the andersons

bedhead

2012-01-30T16:31:00.000-08:00

Wow.... doesn't get much cuter than this!!

Oh Maggie...

2012-01-23T15:14:00.000-08:00

Our conversation last week at Grandmas

Me: " Maggie, say Mom"

Maggie: "Mom

Me: "Say Dad"

Maggie: "Dad"

Me: "Say Papa"

Maggie: "Papa"

Me: "Say Banana"

Maggie: "Nana"

Me: Say '"Apple"

Maggie: "Apple"

Me: "Um...Say Cracker

Maggie: "Ca Cer"

Me: "Say Yes"

Maggie: "No"

Me: "Maggie, say yesss"

Maggie: "NO"

what a little stink...

Our Home

2012-01-16T14:39:00.000-08:00

Did I mention we built a home??

We signed our papers and 80 days later we're living in our brand new home! It was so fun to drive by and see the progress each day. It's just around the corner from our apartment and the school Caden teaches at, so it's perfect.

Maggie getting excited for her new room!!

The biggest change so far is that it has been so quiet! We're used to neighbors next to us and above us since we've been married, so it's nice we can watch movies, listen to music, do laundry and even talk whenever we want. I'm sure Caden's glad the home building is over with cause I kept changing my mind about colors and cabinets etc. It was a fun journey and I'm sure it's only the beginning with owning a home.

moments that make me laugh

2012-01-06T08:43:00.000-08:00

Maggie was flipping through pages of our Ensign and there was a picture of Thomas S Monson. I asked her, "Who's this?"

She immediately tells me "Ta-ta" (Santa), with a huge smile on her face. I guess he is a "jolly" man, but it seems we're still a little in the Christmas spirit.

I kept telling her, "He's a prophet. Can you say prophet." "Ta-ta" she says.

We'll keep practicing

Christmas!

2012-01-01T11:26:00.000-08:00

Earlier during the Christmas week we celebrated my grandpa's 82nd Birthday! We have a big christmas dinner, sing songs and share stories about our Saviors birth. This family party always gets me ready for Christmas.

On Christmas Eve, after watching Maggie play a beautiful baby Jesus in the nativity at the Timms Christmas party with all of her cousins, some yummy food and gifts, we went to the Marks for a special surprise!

We were going to find out if baby Mark would be a BOY or GIRL!!

I first had a feeling it was going to be yet another boy, but inside I couldn't help but think it was really going to be a girl....

...it's a GIRL!

I couldn't be more happy for them! and E finally have a niece! and a friend for Maggie :)

It was then Jammie time

Christmas day Maggie got spoiled not only by us, but family and grandparents!

It was such a blessing to celebrate Christmas on Sunday were we could attend church and partake of the sacrament. I'm grateful for the birth and life of our Savior and for the blessings I have in my life from Him.

you better watch out!

2011-12-09T09:02:00.000-08:00

you better not cry

you better not pout, I'm tellin' you why

Santa Clause is coming to town!

blue sucker

2011-12-09T08:49:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Maggie was snooping through my bag and found a blue sucker I probably got from the bank. I didn't think she could get it opened, but within 30 seconds the wrapper was off and she was sucking away. I mean why do they make blue suckers!!! Why can't they all be clear... I knew this was going to be a nightmare to take it away, so I allowed her a minute of enjoyment.

Until "mean mom" had to take it away...

For a nice distractions, I showed her how silly she looked with her blue tongue. She loved it!

snowy days

2011-12-03T08:54:00.000-08:00

Seriously, one of my favorite things to do.

jibber jabber

2011-11-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

I just love it every time she says hello. or should I say LO

this old man, he turned..

2011-11-16T20:22:00.000-08:00

27!!

Over the weekend we celebrated Caden's 27th birthday!

We had a yummy Sunday dinner with Dad Carl, a yummy breakfast meal and delicious cake (thanks mal!) with the fam in PG, and then following tradition, we went to Caden's favorite restaurant, Rodizio Grill.

This year the Poulsons came with us! Nolan is just 4 days older than Caden and we had to have the servers sing to them, drums and all! If Caden looks sick in these next pictures, it's because he was. He could hardly taste the food poor guy, but that didn't stop the night of fun!

(thanks iPhone for saving the day for pics)

I'm so lucky to have you as my best friend! I love you sweetie!

Happy Birthday!!!

halloween!

2011-11-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

Now I decided on the "mean" looking pumpkin and Maggie wasn't quite sure what to think of it.

my little mags a year ago...wow she was tiny

This year, my sister gave me the idea to make Maggie's costume. After 200 cotton balls, sticks and sticks of hot glue, I got the cutest little lamb,

but then it happened. The second I put it on her, she started ripping off the cotton balls. Caden knew it was going to happen, I just hoped it wouldn't. Oh well, it was cute for a little while.

Walking to the trunk of treat with her dressed up Orthodox Jew father :) She loved walking around with all the big kids. When people would offer her candy, she just sat there looking at them, like "i really can have that!"

happy halloween!

the difference between men and women..

2011-10-30T15:34:00.001-07:00

Now I've done a post in the past with this same title, but just another funny example that this is so true!

Our cell phone bill usage

Caden's minutes used: 95

Megan's minutes used: 602

Total minutes left from 700 shared: 3

Now this isn't including mobile to mobile minutes either.

I would have used more minutes, but the last 3 days of the bill I had to communicate through text only. It was hard. So the first day that the bill started over, I did my talking and let's just say 100 minutes went by fast. Caden came home and said, "Who did you talk to?!" "Well you know! My dad for 20min, my mom for 20 mins, my sister for 20 mins..... It adds up!!"

Thanks for putting up with me sweets!

family pictures

2011-10-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

smartypants

2011-10-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

For the last few months Maggie has been stealing our pens and scriptures and "doodling", so we got her a scribble board of her own. It was one of her favorite toys. I swear she already prefers her right hand.

She also got a baby doll from our neighbors with a baby bottle. After we opened it and a few minutes of playing with it, maggie took the bottle and started feeding the baby. I didn't even show her how to do that! She will give her baby hugs and tilt her head while she's hugging her.

She'll watch me snap my fingers and she'll try it, but make the clicking sound with her tongue.

It's just these little things that make me look at my baby and think, "You're not so little anymore..."

This week we went to the doctor to get those awful one yr old shots! :( I too decided to get the flu shot with her. I was holding Maggie on my lap and as the nurse gave me the shot I said, "Oh wow, that stings a little." Maggie took one look at me, and then and the nurse and broke down in tears!! I had to assure her that Mommy was okay, I was just getting a shot like her! I didn't know if she was crying cause she knew what was coming, or if she was just looking out for me. It was so sad, but cute.

Height: 30.5 in (88%)

Weight 21 lbs (50%)

She now walks halfway across a room to me (about 10 steps on her own).

and has 4 almost 6 teeth.

She's One!!!

2011-10-04T09:27:00.000-07:00

Our little birthday girl was surprised to see us coming in her room pampering her with breakfast in bed. She was so excited she was bouncing up and down while shoveling handfuls of french toast in her mouth. If was then off to open some new toys (that she picked out).

Later that night we had an all pink birthday bash!

Aunt Mal made this awesome adorable Owl cake that tasted delicious!!

When it came time to dig into the cake Maggie just kept staring at the owl. I'm not sure she liked it looking back at her. To help her along we shoved a hand in the cake for her..... Bad idea! She did not like being dirty. She ate and ate if I fed it to her, but she did not want to touch that owl.

She warmed up to it...

Maggie even took her first few steps on her birthday!

It was so fun to celebrate Maggie's first birthday with all our family there! Thanks for coming!

to my Mags

2011-09-23T10:20:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that I had you almost one year ago. It feels like I just brought you home a month ago. Terrified. Up all night. Constantly reading what a new mother should know. I never wanted to leave your side. It didn't matter that some nights I got 4 hours of sleep or that I didn't shower for the day. I didn't even notice.

Looking back at some of these pictures, I had already forgotten how chubby your cheeks got! But I still didn't forget how happy you have always been. You have been smiling since birth. People will ask me, " Is she always like that?" and every time I tell them, "YES!" I've been scrolling through pictures this morning laughing and crying, thinking about how my little Mags is getting so big!

and next week you'll be one!

You now eat everything mom eats (even big girl milk).

You hum along with me when I put you to bed.

You jump up and down in your crib when we come get you.

You walk side my side with me while I hold your hand.

You always want to color.

You now throw tantrums, it makes me laugh.

You love to dance, clap, and give kisses with your mouth wide open(when you want to)

You're terrified of big animals like cows and horses and fake decorations (halloween stuff)

You absolutely love books! and you have to turn the pages!

You laugh after you hear a group of people laughing. You must think it's for you, but it's usually not and then it makes everyone laugh again. (especially embarrassing at church)

Just before your naps and bedtime, I still swaddle you and cuddle with you for a few minutes. I'm glad you still let me, cause it's probably more for me then it is for you.

It's been so exciting watching you grow and figure things out.

I love you so much Maggie Ro!

note to self

2011-09-13T18:46:00.000-07:00

Never give her a bath a few hours before spaghetti night.

love this!

2011-09-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

Just a few minutes ago, I walked by Maggie's room while she was sleeping and saw this. Ohh I just wanted to squeeze her! It was totally worth a picture, even if it did wake her up...

cooped up

2011-09-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday I was being a boring mom cleaning up the house, doing laundry and things like that, when I come around the corner and find this little one longing to be outside. Our neighbor girls were all outside playing on their bikes giggling and playing and Maggie kept trying to "talk" to them. Of course I put her shoes on and we immediately went outside. She was giggling and running (with my hands) after the girls.

camping

2011-08-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

This last weekend we went camping with my fam here in Mount Pleasant. A family in our ward owns a beautiful campground they let us stay at for the weekend. Even though we survived a rainstorm the first night, wasps in every direction, a four wheeler disaster and a possible bear sighting all week, we didn't want to leave with all the fun we were having.

Playing SkipBo

Playing farkle

We're a game playing family, if you can't tell... Here's Caden playing curses. He had to keep his hands in fist at all times, air guitar every time he talked and had to speak in a falsetto voice. Way to GO!

a sick day and a box

2011-08-22T10:01:00.001-07:00

Last week Maggie got sick with her first fever ever. (she ended up with roseola) It was so sad to see her like that. She wasn't her normal all over the place self, so we made a little lazy fun for her. We turned her diaper box into a taxi service. I would haul her everywhere I went. She loved it!

infatuated

2011-08-04T13:53:00.000-07:00

I am infatuated with this little one. It's completely obvious.

Now all of these pictures might look the same to you, but with each one I

Ooo and Aahh at her.

fun in the sun

2011-08-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

We've had so much fun this summer enjoying the hot sun and pool trips with family.

Maggie's latest trip to the pool was with the beehives in our ward. She had so much fun with them! She would randomly squeal, splash and giggle when they were around. She also started slipping, hands first, and would slide onto her belly on the ceramic floor of the shallow end. (like a slip and slide) it was so funny! i wish i got it on video. Everything seems twice as fun when you have a little one that finds joy in everything!

my shadow

2011-07-22T14:35:00.000-07:00

Now that Maggie is pulling herself up everywhere, including places where she doesn't necessarily pull her self up, (the fridge, oven) she has become

my little shadow.

If I'm in the kitchen, I know 3 seconds behind me is my Maggie. Once I sit down on the couch, Maggie beats me to my seat. If I move something up a shelf, somehow... she has it.

Lately Maggie has been quite the monkey. She'll pucker her lips and Ooo Ooo all day.

I can't believe that in less than a week, we will have ourselves a little 10 month old. Even though I look back and think I have nursed this girl almost 1500 times and changed almost 1400 diapers, it feels like I just brought her home a month ago. Please don't grow up way too fast my Mags. Stay my shadow forever.

seattle

2011-07-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

***WARNING- PICTURE OVERLOAD***

For the last 10 days Caden, Maggie and I, with my family loaded up in 2 cars and took a 15+ hr car ride to Washington state! My uncle Steve has a beautiful lake house there that we love to visit. The trip was full of ups and downs (our car breaking down twice!!!!), but we had the time of our lives!

We bought a City pass to Seattle so we were able to go the the Space needle, the Aquarium, Science Center, Experience Music Project, and a harbor tour (and the zoo or flight museum which we ran out of time for). We also hiked through a rain forest and went to the beach.

the fam at Gig harbor

Maggie at the EMP

We would get a lot of stares from people when we were out and about. Probably wondering how we all relate. We are all tall and blonde and my mom has the mention sometimes, " Yes, I have 6 kids"

Paige and Maggie at Pikes Market Place

Caden and I celebrated our 4 year anniversary on our trip. It was really fun because we actually spent our honeymoon in Seattle! I am the luckiest women to be married to this man. It has been the best 4 years of my life so far!

Caden and I at the Space needle 4 years ago...

That night we were able to sneak away for a night out together to celebrate while we had 10 babysitters with Mags.

But one of the best things to do there was just relax in the beautiful house. We played games, watched movies, kayaked, read, napped, made bracelets, and even made s'mores on the stove.

Isn't this cool!!!

i slowed down my shutter speed on my camera and we were able to get some pretty sweet pictures!

We had so much fun in the WA state, but it's good to be back!

the month of june

2011-07-02T13:10:00.000-07:00

June was quite the busy month!

Caden has been to a lot of training throughout the month of June. Maggie and I even got to go to one and spend the night.

I then had a shower for my friend Carrie and her soon to be little guy!

It was so fun to see high school friends

Then I had the time of my life at girls camp last week. thanks to my mom watching mags for me, i was able to go up during each day (but came home morning and night to nurse)

Then we spent some wind down time at the drive inn theater in Mount Pleasant.

As soon as it started she just kept waving her arms up and down and yelling. She liked it a little too much we had to close our windows so our neighbors couldn't here her cute squeals.

and also Maggie is also officially 9 months

Weight: 19.19 lbs (57%)

Height: 27.5 in (47%)

She is pulling herself up onto everything and getting the scrapes and bruises to prove it.

and something else i just have to share

a few weeks ago i was at my moms house and a friend of my brother's kept saying, "She's doing the bug face again!" of course i asked what he meant when he came in to show me this.

I'll have to admit.... he's right. it sure made me laugh!!!

she's taken over

2011-06-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

Maggie has taken over...

the kitchen

the doorways

the bathroom

the ottoman (which was once filled with dvd's)

and now my living room!

not only has she taken over, but now my stuff has got to go. For the first few days I kept telling her, "that's mommy's" "that's not for maggie", but after 10 times re-stacking books...she won. She is crawling everywhere! and fast! I also have to vacuum and sweep the floor daily if I don't want to fish stuff out of her mouth. Oh Maggie! what will we do with you.

if planted it will grow

2011-06-18T19:30:00.000-07:00

Well I started a garden. It's the first time in my life I have planted something. I was so nervous to do this. I googled for probably a good 2 hours about container gardening before buying our plants. I probably asked the stupidest questions to the "plant lady".

While Caden and I were potting our plants he mentioned that some might not turn out or grow, but it's worth trying. I then told him to have a little faith! I had to remind him that "faith is like a little seed. if planted it will grow!"

(I'm also doing this for my young women's project)

We planted tomatoes, green peppers, jalapenos, green onions, radishes and a geranium. It's been so fun to watch them grow. They have really taken off, except the green peppers that is...

and i think Maggie is enjoying the extra time out in the sun as I garden

GOING PRIVATE!

2011-06-06T07:09:00.000-07:00

every time i have shown Caden our blog in the last 2 years he has asked me, " is it private yet?" "well, um, no. i want all to see just how adorable miss mags is!", i think. Now i suppose i should stop being naive about psycho's so......today's the day. i guess it's time.

Please leave a comment with your email.

i would love to keep hearing from you! your comments truly make my day!

now as my husband always says to his students,

" have the best day of your entire life!"

picnic in the park

2011-06-02T19:37:00.000-07:00

Even though it was a bit chilly for a picnic in the park last week, we couldn't resist loading maggie and a sandwich in the jeep for a little ride. i'm so lucky to have these two.

my 8 month old

2011-05-31T13:17:00.000-07:00

She sings....loud

She has 2 teeth

She crawls a little bit at a time

Sleeping 11hrs at night

Loves to eat

Reaches for everything mommy has

Scares easily

Plays with my hair

Sits in shopping carts like a big girl

Loves to go on walks

memorial day

2011-05-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to Salina to visit with Carl and go to Roene's grave. It was the first time we brought Maggie there. It was such a beautiful day!

and while the boys were changing the oil in the car, we had play time on the lawn.

Then we spent the rest of the weekend in PG celebrating mom's birthday and a day off with the fam. Maggie experience her first time in a movie theatre. She surprisingly did well. For the first 20 min she just sat and stared at the big screen and then fell asleep for the last 2 hours (with the help of me covering her ears).

I told Asher we celebrate memorial day to remember those that have died and soldiers. He asked me what soldiers are. " They're boys and girls who fight to keep us safe where we live" Thank you for those soldiers fighting to keep us safe!

makeover

2011-05-24T09:01:00.000-07:00

Before:

After: (a foot of hair)

I've been wanting to do this for a while now and I was so excited for days! Thanks cas! I love love love it!

a night out

2011-05-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was a much needed night out with our good pals the Poulson's!

Brielle and Maggie are just 2 days apart! It was so fun watching them play together. They sure did get a lot of attention and comments about their "cuteness" while we were out.

Nolan and Caden are only 4 days apart! Our girls are bound to be best friends. Wouldn't you say they both look just like their daddy's??

Then it was off for our first bowling trip (with mags that is). The girls were mesmerized!

It's nice to have another mom that has a baby the same age as yours so when your kid is fussy they know how you feel. Thanks Jani!

It was a late night in jammies for this little one.

Thanks for the fun night out guys!

rainy days

2011-05-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

It's crazy how fast an hour can go by on a

rainy day snuggled on a bed.

yoga anyone?

2011-05-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

Recently Maggie has quite the moves! She could be a yoga instructor.

Downward Dog

she does this all on her own. i don't put her like that.

Plank

Cobra

Table Top

All that work and the rolls are still there!!

I love her little tooth!

i got my new lens (50mm) today for mother's day and i absolutely love it, if you can't tell. Now i just need to learn how to work it to the fullest! Trial and error :)

goldilocks

2011-05-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

Well, we did it! We accomplished 60 miles together on the Goldilocks bike ride!

It was a beautiful day full of ups and downs. Tires blowing out, headwinds, cramps, sunburns, sore necks and (most of all for me) being away from Mags for the longest ever (9 hrs!!). But it felt so good after 4 hours of riding, dancing while biking, and more than 3000 calories burned to arrive at the finish line!! So glad I had my mom and sistas there to celebrate. Couldn't have done it without you!!!!!!!

my mothers

2011-05-06T08:23:00.000-07:00

With mother's day coming up in a few days I've been thinking a lot about my mothers.

My mom has always been a wonderful mom! She is, to me, the ideal mom. Now I could go on and on about my mom, but here are a few things I love about her.

I never realized how much my mom actually did until I became a wife and a mother myself. My mom was so good to have dinner for our family, clean the kitchen, pick up after our silly messes, do the laundry, take out the trash, use her money to give to us for wants etc etc. It's hard to always have to dishes done and know what to fix for dinner. Seems simple, right?? harder than it looks, but she did it!

I'm grateful for my mom's testimony. She is always willing to share it in letters or notes. It's exciting talking to my mom about the scriptures or what we know to be true. I loved having my mom in Young Women's a few times while growing up to see her example. She truly did strive to bring our family together for prayer or scripture study. I could tell it was important to her.

Over the last few years I feel like I have become closer to my mom. She is more than my mother. She is my best friend. It's been hard being away from her. Now I know we are only an hour and 20 minutes away, but I wish we were neighbors. I love how she gets excited when we come to visit. I hate driving home after being with my family. I'm grateful to have my own little family with Caden and Mags, don't get me wrong, but there is just something about being close to your mom.

I know she loves me when she drives to our house just to visit for a few hours, and by slowing down on our bike ride to be close to me during a steep hill, by opening up her day to do my hair and visit when I come down, by giving me advice and assuring me I'm being a good mother.

I love you Mom!

Four years ago on May 9 I lost my second mother. I only met Roene a handful of times before she past away suddenly a few months before our wedding, but I know she would have been more like my second mother than a "mother-in-law". I have heard countless stories from Caden and family about how wonderful she was, but I want to share just a few of the memories I have of her that describe the type of mother she was and would have been to me.

A few days after Caden and I got engaged, she was so excited! She thanked me for saying yes to him (which made me laugh), and we started talking about wedding plans. She wanted me to try on her wedding dress. Even though it was hitting me six inches above the floor, she was thrilled with excitement to see me in it. "Carl! Carl! do you see her! I can't believe I was that skinny. It looks so pretty!! Carl, do you see?" She then told me things about her life and advice to a happy marriage.

One night, Caden and I were coming home from a weekend in St. George right after our proposal. We got to his house at probably 2 am, and there was Roene in her teal nightgown waiting up for us, thankful we were home safe.

Around easter time I remember her giving me an easter basket, lotion and earrings. "I'm so excited to have a girl to buy stuff for!" she told me. (Caden being an only child)

I loved the way she would call Caden everyday, literally EVERYday, when we were at snow college. I just know that she would have treated me like a daughter and would have called almost EVERYday.

She loved to be silly and make people happy. I could tell one day as I came to visit Caden. She was giggling and laughing with her sisters making christmas chocolates. She had a laugh that was contagious.

She was so excited to have grandkids. She told me she wanted a dozen!

I wish she was here to see Maggie. I wonder what she would do, what she would say, how things would be different, but I'm grateful for her love and example for the short time I knew her.

I'm so lucky to have wonderful mothers! I hope I can be a good mother just like they are.

easter

2011-04-26T18:13:00.001-07:00

just some stuff

2011-04-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

Now that maggie can sit up in the bathtub, she loves it even more!

i just can't get enough of that smile

i love how she smiles with her mouth open

i'm pretty sure almost everyone that sees you for the first time has to comment on

those cheeks.

If you can't tell, i'm a little obsessed over this little one

Mom is:

trying to blog more because i kept beating myself up about not journaling as often, so i figured i'll blog more and put them into books each year.

getting ready for the 80 (maybe 60?) mile bike ride in 2 weeks.

trying to coupon

always googling things about photography, container gardening, baby milestones and coupons

officially making my own whole wheat bread

enjoying young women's and looking forward to camp

Dad is:

wrapping up the school year and just finishing up D&C and church history

wanting an iPhone

busy with bishopric meetings and visits

is desperately waiting for the 5 season of Psych to come to netflix

loving his favorite time of the year for candy

Maggie is:

something that i love lately is maggie's "quiet time". sometimes i will put her down for a nap and she doesn't actually sleep. she will just play with her hands, play with her feet or blanket and just be content in her crib for an hour. i'll go in and check on her or to put the pacifier in her mouth. She'll just smile at me, i walk back out and she goes on playing. She is so content and such a happy baby!

and just incase you were wondering, the hair growing is coming along....

snowing with a chance of running

2011-04-10T19:25:00.000-07:00

"Spring" Run Off & t-shirt: 18 dollars

a warmer jacket: 10 dollars

training: 9 hours

sprinting across the finish line in the freezing snowy weather: priceless

6 months

2011-04-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

Weight: 17.6 lbs (77%)

Height: 26.5 (72%)

This little one is all over the place!

She's sitting, she's rolling, she's scooting, she's bouncing

She loves her veggies

She's a little attached to mom

She loves to be outside

She will wake up around 530-630 in the morning, just to cuddle and sleep in our bed for an additional hour or two. (a habit i love, but that needs to be broken)

Everything goes in her mouth

Loves to say nananana

Wakes up with a smile

These last 6 months have gone by so fast! I love to watch her grow and figure out new things. We are so lucky to have Maggie! We don't know what we did without her. Love you Maggie girl!!

older and wiser

2011-04-05T10:02:00.000-07:00

Another birthday came and went. I am 23!

Sunday morning, I woke up with Caden by my side and Maggie in my arms (who came in the bed an hour earlier). They were still both asleep and I was just thinking how lucky I am to have both of them. I wanted Maggie to wake up and share my birthday with me, so I started tickling and kissing her face (rude I know). She started making faces and whining a bit cause she wasn't ready to wake up, so I stopped. A few minutes later so opened her eyes and smiled at me. That is what I was waiting for! The best birthday present of the day. I then enjoyed breakfast in bed from my wonderful husband. We then watched conference, which I've always loved being around my birthday.

This is how I got to enjoyed conference. Jealous??

We then went over to my parents for a birthday celebration.

Here is Asher modeling one of my new shirts. Doesn't he look cute!

and this awesome Garmin watch my fam got me for working out I'm so excited about!

My mom spoiled me by making this yummy ice cream cake (my favorite!)

and i was so lucky to share my birthday with my little sister Paige who will be 16 in a few days.

I'm lucky to have such a wonderful family. There is no one else I'd rather spend my birthday with.

also, during conference President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said some things that inspired me to post this.

“With so many social media resources and the multitude of more or less useful gadgets at our disposable, sharing the good news of the gospel is easier and the effects more far reaching than ever before…. My dear young friends, perhaps the Lords encouragement to open our mouths might today include use your hands to blog and text message the gospel to all the world… With the blessings of modern technology we an express gratitude and joy about God’s great plan for his children in a way that can be heard not only around our work place, but around the world. Sometimes a single phrase of testimony can set events in motion that effect someone’s life for eternity."

While listening to President Uchtdorf’s talk, I knew I wanted to take the opportunity to bear my testimony to “all the world” that I have a testimony that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the true church. I know that President Thomas S. Monson is a prophet called by our Heavenly Father to guide us in making right choices in our life. I know that through prayer Heavenly Father can give me comfort, peace and love. I know that the Book of Mormon is true and that by sincerely studying and applying the principles I can learn what is expected of me. In this world today Satan is trying to destroy marriages, and eternal families who are sealed in the temple, but I know that if we are studying the scriptures and praying with our spouses that Satan will not have power to break that sealing, because with our Heavenly Father in our relationships, we will not fail. I know there is always forgiveness and mercy because of the Atonement that our Savior performed, because he loves us. The gospel can bring happiness if we obey all the commandments. This I know, in the name of Jesus Christ.

(share your testimony for "all the world")

family vacation

2011-04-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

This week was Caden's spring break, so we took advantage of this time off and headed for St. George! My grandparents have a trailer there (thanks Nana & Papa!), which is right next to all the fun things to do.

Mags did good for her longest car ride yet,

(which she enjoyed if mom was back there with her)

The weather was amazing! It was nice not to worry about socks, sweaters and a blanket. We did a lot of relaxing,

swimming,

eating out, shopping,

and hiking!

Maggie was only mad that we had to stop and take a picture. She loved that hike so much, she was kicking her bare feet the whole time in the bjorn. Now I know what we'll be doing lots this summer. Now if it will just get here and stay!

motivation

2011-03-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

Where is it??

This is something I am currently lacking.

I'm supposed to run a 10k (6.2 miles) in 2 weeks.

That should get me motivated right?

Now for some people that would be no big deal, but when I run outside I should feel like this,

When I really feel like this,

What was I thinking! and then after try and train for an 80 mile bike ride 2 months after that?!? Every time before I go on a run, I get a little nervous. I don't know why. I think to myself, "I'm going to make it 3 miles today". I come home and think, "That had to forsure be 3 miles. I'm so tired!", but when I track it in my car afterwards it was only 2 or 2.5.?? Arg! It's now been a week since I've ran (sickness and weather) and I'm now lacking the motivation to get out there. Now I'm doing this not only to get back in shape and drop my baby weight, and not only because it was a new years goal, but to feel good about myself! that should be enough for motivation right?!

Dear Grandpa,

2011-03-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed my first taste of sugar yesterday.

I loved sucking on that Fun Dip stick for a few seconds before mom walked in and got mad at you.

Love, Maggie

(I have my eye on you DAD!!!)

real food! well sort of

2011-03-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

First few bites.

Does she like it??

ya she does!

will she like the avocado??

ya she will!

We love all of these new adventures with Mags!

being creative?

2011-03-09T16:47:00.000-08:00

So all I have done the last 2 days is crochet. I'm stretching myself. I just kind of make up these patterns so it's all about trial and error, but luckily they turned out pretty good. My poor model is getting sick of me. What will be next...

wrist warmers

leg warmers

headbands galore

i love the felt ones in the top left corner! I'll definitely make more of those. My wonderful sis Cas taught me how to make those adorable fabric flowers on the right and today I sat in front of the computer watching a girl on Youtube crocheting the flowers.

photo shoot

2011-03-01T14:11:00.000-08:00

[We decided to do our own little photo shoot today]

This little one is officially 5 months old as of yesterday

busy man

2011-02-23T19:37:00.000-08:00

Daddy is a busy man.

He is such a wonderful seminary teacher! There is always a lot of talk in this house about lesson plans, students, and scriptures. Not only does he spend all day in the scriptures at work, but he comes home and reads them on his own and then again with me. I'm telling you, scripture genius here (he might say otherwise). I love this man!

But there is always love time for Mommy and Maggie!

Also recently Caden was called into the bishopric. The call was a surprise to both of us. I'll have to get used to being a single church wife sitting alone. I'm so proud of him and his dedication. He's such a wonderful example to me. Love him!

yum...Granola

2011-02-17T11:34:00.000-08:00

I made this yummy granola today and I just have to share the recipe. I have already eaten way too much!!

4C old fashioned oats

1C rice krispies

1/2 C almonds

1/4 C flax seed

1/2 C brown sugar

*mix in bowl*

6T. oil

1/2 C honey

2T vanilla

*Boil for 1 min and pour over mixture, stir*

* Spray cookie sheet and flatten mixture on pan

*Bake at 300 for 30 min

Break into chunks when still warm or let cool completely and cut into bars

sprinkle salt on top for added flavor and YUM!

It's so easy and so yummy! you can switch up the recipe too however you want. In this batch i used less vanilla and added cinnamon. I also put in more sliced almonds and added pecans. You could even add maple syrup. Don't have flax seed no worries, add sunflower seeds or not. add raisin's, craisin's or chocolate chips after baking. It's that easy and I'll say it again... yummy!

(Thanks Kate for the awesome recipe!)

our love day

2011-02-15T20:22:00.000-08:00

It first started out with some play time in the crib.

(okay is it wrong of me that i just have the urge to squeeze her. i could just eat her cheeks she's so cute!)

Then we did pink pedicures.

Enjoyed a sugar cookie (from the day before).

Surprised dad at work with a balloon and candy and I got surprised with these.

Cooked a romantic pasta dinner

And then had cuddle time

Happy Valentine's Day!

i love screamin deals

2011-02-08T08:35:00.000-08:00

So a few weeks ago, I found this lush gorgeous coat at Baby Gap for $10.18!! I had to have it!! How could you not at that price! She can barely put her arms down and gets frustrated because she can't suck on her fist, but hey, at least she looks adorable!

She will soon outgrow it in a month or two, but we'll get some good times out of it.

And then this was the scowl I got after she was done taking pictures.

motherhood

2011-01-26T07:44:00.000-08:00

welcome to motherhood

it's the start of a new chapter for your family.

you'll have your baby in your arms and think,

just a few days ago you were inside of me.

this world will be different than your moms

but you'll want to ask her about everything

and everything you used to do with two hands

you'll now do with one.

you'll take a million photos of the same thing,

and want to show them to everyone.

sometimes you'll beg for silence.

but then you'll worry when it's quiet.

sometimes you will ask, "what did i do?"

but more times you'll think, "wow!, look what i've done!"

and you will wonder if there is a new mom out there

going through the exact same thing.

-the pampers commercial that made me cry

"Mothers, cherish that role that is so uniquely yours and for which heaven itself sends angels to watch over you and your little ones. Yours is the work of salvation, and therefore you will be magnified, compensated, made more than you are, better than you are, and better than you have ever been....May I say to mothers collectively, in the name of the Lord, you are magnificent. You are doing terrifically well. The very fact that you have been given such a responsibility is everlasting evidence of the trust your Father in Heaven has in you. He is blessing you and He will bless you, even—no, especially—when your days and your nights may be the most challenging. Rely on Him. Rely on Him heavily. Rely on Him forever. And “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope.”-Jeffrey R Holland

toyland

2011-01-20T17:34:00.000-08:00

This was our first experience in the toy section at the store. Caden and I were actually going to the games to buy Scrabble when I heard Maggie giggle. She was staring at this cute baby doll bouncing. She laughed and laughed!! We finally turned on the camera after almost 3 minutes of laughing so it turned from a giggle to a chuckle. (We'll be on the ball next time). It was so cute! I wanted to buy it for her, but I guess if I gave in every time she laughed at something, we would be in big trouble.

(don't mind my fake laugh. it usually makes her laugh too)

a brand new year

2011-01-11T11:46:00.000-08:00

What?!?

It's a new year already!

and my goal is what??

That's right! We set our new year goals. 2010 was great! We got the job of our dreams, had a big move and got the love of our lives, and we are excited for a brand new year together!

and yes, even Maggie has some goals.

Now, just to share. I LOVE this little bug!!

and also, look at these cute pillows my sis Cas made for me after my failed efforts. I love them! thanks Cas

biased.

2010-12-29T09:16:00.000-08:00

I have the cutest kid in the world

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-28T09:29:00.001-08:00

Christmas is so much fun when you can share it with someone little. I felt so blessed this holiday season to have a warm home, my husband's job, loving family and friends, and the gospel. I love this special time to celebrate our Savior and his birth.

Because this was my parent's off year for Christmas, we celebrated Christmas on the Sunday before with them. We did the pj tradition and opened a few gifts. Mom and Dad got us these awesome slippers. We loved 'em!

This year we spent Christmas with Grandpa Carl at our house. It was so fun to celebrate Maggie's first Christmas at home. We opened our pj's, read Luke 2, made yummy popcorn and watched a movie.We made a feast on Christmas eve, a hardy christmas breakfast and appetizers for lunch. Maggie laughed and laughed at Grandpa Carl, it was so cute!

Mags in her cute christmas pj's

(this was my latest project for Christmas. Fingerless gloves. And they were so much easier than I thought they'd be)

a cold winter wonderland

2010-12-22T09:46:00.000-08:00

All I have to say is that it snowed here Monday night.... A LOT!

They even cancelled school after a few hours when they realized the snow was still coming down so Caden came home!

But to top it all off the power was out for 15 hours!!!!

Good thing it's a fridge outside.

My little bug was not happy that it was 65 degrees in our house all day! We did a lot of cuddling and layering, but we survived. I was about to give her a warm bath at around 6pm with candles and a lantern when it happened... light!! Hallelujah!

Blessing Day

2010-12-07T15:33:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday we were excited to bless our sweet Maggie. I was really nervous that she would have a blow out right before on her blessing dress, but she held out! We are so grateful for the priesthood and that Caden could give our baby this blessing. She was happy, awake and didn't make a peep throughout the blessing. I told him that after he blessed her, he better hold her up high to show her off. He sure did and she was a doll. She was wide awake just staring at everyone. It was perfect and it was such a beautiful blesssing.

meet maggie

2010-11-30T20:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had Maggie's 8 week check up (at 9 weeks though).

Everything went great! She is now...

10lbs - 37%

23 inches- 74%

She's getting so big!

She is holding her head up on her own

She started smiling at us 2 weeks ago and we can't get enough of it!

She grunts when she's frustrated

She loves her swing

She snores in her sleep

She likes to sleep in my arms at night

She wakes up just once in the night

She gets hiccups probably 5 times a day (not exaggerating)

She has a blow out at least once a day (again, no exaggeration)

She follows me with her eyes around the room

She scowls randomly for no reason

She'll yell out just to say hi

She fights sleep, but once she's out... she's out

When you wake her up, just know she'll be stretching for the next 5 minutes

the birthday boy

2010-11-14T19:40:00.000-08:00

26 reasons why i love you

1 .you are an amazing seminary teacher

2. our daughter looks just like you

3. you make me laugh when you do your "scary" voice

4.you laugh before you tell me a funny story or thought

5. you do yoga with me just to be with me

6. you let me be a stay at home mom

7. you look sexy in your suit everyday

8. you gave me maggie

9. your kisses when you come home

10. you have the sweetest smile and cutest laugh

11. cuddling next to you when we watch Xfiles

12. you think i love my feet tickled

13. your singing in the car

14. your long hugs

15. your yummy steak or meatloaf cooking

16. you teach me about the scriptures

17. you make me laugh with your funny dancing

18. you play games with me

19. you compliment my cooking

20. you let me tease your love for cars and apple

21. you work hard at your job

22. you never say anything bad about someone

23. you take me on dates

24. you're the best father

25. you're my perfect husband

26. you're my best friend

i love you!

happy birthday last thursday

remedies

2010-11-09T08:15:00.000-08:00

I think we got lucky. Maggie is such a good baby! During the day she is very consistent with a 3 hr schedule. At 3 weeks she started sleeping 5 hours stretches at night. She loves her bath time and is content to play on the floor while i fit some laundry in.

Now i found out that i'm a mom who doesn't like when my baby cries. I just always want to "fix" the problem. If she's crying, I want to pick her up, wrap her tight and cuddle with her. If she fusses for a few minutes in her crib at night, i bring her to bed with me. If she has the hiccups, i want to cure them with Gripe water. Caden warns me, "she's fine. she can cry for a little bit" If i see her crying with Caden or anyone else, i want to pick her up and "fix" it.

Now i know she's my only one and i can spoil her, but i know i need to be careful because one day i might not be able to back out of that. She'll soon expect it.

But Maggie, since birth, has just had a struggle with tummy issues. She occasionally gets painful gas or bubbles that are hard to get out. I hate to see her in pain like that. After a few weeks my doctor recommended Mylicon drops and my sister recommended Gripe water. The drops helped her, but a lactation specialist suggested it may be yeast causing the gas. I wasn't sure if this was the cause, but i thought if it doesn't hurt her, why not try.

Once a day for about 3 days we use gentian violet before breastfeeding. We put a small amount on a Qtip and put it in her mouth. The funny thing is, it's a deep dark purple that will stain her mouth for days.

The morning after and it's still bright purple

I sent my sisters a picture message saying, " I told Maggie not to suck on the purple marker, but she didn't listen." it made them think twice. Cassie calls, "Megan! Did she really suck on a marker! Oh wait is it that stuff? nevermind it just clicked"

It looks like purple lipstick

I'm 6 weeks old today!!

We won't take you out in public for a few days, but you're still a cute one my Mags!

lullaby and goodnight

2010-11-08T09:44:00.000-08:00

last little bit

2010-11-03T09:31:00.000-07:00

Well yesterday we soaked up our last little bit of sunshine. It felt so good we walked around the neighborhoods and ending up visiting dad at the seminary after school hours. We're glad we got a few days with you mr. sun. We'll miss you.

i love having her close to my chest. it's the best when you can feel their breathing and their warm little body right next to you.

oh that wore me out! time for a nap

halloween!

2010-11-03T09:07:00.000-07:00

My little 5 week old

Maggie loves the prelude music at church. She will just lay on my lap and stare at the lights on the ceiling. It is so fun to dress up a little girl for church.

When it was just Caden and my first few years of marriage, we didn't really celebrate the little holidays. We missed out on doing Easter baskets for each other or dying our food green for St. Patty's, doing april fool's jokes or carving pumpkins! so I had a goal at the beginning of the year that i would celebrate every holiday and not let the little things go by. So here we are doing the "little things"

Maggie's first Halloween

Since we got our pumpkins Caden kept asking me to make Dinner in a Pumpkin. I guess he had had it before and wanted it again. So being in the Halloween spirit, I tried it.

It turned out pretty good!

new mommy life

2010-10-22T16:08:00.000-07:00

You know your life has changed when:

1. it's 5 pm when you finally shower and that's normal.

2. you start burping your husbands back when he asks for a back scratch.

3. the funniest thing that's happened all week is when your daughter poops in

your husbands hand during a diaper change.

4. you realize you are now attached to the

soap opera "One life to live"

5. Going to Wal-mart is planned for days

6. you find wet diapers in different rooms you forgot to throw away

7. we now refer to each other as mom and dad

8. i know that Save by the Bell is on at 6 am

9. my left arm has been so sore for weeks from holding my baby

10. all i think about is how much i love my little girl

i wouldn't trade it all for

the world!

Maggie loves the dryer when she has a tummy ache. Thanks for the idea Grandma :)

families are the best!

2010-10-18T14:11:00.001-07:00

I'm so lucky to have a family that loves the new addition to our family

her new best friends!

The excited Aunts

(missing uncles Weston and Brady)

and the Proud Grandparents

Maggie Roene, you are named after an amazing woman! We miss you Grandma Ro. Wish you were here. We love you!

maggie roene

2010-10-07T10:35:00.000-07:00

September 28, 2010

6:53 pm

7 lbs 1 oz

19 inches

the arrival

2010-10-07T09:56:00.000-07:00

We were checked into the hospital on Monday night at 7pm. I was 6 days overdue and was only dilated to a 1+, so that night they were going to give me cervidel to hopefully speed up the process. The whole night nothing happened. No contractions. A nurse came in at 7 am and repositioned the cervidal. That got things going! A few hours later they gave me pitocin and a few hours after that I got my epideral. I got what they call a walking epideral. It's about 60% of the effect of a full epideral, so I was still able to walk around (with help), move my legs and best of all feel just enough of all the labor because I wasn't completely numb. I absolutely loved that! It was moving slowly but surely. It was abut 5:30 pm and the nurse told me I was around a 5+. We were just waiting for the doctor to show up so he could break my water and hopefully speed things up. When he came in just after 6 he checked me. "Oh ya, we're ready to go!" I thought he meant okay to break the water, but in just over a half hour I went from a 5+ to ready to push! It hit me! This baby was coming!! It felt like it went so fast! When they were ready I sat up, told them when I was contracting and 15 min later and a few pushes she was on my chest. The feeling was overwhelming. My adrenaline was pumping, I was crying, and she just sat there looking at me with her eyes wide open.

I always wanted her by me, so when the nurse took her for a few hours so I could get some sleep that first night, it made me nervous. I was always half asleep. I even heard a baby cry, called my nurse in and said, "I'm just being a paranoid mother, but is that my baby crying?" she let me know, "oh no, you're baby is sound asleep!"

Caden was such a support through this process! I was even surprised he cut the cord and watched some of the labor. ( this is a guy who would easily faint) She came out looking just like daddy!

So content...

She was rooting right after labor! That night she found her thumb. She's tried since, but hasn't been successful. Maybe aunt Mal just showed her that night.

We couldn't be happier!

We love you Maggie!

life around the house

2010-10-06T18:07:00.001-07:00

Well of course sometime this week we had to get little Mags dressed up and take some cute pictures.

this is just the start of more to come i'm sure of it!

She wasn't to fond of the naked pics -notice the scowl

I can't get enough of these eyes. One of the best things about being her Mom is when i talk to her she finds my face and does her slow blinking stare at me. I know she can recognize my voice and knows that i am close.

She loved her first bath, until it came time to coming out.

Poor Mags had to be under lights for a few days. It was hard cause all she wanted to do was be held. Thank goodness we had a portable wand with lights to hold her with. but yay! no more pricks on the heel everyday!!

I absolutely love this picture! I think Maggie looks just like her daddy. She has his nose, his lips, his face. i love it! He has been wonderful to us! I think I hear 10 times a day, "What can I do for you?" If i ask for something he is immediately up helping before I can finish. He's very cautious and careful. Sometimes he has the magic touch if she's crying. It's so fun to watch them together. She loves her daddy daughter time.

Just relaxin...

I couldn't have done it without grandma this week. She helped me physically by cooking, cleaning and much more, mentally, when i was running on one hour of sleep and emotionally with my pregnancy hormones still racing. Thank you Mom. I love you!

....

2010-09-21T19:27:00.001-07:00

Her due date came and went.... hello 40 weeks....

yes i am trying everything to induce labor (i would prefer starting my own contractions then drugs, but what do ya do) .... and yes i am having a hard time finding a comfy spot to sit, stand or lay... and yes we are getting anxious... but so excited!!! I'll miss this.

valden carl

2010-09-21T12:01:00.001-07:00

Grandpa Anderson died September 20, 2010. We will miss you!

I remember when I first met Grandpa Anderson, he was so eager to tell me of the full life he lived. He shared stories and letters from the war and told about his success of his thriving business adventures and farm. Caden told me he was always working from sun up to sun down and was actively working until he was at least 88! The stories Caden would tell me made me laugh too. You could tell he was quite a character.

" I've lived a good 96 years. Every last one of 'em" he would say. Sometimes he would follow it with, "If only I could have kept Bunny with me a little longer" He is now with his sweet wife. You could tell he dearly missed her.

He would always take my hand and tell Caden, "You take care of her!" On one occasion, he wrote Caden a 20 dollar check and told him to take me out on a nice date.

I hope I can live so long with my sweetheart and family and cherish everyday.

SURPRISE!!

2010-09-15T09:26:00.000-07:00

...and you thought a baby was coming today....me too. but i have to remember we're on a roller coaster that just keeps going.

So i went in yesterday, the day before the scheduled c-section, and right when starting the ultrasound the technician tells me, "Um...she's head down!"......WHAT!?

This little stinker waited after a month of stress, tests and procedures to just turn on her own at 39 weeks! The day before she was supposed to come!! i was shocked, and thrilled! the cord is still around her neck, so we're keeping our eye on her, but everything should be okay. So now what?? We'll plan on everything working the good ole fashioned way!

I'm looking forward to now the wonderful labor pains,the intense pushing, my husbands coaching, having her skin to skin and yes even the anticipation of her arrival once again. Heavenly Father truly knows best and answered our prayers. Thanks to all for your support and love!

so now we wait.

we're on a roller coaster!

2010-09-10T09:50:00.000-07:00

As many of you know our baby has been breech the whole pregnancy. I've been trying everything I could to get her to flip. I've been on my hands and knees, going swimming and even doing head stands against the couch. I wanted to try and avoid a c-section so my doctor recommended an ECV or aversion. Basically what would happen is this: he would send me up north where I would have a very detailed ultrasound, a non-stress test, they would then give me an IV and muscle relaxer. They would then attempt to move the baby from the outside. Literally grab her head and feet and turn her to be head down. That would be followed by another ultrasound and a non-stress test. The night before the procedure I was really nervous! I heard it was very painful, but then again so was the though of a c-section. I wanted that chance to experience that sacred opportunity of going through labor, feeling those emotions and working for my baby. I knew I just wanted to try this.

Well after the first ultrasound the doctor thought the umbilical cord might be around her neck and she was measuring 2 1/2 weeks behind our due date which made him nervous. He didn't want any risks. He said the only option was to schedule a c-section at 39 weeks (2 weeks). I started mentally preparing myself for having a c-section and was looking forward to seeing our baby so soon! I had to have bi-weekly NST's and ultrasounds and at the following two ultrasounds the cord wasn't around her neck!! My doctor on Tuesday told me if I wanted to I could try for the aversion again. I didn't even think that was an option! I was overwhelmed and stressed again that I now had to make another decision. I had already mentally prepared for the c-section and was looking forward to meeting or little girl in a week, but I kept thinking I never want to think, "What if i could have tried natural child-birth", so I decided to give it one more shot. We were in the room for no more than 15 min when a different doctor told us for a second time she didn't feel comfortable doing it. She said it looked like the cord was to close to her neck (didn't see it around, but it was close) and the baby's head was resting on my placenta. If they tried to move her the placenta would keep getting in the way and it might cause it to detach which would cause our baby's heart rate to drop and have to perform an emergency c-section where i would be completely out and wouldn't be able to hear my baby's first cry. I was glad she was honest with me. (what was crazy about this is the technician didn't see a cord close around the neck 10 minutes before the doctor came in) I thought, well at least I know now and I would never think, What if?? and I did feel good about these results. I know Heavenly Father is watching out for the safety of our little girl and she is meant to come into this world this way for a reason. A c-section is scheduled for Wed. September 15th and 7:30 am. I was now counting down the days until we could see her. It would be 5 days now!

WELL...... I get a call this morning from my doctor. She is measuring a little to small for there liking. Even though I am 38 weeks, she is measuring more like a 36 week old. He told me he wants to check her lung maturity. He told me to come in the day before the scheduled c-section where they would put a needle in my belly, and get some amniotic fluid to check her lung maturity. If all is well, we will go forward with the c-section the next day, if not we may have to wait another week, maybe more...

I'm so grateful I have careful doctors who are taking care of my baby and me, but I am now so anxious!!! Will it be 5 days?? Will it be 14?? Do I have to wait to go into labor on my own?? I guess this is what it's like anyway waiting to go into labor, but it's just been a roller coaster!!

This is me at 37 weeks before the first scheduled aversion. ( i had to take a picture just incase it put me into labor)

The day before the second scheduled aversion I spent, what might be my last Wednesday before she comes with my mom and sisters. My mom pampered me by doing my eyelashes, eyebrows, hair and then Paige came in to do my toenails!! I'm so lucky to have family who love and support me!

Sugar and Spice

2010-08-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

This was my Sugar and Spice and Everything nice baby shower!

We did it at the sugarhouse park where there was a beautiful ice cream bar set up with tons of candy and toppings! Everything looked perfect!

My two sisters and mom did a wonderful job throwing me a shower! they put so much into it, it looked amazing! thanks guys, i love you!

Jani and I are only 6 days apart! We're both having girls and it's been so fun to be pregnant together!

Yay for the bank job for bringing friends together! Love these girls!

My sis made the cutest onesies with little ice cream cones on them while the other sis put matching headbands over them. I can't wait to put her in them.

This shirt just emphasizes the fact that i'm pregnant...

She got so much cute stuff! and it was everything i needed!

I love these hooded towels!

My mom got me this blessing dress that i absolutely love!!! i especially love the bonnet with all the ruffles and the crochet booties!

Thanks again to all of you!

The last 24 hours..

2010-08-18T16:52:00.000-07:00

I decided to start a baby afghan. I've only tried scarfs so i decided now would be the time to venture out. I am pleasantly surprised how well it's going so far...i just hope i will be able to finish in time. 5 more weeks!!

Me at 35 weeks being all domestic and stuff

I also learned how to do flowers. Maybe i'll stick them on the blanket or make something else out of them.

Today i was hanging up some of Caden's shirts and saw a baby pink hanger. HEY! his response was "When you need one... you need one!"

SUMMER FUN!

2010-07-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than going up to the canyon and soaking in the sun with the family that you love!

I love this little guy!

Nate, Cass, Yo, and Dad cooking hot dogs over coals. The kid in all of us....

Cheeser!

Mount Pleasant so far...

2010-07-18T14:32:00.000-07:00

Some pics of the new place.

( you can barely see, but we made a very wise purchase on the super sac on the bottom right corner. It's well used and we knew once she comes our purchases will be limited)

Thanks fam for helping us move in!

Caden's new toy!- Well we are officially 100% debt free.....for now. We decided to sell our precious Toyota Avalon, that I loved so much, to get rid of any monthly payments. But we both thought it was a good idea to have a "back up car" so we found this fun ole thing for a trade in. It's been really fun and Caden is all talk about going in the mountains and camping and such. We've already been on a few rides and I have to remind him that I have a body inside me bouncing around so we're a little limited on the off roading we can do.

30 weeks!

So being here in Mount Pleasant with plenty of time and no job waiting for baby, I get a little crafty. I found some dress up beads and glued them to these few lamps. It's been fun! Caden is probably getting sick of me bringing home more stuff home for her. (I loved this wall sticker of this chandelier ). Just gettin everything ready for her.

We are really loving it here. The people are sweet, the town is charming and the country living is beautiful!

ECLIPSE

2010-07-03T07:55:00.000-07:00

LOVED IT!

i think i had a smile spread across my face when jacob and bella kissed....

We made each other fans....love ya caitlyn!

My own Renesme in my belly! :) ok so wrong book but i may not be pregnant when the next book comes out and i wanted to take advantage of the funny opportunity

third trimester

2010-06-30T08:17:00.001-07:00

as of yesterday i hit my seven month mark and am officially in my third trimester! i can't believe she'll be here in less than 3 months! i feel like it's going by so fast! I went to the hospital here in Mount Pleasant to check things out. A nurse showed me the labor and delivery/recovery room where all the machines, bed and baby's bed were. A flood of emotions came over me. I was scared thinking of labor and all that comes with it. I could visualize her in the carrier and was anxious to hold her. I was happy and excited thinking she is coming so soon!

I love being pregnant!

* she's the first thing i feel in the morning and the last thing i feel when i go to bed- she is always moving and squirming !!!

* i crave snow cones, icee's and otterpops all the time

* I was watching A Baby Story and cried when the mother held her baby after 38 hours of labor

(i don't know if i was crying thinking about the labor or that she could finally hold her baby)

* i love passing the baby section at wal-mart or target and browsing

* i love when people ask me when i'm due or if i'm pregnant

* i am always putting my hand on my belly just to feel like she's with me

* i sing in the car and wonder if she likes it.....or not

* thankfully i was never threw up or was too sick, so i feel like i could do this another 4 or 5 times :)

* i love when caden feels her and says, "Oh! that was her!" "Oh, i love her"

(as of recently, Caden is calling her Maggie. i love it, but i tell him to not name her yet, but he says, "you know that's her name!" it's his favorite.... what do you think?)

I love looking at old pics

2010-06-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

So three years ago around Easter time the 5 of us decided to go to comedy sports in Provo. We went really early so we could get good seats. We showed up by the locked door. Guess we didn't need to go that early. Well as you can see......we got bored. and this is what happens when you get bored. I always laugh so hard when I look at these. Maybe a few of you will appreciate it.

This man has some serious farmers tan issues to this day. (but i love the GQ pose. he's cute)

Looking off into the distance......

So here i am about to get up and get the camera on the sidewalk to reset it, but what is up with weston!!!!

just a close up so you can see what i mean....

rock on!!!

A new beginning

2010-05-11T20:41:00.000-07:00

It's almost like a mission call waiting to find out where our position would be. We were expecting to find out our assignment in a few more weeks but to our surprise we got a phone call last week. Caden's instructor got on the phone and this was our following conversation.

Instructor: "So are you excited to know where you're going?!?"

Me & Caden: "Yes!"

Instructor: "You put on your application that you would go anywhere right??

Me: "Ya?"

Instructor: " Caden has been called to Utah Valley East area."

Me: "Ok? What does that mean?"

Instructor:" He's going to be teaching at the high school in Mount Pleasant Utah!"

Caden: "Really?!"-while laughing and giggling

Me: "Wait, where's Mount Pleasant?"

Caden: " It's right before Ephraim sweetie!"

Caden had a feeling we were going to a small town in southern Utah. I'm still letting it sink in. We're looking for a home in Ephraim because we love the town, and of course there is a Wal-mart there. We met at Snow College in Ephraim and I loved every minute of it there, but I never dreamed of getting our first home and raising my kids there! I'm excited for the fun opportunity of this new career and getting a house and starting our family.

This might very well be my new neighbor...............

Me at Five Months!!

I thought I better throw this in. (don't mind the weird face. i told him to leave my face out of it). We had our 20 week appointment last week where we did the fun ultrasound and saw all the neat things inside. It was crazy to see her heart beating, her little fingers move and happy to see that she was healthy.

I was happy to hear when we got our assignment that we would only be an hour and twenty minutes away from my family in pleasant grove. I know I will need my sweet mother and family close by to visit on those random days with my sweet girl. And it will be fun to be closer to Carl so we can hopefully visit him more often.

Much to say...

2010-04-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

Much has happened these past few weeks that I can't let go by without sharing these wonderful blessings.

We enjoyed a wonderful Easter with family and we loved every session of conference. I do love how my birthday always falls on conference weekend. I love hearing those brethren speak and being uplifted by there words.

Saturday morning i enjoyed a wonderful breakfast in bed by this man that i love and then as a very special birthday gift in between session we went to fetal photos and found out were having

A GIRL!!

We couldn't be happier! She's all I think about! I'm excited to get a big belly, feel her kick, hold her and to be her Mom. Every once in a while Caden will remind me, "We're havin a baby!" He's thrilled! (He's been so patient with my picky eating, smelling random things and my tired body.) When we went to the appointment my sister told me drink a lot of ice water so she will be alert and moving. Sure enough when he put the camera on her she was kicking and flipping. It was so fun to watch her move. After a few minutes the technician noticed she had hiccups! We watched as every 3 secs her body would jolt with a hiccup. She looked perfect! (I think she already has Caden's nose.) I am officially 18 weeks today and we are expecting her September 22!

MORE EXCITING NEWS.....

We were ecstatic to find out last week that Caden will now be fully employed by the LDS church as a seminary teacher! After interviews, observations and a year of student teaching it was now just a phone call away. When Caden got the call he said he couldn't stop shaking out of excitement. Now there's just a little more waiting to see where we are going to "be sent", but we did decide and Caden put on his application, that we would go anywhere. We are so blessed to have this as a career. I have loved this year as he has student taught because the spirit has been so strong in our home and we have learned so much about the scriptures. He loves interacting with the kids he teaches and is always sharing with me his love and concern for them. He is such and amazing teacher, there is no doubt in my mind he will be amazing at this. I'm excited for you sweetie and lucky I get the be you're wife to share it with you! Thanks for all your prayers!

our lives are so blessed!!

the difference between men and women..

2010-02-25T16:59:00.000-08:00

So although this conversation with Caden and I happened a few weeks ago i can't let it go untold on our lovely blog. So, at the beginning of the month i went shopping at the gateway with my mom and sisters for Mallory's birthday. Anyway since Caden and I have been married we haven't had a really cute bedspread or we have been using one that i had since high school, so lately i have been on the lookout for a new quilt. When we were shopping at Urban Outfitters i saw some really cute quilts. I had my mom and sisters with me who told me it was cute, helped me pick one out and helped me buy it compulsively. I was really excited about the purchase and although it wasn't a complete knock off, I thought it was a good deal for being at Urban Outfitters. I went to Ross and bought some cheap pillows to throw. When Caden came home i said,

" well, what do you think of the bedspread?" really excited for him to see it.

"I like it it's nice!", while he sits on the bed.

"I got it at Urban Outfitters. Guess how much it was?" smile on my face cause i thought it was a good deal.

" 30 dollars?" he says.

"Caden! it's a really nice quilt! and it was from Urban Outfitters!"

"15??"

Disappointed i answer, "It was 100.."

"I shouldn't even be laying on it!!" as he jumps off.

I go on to tell him that that is how much quilts usually cost if you want a nice one. He let me know that was fine. I still had Christmas money i still hadn't spent. I just couldn't believe after he said 30 dollars he goes to 15. What the heck guys.....really? or was i not so much a bargain shopper. Well i guess that's a little difference between men and women.

i love sunday afternoons

2010-02-11T08:23:00.000-08:00

I love Sunday afternoons where we just sit and have fun as a family. We started snapping shots you know saying things like, " k now this one happy, or do this one mad." but they all just kinda came out as "what was that?!"....ENJOY!

This was supposed to be a "happy" picture. I guess no one heard me.

oh NOW he heard the happy a little to late.

(Ash looks like he's going to pop a vein or something!)

was this supposed to be a "happy" picture again?

I had to add at least ONE cute picture....

oh wow! love you guys!!

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-29T11:43:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas time! I love the lights, the presents, shopping, spending time with family, catching up with friends, wrapping presents, surprises and thinking about our Savior.

It was fun catching up with old friends at temple square. thanks carrie

so we tried something new this year. we got a white tree...Caden has always wanted a white tree but he would prefer blue lights. i settled on the white tree and he settled for pre-lit white lights, but it actually turned out a lot better then we were thinking. I liked it! what do ya think?

I love spending Christmas eve with my family. After a wonderful day with my mom's side of the family we went home to open our pj's and then i think we may have started a new tradition. We were all hungry and decided to go to In&Out Burger in our matching pajama's :) The cashier seemed to get a kick out of it and was so glad we came in.

Wow......that was cute....

Christmas morning!

Whenever he's around i can't get enough of him! i want to squeeze those cheeks!!!

Hope all of you enjoyed your Christmas!!

Happy New Year!

Happy Birthday sweetie!

2009-11-18T15:28:00.000-08:00

He's half a century old! On November 12, Caden turned 25. We celebrated with breakfast and off to his seminary class were we shared donuts with his students. We then went to his favorite restaurant Rodizio, were we stuffed ourselves full. it was a fun day!

thanks mom and dad for Lost and mal and marks for the shoes! I surprised him with Wii resort and an electric shaver. That is one happy man

My husband is the most wonderful blessing in my life. i love his positive attitude and his laugh. i love you so much sweetie. happy birthday!

So we moved!

2009-11-18T15:04:00.000-08:00

Well, we had to move. We were really sad about it. We made really good friends at the University Village and loved our ward family. This was our first little place together and we loved it, even the concrete walls weren't so bad. I miss coming home to a playground full of kids and friendly neighbors. We found another little one bedroom apartment in the Fort Union area and are enjoying it here so far.

Goodbye old place. We'll miss you!

We now actually have counter space....it's pretty nice

i can't believe we lived more than two years of our marriage with out a dishwasher. the sink is always empty! and to the right of this picture is our beautiful washer and dryer. we sprung for the front loaders and feel like we're living large doing laundry whenever we want.

we found an awesome deal on this counter high table and four chairs. love them!

yes...we splurged. caden found an awesome deal on this 40" t.v.

update

2009-08-11T17:05:00.001-07:00

we're alive i promise....we both just finished finals last week so hopefully life might get back to normal for a bit until it starts again for me. i just want to say congrats to my sweet husband for getting his bachelors. he didn't do the whole walk thing for his diploma, but he worked really hard graduating with a 3.85 college GPA. Good job babe! We are now looking forward to him teaching seminary at a near by high school as a student teacher this coming year. He is so excited! (we're going to decorate his seminary classroom tomorrow). And auditions are coming up for me for the symphony in 2 weeks. Let's hope all goes well!! we may be moving soon too because where we are living you can't live here unless someone is going to the university so we'll keep you posted (or just to my one or two followers) love you!

good times

2009-07-14T22:21:00.000-07:00

Last night my mom and i went to the death cab for cutie concert at the red butte gardens. I won vip tickets from my work at wells fargo for having awesome customer service and caden didn't want to miss his class (heaven forbid) so the first person i thought of next was my mom.

We brought our own cafe rio dinner and then once death cab started we mentioned going down in the pit. mom was the one that said ya let's go do it!

Thanks mom for the fun night! you're awesome!

they were amazing live!

don't really know the band....loved the shirts...

ok...so we couldn't stop laughing at this guy that was just rocking out by himself for at least a good 20 minutes. you go dude! ( in the middle of the video it starts shaking because i couldn't help but laugh)

it's been two years

2009-07-08T18:55:00.001-07:00

I can't believe we have been married already for two years...But i feel like i have known Caden forever...weird how that works out. I'm such a lucky women! It is so easy for me to list qualities i love in him, which i started, but the list just went on and on. we're still in that newlywed phase where we are always cuddling and kissing and can say we have never had a fight. (i think we'll be in that phase forever) honestly, he makes me laugh everyday and helps me get through tough days at school and work. i love you sweetie!

this past weekend we had the opportunity to get off school and work and go to st. george for a few days. we enjoyed being lazy together, going to dinner's, shopping and going to the movies.

last night we saw footloose at the tuacahn. it was awesome and alot of fun!

busy busy busy

2009-06-17T19:29:00.000-07:00

well after a break from school i finally started up again on June 10th. I'm taking a physics course and a communication course. My classes are mon tues wed and thurs nights. I'm still working 35 hours a week at wells fargo and squeezing in my violin lessons and practicing. I feel bad because I've had to cancel my relief society meetings twice now and my bed hasn't been made in days.... it's only been a week and a half of this schedule and i'm exhausted!

Oh, and i think i have finally recovered from the "little red riding hood" bike race last saturday. With my mom and sisters help i completed an 80 miles bike race. I had only had my bike a month and the longest ride i'd ever been on was 37 miles. I really couldn't have done it without my mom who blocked the wind for me for almost half of the race. my mom is a very good rider and likes to go very fast. she would stay with me though and talk or teach me new ways to ride and remind me to drink. thanks to cassie who wouldn't let me get off my bike and walk it up that dang hill that went on forever. "Megan, look up!! you did it!! Megan look up!!" after about 7 hours..it was done. Love you guys! until next time

memorial day fun

2009-05-28T08:55:00.001-07:00

after a long 37 mile bike ride in the morning with my mom and sisters, after i busted my same knee open again after yet another crash, and after i swear a second degree sunburn on my back that is still throbbing today, we enjoyed a beautiful day in the provo canyon. i love spending time with my family!

i swear we're not sisters who plan our outfits out together. it just happens

up on bridal veil falls

i'm officially a triathlete!

2009-05-19T19:50:00.000-07:00

it was absolutely amazing! i loved it!

*The swim went by faster than i thought

(i thought i had two more laps to go when i heard the guy yelling at me to get out of the water)

The bike ride was fun. Hated the uphills. Loved the down hills.

When i started running my legs felt like jello and 200 hundred pounds each, but for some reason my energy and adrenaline were still up and pumping.

After exactly an hour and a half....VICTORY!

Good job Cassie, Sam and Millie! (thanks for sticking with me mills)

is this how it's supposed to be?

2009-05-12T19:35:00.001-07:00

Look at my beautiful bike!!

look at my wounds...

Ouch! Aahh! Ooo!

what the heck am i doing??

in 4 weeks from today!

2009-04-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

So I set some goals....

So for those that don't know I play the violin. I have played for almost my whole life, but when Caden and I got married I stopped taking lessons and playing 5 hours a day (from being a music major at snow college). I was lazy at finding a teacher for a year and a half. I realized without help I was losing my talent...so a few months ago I found this wonderful teacher, Leslie and I absolutely love playing again. I'm going to audition for the Salt Lake Symphony in August. I have a recital 4 weeks from today were I am playing this beautiful piece "Vocalise" by Rachmaninoff. I'm back to scales, etudes, and Mozart for auditions. Oh boy!

and on the same day as my recital I'm doing a triathlon!!!

My sister Cassie did this same triathlon last year and encouraged me to do it this year with her. I mean she just have a baby 2 months ago and she's doing it! She's a rock. It's 300 yards swimming, 15 miles biking, then a 5k. I just have to say it's kicking my trash. I've really enjoyed going to swim for exercising and I just ordered a road bike for my birthday and am way excited, but I know the run is going to kick my butt. I've never done anything like this before.Wish me luck! 6 a.m. workouts here I come!

p.s. my sister mal just completed a half marathon today! as Chicago would say " you're the inspiration!" good job!

birthday fun!

2009-04-08T22:16:00.000-07:00

well on the 3rd i officially turned 21!! yay! i was woken up with breakfast in bed by my wonderful husband and spent the day at lunch with my mom and sisters (and my nephews). Caden and i then went to Tepenyaki for dinner, which was so cool, and then went to go see the movie Knowing, with Nicholas Cage (i thought the end was lame). We then spent conference weekend down at my parents house. i loved spending my birthday weekend with them. Thanks everyone! Love you!

way to much fun! love ya buddy

vegas..yet again

2009-02-16T17:54:00.001-08:00

My fam decided to do a little get away to Las Vegas. My uncle has an amazing home in vegas he rarely lives in and uses for business, so we were lucky enough to stay in there for a few nights. The first night we bought steaks, sat in the hot tub, played yatzee and watched movies. Then it was off to vegas.

We missed scott cassie and asher though. Cassie's baby is due any day now and we're so excited! and mallory was just a bum and couldn't get off work.

So we splurged and decided to go the the spice market buffet in the planet hollywood hotel. it was so good! my mom said she was going to win us some money in the slot machines for dinner but the five bucks didn't go very long. maybe one day...soon..i'll be old enough to gamble.

because we were going to be in las vegas with my parents and siblings on valentines day, we decided to do our's on wed. Caden bought me some flowers , amazing chocolates and we got pizza delivered. i love him!

update

2009-02-16T17:49:00.001-08:00

well the decision was made. Caden's dad Carl bought 2009 Mustang GT. He absolutely loves it! Caden is pretty jealous. We went to go visit him this weekend before we went to vegas and i woke up to caden getting back in bed around 8 a.m. He was frezzing and confessed he was out in the garage that morning awing over that car.