Avi's 1st Pigtails!

Christmas Presents from the Kids

I figure the kids have already given me their Christmas presents this year...

Taylor is now over 40 lbs and can graduate from a carseat to a booster! Hooray!!

Averi is in pull-ups and even though she's hit-and-miss with the toilet thing, I'm still happy! Yippee!!

Big City Despair

I have been campaigning to my husband for the last few months to move to a smaller town. This morning illustrates one of the reasons why...

It usually takes me 45 minutes to get to work. This is an improvement from my former commute by transit which took at least an hour and a half and only if I caught my connecting bus(es). That 45 minutes, however, is dependent on no accidents, construction or bad road conditions. During the summer, I was often delayed by construction. In the winter, things are much, much worse.

This morning, it took an hour and a half to get to work despite the fact there were no accidents. The road conditions were no worse than yesterday. I left home at the same time as yesterday. Yesterday, it only took an hour to get to work. There is no accounting for these congested traffic anomalies except to say that we live in a city of a million people. Small by American standards, to be sure, but bad enough.

Reason the hub doesn't want to move: he likes our house and he hates change. Hmmmm....

Avi's Words

Avi doesn't say much other than "Uh?" but I know she can at least say "eye" in actual association with her (or others'!) eye(s).

Her newest word we taught her yesterday since we had the fireplace on all day (it's FREEZING here!). She now says "hot," though it sounds more like "ha," the word 'hot' without the 't.' It's so cute!

Potty-Interest Continues

Avi went tinkle on the potty 3 times yesterday! I'm ecstatic! I don't even ask her, she just points or walks towards the bathroom.

She doesn't go every time I sit her on the potty. But I'm still pleased with her interest and initiative!

Oh My Freakin' Heck!!

My 15-month-old daughter just went pee and pooh ON THE POTTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I didn't even encourage it, as she's obviously rather young. But I could tell she was working to get something out and she kept signing "more" and pointing towards the bathroom!! So I followed her there and sat her on the potty and she did the rest! Whenever I asked if she was done, she would emphatically shake her head "no" and, sure enough, would produce some more! I'm still in complete awe and amazement!

Addition to the Bedtime Routine

Taylor has started telling me that he loves me when he wishes me goodnight... I don't think that will ever get old. *sigh*

BFF

A couple of nights ago, Taylor announced that I was his best friend!!! Where does he pick this stuff up?

What he actually said was, "Mom, you're best my friend." I got the idea.

Avi's Bedtimes

Whenever Averi is interested in going to bed, she goes to her room, finds a soother lying around, puts it in her mouth, pulls a blanket out of her crib from between the bars and drags it around searching for a parent, pointing towards her bedroom. I'm blessed.

Dude Tells All

We were over at a neighbor's home, when Taylor disappeared. I found him sitting on the stairs.

Me: What are you doing, Taylor?

Taylor: Sitting on the naughty step.

Me (confused since no one had sent him there): But why?

Taylor: Because I was naughty.

Despite the fact I doubt he actually did anything, this seems like progress of sorts...

Graduates

Taylor no longer prefers his booster seat and has graciously allowed Averi its use. She much prefers it to the high chair. She's getting so big!

Twilight Movie Review

Just in case anyone's interested in my opinions ;) , I posted my Twilight movie review here.

Dad's Visit

My dad flew up to Calgary for an impromptu visit. Main activities included swimming and going to the zoo. He was great with the grandkiddies and provided an excellent break for the parents!

The only pic was the one we got at the airport on his way out... He actually missed that flight because he hung out with us too long!

Official Announcement

Though the majority of family is already aware, I finally get to officially announce that I'm pregnant with our third! Due date (which I don't believe in at all) is June 7th by ultrasound.

This was somewhat unplanned, well, a bit of a surprise really, but I'm still excited of course. Averi and this little one will be just shy of 22 months apart. Not too bad...

My mom reassures me that the first two children will keep each other occupied so the third will be a breeze. Considering Taylor and Averi's track record, I'm somewhat unconvinced. One can hope!

This is supposedly our last child but it's really unfathomable to believe that I won't ever get pregnant again after this. I feel like I may have one more left in me. Guess we'll see.

We've decided not to research baby names until we find out the gender (2 months from now). It took alot of time to get the one boy name and one girl name we've already used. I do have ideas, of course...

Sweet Princess Bedhead!

Excitement in Lethbridge... Who Knew?

Joy of joys, I get a night off from the kids. Mom's watching them so I could come to Lethbridge to see my SIL's concert. Hooray, Lindsay!

While the concert was enjoyable, that's not the excitement I was referring to.

Afterwards, Liz and Kyle and I headed to Moxie's for some form of food. After ordering water, we decided we'd rather go to Denny's so we made a break for it. Lizzy timed everything so we wouldn't run into people at the door. We did anyway. As soon as we were outside, Lindsay yelled, "Run!" We felt like fugitives ducking our bill or something. I realized after opening the car door and attempting to hop in that it was the wrong car! It was parked right next to us and the owners were approaching, blinking the lights as they unlocked their doors at the same time. It was just the timing. Liz won't let me live it down. Especially since they ended up knowing the owners!

Denny's was even more eventful. A mentally disabled fellow started yelling at another patron who ended up getting violent! Security and then the cops came. Whaddya know? Dinner and a show!

Anyway, my night away from home has been all I could possibly hope for and more!!

Helping Already

Averi is now 14-months-old. As I've mentioned before, she has incredible behavioral issues when it comes to meal times. She dislikes her high chair and now prefers to sit in Taylor's booster seat.

This morning, for some reason, Daddy gave her a bowl of cereal with milk. Of course, it ended up on the floor.

Daddy went to grab some cleaning materials but when he returned to the scene of the crime, Averi had already dismounted, found the dustbin and was trying to scoop up the mess with the wrong side.

Who can stay mad with that?

Handsome

My "baby" boy and I were hanging out the other night when he turned to me and said something. All I caught was "handsome," so I said, "Yes, you're my handsome." Gag, I know, but I call him "my handsome" on occasion. Anyway, Taylor immediately corrected me saying, "No, YOU'RE handsome!"

Awwwwww!

As a 3-year-old, I don't believe he quite understands what "handsome" means but I thanked him, nonetheless.

I also taught him to call me "beautiful." ;)

Checking In

I know, I know, I've been totally slacking. Between reading for Reading Romance Books (I actually have deadlines!) and RL (real life), I haven't had a chance to update my blog or even keep up with the blogs I read.

Exciting things have happened though. At least, exciting for me.

I turned 30 years old last week. I spent a leisurely day at home with the fam and my mom came over to cook supper and a cake for me. I have footage that I will add later. She got me my very first cell phone for my birthday! (How sad is that? Thirty years old and first cell phone...) Anyway, I was more horrified when my mom announced only 10 more years until I was 40 than I was about turning 30. What a thing to bring up. I keep taking comfort in the fact that a 24-year-old young man that I know thought I was younger than him. ;)

I also had my annual weekend getaway last weekend. My mother-in-law, 2 sis-in-laws and a friend spent time in Canmore just sleeping, eating, window shopping, sleeping and eating. It's always heavenly. On Sunday (I know this is evil), we attend the brunch at the Banff Springs Hotel. It's about $40 a head but oh-so-worth-it. Even for vegetarians. I think. Anyway, it's a great experience. I've learned to pace myself instead of stuffing my face. Only took 6 years.

Hallowe'en is right around the corner and I don't have costumes for the kids! I'm a horrible, horrible mother. Guess I'll figure something out. I don't even have anything planned for myself. You know you're getting old when you don't participate in Hallowe'en anymore... :'(

Burnt Rubber

Today, I had to slam on the breaks to avoid a collision on Glenmore. I was on the commute to work when traffic just stopped outta nowhere. I hate the smell of burning rubber but wasn't about to be picky since it had saved a mighty mess.

I must be starting a trend.

I was allowed to test-drive my friend's brand new Dodge Calibre the other day because it was a standard and I haven't driven one in just ages. Aside from the bike. It's a little different.

Anyway, I was at a stop sign at the top of a steep incline bragging about my perfect uphill start on the motorcycle exam. I then proceeded to accelerate too high before releasing the clutch causing the tires to squeal on the pavement as I shot around the corner. *ahem*

Well, it is different from a bike.

I apologized but they were good enough to see the humor in it...

Retraction

Remember this mascara recommendation? I need to retract it.

Apparently, it's not just my mascara-application skills that gets this stuff all through my hair so that I practically have to rip it out to get it out. It's incredibly wet and goopy and gets EVERYWHERE.

So, me no recommend the MAC Zoom mascara. Sorry.

My search for a decent mascara continues.

P.S. Is it just me or is this an incredibly shallow topic? Well, who cares... It's my blog.

Makeup

I've become quite adept at applying my makeup during the commute to work.

I can actually tell how bad or good traffic is by how much I get on by the time I get to work.

This system is not without it's drawbacks.

I've learned that one should not apply mascara in a hurry. Even at the best of times, mascara is tricky for me.

Today, I was able to get one eye completed by the time I parked. Having only mascara left to put on the other eye, I was assured of no mishaps since I was no longer traveling.

Sadly, 'twas not to be.

Not only did I seem unable to keep mascara from collecting around my entire eye area, I got a huge blotch in my hair, nearly permanently dyeing it.

I also left a blob on my visor and several smears on the seat.

One of these days, Shawn is going to notice this collection.


I have retracted this recommendation....
P.S. After trying several rather expensive mascaras from Sephora, I've found the best (and cheaper!) one is from MAC, which is found in The Bay.

Kids Say the Darnedest Things!

I read this story on B's blog and just had to share it!!

Temple in Calgary!

I was so excited to hear the news on General Conference this morning! President Monson said a temple is being built in Calgary!

After chatting with a few people, the conjecture is that it will be built in the far NW by 2011.

Wehoo!

Biker Babe

So... I took my motorcycle driver's test today (in Calgary).

I so totally rock!

The only mistake I made was when I stopped at a red light and hesitated too long before turning right (5 points). If the light had turned green, I woulda FAILED because I'd have been considered as "obstructing" traffic.

As it was, I remembered that I was allowed to turn right on red and did so just before the examiner had to tell me!

So, yippee and hooray, I can now drive a motorcycle without a babysitter!

I wanted to have a picture for this post but never got around to it. Never fear *modest cough*, I'm sure to have some in the future!

Clearing the Grapevine

Just wanted to lay to rest the rumors going around the Nelson family grapevine...

Shawn and I are NOT currently trying to have another baby.

Sheesh.

Daddy's Day Job

September 2nd - This was completely unposed!!

Refresher

I haven't been practicing up for my motorcycle license test this summer. Why? Well, er, uh, I dropped the motorbike at the beginning of the season and it's been out of commission all summer.

We finally got it fixed in time for the end of the season. Shawn and I went on a practice run yesterday. Thanks to mom for watching the kids for us!

I actually did better than I have previously! Didn't drop the darn thing anyway. I did stall a couple times and nearly panicked after making a sharp turn into the gas station cuz they had a speed bump right at the entrance. But I made decent recoveries and became quite confident with my driving.

I prefer the idea of taking my test in Vulcan because it's smaller and, hopefully, less intense. I'm excited to finally get this done!

Kids in Church

Today, Taylor seriously impressed me with his Sacrament meeting skills. He sat pretty quietly, distracted with books and toys.

Averi, however, has taken his place in the you-can't-contain-me department.

He's On The Phone...

I was talking to my mother on speakerphone this evening when Taylor insisted he be able to speak with her. He took the proffered phone and proceeded to tell Omi about his new "star light."

This wasn't enough, however.

Taylor took the phone to his room so that he might show it to her!

Daddy Takes the Kids to the Zoo

September 18 at the Calgary Zoo


Avi looks like a little street-walker at the beginning of this!! ;)

Jesus Wants Me For a Sunbeam

I've been meaning to catch this for some time...

Taylor's night-time routine consists of saying a prayer and singing some songs. I've been paraphrasing The Book of Mormon a bit to him as well, but I think I'd do better by getting some child-friendly books at the church bookstore.

Anyhoo, I started singing Jesus Wants Me For a Sunbeam some time ago, in the hopes of familiarizing him with it before he enters Primary in January. No, I can't believe he'll be in Primary...

One night, he just started to sing along with me. You can't imagine my excitement! He's somewhat tone-deaf, but hey, he's barely 3!

Taylor Says...

Taylor: I want a drink of water.

Me: Taylor, you need to ask nicely.

Taylor: Nicely.

Eierkuchen

Eierkuchen is a German breakfast dish that resembles its French counterpart, crêpes. Literally translated, it means "egg cake" which is very apt considering the primary ingredient is eggs (then comes flour and milk ;) ).

The consistency of the batter is thicker than crêpes, though thinner than pancakes. The reason for this is because bits of fruit are typically added, which requires more viscosity.

My mom has long since given up adding bits of apple to our traditional family breakfast of Eierkuchen. As kids, we much preferred them plain.

Traditional toppings include honey or jam or applesauce, but being of the syrup-belongs-on-everything variety, I usually use this instead. I think Mom believes I'm corrupting centuries of tradition. ;)

After the topping of choice has been slathered on, the Eierkuchen is then rolled up elegantly with knife and fork and appropriate-sized pieces shoveled voraciously into one's mouth.

This is one of those family traditions that I'm eager to continue with my own family. Like all grand recipes passed down through generations, however, this one does not have a set recipe. It's all done by feel and some batters turn out better than others.

I'm not this type of person at all.

I need everything spelled out for me, then I can potentially experiment.

Regardless, here's some Eierkuchen for you to enjoy.... :P

(Yes, that's my kitchen floor... Best lighting at the time.)

Toddlers and Food

I've been meaning for some time now to compose a magnificent post on weaning babies for Mommy 4-1-1. Unfortunately, I have nothing worthwhile to recommend. Except, perhaps, horror stories.

Avi has always been much more difficult than Taylor in regards to behaviour during mealtimes. Her worst, and most long-lasting, habit is to spit the contents of her mouth all over herself, her chair, the floor and the hapless parent attempting to feed her.

Her most spiteful habit, however, is more recent. She will take an item of food we have left in front of her on her high chair tray, hold it over the side, look meaningfully at said hapless parent, and proceed to purposefully release the food item directly onto the floor.

While I can appreciate the dramatics of such a maneuver, it is a really proficient way of adding insult to injury.

Mealtimes are not our favorite.

Giggles

My mom and I were up late building an IKEA bookshelf. It is entirely normal to find things that are slightly amusing to be extraordinarily funny when one is tired.

When I announced that I had "better get screwing," I collapsed into a fit of gigles. My mom asked what was so funny and I replied that it was nothing. If she didn't get it, I wasn't going to explain it to her.

Several pieces of the hardware had slots in them, labled A and B. So when Mom mentioned something about the "A hole," we hooted simultaneously and couldn't stop grinning.

Ha ha.

No Fair

Why is it that my son will call me desperately to his bedside in the middle of the night only to ask me to get Daddy?

Innocence Personified

HP with the Chil'ns

(Taylor got his hair wet at the fountain on the way out of the park.)

Momma Avi

For Avi's birth last year, Aunt Lola (Kay) gave her her very first doll. I waited until this year's birthday to give it to her.

This pic is unbelievably adorable!

Daddy's Girl

This morning, I retrieved Avi from her crib only to have her reach for Daddy when he came into view. She promptly snuggled into his shoulder.

Everytime I would reach for her, she would retract into this snuggle position.

Daddy, resigned, allowed her to accompany him to the bathroom.

I Hate Gas

Picture this:

My car is completely out of gas, but not running on fumes or anything. I drive all the way home to use our local gas station.

There is a line-up.

Someone snags my gas pump right before I can pull in.

I finally get a pump. I go through all the hassle of swiping cards and pushing buttons. When the time comes for the nozzle to spew forth its fossily-fuel goodness, nothing.

So I wait for another pump.

Lost my debit card somewhere during this time. I have to order another one.

Use my credit card on the next pump.

Same problem.

I try pump number three.

Same problem.

What the heck?! Everyone else seems to be getting the pumps to work...

So I go all the way to another gas station.

Did I mention my kids are in the car?

New gas station. Same problem.

I go in to see the cashier, leaving my kids by themselves. (Legal??)

We work things out and I go home with a full tank of gas.

The End

Blogs

I actually got in trouble from my friend for not updating my blog! It's nice to know she's checking it. ;)

I took a break from blogging and reading blogs. Some people have missed me. Wow. :D

I'll try and catch up this weekend...

Sleep-walking

Several nights ago, I heard Taylor cry out from his bedroom. It sounded different from his usual whines. Checking on him revealed a little boy trying to walk through a wall to get to the bathroom! It was so hysterical! He just kept bumping into it!

I had a hard time keeping myself from laughing at the poor kid so Shawn took care of his urgency.

Contest of Wills

This evening, I delighted in witnessing a screaming contest between my two children. Averi is quite famous for her withering shrieks. And tonight, Taylor was not to be outdone.

Avi was under the impression that it was all a game. She would shriek at the top of her lungs for as long as possible and then Taylor would follow. Taylor's motivation, however, was not fun but exasperation. He can't tolerate Avi's shrieking anymore than we can.

And so, rather than attempting to dissuade the contesters by adding my own shriek to the din, I simply let them wear themselves out.

I just hope no one calls social services...

RS Progressive Dinner

Wednesday evening, my Relief Society had its annual Progressive Dinner. It's kind of like a potluck that occurs in 3 different homes. Women bring the appetizers and desserts while the main course is provided. This year, the main course** was at my house.

**I did not cook the food provided. It was brought over!

The food was fabulous! Phyllo pastry-wrapped chicken, roasted red peppers and spinach was the entrée (which I obviously didn't eat, despite the word "pastry" in the description) and was served with orzo, carrots and asparagus. So delicious!

I got several compliments on my home, despite the fact our new couch hadn't arrived yet and I don't have any decorating blood in me. Our house is pretty bare bones and our very used furniture seriously needs to be retired...

I made sure Shawn heard that people were complimenting his paint job. ;)

Toddler Tenacity

I must admit that I am quite impressed with Avi's tenacity. She insists on walking even though she has to do a full semi-circle just to turn around. When she falls, she stubbornly gets back up again. And again. And again.

It's quite comical to see her so wobbly on her pins! (For those unfamiliar with that turn of phrase, I'm pretty sure it's British for unsteady on her feet.) The balancing act will soon give way to proficiency and, perhaps, even grace. Sad, but inevitable.

Two Babies and a Toddler

My newborn niece and nephew were blessed last Sunday in Vulcan. It just happened to fall on Averi's first birthday. This is also the day that Averi decided to start walking.

She'd been getting a few steps in here and there but now she does it more regularly and for longer periods. Sometimes she'll revert to crawling but she really prefers being on her feet.

Unfortunately, we had left our camera at Lindsay's Calgary reception and so didn't have our camera for this event. (Shawn's parents had saved it for us but hadn't brought it with them.) We didn't get any cake pictures! That's totally going to come back to haunt us... It's a Nelson family tradition to have a picture of 1-year-olds eating their own cake on their birthday. Poor Avi! I think we may celebrate her birthday again, perhaps on Dude's birthday. Neither child is really old enough to care. And that way, Omi will be present. Heck, maybe Omi will make the cake! (Omi makes very special cakes.)

Uncle Aaron did get some footage of her walking though...

Kyle and Lindsay Bullock

I'm sure my mother-in-law is absolutely thrilled that Lindsay's wedding is finally over. The new Mr. and Mrs. Bullock are currently sunnin' and surfin' in Mexico. I think they're the first Nelsons to have a real honeymoon. Diana, George, Shawn and I went to Fairmont, BC (not at the same time, of course ;) ). I'm not sure the rest of the married sibs went anywhere in particular at all. To make up for this, Shawn swears that the first time his parents invite us to their future condo in Hawaii, he'll go into debt for it. He desperately wants a tropical vacation.

*ahem* Back to the happy couple!
The sealing took place at the Cardston temple on Friday, August 15th. There were plenty of babysitters in the form of bridesmaids and family guests, thank goodness.


It was hot! The entire summer has been mostly rain or temperate days but as soon as you have to be outside for something, we get summer weather. My face had a constant sheen of sweat on it. Averi was happy enough climbing her stroller in the shade.

There was a family luncheon in Barnwell, AB, where the groom's side hails from. Speeches included warnings to Kyle about Lindsay and the Nelsons and warnings to Lindsay about the Bullocks. (I'll always remember Kyle's reaction to a potato sprouting eyes placed unsuspectingly in his hand...) Kyle's brother-in-law wrote a poem entitled "So Now You're a Bullock" which was quite fun (see below). Kyle presented a "Tribute to Lindsay" slideshow that had several people in tears (Diana!).

So now you’re a Bullock, and trust me that’s good
Cuz you not only get Bullocks, you get a handful of Woods
And if that’s not enough to make you giddy with glee
As of a quarter to twelve, you’re related to me

I am a Nelson like you used to be
Now we’re a part of the same family
The only reason I’m here’s cuz I’m married to Cari
Her Barks worse than her bite, she’s really not scary

You’ve gained some new in-laws in Cheryl and Bob
And Emily and Blake and the rest of the Mob
But let’s not forget Brandon, the Bullock family Beef
If you want to know him better, look up pictures of the Chief

So now you’re a Bullock and you seem well equipped
I guess that’s why Kyle’s so incredibly whipped
We know that it’s you who has all the power
Why else would he drive 175 clicks an hour

I know it sounds corny to call you Kyle’s main squeeze
But somehow I had to mention macaroni and cheese
This poems dragging on, not much of a quickie
But it won’t last as long as Kyle’s mysterious hickie

So now you’re a Bullock, and for the rest of your life
You’re not just Kyle and Lindsay, you’re husband and wife
You’ve said your “I do’s”, now it’s too late to run
But why would you want to, the best part’s just begun

So now you’re a Bullock, you’re one of our own
And sadly I’ll give up the new in-law throne
We are glad that you’ve joined us, with all that you bring
The family now has at least one person who sings

So now you’re a Bullock, for now and forever
And we’ll have you’re back, through all types of weather
Come rain or come shine, or whatever the test
We will love and support you, cuz that’s what Bullock’s do best.

The reception that evening was also in Barnwell. It was call-in only but there was TONS of food. It was seriously amazing.


The newlyweds spent their wedding night at a secluded, 7,500 sqare foot mansion. All I can say is, "Wow." Lindsay said they plan on spending their one year anniversary there as well. I think it might be a great place for Shawn and I to get away for an anniversary as well. At least once.

Another reception took place in Calgary the following evening. Shawn presented the Lindsay-and-Kyle-growing-up-pics slideshow. It was a collaborative effort from the both of us. ;) The speeches were all repeated and there was a dance following. Dude was, as usual, the life of the party but Avi and Mommy held their own!

Girl Time

I had some surprise company last night in the form of Norm, Ariel and her sister, Hannah. It was decided that while Shawn and Norm would watch Beowulf on the big-arse TV with full surround sound, the girls and I would watch a chick flick on our old TV (the temperamental beast goes in to and out of operation at its merciless whim).

Anyhoo, I picked up 3 rentals that Shawn would never have allowed if he had been present: Penelope, Waitress and How She Move. The first movie was selected for viewing.

Penelope is definitely a fluffy little story. When Shawn asked my opinion, heaven help him, I replied that it was slow, but cute. That's about all I can say about it. I like James McAvoy but he really didn't play much of a role. Christina Ricci, despite some questionable movies, did well. Reese Whitherspoon was hardly in it but I loved! her hair.

Bottom line? I'm not sorry I watched it but I'm sitting on the fence when it comes to recommendations.

(I promise some posts are coming to document Lizzy's wedding and Avi's bday!)

Breaking Dawn

For some reason, I decided to link to my book blog. I read Breaking Dawn last week, fourth in Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series, and put my review here.

Sleep-whiner

There's nothing worse than a kid who whines all day.

Except a kid who also whines all night. In his sleep.

Taylor is one such child.

Only 5,858 days until he goes on his mission.

Why?

My mother told me this day would come.

Tonight, Taylor asked his very first "Why?" question.

Taylor (pointing to Burger King): We getting burgers there?
Me: No, we're getting them over there.
Taylor: Why?
Me: Because they're less expensive over there.
Taylor: Why?

I didn't answer his last question. I just grinned.

Memories

Got this from B's blog:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you.

Wakeboarding and Tubing with the Bullocks

The Bullocks are Lindsay's soon-to-be in-laws. Not that we needed convincing, but inviting the entire Nelson clan to a day at the lake was a very strategic move to convert us all to the way of Bullock-ites. Rock on!

I tried wakeboarding for the first time ever! It's a lot easier to get up than waterskiing but I kept doing nose-dives because I couldn't get myself to turn the board to the side. I'm too used to waterskiing/skiing. You know, feet facing forward. Ploughing water isn't easy but I insisted on doing it every time. A little more practice, though, and I'll have it, no problem! (We've been invited back :) but we'd do it sans enfants... It is a 3 hr trip...)

We also went tubing. Always tons of fun. Screaming makes everything more fun. (Kyle has some pics on his Facebook profile that I'm getting from him.) Lindsay and I wanted a nice, mellow ride. We ended off by diving from "tube" to "tube!"

Taylor was happily occupied all day with enormous amounts of food, toy trucks, sand and water. He wasn't so fond of the boat ride.

Averi was also happy as a clam in the water. Or should I say happy as a fish? Anyway, she adored the boat ride.

Kiddy Antics

Averi has groupies. I wished I had had my camera this evening when three neighbor boys, aged 5,6 and 8? 9? 10?, sat on the grass with her and just stared. Watched her do baby stuff. Girl baby stuff. They were smitten. The 6-year-old took the infatuation further and walked her all around the yard. He tried coaxing her to walk on her own. Who wouldn't be charmed by that scene? (By the way, the 5-year-old was defending Averi to Taylor just last evening.)

Taylor refused to touch the raw broccoli and dip I presented with his supper. I tried several methods to get him to just try a bite before resorting to "Just lick it then!" Taylor licked it. He liked it. He ate more broccoli of his own volition. Score one, vegetables.

Taylor called Averi "Chunk" this evening... Hmmm....

There were a couple more tidbits I wanted to share but darned if I can remember them now.

Chapterbytes

Chapterbytes is seriously the coolest idea since Dairy Queen invented Blizzards. Anyone can become an author and contribute a chapter to an ongoing book! Since I like to write but have no sort of imagination or organization to create and follow through on my own entire story, I seriously love this concept. If you're interested in doing the same, Chapterbytes is always looking for new authors. Check out the About page, which includes the rules and method of contact.

Right now, the theme is chick lit and the book is called Foodie. I contributed my first chapter, Chapter 11, today! You can check it out here or start from the book's beginning here. Some of the writing is really good and, often, comical. Let me know what you think of it by commenting right on the chapter (or you can come back here).

I want to thank Dad, who patiently talked me through some medical details.

Shoot 'Em Up

Shawn borrowed a friend's Playstation 3 so that the first movie we saw on our brand new TV would be high def. He even unpacked all his surround equipment, which is typically kept safe from the kiddies under the stairs in the basement. We rented Shoot 'Em Up on Blu-Ray. Total action mayhem!

High def experience: All I can seriously say is "Wow!" The thing about large widescreen TVs is they make regular DVDs look like VHS. Remember those things? I still own a few. So viewing Blu-Ray was awesome!

Movie review: I was actually pleasantly surprised. It is absolutely true that this movie is a testosterone-saturated, adrenaline-producing flick but the underlying premise was astonishingly original, shockingly thought-provoking and thigh-slappingly hilarious. The action is not entirely meant to be realistic (that baby would've died several times over) but it's definitely thrilling. I highly recommend it to all heterosexual males and believe that even most women would not be opposed to this movie.

B would especially love this movie because she and Clive Owen both share several of the same pet peeves!

Weekend at Omi's

It's late so this post will be brief.

My mother took Taylor for two nights starting Friday. Taylor is really much better behaved without his sister so they had a grand time. They even went on the "city bus!"

When we went to pick up Taylor on Sunday evening, Avi started climbing up the umbrella/banana stroller that Omi had been using to push Taylor around over the weekend. Taylor reacted with verbal possessiveness. Shawn explained to Taylor that it wasn't his stroller, but mommy's and daddy's stroller. Taylor's little mind quickly grasped the implication and said, "No! Mommy and Daddy can't sit in it! You're too big!"

Thanks for the break, Mom! It was wonderful to spend some quality one-on-one time with Avi. I'm sure Avi appreciated the break as well.

Coming soon: Wakeboarding with the Bullocks!

Shawn's New Baby

We could hold off no longer. Our previous 27" television went kaput. This is a 50". :)

Me and My "Girlfriend"

I write this in the absolute confidence that my husband does not read my blog. That used to irk me, but now? Hah!

My little baby girl and I went shopping! this evening. I hardly ever get to go shopping! because of Shawn and the kids. Shawn is very... frugal, shall we say? And kids make anything twice as difficult and three times as long. But since Daddy was at work and Taylor is spending the weekend at Omi's house, I went shopping!. I need work clothes, especially since I've lost weight. I also need shoes but there was still a limited time in which I had to work.

I wasn't really prepared to take a baby shopping, I went after dropping Daddy off, so I didn't have the stroller. I borrowed one at the mall's Customer Service that had a TV in it!! I couldn't believe it! Here I am, pushing a little not-quite-one-year-old around with Barney playing on the little TV! (I did not pick the show.)

Avi was an absolute angel. Most of the stores had change rooms big enough for me to bring her monstrous cart in with me. The one store that didn't, I brought her in with me sans cart and she happily played on the floor with a drinking straw, my shoes and a hanger. I thought for sure she'd make a dash for the stall next door!

When my "girlfriend" started getting fussy, I knew the time had come to leave. My poor, frazzled little trooper! Or should I say shopper?

Rebecca May

Last night, there was an addition to the Nelson family clan! Norm and Ariel finally had their baby girl! They've named her Rebecca May. She was 7 lbs 13 1/2 oz.

Ariel arrived at the hospital in High River fully dilated. Norm and Ariel's mom were afraid she'd deliver in the car on the way! Needless to say, there was no time for an epidural (I hate to say "I told you so" but I will, Ariel! ;) ) Momma is doing just fine despite some tearing.

Averi, Shawn and I went to visit this afternoon (Taylor's at Omi's house this weekend). Averi just loved her new little cousin!

I know you just want to get to the pictures, so here they are. Becca is absolutely beautiful!

P.S. My middle name is Rebecca! Can I say you named her after me?? :)

Mamma Mia!

A girls' night out to the movies turned out to be a bridal party! Lizzy had to wear a veil, carry a bouquet and wear a nametag reading "Bride." The bridesmaids carried flowers, wore nametags and the rest of us had nametags with our relation to the bride spelled out. Of course, my mom's tag wouldn't fit "Mother of the Sister-in-Law of the Bride..."

The movie itself bordered on ridiculous. I haven't felt so much estrogen in a room since Titanic. It was fun, don't get me wrong, but kind of a joke of a movie.

I'm second from the right, my mom on the very right.

Avi Progresses

Avi now takes steps between people with outstretched arms!

Avi goes up and down stairs by herself!

Avi has 4 teeth in the top and 2 in the bottom.

For the last week or so, Avi has been doing the sign for milk. Of course, she hasn't been doing it just for milk. She uses it whenever she wants anything, particularly food. We're still working on the sign for food, more and all done. We started much earlier with Taylor and were much more diligent. She'll get there!

My Body's Nobody's Body But Mine

Today, I feel like reveling in the things that I actually like about my physical self. Too often, women focus on the parts of their bodies that drive them nuts-o. Well, there are a few things I like about myself:

• My nails. They're oval and have deep nailbeds that make them look the perfect length even if I've hacked them off. Which I usually do.
• My hair. It's medium-fine which means it tangles easily but I have tons of it. I have to get it thinned everytime I get a cut. I'd rather have it this way than the other way around... My hair has a bit of wave which means I can't just let it dry, but it holds curl pretty well and can be easily flat-ironed.
• My eye color. While arctic blue doesn't work well with the "smoky makeup" look, it's a fairly unique color. And who doesn't want to be unique?
• My zygomatic arches, aka cheek bones. I don't think about this one much. I think I'm grasping at straws to keep this list going...

Perhaps I should move beyond the esthetic.

• I like my height. I'm slightly above average at 5' 7-3/4" but I can still wear tall shoes.
• I have a terrific immune system. I get my share of colds but it's not uncommon for everyone around me to be sick and I'm fine.
• I'm sturdy. No fragility about my bones. Don't think I've ever broken a one of 'em. While I like the idea of being petite and dainty, femininity isn't dependent on them. I can be hard on my body and appreciate its tolerance. This being said, I don't keep it in shape like I'm supposed to...
• Aside from a stomach sensitivity, I don't suffer from any medical conditions or allergies. I truly appreciate this.
• When I'm pregnant, I don't even get sick (knock on wood). Thank goodness!!
• I have superb mental faculties. I can't complain.

Whenever I see or read about how others suffer, my heart weakens. Not many people know this about me as I'm not overly emotional. I'm typically self-serving and profess not to care about people. But it's why I don't get close to many people. I don't watch the news. I don't read magazines. Suffering has snuck in to my life via the blogging world, however. I do not regret this. I only wish there was something I could do. Impotence drives me nuts-o.

Coming up: Mamma Mia!

"Knight" Out

The plans to see The Dark Knight finally came to fruition. Aaron, Norm, Diana, Shawn and I all went to see the new Batman movie this evening. We saw it in the one remaing IMAX theatre in Calgary at Chinook Mall. Only the action sequences are in IMAX format, but WOW. The show was quite long, but it kept you interested until the last 10 minutes or so. Not like the bloody Lord of the Rings movies where all you can think of is whether you should be doing something else or not.

Heath Ledger's performance was as promised. It was a dazzling display of talent. Unfortunate for the world and his family that he's not around to revel in it. He really stole the show.

After the movie, Norm complained about Diana's eating during the beginning of the flick and Aaron complained about their talking about Diana eating during the beginning of the flick. This lead Shawn to complain about my comments during the flick and then all the guys just complained about women and movies in general. "They're called movies, not talkies." You guys sound as bad as my dad. "They're called sleepovers because you're supposed to sleep." Whatever.

Lizzy's Endowment

My sister-in-law, Lindsay, went through the temple for the first time on Saturday. She's getting married in less than a month! Her parents, grandparents and future in-laws, plus Diana and Aaron were also in attendance.

When one of the temple workers learned my last name, I was asked if I was related. I knew right away that she was referring to Lindsay. I said yes even though it is only by marriage. The worker replied, "She's lovely." I had to agree.

Lindsay is a very special person. I'm sure her fiancé, Kyle, would whole-heartedly concur. ;) Her mother would testify to the same fact since Liz was a stark contrast to her preceding brother, Norm. I often hear the tale of how she would put herself to bed as a young child. She's always been responsible and caring, diplomatic and spiritual.

I realized while attending "Lizzy's session" that I would likely never do so with any of my biological brothers or sisters. It made me quite emotional. Sometimes I'm more like my parents than I think. ;) True to form, Lizzy was patient with me.

Here's the happy couple:

The Weekend

The trips to and from Raymond with the kids weren't too bad. Always a miracle.

Time spent with Becky and her family was, quite surprisingly, enlightening. Her 7-year-old and 4-year-olds were so enamored with Averi that I rarely had to worry about her! To me that says: Wait for child number three until the first two can entertain them! Of course, my reproduction equipment continues to age...

Taylor survived the houseful of girls quite well.

Thanks to Beck for the delish vegetarian meals, the late night chats and for cleaning up after my kids and I!

On the way home, I stopped in Vulcan to see my new nephew and check on my still-prego sister-in-law's status. Still prego.

Here's a pic of Averi entreating her cousin to come out.

Coming up next: Going to the temple with Lizzy.

A Day Off

I still went to work yesterday but Shawn took the kids to Vulcan to visit family, so it felt like a day off. My mother treated me to dinner at CocoBrooks and then to a movie.

We watched Journey to the Center of the Earth in 3D. I didn't think it would work for me since my eyes don't work together well, but it did. It was better than I thought it would be. The trailers made it seem a little hokey and I was concerned that it was a remake of the older movie, which I have very fond memories of. Well, it was a remake but the story was so completely different that it didn't seem to be. Overall, it was good family fun.

When I got home after the movie, Shawn and the kids still weren't home! I enjoyed some leisurely time in front of the piano before heading onto the computer. That's when the garage door signaled that they were home. I helped Shawn put the kids down and then headed off to bed.

Today, the kids and I are heading to Raymond to stay with my friend, Becky. She's a whole 'nother post once I decide how much to share. ;) But you can see a bit of her here. She's the one who comments on my posts as Anonymous, often making wisecracks and dropping insults.

Go to Your Room!

Taylor is quite brutal when it comes to his little sister. He pushes, kicks, hits, spits on and head-butts her constantly. This evening, we sent him to his room after trying numerous other methods of discipline (none of which happened to be spanking, by some miracle).

When I went to free him, I asked him why he was in his room (he's supposed to know why he's in there so he can apologize). He replied, "Because Daddy closed the door!"

**********

Any advice for saving Avi from continuing onslaughts?

Um...

Isn't this supposed to be the other way around?

Park Pics

When Daddy took Taylor and Averi to the park so Mommy could have some time with her sibs, he got some good pictures of Taylor. (Nampa, Idaho - July 3)

Our Most Recent Trip to Idaho, Part II

We arrived in Nampa on Wednesday, July 2nd. Eva told us where we could find a key so we could get into her house while she was at work. We arrived just before rush hour started, as planned. It almost gets as congested as the Deerfoot between Boise and Nampa. ;)

On our first full day there, I had arranged to meet Owen and Lerina at their places of work. I wanted to see where they went and what they did every day. Shawn watched the kids so I could have a day to myself, visiting with the sibs. Thanks, hon!

Owen works at a hospital in Meridian (halfway between Boise and Nampa). It is a seriously beautiful hospital. I had gotten there early and so I walked the grounds a bit. It was before 10 a.m., which is when Boise starts getting hot, so the temperature was ideal, the atmosphere clear and peaceful. I thought of working there myself it was so relaxing! It was also nice to be without the kids after dealing with them during the 5 hour trip the day before. I even met up with a gentleman whose dog works for the hospital! She's their pet therapy program! So cool!

When Owen showed up, I picked him out right away. He's nearly 6'3" and was wearing mostly black. His hair was short for him and he had some facial hair. It grows much faster on him than Jason, who doesn't have to shave for days at a time. Jason actually breaks out in a rash every time he shaves because his face is so sensitive!

Owen showed me around where he works but, of course, I could not watch him during a surgery. Owen is a surgical technician. I'm not certain, but I believe they do instrument counts before and after and hand the surgeons their tools.

Next, I visited Lerina. She, too, works in Meridian, though on the other side. She's a welder. Only female one there and has earned employee of the month at least once. She showed me her workstation and her cool helmet/mask-thingy. She showed me some of the things that she had worked on and all the machines that had pictures of fingers being sliced off (meaning Don't Touch!). She explained the difference between tig and mig welding. She even got permission to show me a bit of tig! She basically works in a dungeon but she enjoys it. She wants to pay off student loans and save enough to do her own thing. She's an artist. Maybe I'll do a post dedicated to her art! I've begged her to do something for me but it takes time and (probably) money and so I continue to wait... ;)

Then, I went to Eva's work. She teaches hair, nails and makeup at the best Cosmetology school in Boise! She treated me to lunch at Ruby River where I ordered a chicken pasta sans chicken. It was delish! Then I got treated to a FREE manicure, FREE pedicure and $5 facial! With tips, I paid only $15 for a dream afternoon! Eva had cut and colored my hair the night before, so I was feeling hot and sexy! Good thing, because we got a sitter for the chill'ns that night and went to a Mexican restaurant for dinner and to see the movie Hancock. Eva did my makeup and I wore my a sundress I had purchased there on my last trip down. We all had a blast!

On July the 4th, Eva gave me beautifully designed gel fingernails! Then Eva, Lerina, Shawn and I (plus the 3 kids) went to have lunch at Quizno's with Kyle who manages there. I had a vegetarian sammy (or two) which was amazing! It was lots of noise, lots of mess but lots of fun. We also went to see the store that Kyle's been preparing to open.

We then left to hang out at the downtown park along Boise's river. We had thought to go paddle-boating but changed our minds. Here're some pics though.



For Independence Day, Eva and Kyle had splurged by buying fireworks! Before the kids went down, Taylor got to watch those worm-y things, throw little spark-y ones on the ground and hold a sparkler. A small toy truck firework was the grande finale.
After our barbeque dinner, the kids played in the kiddy pool. Unfortunately, the water was too cold for the babies! Whoops!


Once the kids went down, it was the adults turn at fun play! The best parts were when someone went to light another firework and the first one had an unexpected daisy-chain! We also got to see some big fireworks going off within Nampa.
We left late Saturday morning for Rexburg, breaking our journey on the way home.

Our Most Recent Trip to Idaho, Part I

There are too many pictures and too much fun for just one post. I will be splitting it into the two parts of our trip: Rexburg and Boise/Nampa.

We left on Friday, June 27. As time has since passed, the details are hazy. I remember the specific time and place, though, that Shawn and I discussed the luxury of traveling in a minivan versus a compact car. It was like going on a cruise! Especially since we now had cruise.

Dad, Wendy, Shawn, the kids and I all enjoyed a hot afternoon at the new spray park in Rexburg. Porter Park also boasts the Idaho Centenniel Carousel. Taylor's clinging for dear life behind me.


Shawn enjoyed a golf trip with Dad and Keith, Wendy's son. There was lots of Rock Band played. We walked around nearby neighborhoods, noting Rexburg's growth. Best of all, was our trip to the new Rexburg temple on Canada Day. It's absolutely beautiful! Wendy informed us that the wood used throughout was imported from Africa. Dad has the pics we took outside in front but I'll try to get one up soon!

Dad and Wendy were landscaping their front yard so we spent a lot of time in it. Here's Grandma Harris and Avi.


We left for my sister's house in Nampa on Wednesday, July 2.
On our way back to Calgary on July 5th, we broke our trip in Rexburg for the night. Here's Avi admiring her handiwork in the kitchen.