Mickelsen Family

Christmas in California!

2011-12-31T15:49:00.000-07:00

We hope you have all had a very Merry Christmas! It's hard to believe that tomorrow will start a new year! We have had a wonderful Christmas season spending time with family and friends in warm weather. The month of December has flown by once again as it usually does each year. Here are some things we were able to do.

To start off with...Emma's hair. I think it says it ALL! In a way, it kind of explains how I felt at times this past month.

Emma and Santa did NOT hit it off well during their visit. Maybe next year she will like him.

Caleb attends a preschool close by. He LOVES it! We had the chance to watch the kids sing some Christmas songs and then Caleb and I decorated a ginger bread house...as did all the kids with their moms. It was a lot of fun.

NOW FOR THE CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE!!!!

We started our trip off on a Thursday morning. We loaded up in Zane's parents car and headed to Las Vegas. On the way we stopped and picked up Zane's sister and her friend. It was a full car! Zane's other sister also took her car with her family in it so all, in all...there were 13 of us total! We arrived in Las Vegas Thursday evening and enjoyed a walk to the M&M factory and Coca Cola factory. I had never been to Las Vegas before so this was a sight to see!!!

M&M factory and Coca Cola Factory. I have never seen so many M&M's in my life!!!

We stayed at the Luxor hotel. It was a pyramid and inside was pretty cool. The elevator went up on an angle so that felt a little weird.

On Friday we loaded up and headed south once again. We arrived in California, went grocery shopping, got settled in the house we rented, and picked up our tickets for the adventures that awaited us.

First stop was Universal Studios!

This was so fun! We were able to see the Grinch, go to a animal show, and take a tour down through the studios where they film movies and t.v shows. It was awesome!

Universal Studios.

Animal Show. Our nephew was selected out of a crowd of people to help the guy on stage. It was a fun show to watch.

During our tour through the studios we saw the original "Jurassic Park" jeep, and watched how they make fire, cars fly, and flash floods happen.

This is the neighborhood where they filmed "Desperate Housewives"

Awe...The, THe, THE...THE GRINCH!!!! Nice little production they put on for us and we got to see the set they used for the movie.

Anyone ever watched "War of the Worlds" I hated that show! This is probably why...here is the set they used to film it.

This is the set they used to film "Jaws." Here's a little trivia...Did you know that when they filmed that show, the shark had so many mechanical problems that they would always refer to him as "Flaws" instead of "Jaws?"

"How the Grinch Stole Christmas"

This was a tree lighting they put on with the Who's in Whoville and the Grinch.

Next day...CHRISTMAS!

Christmas morning we went to Church with Zane's parents. After church we came back and had a nice Christmas dinner. It was a nice day.

On Monday we hit it hard again...This time we drove to San Diego and went to the Zoo Safari and took a ride around the park to see the animals. There was a lot to do there but we cut it a bit short so we could run over to Sea World and catch some fun over there.

Here we are at Sea World. We watch the "Blue Horizons" dolphin show. It was AWESOME!!! The kids loved it!

On Tuesday we went to Knott's Berry Farm. It was so crowded but we were able to squeeze in some fun rides.

Wednesday and Thursday we spent at Disneyland and California Adventure. It was soooo crowded!

The first night we were there, they shut down the park and wouldn't let anyone in due to the fact it was over capacity...yes...that means there was more than 55,000 people there! Yikes!!!!

Going on some rides. Here we are on the T-cups and the Mono Rail.

Disney Characters!

Toon Town!

This is kind of funny...We ate at the Cheesecake factory one night. Apparently Caleb was so tired that he crashed right on the bench...the funny thing, his 3 cousins did the same. The only kid that was awake was Emma!

4 of the 5 kids sleeping at the Cheesecake Factory

Thursday...another day at Disneyland. We took the kids into the park really early so we could catch a few rides. We rode on 3 and then the wait time for the rides went up to 45 minutes and then to 60, 80, 120...you get the drift...it was busy so if you didn't catch the rides first thing...you probably weren't going on any of them.

Screaming California was the best roller coaster I have ever been on! It was so much fun!

These two were so cute on this little "Bugs Life" ride. Emma was squealing and laughing the whole time. Caleb was fine about the ride after about halfway through...He's not near as adventurous as his little sister.

Here is a picture of the house we stayed in. It was nice and fit all 13 of us well. The last night we ate at Joe's Crab Shack. It was so good. There was a guy that even made the kids an animal balloon. Caleb's was a monkey climbing up a tree and Emma's was a little poodle on a leash. He did an awesome job!

All 13 of us eating dinner.

It has been a wonderful Christmas once again. We hope you all have a wonderful New Year!

Christmas Season!

2011-12-04T22:13:00.000-07:00

Another 6 weeks have come and gone. We had a wonderful Halloween and Thanksgiving. Here are a few Halloween pictures I have been meaning to post.

Emma

Emma and Caleb

The first week of November, I was able to watch my sisters 5 girls for a week! It was so much fun! Her girls are beyond perfect and were perfect entertainers for my two! We went and checked out the new playground in Pocatello (Brooklyn's Playground). It was so much fun! The kids were in high heaven being able to explore all the areas!

Caleb, Emma and Riley

They loved the swings!

First time Emma went down a slide! She was hooked!

Another fun toy!

We have seemed to collect a plethora of animals since we have moved here. A dog, three chickens and a rooster and now two cats. Our Relief Society president had asked us for 3 weeks if we wanted two of their kittens. Zane was very adamant in saying NO! Well, I on the other hand REALLY wanted them...I mean, look at them...Aren't they adorable! Needless to say, Zane gave in and we found ourselves with two cats.

For a week, we loved on these cats, fed them, pet them, played with them...adored them! We wish the fun would had lasted! Sad to say, it didn't. More Below...

Quincy

Muffin

One morning, we woke up and Muffin was gone. We looked everywhere...she was no where to be seen. I was sold on the idea that she took a ride in Zane's engine to work. I believed this until 2 weeks later when I found her (pretty sure it was her anyway). She was not in a good state... Not sure if another critter caught hold of her but by the looks of it, she lost the battle.

Quincy on the other hand was spoiled but only for a short week longer. She and a car tire somehow came face to face and she lost too. To spare you the details, I'll just say it was a tough night for Zane and his dad to have to go and finish the job. Not sure who or when she got ran over but she wasn't going to make it either way and we didn't want her to suffer. So, there you have it...we didn't do so hot with the cats.

On occasion, I would let the kids bring Quincy in the house to play with her. Emma was crazy about her and honestly, I think Quincy felt the same.

Check this out! Zane and his awesome handy work put this dog house together from scratch!!! He worked on it for about 3 weeks in his spare time. It's even insulated! Max is one lucky pup!

Randomness!

Emma not only has me taking her picture down...she can now do it herself! Well, the camera is facing the wrong way but she's getting it!

Emma is 14 1/2 months in this picture. No she is not walking yet but yes she has taken a few steps.

Caleb and Emma on a Sunday Morning.

First Snowmachine Trip!!!

We went to Island Park for a day. We went with Zane's family. It was a fun trip but it was FREEZING!!! The snow was beautiful though!

The whole clan!

We even came across 4 moose! It was awesome! This is by fishing bridge in Island Park

All the snow. The trails were fun to ride on.

A continuation of our animal collection...Zane's sister sent me a text one day stating that she bought Caleb and Emma each a rabbit. Well, Caleb was so excited and luckily Zane's parents already had a rabbit cage so we are now putting it to use. The rabbits are really cute and tame! They love us to pet them. To be honest...I love being back in the country where we can have animals and teach our kids the responsibility of feeding them.

Here is Caleb with Mittens and Bolt.

Emma on Thanksgiving Morning. This is a sweater that a co-worker of Zane's made her when she was born. It's still too big but she's growing into it.

Over Thanksgiving, Zane was able to take a whole week off. It was so nice having him home. While he was here, we painted and decorated Caleb's room.

Caleb's Room

My parents hit their year mark last month! They have been on their mission now for almost 13 months. They sent out a heartwarming email a few weeks ago stating that there are so many American Elders that get packages, mail, and other goodies from their families. There are so many South Africa Elders that come from sad situations and don't have family or much support. They asked if our wards could help with writing letters so these elders would have something to open for Christmas. Our ward went WAY beyond the call of duty! With the help of Zane's parents and our ward, we put together 25 packages full of letters, ties, socks, toothbrushes, and candy for them to have on Christmas. It was such a good feeling knowing that these Elders were going to have something to open. I couldn't get everything into one box so we sent them in two different boxes...they should be flying over the ocean by now!

25 packages that were sent to South Africa

We got our first "REAL" snow storm this past week. The snow stayed around for a few days but is starting to melt away...which I am totally fine about that!

I thought I should take advantage of the snow however and build a snowman with Caleb. It was fun!

Me and Caleb

Just like some of our animals around here, it doesn't look like our snowman is going to last either. This snowman really goes against all the laws of gravity! He is so hunched over that is seems impossible that his head is still attached. This is what happens when it blows 50 mph...our snowman doesn't melt, he just starts to lean.

The Christmas season is here once again and we have pulled out some of the decorations. We did not go all out this year due to child #2. She is into EVERYTHING and stops at nothing! We are keeping it simple!

Emma checking out the lights

Our village on our piano

Stocking above our fireplace

This has been a wonderful year and we are looking forward to Christmas. We have some fun activities planned for the holiday season. We hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New YEAR!

EEEEKKK!

2011-10-28T10:38:00.001-06:00

I just realized how behind I am on our blog! It's funny to see the thickness of my blog books the first year I started blogging. The first one is really thick! (lots of posts) the next one is just thick and then it sadly goes down from there. This years might be too thin to even bind!

Ok, so where to begin??? I have so many random events but we will start with Boise!

Isn't he cute! This is my oldest nephew Jaden. He turned 12 in September. My two sisters and I drove over for a weekend and spent time with my brother and his family. It was awesome! It was neat seeing Jaden get the Priesthood. He is such a good kid and so, so, sooooooo nice!!!

Caleb looking awesome for church

Snapshots of our fun weekend in Boise

The whole Clan that was able to get together.

More randomness!

Over conference weekend, Zane's parents and our family went to the cabin at Palisades. I can't pass up an opportunity to take some pictures of the awesome trees! I love this time of year despite knowing that snow is coming.

Some things in life just seem a little uncertain! I love Emma's facial expression...it says so much!

Oh there! It's just bubbles coming out of that machine...She seems to be ok about it now!

Now that we live in the country we can enjoy flying kites right in our back yard! We love having the space...oh, and the wind!

Tutu time! Emma and her cute cousin Jordynne were playing in their tutu's the other day. They were so cute and Emma was soaking up the attention and fun!

Jordynne and Emma

Max is super protective of our Emma bug! He will sit by her for ever and just love on her. They are pretty cute together. I totally don't dig Max licking on her but she giggles and laughs so I let the licking continue...eeeewwww!

Major goal accomplished! Caleb went to the dentist and seemed to love it. What a relief it was to check that off our list!

Bath time! This girl LOVES the tub! I love making her hair stick up because she has so much of it!

We have been winding down with our summer responsibilities. I made my last trip to the farm and bid our wonderful workers Farewell!!! They are amazing people! They did an incredible job on the farm without my dad being there this year.

The guys cleaning out the balers.

The reaper! This is a massive machine!

Caleb, Emma, and our awesome hired man Lino!

Emma on a hay bale

Caleb on a hale bale

The guys on the farm and Reyna. These guys are awesome and we are so lucky to have them work with us.

Reyna holding 3 chickens and a rooster by their legs. She put them in a box and sent them home with us! Yes, we have added a dog, 3 chickens, 1 rooster, and almost 2 cats to our family in the past 6 weeks! This is what living in the country does to you...and we love it!

Lino and Caleb...they have become close buddies this summer

Emma isnt' afraid of anything! She loves any critter!

Sneak peek of Halloween!

This is what Caleb and I made one afternoon. We made the ghosts out of cheesecloth and then hung spider webs up. We added a few orange lights and Whalaaa! You have a spooky window!

Halloween is soon approaching and we are gearing up for the festivities. Ok, we have actually already gone trick-or-treating once for story time and went trunk-or-treating for Caleb's preschool. Tonight is a Ward party and then lets see...oh, Monday is actually Halloween! What happened to celebrating things once, like on the day the holiday actually is? Funny thing, we probably won't be doing anything on Monday night...we will be all candied out!!!

Caleb dressed as Woody! Emma is dressing up as a Monkey...pictures to come later.

Doesn't he look so sweet??? Let me tell you...remember the pictures of the chickens up above? Well, now only picture 2 chickens and 1 rooster. Yup, don't let his sweetness fool you! As Caleb and I were checking the chicken coupe for eggs, Max came running around the corner and scared two chickens out of the coupe. He grabbed one and had a luscious dinner right in front of Caleb and me. It was awful! There wasn't enough screaming, yelling, or chasing that would stop that dog from enjoying his catch! It left Caleb in tears...I mean, TEARS! It was sad but needless to say, one week later and Caleb is fine.

Ok...I'm wrapping it up. Last picture. This was our sunrise this morning looking out our kitchen window. Seriously...what better way to start the day? I can't think of anything being greater than seeing this each day.

One last thing...Zane and I have already spoke in our ward AND have received new callings. He is teaching the 12 year olds in Sunday School and me...I am an assistant Relief Society teacher and the cub scout den leader for the Bears. Whew...that was a mouthful. There is no doubt we will continue to keep ourselves busy.
Happy Fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving and everything in between!!!

Emma's Birthday, Moving, Fun Run, 5K and more!

2011-09-13T15:35:00.000-06:00

Emma's Birthday Came and went...I only cried twice that day...Not sure if it was because

1. She was turning 1,

2. We were cleaning a house to move into,

3. I was trying to get two kids to their doctor appointment,

4. I was packing up our old house,

5. Trying to get Caleb ready for his fun run,

6. I was in the midst of running a 5K

7. Or if it was ALL OF THE ABOVE!

Needless to say...maybe I was going to cry no matter what...things were just crazy!

I do however have to shout out a HUGE thank you to Zane's parents and my sister and her kids!!! Seriously...we NEVER could had done anything without their help...they saved us!!! They did more than we can ever repay them for...thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

Zane bought me a very nice camera last year for Christmas. I have tried to learn how to use it several times and yet have SOOO much to learn. I decided to take Emma's one year pictures. I usually have them done but I took it upon myself to take them this year. Here are a few I captured.

I also made a ladybug cake...not sure you can tell that from the picture but it was fun making.

Here she is blowing (eating) out her first candle!

Opening Present...she was stoked!

Here is Caleb getting ready to run in his first fun run! It was hilarious! Seconds after the race started, half the kids stopped, started crying, and yelling for their moms! Caleb did that before the race even started so I was by him the whole time...I bet next year he might brave up a bit and run without me...We shall see.

10 years ago when I broke my ankle, I thought I would NEVER run again...2 years ago when I got my ankle fused, I KNEW I would never run again...I have proven myself wrong! I ran my first 5K a few weeks ago and came in at a time of 36:14. I know that's not an incredible time...but for me...it was awesome!

My sister and husband also ran...they did the half marathon...I'm not near as cool as they are!!! We'll see if I ever master that!

Caleb heading to the Rodeo!!! He and I usually go each year with Grandma and Grandpa Mickelsen. We love the rodeo!

This little munchkin has NO FEAR! She loved the animals at the fair this year. They walked right up to her and all she would do was laugh and grab their ears...Too cute!

Zane and I were also able to go the the Ronnie Dunn concert this year at the fair...it was by far THE LOUDEST thing I have ever been to in my life...it was great once we moved seats clear to the other side of the grandstands. My insides were vibrating up to my throat...a very unsettling feeling. Other than that, we really enjoyed the music and being able to spend time together.

More pictures of the farm! We love harvest season! Things are starting to slow down with the farm and it's hard to believe winter will be here soon...blahhh!

So...as you know...we have moved! We are out in the country and loving the room to roam! Here is just a little idea of what we get to experience every night...oh how we love the sunsets!!!

Our new home...and lots of grass to mow!!!

AND...one more thing...

Caleb started pre-school today!!! He did awesome and was so happy to go!

WHEW! That's about it! We have checked off a lot of things on our "to do" lists this past month. We are slowly getting settled in and enjoying this time of year. I really love the Fall!

In Denial!!!

2011-08-20T21:19:00.000-06:00

I can't believe that in 3 short days...our little Emma will be a 1 year old!!! For some reason, this just breaks my heart! I want her to stay little forever! It was nearly 5 years ago we were pregnant with our first baby girl...that ended in devastation and we continued moving on in hopes we could add to our family. A year later we felt so incredibly blessed when we had our sweet Caleb...he too is growing up way too fast and it baffles me that he is already 4 years old. For some reason, I feel like Emma just needs to stay little...her cute little smile, giggle, pig tails, army crawl...everything about her...I want to keep the same! She is such a delight and I realize that I better get a hold of myself within 3 days because ready or not...she's going to be a toddler soon.

We have had a busy August. My parents hit their "Hump Day" this month! They are half way through their mission and I'd be lying if I didn't say how incredibly excited I am for them to be home next spring. We have stayed busy doing work for them, checking on the farm, and making sure things are taken care of.

Hay

Grain just peaking above the ground

Lino and Caleb...these two have so much fun together...Lino is showing Caleb a grasshopper.

Grain Field...Almost ready to be combined!

We always manage to have fun in the process of work. I have started running and am really enjoying it. I actually started about 3 months ago. When I broke my ankle 10 years ago I thought I'd never run again...when I had it fused 2 years ago...I KNEW I would never run again. I have proven myself wrong and am out there every morning running while the sun rises. It's awesome! I am running a 5K in two weeks...I am super excited to know that I can accomplish something like that. I don't imagine I will ever become an avid runner but it's nice to know I can get back out in the fresh air and make my body move!
Here are some other things we have been up to:

Four wheeling at Palisades!

Zip Line at Heise! This was so much fun!

Rexburg Splash Park! Emma had NO FEAR!!!

Caleb enjoying the water!

Ending the day with a merry-go-round ride

Duck Races! This was so much fun!

I am so grateful for my family and the memories we can create with each other. I love that we are close and share the same likes and desires to be outdoors! We have a lot ahead of us these next few weeks...we are in the process of moving. We are excited for the change and ready to be out in the country. The kids will love the space...and so will we!

Lake Powell, Park City, 4th of July, and Caleb's Birthday!!!

2011-07-21T10:20:00.001-06:00

Holy Smokes! I don't know where to begin. We have had such a fun and busy month (or 6 weeks that is). I knew June was going to be busy but I didn't realize it would already be the 21st of July before I started this post!

Summer is flying by like usual. I really hate that is goes by so fast. There is still so much we want to do before the (dreaded word) Winter comes! The summer months are by far WAY too short. Here is a recap of what we have been up to.

Zane, Caleb, and I all journeyed down to Lake Powell for a week! It was awesome! The only hard thing was leaving Emma behind. I just couldn't take her down there in 104 degree weather. For some reason...it just didn't sound like she or I would have fun. We left her with my sister Jill in Utah. The anticipation of leaving her was the worst!!! I called Jill about everyday for two weeks making sure she was ok to watch her and also to see that she had everything she needs to watch a 10 month old. I'm sure I drove Jill NUTS! The time came and left like that! Soon we were in Lake Powell soaking up the sun and getting fried! Here are a few pics of our adventure:

So many pictures I had to create a collage.

Rainbow Bridge

The house boat.

Lake Powell and it's beauty!

Dang...it was HOT!!!!

We really had a great time! After 6 days Zane, Caleb, and I headed back to SLC to pick up Emma. We were so excited to see her. After 7 hours in the car, we were finally there! Once we picked her up, we didn't stop...on to Park City we went! My parents arranged for my brother and two sisters to get together and stay at Park City for a week in a condo. It was great! On Sunday, we went to Temple Square to listen to the spoken word. It was fun to be all together...even though we REALLY missed our parents.

Here are so photos of our time there:

Emma

My 3 siblings and their kids plus us

All of the grand kids! Ranging from 16 years old down to 10 months

SLC Temple

Our family

I know I have posted most of these individually but I still wanted to post them.

Awe...couldn't resist...she's just too photogenic!

We spend the 4th of July in Park City as well. We enjoyed a day full of activities, including a parade, swimming, and an evening of Fireworks.

4th of July Fun!

Caleb with his cousins.

The next day we spent the day at Hogle Zoo. I love that zoo!

An assortment of animals

Talking Parakeet

We even attended a bird show in which this little birdie shown above took flight right out of the zoo! They had to cancel the show and try to find it. 3 hours later they still hadn't caught it.

We decided to cut our trip a bit short so we could get home for Caleb's Birthday! He turned 4 this year and I really just can't believe we have a 4 year old. He is a great kid and loved every minute of his birthday.

Don't laugh...I know it's hideous! He really wanted a Dinosaur Train cake so I did my best.

After all the celebrations we took Caleb to Cars 2 in 3D! I didn't realize at the time that Caleb had on the adult 3D glasses...I made the trade after this pictures.

It has been a fabulous month or two. We are so grateful for such wonderful families to do things with. I really love the summer time and the opportunities it gives us to spend time with each other. Here's to another 2 months of warm weather! (I hope :)

A Month in Review!

2011-06-06T14:30:00.003-06:00

This little bug is now 9 months old! So crazy! This is also her first sucker she's ever had and she was delighted!

Flood Waters around the greenbelt!

My uncle and cousins were here from Arizona for Memorial weekend. We all went out to eat with each other including my grandma.

We went Camping over Memorial weekend with Zane's family. We went up by a place called "Morgans Bridge"
There were so many old buildings, cars, farm equipment...it was a perfect spot to take a lot of pictures. Her is Emma in front of an old school house.

A bunch of old machinery. The river was so full and running fast. I love rivers that flow through the mountains.

Caleb and Dilly...These two are so cute together.

All of us riding through the mountains...This is Emma strapped in the razor ready to ride...she loved it!

Oh and yeah...I NEVER give Emma anything to eat in her car seat...well out of desperation, I handed her a sucker to make her happy...this is why you don't do this...sucker ends up in her hair!
No worries...she still managed to get another one.

Angry Birds??? I love this game so much that I decided to make cupcakes. I thought they turned out pretty accurate!

Emma's first bubble bath! She was thinking this was pretty cool.

Summer is finally here! We have a lot to look forward to in the next coming months...

Pictures!

2011-05-02T21:02:00.001-06:00

It's been another fast month! We have been able to do a lot of fun and exciting things. I will let the pictures tell the story:

Caleb and I were able to go to Pocatello to attend the Rodeo. We went with Zane's parents. It was a lot of fun. Caleb was WAY into watching the horses and cows. He was smiles all night!

Zane's mom gave Emma this dress after she was born. I was hoping it would fit her around Easter time...and it did! She wore it a week before Easter and was an absolute doll! I have to say though...that dress had a lot of layers for her to get lost in...she loved playing with it!

Here are a few pictures taken for Easter Sunday. I couldn't resist dressing Emma up in a ladybug dress after finding this ADORABLE ladybug head band at a Spring Fair. Emma is 8 months old here.

Caleb got a new tie, shirt, and pants. I had him wear them on Easter Sunday. He looked awesome! He was excited to wear a new tie to church. He is so much like his dad...loves a good looking tie!

He wasn't quite as patient as Emma was while taking pictures so he only let me take a couple.

This is just too cute! Emma's first time seeing a bunny. She was so intrigued by it. She loved petting it and checking it out.

We went to Zane's sisters house for Easter. After that I asked if Dylan could come home with us and play with Caleb. We brought him home and he stayed the night. The next day was full of fun and adventure. We all went to the Zoo and I think the boys had a pretty good time.

I love this picture! The boys got too close to the Peacock and it flared up with feathers! It made for two little scared boys but an awesome camera shot for me!

We have so much planned in the next few months. We are excited for summer and can't wait to welcome the warm weather. Rumor has it, the weather is supposed to be nice this week. We shall see!

March

2011-03-31T21:56:00.040-06:00

It's happened again! It's the end of the month and I just now realized I haven't posted anything for March. Things are picking up quite fast. With my parents being gone, I have a few responsibilities with the farm. It's actually keeping me very busy but I love having my feet in the water and being able to see how everything runs. I took the kids out to the farm today and it was so great to see the snow melting away. Soon the fields will be full of green color and everything will be pretty once again.
This month we celebrated Zane's birthday! He is a whopping 28! We had his family over and had a little dinner for him. He wanted a cheesecake for his birthday this year so I took on the challenge to make one. I hate cheesecake so making it seemed even more disgusting to me but he loved it and that's all that mattered!
Here are a few snapshots of what we've been up to.

Emma was sick for a few days. Once she started feeling better I started practicing using my camera on her once again. She just seems to be so happy no matter how many pictures I take of her.

All Ready for Church. So sad this dress no longer fits her. I guess I made it last as long as I could. Here she is almost 7 months old in a size 3 month dress.

Caleb was itching to get outside...honestly, so was I! Rain, snow, wind...whatever it was, we were going to the park! We did AND...because it was such crappy weather...

WE WERE THE ONLY ONES THERE! Kind of an erie feeling having the whole playground to yourself! It was great though! It was raining a little but that didn't stop us from having fun.

Seriously...so happy!

Zane's Birthday cake for when his family came to eat...Cheesecake is not pictured

Caleb and I went to the greenbelt last week. He rode his bike around the whole thing! He did awesome! There were plenty of "whining" moments but overall, he stayed caught up with me and enjoyed being outside.

It's been a great month...I'm excited for April. This is the month for General Conference, the zoo opens, there is a kite festival...so many things to look forward to. Yeah...we made it through another winter...Even if it does keep snowing...I know summer is just around the corner!

Skiing!

2011-02-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

Seriously...I feel like the time can go so slow and then all of a sudden it's almost a new month! Winter always does this to me. We have a great winter though. Zane and I were able to go skiing at Targhee this past week. We had SOOOO much fun! I have not skied since I broke my ankle 11 years ago and have certainly not tried it since I had it fused 2 years ago So...this was an adventure! We dropped our kids off at my sisters house (She is the greatest!!!). She took them for the day and night! After Zane and I hit the slopes, we then went out to dinner. Zane and I really needed time together...It was wonderful! The kids did great at Jodi's.

What a blast!

BRRR! It was -1 degrees at the top! Look at how cold the trees look!

Zane went to pick them up while I went to Rexburg to attend a women's conference. Julie B Beck was presenting. What a way to top off a great weekend! She was fabulous!!!! I was so inspired and realized how very far I have to go to be anything like her. She is truly an amazing women!

Zane also got released as Elders Quorum President yesterday. I will not go into how incredibly excited he was but just know he is a different man today. He really loved his calling...and so did I, BUT, since he was called, we have added a sweet little addition to the family, Zane started school (on top of work), and I have been put in the Relief Society presidency. So you can clearly see that things were a little busy around here.

My parents are doing great on their mission. My dad will be going in for surgery this week. He has to have a lump removed on his neck. Being in South Africa, I do have a bit of anxiety about him having surgery over there. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. I'm sure all will turn out fine.

Well, that about sums up the past month. The kids are great and Caleb has done perfect with being potty trained! I can dare say that now :) He is a great kid! Emma is rolling ALL over the place and continues to just melt our hearts. Here are some pictures for your enjoyment :)

Emma at 6 months

Caleb and Emma

Winter Activities!

(Blowing bubbles!) We used acrylic paint and soap. Get a straw and blow into the pan. Lots and lots of bubbles will form.

We made Buzz Light Year Wings!

I figure if we have a diaper box and tape...we can make anything!

Caleb wanted a dog house for his "stuffed puppy" named Puppy. He also wanted it to have balloons on top of it so it can fly (Just like the movie "up")

Even though these few activities have been fun to make...we are inviting spring to come any day now.

I won't say it out loud...

2011-01-27T21:22:00.037-07:00

I will not say it out loud in fears of jinxing myself BUT... Caleb has been 8 days WITHOUT a plastic/cotton, size 6 product with tabs and silly Disney characters on them, that come in a box at Walmart, Target, Kmart, Shopko, Walgreens...anywhere! We started "This Process" over a year ago (372 days ago!) and I think (and hope) something is starting to click. We have never made it this many days. It will be a welcoming milestone in his life (and ours) if things continue to go well.
Caleb started Primary this month. I really can't believe he is in Primary. He loves it! He loves his teacher and being able to sit and sing and have a lesson. Here is a picture of him on his first day.

Now tell me he doesn't look proud to be going to primary! I love this kid!!!

Zane had to go on a business trip to Texas for a week. I was happy to say that I actually held down the fort quite well. Evenings were hard and I didn't sleep at night but I figured if the kids were fed, dressed, bathed, given attention to, and put to bed, I was doing pretty well. I was so excited for Zane to come home that I was at the airport 30 minutes early just in hopes that his plane would land early. It didn't though...in fact it was 10 minutes late. We had a happy reunion and the kids were excited to see him.

Zane and I were able to take a day and go snow machining with his family. My sister watched Caleb and Emma and we hit the mountains for a day. It was so fun and such a nice break to get out and enjoy the fresh air.

Emma is growing up fast...way too fast. She just turned 5 months and it's killing me! I love her little personality and cute smiles she gives me every time she sees me. She knows how to warm my heart! She is such a good baby! Caleb adores her and I love being able to see the two of them interact so well.

That about sums up our month! Looking forward to February because it's a month closer to summer!

Wrap Up

2010-12-31T17:34:00.006-07:00

It seems like this year has been forever long but yet it seems like we were just welcoming the 2010 year. Am I the only one that feels like "time" does that? We have been so blessed with so many things this year. I am so grateful for my family and our two adorable kids. It's hard to believe that we are a family of 4. I love staying home and being a wife and mom. Zane takes such good care of us and I'm so grateful for him. Because it's hard for my parents to view pictures on their computer in South Africa, I will be posting more pictures than usual for them to see.
So here we go!!!

One of my favorite pictures I took using my new camera.

We had such a great Christmas! I think I was more excited than anyone here! Caleb is at such a fun age! I was sooooo anxious for Christmas morning! It finally came and he was so cute! He was really nervous about going downstairs because he thought Santa was still down there. After we re-assured him that he was gone and only left presents, Caleb was down the stairs. It was a nice morning. We made our traditional "Caramel Pull-Aparts." We can not have a Christmas without them. We love them! Here are a few pics of our day:

Zane and Caleb got Nerf Guns. Perfect toy for the both of them! Caleb also got the famous 1975 Fisher Price Vintage Train Set. This is a popular toy for all the grand kids and my parents made me promise I wouldn't take theirs while they are on their mission. I kept my promise but found the exact train on e-bay! Saweeet! Caleb plays with it non-stop!

This past week we spent our time up at Palisades. We went to Mickelsen's cabin and played in the snow, ate, got stuck a few times, played in the snow again, ate...you get the idea. It was a lot of fun! We had a few minor accidents that could had turned into bad ones but we all made it back safe and sound. Here are a few pictures of our week:

The cabin and all it's surroundings.

Emma spent most her days in the cabin. She was all smiles! Caleb and Dylan had the same shirts on so when I took their picture Dylan put the popcorn tin over his head.

Snow machining! This was so much fun! We did a lot of sledding and snowball throwing. We really loved being out in the snow.

Caleb and me in the sled getting pulled behind the snow machine. I really could had done this all day! I loved it!

Happy New year to you all!

Emma Bug

2010-12-24T12:02:00.002-07:00

I have soooo much to post but honestly...when is there time??? So, in a nutshell, I still haven't gotten used to the fact that my parents are half way around the world...I know...I need to get over it. But...I am super excited for Christmas and am anxious to see Caleb's excitement in the morning! I love this age! For an early Christmas gift Zane gave me a new Nikon camera. I am sooooo in love with it! I really know nothing about it but Emma agreed to be my model for this morning. Here are a few shots I took of her. I'm sure there will be PLENTY more to come.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Saying Goodbye

2010-12-05T19:31:00.004-07:00

I know...you all must be thinking that I need to stop talking about my parents leaving on their mission but it is just such a BIG chapter in all of our lives. We actually did it though...we said goodbye and I am happy to say that I lived through it. We had a small little get together the day before they flew out at our house. It was great being able to eat and mingle with everyone.

Eating their last delicious super before leaving the country

Jodi's family and my Grandma

What is a party without a picture of Emma. She is so stinken fun!

(Sigh...) The day finally came. Emma and I picked my parents up at their house and took them to the airport. Zane got Caleb ready and met us there. This is right before we gave each other lots of hugs.

All of us...so early in the morning.

Precious...Saying goodbye to their little buddy (sniff, sniff). I bawled at this. These three adore each other. (Emma is not sure what is going on)

Saying goodbye didn't hit me as much as when we stood outside and watched them take off. As I watched the plane disappear in the distance my emotions broke loose and I really didn't pull myself together for the next 24 hours. I know I must sound pathetic but the hardest thing is not having them here to see all the fun developments our kids make but yet on the flip side, the most wonderful thing is the example they are setting for our kids. What a remarkable adventure they are able to take. The people in South Africa are going to adore them and if I'm required to share a part of them for 18 months, I think I can do that.
I am keeping a blog for them which I will update weekly. If you have a burning desire to see what they are up to, just click on their picture located at the top of the sidebar.

Just for fun...Caleb and I made a snowman...he's been asking for 2 weeks to do this and it finally got warm enough for us to venture outside. We had a blast!

Changes

2010-11-16T03:20:00.004-07:00

We finally did it...we said goodbye to my parents as they entered the MTC. Even though you prepare for these changes, for some reason, it still doesn't make it any easier. We are excited for them to embark on such an adventure but will miss them so much. We will get to see them one more time before they fly out so we are looking forward to that. I am keeping a blog for them while they are serving so if you are curious as to how they are doing, you can click on their picture to the right and it will take you to their blog.
Other changes that are hard to get used to is seeing how fast our Emma bug is growing! She is soooooo much fun! We can't get enough of her smiles, cooing, and her likes of being cuddled. We are so incredibly busy but love being a little family of 4. Caleb is such an awesome big brother and kisses his sister every chance he gets. I love seeing the two of them together.

Emma is getting to be quite the smiler, she is so stinken fun!

Caleb and Emma with their new church clothes grandma and grandpa bought them

Emma all ready for church

Two weeks ago, my family had an early Thanksgiving/Christmas party. Here is a picture of all the grand kids. Ok...so Caleb would not stop screaming! He did not want his picture taken. So, in all the pictures he was crying and I decided to photo shop his head...just for fun. Don't look too close but he actually wasn't happy at all despite what this picture tells. I took his head off a birthday picture from last summer and put it over the one in this picture. Ha...love photo shop.

The night my parents got set apart. This was just before we said goodbye to each other.
Changes are good, just hard at times. I've never been one to easily adapt to them. Over the next year and a half, I'm excited to meet the people my parents get to serve with and to enjoy this journey with them. We are so incredibly blessed and am lucky to have such an amazing husband and kids.

Fall Memories

2010-11-03T21:39:00.008-06:00

It scares me to see how fast the time is going by. I feel as if time is flying by me and I can't seem to get it to slow down. I guess that is a good thing in a way...I'm staying busy. We had a great October and we are excited for Thanksgiving and Christmas to come. I really love the holidays. It will be quite different this year however. My parents are scheduled to leave for their mission in 12 days and to be quite honest...I'm terrified of not having them close by. My parents mean so much to us and we feel that it's such a blessing living so close to them. We are excited for them to embark on such a great adventure though. So with that...here are some pictures of what we have been up to.

Taking Caleb for a bike ride. We try to get out every chance we get, especially when the weather is nice.

Running down a hill. He did this forever.

Caleb and Emma. They really do adore each other.

Our idea of carving pumpkins...fun, cheap, clean, and quick!

Zane's mom, sisters, and I went on a girls night out to the Haunted Mill. It was a lot of fun.

Emma...This was her Halloween costume.

Standing in line to go trick-or-treating. Caleb was happier once his bucket was stashed full of candy.

Completely Zonked out! This is pure proof that we had a great Halloween.

Love this photo! He jumped in the leafs for hours! I couldn't get enough of watching him do this.

More fun!
Wow...that was a mouthful. Zane is still busy with work, school, and being E.Q. President. I am in the relief society presidency as well so there really is never a quiet moment here. By the looks of it though...we still find plenty of time to have fun with each other.

Gymnastics

2010-10-12T16:33:00.001-06:00

Wow...what a month! I can't even begin to write on what a change bring home baby #2 has been. We have been so incredibly blessed but I had no idea my schedule was going to change quite like it has. It was a cold and rainy day a few weeks ago and Emma was only two weeks old...and cried non-stop. I was struggling...bad. I was trying to figure out how to adjust to taking care of two kids plus making sure Zane had what he needed. I was a mess! I decided that I had to get out of the house...and this is what I ended up doing...signing Caleb up for Gymnastics. It has been wonderful! He LOVES it and so do I. I love taking him and watching him grow socially. It's been great. Now that Emma is 7 weeks old, I think I am finally figuring out how to manage life with two kids...it really is a joy and blessing being a mom.

Here are a few pics of Emma. I caught her smiling one night before her bath...so cute! We blessed her when she was only 3 weeks old due to the fact that my parents were leaving on their mission and their farewell was the same day. She was tiny but I wanted them to be there and it worked well for Zane's family too.
All in all, life has been really busy. Emma has acid reflux and colic really bad. She is taking medication to try and help her. She seems to be having better days than not. It's been a rough go for the first little bit but we have managed to function off little to no sleep. As she's getting older and developing more, I notice her little body getting use to her new environment.
I can't be happier with two darling kids and a great husband. I love them so much! We truly are a blessed family.

Professional Photos

2010-09-10T23:58:00.000-06:00

Here are some photos taken of Caleb and Emma. A gal that lives in Blackfoot took them. You can check out her website at carolynandersonphoto.blogspot.com
She did an awesome job and worked so well with kids.
So Sweet! Caleb loves his sister!

Here are just a few of my favorite pictures of Emma...there were so many to choose from it was hard to narrow it down.

Here are some of Caleb that I just love.

She has a name!

2010-08-30T23:55:00.000-06:00

I was told I left everyone hanging by not announcing baby Mickelsen's name. I posted the last pictures using my phone from the hospital and we didn't have a name until right before we came home. So with that...we have named her Emma Jane. She is a bundle of joy and we can't get enough of her especially with all of her hair. Caleb loves having Emma to play with even though she just stares at him. He thinks she's pretty funny and usually just sits and laughs by her. They are cute together. Here are a few more pictures to share.

A bunch of pics taken at the hospital.

We Love Dr. Nelson! She has a special place in our hearts. Aren't they cute together!

Caleb kissing Emma. This is usually where I find Caleb, right next to Emma

Sleeping so well.

It's really hard to believe we have two kids now. It's been a bit of an adjustment but it's so fun seeing Caleb interact with her. We are so blessed!

sneak peek

2010-08-24T06:46:00.004-06:00

Here's a little sneak peek of baby girl mickelsen. More pictures to come. She was born at 6:21 pm on
Aug 23. She was 7 pounds 11 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long. Everyone is doing super!

Bye July!

2010-07-31T23:55:00.000-06:00

Wow, it is already August and I feel like summer has just begun. We managed to have a garage sale this month, go to Boise, attend a family reunion, see the Blue Angels, and take Caleb to his swim lessons for two weeks. It's been an awesome month with so many fun memories to be had.

Here are the Blue Angels. Lucky for us our backyard is the airport so we got to see them practice for a few days and then Zane's parents spoiled us and bought us tickets to go inside the airport and hang out at their friends hanger. We had a BBQ and sat in the shade and enjoyed all the cool acts in the air.

This year we decided to sign Caleb up for private swim lessons. We felt he'd do better that way. His teacher was awesome and she was so patient with him. It was fun seeing him in the water getting braver as each day passed by. We can't wait to do it again next year.

This next week is a big one for us. We will be removing the "Cerclage" and then any day is a go for labor. We went almost two weeks with Caleb after having it removed so I figure it will be the same this time around so I'm not anticipating an early arrival. We still have over 3 weeks left till our due date but we are getting closer.

Baby's Room

2010-07-16T18:17:00.004-06:00

Zane and I have yet to determine what we are going to name our "soon to be" new arrival. We are 6 weeks from our due date. One thing is for sure however...we have completed the baby's room and we both really love it.

BEFORE:
Here is what the room used to look like:

We certainly have not grown close to the rainbow wall since we've moved in so I was happy to paint over it. Bye, bye Rainbow!

Dark carpet that was moments from being pulled up.

AFTER:
Here is the Now:

We pulled out all the carpet because I love the hardwood floors that are underneath them. We painted, put up new trim, and built a closet organizer (not pictured). I also made the curtains above the window (with a lot of help from my sister). We wanted to create a boy/girl room and found this wallpaper on-line from England. We had it shipped to us and we really love it. There is some vinyl I'll probably end up doing later but here is what we have accomplished so far.
Zane did almost all the work in this room. I think he did an awesome job. I helped with a few things but he put the most sweat and work into it. I love how bright and colorful it is now. The only thing left now is agreeing on a name.

Birthday Celebration

2010-07-08T06:26:00.007-06:00

For the past two weeks Caleb has not stopped saying "My birthday soon." He has been SO excited about his special day. So it finally came...Caleb turned 3 yesterday! It's hard to believe we have a 3 year old already. He is such a great kid and we love everything about him. Here are a few pictures of what our week and day were like. For some reason, we seem to celebrate birthdays all week long. We just can't get enough of the excitement.
We have another family party this Saturday. Looking forward to more fun!

A few days ago we drove up to Mesa Falls to see the "BIG Waterfalls" as Caleb would say it. They were beautiful! The mountain side was so green and pretty. I love this place but we don't seem to get there very often.

We were going to wait until Zane got off work to open presents but the first thing Caleb said when he woke up was "Birthday Please..." meaning he wanted to open his presents. We let him open a few and then waited until the evening to finish the rest.

Oh my...Check out this awesome cake! My friend made it for Caleb...He was ecstatic! The first thing he said when he saw it was..."Oh Wow!" She did an amazing job. The only thing Caleb would talk about was how he wanted a blue, green, red, and yellow train cake for his birthday. She certainly met his expectations.

We had planned on taking Caleb to a movie for his birthday but he just pleaded with us to stay home and play with his toys. He said he wanted to go another night so we spent the evening playing with him and figuring out how to play with his new treasures.

Thanks to everyone that texted, called, came over, and shouted out a Happy Birthday to Caleb. He felt loved and spoiled. We appreciate all of you.

Happy Birthday Caleb!!! We Love you!!!

Disneyland!

2010-06-29T16:34:00.001-06:00

This past week my whole family (consisting of 21 of us) went to Disneyland to enjoy a week of fun and adventure. Every summer we all get together and go somewhere for a week. This trip has been in the works for nearly a year now and I can't believe it has come and gone. We can now hold onto the the many memories made there and talk about them for years to come. Here are a few of the 197 pictures I took.

Caleb was the only kid on one of the plane rides so he got a bit spoiled by the pilots. They let him go check out all the controls in the plane and he even got to wear their hat.

This is what Caleb does with the food he got on the plane...he plays peek-a-boo. We were getting tired of flying by this time.

Us three (four technically) at the airport.

TOON TOWN! What a fun place! This is were we got to meet Mickey. It's all Caleb could talk about and then when the time came to meet him...He wanted outta there! We still managed to get a picture though.

California Adventure! Awesome park! There were a lot of things to do here including the ride "Soaring over California" It was great.

Lightening McQueen and Mater! Caleb was stoked about this. He loves "Cars" and was thrilled to meet his two favorite characters.

Every night at 9:30 they would put on a huge firework show behind the Disney Castle. It was fun to see them.

The Beach! I love the beach. I could hang out there all day and just play in the sand and water. It was a bit toasty though.

Lego Land. I had never been here before but thought it was fun. Everything is made out of Lego's...see that picture with the buildings and little people??? All Lego's! It's fascinating. Lots of things to do with the little kids too.

This was AWESOME! This is the new "World of Color" show put on at California Adventure. It was so pretty and fun to watch. I have tried for days to upload the video I took of this but blogger is giving me fits big time so there is no video to see.

Does this face tell you that Caleb had the time of his life? He really did but to me...he is looking pretty worn out by day 6. We were on a busy schedule and did a ton of stuff.

Just a picture from the airplane...I thought the clouds looked really cool below us.

Thanks Mom and Dad for taking us all to Disneyland and giving us all the memories we have to hold on to. We loved every minute of it and can't thank you enough for all you do for us!

Concert

2010-06-20T06:38:00.002-06:00

Last week Zane took me to a concert to see Richie McDonald perform. He used to be the lead singer for Lonstar. I have to admit...I didn't have a clue who Lonstar was let alone Richie McDonald. I am awful when it come to artists and their music. Zane tells me all the time to listen to the words of a song and pretty soon I find myself thinking about something else and having no clue what the song was about.
The night of the concert was awesome though! This guy told a story to every song and then he would sing it. I loved it! Now I am hooked on his music and can even focus on the words now. I was even tempted to buy a CD until Zane told me he had every one and that I could just borrow his...Thanks Sweetie!

Lesson of the Day

2010-06-14T16:55:00.004-06:00

Knives and Garbage disposals do not go together.

Lucky for me, I was able to use my past college experiences to fix the disposal. Sorry to say, the knife could not be saved.

Enjoying the Wilderness

2010-06-10T02:49:00.001-06:00

Now that I have had at least 10 days to let my parents mission sink in I think I'm ready to move on in life and get caught up on my blog.
So here goes:
Last week we were able to go camping with Zane's family. It was a lot of fun. We experienced, rain, snow, wind, and a little sunshine. The joys of being out in the middle of nowhere is that you get to adapt to no matter what the weather is.

Caleb spent most of his time down by this water throwing in rocks. He loved it!

Zane and Caleb on top of the mountain.

This was so cool! I am fascinated with mines, caves, tunnels...you name it. Anything that has history. This is an old mine that is now locked up but you could still see back into it. Wish we could had gone in.

The three of us outside the mine.

Caleb ready to ride!

Learning how to master eating while sitting on a camping chair.

Me and Caleb going for a small morning ride.

These two are so mischievous when together. Just look at the face on Dylan...He has some idea stirring around in his mind. They can entertain each other all day!

This past weekend we also celebrated my Mom's b-day and my nieces baptism. The whole Zweifel clan was there. It was a great weekend!

Called To Serve

2010-06-03T10:32:00.000-06:00

After waiting nearly 3 weeks my parents finally got their mission call. I have to admit...I was (and still am) a bit shocked. The call came a day later than we expected so Zane and I were off camping (another post to come) so we had to call home to listen to my parents read their call. They are going to South Africa! I just sobbed! How are we going to be able to visit them so far away? They will be gone for 18 months but my parents are thrilled.
We as a family all guessed where they were going. When Caleb put his finger on the map that pointed to South Africa, I laughed and said "Caleb point somewhere else." My dad wouldn't let him and therefore, Caleb guessed the right place. We are excited for them to embark on this new adventure in their life. I'm excited to start a blog for them and to keep family and friends updated on their service and to teach our kids about what they are doing. I imagine it will be the hardest telling them goodbye but thank heavens for Skype and International Cell phones, I will still have some communication with them.

Just in case you are wondering, here is a world map where you can see how far away from home they will be. I guess the good thing is, it only takes 40 hours of travel time to get there. Less than 2 days! Yeah...that still really doesn't make me feel much better.

Spring Doings

2010-05-11T15:59:00.004-06:00

Wow...a lot has been going on here and I think I have tried for a week to update my blog. So here I am finally doing it.
This past week I was put into the Relief Society Presidency. This will bring with it a lot of work and blessings. Having Zane as the Elders Quorum President will surely keep us on our toes. I am ready to dive in and learn though.

About a month ago we learned that Caleb was chosen out of several students to attend a new toddler lab put on by the state. There were only two kids out of 40 that were selected so we were really excited. He goes to class every Tuesday and stays with the teachers (Without Me!) for an hour and a half. He does a lot of hand-on activities and gets to play with a lot of toys. He loves it and always tells me everything he got to do.

We have a also been doing some work in the yard. I love this picture because Caleb always has to be at Zane's side when outside working. He even gets his little shovel and gets to work. So fun to have a 2 year old!

This is just another funny picture. Caleb loves to sort things. While in the tub the other night he felt the need to sort all his letters by color. I would say that he did a pretty dang good job.

We are having A...

2010-04-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

GIRL!!!
We are so excited and can't wait to meet this little lady! Yesterday we had our ultrasound and the whole time Caleb just kept saying "Baby, I love you." It was adorable! He's going to be an awesome big brother!

They Came!

2010-04-07T16:31:00.007-06:00

Never mind the big mess in the background but what can you do when you are this happy playing with all sorts of New Discovery Toys! My kit came and needless to say this has been Caleb's face ever since. I have to remind him that they are "mom's toys" but he is welcomed to play with them and have fun. I don't want him to get the idea that we just bought a bunch of toys for him. I am excited to start this new business and am getting anxious to have my first Grand opening party in Utah this weekend!

We spent a lot of time with Family this weekend. We had Easter egg hunts and even colored Easter Eggs. This was a fun year because Caleb is starting to understand things a lot more.

Caleb and a few of his cousins at my parents house.

My mom and Caleb. These two are so cute together and he ADORES her!

Zane had his 27Th Birthday in March. We didn't get a ton of pictures but he had fun with his presents and then going down to Reed's Dairy to get ice cream.

Caleb LOVES letters. He is fascinated with them and their sounds. One day he was laying his alphabet flashcards on the floor and then next thing I know he had gone upstairs and got his foam alphabet bath toys and matched every letter to the flashcard. Honesty...I thought "not bad for a 2 year old." Apparently we have 5 foam letters missing so we are still on the hunt for them.

I'll be posting more information about Discovery Toys. Now that I have my kit it's fun to show people the toys and let them play with them. Seriously...they are addicting! Even Zane found himself having a bit of fun.

Introducing...

2010-04-02T11:43:00.004-06:00

My new Business! That's right...I think I have a mixture of emotions, excitements, worries, and eagerness with this job. I have decided to become part of Discovery Toys. Ever since I have stopped teaching school I have still held on to the love of working with kids and doing whatever I can to help them in their education. Discovery Toys is right up my alley and I can't wait to get the ball rolling. I have been in a lot of training this week and my first Grand Opening party will be in Utah next weekend. I will be having a lot of parties and different opportunities here for people to learn more about Discovery Toys and to see the benefits they bring. What more fun could you have than playing with toys all day!!! Stay tune for more information. For now you can check out this website to learn about some of the products I'll be selling. Plus there is a whole lot of other exciting news happening too so I'll update on that later. Happy exploring!
Discoverytoys.com

Fall Vs Spring

2010-03-12T15:14:00.004-07:00

I find it funny that Fall and Spring often bring with them similar temperatures but for some reason when it's 40 degree's outside in the Spring we shout "Hooray!" and run outside with our shorts and T's. In the fall when it's 40, we complain about how cold it is and cuddle up in a warm blanket to watch a movie. Is it because our minds are telling us it's high time to get outside and go do something fun? Well, it was a great day today to go out and play. Yes is was only 40 degrees, and...

no I didn't have a coat on our child because it was just to much fun watching him play without so many layers.

Oh...and yes that is still snow on the ground but of course that is easily overlooked when you're having this much fun.

And...What's a day at the park without bubbles.
Awe...what a good day.

It's March!!!

2010-03-01T18:46:00.000-07:00

So many things have taken place and will be taking place I don't even know where to begin. All I can really say is WELCOME MARCH!!! I love March 1st. I love that it's the month that Spring arrives. I love the sun, the warm weather, the happy mood I'm in. I find myself just grinning from ear to ear watching the snow melt away. I do find joy in winter but this last one has really been different. We have A Lot to look forward to this summer so I guess I'm just getting excited :)
Caleb and I fed the ducks the other day and it was great to be by the river again. All was going well until this moment...

This crazy goose bit Caleb's finger and Caleb was ticked. I hate those things...they are so aggressive! We try to not feed them. We also tried potty training last week but...we threw in the towel. Simple fact...Caleb is just not ready and that's ok. We'll give it another try in a month or so.
Anyway, Zane and I have a big day tomorrow...one I'm looking forward to getting behind us. As for now, I have much laundry to fold, dinner to make, Caleb's bag to pack, ironing to do, and a yummy pie to eat that my dear friend Kellie brought to us.

Do I get a Gold Star?

2010-02-16T11:34:00.007-07:00

I don't think I've ever deserved a gold star in my life until yesterday. We have a great amount of snow in our backyard. So much that you can't even get to our swing set. Caleb looks out the window everyday asking to go down the slide and to swing. I always tell him there is too much snow and that we'll have to find something else to do. Well, yesterday I felt all pumped up and ready to take on the snow. I decided that it was high time for Caleb to play outside again despite the two feet of snow. I took a shovel and plowed a path out to the swing set, around the slide and teeter totter. It was the funnest I've ever had shoveling snow. Caleb was on cloud 9! He was so excited to have a way to get to the swings and to not sink in the snow. He played for nearly two hours! Awwwwe, it was nice :)

You can't beat a smile like that!

Fish

2010-02-09T14:28:00.003-07:00

Yesterday I took Caleb to the library for story time. We do this each week but yesterday they seemed to have a craft that was more age appropriate and interesting so I thought I'd share. This fish is just made up of construction paper with contact paper on the back (sticky side). Then it just has colorful tissue paper that the kids could stick onto the contact paper without having to use glue. Very cleaver. I loved that Caleb could just stick the paper on the back and that I didn't end up doing the craft for him. Usually the crafts are a bit advanced so it was nice this was so easy and cute.

3D Experience

2010-02-04T15:43:00.004-07:00

First of all, watching the trailer to Avatar made me think of how much I didn't want to see it. I mean seriously, blue giant people that have tails and ride on dragons. It's really not for me, then all the talk...everyone was saying what a cool movie it was. The icebreaker was when my parents couldn't stop talking about it. They loved it. So, they offered to take Caleb for the night while Zane and I went to see it in 3D. The results...WEIRD, but well done. I actually did kind of like it in it's own way. I found myself at times feeling like I needed to brush that butterfly off my nose or remove the leaf that felt like landed on my head. 3D is a whole new experience but in the end, my head hurt and I wasn't seeing straight. They say that in ten years we'll be able to watch 3D in our homes. It will be the new way of watching TV. I'm not sure how I feel about that especially if this is how we'll look just to sit down and watch a show.

My friend nailed it...We are nerds!

All in all, I would say it's a ONE time must see. You can decide from there. I don't believe however it will ever end up on our shelf once it comes out for sale.

Time Away

2010-01-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

This past week Caleb was able to go see his grandparents for two days. I almost feel guilty admitting to how nice it was to clean our house and do the laundry with no interruptions. My parents got home last night from being in Arizona so my mom came over for a few hours and helped me clean. When all was said and done I didn't want to cook or even walk on the floors. Everything was so tidy. Zane and I even went out to dinner together. I think Caleb was having a serious case of cabin fever and going to his grandparents really helped him to get out a bit. They do a lot of fun things with him while he is there. He loves it. Here are a few pictures of him riding horses and playing with his little cousin. Even though I got a million things done while he was gone, I still missed him more than anything and was excited to have him back home. It's not very often we don't do Everything together but I think it was good for the both of us to do something different for a day.

Caleb and Grandma Mickelsen

Caleb and Dylan

Now with Grandpa Mickelsen

Barrel Racing!

Last night the whole Mickelsen clan went out to eat at Stockmans. It was yummy food with a lot of laughter but nothing topped how crazy we all were to eat desserts that cost more than our food alone. We never get dessert but I guess we all had a craving for it last night. Here are two of the desserts that sent us all home feeling like...well you know.

As Zane's mom said, this was a half a gallon of ice cream with three cans of redi whip. Ok not really but for real...check out the size of this thing.

Shayna and Jordynne before they dived in.

Apparently these two didn't eat to make themselves sick cause they were still smiling.

What great memories :)

Winter Woes

2010-01-25T20:33:00.004-07:00

I keep thinking I need to update my blog but honestly...I have nothing to say. I know...that never happens but I feel like January has gone by fast but yet Christmas feels like it was months ago! How does that happen? Time just seems funny right now. We have been trying to do fun things to past the cold winter days along but in all honesty...I'm ready for summer. I have been quite disturbed over what is happening in Haiti and I guess I shouldn't allow myself to dwell so much on it. I had a mission companion from Haiti. I wonder how she and her family are doing. It's devastating.
Zane has been super busy with work and school so Caleb and I usually venture out doing this...

And this...

So with that...nothing overly exciting...just didn't want to abandon my blog for too long.

Snow fun!

2010-01-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

The Cabin

Finger Painting

Sledding with my parents and nieces

We had a great Christmas and New Years. We spent Christmas here at home and had a nice dinner with my parents at their house. We then went up to the cabin and stayed for a few days. We have also been trying to find things to do in these cold temperatures. We have done a lot of finger painting, game playing, and book reading. We have managed to sneak out when it gets above 10 degrees and go sledding.

Caleb broke out in hives and had his first ear infection this past week. I took him to the doctor and of course "puppy" had to come as well. The puppy checked out to be fine other than he only weighs 6 ounces. Not bad for a stuffed pup. The doctor checked the puppies ears and of course when Caleb saw that, he was fine about the doc checking him out. Amazing what a stuffed animal can do for your kids. All is well now. Puppy and Caleb are both feeling much better.

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

Awe....so sweet. Let Christmas Come!

Gingerbread House

2009-12-23T08:32:00.002-07:00

Need I say more...he was in heaven with all the candy, frosting, and fun.

Ho! Ho! Ho!

2009-12-21T14:37:00.004-07:00

This past weekend we had our BIG Zweifel Christmas party at my parents house. It was a blast! My mom and dad go to Extreme measure to assure everyone is having a fun time. They out did themselves once again. We had great food and fun. The most exiting of it all was that Santa came running through their front door and surprised all 11 grandkids with a stocking full of prizes. This was a HUGE thing for Caleb seems that he HATES seeing Santa even a mile away. But it's all changed now and simply because of this little girl

Riley is the 5Th girl of my oldest sister. Caleb LOVES her! She is 9 months younger than Caleb and he watches every move she makes. They play really well together. Once Riley sat on Santa's lap Caleb just laughed and said "Riley! Santa lap!!!" It was hilarious. Caleb then felt courageous enough to try it and he did pretty darn well.

The before picture...Caleb would not even look at Santa. It was almost like he was thinking "If I don't look, then he'll just go away"

Making progress! Santa was so good with Caleb.

After 8 hours of non-stop eating, laughter, and fun, we went home to get ready for another party. This time we left Caleb home with a babysitter (I know...huge!) Ok...honestly, he was in bed and didn't even know he had a babysitter.

Anyway we went over to some friends home and played Christmas pictionary and then we pulled out the karaoke machine. Not funny! Ok, it really was but oh my gosh...my cheeks were still hurting yesterday from laughing so hard and everyone singing and shouting out their best Ho! Ho! Ho! It was awesome!

Yesterday in church, Zane and I were able to play the Christmas song on the piano we have been preparing for over 6 weeks now. It was a relief to have it over but I will miss practicing with him. I guess we'll have to find a new song to play together. Anyway, I love this time of year and love the beauty of the true Christmas Season.

Merry Christmas to all!

I'm retiring from washing dishes!

2009-12-19T07:20:00.003-07:00

Ever since we moved into our home (2 years ago) our dishwasher has not worked. It wouldn't wash, dry, clean...you name it. Well, after HAND washing dishes for many many months, my dream came true...A Dishwasher! Zane's parents bought us one for Christmas and I'm happy to say, the dish drainer is OUTTA here and our Maytag has moved in! Oh happy day!

I realize most people don't get a picture with their dishwasher but after two years...I couldn't contain my happiness!

Isn't she a beauty!!! I couldn't help but think of how happy the dishes were to be inside of it getting a very HOT wash.

Closet Organizer

2009-12-12T15:09:00.003-07:00

Last weekend Zane and I tore our closet apart and re-did it. It was a fun little project that we are hoping to do to all the closets. I can't believe how nice it is to have a closet that's easy to organize. It was pretty easy but just took a lot of time cutting all the wood and painting it but we both enjoy doing stuff like this. Here's to a new closet!

Before...

After. Awe....so fun.

Baby Jesus!

2009-12-07T05:22:00.000-07:00

Maybe only Zane and I will think this was funny but it's something I want to remember for a long time. Caleb has started comparing things quite a bit lately. He is saying more and more words that usually has Zane and I laughing pretty hard. Caleb is really getting into the Christmas Season this year which is a lot of fun. On our piano sits this little Nativity scene. Every time Caleb looks at it he gets so excited and exclaims "Baby Jesus!"

We always get excited with him and tell him stories of Jesus. He loves it. Well, yesterday when we got home from church I was cooking dinner and Caleb came running into the kitchen yelling "Mom! Baby Jesus!" I turned around and saw Caleb holding this:

Apparently this Ronald McDonald toy looks a lot like Baby Jesus lying in his manger.

Going, Going, Gone!

2009-12-05T06:53:00.007-07:00

This has been a phrase said a lot lately. We have tapped, banged, tweaked, and loved our laptop as long as we possibly could, but in the end...it could no longer go on. I love this laptop and it's been my line of communication to the outside world for several years. We have spent a lot of time together. I suppose with most things however that there comes a time when you have to say goodbye. That time is now. I know most of you don't get attached to silly things like a computer but it has so much valuable information on it that I hate to not have. Anyway, Zane and I spent 4 hours computer shopping yesterday. We found a good deal on a desktop so I am happy about that. As for now...check out the system I have come up with to still use my laptop until our new computer arrives.

Yes...it is a Dino monitor! It rocks!!! The monitor on our laptop is fried and can no longer show a nice crisp picture (In fact it shows no picture at all). I searched for some cords and found the perfect solution to get this monitor up and running again! I'm living in the 80's! Wahoo!

Ok...I just had to take this picture. Zane and I are practicing a piano duet to play for a few festivities this coming Christmas. Caleb can't stand the fact that he's not a part of it. Zane and I have sat together on this bench for several hours perfecting our song. Caleb is usually right in the middle of us or hanging on my arm starving for attention. The minute I get off the bench this is where he dives for...to sit by Zane. Zane has practiced many times with Caleb to his side. We might just have to start piano lessons for the little guy.

Gobble, Gobble

2009-12-01T20:13:00.009-07:00

It has been another fabulous Thanksgiving Holiday. We were able to spend a few days up at Zane's parents cabin where we also indulged on wonderful juicy turkey and luscious rolls and salads. It was great. I guess I was either too busy making Caleb's Christmas blanket or having too much fun because I completely forgot to take any pictures. I will do better next time.

My family all met in SLC to go see the lights together. Everyone was going to be there except for us so I got a far out crazy idea and asked Zane if we could travel down to SLC from Palisades on Friday to go meet up with my family to see the lights. He so graciously said yes and off we went. We managed to make it through the windy roads of Soda Springs and out to the Freeway. It was the THE longest road I've ever been on but I couldn't complain...I mean, we were taking this trip to SLC for me.

We got to Layton and met up at my sisters house with all the other 19 family members. We managed to get this little photo of all of us. We are a handful when we are together but it's fun. We then hopped on a train for a 40 minute ride down to SLC. It was awesome! As most of you know, I am fascinated with trains so I loved this adventure! We then saw the lights and made the 3 hour drive back home that same day. I know...I was crazy to want to do that but it was worth it.

The whole Clan!

On the train! It was great!

Caleb and my parents

Caleb loved looking out the window. He was having a good time.

Loved the red tree! There wasn't a branch without a light.

We had to see all the water fountains due to Caleb wanting to watch them.

SLC Temple. It was freezing!

The three of us.

It was a fun filled weekend that allowed us to spend lots of time with our families who we love and appreciate so very much.

How pumpkin pie is made

2009-11-23T16:12:00.002-07:00

So I realize this may not be the most appropriate picture but I HATE pumpkin pie and this is the perfect picture to explain why. Seriously...this is what it looks and smells like. With that note...Hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Sleep Eating

2009-11-04T18:49:00.003-07:00

Caleb does not want to nap during the day anymore but I still make him have quiet time in his room. Because he won't nap, he is extremely tired by the end of the day. He goes to bed real early now but seldom makes it through eating dinner cause he's so tired....see for yourselves...hilarious!

Boo at the Zoo!

2009-10-29T21:37:00.004-06:00

Zane and I took Caleb to "Boo at the Zoo." I was worried about taking him in fear that he might still be too little but...He LOVED it!!! We went to the Zoo a lot this past summer and I was happy to see that he remembered the place so well. It was fun going from booth to booth getting all sorts of fun things. I thought it was funny that half the booths set up were dentist's handing out candy and then toothbrushes. It was great fun and I'm glad Caleb loved it too.

How does he know???

2009-10-27T20:38:00.003-06:00

Lately Caleb has been getting up "way too early" in the morning. I realized that it might be due to the fact that our lamps in our living room come on about 5:30 am and he can see them. They are set on timers. So last week I changed the timers so the lights would come on later. Perfect! I thought until last night. Is it the fact that I was going to attend the temple at 5:00 am that made Caleb not want to sleep all night? How would he know that I was going to be gone??? I didn't even tell him. Well, I was down in my kitchen around 11:30 last night working on some stuff. All of a sudden, I hear these little feet coming down the stairs. Apparently he saw the light on and felt it was time to get up. Needless to say, he didn't go back to sleep until 3:00 am!!! He kept coming out of his room and then I'd take him back. I was tired but loved that I could try and comfort him. I got an hour of sleep and then got up at 4:00 to attend the 5:00 a.m. session. When I got up I noticed little feet over by Zane...yes the little toad was in our bed! This is a huge rule we have never broken. Zane and I both feel that Caleb needs to sleep in his own bed but apparently he got away with it for the first time. I was honesty too tired to care. It seems like Caleb always knows when there's going to be a slight change in his schedule whether I tell him or not. Crazy how that happens. He has NEVER had a night like that. He has always been a great sleeper so he must have just had a hunch that "mom" was going to be gone a short time and wanted to make sure his dad wasn't going too. I let the two of them sleep the morning away while I headed off. He is too much like me, the poor kid.

Have you Ever...

2009-10-22T16:46:00.004-06:00

Had such a rough night sleep you might wake up like this, and realize..."No wonder I am tired, I slept on my knees."

Or that you wake up and mistake your dog for being a "real" one and try to feed him Oatmeal?

Or Maybe you just felt like picking up your cousins pink violin and playing a little tune.

Best of all, have you ever used a Beach Ball as an Exercise ball and felt good after a workout?

This is what makes me laugh everyday. Caleb has become my workout partner and let me tell you, I'm not so sure if it's the workout I get tired from or tripping over my buddy. Either way, we both feel great after we are done.

Love this Lady!

2009-10-19T19:45:00.002-06:00

When I taught special education I had the most incredible person to work with. I have known Pat for almost 5 years and I just love her. She was the best person to work with and taught me so much. We went through a lot together but I think that is what made us become such good friends. Caleb loves her! He even went with her to get a snack and then sat on her lap. I was pregnant while teaching with Pat so he must remember her voice or something cause he really took to her. Anyway, last week we were able to meet up and have lunch together. It was great!

Confusing?

2009-10-16T14:10:00.004-06:00

Ok, so now that I have gotten by skin and bones back in order from being at the doctors office for so long yesterday, I thought I'd share this picture with you.
I was looking at this magazine and came across this picture

Does anything confuse you about this? It's a toy made for kids 18 months and older but it's not recommended for kids under 3? Is that weird? Maybe I need to go find something to do that's more productive.

Waiting

2009-10-15T16:33:00.008-06:00

Do you ever feel like this when you go to the doctor? A visit that should only take 20 minutes that turns into 2 hours? I had the receptionist take this picture of me before I finally got to see the doctor. So, here's my question, do they put you in a room to see the doctor and make you wait there for two hours just so you feel like you are getting CLOSER to being seen? Just wondering.

Name Spelling

2009-10-12T13:43:00.004-06:00

Here are a few snapshots I took of Caleb the other day. It's kind of hard to see him grow up so fast. He is so fun to be around.

Caleb has been spelling his name for a few weeks now but I finally caught it on video. I hate my voice so just ignore it :) Caleb's "L's" sound like "i's" but he really is saying "L".

The Old Highway

2009-10-05T13:46:00.007-06:00

I have always been fascinated with history. I love to see how things were "back in the day." Old buildings, roads, bridges, railways...you name it. I love reading books that tell of what a town used to be. I love to see what made it thrive and what made it turn into a "Ghost Town." I could sit and look at old pictures for hours and never get bored.

This past weekend we went up to the cabin at Palisades. Zane and I ventured off and took a drive while Caleb stayed and played with his grandparents. I knew there was an old highway that used to be the main road that runs right through the middle of Palisades. When the water is high you can not see it but when the water drops, you can actually drive right on the road.

There are old foundations that used to be homes and now it's all covered in water. Palisades reservoir used to be a valley where people lived and thrived. Now it's all gone...the whole town rests under the water. It's fascinating to me. I want to see what it used to look like before they built the dam and had to move the road to where it is today. Zane and I took a drive on that road right up until we hit water and couldn't drive anymore. Here is what thousands of cars used to drive on to get from Alpine to Idaho Falls.

You can see where the road just keeps going in the water.

This just is amazing...the yellow lines are still visible on the road. It hasn't been the main highway for nearly 55 years! You can still see the lines...crazy!

We also took advantage of seeing the fall leaves. I love the red and orange leaves. They are my favorite!

It was pouring rain so this picture isn't very clear but the colors were so beautiful!!!

More colors

And just for fun...we pulled a mattress out from one of the beds and had Caleb sleep in our room with us. I was awake at 4:00 am and decided to go check on him. This is how I found him sleeping. Hilarious!

Really???

2009-09-24T14:39:00.002-06:00

This is such a random post but something I hear everyday...I can't tell you how many people I come in contact with during the day and ask me if Caleb is 5. 5???? for real??? Does he really look 5? Come on...he just turned 2! Yes I know he is tall but seriously...I really don't think he looks that old. Hmmmm....just something that was on my mind.

Guilt settled in

2009-09-22T14:14:00.007-06:00

I really don't have anything spectacular to blog about. Not unless I go on and on about how well Caleb did in nursery last week but I don't want to jinx myself. Ok...I'll do it anyway...he did awesome! I'll just leave it at that.
So...it is the season for canning once again. Did I talk myself into canning more peaches??? NO! I'm still recovering from last year not to mention the 40 jars I still have sitting in my storage room because they are just simply to beautiful to eat. So no I did not do peaches. Apples??? Ha I should seems I have a big apple tree in my back yard but um...no. About my garden??? Ha yeah...my sweet sister came and helped me plant it back in May while I was looking like this: (as I'm sure you all remember)

But she was not able to finish and as anyone can see...I didn't finish it either so I have nothing to harvest. So sad.
So...feeling a bit guilty for my loss of desire to can, I broke down and canned plum Jelly. I picked the plums from my in-laws tree and came home and got to work. I did quite a bit. I have plans for this jelly but will not reveal that at this time. I don't particular like jam and jelly but feel a sense of accomplishment to have done something.

Here is what my mom and I did a few weeks ago as well.

Tell me what your favorite thing to can or do in the fall time is. I'd love to hear.

Ribbit!

2009-09-15T15:18:00.003-06:00

I thought this was pretty cute. I took Caleb to the library for story time and he loved it. After they read a few books they let the kids make this cute craft. I thought he did a great job!

Love our Cowboy!

2009-09-14T21:07:00.002-06:00

Last week was the Fair. Yipee! We really do love the fair for some odd reason. I love going and seeing people I haven't seen in years and catching up on their lives. So last week on one particular day, Caleb took a super good nap. As a result, we decided to meet up with Zane's parents and go to the Rodeo. It was awesome! It was so fun seeing Caleb get so into it. He was laughing and clapping the whole time. It was all worth it just being able to see him have so much fun.

All ready to go!

Yee Haa!

Caleb would not take his eyes off the action (Not even to eat his corn dog). He was so into it.

I guess it tired him right out. He was sound asleep by the time we hit the freeway.

I seriously LOVE this age! Caleb is so stinken fun! We love taking him places just to see his eyes light up.

Great Friends and Good Food

2009-09-08T09:40:00.006-06:00

Caleb and I ventured off this past weekend to spend some time with some great friends. It was a lot of fun hanging out and catching up on each other. I love this family and wish we lived closer! B was one of my mission companions. We entered the MTC together and then we were each others back up trainers only after being out in the mission for three months! Great times!!! We still can just sit and laugh forever about experiences we used to cry about at the time. She is the greatest person ever and is such a huge example to me! Caleb had so much fun with her kids. They played cute together. We spent time riding through the hills on some four wheelers too. It was beautiful! We were then spoiled with an awesome dutch oven dinner. After that Caleb and I got back in the car for the two hour drive home. What a perfect day.

No More Crib

2009-08-22T19:04:00.006-06:00

We have been going back and forth for two months now debating if we want to put Caleb in a bed. We know that he is indeed tall enough and old enough but...he has never once tried to crawl out of his crib so we figured we'd just let him stay there. This past week we just decided to do it...he has to transition to a bed sooner or later so why not just do it...and that's what we did.
The first night was a breeze. He was ecstatic about his new bed. He stayed in it all night...no problema! Day two...rough during nap time but a breeze for bed. Then there was day three. After two hours of playing in his room this is where I found him

I felt so guilty. He never cried, never came out of his room, just played with...Nothing. I have nothing in there for him to play with because I want him to be able to sleep. He never complained for those two hours and I guess he just decided he better take at least a cat nap (which that is what it turned out to be).
I have the worst time with change. I am awful to be around when there is change. I can only hope that Caleb will continue his naps and things will go as smooth as they did when he was in a crib.

On another note...We have had a super busy week. After getting back from Lake Powell we had a lot of catching up to do. We had our big Zweifel family reunion which was a lot of fun.

The three of us

All the siblings on my dads side of the family and their kids, and their kids...and so on.

Also...this past Monday my patience finally paid off. I sold my car! Yes, my Jeep is gone. I'd be lying if I didn't say there weren't a few tears to shed because there were. I have so many memories of my car. So many trips to Utah, Boise, Home, Moab...the list goes on. It was a perfect car for me. I will miss it. We sold it to a nice couple that seem like they will really take care of it.

My dad and I went out to the farm this past week. Here are a few pictures I took. Harvest time is in full swing and it was fun to see how tall the grain is and to watch the combines.

Sitting on the tractor.

Caleb in the grain

Wow...that was a lot to report in one week. Lots of changes going on but fun things to look forward to.

Lake Powell

2009-08-13T21:00:00.003-06:00

Caleb seemed so excited to go somewhere fun where he could wear his life jacket and Du-rag. What better place than Lake Powell!!! Of course this trip has been planned for quite sometime but Caleb didn't know where we were going. We left at 3:00 am last Wednesday morning and got home this morning at 2:00 am. After 8 days of having fun in the sun...we were exhausted. We played and ate, played and ate, and played some more. Caleb has never been on a boat before so we knew this was going to be fun for him. Here are a few pictures of our trip.

Caleb couldn't get enough of the water. Every time we would put him on the jet ski he wouldn't get off. He loved it. The whole time we would go and splash in the water he would say "More! More!" What a bast he had

We loved being able to be together and play in the water. Our favorite thing to do was go to Dangling Rope and get ice cream. We did this everyday! It was so much fun.

I LOVE the scenery at Lake Powell. I could live there year round. I think it is beautiful. I love Rainbow bridge and was proud of myself for making the hike to get there. My ankle seemed to hold up real well and I can see so much progress with it.

A HUGE thanks to Zane's parents for taking us down there and showing us how to have fun. We had a lot of fun being together with everyone. We know it is NOT easy getting everything ready but Zane's parents always make it happen.

The fun was endless and to make it more fun I turned a year older while we were gone. I kept making the joke with everyone that I left on our trip in my twenty's and came home in my thirty's. Yikes!!! It is true...I had a birthday on this trip and turned 30! Honestly....30! I feel so....OLD! I have had a blast with teasing all my friends that have turned 30 before me this year. Now what am I going to do??? This is what I came home to last night.

Fun gifts from Zane, his family, friends, and my family

A survival kit from my friend Kellie

A cake from my parents

I have the greatest Husband, family and friends. I was spoiled with lots of great stuff and I just want to shout out a big THANK YOU to you all! You made by birthday memorable!

This one's for you Kellie! These glasses rock and I can't believe how much better I can see. Thank you!!! (I really can't believe I just posted this picture of myself. It is proof that I need more sleep. Off to bed)

I Love this kid!

2009-08-05T01:16:00.003-06:00

I think Caleb is trying to tell me he wants to go have some fun in the water. I'll have to see what we can do :)

Family Pics!

2009-07-30T16:11:00.004-06:00

Zane's family has been wanting to do family pictures for quite sometime. We were all able to finally get together and say "Cheese!" Here are some pictures I really loved. The photographers name is Carolyn Anderson. I have her link on my sidebar. She is awesome and does a great job! Check out her site and other pictures at www.carolynandersonphotos.blogspot.com

The whole Family

Caleb

Caleb laughing. This is his new way of laughing...it is hilarious!

The three of us.

Thank you DIY

2009-07-27T08:26:00.004-06:00

Zane and I often enjoy watching DIY (Do It Yourself). We have learned a lot about remodeling rooms, bathrooms, kitchens...the list goes on. Last week I had (what I thought to be) a great idea! Let's redo Caleb's room! The most exciting discovery was that Caleb had hardwood floors underneath his carpet. I am a hardwood floor lover! To make the job even more fun we pulled out all his carpet and tossed it! I seriously thought everything would be a cinch! About day 2, I realized I was wrong. I felt like we still had so much to do. We were able to send Caleb down to Blackfoot for two days so we could work a bit faster. Zane still had to put in long hours at his work so when he got home he didn't get a break. Anyway, here is how the room turned out.

The Before picture

Zane pulling off all the trim. We ended up putting up all new.

Me painting the room blue. Looks scary I know but it gets better.

It's all blue!

The final touch.

I didn't get pictures of us putting up the bead board and trim. Things got a little intense :) It was late and we didn't have all the right tools for the job so we just had to do with what we had. So after painting, installing bead board, trim, pulling out carpet, and doing a lot of final touch-ups, we were pretty happy being able to accomplish this in two days. I'm thinking it might be awhile before we do another project like this again though. At least not until we get the right tools :)
There will be more room once we get Caleb in a bed. Now that he is two we figured it's time to move on and say goodbye to the crib. We will do this when we get back from our next great adventure.

Tough Love

2009-07-24T13:28:00.005-06:00

Caleb is a very clean eater (For the most part). He usually doesn't make a mess or throw his food. As his mother, I am very grateful for that. However...there are those few moments where he just simply does not want to eat and he shows it by dumping his plate on the table and food goes everywhere. This has only happened a few times but I decided that tough love is sometimes the best lesson learned. Here is Caleb picking up every last piece of chicken, noodle, and crumb. I had just mopped the floors so I knew everything that was on it was a result from him dumping his lunch. It took him about 30 minutes to fully clean up his mess.

1,723 Miles Round Trip!

2009-07-18T20:05:00.004-06:00

Many hours have been spent on the road this past week but we did it! We managed to load up late Sunday night and hit the road bright and early Monday morning to go here...

Can you guess??? The Oregon Coast!!! Wahoo!!! My parents took the whole family there. All my siblings and their kids...21 total! It was absolutely Beautiful!!! I loved that place! I could live there year round and be quite content. So, for all of you who are hitting the road with little ones, may I suggest a few ideas.
We found out that Caleb loves pipe cleaners, glow sticks, slimy things that make noise, me and Zane singing (Ha...we only do it for Caleb), smarty suckers, his puppy wrapped up in his blanket, and a DVD PLAYER! Get this...we watched "Signing Time" 27 times on the ride home yesterday. Crazy I know but Caleb LOVES sign language and communicates 90% of the time using sign. I took sign language classes in College and have been determined to teach it to him. We Love it! Anyway, enough about that...I just have to say what a stud Caleb was in the car! He rocked!!! We hardly knew he was with us because he was so quiet. We drove 14 hours to get home yesterday and he never complained about one thing! He only slept for 30 minutes as well...he does not sleep in his car seat which is fine if he's still happy :) One thing to mention though...a car seat tray is a MUST! What a handy little thing to put food, drinks, toys...you name it.

Yes I realize it's not the healthiest lunch but chicken nuggets and fries are easy and don't make a mess in the car.

Ok...So moving onto the pictures. Enjoy!

Mount Hood. Look at how much snow is still on it! Glad we weren't driving there :)

Beautiful waterfalls just outside of the Dalles. We stopped and hiked up to the bridge. It was awesome!

We visited the Bonneville Fish Hatchery as well. There were a lot of cool fish to see and feed.

Next was the Cheese Factory! This place was cool! I love watching "How it's Made" on the science channel so this place was just for me! I am fascinated by how things are done.

We couldn't leave without Caleb's face in the cow. So fun!

Cheese Factory. I have never seen so much cheese in my life! We saw from start to finish how cheese was cut in all sizes, wrapped, and packed. Way Cool! Maybe the block of cheese here will be on one of your kitchen tables in a week or so. Hmmmm...it could happen (If you buy Tillamook Cheese that is)

This was the house we all stayed in. It was a ton of fun being there with everyone. We all took turns making meals and cleaning up.

This was so funny! This picture was taken just seconds before Caleb fell back into the water. This was the first time he stepped foot in the water and when it came rushing up to him he tried to back away and fell on his bottom. We busted up laughing...not Caleb of course, he felt quite differently about the situation.

Caleb just chill’ in on the beach. He really liked playing in the sand.

We had fun writing our names in the sand.

The three of us at the Newport Aquarium. This place Rocked! Loved all the sea life and exhibits.

Me and Caleb

Zane and Caleb. Caleb was getting SO tired of the camera so check out the face he is pulling. What a nut!

Halibut. Looks delicious don't you think? Here Fishy, Fishy, Fishy.

Jelly Fish! I love the look of these!

Now this is a crab that would feed an army! It's the largest one ever!

A stingray inside a walk through aquarium. I wonder what it would look like with lipstick...check out those lips.

Caleb would bust up laughing every time this sea lion would swim by him. It was so funny.

The ocean got to be real foggy at times.

Then it would clear up and be like this. Awe, so lovely :)

The last night we were there. The sunset was beautiful. I was a bit late catching a picture but you get the idea.

The Whole Family!

Thanks so much Dad and Mom for a great vacation!!! We can't wait to go back!!!

2 Year Pictures

2009-07-10T12:54:00.004-06:00

I took Caleb into JCPenny's today for his two year pictures. He did really well for the most part. Towards the end things were getting a bit rough for him. Zane's parents bought Caleb some cowboy boots, shirt, and a hat. I thought he'd love wearing them for his pictures...which he did. He's a little cowboy at heart and loves riding the horses whenever he can. Here are a few of the pictues they took.

He loves looking like a little cowboy.

Still smiling...

I LOVE THIS! This is so Caleb. The look and facial expression says it all. I love this kid!!!

Round 2! He was getting a bit impatient by this time but he was still hanging in there.

Caleb and his puppy are seriously best friends. He feeds it, gives it drinks, takes it for rides. I just had to get a picture with them together.

Enough!!! I'm outta here!

Happy Birthday Caleb!

2009-07-07T22:16:00.005-06:00

I just have to share this picture. Caleb was about two weeks old here. He was so fun to dress and take care of. I loved the infant stage...so fun!

I know I have said this before but I really can't believe our little guy is two years old. He was born at 10:05 pm and I have thought all day about how sweet it was seeing him for the first time. I really hate to see how fast time is flying by. It doesn't seem real for him to be two already. We have had such a fun day doing what Caleb loves to do. We love this little guy so much and can't stop giving him kisses all the time. I hate to think of the day when he tells me to stop because he's embarrassed. I hope that day is still a long ways away. Here are some of the fun highlights of his day.

Of course, what is a day without a kick start with Cheerios? Caleb loved cheerios for breakfast so that is what he got. He is not hard to please for breakfast.

Opening gifts. He was excited! He's been picking at his presents for two days. He was happy to finally get to open them.

One of his toys was a remote control fire engine. He had so much fun with this and hardly put it down.

We went to the river and fed the ducks. Caleb loves this. He didn't however love when the duck bit his finger. It really was kind of funny though to see his reaction.

I know these look hideous but the magazine made them look so easy to make...they weren't though. If you are wondering, these are monkey cupcakes. They took time to make but we gobbled them up in no time.

Singing happy birthday to Caleb. We had lots of family here. It was fun and we appreciate all our family did to make this such a great day.

Caleb's cousins. They are all so cute together.

We ended the day with feeding Twiz. Our neighbors are so kind to share their cat with Caleb. He loves it. We go out and feed it treats almost every night.

We love you Caleb!!!

So Happy I Could Cry

2009-07-06T15:00:00.001-06:00

It is true...this day did in fact come, I did in fact go to the doctor, and he did in fact give my walking boot the BOOT! Yes it is gone...Long gone that is. I felt like dancing my way out of the doctors office. I just couldn't believe I had a normal shoe on. It has been a long 13 weeks and if any of you are wondering...Yes it was worth it! Now that I can't bend my ankle, walking comes as a bit of a challenge. There are some awesome shoes called MBT (rocker) shoes that I now get to wear. They have a curved sole. The shoes are designed so you don't have to bend your ankle to walk. They are great for many reasons. I am proud to introduce to you my new shoes. I am so excited they make shoes like this!

I thought I'd share my fusion progress. This x-ray was taken 7 weeks ago. Notice how dark the gap is here.

This is the one from today. That gap that was dark in the picture above has now gotten whiter. This is a good sign. That means that the bones have come together and fused so the whiter it is, the stronger!

The bone takes a year to fully fuse so I have to remind myself to still be careful. I just can't express how wonderful it is to walk again with a shoe. What a nice feeling!

Fabulous Times

2009-07-04T21:42:00.002-06:00

We are a bit crazy about this little guy. It's hard to believe he will be turning two this upcoming week. I try not to think about how fast the time is going by. We had a little early celebration this past weekend at my parents house. It was a lot of fun. Lots of family was there and he got real embarrassed as we all sang Happy Birthday. I love his smile here.

My sister gave Caleb this awesome bubble blower. It was a hit! He loves, loves, loves it! Thanks Jill!

We went up to Palisades to enjoy the day four wheeling. It was great! This was us at the beginning.

After two hours of fighting sleep, Caleb finally surrendered. He was so tired!

I don't think Caleb has ever gotten so dirty! He was a mess. We ran into a big thunderstorm with rain, wind, hail, lightening...you name it. When thunder comes less than a second from a strike of lightning, it's bound to make you nervous. I was, but we kept riding hoping to get out of the storm. We were muddy at the end but it was super fun!!! Caleb is now in bed and Zane and I are heading out to the backyard to enjoy the City's fireworks.

I Won!

2009-06-27T21:02:00.001-06:00

This post is coming a few days late but the fact that I won is still fresh on my mind. I was officially a dork and called in to our local radio station to play the "Battle of the Sexes" I was the first caller so I earned a spot to play. After three tough questions against the opposite sex I managed to pull my way through and Win! Wahoo! I won two gift cards to Wendy's and two tickets to a Baseball game. I was super excited! I was anxious to go to the game and couldn't wait to see some serious ball action. Well, disappointment came fast due to this:

The Game was cancelled. Good news though, I got a refund on the tickets and can go another night.

So, instead of sitting high in the bleachers watching a bat hit a ball, we did this instead. (Notice how nice of a night it is now, same night)

I finally got my basketball hoop back. It has been out at the farm for the past 12 years. My dad brought it in to us and we've had a blast shooting hoops.

We have been doing a lot of other fun things too. Caleb and I went with my dad out to the farm last week. Look how tall the grain is. Caleb is standing up in this picture. He would NOT put his hands down to touch the grain. It's really prickly so he did not like that.

My parents took Caleb and I up to Palisades to see how high the water is. It was a great day and we had lots of fun being by the lake.

And of course, what is a post without an ankle update...Did I mention I only have 10 more days in this bulky, big, uncomfortable black boot?!!! Hooray! Oh and...I finally ditched my last crutch two days ago. Yay for walking without an aluminum stick under my armpit!

Leaning on Each Other

2009-06-22T20:29:00.007-06:00

It's been a week since my mom had her surgery. She is doing great and so are we. I am surprised at how smooth things have gone here without her. The laundry is still getting done, the bathrooms are still clean, and the floors are still vacuumed. However, the groceries still need bought so we did something crazy this past week. We went grocery shopping together. It was hilarious! I had my one crutch and she had her arm still wrapped up and off we went. We got stopped by so many people down the aisles asking if we got in a fight, car accident...you name it. We just laughed the whole time shopping. It was a great experience.

So Caleb has decided he wants to help with the laundry so once the clothes are finished drying I put them in a basket and place them on his cart. He then pushes the cart into the living room so I can fold them. It works out great! He has been such a fun little helper.

Caleb and my Dad cruising around on the prowler

My Mom's Turn

2009-06-15T15:05:00.006-06:00

UPDATE: I left early this morning to go to the hospital. My dad was there in the waiting room so Caleb, my dad and I waited for over two hours. Way longer than we anticipated. My mom did great but is in a lot of pain. We had a good talk with the doctor (Who so happens to be the one that fused my ankle) After that we were able to go back and see my mom. The minute she woke up she said "Do I get to go home?" She hates being idle. Long story short, I took her home and between me on crutches keeping track of Caleb and her in a sling with a wrap all around her we made it. I'm sure it was a site to see. She is now home resting (suppose to be anyway).

Now back to the original post:

It has been a long road to recovery since my ankle fusion. I gripe and groan at times and complain about how long it's taking to walk again. With all the moods I've been in my mother has never once complained about the pain she has been in. She has been here day in and day out taking care of us. She has done a hundred + loads of laundry, emptied the garbage cans, vacuumed the floors, scrubbed the sinks, made the beds, cleaned the bathrooms...the list goes on and one. She will be heading into surgery tomorrow morning to fix the rotater cuff in her shoulder. It is so torn and damaged the doctor doesn't even know how to go about fixing it without getting into her shoulder to explore. I can't tell my mom how sorry I am for the pain she has suffered. She is a saint and I hope she knows how much I love and appreciate her. Through all this she has taken Caleb to

The Park to go down the slides

Played on the teeter-totter

Played on the swings

And jumped on the trampoline

Through it all she has always had a smile on her face. Now it is my turn to take care of her during the next three months. I will never be able to repay her for all she's done for us but I'll try. We will certainly be a pair. With her arm in a sling and me still on crutches we'll be a site to see. Love you Mom!

Yee-Haa

2009-06-09T17:36:00.003-06:00

It's no wonder why Caleb never wants to come home after going to visit his Grandma and Grandpa Mickelsen. It is clear that I am not nearly as fun. Check out what he got to do today.

Goodbye Ol' Buddy!

2009-06-05T13:51:00.003-06:00

Ugh, I didn't want this day to come. You might all think I had to say goodbye to something really important to me, Maybe something that has been a life saver, something I would not had been able to live without...maybe my Roller Aide! Boo Hoo! Yes, it is true...the insurance company will only cover so many days of this nifty set of wheels. I can't complain...I mean, I did get it for 60 full days. I guess it's back to using the crutches. Don't worry, I will not be this devastated when I get my walking boot off. Only 5 more weeks! 5??? Did I really just say that? Uh, that still seems so long.

I really miss it :(

How we eat Ice Cream

2009-06-01T18:41:00.005-06:00

I have never given Caleb an Ice Cream cone until today. I was curious if he'd even know what to do with it. Here are a few pictures before he finally started to figure out how to eat it.

He picked at the ice cream forever until I finally showed him how to lick it.

He never mastered the licking but he ate the bottom of the cone...Now that is how we eat it!

Caleb loves getting his picture taken on the stairs.

Yesterday Caleb and I were able to go hang out at my parents house while Zane went Home Teaching. They made a fire back in their fire pit and we roasted marshmallows. It was a lot of fun and Caleb loved being there.

Caleb would not smile so I told him so show me his teeth. Here is what I got out of him. What a character!

Roasting a Marshmallow with my dad.

When there's a Will there's a Way

2009-05-28T20:19:00.005-06:00

Remember that saying? Well, I may be unwise but I was eager to hit the Zoo today. I really wanted to take Caleb but how was that going to happen with me on crutches and him in a stroller? It was as if something struck me...get a harness for Caleb and I'll take my Roller Aide! Well, that I did and things worked out quite smoothly. I met up with one of my good friends and she was a big help! Caleb did awesome just walking around on his own. He was so tired by the time we got home. He walked for a total of 60 minutes without sitting. What a kid! We really had fun and I'm so excited that Caleb has such an interest in animals this year. Maybe we'll hit the greenbelt next!

Caleb and me

Looking at the ducks

Touching the goat...sick! No worries, my friend had hand wipes.

Caleb and his friend Emily

Am I nuts? This is how I broke my ankle 8 years ago was on a trampoline. You'd never think all these years later I'd still be dealing with the injury. Now I'm letting Caleb jump on it. Crazy mom huh!

Iron Bog

2009-05-26T09:15:00.004-06:00

Zane, Caleb, and I all went Camping this past weekend to Iron Bog. It was so much fun! It was really hot too. Here are a few pictures of our weekend.

All three of us :)

Logan wanted to have a boat race so we carved boats out of wood and raced them down the creek. It was a lot of fun

Caleb would do this for hours! He loved throwing rocks into the creek.

Caleb's cousin caught a fish and let him hold onto it.

Zane and Caleb going for a ride

Me and Caleb hanging out by the camp fire

Yee Haa! Caleb loves riding horses!

Caleb and his cousin Dylan. They are 6 weeks apart. They are so cute playing together.

No Worries...it doesn't hurt...that bad

2009-05-20T13:50:00.002-06:00

Yeah!!! The cast is off!!! I couldn't be happier! I have a nice comfy boot that I can now take on and off as I please...of course only when I'm sitting...but still, that is a great feeling! I can gradually start putting weight on my foot but it will still be about 4-6 weeks on crutches. My foot has just barely started to fuse. It still has a long ways to go but I'm glad we have made it to 6 weeks.

Here is my new ankle. Fresh hardware and all.
As you can see...there is still a gap in my ankle. That dark spot should fill up with bone and be completely white in 6 weeks. If that happens then the surgery was a success...time will tell!

Here are a few more x-rays

Cutting off the cast...Wahoo!

And to end with...My new stylish boot...comes with an air pump and all.

30 minutes and counting down!!!

2009-05-20T08:29:00.003-06:00

It's true...I thought this day would never come! Wish me luck as I go see if I can get my cast off. If the ankle is fusing and all is looking good I'll be saying Audios to the cast!!! Then of course I have to welcome a walking boot but at least I can take that on and off. HERE I GO!!!!

The Power of the Roller Aide!

2009-05-18T12:40:00.000-06:00

A big thanks to all of you who gave words of encouragement! Caleb's head is back to normal. That glue really sticks! He is doing much better...as you can see.

After almost 6 weeks of no weight bearing on my ankle I think I have finally figured out how to get around really fast. Even though I get a ton of stares...I have decided that I don't care. My Roller aide has been a lifesaver! I take it around to the stores, the park, the neighborhood...it's by buddy. I am sure it has become a topic of conversation for everyone that has seen it. I have to tell you though...It beats crutches!!! I have become quite independent and can go out and do my errands and still have my hands free. It has become a toy for Caleb as well. Whenever he gets a chance to ride it...he takes it! I have to tell you all how great Zane has been through all this. He has endured all my Mood Swings and my frustrations. I hate this cast and Zane has to hear about it all the time. Lets just say...by Wednesday at 10:00 am...I'll be a new women!!! If all is well and the ankle is starting to fuse, I'll be out of a cast and into a boot. I can't wait to shave and lotion my leg!!! Oh the excitement!

Caleb going for a Roller Aide ride!

Caleb finds it funny to tickle my toes. He does this all the time!

Tough Cookie

2009-05-11T21:07:00.004-06:00

What a day...Caleb has had his fair share of bumps and bruises this week but today seemed to top it off. My sister so graciously drove up from Pocatello to help plant our garden. She did a wonderful job. While she was here, I had an appointment to go to. I left Caleb home so he could play with her kids. While I was away I get this phone call with my sister in a panic...I knew something was wrong. Caleb had fallen off the swing and rammed his head into a bolt that was on the side of the swing set. Now...my sister has 5 kids and knows what blood looks like but this, she said...was the worst. I just happened to be at Zane's work when I got the call so he jumped in the car with me and we raced home to get Caleb. We threw him in the car and off we went to the Urgent Care. They bandaged him all up and tried to numb his wounds so they could examine them. He hated every minute of it but even at that...he was a tough cookie. They were able to mend his cut with scalp glue...who knew there was such a thing. Thank Heavens for that...I really didn't want the staples. Anyway, he is now sleeping comfortably with his blanket and puppy. So grateful it wasn't worse. I hate seeing him in pain but with a sucker, juice, and lots of love...he seemed to bounce right back.

They bandaged Caleb up when we got there. He hated this too...he kept trying to pull it off. I don't blame him.

His two cuts. Only one needed mended.

Cowboy Caleb

2009-05-05T20:58:00.006-06:00

I normally don't post twice in one day but I couldn't resist posting these pictures. Caleb has been going down to stay with Zane's parents a few days a week until I get my cast off. They have been a huge help. They sent me these pictures today that I thought were so cute. The first one is of him all decked out in his cowboy gear. They took him shopping and bought him boots, hat, and a shirt. So cute! He is with his cousin in this picture.

The other two pictures are of him playing with their chickens. He is having so much fun there.

Sand Box

2009-05-05T09:21:00.009-06:00

When we bought our home we were lucky to get a sand box that came with it. We were also blessed with great sand that my friend (Kellie) gave us. She ventured all the way to Hamer to get it (The best sand on earth!) Yesterday I took Caleb outside to play in his sandbox...he LOVED it! It was so fun to watch him shovel the sand in his bucket and to see how excited he was. We are looking forward to more fun sand days.

More pictures of the sand

After all the fun we brought Caleb in to eat his lunch. Looks like he used all his energy to play in the sand...he fell asleep while eating.

Oh Happy Day!!!

2009-04-27T15:59:00.005-06:00

First of all, after not sleeping for almost a week I had finally had it and had the doctor put a new cast on me. I could not take the squeezing pain anymore. At first they tried to just split the cast to alleviate some pressure but that didn't work. They then just took it off and put one on that was a lot more loose. Oh happy day!

Old

New. By the way...like the new color? This means I have to paint my toes to match again.

The other thing...I GET MY CAR BACK!!! After 2 months of my car being in the shop (Which we pulled it out of and had someone else fix the problem) I get it back! It is due to arrive in the morning!!! I can't believe it! I have missed not having a car. Oh happy Day!

I also got to meet up with my grandma and my cousin from Arizona to have lunch today. My mom, Zane, and Caleb were able to be there too. (bad picture of Caleb) It was great fun visiting with everyone. Oh happy day!

And of course...what is a post without a picture of Caleb. He is becoming obsessed with doing his hair (Should I worry?) Anyway, I find him in the bathroom all the time doing his hair in the mirror.