Thinking Spring . . .

And hoping pink. I went to the Dr. yesterday and we took a look at baby. He said I should start buying a lot of pink. I'm hoping he's not wrong on this one. We're excited for a little girl.

It was such a nice day, definitely ushered in spring fever for me. Nik and I took Hudson and Bentley on a walk in the wagon. They loved being outside! It was therapeutic for everyone.

Green For A Reason

I never really wanted Hudson to be born on St. Patrick's Day. I remember crying all the way home from the birthing center on the 16th (when we were scheduled to have him, but they had no empty rooms.) "He'll always have stupid green cupcakes to share with his class!" But now I am beginning to realize the significance of his birth date.
Yesterday we met up with Grandpa Hillman and Dale for Bonneville County Implement's customer appreciation lunch. He never stopped pointing or saying "John Deere" or "tractor" the entire time we were there. If I didnt' know better, I'd say the kid bleeds green. He is a JOHN DEERE boy through and through. I think he'll enjoy taking John Deere cupcakes to his class.

Painting Siesta

There's still work being done on the house, but not much that I'm too involved with. Most of my painting projects are on hold- waiting for other things to get done (texturing, new doorways, wall removal.) I am currently working on repainting our inherited jungle green entertainment center. It's a time consuming job, but I think it will look nice in black.

So instead of dragging Hudson over to the new house, we've been spending more time at home. I've done a little scrapping. Here's the latest.

Hey Pappa

Just a few suggestions for my upcoming birthday:

*A larger implement for my Big Scoop.
*A banister for my new house.
*A swing set.

I might be asking a lot, but a kid can have high expectations for such an awesome Grandpa.

Progress

Despite all the work left on our new house, we have been making progress. Slowly, but surely. I have Hudson's room, the office, and my laundry room painted. I'm now working on repainting the jungle green entertainment center we inherited. The footings were poured yesterday and by the end of today, there won't be any more of the nasty old carpet left. We backed Brent's semi up to the front door and have been throwing all of the junk inside. I think we could fit our entire trailer house inside his commodity trailer, so we should have plenty of room to make only one trip to the dump.

On a different note, progress is being made with my pregnancy. I have felt decent for the past week, I feel the baby moving around, and I'm starting to get a little tummy. I suppose "Progress" is all in the eyes of the beholder.

Bye Bye Pappa

Hudson loved being with "Momma" and "Pappa" this weekend. When we got in our car to come home he just kept saying, "bye, bye, pappa." He doesn't get to spend a lot of time with them, but he sure enjoys the attention they pay him. Thanks family for the fun weekend.

Choices

I have been overwhelmed by the amount of choices we have for our remodeling/rennovation project. Since Brent and I are completely opposite kind of decisions makers, it's been a little. . . interesting. Brent will overturn every rock and possible option, while I on the other hand- have a general idea of what I want and just want it now. So although we still haven't decided on the hardwoord flooring or carpet we'd like, we have decided on a floor plan for our addition. Weather permitting, they should begin a week from now. I'm just afraid that all of this rain is going to make for some treacherous conditions for the cement truck (no, I really don't want one sunk to it's axels in my backyard.)
I also solidified some of my paint choices with a trip to Home Depot yesterday. I took Nik along so she could have the last say. Looks like I'll be getting my spring green laundry room after all.

Growing Vocabulary

Hudson has been eating like a horse lately. I think he's gained 5 lbs in the last week. He's becoming quite a solid little kid. At mealtime or snack time, "mo?" can be heard quite frequently followed by "cheez" (his version of please) and "tan tu" (thank you.)

While watching his favorite tv show he often comments, "George" and makes other silly monkey sounds.

When seeing you for the first time in a room he'll greet you with a big "hi."

"Bubbles" are synomous with bath time.

"Hot" is his way of saying something is uncomfortable. Food, smashed fingers, fire, and dirty diapers can all be hot.

"Mo" while opening the fridge means his sippy needs refilled. "Juice" or "milk" are his only real options.

While running to our french doors or sliding a chair to our back window "Pappa , Tractor!!" are excitedly exclaimed when Hudson hears the tractor coming to feed the cows.

"Ruff-ruff" is used to describe things that are small and run around- baby calves included.

"Um. . ." "Um. . . " "Mom." fill our days of playing tractors and reading books.

While singing along to Jodee Mesina's "If Not You . . . " he questions "Who!?"

He insists on wearing his John Deer "hat" around.

"Boots," "gloves," and his "coat" are a must when going out to help do chores.

I wondered if he'd ever learn more words than "tractor." I guess he can. I only wonder what he'll be saying in a week or two.

Moving In

We started moving into our new house today, but not like you probably imagine. Instead we rolled in with pry bars, sledge hammers, air chisels, and an air compressor. We decided not to waste any time before getting the rennovation underway. Well . . .we took a few minutes to snap some "before" pictures. We're hoping that after ones are a night and day difference. Brent attacked the main fireplace hearth and started tearing down the ugly rock. I went after the tile in the entrance way. It's cathartic to get things ripped up. I get tired thinking of all the work ahead of us, but get excited to think that it will be our HOME.

Making Me Happy

I woke up feeling good today and that made me happy. I'm hoping there are many more days of feeling good since I am now in my 2nd trimester. We had German pancakes for breakfast, topped with strawberry yogurt and fresh strawberries. MMM. . . how can you eat that and not be happy? I'm lovin strawberries, they're a symbol of spring.I went shopping yesterday and found some fun things for cheap. That tends to make me happy. I found a funky pair of shoes at DI. In addition, I found a big glass vase/urn and a bunch of daffodils. Kmart had this cool red bowl on Christmas clearance for 99 cents. I put some apples in it for an easy table decoration.All of the little primroses at Fred Meyer made me happy. As a matter of fact, on begged me to take it home. I'm rather glad I did. They're just so cute. What's making you happy?

Chore Buddy

The end of January always marks the beginning of calving season for the Hillman herd. This year is no exception. Calves were tagged and sorted on Friday and here it is Tuesday, and we're already tagging another 25 calves. I enjoy being able to get out and help tag. It reminds me of all the early mornings doing chores with my dad. I have myself a little chore buddy. Hudson rides in the tractor with Grandpa while they feed. He helps us round the cows up on the 4 wheeler and today he went with me to help tag.
As soon as tractors, cows, or ruff-ruffs are mentioned or heard, he heads for his boots. It will be nice when it's warm enough to send him outside without boots, coats, overalls, and mittens. I think we both will enjoy warmer weather and the freedom of not being in the house all the time.

Feel The Love

Just sharing my latest Valentines goodies with you. Eye Candy. I made the mailbox out of chipboard, packing tape, and hot glue. I found the take out boxes at JoAnns and decorated them up with AdornIt's stuff. Valentine's decor makes me happy. The colors are so fun and refreshing after the long, cold winter.

Mo' Please

Hudson loves cereal. It doesn't matter what kind; Honey Combs, Raisin Bran, Honey Bunches of Oats, oatmeal- you name it, he'll eat it. He won't even eat his yogurt without granola in it. I guess it's a good thing he doesn't mind cold cereal or yogurt because he's been getting it an awful lot lately. I keep thinking one of these days I'll feel like cooking, but then again, why cook when you can throw your kid a carton or yogurt and call it lunch?

Ag Expo

Every year I look forward to getting out of the house and going to the Holt Arena for the Ag Expo. It's a great place to stock up on pens, notepads, and candy. Nik and I ditched the men and pushed the boys around in their strollers. Never before have I felt out of place, but it seemed like all of the other expo-going males looked at us a little strange. Who cares, I'm a farmer too. After Chod finished presenting at the Potato School, he came and took my company away. Hudson loved pretending to drive all of the tractors. After wandering around for several hours, Brent quit talking and we were finally able to go home. I don't know if it was much different than previous years, but my pregnancy yuck seemed to have put a damper on the whole experience.

Early Morning Visitors

Hudson woke up early, so Brent brought him to bed. After a few minutes of lying there, he had had enough and crawled over Brent and baled out. Just a few minutes later, he brought in his tractor and ripper and put them on our bed. After a few more trips, he crawled back in bed with us and started hooking everything together. Once his train of equipment was assembled, he started driving it toward me. At first his advance was subtle and then I realized I was being pushed out of bed. I wasn't too happy about being kicked out of bed by a John Deere and 22 month old operator.

Movie Star

Grandma sent these purple, glittery glasses of Tameka's home with Hudson. He loves to wear them around. Most of the time he has them on upside down, because the nose piece is lower so they stay off his chubby cheeks a little bit more. I can't look at him with them on without busting out into a smile. Sorry the picture isn't the best, but hope it brings a smile to your face too.

If You Stay Away Too Long

When I don't post for awhile, nothing seems blog worthy anymore. The story lately has been keeping warm. Today all the schools were closed in the valley because of the extremely cold temperatures (-33 wind chill.) It's quite extreme considering 3 days ago it was 40 F.
I woke up this morning at 5:00 am - don't ask me why. So I waited to hear our pellet stove kick on. Nothing, so I waited for a few more minutes. Still nothing. My face was the only thing exposed to the elements, as rest of my body was nice and cozy beneath our electric blanket. I felt my nose, it was cold. I figured something must be up with the stove, so I went to investigate. I started to panic when I couldn't get it to work. Our house was only 55 and dropping rapidly. I called for Brent and went to get the owners manual.
Two hours later, after tearing the entire thing apart, it decided to work. Well, I don't think it was so much it's decision, but God forcing it to in order to answer my prayers. After the adventure I've learned a thing or two. First, I had to face my fear. I always thought we were vulnerable if the thing decided not to work- even more so with sub zero temperatures. I was reminded that I have a very persistent husband who doesn't quit. Not a trait I always enjoy when it comes to him being home for dinner, but a good trait nonetheless. I learned that I am looking forward to our new house that has several heating sources, so we have options. Lastly, I was reminded of our Heavenly Father's tender mercies and that He answers prayers.

Night Rider

My dad had an old cow that he named NightRider. She was a brangus holstein cross and completely black. I was reminded of her as I was driving home from Nikkala's on Friday night.
Ahead of me, off the side of Highway 91, I saw a reflector flicker. As I approached I saw that it was a young kid, pedaling his bike into the wind, carrying a grocery bag, and wearing a black coat. Not the safest predicament for nighttime travel. "He's going to get killed, " I thought and drove to the first corner. I turned around and headed for the mysterious Night Rider. I rolled down my window and asked if he needed a ride or to use my cell phone. "That would be great," he said pushing his bike across the road towards my car. He had been riding into the wind and must have been frozen.
After a few questions I learned that he was on his way to his friends house on Rich Lane. We tried the best we could to stash his bike in the trunk and he hopped into the passenger side. "I figured it was going to take me 45-50 minutes, but I didn't account for the wind," he explained. We drove around for awhile trying to find his friends house. After making a couple of phone calls he was able to navigate me to where his friend was waiting outside. I dropped him off and told him to call his Mom right away and let her know he made it safely.
On the drive home I had a million questions and thoughts of how I should have handled the situation better. I did get his name, Brandon Collins- a 6th grader. And I did try phoning his mom, but she was apparently out of gas on the freeway with no cell phone. The only contact I made with his family was his 13 year old sister. Oh well, I tried doing the right thing. I was just glad to have gotten him off the side of the busy road and out of the cold. He would have been awhile since it was over 5 miles and he didn't even know where his friend lived.

Welcome 2007

For the new year, I decided to pull out all the stops to make this one of my most riveting posts yet. (This might be old news for some of you.) Some exciting changes await our family this year. First of all, we have had the opportunity to purchase a new home. It came as a bit of a surprise since we weren't actively looking. One day our next door neighbor called and offered us his home. We decided that they don't come any closer and it was a good opportunity for us. We hope to close on it February 1st and then the work will begin. It needs a good deal of love and attention, but I'm excited about the possibilities.
I guess a larger home is appropriate since we have a new baby on the way! We are excited for the new addition. As with Hudson, I have been deathly ill. Okay, that might be exaggerating, but this all day sickness has kept on the couch for a few days. We were hoping to keep it a secret a little longer, but I can't fake it for long around family so we had to spill the beans during Christmas. I figured the whole world might as well know by now. Hopefully I'll be feeling better in time to start the renovating on our new house. We're looking at another August baby- who plans these things anyway? We're just hoping for a healthy baby and will deal with it's arrival whenever. The ultrasound is little more than proof that I've been to the doctor and it's official since the baby is so tiny.
I don't know if it qualifies as best post ever, but it's news I was excited to share and docuent.

Merry Tractor. . .I mean Christmas

We had a wonderful Christmas this year. We went to Burley Christmas Eve. There was a lot of snow which made it fun. After our nice Christmas dinner, we made the rounds visiting Grandma Wilkins at the Warren House and Grandpa Parish and Park View Care Center. Once home we waited for the Stephens to arrive. Hudson and I cut out early and went to bed. It's a good thing, because I still have a hard time sleeping Christmas Eve- the anticipation nearly kills me. After waking up every hour, 7:00 finally rolled around (the "legal" time for getting up at the Parish house.) We had to call up the troops, but present opening soon got under way.
Santa had left Hudson's John Deere Big Scoop unwrapped, so he really didn't even need to open anything. He spent the entire day playing on or with that tractor. He got another tractor and between the two, we shouldn't have bothered with any other gifts. Hopefully he'll learn that it is manly to share your tractors.

Snow Baby

I decided to bundle Hudson up and take him outside to play in the snow. First the snowpants, then his hat, we pushed and shoved his little feet into his boots, put his coat and mittens on and we were ready for action. He enjoyed the sled ride, but once I stopped he decided playing in the snow was more fun. It's so fun to watch him try to move around when he's so bundled. He must have stayed warm because he was in no hurry to come inside.

Latest Project

I decided to make some aprons for my nieces. They worked up pretty fast and since my sewing machine is working better, I even embroidered their names on them. I hope they enjoy them as much as I enjoyed making them.

My Buddy

If anyone would have told me a year ago that Hudson would keep getting funner, I would have said, "yeah right" because he was already really fun. But looking back, I'd have to say that he has gotten funner . . . and bigger. He has decided that the whole talking thing can be okay, so now he's our little parrot. His facial expressions are absolutely hilarious. He can give us five, play catch and tag, run around excitedly when you chase him . . . help clear the table after dinner, dust, get his own diaper, help rinse the dishes . . . he's just a little helper.
I'm excited for Christmas with him. Hudson has been a constant reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. Several times a day he points to our nativities or pictures of Christ and says "Jesus!" He loves to ooh and aah when I plug in the lights on the tree. He says "WOW!" when he sees pretty lights while we're driving. I think he will be so excited for a few of his gifts and spend the rest of the day playing with them. And maybe, he'll give me some more spontaneous kisses . . . out of the blue, for no reason other than I can tell he feels loves.

Count Down Continues

We're getting close to being ready for Christmas. Hudson still needs to get his dad a present and then our shopping should be complete. **Disclaimer: Brent's shopping has not been figured into the equation. ** The last of our Christmas cards should be reaching their destinations. Now only if Bentley's present would hurry up and appear on my front porch. Since making candy with the sisters on Friday, Brent shouldn't need any more sweets. We need to deliver gifts to our neighbors and return our library books and then we'll be ready. Ready to go to Burley, spend time with the family, watch Hudson enjoy the magic of Santa, and have a good ol' time. Perhaps I should have left a little more shopping or something to do. It might become a chore to pass the time without much to keep us busy. The anticipation nearly kills me every year.

I don't want to wait until I grow. . .

I'll teach and preach and work as missionaries do. I have this "future missionary" pin for Hudson. Since the missionaries were speaking in our ward, I decided to have him wear it. I tried getting him to stand so I could get a picture of it, no luck. So here is our future missionary-- studying the scriptures with farming in the back of his mind. Crazy thing is, the Ensign has been getting more attention lately than the FastLine.

Presents on the Brain

Up until today, we have never had a problem with Hudson getting into the wrapped gifts underneath the Christmas tree. For some reason it's a new day, something has triggered him, and he will not leave them alone. He likes to take them down, lift up a corner of wrapping paper to begin tearing, and look at me with a "you're not going to let me get away with this, right?" look. Should any of you recieve a gift that has some missing wrapping paper, you'll know it passed Hudson's quality control check and that I was out of the room for a minute.

Withdrawals

I don't know who is having a harder time- Hudson or me. Hudson doesn't have his in-home playmate anymore now that Bentley has returned to his home. Neither of them really understand the concept of sharing, so they both screamed as much as they played but now Hudson has nobody to play with--well, unless you count Mom. Lucky for me.

Simple Reminders

I decided to share my favorite part of our Christmas decorations--our nativity sets. The black one is made of clay. Brent and I bought it when we were in Chile. It's nothing short of a miracle that we were able to purchase it, since the sculptor only makes two a year and you must order them. For one reason or another it was available for us to purchase. The minute Brent and I saw it, we fell in love with it and knew it would be a wonderful souvenir. We got our Willow Tree nativity as a wedding gift. We are still working on getting all of the pieces. The nativity in the back is one that Brent's mom gave us. And the poinsettia is an early anniversary gift from Brent. A nice reminder that we've endured 4 years together.

Last night for Family Home Evening, we told the nativity story and let Hudson hold one of the baby Jesus. You could tell he could feel the importance, even if he's only 20 months. He could tell that it was special and he treated it carefully. Afterward he pointed out a picture of Christ we have in our home and thumbed through the Ensign pointing out all the pictures of Christ. He loves Jesus and can recognize him. Teaching Hudson about Christmas has helped me remember why it is such a special time of year. We hang lights to remind us of the Star that guided the Shephards to the Babe, we give gifts as the Wisemen of old did, we sing Christmas songs in the same spirit the Angels heralded Christ's birth. These symbols are simple reminders. They are not like the chaotic commercialism of Christmas, but instill peace as we remember that Christ was born and He lives again.

Once again my mind has been turned toward those in need. Not just in need of warm clothes and food, but in need of the gospel. Maybe my gift to some of those I associate with will be an invitation to come back.

Project

I had this brilliantly crazy idea awhile back to recreate our neighborhood as a playmat for Hudson. I took half of a canvas drop cloth, started a rough sketch and painted a road. That's how it sat for a few weeks until I took it to Burley this past weekend. Mom encouraged me and helped a bunch. It's not quite what I had dreamed up in my head, but Hudson enjoys it. I figure it can be a work in progress because I'm sure it's bound to get additional marker and crayon marks down the road.

Seeing Double

Sorry about the foggy bath picture. The boys weren't being modest in the clearer ones. They are having fun living with each other. Hudson does have a problem sharing his mom. If I hold Bentley you can bet that Hudson will be there in no time with his blanket in tow, climging onto my lap. I'm managing two alright- I mean, I've got an arm for each one. How do you mange three?

Deckin' our Halls

After rearranging the office, Hudson and I put up the Christmas decorations. He loved when I'd plug in any lights, "Wow." After watching me hang ornaments, he picked one up and tried to help me out. I think Brent and I are in for a fun Christmas- now that Hudson is old enough to play along. Christmas is such a magical time for kids.
I must have worn Hudson out because he fell asleep in hisbooster seat eating his lunch. I fed him lunch while I continued decorating. Pretty soon he got really quite. I talked to him, but no response. I had to look twice because I didn't think he could really fall asleep in that position.
I'm glad to have gotten the decorations up since Bentley came to stay with us for a week while Nik and Chod are in Hawaii. I don't imagine I'll get much accomplished with 2 boys. Hudson was excited for Bentley to get here. He tried spoon feeding him dinner tonight- always on the look out for a way to be helpful. For 20 months I think he's a pretty intuitive kid.

Dough Boy

I was responsible for making the rolls for the Hillman Thanksgiving dinner. As usual, Hudson pushed his chair over and kept the bosch company on the countertop. Whenever the lid was opened to add more flour or check on the dough, he would beg for some dough. He loves it. After about an entire roll of dough, I decided I'd better quit feeding him before he became the Pillsbury Dough Boy.

Bah Hambug

Am I the only one that snaps into grinch mode as soon as I hear/see ads soliciting donations for the needy? It's not that I don't want to help others this holiday season, I consider myself a generous and compassionate person. I just feel overwhelmed by all of my "options" for generous and philanthropic giving. Our society seems chock full of needy people. This year I plan on helping those who are truly in need, as for the unmotivated- try standing in the cold and ringing your own dang bell.

New Chest

The chest I'm talking about today are freezers. I am the proud new owner of 2 non-working chest freezers. I couldn't be happier. (I know, it doesn't take much to make me happy.) The reason I am so excited is because I now have some food storage space without it taking over our office. It is a great solution for big, bulky dry goods because it's 100% mouse proof and the extra insulation buffers against the extreme outside conditions, since ours freezers have to be in a shed. No worries, my canned foods still live in our office closet. I don't expect it to deal with the freezing temperatures.

Who says you have to have an exciting life to blog about?

The Writing on the Wall

Hudson has really enoyed drawing in his notebook lately. I decided he could be premoted from the ballpoint pen to a crayon. I knew I shouldn't have done it. I knew what was going to happen. After getting his notebook and crayon I hopped in the shower. I got out to magenta scribbles all over my wall and window sill in the entry way. But how can you get mad at a kid whose Mom gave him the crayon in the first place and then left him unsupervised? Totally my fault. After my google search, I took some baking soda and toothpaste to it. With a little elbow grease, it quickly disappeared. And then I remembered I should have tried my magic eraser. Oh well, I imagine I might have another opportunity to try its magic.

Like I say, this crayon scribble shouldn't have come as much of a surprise since the surprise came last week. Hudson snuck a green crayon out of the restaurant. I put him in his carseat while Brent and I visited with his sister and brother-in-law. When I peeked in to check on Hudson, the thighs of his khaki pants were green. I didn't know crayon colored so well on fabric. I'm not as successful with crayon removal from fabric as I am from walls. I'm up for any suggestions.

It Once Was Lost. . .

About 4 months ago Brent realized that he no longer had his wallet. He looked everywhere and to no avail. No biggie, who really needs a wallet anyway? I could pay whenever we went out for dinner, buy the groceries, and pay all the bills. Life was just fine without it. Well, up until about 3 weeks ago. Brent decided he'd like to have some buying power so he cancelled his cards and had them reissued. And then it was time to vote. You need a license for that. So $30 bucks for a new one. I was on the verge of buying him a new wallet to put his new cards in when Nik and I went to Idaho Falls.

The boys fell asleep in the car, so we'd take turns sitting in the car while the other went into a store. While Nik was in Roberts I decided to look for a spare diaper I remember putting in the jockey box (for those of you not hicks- refined people call them glove compartment boxes.) I open it up and what do I spot in the corner. . . that's right the lost wallet and two check books. I continued digging and found the spare key for the car. That will be nice to have since I have a record of locking my keys in the car. (The cops will dispatch a locksmith for free if you happen to have your child in the car although I don't recommend it.)

So for the jockey box being small, it sure was good at keeping the wallet and key hidden for a long time. What once was lost, now is found.

Give your Daddy a holla and eat squash for Dessert

Lately when I ask Hudson to go and get Brent, he'll turn his head a bellow "Daaaauuu" in his deepest and most manly voice. Must be a guy thing. It doesn't matter where Brent is in relation to Hudson, he lets out a big holla for his daddy.

On another note, we were just sitting down to eat dinner. Brent heard the microwave beep so he got up to get what ever was in it. He opened it up and asked if I wanted the squash out for dinner. I said, "nope, it's for dessert." That's right, I made one of my favorite desserts today. It's one of my favorites because any dessert that includes squash has got to be healthy so you can eat twice, or three times as much.
It's actually a recipe for pumpkin crisp, but I substitute the pumpkin with my garden grown squash. It's easy to make and oh so yummy. . . so go ahead make it today. My Aunt Maren makes something like it. I originally got the recipe from her but I lost it somewhere so here's what I do now.
Pumpkin Pie Crisp
2 c. pumpkin
1 T pumpkin pie spice
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 can evaporate milk
mix thoroughly and pour in a 9X13 pan
top with 1 white cake mix
drizzle 1 1/4 cubes melted butter over mix and top with 1 c. chopped nuts
Bake for 1 hour at 350. Enjoy!!

Roundin' Up

Yesterday we had to go up to Zitlau's to bring the cows home. (This is the guest ranch Hudson and I got to hang out at while Brent baled their hay.) I decided that Hudson and I would go since I found him a little pair of Carhart bibs at DI and they needed to make their big debut. We weren't much help since it was cold and snowing, but he was the cutest bundled buckaroo there. He was also pretty content to play in the pickup while I helped sort cows.

When we got home, Hudson continued the round up. He saw a spider scuddling across our kitchen floor, so he picked it up and rolled it around in his fingers before throwing it away. We had one of those big, fat, sleepy flies on our hearth. After pointing it out to Hudson, he ran over and picked it up for disposal. He's quite the little bug catcher. Hopefully he won't try this with any of the stray yellow jackets that occassionally make it into our home.

Bear Lake or Bust

When Brent told me that Robert Jensen had reserved their condo in Bear Lake for us this past week I was kind of annoyed. What is there to do in Bear Lake this time of year? And then I realized the sheer genius behind that. There is nothing to do there this time of year, so we'd have to take it easy in celebration of the finally complete harvest.
Despite not having much to do, we had a lot of fun. There was an indoor pool with a separate kiddie pool which Hudson loved. (One little side note: On occassion Hudson would swallow some water and choke/gag. When he did this I would pick him up and set him out of the pool for a minute. During one such episodes, he grabbed my face and gave me the sweetest kiss in between his coughs and struggle for breath. He seemed to be saying, "If I don't make it through this, here's a kiss." Too cute.) We made it to the lake on Wednesday before the weather turned off cold and snowy. Hudson went splashing out through the water. I think he would really enjoy it in the summer. On top of that, we watched a total of 6 movies- even more surprising- I stayed awake for all but one.
All in all, our family vacation to "There is nothing to do Bear Lake" was a success.

Growling at Frogs

So it's a good thing that I have Hudson, otherwise I'd have no subject for blogging. Yesterday we went to the library- (for any of you that haven't heard- I love the North Bingham County Library.) Hudson isn't much of a follower, he wanders. So the entire time into the library I'm coaxing him to follow me. Once inside the doors, he notices a display case containing lots of frogs- stuffed ones, glass ones, all kinds. He gets down on all fours and starts growling at them. After his growling stint, he manages to find a step stool and pushes it up and down the aisles. I'm sure they dread our visits.

When Hudson is riding in the car, he's become very good at entertaining himself. As a matter of fact, he entertains everyone in the car. Lately he spontaneously bursts into laughter- weird laughs that crack me up. He also will tense up his neck muscles and make he entire head shake. I hope it causes no permanent damage. Somehow he even manages to smile while he's doing it.

That's not the end of Hudson's talent. Last night he decided to run around with his arms held back (like Superman or something.) It occassionally threw him off balance and he would tumble onto his head, like a poorly executed sommersault. He also found a new use for a little drawsting bag that we keep some of his toy pieces in. He puts it on his hand and uses it like a glove, fascinated by the movement of the mysterious hand.
Kids. . . what fun.

Candy Apple Red

Grandpa Parish heard that Hudson and I were in Burley, so he hopped in his little Caddy and came on out. He whipped in the drive way in his candy apple red Cadillac. It's quite the ride, a step up from his old Blue and White Lightning. It sounds like he never stays home because the car "is just so fun to drive, it practically drives itself." We had a fun visit with him. He said Bentley and Hudson sure look a lot a like, yeah. . . like they're both boys. And of course they're both going to be great athletes. Grandpa says that "every day he's getting older and weaker," but he still manages to make it to his grandkid's ball games. I think it's cute he got this fancy little car, he seems quite proud of it.

Candy for Bob

Hudson was Bob the Builder for Halloween. SURPRISE! He had a little tool belt, plastic tools, hard hat, and gloves. We had to bundle up for our ward's Trunk or Treat, but he was a trooper. It didn't take him long to get into the candy thing. He'd make sure to grab extra pieces out of the bowl for his Dad. He made a haul. I even got him to share a few pieces with me. I think he's confused, he says "Bob" while he points to his candy. Now Bob is synomous for candy.

Looks Like Fall

Here are a few pictures of Hudson this fall. Sorry it's taken so long to get them up. Enjoy!

World's Cutest Scarecrow

How's that for the cutest scarecrow ever? Hudson begged me out of my gloves so he could play in the corn. I can't help but laugh when I see him wearing them around. He thinks he is so grown up. Little does he realize how big the gloves are on his little hands.

I Am THANKFUL Each Day

I bought Hudson a new book by the afore mentioned title. I feel thankful. Today was a beautiful autumn day. The sun was warm and the wind was still. The leaves on my trees are starting to give up and gently fall to the ground. Hudson and I decided we had better enjoy being outside before we are driven inside by winter. We played in the sandbox and cleaned up my flower beds. We watched as they thrashed the corn field directly west of our house. It looks and feels like fall.

I talked to Mom this afternoon. She sounded good. She has been getting up and walking around the nurse's station now that they have removed her IV's. She is still in the ICU, but they're going to sneak her into the women nurse's locker room for a shower tonight. I think that will make her thankful too. They have been cutting her back on morphine, but she isn't in as much pain. She is still tired, but that is probably a good thing. Instead of going crazy, she just wants to sleep.

The Phone Call

I was in my pajamas, ready to head to bed when I got a phone call from Dad. He told me how mom and him went in to watch Tameka perform at half time with the marching band when Mom got violently ill. He rushed her to to ER. They discovered that she had blood on her brain and was life flighted to LDS Hospital in Salt Lake. That was all the information I got. After a phone call to Nik we packed, ripped Hudson out of his crib and were on our way to SLC. After the initial shock and scare of the phone call I didn't spend much time considering all of the possible what ifs. Instead I had a peaceful feeling like everything would be alright.

We rolled into SLC around 2:30 a.m. Mom was still having tests ran, so we went with the Stephens to Crystal Inn for a few hours of sleep. That morning we learned that the bleeding had stopped. Dad, Nik, and I went to visit Mom that morning. She was still in pain and very tired. They had her in the shock and trauma ICU so that they could continue to monitor her. The doctor is being very cautious as complications are still a possibility. The brain will be able to get rid of the blood (since it makes 2 cups of fluid a day that is drained through the ventricles into the spinal cord where it is absorbed into the body.) They are just worried that any clots from the blood could cause a blockage. Mom will have to stay in the ICU for awhile longer while they continue to monitor her but we are all very optimistic. Despite being very tired and her painful headache, she is doing well.

It's amazing how a single phone call can realign all of your priorities in a hurry. All of our family was together for the weekend to support Mom. Of course, we can't all be together without having a little fun. We celebrated Tameka's 18th birthday (a day late) at Hire's Big H. Saturday night we (Dad, Nikkala, Chod, Bentley, Deidra, Chris, Tameka, Brent, Hudson and I) all spent the night in one motel room. You counted right, ten people in a 2 queen room. None of us really knew what the day would bring, so we hung out in Dad and Tameka's room which conveniently turned into OUR room. I was quite impressed with our ingenuity. Chris and Deidra had brought their air mattress. Tameka found the stash of cots and "jacked" 2 for Dad and her. The little boys slept in the pac n' plays provided and the Stephens and Hillmans took the beds. We all slept well. Bentley occassionally reminded us that he was still there but there wasn't even much snoring. I enjoyed the time we were all able to spend together.

I feel very blessed for Mom to be recovering and doing so well. The entire incident reminds me that life is fragile. Tomorrow might be too late to say "I'm sorry" or "I love you." I thank God for life-- my family's lives, my friends' lives, and my life. I hope not to ever take life for granted.

Hudson the Helper

Lately Hudson has been a big fan of Bob the Builder, so much so that I'm making him be Bob for Halloween. As soon as he hears the music, "Can we fix it?" he starts into his hilarious dance moves (thank you Uncle Chris.) He has a little tool belt and some plastic tools. The other night he was down under his crib trying to tighten some bolts and realign the railing with whacks of his hammer. He walks around the house looking for things he can tighten with his screw driver. Most of his toys have been worked over as well.

The other day, Brent was under the header of the chopper making some repairs when Hudson walks up. He squats down so he can peek under to get a better idea of what's going on. Before long he's handing Brent some wrenches (but onl y after he's done his share of tampering with any visible nuts or bolts) and pounding on things with the hammer. Oh yeah, I almost forgot. He's also been obsessed with gloves lately. While we've been cleaning up our garden, he insists on wearing gloves like me. It doesn't matter that they're way too big, he still tries to pick things up while he's wearing them. So of course, the entire time he's helping Brent, he's wearing the gloves he took from Brent- must run in the family because Brent got the gloves from me.

Yesterday before we left to go over to Grandma's to play with the Western kids, Hudson insisted that he have some gloves before we walked out of the door. (He now has a little pair of terry cloth gloves that Grandma gave him.) It's a good thing he had them on because they were all cleaning up leaves and working in the yard. Without hesitation, Hudson runs over and starts pitching in. He handed Dalton branches so he could put them in the burning barrel. Hudson also drug a leaf rake around for a good part of the day.

The highlight of his day was being able to ride with Daddy in the tractor when he went to bale. Hudson had been begging to get in the tractor all day. It's fun to see him be so excited about helping out. He really is Hudson the helper. Can he fix it-- YES he can!

Big Sigh

We are finished chopping corn!! Well . . . almost. Brent agreed to do 3o acres for this guy but then we should done. What's another 30 acres after 1400 acres? Corn harvest turned into being a full time job that demanded lots of overtime. We worked a lot of 12-14 hour days. In the past I haven't noticed the long hours, but it was really hard for me this year. I think it's because I didn't take Hudson in the truck with me (it would have been torture for both of us.) Many nights I'd pick him up from Nikkala's or Grandma's after he'd already gone to sleep and return him shortly after I'd wake him up in the morning. I don't know how working moms do it. You get home from a long day of work and come home hungry to a filthy house. There were days that my only goal once I got home was to make sure Brent and I both had clean pants for the next day.
It's too bad that farm work is all or nothing. I thought I might get away with working part time this year. . . HA! It's not the truck driving, getting dirty, or even the bathroom break in the corn field that I mind. It the long hours that prevent me from being a mom and a wife. During harvest Brent has added pressure and is always stressed out trying to manage the business from his seat in the chopper. Add to the mix a tired Karisa who doesn't get to be a mom and you've got a recipe for disaster. I've informed Brent that I will be the lunch lady next year. I can't think of a better job. When you're in the truck, any warm food that you haven't packed around in your lunch box all day is a godsend.
Now if we can just finish up this high moisture corn and get all of 4th crop put up and we will be in good shape. Maybe Brent will be able to eat dinner with us one of these days.

Lawnmower Naps

From the time that Hudson was tiny, I'd have him ride with me while I mowed the lawn. I remember bundling him up in his Snugli and zipping my jacket over him. He still likes to ride with me for the hour and a half it takes me to mow the lawn. For the most part he's pretty good about riding the entire time. Once and awhile he wants off to go and play in his sandbox. Today he came running as soon as he heard the mower. I put him on my lap. Pretty soon he was standing in front of me and steering. That only lasted a minute before he wanted back on my lap. Then he wanted to turn around. Before long he started to get heavy and his head started to bobble all over. Sure enough, he had managed to fall asleep. The first time he ever fell asleep on the mower, I tried taking him in to his crib because it's pretty hard to hold on to a sleeping baby and steer at the same time. No use, he just woke up screaming. I tried again another day with the same outcome. So today I just pulled him closer and enjoyed the warmth of the fall sun. All too soon he'll be too big to sit on my lap and won't want anything to do with mowing the lawn.