Big Boy Bed

I decided to post a few pictures from Hudson's room, since he's finally sleeping there. For the past two weeks he has been sleeping in his own bed, in his own room. I don't think it was really his problem that he slept in his crib up until then. I kept putting off moving him to his own room since it's on a different floor. Yes, I'm the same mom that kept him in a bassinet in our room until he was probably 4 months old because I thought the other end of the trailer house was too far. But so far, so good. I was even able to hear him the other night when he started crying during the middle of the night.

I still have things to get hung up on the wall, but the stripes did a lot for the room. I was shooting for an old gas station feel since we're decorating it with cars.

Out Shopped

Today I was out shopped at DI by Nikkala. It came as quite a surprise considering that she's never really enjoyed going into this store, let alone browsing. I had looked at all I wanted to and she said there was still another rack that she wanted to look through. Can it be, can a person be converted and learn to enjoy DI? I think so. And it was a lot of fun to have her browsing with me.

Grandma Bennett

A dear friend of mine, Grandma Bennett, passed away on Saturday. I adopted her and her husband as "grandparents" while I was attending school at USU. Since graduating and moving from Logan, I have continued to visit the Bennetts. Visitis became a little less frequent when they moved to an assisted living home in SLC. I met Grandma after she had several medical complications, including a stroke. Despite her health conditions, she was always so sweet and optimistic. I will miss visiting with her. She was a special lady.

MH King

Growing up, we had a Kings in Burley long before WalMart. I remember getting all of our school supplies there and gifts for Secret Sisters. The small town I live in also has a Kings. Yesterday I went there to get Hudson some shoes he can get on/off himself. We found "crocs" for $5.00. They also had little ankle socks for him (I've been looking all over for them.) We also bought him some Bob pj's (they were already discounted and they took an additional 50%) making them $2.25! What a deal. I came home and am in love with Kings. It's all I could talk about when Brent got home. So if you live near a Kings, go visit it today. Oh yeah, tomorrow (Sat. May 12th) they're having a free make and take it. Your kiddies get to pick out a flower, pot it, and bring it home for their Mom in honor of Mother's Day. I think I'll have to take Hudson.

Friday's Feature Room

Hello all. I decided to feature my new kitchen today. It was the most work, considering that "it" didn't exist before the addition. The previous kitchen was tiny and stuck in a little corner. We have transformed that corner space into an area that will become a little sitting room. Just a run down of the components: door to outside (which will one day be our patio) Kenmore Trio fridge- love it, appliance garage in the corner, JennAir double oven- dual fuel, pantry. In the island, Bosch dishwasher, Moen Stone black sink, massive water faucet. The cabinets are a rustic cherry and painted alder (black), countertops are a laminate Bella Noche. Once again, the flooring is natural heartwood hickory with sculpting. It is so fun to have some counter space. Thanks for looking.

Homophone Challenge

Last night Hudson was looking at a book when he ripped one of the pages. I told him to run and get the tape so we could fix it. As I sent him off Brent said, "I don't think he understands everything you say." We heard pitter-patters to the mud room. I told him the tape was in the office. Soon he came running back, huge smile on his face, and a measuring tape in hand. "Tape" he said as he handed it to me. He was right, it was a tape, but not the same tape I was thinking of. What an enthusiastic little helper I have. Homophones can be a bit tricky for a two year old.

As Promised

It's hard to believe that it's Friday already. It's been a busy week of packing lunches and dinners for Brent who is right in the middle of planting corn. Today we should reach the 1/2 way point! It's quite a push, as Dale and Travis have been helping to plant around the clock.

A day or two ago, we finally got the furniture set for the family room that we ordered back in January. Long story, suffice it to say -- JOKE! Now that it's here, I decided to feature our living room today.

And as a bonus, I threw in the laundry room too! Enjoy.

I Have A Condition

I don't know what you term it, but I know I have problems. And it's not even cancer this time Mom. For the last 3-4 months (probably longer) I have become even more aware of my condition. I cannot sit down, chill out, take a breather whatever you want to call it. That would be great if I were getting lots of things done, but it seems like I'm just spinning my wheels. To do lists seem to get longer and there are never enough hours in the day. People- I need your help.

Woke up a Farmer

I know what you're all thinking. . . Hudson has been a farmer since he was born. This may be true, but today he is a bonafide farmer. We had to go help work some ground today so he reached for his John Deere hat. After asking him to go and get his shoes, he brought back his boots instead. (I think we might have to get some more breathable boots if the obsession continues.) What is a farmer without his hat and boots? Oh yeah, and don't forget the lunch box. That makes for a long day- trust me. If the farming thing doesn't work out, I suppose he could always be a John Deere salesman.

Relief

For the last month now, the Hillman household has been undecided about what to do with our new puppy. Hudson became a recluse and wouldn't step foot outside if he thought Makita might be out there. This meant no more sandbox playtime, no walking outside- Mom had to carry him around the entire time we were outside. At about the time we considered getting rid of Makita , Hudson decided that she was okay and that she wasn't going to eat him. Now their best buddies. He saves her food at mealtime. He starts calling her name (okay- his version of her name) when we get close to being home. She is a good puppy and can usually be found on our front or backstep once we've come inside. Here's a picture of them riding in the bike trailer together.

Happy Friday

I decided to surprise you all with a comparison of our upstairs family room. Before and After. I know it's only one room of the house, but I'll keep posting a room a week. The pictures from before and after aren't from exactly the same angle. Pretty close though. In the last set, we added the window and took out the wall around the stair well. It opened the room up a ton. One day we will get the railing up that Dad made for us. Make sure to come back for more.And since it's Friday, I decided to leave you all with a sweet treat. Nikkala introduced me to these bundles of goodness from Downtown Bread Co. in Blackfoot. I just had to see if I could recreate them in my own kitchen. Enjoy!

I love a Rainy Day

So I can go and play. (For you Standards fan, are you singing along yet?)
I've had this rain jacket since last year and since it finally fits Hudson, we decided to put it on today. Hudson ran to get his boots, and then he was out the door. He loved splashing in the puddles. Makita came and tried to play with him. That quickly ended the fun until we locked her up. Once I was soaked, I made him come in. I think he'd still be out there if it wasn't for me dragging him inside.

Letter to my Fans

Dear Fans,
I apologize for my absentee blogging status lately. It seems as though the move greatly disrupted my blogging routine. Rest assured that all is well. Most of the boxes are unpacked now, although nothing is hung on the walls. It still looks very empty, but nice to finally be in.
On a different note, I went to the chiropractor today. I kept telling Brent I would go once we were all moved. She hooked me up to the electrodes and smothered me with heat pads for 20 minutes. It was heaven. I've never heard my bones crack quite like they did today. I guess I was in need of a good alignment. I'm feeling better already . . . now if I can only convince Hudson to come and snuggle with me for a nap.
Cheery-O!
Karisa

Happy Easter

Over the past few days, Hudson and I have managed to escape from working on the house long enough to enjoy the beautiful spring weather. We met Nik and Bentley at the park and had a little picnic. Hudson loved the slide and swings. We also burnt ditch banks (have I ever told you how much I enjoy doing thing?!) Yesterday we attended our 1st Firth Easter egg hunt and I was quite suprised. Maybe now I'll claim the town. Each egg was sponsored by a local business. At the end of the hunt, you took your name to the business and they gave you your treat. And I'm not talking little dinky smarties or anything, but regular sized candy bars, chocolate bunnies, or boxes of peep. I know, you'll all be headed to Firth next year. We alsopulled out the grill and cooked steak.
Meanwhile, Brent has been laboriously finishing our hardwood floor. It turned out to be a great deal of work- more than we anticipated- but they look beautiful. He applied the last coat of finish last night. Hooray! Carpet should be installed Monday and Tuesday and then I guess we're ready for the big move (across the driveway- but a move nonetheless.)
Hudson was better at finding the eggs at home than at the egg hunt yesterday. I think he was overwhelmed by all of the people and just wanted held yesterday. Through out the day, he'll hand Brent or me an egg and say "huhn" meaning he wants to hunt.
We wish you all a Happy Easter!

*I know what you're thinking about the family picture- Who lets their child wear socks with sandals. Let me explain. They are the only church shoes this kid has since his feet are sooo fat. So I put the sandals on his barefeet this morning and he immediately wants them off. We decided socks and sandals were better than no shoes for church at all. We'll work on it.

Makita

After working on the house all day Saturday, we headed out for Burley at 7:30 p.m. We enjoyed the visit, good food Mom fixed, and watching conference. Then at about 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, we headed back. . .
I guess I'm leaving out a few minor details. We picked up the handrail that Dad had fabricated for our new house and got a puppy on our quick visit. She's a cute, spotted Mutt-Akita mix. So we're naming her Makita. I was a little nervous to bring her home. I know I shouldn't be afraid of the responsibility since I have a child and one on the way, but I did feel a little overwhelmed. I mean, I've never had my own puppy to raise and nurture. I am happy to report that we're getting along just fine. Hudson got on his boots this morning and we braved the wind to get little Makita fed.

Heaven Revisited

Tonight while I was eating dessert I was reminded of how much I love fresh strawberries dipped in a mixture of sour cream and brown sugar. It is delish! I highly recommend you get yourself a bowl full.

Two Year Old

Well, I don't have a great subject to post about like Myron- but I also have a critter born on St. Patty's Day 2 years ago. Hudson is living up the the "terrible" part of a two year old. Yesterday all I heard was "NO!" The funny thing is that I can tell him "Hudson, say yes" and he'll say "yes" not really realizing what he has just said. He has also decided that it is fun to assault me. I hope that it is only a stage and he turns 3 tomorrow. ;)

Sneak Peek

It seems like we're never going to be able to move in. Our sheet rock guy won't be here until Wednesday. Argh! Even though I'm waiting on him to finish things up so I can complete my painting, I still managed to find plenty to paint today. I spent all day painting doors and trim- tedious. I don't know if the painting will ever end. When I find myself getting discouraged, I take a look at the "before" pictures of the house. No wonder there has been a lot of painting- the house was pretty scary. I know it will all be worth it, I just have to remind my tired, overworked, pregnant body of that sometimes. On a happier note, we did get all of our cabinets installed today. Hope you enjoy the pictures! The kitchen pictures aren't from the same angle, so they're deceiving. The new kitchen is a result of the add-on.

Celebration For A Two Year Old

The celebration got off to a start bright and early. Grandma and Grandpa Parish had spent the night and were anxiously waiting for Hudson to wake up that morning. Grandma was itching to give him Mater, which he gladly accepted. After breakfast we headed out the door, greeted by a beautiful and sunny morning. Where we were headed so early in the morning? Ah- yes! The new house for a full day of work.
Later that morning we were joined by more volunteers. Todd, Nik, Chod, Bentley, Deidra, and Chris also came to help us on our "project." We couldn't have asked for nicer weather or better help. We stopped for a picnic lunch of sloppy joes and potato salad. During the course of the day, the crews accomplished a lot. We got the upstairs painted, (to the point of the newly added dormer and still unfinished ceiling --where we ripped the wall out around the stairs) drop cloth removed and thoroughly vacuumed. The wood for our floor was beveled, lava rock completely removed from basement, crawl space access completed, upstairs trim primed, and main family room primed and painted. The first rows of wood flooring were also laid. In short, we got a lot done. Thanks for everyone's help!
Party time rolled around awful fast. We scurried over to the upstairs family room for the Monkey Party. After a quick round of "Name that monkey," we dished up banana splits and monkey cupcakes. The cousins couldn't wait for Hudson to open presents, so we did that right away.
Here's the run down:-Chris & Deidra - magic farm book and band-aids
Westerns-Curious George Coloring book and an outfit
Dalton- his old John Deere baby blanket (This won as the most thoughtful gift of the evening. It's worn around the edges, but Hudson was delighted to get it. Dalton and Hudson are best buds. We were glad that Western's were able to come to the party.)
Grandma and Grandpa Hillman- Lightning McQueen car and jacket
Melanie and Todd- bubble wand and kite
Nik, Chod, & Bentley- insulated cooler, complete with snacks
Grandma and Grandpa Parish- work bench, blocks, and tools
Mom and Dad- tricycle, due to the excitement we forgot to give it to him at the party
An older couple in our ward also stopped by and gave Hudson a big-wheeled lo-lo (loader for all of you who don't know.) He was so excited Deidra couldn't get it out of the package quick enough.

It was a busy day, but Hudson wouldn't have it any other way. He got to play with Mamma and Pappa Parish all day, be around all of the construction and tools, play in the sandbox with Bentley, ride in the tractor to feed cows with Grandpa Hillman, play with all of his cousins, and eat ice cream. It was a day fit for a two year old.

Easter Buckets

I finished these up this morning and thought that I'd share. Nothing too fancy, but a lot of fun to create.

Reunited at Last

After a cold and long winter, Hudson has once again been able to return to his sandbox and the great outdoors. Ahh, what relief. Yesterday he played in the sandbox practically all day.

"Hudson, you need to come inside for lunch."

"No," as he continued to play.

And he didn't. I finally made us a picnic lunch to enjoy outside. He only ate a few bites since he had to get back to playing. Finally at 3:30, I drug him inside (yes, kicking and screaming the entire way) so he could take a nap and give his little body a rest.

I predict the little tow head will return and be as will be as bright as ever. I also think any semblance of a chunky little boy will quickly melt away with long hours of play and lack of interest in food. We'll see. Hope you all were able to enjoy some nice weather like Hudson did.

More Fun Than A Barrel Of Monkeys

The renovation continues on the house. We are making some progress. Sheet rock is going up in the addition, rock is going up on the upstairs hearth, and we've gotten the mantel sanded down and in place. I finished fauxing the guest bedroom this morning. As far as I'm concerned, the "fun" part is about to begin. Everything should start coming together. Once the walls are textured I'll have a bunch of painting and then we can start laying flooring. Then the cabinets can be installed, counter tops put into place, appliances moved in, and then one day we will move in. Our little project has become our life and consumed our days. We spend about every waking minute there, so it will be nice to officially move.

In the mean time, I've managed to complete a different kind of project. I made Hudson a sock monkey and he loves it. The monkey's name is George of course, and he likes to carry him around. It's kind of like a doll, but masculine enough to be cool. Now I've just got to find a minute to embroider some banners to tie around our Easter buckets. Stay tuned.

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.