Christensen Clan

Valentine's!

2012-02-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

I love Valentine's Day. I love that it allows me time to reflect on all the things I love about people. It also gives me the excuse to be extra lovey and do things that I may not normally think to do. Valentine's is one of my favorite holidays. I have very fond memories of it. Even as a single lady my friends and I celebrated this holiday with pride (we referred it to Single Awareness Day back then). It was still fun. This year I wanted to bring a little Valentine's into my home. It isn't much but enough to remind me of this fun heart shaped holiday.

These are some Valentine's I made for Fischer to take to Daycare. They're Tootsie pop flowers. On the leaf it says, "If Valentine's were flowers I'd pick you."

Fish Lake

2012-02-10T15:26:00.001-07:00

Last month our family got together with my sister's family and we all went ice fishing at Fish Lake. It was alot of fun. I'm grateful for family that I get to do stuff with. The kids had a blast. Fischer hooked his first fish (unfortunately it fell off as we were trying to bring it through the ice). Here are some pictures from the trip.

First catch of the day.

In the cabin we stayed at was this loft. The kids loved playing up there.

Hunter was so nice to read to Fischer. Fischer really looks up to him and Hunter is so good to always include him in everything he does.

Sledding with Daddy.

San Francisco

2012-01-29T19:35:00.001-07:00

I have been so behind in my blogging I haven't even had a chance to post about my San Francisco trip with my totally awesome Sister-in-law.
So here it is, my San Francisco Trip:
Brooke and I decided we both were due for a much needed girls trip. So we left the husbands and kids at home and headed out for San Fran. We couldn't have asked for better weather, it was so beautiful there and it was just nice to get away for a few days.
There is so much to do and see in San Francisco. The first day we arrived we decided to go to Fisherman's Wharf and check out the Pier 39 Sea Lions

This was the cutest lighthouse by the wharf.

After the wharf I wanted to check out China Town. It was quite the little town. There were these live produce shops that had live turtles, frogs, fish, and a bunch of other dead questionable items. On one of the signs into the produce store it read, "All life stock must be killed prior to leaving the store." After seeing that we decided that dinner would need to be had else where. We were a bit worried about any sort of "questionable" meat.

A street in China Town

Me trying to fit in with the locals

The next day we enjoyed a very relaxing Spa and walked the City taking a bunch of different pictures.

I thought this Cathedral was so pretty.

Lombard Street "the Crookedest Street in America"

Of course it wouldn't be a complete girls trip without some shopping involved.

My Totally Awesome Sister-in-law

I couldn't seem to take enough pictures of the Golden Gate bridge.

While walking around we stumbled upon this cupcake store. We won't say how many we ate but we spend the evening in true girl's night fashion: eating cupcakes, jamming to some music (which I have to say...Brooke had some impressive pirouettes going on in that little hotel room) and watching a sappy chic flick movie. It was great!

On Sunday we decided to do a day tour. The tour started out the day by visiting Alcatraz, then to the Muir Wood Forest, and stopping in Salsalito (A cute artsy town on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge). Brooke and I were in High Heaven at Alcatraz. It has the most amazing textures and cobble trails.

This flower was growing next to a cobblestone wall on the Island. It was so pretty I had to take a picture

Alcatraz allowed for some great views of the City and the Bridge

We're so STRONG. We're holding up the tower.

Muir Woods was a cool place with big Sequoia trees and beautiful surroundings.

I thought this tree was cool in a creepy kind of way. It looked like a finger growing out of it.

Since it was our last night in San Francisco we decided to try out one of the fancy restaurants. We picked one on a whim and hoped for the best. It ended up being a french restaurant with the entire menu in French. I don't speak French. Needless to say I'm sure I had that deer in the headlight's look. Thank goodness Brooke took French in High School.

This was a great trip with lots of fun memories. I'm hoping we will get to do another one soon.

Ice Skating

2011-12-29T20:11:00.000-07:00

We took Fischer Ice Skating for the first time the other night. I was surprised by how much he actually enjoyed it. He wouldn't put much weight on his own feet but he sure loved being dragged around the ice. By the end of the night Karl and my arms were pretty tired of holding him up.

Christmas

2011-12-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

We really enjoyed Christmas this year, besides from being sick with the stomach flu, we all actually enjoyed ourselves. We love this time of year where we get to celebrate with family and friends.

One of our traditions is that the kids get new PJ's that they get to open up on Christmas Eve night. This is Fischer showing off his new pajamas.

It was so fun watching Fischer come down the stairs to see if Santa had come. Upon seeing the tree and presents he replied with a quick "Wow!"

This is the bike that Santa left for him. He was pretty excited about it.

Sadie was also excited about Christmas. She was jumping around all over the place. This is her asking me if she can open her gift next. I find it so funny that the dogs get just as excited about Christmas as we do.

Of course we had to try out the new bike that Santa left for him.

Under the Bed

2011-12-24T11:55:00.002-07:00

Nobody likes to get sick, particularly over Christmas. Fischer hasn't been feeling very well the last couple of days. It started right after his party and he's just slowly starting to feel better. This is where we found him this morning, under our bed, asleep.

Fischer-2 Year Pictures

2011-12-24T11:50:00.001-07:00

"Swinging" Good Time

2011-12-24T10:50:00.002-07:00

I can't believe Fischer is 2 years old. He is such a fun kid to have around. Fischer LOVES to golf so for his second birthday we decided to do a golf theme and take him Miniature Golfing. The place we went to was PACKED with people. Which I was surprised by seeing it was 4:30 in the afternoon on a weekday. Either way the kids seemed to have a good time.

Hole in One!

After golfing we went to the house for some cake. We were suppose to have icecream as well but we forgot about it and it never made it out of the freezer to be eaten. OOPS.

Fischer's Cake

The 19th Hole-Party Cake

For party favors each of the kids got a inflatable golf club.

Thanks to everyone who came to the party.

Date Night

2011-12-22T10:53:00.001-07:00

Karl received tickets to go to the Jazz game from his work. With the holidays and other things going on, he and I haven't had a chance to go out just the two of us for awhile. It was fun to get out for a night.

These were our seats, right next to the opposing team. The guy sitting on the floor to the left was literally sitting in front of Karl.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town

2011-12-20T09:18:00.001-07:00

Every year my Sister-in-law has a Christmas Party where even Santa shows up. The kids loved seeing Santa and Fischer was no exception.

How to Catch a Fischie

2011-12-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

Blessings

2011-12-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

The past few days have been difficult. Its been one of those weeks. You know the ones that you hope you never have to experience again; but at the same time gain a better understanding of life and you realize all that you have. That's how I feel. I find myself doing alot of self-reflecting. I know when all is said and done everything always works out the way it should, but it doesn't always make it easy. Although I find myself feeling fine most of the time there are moments when I am sad. I've heard this song many times but it seemed so fitting to my feelings lately. I'm so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who helps me see all the blessings in my life.

Coca-Cola Children's Party

2011-12-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

Every year Karl's work host a children's party for all of the employee's kids. This was the first year we attended. Fischer had a BLAST. They held the party at Planet Play in Draper. Each kid was given a free breakfast, a stuffed animal and a bunch of tokens for games. Below are just a few of the things we did.

Bowling

This was probably one of Fischer's favorite games. Throwing the football with Dad.

Of course we had to stop and play a round of mini golf.

Big Boy Bed

2011-12-02T13:27:00.000-07:00

Fischer will be turning two soon. Can you believe it? I hardly can believe my little baby is already going to be two in a couple weeks. We decided it was time for him to graduate into a big boy bed. So for his birthday we got him a bed. He LOVES his big boy bed.

New Traditions

2011-12-02T13:23:00.001-07:00

I really wanted to start some traditions in our home that focused on the true meaning of Christmas; the Birth of Christ our Savior. This year has been the first year I've really been able to implement them. I have to say I'm loving these little traditions and Fischer seems to enjoy them so far.
Good Deed Manger
My father-in-law was nice enough to make this little manger for me. Every time Fischer does something good, or ask for something nice he gets to take a piece of Hay (yarn) and put it in the manger. The goal is that by doing good deeds we make a soft bed for baby Jesus to lay his head. I LOVE this. Fischer has really seemed to catch on and loves to be able to place hay in the manger for Baby Jesus.

Best Gift of All

For the past few year's I've looked around my house for a good place to put the manger scene. I'm hoping at some point I will get a really nice manger but that will have to wait until my kid(s) are grown up enough to not break it. So in the mean time, Fisher Price's Little people Manger is what we use. Besides, Fischer loves playing with the little pieces. What better place to have a manger setting then under the tree. After all, Christ truly was the best gift we will ever receive.

3 Gifts

This year we have asked Santa that he only bring three gifts for Fischer. For starters, we didn't feel like he needed more then that with grandparents and other family around. The meaning behind the three gifts...the Christ child received three gifts from the three kings.
I'm looking forward to continuing these traditions as we add to our family. I hope that by doing so, we will always remember what Christmas is about.

Christmas Tree

2011-12-02T13:05:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Christmas. Having Fischer around really brings the Christmas spirit to light. This year Fischer helped me do the tree. While decorating, every new thing I would place on the tree would be followed by a, "wow!"

A closer look at some of our cute decorations on our tree.

Bare Bottom Computer Baby

2011-12-02T13:01:00.000-07:00

I guess some deals just can't wait. :)

My Coca-Cola Baby

2011-11-09T16:09:00.000-07:00

Strutin' Their Stuff-Halloween

2011-10-31T13:52:00.000-06:00

We have a lot of fun at our house come Halloween. Fischer, Karl, and I aren't the only ones that get in the action. Sadie and Gus like to strut their stuff on this fun night.

"ROCK"tober

2011-10-30T15:44:00.000-06:00

Last night one of Karl's friends threw a Halloween party. The theme: Rockstars. Everyone came; Dolly Parton, Sunny & Char, Madonna, and many other celebrities. Everyone was dressed as rockstars or rockers. We 'rocked' the night away with good food, laughs, and playing Rock Band. We had a good time.

Ozzy Osborne

Ozzy's groupie.

The Pro Golfer

2011-10-21T14:21:00.000-06:00

Fischer LOVES to golf and play with his clubs so for Halloween this year what could be more appropriate then having him be a Professional Golfer. I had a really hard time narrowing down pictures since there were so many cute ones.

This picture made me laugh so I had to include it. He was upset because he couldn't pick up the pumpkin.

Farewell (waving bye)

Ghost Circle

2011-10-18T19:50:00.000-06:00

I'm always looking for cute decorations I can make without having to spend alot of money. I wanted something for outside and I remember seeing a picture one time of these little ghost that people had placed in a circle. It's kind of stuck with me so I decided I was going to make my own ghost circle to go around my little tree in my front yard.
To make your own ghost you'll need the following items:

Dowels (you'll need a dowel for each ghost you want to make. I made 3)

Styrofoam ball (for each head)

1 1/2 yard of fabric for each ghost (a bed sheet will work too)

Elastics

Ribbon (Optional)

Permanent Marker

Glue Gun

Take your dowel and make a hole in your Styrofoam ball. Add hot glue and glue the dowel inside the ball.

Take your sheet or material and fold it diagonally so that it forms a triangle type shape. Don't worry if your material doesn't line up exactly.

Place your dowel with the head inside the fabric and place an elastic around the the base of the dowel just below the head

Add eyes, mouth or whatever facial feature you would like. I just did the eyes. For added effect I tied a bow around the neck.

Place the dowels into the ground and tie the long ends (hands) together. Wala, you have a cute ghost circle.

If you decide you don't like the circle you could always just do a line of ghost and place them along the sidewalk or entrance way of your house. The possibilities are endless.

Ghost Nails

2011-10-18T16:16:00.000-06:00

Being in the Halloween Spirit I thought I would add some spooky ghost to my fingernails and toenails.

Fishin' with Dad

2011-10-16T17:38:00.000-06:00

Karl took Friday off so that he could take his favorite little man fishing. Fischer had an awesome time and thought Gus (our dog) was HILARIOUS. Gus would splash around in the water and Fischer would laugh so hard he couldn't stand up.

Heading out to the River

Checking out the local wildlife. Fischer thought the fuzzy caterpillar was cool.

Watching Dad show him how it's done.

Fischer had to touch every fish that Karl had caught.

Snack Time!

After a long day fishing he was warn out. He passed out before we made it to the highway.

Fall Fingers

2011-10-07T11:17:00.000-06:00

I like to do fun things with my toe nails but with Fall and Winter fast approaching my toes get hidden by boots and other shoes. So I decided to let my finger nails have the spotlight for a bit. I'm not sure if this design is my favorite, it's a little busy for me. I tend to like a simpler look when it comes to my fingernails. The idea is that its suppose to look like a bunch of fall leaves.

Candy Corn

2011-10-06T16:16:00.000-06:00

With Fall in the air I thought I would do a tribute to something fall-like on my toes. What says fall more then candy corn?

UFC 135-DENVER

2011-09-28T11:44:00.001-06:00

For Karl's birthday I got him tickets to go to the UFC 135 Jones vs. Jackson event in Denver, Colorado. It was a quick trip but we had a lot of fun.

Sights of Denver

Skyline

Denver Bronco's Stadium

UFC Fight Night

This was the stadium as we were waiting for the event to start. Once it got started it was packed.

Karl made a new "friend" while at the fights. The guy next to him was completely wasted. The poor chap couldn't even stay awake. When he did he would start screaming whatever came to his mind like he was all into the fights. During one of his dosing spells the guy ended up dumping his beer all over himself and onto Karl. Karl was a good sport about it and found it mostly humorous.

On the way home we drove through Vernal. Vernal has one of the new smaller temples. I had never seen one so we stopped to take a picture. It was cool. It really wasn't any bigger then some of the older two-story church buildings. It was neat to see.

Overall we had a great time. It was nice to have a weekend with the hubby.

A Family Fun Weekend

2011-09-28T11:28:00.001-06:00

I'm a little behind on this particular post but a couple of week ago we had the opportunity to hang out with Karl's family. Craig and Lori came down for the BYU/UTAH game. They weren't here for very long but while they were here we made the most of there visit.
On Friday we all got together and went swimming. All the kids had a good time. Fischer really had a great time in the water.

Friday night the girls went out on a much needed girls night. We went out for dinner and enjoyed talking and catching up. Joyce decided to stay home and spent some time with the kids.

Saturday before the game we took the kids up to bridal Vail falls.

Fischer was all geared up for the game. GO COUGARS!

While the older kids went to the game. Brooke, Lori, Myself and the younger kids went to the Farm at Thanksgiving Point.

Fischer was a pro on the pony ride. He was quite the little cowboy. He really didn't even need me standing next to him.

We are so glad when we get to hang out with family. We had a great time!

"Ouch...Help...Stuck!"

2011-09-17T11:47:00.000-06:00

This is how I found Fischer when I went to go and get him yesterday morning. Needless to say he wasn't very thrilled with me leaving to grab a camera.

In Memory

2011-09-11T08:24:00.005-06:00

Ten year's ago America became victim to one of the saddest events in history. Thousands died, millions dramatized, and everyone changed. I lost a part of myself that day, I think we all did. We no longer felt safe. I was attending college, I was still living at home at the time and my mother and I were on our way to campus when we heard about the first plane hitting the twin towers. I remember asking my Mom "is this for real?" As we arrived to BYU we tried to get on the Internet to see what was going on. The server was too busy and we ended up huddling around a computer of a co-worker of my Mother's as we watched the second plane hit. I was in class when I learned the first tower fell. My professor turned on the TV and we all watched as the second tower fell shortly after. We all sat there shocked. I remember being in class and learning of a former student whose Dad worked next to the towers. She had not heard of the attacks until she arrived in class. Many huddled around her offering support as she desperately tried to find the whereabouts of her father. I stood and watched not knowing what to say or do to help. All I could do was just stand there numb but praying. Relief overcame all of us when we learned her father was sick that day and didn't end up going to work. I remember walking around campus and we looked at each other all wondering if we should feel safe and what we should do. It was such a somber feeling. Students gathered around TV's and computers as we all wondered what this meant to each one of us and what was going to happen next. We learned of the Pentagon and the other plane. The world as I knew it seemed to be in utter chaos and no one new what to do about it. The weeks that followed were hard. Life went on like it always did but it wasn't the same.
My heart continues to go out to those who lost a loved one that day. May we always remember those who served diligently in rescuing others. May we hold or little ones a little longer, be a little kinder, and love a little stronger.

Pretty Flower

2011-09-10T16:00:00.000-06:00

I decided this week I would do more of a traditional flower for my toes. I had just got back from a FABULOUS Pedi with Katy who owns Sugar and Spice Nail Salon and she had this amazing earthy gray that I just had to have on my toes. As she was painting I thought a cute yellow flower would be a perfect touch to this already amazing color. So when I got home I brought out my paints and went to work.

Team Spirit

2011-09-03T17:48:00.000-06:00

In honor of the football season starting I thought I would dedicate my toenails to the team I love most. GO BYU COUGARS!!

Family Night-Golf

2011-09-03T17:36:00.000-06:00

We always look forward to family nights at our house. This past Monday we went to the driving range.

Girl's Weekend-St. George

2011-09-03T17:33:00.001-06:00

Last weekend the Christensen Girls (Clara, Joyce, Brooke, Kaylee, Kinsley and I) decided to go to St. George to see the Little Mermaid at the Tuacahn Theatre. It was SO much fun. We only wish Lori and her girls could have joined us. It was a short trip but a trip we will remember for a lifetime. We played at the pool, went to the theatre, walked the local farmers market, and did a small hike up Snow Canyon.

Waiting for the Little Mermaid to Start

Snow Canyon

Kinsley & Brooke

Clara with her daughter JoAnn. We were glad she got to spend some time with us while we were in St. George.

Grand Canyon

2011-09-03T17:08:00.002-06:00

Karl recieved an awsome opportunity from his work to be part of a 10 day river rafting trip down the grand canyon. He had such a fun time. Here are a few pictures and videos from his trip.

Picturgraphs and Landscape

Local plants and wildlife

Natures Waterslide

Rapids

A Fun Ride

Do the Crime...Pay the Time

2011-08-28T10:08:00.000-06:00

This is what happens when you're bad at Grandma's

Thirsty?

2011-08-25T16:22:00.001-06:00

This picture is a little old but I finally was able to get it off my phone and thought it too funny not to share. Just to give you the story behind this one...Fischer was asking for a drink and I was in the process of getting him a cup when I turned around (with cup in hand) to find he had helped himself.

Plaid

2011-08-23T21:20:00.000-06:00

Trying my hand on some new designs. What do you think? Comments, suggestions?

Temple Run

2011-08-22T19:58:00.000-06:00

When I was in Jr. High my sisters would take me on what we called a Temple Run. We would get in the car, grab a thing of icecream and either sit in the car or on temple grounds and enjoy our icecream while we talked about what ever came to our minds. When I entered high school and college I would take close friends and we would participate in our own temple run. I love being at the temple. It's such a place of peace and love. I feel enlighten just being around such a magnificent building, the house of my Savior.

Today Fischer and I participated in our first Temple run trip. It was such a touching experience. Sitting eating our icecream and enjoying the beauty around us. It was so nice to feel the spirit with my little man.

The Faces of Sadie

2011-08-20T10:15:00.001-06:00

CHEESE!

What?

Bashful

Bored

The Emotions of Gus

2011-08-20T10:00:00.001-06:00

Innocent

Debonair

Embarrassed

Annoyed

Lagoon

2011-08-13T22:16:00.001-06:00

Karl's work did a Lagoon day today. It was fun taking Fischer and going on some rides together.

Pokodots

2011-08-12T11:12:00.000-06:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE pokodots. So when I decided to do my own toe nails I naturally thougtht why not try pokodots. I have to say I'm pretty pleased with the outcome of them.

Impromptu Bed

2011-08-12T11:01:00.002-06:00

While I was cleaning around the house I went to find Fischer and this is how I found him. Guess he was a little tired.

Yellowstone

2011-08-12T10:59:00.002-06:00

In July, Karl got the awesome opportunity to go be part of a fly fishing study in Yellowstone. He went around with a biologist to different rivers and streams and caught fish for them. The biologist would study and measure the fish and then release them back into the water. It was a fun trip for Karl and he had a great time.

Zoo

2011-08-12T10:37:00.000-06:00

A couple of weeks ago Fischer got the pleasure of going to the zoo with his aunt and cousins. He thought it was preety neet.

Ride em' Cowboy!

Foodfetti!

2011-08-12T10:31:00.001-06:00

Watch Out!..I mean..Fore!

2011-07-26T17:12:00.000-06:00

Last Friday I got to go out on a hot date with my husband. It was SO much fun. Karl arranged to have Fischer stay at Grandma Christensen's (which he LOVED). We started our date with dinner at Madalyn's Stake House in Sandy. If you haven't been I would recommend it. It was fantastic. Then Karl surprised me by taking me to a local golf course. I've always thought it would be fun to learn to golf so I was excited when we pulled up to the driving range. I've never golfed, let alone held a golf club before. Needless to say you can imagine my surprise when he pulled out golf clubs that didn't belong to him. He got me my own set of golf clubs with a golf bag and everything. I felt so official (I know I'm a nerd). But I was feeling pretty cool with my own set of clubs. We had fun whacking the ball around and surprisingly I hit a few good ones myself. (Yay me!). I can't wait to go again and get more practice in.

Lil' Monster

2011-07-21T16:35:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I found this little Elephant like monster roaming my house.

A Day of Happiness

2011-07-20T16:46:00.001-06:00

Seven years ago today I got to marry my best friend. I am also happy to report that in those seven years we have managed not to strangle each other. J/K. In all honesty, I couldn't be any happier. I love Karl more then words could ever express. He fills in where I am lacking, makes me laugh everyday, and reminds me of the beautiful woman he sees in me. I could not think of my life without him.
Karl is still my best friend and I'm glad we can tell each other anything. I can't think of anyone else I would rather spend my time with. Thanks Karl for making these past seven years wonderful. Looking forward to the next many years ahead. Happy Anniversary Luv. Philip. 1:3.

Pirate Island

2011-07-10T12:12:00.001-06:00

We went and checked out Pirate Island for Cousin Ryan's Birthday. The food was good and the kids had fun playing the games. It was hard getting good pictures due to the lighting but all and all everyone seemed to have a great time.

Hunter was really good at helping Fischer with the games.

SUMMERTIME!

2011-07-09T17:22:00.002-06:00

I love this time of year. It's the greatest. It's the time we're outside enjoying everyone's company. I've been a little behind on my posting since we've had so much going on. So please be patient as I try and get caught up on all the fun things we have been doing. Below are post of just some of the things we have been doing.

4th of July

2011-07-09T17:11:00.000-06:00

We had a GREAT 4th. This is such a great holiday. I'm so grateful to live in the country I do. I'm grateful for all the wonderful men and women who serve this country diligently. This year we were lucky enough to have my sister from Texas in town. We did lunch at my Mom's and then that night we all got together for fireworks at our place. It was a lot fun. Together, with the family and neighbors, we had the best show in the neighborhood. I think in total we had about 40 people here enjoying the fireworks.

Alyson with her sparkler

Watching Fireworks with Grandma

(Katelynn & Fischer)

Trying out the Sparkler

Some of the neighbors

I didn't get a picture of it but Karl and I were in charge of the grand finale. We had three of the overhead (now legal) fireworks going off at the same time. It was really fun to see and be that close to them. Thanks to everyone that came, participated, and brought fireworks. This will definitely have to be the beginning of a yearly tradition.

Guys Night

2011-07-09T17:00:00.000-06:00

Watching the UFC fights with the guys while enjoying the Creamie he stole from his Dad.

First Camp Out

2011-07-09T15:23:00.000-06:00

This year Fischer got to experience his first camp out. Every year in June my sister and her husband put on a "crawdad fest" where we all camp out above Strawberry Reservoir. It's usually alot of fun with lots of people, food, and dogs. It's an event for the whole family. Fischer had a blast even though we were only able to stay the one night.

Camping isn't complete without fire. And what is fire without firewood. Fischer was a great helper in gathering wood.

Gathering all that wood is hard work.

Fischer actually LOVED the hammock. He kind of took it over for most of the trip.

One of the guys that was at the camp out brought a tight line for everyone to try. Needless to say all the adults had a fun time trying it out.

Karl's attempt #1

Attempt #2

Fischer then decided to show Dad how it was done.

The dogs had a great time playing and running to their hearts content. In total I believe we had 8 dogs.

Enjoying Smores by the fire.

18 Months

2011-06-27T16:40:00.000-06:00

I'm a little behind on this particular post but Fischer is now 18 months. I can not believe how fast time has flown. Fischer is such a hoot. He is the FUNNIEST kid. He is determined to do everything the big boys do. Try and tell him he's too little...prepare for a fit. Fischer is a great helper around the house. He loved working on the basement with his dad and whenever I do dishes he is right there pulling dishes out and putting them back in. He has grown so much in the last few month. Here are some highlights:

New Words: Dog, more, some, thanks, ball, up, what's this?,
Knows all of his body parts (head, ears, nose, belly button,etc.)
Is recognizing colors and can pick them out if you ask him.
He's starting to sing his ABC's. (Not very well but it sure is cute to see him try).
LOVES to golf. Carries his plastic golf clubs EVERYWHERE. He's always hitting some sort of ball with them.
Likes to climb, be chased, garden with Mom, and wrestle with Daddy.
Shakes his head "no" for almost every question.
Loves to dance around with his mom.
Started Nursery, didn't even care that we left. I think he thought we were holding out on him or something.
Helps himself to the pantry. It's not uncommon for him to be sitting on the floor eating out of a box of cereal. (Our pantry door doesn't latch when you swing the door shut, you have to go and shut it-hence the reasoning to him being in the pantry).

We sure love this kid. He brings so much laughter and spirit into our home. He is non-stop, constantly on the go, kind of kid. We love you Fischer!

Family Pictures-Beach 2011

2011-06-06T15:45:00.001-06:00

I could not be more pleased with our family pictures. Thank you Brooke for taking them for us. Now the problem is picking out the ones I want to get developed for my house.

Vantura-Beach

2011-05-29T17:39:00.000-06:00

It was so fun being right on the beach. It was gorgeous and I loved watching the dolphins in the distance play.

This was the view from the house we were staying at.

Tuesday night the kids found a treasure map that had clues to buried treasure.

X marks the spot.

All the kids started digging

It took alot of work but we were finally able to get the treasure chest out of the sand.

Opening the treasure

Fischer was found a sucker in the treasure chest and he was excited about it.

Reaping the rewards of treasure hunting

Vantura-Six Flags

2011-05-29T17:28:00.000-06:00

Karl, Fischer, and I had such a blast at Six Flags. I let Karl go off with his cousins so that he could get in some of the bigger rides while Fischer and I made our way to the Kiddie Land. Fischer was interested in everything and had a good time on the rides.

This was us with Bugs Bunny

Cruisin' right along

We had a fun time riding with Lori and Parker

Kinsley & Brinley

Cannon & Kylie

Fischer LOVED Tweetie. After we took our picture with him I let him down to walk a bit and he ran straight to tweetie. It was pretty cute.

The Splash Pad

This ride was Fischer 1st big ride. He was such a trooper. He was ready to get off by the end but he didn't cry at all. After the ride everyone gave a shout out to him for doing so well and a bunch of teenagers that were there that got off before we did stood in a line as we got off to give Fischer high fives. Needless to say he thought he was pretty cool.

Monterey-Aquarium

2011-05-29T17:04:00.000-06:00

The kids had a fun seeing all the different animals at the aquarium.

Flamingos

Fischer liked the colorful fishes the best

Jellyfish

Turtles

Penguins

Checking out stuff with Dad

Seahorses

Sharks

They had a touch pond area where the kids could feel sea stars and other marine organisms

My lil' oyster

This was a tunnel that the kids could run through and check out some of the sea life. Fischer had fun running back and forth through the tunnel.

Monterey-Park, Beach, & Other

2011-05-29T11:37:00.000-06:00

THE PARK

We arrived in Monterey pretty early so we all decided to take the kids to a local park. This park was AWESOME! It had a train them where tracks followed around the park to different stations of places that a train may go by. Things like a boat play place, a bridge, waterfalls-slides, mountains-rock wall). They had so many different areas for kids to play in. It was fun park.

MONTEREY BEACH

Kinsley & Brinley playing in the sand

Cute Fischie feet

Fischer went with Uncle Kelly to go check out the waves.

Instead the wave came and checked him out

Needless to say he wasn't very happy about getting so wet. Can't say I blamed him, the water was really cold.

17 MILE DRIVE

In Monterey they have this 17 mile drive that takes you around the City showing of popular golf courses such as Pebble Beach and the coast.

HOTEL FUN-PILLOW FIGHT

Fischer getting Daddy

Daddy getting Fischer

Yosemite

2011-05-29T11:06:00.001-06:00

We started our California adventures by going to Yosemite.

This is Fischer getting ready to go (for those of you who are wondering...No I did not put him in the sink. I had him on the counter and he put himself in the sink)

We all got pretty wet by this first waterfall. It was so misty and the trail heading up to the fall was covered by a stream of water.

Riding Dad was the way to go.

The area was SO beautiful.

Some of the wildlife

Fischer's first bus ride (they bus you around to the different areas of the park)

Fischer had a thing with pinecones. He wanted to pick them all up.

The Cousins

These flowers were growing on a bunch of the trees in the park. I thought they were too pretty not to get a picture of them.

Appearently sticking the tounge out helps.

These rocks were SO big, Fischer had a good time climbing on them.

Sequoia Trees

(The pictures really don't give these trees justice-the were huge)

I love trees

The Clothpin Tree

California

2011-05-29T09:36:00.000-06:00

Our trip to California was SO much fun. We had such a blast. There are lots of pictures coming that I still need to go through, which will be posted soon. For now here is a recap of our trip. On Thursday Karl, Fischer, and I drove to Reno. We didn't end up leaving until later that afternoon so we made it into Reno about 1:00 am Utah time. By then Fischer was not very happy after being in the car for so long. He couldn't get comfortable in the car seat. However as soon as we walked into the Casino we were staying at he was ALL smiles. He was grinning at everyone we walked past. He thought it was pretty cool.
The next morning (Friday) we started our drive again heading towards Mariposa but not without making a quick stop in Roseville (near Sacramento) to meet up for lunch at my Aunt Peggy's house. Fischer had a blast with my Aunt and she spoiled him rotten with a beach truck and sand toys. Cousin Amy also was able to stop by and it was good getting caught up and spending some time with them. I wish I had gotten a picture of Fischer with my Aunt and Cousin because he had such a good time with them but I completely forgot to get one and realized that 15 minutes after leaving their house.
We arrived in Mariposa later that evening, waiting for us was Kent, Brooke, their kids, Karl's parents, Kaylie and Kelly. We mostly stayed around the hotel that night. Saturday we spent the day in Yosemite. It was such an amazing place. The waterfalls were beautiful and the scenery just amazing. Fischer had a blast. He climbed rocks, played in dirt and just had a great time being with his cousins. Sunday we packed up and headed for Monterey. Since it wasn't too long of a drive and we got there pretty early, we were able to go to this awesome park around the corner from our hotel. The park was huge and had different stations of play area for each age group of kids. Everything from little tots to the grown up Adult who still was a kid at heart.
In Monterey we met up with Karl's other Brother Craig and his family. We got to meet Parker (who is over 6 months old) for the first time. After the park we decided to stop off at the beach and spend some time there. The kids loved running away from the waves and it was fun seeing them have a good time. That afternoon Karl went with some of the other siblings and did what's called the 17 mile drive around Monterey Bay. It's a drive that goes around the City and drives past some beautiful golf courses such as Pebble Beach and Spy Glass.
That evening I got to play photographer and get some pictures of Brooke and her family. Unfortunately it was windy and cold which made it hard for the kids (which ended up being okay because we were able to get more pictures done of them later on in Vantura). Monday we went to the Monterey Aquarium. Fischer liked the colorful fishes the most. After the aquarium and lunch we all headed South to Vantura to stay at a beach house that Karl's parents rented for all of us. The beach house was awesome, it was big, roomie and the view...GORGEOUS. I could not stop staring at the ocean. My favorite part was watching the dolphins play in the distance every morning and afternoon. The beach was so nice and the weather could not have been better. Brooke was nice enough to do some new family photos of Karl, Fischer and I Monday night.
While in Vantura we got to meet up with Janet, Karl's Aunt and his Grandma Dorris. They were awesome. Janet had pre-made dinner for us when we arrived at the house. It was great to see Dorris and have Fischer meet her since she hadn't had the opportunity to meet him. Tuesday we went to Six Flags. Karl was so excited he could hardly sit still in his seat while we were driving to the place. He was like a kid on Christmas morning. Since I knew he wanted to do some of the bigger rides I let him go off with his cousin while Fischer and I made our way to the Kiddie Land area.
Fischer had a fun time. He seemed to enjoy the rides and was quite interested in the Loony Toon characters walking around. He still is pretty little so his options on rides were limited but he was able to go on the Buccaneer which is a big ride where the boat swings back and forth. We sat in the middle so it wouldn't be such a swing but I don't think it made much of a difference. Even in the middle my stomach was going so I could only imagine what his was doing. I was surprised how well he did with it. He was ready to get off but he didn't cry or complain. It was actually really cute. There were a bunch of teenagers there due to what I could only assume was Senior day or something. Anyway they all cheered for Fischer and even the Lady running the ride went over the intercom and said to give it up for the little guy. The teenagers all got out of the boat before we did and when we got out they were all lined up to give Fischer high fives as we walked away from the ride. Needless to say Fischer thought he was pretty cool.
That night the kids went on a treasure hunt that Lori and Brooke put together. The kids had clues as to where to go and they all had to help unburied the treasure in the sand. It was fun seeing them figure out the clues and get all excited about the treasure. Wednesday while the boys went golfing that morning, the the rest of us hung around the house and were beach bums. We laid out in the sand and went and checked out the local park that was down the beach a little ways. Fischer loved playing in the sand. Give him a shovel and he was perfectly content. That evening we all got together for dinner and a Christensen family photo.
Thursday morning we packed up and made the long drive home. It was so fun being with the family and doing things we all enjoyed. I was sad to leave such a beautiful place but it has been nice being home. Thanks to everyone who made this trip such a special one.

Making Progress

2011-05-03T22:57:00.000-06:00

Finishing a basement is hard work and seems to take forever. I really have to give a shout out to Karl who has done nothing but slave away to try and get this done for our family. It'll be nice addition to the home once it's completed. It still feels like we have a ways to go but we are making progress. Currently we are in the process of priming our walls. In our family everyone helps out and Fischer was no exception.

Since Karl was painting the ceiling Fischer decided the floors needed painting too.

"James...Fischer James"

2011-05-02T16:07:00.001-06:00

Since last Sunday was Easter we spent the day with family. So this was the first Sunday Fischer got to wear his "Easter" outfit. (Okay, so I've had this outfit for months waiting for him to fit into it-but this seemed like the perfect day to try it out). I have to say he was quite a hit with the ladies at church. Young or old he flirted with ALL the ladies.

Fischer's R & R

2011-05-02T16:00:00.000-06:00

I know I post lots of pictures of Fischer but I just can't help myself. He's just so dang cute!

Easter, Part 2

2011-04-25T17:30:00.000-06:00

Easter was a fun and busy day for us.

EASTER MORNING

This was Fischer's Basket.

Fischer thought it was pretty neat.

Of coarse Fischer had to try some of the candy.

As you can tell he liked it.

EASTER AFTERNOON-ANDREASON'S

That afternoon my Mom invited us to her place for lunch. The kids had a blast.

And look what the Easter Bunny left Fischer at Grandma's place!

Actually this nifty 'little' toy belongs to Uncle Glenn but he was nice enough to take us for a ride.

After lunch, we had an Easter egg hunt.

Grandma was nice to help Fischer find some eggs.

Maddie and Hunter were definitely in the action

After all the eggs were found we posed for a picture

Then Grandma and Grandpa surprised us with a pinata. At first dad had to show Fischer how to hit the pinata.

Then he decided he wanted to do it by himself

WACK!

EASTER EVENING-CHRISTENSEN'S

Later that night we went to Karl's family for dinner.

Grandma and Grandpa Christensen spoiled the kids with Easter baskets.

And provided an Easter Egg hunt. We all had to stand on the porch until until Grandpa said go.

Because Fischer was the youngest, he got a head start

But then he was distracted by an airplane that was flying over.

But he eventually got over the airplane and started gathering eggs.

Once all eggs were found we gathered together for a picture.

It was a great day spent with our family. We are truly blessed to have most of our family close by.

Bunnies, Bunnies, Everywhere!

2011-04-23T21:51:00.000-06:00

I don't know about your house, but at my house when Easter gets close we have bunnies running around everywhere. They're quick little buggers but I managed to get a couple shots of the bunnies at our place.

Easter, Part 1

2011-04-23T21:44:00.000-06:00

Today we had the pleasure of participating at the annual Easter egg hunt held at the Legacy Center where Karl's Grandma, Clara lives.

We were lucky enough to catch a picture of Fischer and the Easter Bunny before the Easter Egg hunt started.

Fischer was ready to go as we were waiting for the Easter egg hunt to start.

Let the egg finding begin!

After the hunt was over of course we had to expect the eggs

Fischer and his cousin Kinsley got to hunt eggs together since they were in the same age category.

And of course we had to get a picture of our family

Then we had to get a picture of all the kids...

and everyone at the hunt (minus Grandpa Mike who was taking the picture)

Afterwords we went up to Clara's apartment to visit for awhile. While there Clara walked out in the hall with the kids to show them all the decoration and let them run around. Each resident had decorated their door area. It was really fun to see what everyone did. This particular door was Fischer's favorite. This gentleman had placed a gumball machine with candy in it. He then placed a little soup can on the floor with pennies in it with a note on the top of the gumball machine telling people to please help themselves.

This was Fischer pointing out the candy to Dad.

Watching Dad turn the handle

Digging into the candy

He was so excited about it he then turned to tell me about it. Mouth full of candy of course.

I loved this shot of Fischer and his Dad walking down the hall together. They're pretty good pals.

Before we left we had to get a picture of Grandma Great and all the kids.

Thanks Clara for inviting us in the fun and letting us play at your place for a bit.

Resurrection Cookies

2011-04-22T14:36:00.000-06:00

Being a new mom it's important to me to start fun family traditions. With Easter around the corner I really wanted to do something that was not only fun, but brought the true meaning of Easter in my home. I tried this out with my 10-11 yr old activity day girls and they loved it. (Fisher helped me with the first batch since I made some ahead of time so the girls could actually try them.)

Children of all ages LOVE to help make these cookies (as well as eat them) and reading the story that goes with it. Ideally, you make them the night before Easter but you can enjoy them any time you want to remember and experience the joy of the Resurrection! You will need:

1 cup whole pecans
3 egg whites (if using smaller eggs, add 1 additional egg white)
1 cup sugar
A wooden spoon
A Bible
1 teaspoon Vinegar
A pinch of salt
1 zip-lock baggie
Some heat-resistant tape

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees before you start
Place the pecans in the zip-lock baggie and let the children beat them with the wooden spoon to break them into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was beaten by the Roman Soldiers. Read John 19: 1-3.
Let each child smell the vinegar. Put the vinegar into a mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink. Read John 19:28-30.
Add the egg whites to the vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10:10-11
Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and then brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin. Read Luke 23:27
So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing! Add the sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him. Read Psalm 34:8 and John 3:16.
Beat the mixture with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes, until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus. Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3. (Note: If your mixture doesn't ever get to stiff peaks it just means it needed more egg whites. Do not despair, use the batter as is. It will still work. It will just spread more cookie-like then staying in a mound)
Fold in the broken nuts. Drop the mixture by teaspoons onto a wax paper-covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid. Read Matthew 27:57-60
Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door, and TURN THE OVEN OFF!
Give each child a piece of tape and let them SEAL THE OVEN DOOR with the tape. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed. Read Matthew 27:65-66.
GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read John 16:20 and 22.
On Easter morning (or the next morning), open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are HOLLOW! On the first Easter, Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty. Read Matthew 28: 1-9.

Have fun with the cookies, and have a very blessed Easter.

Every Last Bit

2011-04-21T15:02:00.000-06:00

These pictures were actually taken awhile ago from my brother but I thought them too cute not to share. Grandma was making whip cream for a dessert and Fischer had a grand ol' time licking the beaters.

This picture makes me laugh. Had to make sure he got all the cream off Grandma's finger too.

Lil' Punkster

2011-04-10T11:09:00.003-06:00

The "TAT"

The "TOUGH" Guy

The "HOG"

Showing of "the GUNS"

Vintage Eggs Continued

2011-04-06T16:36:00.001-06:00

One of my favorite things about the Vintage Eggs is the endless possibilities that you can do with them. In my Vintage Egg post I mentioned that I did some of my eggs in pieces so I could place candy inside them and give them out as gifts.

I just made some yummy snacks placed them in a little bag and placed it inside the egg. You could use anything you want, jellybeans, M&M's, what ever you like.

I love that they make great gifts for neighbors, friends, or family.

Other things that some of my friends have done as they've created their own vintage eggs was used colored scrapbook paper. They turned out darling and gave the eggs a bright fun twist on the vintage look. For a tutorial on how to create you own Vintage Eggs Click Here.

Little Bits of Happiness

2011-04-02T09:11:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you but I can't help but smile when I see flowers

Nothing makes me happier then the sight of Spring blossoming around me. These were in my garden and I just had to bring some inside. Hope they make you smile as they do for me. Happy Spring!

Vintage Eggs

2011-03-28T14:48:00.002-06:00

I've been feeling the need to be crafty lately. Or at least attempt to be crafty. I really wanted to decorate my house for Easter. However, I haven't wanted to spend the money to do so. I saw a picture of these eggs and thought, I can do that. This was a great craft for me. It was cheep, easy, and added just enough flair for my taste.

So here is what you will need to make your own vintage style easter eggs.

Plastic Eggs (I got mine at the dollar store)

Glue or Epoxy

Paper from an old book, scripture or hymn (I bought a bible at the dollar store and ripped pages out of it. The look of the hymns on the eggs would be what I preferred but I just wasn't about to rip up my hymn book)-Newspaper could work too.

Buttons, ribbon, or whatever other nick-knacks you have around your house (not pictured)

Take your paper and cut it into strips. Place glue or epoxy in a little plastic cup. (Note: if you use glue I added a bit of water to thin it down.) Place your strips of paper in the glue and place them over your plastic egg.

If you noticed, one of the eggs I did in pieces. I didn't do that with most of them since it was extra work but I plan on decorating the half pieces, place some candy in it, and give it out as a gift to the ladies I visit teach. For my house and decoration purposes I just covered the whole egg.

Once all the eggs are covered let dry. Gather together ribbon, lace, buttons, paper or nick-knacks you have lying around and decorate. Place eggs in a basket, glass case, candle sticks or whatever you have. The possibilities are endless.

I removed my candle on my candle stick and placed my egg on it. For added effect I added some of that moss stuff you can buy at the craft store (or steal some from a fake plant you have around the house- they all have it) to create a nest type effect

I had this little glass case so I placed a bunch of the smaller eggs in it.

It isn't much but it was just enough for me to feel like Easter is coming. So for $3.00 (the two sets of eggs-big and small, and the bible I bought so I wouldn't have to rip up mine) I was able to give my house a bit of an Easter touch.

Eating...An Exhausting Task

2011-03-21T16:09:00.000-06:00

Dinosaur Museum

2011-03-15T17:18:00.002-06:00

Today Fischer and I went to the Dinosaur Museum at Thanksgiving Point. We met up with Brooke and the kids. Fischer was SO cute and the cousins were darling with him. They all helped him out by showing him the different dinosaurs and holding his hand so he could walk with them! He was interested in everything. He would just stare through the glass looking at the dinosaurs. He followed the kids around not wanting to be left behind. Here are some pictures of today's outing.

Checking out the dinosaurs

The Gang

Mom and Fischer

"Getty Up Dino"

Diggin' for fossils

I'm so grateful to have family so close that we can get together to do these things. I love that Fischer has cousins on both sides of the family that he gets to see so often. He truly is one loved little boy.

Fun Times

2011-03-15T17:01:00.000-06:00

Fischer and I have been having lots of fun lately. I've been meaning to post pictures but I'm a little behind. Last week we met up with Brooke and her kids and went to Jump N' Bounce. I wish I could say Fischer had a great time but he really wasn't that into it. He had just started getting over being sick and I'm not sure he was completely better yet.

JUMP N' BOUNCE

Kinsley and Fischer hanging out on the blow up ball

I love Fischer's face in this. It cracks me up. This his him with Aunt Brooke and Kinsley

DANCESPORT

On Friday, Fischer was my date to the BYU National Dancesport (AKA: Ballroom Competition). It was fun seeing old friends and watching all the dancers. It really made me miss competing and dancing. While there I got to see my favorite event. The National Amateur Cabaret. One of my good friends that I've known since High School competed in this event. It was fun seeing Fischer's face as he watched all the different dancers. He seemed intrigued by the colorful ballgowns twirling around on the floor.

This is Kurt and his partner. They did really well and placed 4th.

This couple was AMAZING. (Picture Above) The stunts they did were jaw dropping. My favorite number by far.

Too Funny not to share

2011-03-09T15:03:00.001-07:00

Many of you know that I have been a big fan of Zumba. Totally love it. A friend posted this video and I just had to share. (Once the video starts, double click on the screen to make it bigger so you can see all of it)

Future Pianist?

2011-03-08T16:07:00.000-07:00

Maybe not quite a pianist yet but he sure did have fun playing around.

V.I.P. Treatment

2011-03-06T12:25:00.002-07:00

Last night Karl and I got to go on one of the coolest dates. Karl received some Jazz tickets from work for the Jazz vs. Sacramento Kings game. But these were not just any Jazz tickets....Second row, courtside seating right behind the opposing team. Just to get to your seats you have to walk right by the teams locker room. The tickets included reserved parking, a full out buffet style dinner on the roof of the Energy Solutions Arena overlooking Salt Lake City, and an all you can eat snack bar during the half time show. It was AWESOME. The food, was amazing, everything from prime rib, lobster, chicken, pork and and two tables worth of desserts. The snack bar had nachos, popcorn, icecream, shrimp, drinks and cheeses. So what does tickets and a dinner like this go for...$704.00 a piece. Yup $1400.00 for the two of us. The tickets belong to the President of Swire Coca-Cola and Karl was lucky enough to receive a set along with the President, his wife, and another couple. It was fun seeing how "the other" side lived for a night. Jack, the President, was really cool and down to earth and it was fun getting to know them on a more low key level. It was a fun night by all and a great game.

A Rough Night

2011-03-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

Fischer has had quite a rough night...well...actually more like a rough week. He's been sick with a deep chest cold. Every time Karl saw him he would say that Fischer looked like he had been hit by a truck. He was just that out of it. Then on Thursday he ran into a coffee table at the sitters house and gave him quite the little bump on his head. Well last night and today was the first time he actually started to act like himself, or so we thought. So tonight we figured he would be okay to go to Lowes with us while we picked up some items for our basement we are finishing. Perfectly harmless. Boy were we wrong.
Fischer who normally loves riding in the cart only wanted to be held, which should have been my first clue. Since Karl was going to need my help lifting things, holding him was basically out of the question. So I got his blanket so he could love on that in the cart. Next thing I know Fischer is throwing up EVERYWHERE, non-stop. It was ALL over him, ALL over the blanket, splattered ALL over the floor, down my leg, on my shoe, completely covered the front part of the cart. It was so gross. Chunks and liquid everywhere and the smell....we'll just say it took every ounce of me to keep my own stomach in check. It was awful. I just stood there in shock, not really sure what to do. A nice Lowes lady who was near by totally came to our rescue with towels, bags, a garbage can, and disinfectant. All I have to say is that whatever she is making wasn't nearly enough with the mess Fischer had created. It was so bad we had to strip Fischer out of his clothes right there in the store. They were too wet and messy to wipe down. After that I wrapped Fischer in my sweater and out to the car we stayed until Dad finished with the remaining items. Thank you Lowes for being SO nice about the situation and quick to help us get the mess cleaned up.

Birthday Bash

2011-02-24T21:49:00.002-07:00

It has been a great birthday for me. This morning I got sung Happy Birthday by Karl (not very well I might add) but hey it's the thought that counts right? My co-workers then took me to lunch, and this evening I got to spend it with the two boys I love most.

Karl surprised me with the following flowers when he arrived home.

Did I mention I LOVE Gerber Daisy's. They're my favorite.

We started the evening off with dinner at Chili's. After dinner we went bowling. Fischer was my little helper. He was being a total momma's boy.

This is him helping me pick out a ball.

This is us bowling. We scored a whopping 48.

It was fun hanging out with my boys. Thank you to all my family and friends who made this day a special one for me.

Ice Castles

2011-02-22T15:41:00.002-07:00

Yesterday for President's Day we went and saw the Midway ice castles with Karl's family. It was a lot of fun and the kids thought the castles were really cool. If you haven't been, I suggest going to see them.

Hitching a Ride on Dad

Fischer w/Aunt Kaylee and her Friend Adam

Fischer and I

Fischer with Grandma Joyce

Kinsley and Cannon

Walkin' with Dad

The kids

Fischer w/Aunt Brooke

Fischer and Uncle Kelly

Journals

2011-02-20T21:13:00.005-07:00

A bunch of my friends have blogs showing off all the cute things they do and the amazing talents they have with refurbishing items and such. I'm always inspired by their creativity and cute decorations. So this post is my poor attempt at copying them (you know who you are), and showing something that I thought turned out really cute and was really fun to all involved. Many of you may not know but I am currently the activity day coordinator for the 10 and 11 year old girls in my ward at my church. This means we get together twice a month to work on something in there Faith in God books or do activities that help build character and friendships with one another. This last activity we, the leaders and I, decided to discuss the importance of keeping a journal and how journals can be a source of personal scriptures to us. We gave each girl a list of 30 questions to put in a jar (we actually did bags because the budget didn't allow for jars). The idea was that it takes 30 days to make or break a habit, hence the 30 questions. The questions also gave the girls something to write about if they didn't know what to write about. Anyway for our activity we had each of the girls decorate there own journal. I went and bought notebooks for each girl at Walmart for $.94 each. You could probably get them cheaper if you buy them right before school starts when all the school supplies are on sale.

Here is the before.

Kind of boring and uninviting don't you think?

We supplied the girls with scrapbook paper, ribbons, buttons, and any other nick-knacks we could think off. I have to say I was SO impressed with the creativity of the girls. The journals all turned out SO cute.

Here is the after

Aren't these just darling? Much more inviting to write in.

A before & after comparison.

These are such an easy thing to do and could be such a cute gift to have your kids handout to their friends. Buy a pen and Wa-La you have a personalize, cute, yet affordable gift to hand out.

KIX

2011-02-20T21:10:00.001-07:00

Kid Tested Mother Approved!

For those wondering...Yes he did this himself.

Mmm Mmm Good

2011-02-20T20:22:00.002-07:00

He really liked this meal.

Blow Fish Faces with Dad

2011-02-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

Toilet Paper Anyone?

2011-02-05T20:30:00.000-07:00

Dangerous Combination

2011-01-31T15:38:00.002-07:00

First off I have to begin by saying how grateful I am that no one was hurt. This could have ended vary badly. Fischer definitely had some guardian angels watching out for him. With that said...so Sunday Fischer and I were in his room. Fischer has this night light that has a metal cover with a cute cut out of a fly fisherman. Anyway, he loves playing with the smooth metal piece and often pulls the metal cover off the light. So on Sunday he had pulled it off and was just playing with the metal piece next to me. What I hadn't noticed was that when he pulled it off he also pulled the light section of the nightlight partially out. It was still plugged in but the metal prongs that go into the outlet were showing a bit. I turn my head for a second since I was putting clothes away for him only to turn around and see him trying to "fix" the light and put the metal piece he had pulled off back on the light. As he tries to do that, and before I can grab it from him, the metal piece fell behind the bulb, touched the metal prongs that were still plugged in, and to my horror I hear the awful buzz of electricity flowing through something it shouldn't followed by an explosion and a big fire ball. I scream and immediately attend to Fischer to see if he is okay. He was absolutely fine. He didn't even cry, nothing, just looked at the outlet, put his finger to his mouth and gave a look to me like, "hmm, that was cool." I'm not sure how that kid didn't get hurt other then by some angel watching out for him. He must have let go of that metal piece just in the nick of time. Anyway here are pictures of the "damages".

If you look at the top of the night light you can see two little dents. That's where the metal met up with the prongs.

Ice Fishing

2011-01-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

This last weekend we had pleasure of joining some family and friends on an icefishing trip to Fish Lake near Richfield. We had fun. It was nice getting away for the weekend.

DAY 1

This is us riding to where everyone was on the ice.

The Christensen Clan

Mom and Fischer

The first catch of the day

All the fishing was rough so Fischer took a little cat nap

Us and our friends chillin' out in Uncle Andy's ice fishing tent

Fisher really enjoyed riding in the sled.

(Not that he looks like it here but he did enjoy it)

Dad pulling around Fischer in the sled heading back to the cabin. Don't you love how you just see the top of his little head poking up?

DAY 2

Fischer catching his first fish

Fischer's fish

After an eventful trip he was exhausted. He slept most of the way home.

Thanks everyone who came, it wouldn't have been the same without you. And thank you to the Jensen's for making this all possible and inviting us to come along.

1 Year Pictures

2011-01-21T11:08:00.004-07:00

I'm so excited how Fischer's 1 Year old Pictures turned out. He's getting so big.

This is Fischer dressed to impress.

My Outdoors Man

It All In The Way You Say It

2011-01-18T13:30:00.002-07:00

I'm always laughing at the way my toddler and my dogs interact with each other but as I was laying in bed last night I couldn't help but giggle about all the things I say when they are interacting with one another. If not in context they come off quite odd and funny. Anyone that has a dog or any pet with kids might find some of these things familiar but here are some funny things I find myself saying:

"No sucking on the dog."
"Stop smooching the baby!"
"Don't lick that!"
"Stop biting the dog"
"Get your head out of the diaper."
"Get your nose out of the crib"

and my personal favorite...
"Catch the diaper it's running away!"

Oh the life with dogs and a kid. Got to love it!

Bath Buddies

2011-01-17T09:47:00.003-07:00

This gives a whole new meaning to "man's best friend." Fischer has a new bath buddy apparently. Sadie decided that she needed to join him in the tub. She always seems to be wherever Fischer is. They really are the best of buds.

Dancin' Up A Storm

2011-01-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

As some of you may or may not know I was volunteered (by my boss-who I will eventually return the favor) to be part of a ballroom dance competition. Eagle Mountain City and the City of Saratoga Springs compete against each other along with some staff from the High school in a mock "Dancing with the Stars" type thing. Each person is paired up with a student from the Westlake High School Ballroom Team (the professional). They then teach us staff (the stars) a rueteen and then we complete. I am doing the cha-cha. Below is the information for anyone who is interested in coming.

West Lake High School Ballroom Dance Company Presents:
A night of Ballroom Dance Competition featuring City Officials (AKA: Me), firefighters, teachers and students from Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs

Saturday, January 15th 7:00 pm

** Note: There will also be another show on Saturday January 22nd, but I'm only perticipating in the Saturday, January 15th event so if you want to see me dance you'll have to come to that one.

Westlake High School Theatre
General Admission $5
Two-night Ticket $8
Family Pass $25
Family two-night Pass $35

For advance tickets and additional information call 801-610-8815 or email: cbastian@alpine.k12.ut.us

A Scratch, A Bump, and A Bruise

2011-01-09T16:42:00.001-07:00

I meant to post this earlier but Fischer has began to discover the art of climbing. If any of you have been to my house you might have noticed the little half table in the entry way. Well...Fischer thought this would be a GREAT little peice of furniture to climb on. Needless to say, it and him went down together with the entry half-table landing on top of his head. I felt SO bad but he was trooper. A little love from Mom and a blanket with tassles seemed to make everything better. Unfortunately the table left it's mark.

Hair Cut Gone Bad

2010-12-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

What happens when you give a 1 year old a hair cut and he doesn't hold still?

He ends up with a very high hair line.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-27T15:22:00.000-07:00

We had a great Christmas this year. It was so nice being able to spend it with family and friends.

This is Fischer Sportin' his new PJ's on Christmas Eve night.

Christmas Morning Stocking Stuffers

Everyone getting ready to open presents Christmas Morning. Don't you just love that Gus has his head in a bag that did not belong to him. Such a snoop.

Opening Presents

Santa was good to the dogs too.

Sadie showing off both her and Gus' toy. Hers is the pink one.

Later Christmas night we got to spend the evening with Karl's side of the family where we got to open presents there too.

Fischer was one spoiled little boy

12 Months

2010-12-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that a year ago today one of my greatest joys in life entered this world. Today Fischer is 1 year old. Wow, time really does fly by. This past year has been SO much fun. To think of Fischer and how far he has come and all the things he has accomplished just amazes me. I sure love that kid. I don't have one year pictures yet but check back soon as they will be coming. Here are some fun things from the past month.

He started really crawling and crawls EVERYWHERE.
He climbs stairs (unfortunately we haven't figured out how to climb down them yet).
He pulls to a stand and coast along the furniture.
His first top tooth came through another one coming soon. (it's his top side teeth that are coming in so he's going to end up looking like a little vampire).
He knows where his nose, eyes, and ears are.

1 Day Old

1 Year Old

My First Birthday Party

2010-12-19T15:44:00.002-07:00

On Friday, Mom and Dad threw me my first birthday party! Mom thought it would be cool to have it be a shapes and colors theme. The party was a lot of fun and I loved having my friends and family come join me on my big day. Here's a look at my party:

THE DECORATIONS

THE CAKE (or should I say cupcakes)

MY GUEST (or some of them anyway)

OPENING PRESENTS

Even with all my presents. I thought the clothes hanger was just too cool to put down.

THE CAKE

This is me getting ready for my cake. I was sure excited.

Mom thought it would be a good idea to light a candle. However, what she didn't know was that I would be intrigued by the flame. So this is me before.

This is me after.

Ouch! That flame and wax on the candle was hot!

Once I got over the hurt of my burned finger I thought I would give the cupcake a try.

This stuff is pretty good.

I sure made a mess

So I decided to lick myself off

This last picture is of me, my Mom and my Dad.

Thanks everyone for making my first birthday party a fun one. Oh, and thanks Aunt Brooke for capturing all the fun moments of my party.