Nelson Family Happenings

Halloween 2008 - Full of Fun!

2008-11-03T14:54:00.000-08:00

My mom and dad had a fun 50's themed Halloween Party this year. We danced and my mom planned some super creative games for us all. Of course we ate WAY too much. The kids and I dressed as "greasers" as best we could with things we already owned. What a great party!

Here are my silly kids after carving.

They are so funny! They kept those combs in their back pockets the whole night. And they actually let me grease up their hair. (after much persuasion on my part)

Here's one of Ethan during the "mummy" game my mom had us do. He and I were partners.

This picture is from our Ward Halloween Party night. Livia changed from her Hannah costume to a crazed vampire girl. We had a great time that night. Aaron and I dressed in our 70's stuff.

This one is Actual Halloween night. It was really rainy that day so I changed their costumes to jacket covered grapes! Then, all they had to do is put their coats on and go have fun! We went to friends to celebrate and dance the night away after.

Liv was Hannah Montana for her girlfriend's party. This was her "original costume".... She loves to switch it up during halloween time. I do too!

Zack loved his Pizza costume. And, it was low maintenance which I loved. He loves pizza so much!

Okay, just picture the long icky brown mustache he had on with this... This pic was taken without it! He looked SO funny. And, he stayed in "slick rick" character all night! 70's guy makes me laugh.

Notice the lopsided nose.... He tried so hard! What a cutie pie! Wow it's been a busy couple of weeks... On to the next holiday!!

2008-10-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

A little about our Trip to Disneyland Sept. 28- Oct.4 2008

We stayed at the Disney Hotel Paradise Pier, in walking distance to everything!

It was a normal style hotel with a few fun Disney add ons. (I did indulge a few times in MickeyMouse Pancakes for room service) I can never resist room service. Wasn't I supposed to be born into money?? What happened?? Anyway, Enjoy these few pics of our trip.

Disneyland!! Who doesn't love it???!!!!

Zack couldn't wait to see Donald!!! It took us all week to find him!! We found him the LAST day of our trip.

We had such a fun time At Woody's Roundup. Ethan did not want to leave and we had already stayed like 1 hour! He danced with Woody and Jesse and Colored and Decorated Cookies, and Spent SO much time with the characters. Halloween time at Disney is SO fun! Every Character is in costume and the places are all decorated so cute.

Okay, to be honest, I think I was more excited than Olivia to have the "private meeting" with the princesses. I couldn't stop smiling. :) Aaron's sister Tara works there and got us lots of Perks on our trip. This was one! Then one other day, we had lunch at Ariel's Grotto (much to zack's dismay) and met Snow white, Belle, Aurora, Ariel, and Cinderella. We girl's LOVED it.

Our Breakfast in Goofy's Kitchen was a Great time! Chip and Dale were there, Baloo the bear, Etc. We gorged ourselves on food and Got lots of great pictures. Goofy led a "conga line" and did some other funny things. I think the kids really enjoyed it.

All in all, what a great week! We went swimming lots, shopped, went on ALL the rides in both parks. Ate alot and WALKED ALOT. We loved it! It surely does help to have a family member that works in the park. Tara is such a sweetie for getting us in every day and putting up with our whining, and letting us lead her around all day every day. Thanks Tara for making the effort! I'm hoping the kids remember this for a long time to come. I know I will!

P.S. Tip for others going there, Bring Good Shoes!!!! Man that's a lot of walking.....

2008-09-24T21:25:00.000-07:00

Wow it has been awhile.... (I've been told by a few people that I need to update this..... )
I guess I just don't know what to say sometimes. Or, more likely, I just need to drag myself away from the tv at night!

Things are good! Olivia is getting her cast off tomorrow just in time for our Family Vacation to CA.... We are so excited for Disneyland, and I promise to blog and add those pics when we get back.

Today I was outside a bit this morning and I realized how much I love Fall.
The crisp air, the smell outside, the sunny but cool weather!! I LOVE it, I love that I can wear jeans and flip flops still but just add a sweatshirt if needed. Okay, So I wasn't meant for hot weather. I love the changing leaves, fall food, weather and holidays. I even love the occasional rainy day. Being warm and cozy in your house with the sound of rain outside.....
I guess I'm a Northwest girl....

The kids are doing well in school and Ethan LOVES preschool. He has such a good attitude in the mornings. He also has a little thursday playgroup with some buddies to keep him busy.
Zack is loving 5th grade - "the oldest kids at the school" He is doing great. Olivia likes her class too, but is anxious to get her cast off so she can join in with the other kids at recess and PE.
She is still taking Piano lessons, but sadly is already asking me if she can quit!!
(Long Story)

Aaron and I enjoyed our 13th Anniversary this month by going to Downtown Seattle and seeing the play "Phantom of the Opera"at the Paramount Theater. The play was good, and the music was SO fantastic, and then we went to dinner with friends after - FUN!

By the way, the pic's I added are everybody's first day of school pic.

Summer Mishap!

2008-08-19T11:01:00.001-07:00

At least she can get around now, we just got this permanent cast today. Until now, we had a temp. splint and I had to CARRY her everywhere. Wow I'm so glad that's over.

Okay, so we didn't escape summer without a "mishap." (I just love that word. My sister Julia has lots of "mishaps" don't you jul?) ;)

Anyway, Liv broke her foot last Saturday night jumping out of a friend's truck onto the grass. It didn't even look swollen, but she couldn't walk on it without crying so I took her in. Yes, this means no Soccer Season now. She is so bummed.

Also, we are going to Disneyland soon for the first time in six years, and I REALLY hope this cast is off first!!! Crap.

It wasn't a terrible break, but it was near her growth plate and enough of a break that they want her to have the cast for 4-6 weeks! So, she will start 3rd grade with a limp and a cast. I wonder how we'll give her baths and stuff?? Any tips out there from my friends? This is our first kid break.

Poor Liv's. She was so depressed yesterday. She's doing better today, now that she can get around and has a stylish pink cast!

Rafting on the White Salmon River, Oregon

2008-08-17T15:53:00.000-07:00

Dude!! On August 8 & 9 I went on a river rafting trip on a Class 3/4/5 river in Oregon. This was a blast!

That's me in the front right. Also, Ronda, Kira, Amber, Suzanne & Taryn. (And our guide Keenan) Hard to tell with the Helmets, etc.

Yes, that is us (above) completely "submerged" underwater being near drowned by the force of it.
There are more pics than this, but I condensed for the sake of the blog. There is one picture where we are going straight up and down about to go under the water. Crazy!

I was pretty anxious/nervous before we got there because I didn't know what to expect at all. But, once we got on the river it was so much FUN! The only real scary part was the Class 5 rapid towards the end of the ride. (the above pics) You can't really plug your nose cuz you have to hold your paddle and the boat. Needless to say, you swallow a LOT of water through your nose and choke on it after.
What a fun girl's trip that was. Next year I am totally bringing Aaron and anyone else who will join us! It's a great 1/2 day trip with gorgeous views and beautiful/cold glacier water that is a light turquoise in color - so pretty!

Sidenote: all of the handsome 20-something river guides were a perk too!
Hey, I'm only human - sorry Honey~

Cool as a Cucumber

2008-07-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, this was DURING dinner.... I asked him to PLEASE TRY and eat a vegetable for once.
He took them and layed on the floor and did this and said, "Ahhhhh..."
I laughed so hard and asked him where he learned that and he didn't answer. I am sure it's from the endless amounts of TV he watches. Maybe "Drake and Josh"? (one of his fav's)
I mean, why eat the veggies when you can wear them? ;)

My Utah Trip

2008-07-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

For my 34th Birthday I went down to visit my "Utah Peeps".... It was a blast!

This coming up picture is beautiful Herriman Utah where my Sister Jennifer moved 7 months ago.. Her house is up in the deserty mountains in a new subdivision. She has such a pretty house with great views!

My other Sister Julia lives in Draper. She has a brand new home as well. It is beautiful too! I spent a couple of nights at each sister's house hanging out with them and their kids...

I also saw my Grandma while I was there. Her mind is still sharp as ever, but she seemed lonely and down. It was so nice to visit with her and I was VERY sad to say goodbye knowing I may never see her again on this earth. She is doing well for now, but you never know at that age what may come. I am so greatful for all of my extended family members who take care of her needs since I am far away and can't do much to help out.

That's me "Running with Scissors" in Taipan.....Can you see the HUGE scissors??

Okay, you know how most people go to Taipan to shop and buy??? Well, I was in a funny mood and started to get the giggles looking at all of the fake plastic food they have there. So then, when I saw the GIANT outdoor pots they had, I bullied by sister's into getting inside them JUST FOR FUNSIES! I couldn't help my little immature self. Jennifer DID NOT want to do it cuz there was a sales lady nearby. I don't blame her at all, when I get into a silly mood I can get a bit wierd and don't seem to care what others may think (it's a bit of a problem).

We were all laughing so hard by the end we were attracting many stares!!

There was another picture that went along with our little taipan visit, but it's a bit too naughty for the blog....We'll just keep that one for ourselves. Too FUNNY! (It's not THAT bad mom)

It's so hard having some of my sisters far away... I'm so glad I decided to go down alone for a few days!! We shopped and danced and ate and went to the pool etc... Good times...

Thanks Jen and Jul for everything!! Love you both so very much!!

Happy Last Day of School!!!

2008-06-17T14:37:00.000-07:00

HOORAY FOR SUMMER!

Here are some pics of my kids with their Teachers this year....

I can't believe how fast this year went!

Zachary will be in 5th grade this fall, Olivia will be in 3rd, and Ethan will be in 3day pre-school!

They are growing up fast and I Love them all SO very much!

CONGRATS on finishing the year kids - mommy is so proud........

Happy Father's Day! (A couple of Day's Late...)

2008-06-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

I just want to express a Huge Happy Father's Day for my sweetheart Aaron!!

Also, For my Super Awesome Dad Dennis!!

Where would we be without Dads? Some may say we don't "need a man" to complete us.... I say, Guess what, I DO!

Thank you Dad for being there for me always, and Thank you Aaron for being my best friend.

I don't know what I did to deserve someone like Aaron, but he really is my perfect match in every way. We love to laugh, we both hate yard work, we love to travel, we love movies and music....etc. etc. (I could go on for a while...) We have pretty much grown up together and I cannot remember a time without him in my life!

We are just enough opposite to have some exciting differences too. I am probably making most of you want to barf, but I just am so greatful to him. I am greatful that he wanted to and joined the church, and greatful for his example of strength and selflessness. He always thinks of others before himself. And, I mean ALWAYS. What an example for me and the kids. He listens to me when I get obsessive and crazy, he makes me laugh when I'm grumpy and helps me with our kids all the time. Happy Father's day honey.....You deserve a great day!

As for my dad, I love you big guy! You are a smart, loving, hardworking firecracker of a man!

Thanks for successfully raising 5 fiesty daughters and beating cancer to still be here for us all! You are the best!

Sidenote: I am also blessed to have an AWESOMELY cool Step Father-in-law, and A SERIOUSLY wonderful Father-in-law too! Am I lucky or what??? Totally Spoiled...

2008 Cub Scouts Pinewood Derby!!

2008-05-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, for the first time in three years Aaron and Zack have built a pinewood derby car that didn't come in LAST! (or at least not advancing to the finals) YIPEE!!! See the car below???? Of course it's a Pizza Slice, eh? I'm so proud of him and happy to see him win. It was his last pinewood derby because next year he will be in 11-year old scouts. Such a fun way to finish out Cubs!

Okay, check out that awesome uniform...It takes a good dose of humility and pride in your calling to wear this puppy - trust me.....

He had such a good time at the race. He came in 3rd place in all of the webelos (the 10year olds) and 2nd place in the championship rounds with all the boys ages 8-10. He got a couple of different medals for his shirt and I think he had a good feeling of accomplishment. Aaron and I were cheering like kids!

The other two boys in the final three were two of his best friends Nathan and Dylan. And, of course we all had to cap it off at good ol' Dairy Queen.

For those of you out there who don't know, Zack has struggled with emotional problems stemming from his ADD etc. He was so depressive this last fall/winter we didn't know what to do. He still tends to be somewhat of a negative kid, so winning this and seeing him genuinely smile really took a load of parental stress off of my shoulders. Too bad we all have to pass down such crappy genetic traits eh? So not funny! Anyway, he's a great kid, and I hope one day he grows into a happy, healthy, strong man. I sure love him enough to give it my best try!!

High School Musical!

2008-05-26T16:54:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun at the Broadway Production of Disney's High School Musical last friday night. We went with some friends, and Olivia and I had a great time! It was a lot like the tv-version and even had cannon's that blasted confetti on the audience during the finale. She jumped out of her seat and clapped and screamed....I got misty eyed just watching her enjoy the whole experience. Fun Fun FUN!!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

Mother's day was great! I got a NAP after church (which hardly ever happens....) and the kids all made me very special gifts. Zack wrote me an ABC book all about what he loves about me...It meant so much! He keeps his feelings to himself so this was something he doesn't do often.

I will cherish it always..

We all went to my mom's that evening for a big eating party and celebration - we had fun!

I love my sweet kids and feel blessed and priveleged to be their mom. Also, I'm so greatful for my Aaron who made me a mom, and who is the most wonderful partner I could have ever asked for!!!

Happy mother's day to all my moms, sisters and friends out there - you deserve a great and wonderful day!!!

Mr. Man.....

2008-04-16T16:20:00.000-07:00

It's funny, It's just as if he is really a grown man trapped in a tiny body. Lately he seems "at war" within himself a lot. He has so much anger and so much irritation for such a small guy. Ethan is hilarious....But, if he doesn't get his way he can be MEAN. It doesn't usually phase me, but I'm concerned that he may never outgrow this anger he's always simmering. Poor torchured soul!

The other night we were all looking up our Chinese Zodiac Signs just for fun.. The personality profile that goes with them were right on the money for most of us!!!

I was year of the Tiger, Aaron was year of the pig, Zack was year of the tiger too, and Olivia was year of the Dragon!

So, Guess what Ethan was.....Year of the Monkey! So like him. My sister Jennifer has always said he reminds her of Curious George. He's into EVERYTHING even at age 4. Also, he cannot sit still. It said they are thinkers, scientist types, need to know how things worked etc... The zodiac description even had "picky eater" on it! Oh My, it was right on the money...So funny.

He's a great kid! He keeps me on my toes that's for sure. Also, he's sitting right here by me asking me LOTS of questions....So curious!

2008-04-15T22:37:00.000-07:00

Dude....I have music and a new background....That took some serious computer savvy on my part considering I'm usually pretty clueless about tech stuff....Yeah!

Olivia's Baptism

2008-03-31T20:57:00.001-07:00

Well, we are 2 for 3.... Last Saturday Olivia was Baptised by Aaron. It was so great! She was so sweet and excited. We had grandparents, and my local sisters families, and friends there to watch. She said the water was COLD. Her blessing was very special too.

If you want to know what my kids are like, just study this picture of them in the church hallway right before the baptism. I'm like, "Everyone get together by Livvy so I can have a great one of you before we go in to sit down."

And that pic is what I got. Is it so much to ask for a bit of quiet sibling encouragement and love?

Well, it captures each of their personalities perfectly! I couldn't have even planned it better. Those silly boys....I'm sure somewhere deep down they were happy for Olivia???

Also, Olivia's convinced (because she said that someone told her) you can be baptised again at 18.. So if you mess up, you have that back-up plan. I had to set her straight last night before bed. I think I burst her bubble a little. You should have seen how much pressure she had on her face as she realized she has to be good or repent like the rest of us. She wants to be good SO bad it stresses her out! How cute.

I can't believe how fast time is going as a mom. Some days are totally monotanous, but those kids are so special to me. Olivia is 8!!!!

Yikes.

2008-03-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, Melissa has already been tagged! So, I now tag:

Tara Nelson ~

P.S.

2008-03-10T22:06:00.000-07:00

Does anyone out there know how to add music to my blog? It's so stale....Help.

I guess I've been Tagged!

2008-03-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've been tagged

A: The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.
B: Each player answers the questions about themselves.
C: At the end of the post, the player then tags 3 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

Here's all you never wanted to know:

Ten Years Ago today.....
I was tending to my first baby Zachary who was about 2 months old. I was a mess physically and emotionally, but SO in love with my baby! We shortly therafter moved to Spokane so Aaron could start a new job. That proved to be an inspired choice, as Aaron was soon after Baptised in our new ward there. We had an amazing year that year full of firsts and great change.

5 things on my to-do list today:
(I will give my list for tomorrow since today is over)
1. Take Ethan to Preschool
2. Go visiting teaching
3. Shop?
4. Play with Ethan/do household chores
5. Pay bills

Snacks I enjoy:
I don't snack much...but I eat plenty at mealtimes & dessert!
If I had to choose,
1. cheese! I LOVE cheese
2. chocolate - all varieties
3. Do Nachos count as a snack?
4. fruit

What would I do if I were suddenly a Billionaire?
1. Pay all our bills and mortgage off
2. Help family and friends who need it
3. Totally travel the world with my Sweetie!!! I am determined to see as much of it as I can before I die. Greece, Italy, Ireland, Africa, New Zealand, Spain, Israel etc.
4. Culinary school and maybe chase some other dreams
5. Invest, and then give away lots to world hunger, and other charities
6. Buy something frivilous, maybe a new car that actually runs well? Or, a new "vacation home" in Hawaii?

3 of my Bad Habits - what...only three?
1. Sometimes I might use foul language.....oops
2. Impatience
3. Staying up too late at night

5 Places I've lived
1. Washington - MANY different cities here
2. Salem, Oregon
3. Walnut Creek, California
4. Sandy, Utah
5. Boise, Idaho

5 jobs I've had:
1. Florist
2. Bookkeeper
3. Worked in the financial department at Publishing company
4. Waitress/server
5. Safeway worker - bag girl, checker, bookkeeper, etc etc. Yikes!

5 things people don't know about me:
1. I would love to drive a race car one day!!
2. I love practical jokes and laughter....I love to tease/prank those I love most. Why? I'm not sure.....
3. I LOVE music - all kinds, and played 3 instruments growing up. I was even a "band geek" for a short while.
4. When I was growing up, I loved to write stories and used to dream of being a published author.
5. I am extremely afraid of heights, I even get clammy hands while watching movies where people are up high! Nice, eh?

I tag:

(By the way, my family doesn't blog and most of you who read this have already been tagged!)

So, how bout'

Lindsay Page, Melissa Dillon, and Leslie Behunin

Great Googles! It's Olivia's Birthday!

2008-02-23T22:10:00.000-08:00

Happy 8th Birthday Olivia Grace!!

Sadly, Olivia has the chicken pox on her birthday....She feels like crap and was pretty tired and out of it today. We tried hard to make it fun for her. I even made the special "googles webkinz" cake she asked for. (Not as easy as I had hoped) She was sad she couldn't have any friends over, but I promised her a sleep over when she gets better.

I am so proud of who she has become, she is funny, sweet, helpful and beautiful too! What a lucky mom I am to have 3 such great kids!

Now, if we could just all get healthy! It's been like 3 weeks of straight viruses....

I guess it was our turn. ICK.

More Pics....

2008-02-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

I know I already posted today, but I thought olivia would like to be on it too. Isn't she cute? PS> I think I'm getting blog obsessed already.....uh oh

Poor Zack....Chicken Pox SUCK!

2008-02-11T10:42:00.000-08:00

Well for the last few days I have been slathering poor zacky with calamine lotion and all sorts of itch cream. He has been a trooper! Hardly even complains....I have to say of all my kids, he is the easiest when sick. I had forgotten how crappy chicken pox is! He is covered in spots, but today they seem less swollen and he is happier and doing better. Yikes!

Lets hope the other two don't get it, eh?

Zack told me today that he wants his own blog too. He wants to call it "the pizza blog". He tells me he is the Emperor of all Pizza. Recently, he even has a pizza club, it's very exclusive. Olivia has recently been kicked out because she picks the cheese off her pizza and that is a BIG NO-NO in zack's world.

He is so funny!

2008-02-10T22:47:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our blog!
I can't believe I am finally doing this! I was thinking it would be a great way to stay in each other's lives now that so many people I love are not around. Thanks for visiting our blog and send me comments!
Nelson's