is still a little bit too young to get the concept but he did see a few animals and get excited. He's definately his mother's child- loves people watching!
Today we went to the Providence monument dedication for their 150 year anniversary. We met Boyd K. Packer. I shook his hand and he took Ryker's hand and said "but he won't remember this." Well I will! It was great to be in the presence of such a great man. I have been so excited all week to meet him...he's my favorite apostle (doesn't everyone have a fav?)
After that fun time, we went to a BBQ with Dustin's family. His cute cousin Traci and her cute boys are up from Arizona so she planned it all. It was so great seeing everyone because it's usually only around the holidays that we all get together. We then played Milk Carton Baseball- so fun! You just cut the bottoms off of Clorox bottles (they work better and are sturdier) and then you have to catch AND throw with just the cartons. It was so funny- you have to put them on your head until the ball is pitched. All the uncles with them on their heads was a priceless picture (did I mention that I am SO mad that my camera is dead?!?)
Ryker turned 7 months old on Friday...time flies and I cannot believe that it's less than a half year until he's one! Love that little man...he sure gets around, crawling and pulling himself up. He's just starting to walk around the furniture and stood by himself for a few seconds today! YAY and UH-OH!
It has been a fun summer already and I can't wait for more good times!

Question for you...

2009-06-04T20:21:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
I need your advice. Ryker and I are enrolled in a Mommy and Me swim class at the Logan Pool. Just wondering if anyone else has taken this course or any other swimming class for babies. I just don't want to waste my time or money and don't know if he'll learn anything. I just love the water and want him to start early!
Let me know- Thanks!
Ashley

Family Pictures

2009-05-30T08:18:00.001-07:00

Long time no post! We have been busy! We're gearing up for summer as well as getting my AVON business off the ground. We have been busy riding bikes, going to the park, getting family pictures and other fun fun stuff!
Here are some of our pictures. My friend Eric took them- check out his website- truly the most affordable photographer in town and he does a great job!
Droll Photography

As you can see, our boy is getting BIG! He is pulling himself up like crazy, crawling really fast and is into all sorts of mischief! He has 6 teeth and is loving eating new foods!

We are still trying to sell our truck to buy a house. We found THE ONE, but it will most likely be gone by the time we get financing (sigh). So I am not getting my hopes up yet!

I am doing very well with AVON and love it! It is so easy to do with Ryker and I love that I can stay home! I'm getting ready to distribute 120 catalogs- that's my goal...kind of fun to have big goals though!

Anyways, that is what we are doing in a nutshell...hope you like the pictures, I sure do!

Albino allergic to sunscreen...

2009-05-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Ryker is teething BIG TIME! He has one coming in on the bottom AND one on the top that I just discovered. No wonder he has been so ornery...poor little guy! He also has a fever, cough and his ears are driving him crazy- I don't think there is anything worse than a baby who doesn't feel good! At least he's still sleeping well though :)

I mentioned that I wanted pictures of him pulling himself up on stuff and I got one of him next to his horsey...before I took out the camera he was cheesing it so big! Okay...looking for the camera cord, Dustin must have stashed it somewhere so I'll post that later :)

Dustin still hasn't got a turkey. I keep saying "I can't wait till this hunt is over". But then it'll be fishing or another hunt-he's like Ryker, can't keep still for even 5 seconds!

Not much else going on in our lives other than a messy house because of a needy baby and working with my mom a few days a week. I do not know how working moms do it cuz instead of cleaning I just want to PLAY in this wonderful weather!

Speaking of the sun, we had our first long experience in the sun yesterday at my cousin's wedding and it was a disaster! Ryker was so hot and with his albino skin I knew he needed sunscreen...well, he's ALLERGIC to sunscreen and broke out in hives THEN it got in his eyes and they got red and puffy. SO SAD! What am I going to do with Casper? I really want to be at the pool like everyday....He also doesn't like grass yet. Let's just say it's a little hard for him to get used to stuff but that may be good when he's older so he doesn't just try everything and get hurt!

I am wondering what I got myself into with AVON. I really do like it but am finding that is harder than I thought it would be to approach people like neighbors. We'll see how it goes, if it doesn't work then oh well, but I have got a few orders already YAY!

Pull-Ups

2009-05-12T20:17:00.000-07:00

Ryker is now pulling himself up on furniture and his crib rails- all I can say is "here comes trouble!"
I wish I had a picture but Dustin had my camera "turkey hunting". I put that in quotations because-well-they really suck at hunting and haven't killed one animal this year- PETA would be so proud! Haha, just kidding, love you honey!
I am now working a whopping 8 hours a week at my mom's work and although a short break is nice, I miss Ryker like crazy! I want and have a need to be with him. After I got home, he seriously clung to me. He was like one of those baby monkeys with a death grip on my shirt- SO CUTE!
I am also going to start selling AVON for something to do this summer- if you want anything I'll be up and running soon- they seriously have such great products and most importantly- they are affordable.
I'll just keep talking about myself since I am on a roll- I have also made a cute toy for Ryker for church and when it's completely finished, I'll post a picture. It's a little car garage with Lightening McQueen and Mater- all made of felt so it won't disrupt sacrament!
I think that is all that is going on
PS Welcome back Grandma Louise!

Mom(s)

2009-05-10T19:58:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
I had a blast on my first mother's day! Dustin gave me a spa package that I am chomping at the bit to go take advantage of...speaking of which, I am going to cut my hair! It's been a long time since it has been above my shoulders but I think summer and the amount of shedding I have been doing lately make it necessary!
I wanted to post a little tribute to each of my 3 moms and then about my experience as a mom so far...My Mom- Misty
I love you mom! You are such an inspiration and watching your strength since Steve's death and us helping each other through some hard times has made me love you and appreciate you even more. Thank you for all you do for us and especially for the wonderful Grandma you are to Ryker. Love you!

Grandma Joyce- Wonderful Woman who Raised me
I don't think words can express how much I love and appreciate you for all that you do and have done for me. You didn't really need to take me in- (she is my step-grandma and when she started raising me, my mom and her son had already divorced-what a saint!)- but you did and I am so glad that I was raised by such a spiritual, wonderful woman.

Dustin's Mom- Cindy
I have had so much fun with you and really love the times that we have together. You're so great to always want to help with Ryker and really have raised your sons to be great men! You are a very strong person and such a fun Grandma.

This picture makes me look fat and just blah- but I had just given birth, so just ignore my flaws.
I have had so many ups and downs of motherhood so far- I will not lie, it is HARD! Good news- it's getting easier, well at least more rewarding. Looking back I really did like him as a newborn but he intimidated me- "why is he crying?!? why won't he sleep?!? why am I sad?!?" All went through my head a million times a day. A mix of him adjusting to the world and wacky hormones caused these feelings...
Now, I look back and really want to have him small for like an hour, just to cuddle. I see him growing WAY too fast and feel like soon he won't need me. He still wants to be held quite a bit and sometimes when I'm in the middle of something I get bugged, but now I realize that he won't always want me to hold him and I better milk it for all it's worth now.
He is such a fun, happy, smart boy and he just gets more fun, happier and smarter everyday. I sometimes miss him when he's taking a nap and today when I got a little break, it made me want to just squeeze the guts out of him when I got home.
Didn't know I would ever feel this way, but I LOVE BEING A MOMMY!
Ashley

6 Months

2009-05-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

Ryker is a half year old already! Time is FLYING! Notice the picture- he would NOT sit still!
We went to the doctor and he is only in the 8th percentile for weight and about 35th for height. Although he is a little squirt, he is way ahead of the game developmentally. He started really crawling about a week ago and everyday he gets more and more coordinated. The doctor also said the way that he could get from sitting to crawling and back and holding his sippy cup are things that are way advanced for his age! He's just too smart (hey, I'm his mommy, he's the smartest baby ever!)
We also went to the park for the first time yesterday. We just couldn't resist as it was somewhat warm (okay, freezing but it's supposed to be spring!)

He didn't know about the swing- maybe because it was too cold.
I love this picture of us- it's a rare occasion that I'm on the other end of the camera- thanks Kristi!
Dustin took 3 certification tests for mechanic stuff last night. He said he thinks he did well. We are so proud of him and I am so glad he works so hard so I can stay home with Ryker!
My grandma broke her kneecap- as if we need one more thing to deal with right now. We hope all goes well with surgery Tuesday!
Everyone is leaving to go see Trace Adkins- I really hope that one day Ryker will be a little more independent so I can get a break- it happens, right?!?!
Hope everyone enjoys their Mother's Day!
Ashley, Dustin and Ryker

Just For Fun

2009-05-06T12:41:00.001-07:00

My mom forwarded this to me...How cute are these?!?!

LOVE IT!

So true...
Future Ryker

For Nikelle!!!

What's in a Name?

2009-04-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

There are 485,494 people in the U.S. with the first name Ashley.
Statistically the 114th most popular first name.
95.58 percent of people with the first name Ashley are female.
There are 63 people in the U.S. named Ashley Nielsen.

There are 39,820 people in the U.S. with the last name Nielsen.
Statistically the 888th most popular last name.

There are 157,747 people in the U.S. with the first name Dustin.
Statistically the 387th most popular first name.
More than 99.9 percent of people with the first name Dustin are male.
There are 21 people in the U.S. named Dustin Nielsen.

There are fewer than 1,532 people in the U.S. with the first name Ryker.
There are 1 or fewer people in the U.S. named Ryker Nielsen.

What's funny is I think there were 3 girls in my high school named Ashley Nielsen. Also, I found out from the pharmacist that there are 2 Ryker Nielsens in the valley- what are the odds.
Want to find out how popular your name is? Go to: howmanyofme.com

Pay It Forward

2009-04-28T17:24:00.000-07:00

This is how it works.....
The first 3 people to leave a comment on this post will receive a hand made gift from me sometime during this year.
When and what will be a surprise.
BUT, in order for you to play along, you have to post this on your blog. (That means that sometime during this year you will send a gift to 3 people as well.) Get it?
So, the first 3 people to comment on this post will be the lucky ones!
Good Luck!!!
Ashley

Random Babbling

2009-04-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

I figure I better get at least one post a week done. We've been pretty busy this week- but nothing fun has happened!
It is finals week and I am pretty stressed. I have 10 essays to turn in tomorrow and a final exam and then I am FREE! Well, til September at least :)
Ryker is changing a lot. We have stopped swaddling and it is taking some getting used to for him. He is just so active that he thinks that since he can move now, bed time is play time :) Speaking of moving, he is CRAWLING! Well, taking a few little "crawls" forward. He's getting the hang of it now, but at first he would get up on his tippy toes or leap frog forward. I LOVE IT! But, now I am in for it!
We got a bath seat for him and he acts like such a big boy! He's growing like a weed and I go to put an outfit on and it is WAY too small...where did time go?
Ryker also has a little cold, this weather is really not fun!
Here is a picture to break up the monotony of me babbling:

Dustin and his brother Colby practicing with the blowdart gun.What are they going to shoot? Squirrells, or so they say :) I took the picture because man, they look and act EXACTALLY the same!

The snakes are GONE! YAY! My house still faintly smells of liquid ginger which they spray to kill the snakes (weird, I know). We are getting a new neighbor upstairs, my cousin is moving in in the next couple of weeks.
Ryker took his first long ride down to Riverton yesterday. We went to see my....umm we'll just say we're related...Michelle and Bendy. They adopted Skylar and we are so happy to have him in our family. I didn't get a picture, dangit, but he's such a cute kid!
Ryker did well with the ride but man was he sick of the car! 5 hours almost straight is not fun for anyone!
Speaking of cars, funny story...I went outside of my grandparent's house the other day and this is what I saw:Which one is my car? My cousin got the EXACT same car as me! (Mine's the closer one incase you're wondering :)

This became quite a long post, but I just want to capture everything!
Ashley

Horsies!!!

2009-04-19T17:13:00.001-07:00

We are over at Scott and Cindy's and Ryker is loving being outside!

Can you tell?

He also had his first experience with the horsies---

Are we ready?

I want to love you...

And kiss you...

What fun...I hope this weather continues!

Ashley, Dustin and Ryker

Our Old Man

2009-04-14T19:37:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
Not sure if anyone reads this but I need to blog to keep the memories for me, so here goes...
Ryker has been really silly lately. He loves to make noises with his tounge, hum very loudly while he is going to sleep and especially make this face:

He looks like such an old man without teeth!So dang cute!

One word- mischief!

He is teething though and is very ornery...I hate ornery! Hopefully that passes soon.
Everyday he is getting better and better at getting up on those little legs. He wants to crawl so so bad and is always climbing all over Dustin.
On another note- we still have snakes- yes snakes as in plural. How many you ask? Over 50. 5-0! There have been like 10 in the house and I am so paranoid. I dropped a piece of spaghetti on my foot tonight and nearly fainted because I thought it was another one. I also slept in my ugg boots last night because Ryker was getting up every 2 minutes for the first half of the night and I was so terrified of stepping on a snake- I'm losing it! We are exterminating but they are everywhere this year and our neighbors are having problems too. Until the day there are no more, we are living at Grandma's during the day so Ryker can play on the floor.
That's what is going on in our house right now- also hating this weather.
Ashley, Dustin and Ryker

Sitting Up!

2009-04-11T14:34:00.000-07:00

It's official, Ryker is sitting up all by himself. Still a little wobbly but he's sitting next to me and everytime he starts to tip he sits himself back up. What a big boy and what fun times we have ahead of us!

He is also turning in circles like crazy and moves himself backwards. Frustration sets in once he realizes "hey! I'm farther away from those toys!"

5 Months

2009-04-09T18:24:00.000-07:00

At 5 months, we:

Laugh a lot and have so much fun!

Move all around and try to crawl
Eat and eat and eat
Still snuggle to go to sleep

Oh how I am going to miss these days. He is so cute and fun!

Food Storage and GC

2009-04-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
Since it's General Conference time, i've got to get organized and get my food storage built up.
Check out shelf reliance for help- it's really great and so easy!
Enjoy conference!
Ashley

Cute Boy

2009-04-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
I just had to share these cute pictures of my cute boy with you. He is getting so big and is getting lots of hair (well in my opinion). It sticks up all over the place but it's so light you can't really see it.

He is going to be crawling soon. He scoots and gets up on his knees and turns in circles.
He is sleeping better and just has his nights. His naps have settled into a routine so that is so nice!
I didn't get the job that I applied for, but that's okay. I am pretty much done with school and I just have to keep going to one class per week for another month. I can't wait till I'm done and I get to be just a mom!
Hope everyone is doing well and hopefully spring is on its way!
Dustin, Ashley and Ryker

Been Awhile...

2009-03-30T12:47:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone,
We have been crazy busy, but just so I remember what has been happening in our lives lately here we go...

Ryker:
Has been sleeping better...hopefully that continues!
Is becoming mobile- rolls over, turns in circles, scoots frontwards and backwards and is getting up on his knees...hopefully this doesn't continue as I can't contain his energy right now!
Jumps and jumps and jumps in his horsey
Loves his daddy even more, but is still a momma's boy

Ashley:
Was in a fashion show and yes, I did make a fool of myself
Applied for a job with Up to 3 where I worked over the summer. I would be working mostly from home so this would be perfect, we find out today if I got it!
Is so sick of school she could scream, but I know I will make it!

Dustin:
Is still snowmobiling and loving this weather (opposites attract I guess...I hate it!)
Bought a new fly fishing pole and loves it!

So that is what is happening in the Nielsen family in a nutshell....have to share this cute picture and will upload more when I get a second.

Drooly Elmer Fudd?

That's all for now...hopefully spring will come sometime soon!
Ashley, Dustin and Ryker

Random Happenings

2009-03-21T08:18:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone,
So here is a random post. Just had to put all this craziness somewhere for memories...
Last Monday I was pulling out of school and totally backed into a car. Their alarm was SO loud, but the owner was nowhere to be found. I left a note, but the damage wasn't too bad. They just had a scratch on their bumper. This is what mine looks like...a little worse.

Anyways, I have never heard from the owner, so they must not have thought it was too bad. I still feel very bad and wanted to apologize to them in person, not just in a note. What nice people though, I was not looking forward to that bill!

Next Saturday I am going to be in a fashion show at Dillards with my mother in law and Kristi. I am excited because the clothes are SO cute and I am excited to have fun with the family. If you can, come see the cute clothes- Noon at Dillard's next saturday.

Ryker is still teething...so sad! His belly is also not liking the veggies, so we are back on just cereal for a week or so. Too bad because he loves his peas and squash. He has been happy mostly but is not sleeping. I feel like a zombie today. He is doing better putting himself to sleep though and is taking a little bit longer naps. Yipee!

My grandma's nephew died yesterday. He was hit by a car as he was getting out of his truck and it did some severe brain damage. I feel so bad for his family. They are in our prayers.

I think that's it for now...just had to remember these random happenings!
Ashley, Dustin and Ryker

Power Struggle

2009-03-19T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
Ryker has gotten quite the little mind of his own lately. He gets so mad when we don't do things the way he wants. Needless to say, it is wearing us out quite quickly.
Me being the pushover I tend to be, I just can't stand to hear him cry. I called the doctor today about something else, but casually mentioned that naptime, bedtime and sleeping has become a power struggle (have I not posted about this about 1 million times?) They said that he really should be able to put himself to sleep at this age and should only wake up maybe once to eat at night. Not happening---well it was about a month ago but then the attitude started. So....
I'm standing my ground. I will have a child that isn't so needy and that can put himself to sleep. He is crying right now, refusing to take a nap. I feel like the worst mom but seriously, if I don't do something I may rip my hair out!
There is my rant for today...this being a mom stuff isn't for wimps!
Ashley

Whoops!

2009-03-17T13:48:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
Last night after I was done with class I was pulling out of the parking lot and I backed into a car, The alarm started squealing so loud, but since it was parked I had no idea who's it was. I felt like such an idiot because one of my classmates and a professor came over to see what happened.
I left a note explaining what happened with my name and number, but I haven't gotten a phone call yet. There was just a few scratches on their bumper. It cracked mine in two places but isn't too bad. Needless to say, I am very anxious.
My header picture is new. We went to White's Ranch, a private hunting and fishing club in Paradise, for Dustin's work party on Sunday. We had a really yummy dinner and then took a picture in front of this big bull. It is the second largest ever killed in the world!
In other news, Ryker is now rolling from both back-belly and belly-back. He also is eating peas and loves them. I wanted a funny face when he ate them for the first time, but he just gobbled them. He does not like juice though, which is probably a good thing.
I also started a new blog for all my favorite things. Click on the link to the right to check it out!
Hope everyone is enjoying the wonderful weather. Ryker and I finally got to spend some time outside!
Ashley, Dustin and Ryker

Best Day!

2009-03-10T14:32:00.000-07:00

The other day was so great! I went to the mall with Kristi and found some cute jeans for $15. I picked up size 5 and 3/4. They were both too big so I tried on 1/2s just for fun. They were also too big so miss Ashley, who was in size 7 when Ryker was born is in a size 0! I was so excited...haven't been that small since I met Dustin.
In other news, Ryker has a tooth! It just cut through the gum- no wonder he didn't nap on Wednesday- poor kid was teething! He is also obsessed with smacking his lips together. So cute! He is also sitting up better everyday.

Spring Break!

2009-03-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
It's Spring Break and I kicked it off by...sleeping in. Ryker slept till 9, which is unheard of for my early riser...usually it is 6:30. So what's on the agenda this week? NOTHING! I will probably be bored but I'm going to try to get my house all cleaned and organized.
In other news, Ryker is 4 months old! He is so huge. I packed up all the clothes that are too small and looking at those premie clothes amazed me. He was that small? I don't remember! He is so curious. Hard to control him at meal time cuz he just wants to look around. He is eating cereal and gets so mad when its gone. He also gets mad when we eat without him.

Notice the curiousity...can't keep anything out of his hands :)

He also rolled over today. He has done this before but now he actually knows what he is doing. He also sits up, sometimes he falls over but for the most part he can sit by himself. I took him to the store and put him in the cart today. He sat like a big boy even though his legs don't even come out of the leg holes in the cart :)

That's all that is going on right now...enjoying the extremely snowy spring break...the irony.
Ashley, Dustin and Ryker

Working Mom

2009-03-02T07:17:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,
For the first time I had a feel of what it would be like to work and be a mom. I have an internship where I spend time with a sweet lady with Alzheimer's disease. I usually just go for 4 hours on Saturdays but this week I needed to be there for 8.
Kristi, Dustin's brother Colby's wife (they really should have a name for this relationship- is she my sister in law- in law?). Anyways, Kristi and her little girl Nikelle watched Ryker for me. They brought him to me twice to feed him so I did see him throughout the day.
It was so hard to not have him with me all day! I knew he would be fine but I missed him so much! It was also sad that he really didn't seem to miss me that much. He would have only needed to eat once and had I been able to pump, he wouldn't have even needed me ALL DAY! How sad! I like being needed!
Thanks Kristi for having tons of fun with Ryker. They went to Brigham, ate at a restaurant and even gave Ryker his first real meal (popcorn and rice)! Kristi wanted Ryker to sit up because that's his favorite thing to do. They didn't have a baby bouncer or anything so her mom said "I'll show you how we did it before the days of bouncers!"

Here is the result...

A pillow+ a washcloth + a chair= old way of sitting up babies :)
At first he was just sitting there with no toys and Twila said- "give him some toys so it doesn't look like we tied him to a chair and left him there!"
Kel also made sure Ryker was well taken care of. She is 2 and just loves Ryker to death. When we go over to her house the first thing she does is take out his wipes, diaper and changing pad and insists we change his diaper. She always tells me- "he peed!" If he doesn't need it changed, she patiently waits with all the gear until we are ready. What a good little mommy!
On Saturday, she rocked him when he got upset in the store and was sneaky and held his hand when he was sleeping- she loves to do this, although he resists most of the time.
Thanks guys for being his mommy for the day. I hope I don't ever have to leave him for that long again!
Ashley