We Have a Big Girl Room!!

Good Morning!

We hope you all had a great 4th of July. Ours was fairly low-key, with a lazy day at home and then dinner and fireworks down at the Chase home in Blue Springs. The kids enjoyed the fireworks this year, with the favorite being glow worms. I think they liked them because they were cool without being noisy.

We have a lot to update you on, but I will start here:

A couple weeks ago, Kylee announced that she didn't like her crib anymore and wanted a big girl bed. When our little redhead makes a decision, there's no turning back. We had planned to do her "big girl room" as a part of her third birthday in September, but she was ready!! So, we pulled her bed out of the basement (we had some friends from church who passed it down to us, and were lucky enough to have scored a mattress from Great Bend--we love FREE!!!), and Mommy and Kylee painted it purple (the color was Kylee's choice). I got the bed painted while Kylee managed to create a lovely purple mural on the garage floor.

Anyway, then it was time to move the bed upstairs. Brandon began breaking the crib down, and I was hit by some pretty strong emotion as I realized this would be the first time we'd broken the crib down since before Connor was born. I hadn't thought through the fact that with the arrival of the big girl bed, I would need to pack up all of the Pooh nursery decorations and sheets that had graced our babies' rooms for the last 5 and 1/2 years. Ouch. Tears. Stomach lurch. A new phase...meanwhile, I swear I heard my husband singing the Hallelujah chorus under his breath. :)

We went shopping at Wal-Mart for some sheets that night--I refused to put Spiderman sheets on our daughter's big girl bed...Kylee instantly selected Dora sheets. Then this week, we went and picked up her comforter and a Princess pillow to round out the scene. I picked up the letters on her wall on clearance about a year ago at Target, painted them pink, and glued ribbons on to them to hang them from. I had seen the idea in a catalog and thought it was way cute. I have to highlight this because it is rare that I am actually able to effectively duplicate a concept like this at a fraction of the cost (those letters in the catalog with adorable ribbons on them will cost you a fortune, by the way). Usually, my money saving attempts at decoration just end in frustration, so I was pretty happy with how this turned out. We selected a simple flower theme for the room so that she doesn't grow out of it next year when her character tastes change.

I have dreamed of Kylee's big girl room for months as I rocked her to sleep at night, yet somehow, I didn't imagine our little girl growing up so quickly...she looks so small in her twin bed. The smile on her face when she saw her big girl room all put together for the first time was priceless.

Sweet dreams, little princess!!

Celebrating 5 Years...

An update on the Carlson Crew:

The most notable event of the last couple weeks was Connor turning 5 on June 13th!! He had a great time celebrating, and we were able to stretch celebrations with friends and family out so he basically ended up celebrating for a week straight. What a lucky guy!

A couple weekends ago, the kids went and spent some time in Baldwin City with Grandpa and Grandma Lori. The highlights of the weekend included lots of time playing at various parks and a trip to see Thomas the Tank Engine at the Baldwin Railroad. Grandpa and Lori then took us all out for dinner at T-Rex out at the Legends in celebration of our little man's special day. Connor LOVES the T-Rex restaurant, and it was fun to walk around the Legends shopping area on a beautiful summer evening. The kids spent quite a bit of time playing in the fountains in the middle of all the stores, and it was really fun for Brandon and I to sit back and watch them. I think those are some of the most fulfilling moments as parents--getting to sit back and observe your children having fun at something. This is fulfilling for two reasons: 1.) If you're sitting back watching them, this means you've made it to the point where you don't have to hover over all them all the time out of fear that they're going to hurt themselves or destroy something, and 2.) Watching children when they are absorbed in something else brings such joy--the smiles on their faces when the water sprays them, their laughter as they play nicely with each other...bliss.

Last Saturday, some of Connor's friends and family gathered together at Chuck E. Cheese for Connor's official birthday party. He had a great time seeing his friends and playing all the games. It was sensory overload for the grown-ups, but the kids really enjoyed themselves. :)

Brandon and I have spent some time reflecting on the last five years...remembering bringing Connor home from the hospital and then celebrating Brandon's first Father's Day the very next day, watching Connor learn how to navigate the world around him...first days of school....we feel so blessed to have such a special boy in our lives. He has changed so much in the last six months....he is learning new words, recalls information that we've taught him (when we weren't even sure he was listening), and he continues to relate well to other children. He is becoming more independent and has grown 3 inches and gained 5 pounds in the last year. He is a sponge for knowledge and has picked up his Daddy's interest in cars. We've outgrown Bob the Builder and are now onto "bigger boy toys". He loves to ride his bike (a birthday present from Mommy, Daddy, and Kylee) and pedal his new scooter. It is so fun to watch him!

Grandpa and Grandma Carlson came to help us celebrate, so it was fun to have both of them here, too. Grandma stayed for a few days after the party to help around the house while I was busy with work. I am trying to wrap up my Assessment course and am also doing a clinical rotation this week, so I was especially grateful for the help. We were able to take the kids to the wading pool in North Kansas City yesterday, so here are some pics of our first trip there! Connor and Kylee both loved it, so I'm sure that we'll be going back over and over again.

You know, I love my job, but I have to tell you that these last several weeks have taught me that I really enjoy being home, too. I think we all have those days as mothers when we think "Boy, I can't wait until I can get away from these crazy kids!", and while I am grateful for my career, I have noticed that it hurts my heart to be away from home day after day. I am so THANKFUL that my job enables me to keep my foot in the door professionally while still being at home a great deal, and I am THANKFUL that months like this one has been are rare for me. I love being with my children...and sometimes, it's nice to be reminded of that. Being a mother is truly my highest calling and Connor and Kylee are part of the core of my being. Now, don't get me wrong, I still enjoy some good quality "me time", but I treasure each moment with my little ones at home and am grateful that God has enabled me to share in those moments that pass so quickly. I am thankful that my husband works hard and supports me in my desire to be here with our children...I am ready for work to wrap up so that summer can officially begin here at our house!!

With that being said, I must go and finish some grading. :)

Here We Go...

We took Winnie to the vet this morning. She was supposed to have a mass removed from her leg. We had the vet take a look a few months ago. She determined that the mass wasn't cancerous and suggested that we have it removed...to the tune of $400. Needless to say, it has taken us several months to get to a place where we were RELATIVELY comfortable paying for the surgery (we figured it was going to hurt no matter when we did it, so why not?). Couple this with the fact that we noticed the mass was bleeding the other night...but I digress.

Anyway, they did pre-op labs and found that Winnie's blood sugar was off the charts high. So, they diagnosed her with diabetes and said that they weren't going to do the surgery until her sugars were under control. Even though we didn't actually do the surgery, we still got to pay about $200 for insulin, the vet bill, and syringes. Sheesh. Fortunately, if we get things under control, Winnie can still enjoy somewhat of a "normal" life.

The vet tried to console me by telling me that because I'm a nurse, I won't have to bring Winnie into the office as regularly as some other owners would be required to, because I can monitor for signs of hyper or hypoglycemia at home. For that I am grateful.

I was a little surprised when I teared up while talking to the vet. As much as we love to gripe about the responsibilities that having two large dogs brings, I guess I have to admit that they are a part of the family, and that it really does make me sad to think about not having Winnie around. Connor asked about Winnie about a dozen times today while she was gone at the vet. I explained what was happening...and when Brandon got home, Connor informed him that Winnie had "diet peas".

I am going to go and deliver the insulin administration demo to my husband. Who knew that nursing school would come in so handy?

Firsts and Lasts

Hello!

We've had a fun-filled couple weeks around here! Yesterday was an especially big day for us. It was Connor's last day of preschool for the year, and our little girl got her first haircut. :)

Connor's teachers handed out awards to each child in the class. Connor received the "good friend" award, which really warmed our hearts. Of all the traits a child can have, compassion and kindness towards others would be at the top of my list of the most desirable. Mrs. Amy, his teacher, remarked that he truly was a friend to everyone in the class. It's amazing how wonderful our children can be despite us, huh. :) Above is a picture of Connor after receiving his award from his teachers.

It took me about 6 months to get up the nerve to schedule Kylee a haircut, but we finally did it. We took her to see Brooke, a woman that we attend church with, who has two children about the same ages as Connor and Kylee are. Boy, you could tell she knew what she was doing, and she charmed Kylee right into the whole hair cut groove (I am of the opinion that a good stylist that can put children at ease is almost as important as a good nurse midwife or gynecologist in a mother's world). In the end, Kylee got an inch or so trimmed off the back of her hair, and even though it was a small amount of hair, somehow she looks older to me now.

Connor was so inspired that he, too, got up into the chair for a new 'do. Brooke had to repair my latest haircut attempt on our little blonde superhero, and he looked much better when it was all done. It was the first time he sat through a haircut without screaming bloody murder, which made it even more of a banner day in our world. The kids thought it was the best experience ever because they each got to pick out TWO suckers.

I was telling Brandon the other night that I feel like we're entering a new chapter in our lives. Our kids are officially exiting baby and toddler stage, and while some things about it are totally wonderful, some things about it are also hard...realizing that our son has just completed his first year of preschool makes me stop to think about how, from this point forward, our years will be marked by the beginning and end of school instead of by monthly developmental acheivements like crawling, walking, and talking.

Where does the time go?

The Second "Big 30"

My twenties are gone,
It's sad but it's true.
To honor this day,
Here's a rhyme for you.

Today I turn 30,
So what? No big deal.
They say you're only
As old as you feel.

Do I feel older
Than yesterday? No.
Now that I'm 30 -
I'm ready to go!

Reflections on decades,
You won't get from me.
That task is more ambitious
Than I want to be!

After all, it's my birthday,
I just want to relax!
Spend time with loved ones,
Enjoy life, kick back.

Thirty's not bad,
At least not yet.
Feels old, but not quite
Old enough for a 'Vette.

I have to admit,
Some thought I've put in,
To where I'm going
And where I have been.

There are ups and downs,
Without a doubt,
But life can't be better,
Day in and day out.

I am most blessed
By God in this world -
A beautiful wife,
A superhero son, and a dancing princess girl.

Good family, good friends,
Good church and good life
Only add to the joy,
And give it some spice.

Enough introspection,
With that being said.
Now on to more fun -
Let's look ahead!

The kiddos will grow,
And we'll soak up each day,
We'll laugh and we'll cry
And we'll love and we'll pray.

What wonderful times
The future will hold,
We don't know quite yet,
But we'll watch them unfold.

As the next chapter opens
Great new things will be,
So let's get to 'em -
Happy Birthday to me!

BJC
:)

Tea for Two...

I know I just posted yesterday, but I had to share these pictures of our adorable children that I captured today.

It has been a great day!! We stayed in our jammies until noon, and the kids decided to put together their own "tea party" at the kitchen table. The cutest part of this is that I had no part in assembling the "tea" or goodies (Cheez-Its and Scooby Snacks) for the tea party--my only duty was to attend. Here are a couple pictures of the kids and their classy fare.

This afternoon, Kylee offered to fix me dinner. Here she is in her chef garb. It truly did save her life because she was supposed to have been laying down having quiet time at this exact moment. She convinced me to enjoy a plastic grilled cheese and McFlurry with her, effectively delaying naptime.

So precious!!

We're Back!

It's been awhile since I've posted...life has been pretty crazy around here. I have been working many hours up at William Jewell, helping the seniors get prepared for the N-Clex examination that many of them will take later this month or early in June. It has been very stressful trying to balance home and work, and I am so grateful for all of our friends and family who have been so willing to help out as I am away from home more than usual.

Aaron came out a week ago to play with the kids while I worked, and he got to participate in one of Connor's class field trips. The class went and visited the fire station...here are some pictures (I am amazed that in between juggling Kylee and trying to keep up with Connor that he had time to snap these--way to go, Grandpa!). The kids loved having "Carlson Grandpa" (Connor's name for him) here. They also had fun enjoying a picnic in the rain!

My Grandpa paid us a visit last week, too. He was in town to see his lawyer to try to settle his case outside of court. For those of you who don't know, Grandpa has been involved in a lawsuit with a gentleman who purchased his business four years ago, and then decided to stop making payments (enter in the lawsuit). We were so thankful and excited that the case was settled while Grandpa was here, and he is supposed to begin receiving payments again in July after a two-year dry spell and lots of lawyer fees. Thanks to all of you who have offerred your prayers!

William Jewell's graduation is this weekend, and then I will begin gearing up for the summer bunch of students that I will have in Health Assessment on May 18th. Prior to that, we look forward to celebrating Brandon's 30th birthday together on May 11th!!

Grandpa also sent some more pictures of the snowy Easter egg hunt I referrred to in an earlier post, as well as some pics of the kids decorating Easter eggs. Enjoy!

A Snowy Easter

We had a great trip out to Colorado over the Easter weekend. Mother Nature didn't quite get the memo about spring weather (we had snow and highs in the 20's), but that didn't deter us any!

Our trip was a welcome break from the routine around here. Things at work have been busy for both of us--Brandon as he fills last-minute requests within his company and myself as I continue working with senior students as they prepare for a big test that will help determine whether or not they get to graduate in May (no stress there, right?). They will take that test in early May, so I ask for your prayers for these students (and for their faculty) during these stressful weeks.

We left Wednesday evening and drove to Great Bend, where we spent some time with Grandpa and Craig before turning in for the night. We began our drive to Loveland, CO the next morning. The kids were absolute champs on the drive, and we continue to proclaim that the portable DVD player for the car was the best $180 we've ever spent. :)

We then spent Thursday night through Sunday enjoying the change of scenery. The Easter bunny hid eggs in Grandma and Grandpa's yard, and the kids had a great time finding them while all bundled up in their parkas, hats, and gloves. We also took a trip to the mall, where the kids had tons of fun in the play area. We got to go to UNC where to listened to Grandma play the piano for two of her students and also just enjoyed relaxing in a house that wasn't our own. Connor had a blast playing with a Tide box full of legos that once belonged to Uncle Justin and Daddy (True confession: I think Grandpa and Daddy enjoyed playing almost as much as he did), and both the kids enjoyed dying Easter eggs. Thanks, Aaron and Rachel, for showing us such a great time!!

Church on Sunday was very emotional for both Brandon and I. Reflecting on Christ's sacrifice on our behalf...there just aren't words for the feelings that evokes in one's heart. And then to look down the pew and see your two beautiful children...wow (the fact that they were rooting through my purse for gum as we looked at them makes the moment no less special). ;)

We packed up on Sunday after church in Fort Collins and began the 11 hour journey back to Kansas City. We arrived in one piece and were again thankful for our kiddos' good behavior.

We're pretty much recovered, but still looking for some sunshine in the midst of very dreary days. Hope your Easter was happy as well!!

Spring Has Sprung!!

Hello!

We welcomed spring into our lives this weekend by taking the kids to an Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by Aunt Sarah and Uncle James' church. There was a great deal of mud due to all the rainfall prior to the event, but that didn't stop us from collecting lots and lots of candy-filled eggs! Connor also enjoyed playing some of the carnival-style games they offered, and both of the kids had a great time playing on the playground and swinging while Grandpa and Uncle Jordan pushed them. Here are some pictures...

Last weekend, we planted a bunch of stuff in our new flowerbed, just off of our deck. I am especially excited about a couple lilac bushes that we planted. I can't wait to smell them as we sit out back enjoying summer evenings together! It has taken us quite some time to make this house truly our own, and we really enjoy getting to personalize it by doing things like planting flowers. There is just something about digging around in the dirt with the sun on your back that makes you slow down and appreciate life just a little bit more...

We've also recently broken out the lawn mower. As some of you know, our backyard is 1/2 acre in size, so mowing is no small task. We finally purchased a riding lawnmower last year after being sick and tired of arguing about when the huge expanse of lawn needed to be mowed--it took 2 hours to do with a push mower (my father-in-law told me that the cost of a riding mower was certainly cheaper than marriage counseling might be)! It is so neat to see the bright green grass and all the spring colors that surround us.

We had another exciting event in our lives this weekend--our very good friends Jason and Dana welcomed a beautiful baby boy, Aleksander Jason, into their family. He is their first-born, and it was thrilling for me to see one of my best friends become a mommy! We went and visited them in the hospital on Saturday, and the kids had a great time oohing and aahing over the new addition. What a blessing new life is!

We will spend the beginning part of this week preparing for our trip out to Colorado for the Easter weekend. The kids are really excited to see Grandpa and Grandma, and Mommy and Daddy are just trying to gear up for the long drive there and back. :) We are really looking forward to the change of scenery for a short while--it's been awhile since we've been able to get away.

We hope this finds you doing well and enjoying some springtime fun of your own!

Knock, Knock!!

Hello!

Things have gone considerably better with our eldest since my last post, so thank you to all of you who have said a prayer for us. We're not 100% yet, but hey, progress is progress!

We had a very quiet weekend here at 509 Cierra Circle. It was nice and much needed. Brandon left Sunday evening for a short trip out to California, so the kids and I are holding down the fort.

Speaking of the kids, one of our new pastimes is telling knock-knock jokes--preschooler and toddler style, of course! For example:

Connor: Okay, here's my joke. Mommy, you start.

Me: Knock-Knock

Connor: Who's there?

Me: I don't know--it's your joke!

Hysterical laughter.

Kylee: Knock-knock

Daddy: Who's there?

Kylee: Apple who?

Daddy: Apple who who?

Hysterical laughter.

It's the simple pleasures, isn't it?

I am almost certain both of our children have inherited their sense of humor from both of their Grandpas. :)