Our Nest Happenings

Happy ThanksgivingChristmasNewYear!.....

2012-01-25T05:40:00.000-08:00

.....and anything else that I may have missed while away from this blog! Well, I will not be able to catch up on everything because frankly, I don't have the time...or the energy right now. A few highlights would be school, Cutler's first birthday (already?), vacation, and school (yes, I said school twice). Christmas is always a highlight though!

First off, school. I started school last Fall after taking a semester (Spring) off to spend at home with TWO boys. It was so nice to have all that time dedicated to being mommy and wife and not mommy, wife, AND student...esp with a newborn to love on. I enjoyed my first semester very much. I was busy for sure. I didn't get out much. Ha! The winter break was much anticipated!

Winter break was finally hear and so was Cutty's birthday! Wow, time just wooshes on by without you even noticing. We had family over to our house for cake and snacks and just all around grand time shared together! Cutty really enjoyed his cake...and being the center of everyone's attention. It is so fun to see his little personality shine through! That same and went and a week later it was time to celebrate CHRISTmas. We missed Britt and Ali very much this year and every other time the family gets together (this makes the time we share with THEM that much more special). Rider had a blast opening his presents and Cutler just enjoyed playing in the piles and watching Rider..and we all just enjoyed watching both boys!

We actually got to get out for a New Year's Eve celebration at friends' house and enjoyed our time with them very much! But we never seem to make it to the ball drop! Cutler just shut down and wanted to go home to his own bed...and Evan was all about going to sleep himself. For once it was him and NOT me. I am the "party pooper" a lot of the time (I just wear myself out and get tired at like 9pm! .....OLD!) I was thrilled that for once I actually could have stayed for hours more!

Speaking of sleep....vacation with only my husband was just what the doctor ordered! We went on a cruise..just the two of us. We missed our boys very much, but thoroughly enjoyed our time away in the warm/hot temperatures of the Caribbean! Funny how things change as you age and become parents. We were happy to just relax all day and didn't feel the need to keep ourselves busy. Vacation is looked at more now as a time to finally go to sleep when we want and wake up when we want and "veg" when we want! I took some necessary reading material with me because classes started two days after our return home!

Rider and Cutler seemed to have enjoyed their time with both sets of grandparents (what would we ever do without them?).

Two days later I started back to school and am now in my second week, but not without our entire household getting a NASTY sickness that seems to be going around these days (everyone at the Peters Christmas got it). It was miserable. Thank goodness I got it worse that any of my boys (Evan included). I would have hated if any of them had it near as badly. That put me down for the count for at least two full days and I get a little behind in my class load..but things are looking UP and I finally feel normal again! I am looking forward to this semester for sure! I pray for patience and understanding for my boys daily, as I am always nose-to-books while in school! They seem to be handling my school just fine. I am glad they have eachother. It is so much fun watching them interact...best buds (most of the time ;))

a few projects....

2011-07-30T09:10:00.000-07:00

a FUN wreathe...I will be making more :)

Lindsay came down and spent the day with me and the boys (thanks linds!) and we made fun hair things...she made a cute felt ring with a button on it too!

Necklace- I have seen these all over Etsy and have been wanting to make one so badly. I love orange...so wha la! I will be making more of these too! (can't wait for it to be a little cooler/less humid so I can wear one)

My first attempt at making one of these...it was given to Caroline Louise...Hope she likes it one day :)

Hopefully I will have more projects to post soon...

1) cabinet

2) blackboard

3) who knows.......

2011-07-30T06:31:00.000-07:00

Sweet Caroline's hospital gift

just another mess of R's

He likes to eat raw oatmeal...it always ends in him sweeping the floor for me :)

SALE FINDS!

a GREAT freebie

now housed above the book shelf in the play room

Photo shoot with my boys:)

Lately we have been in the house most of the day and swim in the kiddy pool in the mornings and evenings. It is kind of hot for C *but mostly too hot for me* to enjoy too much time outside. We go on walks most mornings and evenings....the boys LOVE their walks..esp if the morning walk ends at the park just down the road :) I have thrown out about 4 small pots of plants and 2 large pots. I got sick of watering them to no avail! They were dying...now that I think of it..they may have been OVER watered! I look at the beautiful overflowing pots as I drive and can't help but be a tinge jealous at the green thumbs everybody else has but me! Maybe next year (i tell myself this every year)

The summer has been awesome so far! We have not been doing much, but I am enjoying my time with my little family so much. A lot has been happening this month alone! Miss Caroline was born to dear Jake and Lisa (what a cutie!!), C is "army crawling" all over the place, R has been training C all kinds of wrestling moves, and i have attended my very first school sale!

My H.S. alma mater was torn down this month, but not before I got to get my hands on a few things! It was SO MUCH FUN to bid...what an adrenaline rush...I could turn out to be an auction junkie!...so I have to limit the amount of auctions I attend :) Among the things I bought are slate chalkboards($n/a), conference table ($1), stool, clock, old intercom speakers, books, cabinet ($5), map, 8ft folding table, cabinet doors (was too carried away with the nostalgia and bought the silly things:)), lots of old napkin holders (got the whole box but only wanted one!),lockers (thanks, Dad!), and another nice table (gave to Auntie for sewing).....it was FUN!!! I can't wait to hang my blackboard. OH THE BLACKBOARDS...they were SO heavy! Poor E and my Dad...they had to carry the things from the THIRD (yes, third) floor UGH!! i had no clue

those things were so much work...and a pain once you get so many carried and loaded, hauled and unloaded! I owe my hubby and Daddy BIGTIME!

I am living it up these next few weeks before I start school again. I went to turn in all my health requirements to the nursing dept at school last week and thought I would take a stroll through the bookstore to see what books i was going to need...WOW...i need like 9 books! Granted, I will be using some of them more than one or two semesters, but still! I am more nervous now that I know how many books we are going to be learning from! So scared for tests already..which books are we going to be tested from....or will they even tell us?! Oh goodness...at least I have a few more weeks to fill with any social life I may have and family togetherness! These will be the last weeks until the second week of December I will have no school stress to worry about!

It is crazy how fast the littles are growing up! I can't believe R is talking (and walking around singing with his play guitar in hand) and C is moving and eating food! I washed and put away all the "baby toys", like the playmat and swing...bittersweet:)

First meal as a BIG BOY :)

Mom and Linds went to visit Britt and Ali this week. I wanted to go so badly! They keep texting and calling me to keep me in the loop as much as possible. It is so fun to see the pics they are taking. I know they are having a wonderful time. After CO they head out to WA to visit my mom's family and do some more sight seeing and exploring/hiking in Victoria,Canada, seattle, sequim and port angeles! My Aunt A just had sweet baby #7, Lucy, and she is so cute! I wish I could be there with mom and linds to help pinch those sweet baby cheeks :) I know Ali is loving having them there! We miss you, Ali and Britt!

2011-06-24T11:45:00.001-07:00

I wish I was better at incorporating all the pictures into my posts! It gets so frustrating that I cannot get the pictures where I want them :).....

Anyway, I had an idea of what I wanted to say to everyone before we started the baby shower for Baby FOrsythe, but when it came time for me to greet everyone and say thank you for coming...i got choked up and a little teary-eyed so I just decided to keep everything SHORT...and sing "Jesus loves Me" asap!

I had a blast last night at the shower, but was unable to see anything be opened,so I HAD to go to Lisa's for coffee this morning. EVERYTHING IS SO CUTE! It was so much fun to see everyone's creativity in each gift! Baby got some ADORABLE things! I wanted to smuggle a few things out the door when I left JUST IN CASE I have a girl one day! tee hee. I didn't though...I will enjoy seeing little Baby grow up and get the chance to use all the fun items! HOWEVER, I am glad that I don't have to dress a little girl...so many options! (not to mention the fact that I would go broke if I had a girl).

Lisa and Jake,

You and your little one are so dear to our hearts and are so very loved! Best of all....she is almost here!

bits and pieces

2011-06-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

yay for baby showers! I just love to plan little parties and such, especially for dear friends such as Lisa! Her little princess is just weeks away from her debut and we got the privilege to shower her {mommy} with all things "girl"! It was so much fun to prepare for the much anticipated affair~

Boy or scary monster?.......Rider helped make cake pops :)

Here are a few pictures of the shower....Thanks to all who helped bring this all together!

the past months in pictures......

2011-05-31T05:16:00.000-07:00

2011-04-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

As I write this post I realize that I have not taken pictures lately! Isn't it funny how you just take picture after picture with only one child...and by the time the second one comes around you get so busy and don't even know where the camera is! We recently got new appliances and Rider is fully reaping the benefits! He has a FORT! (aka dishwasher box) He has been dragging toys and snacks inside and wants to watch "choo chooos?" on the laptop in there...so funny!

Rider has been on a huge Train kick lately :) His SECOND birthday is quickly approaching and we are so excited! I am thinking of different cake shapes I can make. I think we need to do a trial run first though :)...i just simply don't trust myself with cake shaped cake pans (i have never done this before :)) I went on a walk with the boys the other day and ended up at the park. Rider had a blast, and so did I as I watched him climb everywhere and go down the slide all by himself! My boy is getting so big! As I sat there I realized it is the BEST place to have Rider's birthday party! YAY! Love summer birthdays :) It made me think....What are we going to do in DECEMBER?! -WAY too early to think about such things!...I still have a whole semester of school to get through!

We have officially found ourselves a babysitter for the school semester! I am so glad that she is someone I know and can trust with the littles :) It is a huge weight off my shoulders...now I can breathe this summer-well as I strike all the other things on my list OFF!

I attended a True Woman Conference at our church last weekend. It was not an actual conference...it was a great weekend. We watched videos of speeches given by John Piper, Nancy Lee Demoss, Janet Parcell , and Johnny Tada (note* don't know how to spell ANY of those names:))..it was a wonderful weekend filled with love and special time with "sisters"!

I will post a few pictures a little later on...I have yet to upload them to the computer! Love to you all on this WINDY WINDY Wednesday!

pink is on the brain

2011-04-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't posted anything new in a little while. Partly due to the fact that all that I have been working on lately is TOP SECRET! Well, not that secret...just don't want my dear Lisa to know all the details to her baby shower. simply put....I HAVE PINK ON MY BRAIN with all the girlies being born this year! I am glad to have a reason to buy pink and finally gift away my "girl stash".

While preparing for a baby shower I am attempting to organize my thoughts and plans enough to get shots for the littles, ready-ing myself for school, starting to look for a babysitter for the school season, helping my sweet mom get things in order for my little sister's grad party weekend, and Rider's SECOND birthday! Oh my, I can't believe he is going to be 2! I feel as if Rider should still be Cutler's age! (WOW.. I have two littles?) My wonderful Grandparents are visiting us for a few weeks over the end of May and beginning of June. I am so excited to see them again...and show off their second little great-grandchild! (but don't call grandma, GREAT grandma...she is GG BONNIE!) It will be so much fun for Rider to have his great grandparents here for his second birthday party too :)

I am looking forward to attending a little get together to shower sweet Kate with little PINK things for her baby no. 2! The little lady doesn't want to wear her brother's blues! I am helping with this little party too... I just can't keep my fingers out of the fun of planning such things! Sorry, Laura! I love my lady friends and can't wait to share some pictures with you all soon!

latest creations

2011-03-15T03:45:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to do these few projects for a long while now. Sometimes it just takes me getting started that takes a while, but once I do start, I can't stop :) Here are a few of the things I finished up last evening. I wanted to wait and post the pictures till after I gave them as gifts, but I couldn't wait to see what everyone thought...I still have a few more things up my sleeve and can't wait to start on them...they will be so fun to give away! For now, this is what I have.

This is a blanket I made out of really comfy fabric for a dear friend's baby girl. Rider wanted to cuddle up to it....so hopefully baby girl does too :)

This is a teething necklace I left the ribbon long so that it can be cut to size some moms like long necklaces and some like short ones, either way babies chew chew chew and with these....it's okay!

This is a photo of a few of the teething necklaces together. There are a lot more I want to make and I can't wait to see how they turn out. I will definitely make myself one or three!

a glimpse into the past few weeks

2011-03-08T06:51:00.000-08:00

Well. My littles are growing so fast! I can't believe that Cutler is almost three months already. Rider is learning to talk more and more every day! I love to hear him jabber. He loves to walk around and sing while playing his "guitar" (he got a toy guitar that sings for Christmas). I learned the other day that I will be starting school on August 30, 2011. I am so excited to get back into the whole school routine! However, it will sad to have to leave BOTH boys to go to school. School is stressful alone....add kiddos, hubby, and study time...it gets downright CRAZY. I welcome it though because school gives me time to be ..just me. It kind of gives me a sense of accomplishment. I totally realize that it is quite the accomplishment to be a good mother..I thoroughly enjoy being a mother. It is just that I set out to become a nurse a long time ago and stopped short. I only took a few classes. I was not very responsible....it gave me a sense of failure in a way...thinking I would never finish this "project" in my like. I like to think that I never quit something I start....and i did...so here I am with my Husbands blessing and encouragement each step of the way I am finishing school..I am so looking forward to being a nurse one day.

I went to visit my mom and dad while Evan was away on business. It was so much fun. However, it is a lot of work with two littles with me. It isn't so much the packing, loading, unloading, setting up the pak n play, settling in...and then doing it all over again after the weekend, but also the fact that you have keep up on the discipline, worry about sleep time, naptime, and monitoring all the candy and cookies given to the toddler by the grandparents! Sometimes, much to my Dad's dismay, I have to rein in the Grandparents who try to win the hearts of their grandchildren through their tummies! HA! I love them just the same though!

mom and Dad are remodling the downstairs bedroom. It used to be my Grandparents' room when they lived there. The Drywall needed completely replaced and as Dad began ripping it out...we found this! It is original to the house...I adore it!! They are going to have it "re-puddied" (not sure what it is called)...I am so excited that it is going to be exposed!! I am jealous too I just think it is so beautiful. I will keep you updated on this project :)
My littlest boy...is getting so big! I can't believe he is about three months already!!

We have a little tradition on Sunday evenings. We make PIZZA! Rider likes to watch ..and he loves CHEESE! can you tell?

I simply CANNOT believe this flower is still living!.........When the boys and I went to watch Lindsay's last home game we stopped and got her this beautiful orchid. It was senior night so Mom and Dad and the boys and I got her this and some balloons. Rider walked out onto the court with Dad and gave her the balloons (Dad gave her the flower)...it was so cute! He was smiling the whole time! It melted all our hearts as well!

While I was alone I got bored and cleaned up the house and started rooting through the upstairs storage room...I came across this!!! Oh the joy! While you are thinking "why in the world is this girl so excited about...milk?" Well, this particular milk carton holds a very special place in my heart...and ALL my cousins and quite possibly my Dad and Uncles for it holds the MARBLES inside! These marbles were a keystone to the whole "visiting Grandma Mildred" experience. These were the first things pulled out of the toy closet!

One day a few weeks ago I got to go with a dear friend to be with another dear friend. I have not seen her in a very long time! Like a year! It was such a fun day! It is amazing what all happens in just a few short years! For instance....ALL THE KIDS happened! It is truly sad that we miss out on each other when distance separates us!

Mom and I went shopping on Friday night after visiting Dad for a while at the fire station. She bought this cute car for Rider. I cannot believe how well BOTH boys did...we were gone about all afternoon!

This was soooo funny! Dad put his helmet on Rider. Rider's head slowly tipped to one side and he spun in a slow circle until he was relieved by Dad taking off the helmet (it was a little heavy!)

Rider loves the firetrucks. He wants someone else in there with him though (I think they just seem too big to be in them alone :))
Lindsay came for the weekend a few weeks ago. It is always fun to have visitors, especially when said visitors are SISTERS!!! She was such a big help. She entertained Rider.

Rider loves to lay on the floor with his little brother. This morning he was eating his morning snack with cutler iin the living room (he is NOT allowed out of the kitchen with food, but this was so sweet I couldn't get him in trouble!)

2011-01-26T10:48:00.000-08:00

To put it short and sweet. Today I am reminded of the children's book "Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day".

As I sit here with my 20 month old (i think he is 20 months) I have decided to pour out on my poor followers of MY terrible horrible no good very bad day. It all started with a tired momma getting up with her one month old. Feed, Roooock pat roooock pat, lay him down, pat pat pat....and begin again (bc his tummy is just NOT settling). Meanwhile across the hall another little man bounces around in his crib jabbering. I think to myself "please fall back asleep: all the while knowing this will not happen! Hubby comes bounding up the stairs happy to get the eldest out of his crib before he leaves for work. UGH....leave me with two wide awake boys when all I want to do is lie back down for another hour (at least).

Instead I finish with baby, come downstairs to see that toddler is having a ball in the cereal bowl that his papa left on the table for him to play in the leftover milk. "O JOY"...clean wipe clean wipe. Fix todder his own cereal while running back and forth from kitchen to family room to pull rider off of cutler (toddler is bound to break the swing one of these days). Finally get toddler in one spot as he eats his oatmeal. I make our bed and start a load of laundry. Check on toddler to see if he is finished and find oatmeal spread all over the highchair tray and toddler holding his bowl upside down in one hand and spoon in the other. Clean up mess. Change diaper while trying to hold him down. Get him dressed. Unload dishwasher. Put the cereal bag BACK into the wastecan that toddler pulled out. and again...and again (this time WITH spankin'). Talk to mom kim on the phone (thank goodness for moms' calls sometimes, can i get an AMEN?)

and the day goes on and on....feed baby while toddler cries and carries on bc he wants to hold him....roooock pat roooock pat, burp....let toddler hold baby, read stories to both (melts momma's heart!)....

Toddler folding each playing card (from the deck in the china cupboard) in half and then in half again ( at least this is occupying him and keeping him OUT of his brother's swing)....whine whine whine..snack time i guess.....whine, more snack......(no wonder this kid is so chubby)

on and on till lunch and NAP TIME finally!!! Maybe this momma can get a little shut eye too! get toddler in bed, up awakes baby..feed rooock pat roooock pat....BURRRRP.. (thank you LORD for helping him burp better this time.) change diaper rock to sleep...rock to sleep...rock to sleep....FInally asleep...check email ( I Have to bc I am waiting for an important one)....clean up kitchen a bit and TRY to figure out what to have for dinner...UP awakes toddler! (sigh, tear, up the stairs i march

crying and crying toddler stands in his crib wanting to rock....i rock him. Come downstairs and realize I am hungry... make a PBJ sandwich...crying toddler wants to share...WAIT! He wants to hold the sandwich and sit AT the table with the WHOLE (two halves) of the sandwich...I give up..you can HAVE the sandwich...i run to my lap top to unload on you all!

Ever just have one of those days where you just about go the ENTIRE day gritting your teeth and finally realize you are doing so only bc you have a headache? (from gritting your teeth)....

....and now, at 2:15 pm I have no clue what to fix for supper and just want to forget the whole rest of my day...just go to sleep and let everyone fend for themselves...I'm taking a SICK DAY!

In comes my toddler and gives me kisses for no reason.....GOD just knows what this frustrated momma needs! O how the sweetest, littlest things become answers to quiet prayers and seem to often come via toddlers! and how quickly we get over the annoyances of our children and love them just the same...AND MORE!.....we realize the GREAT love our Father has for us...it is simply AMAZING!!!

....I still have no clue what to make for supper, but am rejuvinated and destined to enjoy the rest of my day....all from a sweet toddler's smooch (heaven-sent)....Thank you LORD for your love, support, and cheering on!

(run and get toddler out from under the sink)

2011-01-15T10:12:00.000-08:00

FOUR weeks!!

How do they know they don't like crusts?.....He has eaten JUST the inside of his sandwiches for weeks now..so funny!

Loves to help his momma!

LOVES his brother (let's hope this keeps up for...oh..the rest of their lives!)

checking on his Little Brother:)

Evan has been gong to "Steve the Barber" since he was a tiny one! We are continuing the tradition today! Rider did very well! He even got a sucker....here are a few pics.....

The beginning!...He did great as time went on :)

The "liitle man" chair!

the old cash register!

(I had to include this bc I love all things old!)

End product and picture of the newly cut hair on the man and little man!

Thought I would post a few pictures from Christmas!! We had a ball watching Rider open his gifts. Greg and Stacey and Company were here as well and so we spend almost every day over at my in-laws! It was fun to cuddle Cutler too...we are truly blessed with wonderful family and friends!

Rider got these cool glasses in his stocking! (Grammy was pleased too looks like!)

It was so funny....Rider got sick of the noise and people I think..so off he went back the hall and into the dark playroom for some peace and quiet :)

Rider thinks he can put his PJs on by himself...looks like he has a few things to learn!

Gift #1 with our little family! After this he was done for a while...just wanted to play with this playdough :)

eventually he got to his bus...so fun!

2010-12-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

Rider likes to have his snacks at the table :)

Cutler's first shower!

I said earlier that I included pics....I forgot...so here you go!

...Sorry for the order! I am still trying to figure out how to upload photos the right way!!

Rider loves holding his brother!

Rider watching Cutler get his FIRST shower

Evan and his second little boy!

Sweet friends came to visit!

the four of us!

Cutler Storm

A very happy mama...with another super sweet baby boy!

2010-12-28T08:45:00.000-08:00

Well, I am so pleased to say that Cutler Storm made his arrival!...and EARLY! I was so impressed because that meant that we got to share Christmas with the Robbins family. Greg and Stacy and CO are out here for ten days...thoroughly enjoy the time we get to share with the entire family :).

The BEST Christmas gift was when we were visited by dear dear friends who upon entering the door...had HUGE smiles and arms raised high..."WE'RE PREGNANT!!!!!" I wanted to cry right then and there but was just too stunned...and I was trying to put things together in my mind of the last few weeks (looking for any clues they gave to us). It was so cool. I sstill haven't told you yet<>

Cutler's delivery was 4 hours start to finish! SO FAST! I wasn't even sure that I was having contractions because they were a lot different. We arrived at the hospital at 10:44 and he was born at 11:51 ....7 pounds on the dot and 19 inches long...wow....it still feels weird that he is here! Things are so much different with two kiddos! It definitely is taking time for Rider to adjust to the new "norm". We feel so blessed to have two healthy boys...we love them oh so much...but I am not enjoying the cabin fever!! I will get out one of these days...preferably with just one child too! I am including a few pics from the hospital and around the house. I hope you all enjoyed family and friends this Christmas season!

2010-12-07T10:39:00.000-08:00

O boy, I just really don't like taking my little guy in for his shots. This time always seems to come around too fast. I try to put it off as long as I can. Last week's shots were about two weeks later than they were supposed to be! I turned down the flu shot again....I get a dirty look every time they ask and I say no. I have mixed feelings about them still. I know that one of these days (when I become a nurse) I will have to have one myself, but still not sure what the rest of the family will do. The up side of shots for Rider is that he gets a huge tootsie pop each time. He rather enjoys this! It breaks a mother's heart though...esp when walking up to the building and then sitting in the waiting room with anxiousness in my heart. I am so glad when it is all over. Well, we are done with shots until the sixth of January (ugh).

This is my last week of school till the Fall of 2010, and possibly till Spring of 2012! AND, it will soon be BABY TIME in this house! I am hoping I don't go until a day after Christmas because I would love to spend time with Evan's brother and sister in law before being confined to the house! However, I am ready to meet this little guy face to face and be able to move without the lack of breath....so going early would be nice too, HA! It is funny to see how behind I am in my "readiness" for this baby than I was with Rider. I don't have his room ready and am really lacking creativity this time around! Oh well, as long as he has a place to sleep and has food in his tummy and lots of love...I am sure he will be fine with the fact that his room is TAN and boring! hahahha.

This weekend is my family Christmas and I am so looking forward to time with family, and being away for the weekend. Sometimes I just need to get out of the house (this should be interesting once baby comes, eh?) Plus, time with family is so precious to me! I love to give gifts to family and friends as well, so I am really looking forward to Sunday morning. saturday night we are going bowling and ordering pizza to eat while we bowl. We started this tradition last year. We had such a blast together and with no mess to clean up, mom and I thought it was THE BEST option! We had many laughs and memories made and are so excited to continue the tradition this year. We are expecting to have a few new members at out party this year. Lindsay's BF, Mathew will be joining us as well as Shane's GF, Katelyn. Katelyn is still pretty new to the scene, so it should be fun to get to know her. I am so looking forward to watching Rider open gifts this year! Evan and I didn't get him very many things, because the Grandparents usually take care of that for us without being asked! Plus, I would rather not have to weed through a million toys every time I put them away or walk through the play room! For goodness sakes, the kid plays with the toaster and tupperware more than anything else anyway! LOL.....

We officially have no pacis (except at naptime) in Rider's mouth. Figured it was about time to get rid of it before baby...maybe we won't use pacis with this next little guy...we will see. It hasn't been too bad getting Rider to quit using them throughout the day. They are still useful at naptime though...I figure I am fine with that for a while.

Rider is such an entertainer. He loves to make people laugh. He scrunches his whole face up and barely sees out of his eyes, shows his teeth and laughs once he knows he has succeeded in making us laugh! Too cute! We thoroughly enjoy Rider's presence in our lives and thank our Jesus each day for every smile, tear, word, nonword, and giggle we experience with Rider. We cannot wait to see how Rider interacts with his little brother! We will keep you posted on the progress (so far I-my body- has not made any progress).......

2010-10-27T06:19:00.001-07:00

above: Rider and Evan after the tour de donut bike ride.....below:Rider likes to sit in his rocking chair!
the next pictures are taken by Kimberly Sink Photography...she is amazing!

the pictures above were taken in the Spring (6 weeks pregnant)

So, it has been quite a while since my last post...oops! A LOT has happened. I took a few classes at school this summer and am on my way to finishing up my Fall semester classes. In the meantime, we have been expecting boy #2!! We are thrilled to be having another boy, but would be happy either way! We have his name picked out, but keep changing our minds on the middle name. He is due on Christmas Eve, but we all know what due dates mean.... It has been a good pregnancy. I have been a little more comfortable this time around...maybe due to the less weight gain...I was quite large with Rider...and will be large this time too, but maybe not AS large! hahaha. I felt terrible nausea for about 9 weeks or so again. It was a lot harder with one child to entertain and take care of. You have to be up and around all day whether you feel bad or not. With Rider's pregnancy, I was able to just lie around all day.

School has been busy. Papers, speeches, homework, tests! It will be a nice break over the next six months....time to be with Baby Boy and get somewhat into a routine! I will find out in March when I get to start the nursing program. It could be Fall of 2011 or Spring of 2012. So, I could possibly have a year at home. I am hoping to go back in the Fall though, I will be that much further ahead. Either way, I will have a LOT of information to go back over. I find myself having already forgotten information! UGH!

Rider is growing up so fast. I can't believe he is 18 months already. I was just looking back over his baby pictures. Seems like yesterday I held him for the first time. It is really a joy to have him around! He is always bringing laughter, joy, and love to our lives....and occasionally stress :) Should be interesting having two little ones around here!

We went to WA this past summer for my grandparents' 50th anniversary. The entire family went to the coast for a long weekend. It was so much fun to be with everyone and the coast was just beautiful..Evan couldn't go, so just Rider and I went. Rider did really well, but got an ear infection toward the end of the trip. I waited till we got home to go to the doctor though. It was a pretty bad one, and I thought it was before I went in. He did well on the way home for being so miserable though! Poor baby! What a trooper.

Well, off to write yet, another paper for class. Hope this finds you all well! I included a few recent pictures here right quick for you all. Happy Thanksgiving! Hope to post some pics of the new little guy!

LOVE.....

2010-05-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

Rider enjoys getting into things! lol

I just love baby feet!

He has EIGHT teeth already!!

MY MY, where do I start? Rider will one in just a few short weeks. I can't believe how fast this past year flew. I have so enjoyed the time with our little son. He is crawling so quickly (has been crawling for a little over a month now). He likes to pull himself up on things. He is not quite standing though. I have yet to schedule his one year appointment with the doctor. Rider has been sucha good boy. He is content and happy most of the time and is most talkative in the morning. Heis his momma's son! He likes to be in the room where everyone else is, loves drawers, walks, dogs,and yogart! I look forward to seeing him play with his cousins this summer! Thomas and ANgie and their boys moved to Ohio. They arrived at their house around 2:00 yesterday (May 3rd). We are happy to have more playmates for Rider! Evan and Rider and I all went over to Thomas's to say hello. Poor Thomas and Ang hadn't eaten yet bc they were unpacking the camper and truck, giving the boys baths, and numerous other things. I am sure it will be more fun for them to hang out when all the work is finished. I feel sad that they had to leave friends and family behind in CA, but we are glad to have them here with us! Greg and Stacy and Co. plan to come here to Ohio in the end of May. They will happen to be here over Rider's birthday! We are thrilled to have all of our family together for Rider's first birthday party!! I have been continuing to stay busy with school. I have finals this week and next. Then, I am off until summer classes start on June 20. Rider and I are traveling with my sister, Ali and her hubby, Britton to WA to celebrate my Grandparents' 50th wedding anniversary! Actually, their 50th anniversary was last year, but we could all get out there this year! So, this trip has been planned for quite some time now! We are very excited to see all the cousins! I am praying for safe travels and a happy liitle boy on the plane! We plan to be on the coast (I forget where) for a long weekend in a big house with the entire family! This should be fun...and interesting! A week vacation with the ones you love...We SO WISH Evan could go with us though! So,with all the studying, tests, increased family time, flower beds to work in, and birthday party planning, I am going tobe quite busy in the month of May! I pray everyone has a wonderful Spring. Happy planting and barbeque-ing!

love to you all

pics of winter '09-'10

2010-01-15T12:21:00.001-08:00

My Mom and I went shopping and while we were out we came across this chair....I had to get Rider in it for a quick pic! He loved as you can see.

Rider watching us all bowl!

Mom, Me and Rider, and my youngest sister, Lindsay at the bball game.

We went bowling over our Christmas weekend with my family! It was a blast.....start of a tradition?...we shall see!

2010-01-15T11:53:00.000-08:00

Winter has been nice. It feels better to stay home in my warm cozy house with my little man than all by myself...like last year at this time! Christmas was so special once again this year. It is so much fun to watch our little one open gifts, although, next year will be even more fun because Rider will actually know what he is doing! He mainly was just fascinated with the noise of the wrapping paper. We were not oo busy this Christmas. My family got together the weekend of the 19th to celebrate Christmas. A few things that I got to open were a digital photo frame, stainless steel/oven-safe skillet, and a neat nativity scene! We had a great time at Mom and Dad's. Rider did really well too...that is always nice eh?! We also got the chance to see Lindsay's friend Matt play in his bball game. It was nice to go back to the fieldhouse that I played bball in! A huge thanks to Mom and Dad for a wonderful weekend full of fun and laughter! We love you so much and will always appreciate the time we get to spend with you!

On Christmas day we were at Mom and Dad Robbins' house. Grandma Clara and Grandpa Lawrence, Aunt Linda, Van and Carol, and Grandma Graham (Dad Robbins Mom) were all there to share in the day's festivities with us! I just love getting together with family! There is just nothing that quite compares to family time!! Van brought the Wii that they got for Christmas.We played bowling and tennis for a few hours! I really enjoy that Wii! Later on Roger and Gail Gessner stopped by to say hello to Grandma Graham. Gail is Dad Robbins' Aunt...but not much age difference....you would think they were cousins. In the evening then, we opened gifts. I got a coffee press! I had wanted one for quite a while! I also got a new set of knives..and I use them quite a bit. The food was just delicious...I wouldn't really expect any different..Mom Robbins can really cook...just ask Evan! hahahaha. It was a wonderful day

I went shopping the day after Christmas with Mom Karen hoping to get a few great deal!....no such luck really...I got a few things of ribbon for next year though. It was a fun day together though! Over New years Eve we wen to la fiesta and met Jake and Lisa there...yummmmmy food. I could eat there every day! Rider was tired by the time we left so we just came home and went to bed early...not much of a NYE eh? We had fun with friends though.

Among the Holidays, Tamara, my cousin and best friend had baby #2, jack oliver on the 15th of Dec. Betsy, another best friend told me that she and her husband of two months, are expecting baby #1!! So exciting. Friends of ours Brent and Laura had baby #1 Deacon Maxwell just yesterday! Friends are having babies...and I love it! Can't wait till the weather gets nicer outside so we can get out for some playdates at the park! I also will be starting school next week. I am attending Edison Community College in Piqua for a nursing degree (RN). I want to work in Labor and Delivery...so far! I am excited yet nervous! I hope all goes well at home with Evan and Rider while I am at school. I am taking night classes as much as I can. Once the actual nursing classes begin though, I will have to go during the day as that is the only time that they are available. I will keep you all up to date on how things go. Prayers for strength and patience are appreciated! It will be a long road ahead, but I know that I will be grateful when I am finished! I plan on graduating in three years....depending on if God blesses us with another child in that time...it could take closer to four years as I would take off a semester or two to care for the new little one! I pray every one is having a blessed winter season full of love, laughter, and friendship! Love to you all!

2009-10-27T12:06:00.000-07:00

WOW! It has been way too long since my last post. I can't believe it has been five months since Rider first met his mom and dad! We are absolutely loving being parents! Rider is getting big so fast! I took a few pics for his 5-6 months....I never got to his 3 month pics though...Time just flies by. October has been busy. Two of my friends get married....the first, I was Betsy's matron of honor and I get to attend my friend Randi's wedding. I really enjoyed being a part of Betsy's wedding but it is always nice to just relax and enjoy a wedding too! Evan leaves for Canada Sunday morning..so sad to miss him all week..but it will give Rider and I time to be with Grandma Kim and Grandpa Mike (my mom and dad). Not sure when we will be getting up there. Not much has been going on around here....Rider talks and talks..love it though! I am sure one of these days I will want him to be quiet :) We are all moved in to the house now...just trying to make it a home now. I am having a lot of fun...I had all the Peters ladies over last week...It was so much fun. We hadn't seen each other for a long time so it was nice to catch up finally! I always have a great time with family. Hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful FALL weather!..gotta go for now...Rider wants someone to talk to!

Announcing...... RIDER EVAN!

2009-06-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

Well, we are finally the happy parents of a sweet baby boy, Rider Evan. Everything went very well...8 1/2 hrs of labor seemed to fly by. We are so in love with this little guy. God has truly blessed us with such a cute miracle! He has been such a good baby too! He is content and really likes his swing...Ithink he likes a little background noise to!...He likes to hear voices and music...just like Mommy;)

It is crazy to think it has been a week that we have been home! I am kind of ready to get out of the house again...I keep forgetting that it is summer! I have been in a cool apartment for a week. We did go over to Evan's parents' house for pizza and a movie last week though! You know, as much as I want to get out, I have to admit I am a little nervous about it bc I start thinking about....what if i need to feed him..or he starts screaming in the store (trust me- he is a screamer before a cryer!)...etc etc..:). I suppose I will have to make short quick trips for a while!...Which is my "norm" anyways!

Well, here are a few pictures of our little man....

a few randoms throughout the winter

2009-02-28T17:40:00.000-08:00

belly shot!

me and my belly

I made mochas one day while Ali was here...we enjoy our coffee drinks!

Tamara and I at the New Year's Eve celebrations!

A shot on the beach of St Thomas...it was splendid!

WINTER (well more or less)

2009-02-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

Well, it has definately been quite a while since I have last written here! I feel like there has not been much going on...but I like to hear about everyone else's nothings so I thought that I might as well put down a few of my own!.LOL

Well. We are all moved into the apartment here in Covington. I think I really kind of like it here now. It took a little getting used to, but I like the coziness of it! We have room for Baby Boy..which is what we are calling him until we tell everyone his name...you will know as soon as we welcome him face to face!...we are so excited to meet him! We just agreed on a name a few weeks ago...we didn't even discuss it... Evan said the name and I totally fell i love with it...so that was easy! We had been discussing names for a long time and could never agree totally...so it is nice to both be into ONE name! It will be so much fun to introduce him to all of our family and friends! It is hard to believe that we only have 11 weeks left! It helps to be able to have a few things to think about before he arrives....Ali's birhtday is coming up this weekend, Landon and Kaite's baby boy will be here at the end of March, Lindsay's birthday is in April, Katie and I are having our baby showers together sometime in the middle or end of April, Ali is having a small baby shower for me up in Elida in April, I am thinking up ideas on Betsy's bridal shower for late this summer....( Betsy is my BESTY since M.S.)...I like to start thinking about things early so that I am not rushing at the end to get things ready!...Plus, I looove thinking up different things to do for showers and girls days out! So, I am so pleased I get to host a shower for such a great person in my life...hard to believe I will have a little guy with me by then! WOW!

So, I have things coming up that I am excited for! All in the weeks before our little man arrives! I am glad to have things going on to pass the time while we are waiting! We are still in search of a house, but there doesn't seem to be much out there close to what we are looking for in terms of features and prices! So, for now we are happy where we are. It will be nice to be here a while bc we won't have any maintence...yard work, planting, mulching, etc...as much as I enjoy being outside and doing that stuff...it will be nice to not feel like I HAVE TO GET TO it...esp with the new little guy! I can relax in sunshine instead!

I have painted the baby room! I am so pleased that we were allowed to paint it! It is grey...exactly what i wanted! I got the "okay" one hour and had the paint home in the next! I painted the next day...that is just how I work...once I get something in my head...I have to get it done...it is all I think about until it is completed! I looooove having projects! I wish I had more to do! hahha...I am sure I won't be saying that in the months to come! haha.

Well, the cruise was wonderful! We really had a great time with Grant and Colista...they are a lot of fun and we soaked up as much sun as we could. Of course, you would never think I got any sun just a few months ago...actually, any color I did get, was faded out just a few short weeks later!..boooo. I am sad that we will not be planning another one for a long time...but that is something we can do later...I would enjoy being able to visit other places as a family...maybe with friends....

I am so ready for this winter season to be over..BRING ON THE SUNSHINE! I get tired of being cooped up inside due to the low temp.! I am so ready to be with friends again...BBQs, poolside, picnics, etc....I feel like we don't get together during winter...it is just too bad! Maybe it is bc it gets dark so early and it is cold, andwe would al rather be snuggled up to our husbands instead of stepping foot out side just to sit ina freezing cold car!...lol...or maybe we are just getting older and it seems like too much work! lol!

Well, until I either SEE you, TALK to you, or write another post, I hope God blesses your days and keeps you safe! Much love....

FALL UPDATE!

2008-11-07T07:26:00.000-08:00

Well, first I have to apologize for it taking so long since my last post. I have decided that I am just going to have to post seasonally! hahaha.

Anyway, a lot has been going on. We have sold our house and recently moved into an apartment. We are in the same town, Covington, but have downsized! It is actually kind of fun! It is sort of an adventure. I like it...for a little while anyway! So, between moving and attending/hosting showers for Ali, and of course Ali and Britton's wedding, we have been quite busy! We also went to Cleveland for Evan's work the week before Ali's wedding and the week of the personal shower I was hosting for Ali......and we had to move eveything out of the house by Friday before Ali's wedding! WOW! What a whirlwind of a month;)

Also, amongst all of that hoopla....we found out that we are going to be new parents in MAy!!!! We are so excited.... and now have a lot more to look forward to as the time is nearing that we go on vaction (DEC)....now we will realy have to enjoy it bc we obviously won't be cruising again for a very long time!lol. We have heard the heartbeat and now get to look forward to seeing it on the monitor in Dec before the cruise! That should be a lot of fun!!

Now things are beginning to wind down a little and I can make this apartment a little more..."US"...although there si only so much you can do with WHITE walls. I take that back...they are dirty white walls....haha.....not funny.

Now starts the sewing frenzy so I will have dresses to wear as I get HUGE...o the joy! (sarcastic obv!)It will be a lot of fun to read about all the stages of grotwth of the baby! It is such a little miracle! We are truly blessed.....along with all the other mommies and soon-to-be mommies!

I hope this finds you all well!! Have a fun-filled Thanksgiving holiday!

It's been a while!

2008-08-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

Hello all! It has been so long since I have last posted anything that is going on in my life! Well, I have been busy putting away food for the winter....yes, much like a squirrel! I have tons of HOT salsa, green beans, plenty of corn, and applesauce! It has been fun, but a lot of work. It is always much more fun when we can do things like that together with someone else. As you know me....I have to have someone to chat with while I am working! I finally and getting the chance to hang out with my dearest..Tamara and Reed for the day tomorrow. We are meeting up with Lisa and eating a late lunch...yay!

I am also going to be the proud Aunt of new TWINS in March!! Thomas and Angie are having fraternal twins...not sure on the sexes yet....I am so excited to go out to CA to help her...Owen will be ONE on Saturday already..wow how time flies. I wish I could see him!

Not much is coming up, except I am going to Florida to see my best friend betsy! Then, in December we head out on a cruise....looking forward to spending time with my husband and friends Grant and COlista! It should be a great time.

I am now the leader of the leader of the senior committee of the Covington Outreach Association....I plan outings for seniors and coordinate help days for volunteers to help out the seniors here in covington with whatnots...it has been interesting, to say the least. It is a blast though and I enjoy getting to know the older people around me! I have also been busy with other aspects/programs with in the COA. We just finished the BACK 2 SCHOOL program....it is amazing how many people right within our little community need help...whether it be through our food pantry, school supplies and fees, and Christmas. We just don't see that in our day to day lives and kind of forget that other people need us to help them or lift them up! I love to be involved in the COA....even if it is tiring from time to time. I think it is nice to have a ministry like this in Covington! So, you could pray for all the people around you as well, that GOD would supply their needs!

Hope you have a great day!!!!

I am posting a few pictures that I have taken recently.....doing corn @ A. Kris' and a few random pictures.......enjoy

2008-06-10T18:26:00.001-07:00

So, my WA trip was nice! We kept very very busy...visiting Seattle,Victoria, Port Angeles, and Sequim. It was so nice to visit my grandparents and their new house! Lindsay and I had a ton of fun staying overnight at my Uncle Kenton and Aunt Alyssa's house with their five kids. The new little girl arrives in just a few more weeks. I had my first crumpet with tea in Seattle. SOOO good. It is kind of a cross between a pancake and an english muffin. I suggest you try one the first chance you get:) We hiked a trail in just outside Port Angeles with my Uncle and his kids while Aunt Alyssa stayed home with their littlest, Josiah. The Port Angeles area is beautiful, green, and lush. It is totally true that there is a coffee shop on every corner in Seattle! I have never drank so much coffee in my life! But, it was all wonderful...considering the weather is perfect for it! I was glad to get back to sunshine....even if it is HUMID!! My favorite part of the trip other than being with the whole fmaily of course....was SEATTLE! I liked Victoria, Canada...but Seattle was just so much fun. We only went to a Starbucks once...just because we were in the birthplace of the company! I much more enjoyed the little local cafes! Below are a few of my pictures that I took.....not all of them are on there because it would take a while! It is a slide show, so skip forward if it is too slow...have a wonderful week! Much love to you all!

pictures

2008-06-10T18:25:00.001-07:00

2008-05-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

Hi, all! I am so excited....I have been counting down the months and weeks until my trip to Washington and now it is only 3 days away. I am packed already though bc the next couple of days are packed full of things going on. Ang is visiting us from Cali so I am trying to soak up as much time with her as I can...and Betsy is up in Elida from Florida, so I am spending all of Tuesday with her bc I will get back after she has left. And Wednesday we leave before the sun even starts rising!ugh...but at least we will get to seattle in the Early afternoon rather than later at night...so we can explore when we get there!YIPPEEE I am looking forward to spending time with mom and linds...and visiting my dear family! I love being with family! That is one of the most important things in my life...where would we be without family to be with? Well, I will write again when I get home! love to all!

oops! I couldn't get this to work earlier...so here are the pics from 5-5-08

2008-05-09T16:03:00.001-07:00

CINCO DE MAYO

2008-05-07T13:57:00.000-07:00

SO, it wasn't exactly planned esp for cinco de mayo, but I had a few girls over on Monday just for fun and as I wrote out the invites, I realized it was cinco de mayo...fun fun. Well, we had a lot of fun actually. Everybody brought a pot to plant flowers in that we can each give to someone we know who could use encouragement or who maybe means a lot to each of us. Well, we had parfaits, blueberry poundcake, and coffee when everyone got here and we visited a little while and then had a late lunch and planted our flower pots. Barb brought some beautiful flowers and I supplied the soil. Each person contributed to the lunch we had...consisting of chicken fajita salad, chips and salsa, fruit and dip, and chocolate cookies. I had so much fun. The flower pots turned out beautifully, and we couldn't have asked for a prettier Spring day! Here are a few pics from our day...enjoy!

NEWS

2008-04-08T10:49:00.000-07:00

Hi all! I just wantedt o write a quick update of my family. We will soon be adding a new one to the Mike and Kim Peters family....ALI IS ENGAGED TO BRITTON! Yes, I will soon have a brother-in-law. We are all very excited...esp the girls bc it means we get to make wedding plans again. The whole wedding preparation is so much fun! I am so happy for Britt and Ali...and the fact that she will be closer to me....can we all say...CARPOOL?! I am looking forward to going up Elida to visit for the day and being able to talk to someone other than my dog the whole way up there!

In other news...Ryan and Lindsay Coning welcomed their new little baby boy this morning areound 7! GRAHAM EDWARD CONING! I adore that name! I am looking forward to visiting with them later on in the week!

The sun is out today so hopefully I can get motivated to finish cleaning out the leaves from behind the bushes around the house...ugh...but maybe I can get a little sun...yipee! Well, I hope this finds everyone well! Till next time....

2008-03-31T06:16:00.000-07:00

Not much has been going on lately. We have gone to Elida two weekends in a row. The first was for Easter. The second was just this past weekend for my Lindsay's and Britton's birthdays. Easter was so much fun. The whole family was there. I love to get together with family...esp since it is so long between each get together. All the little kids and babies..oh so fun. So, Lindsay is another year older! WOW...15. Almost driving.

Last night we had Grant and Colista and Brent and Laura over. We had a great time just talking and laughing! It is a fun time to get friends together. Esp bc we haven't had people over in a while....It gets like that in the winter though...we kinda become hermits!

It is going to be kind of a busy week this week. YIPEE! A baby shower for Rachel Crist, a family sewing(i don't sew but i DO talk the whole time!), counsel meeting, get Coach to the groomer! Looking forward to everything this week.

Update will come later.......

WINTER

2008-03-03T09:49:00.000-08:00

Okay fellow bloggers. I am suffering from SPRING FEVER. It is an epidemic that seeems to be touching many people out there. What do you do when you are locked up in the house bc it is too cold to do anything outside? I like to be outside and I have quite a few projects that I need to get started on. However, I need to do most of them outside and am unable to do it bc of the weather. Oh well Spring will be here before we know it. I have noticed that the bulbs that I finally planted last fall are beginning to come up! That is so exciting, bc I didn't have nay last Spring to enjoy. It is so nice when we get to see the new flowers arrive to let us know that winter is finally gone for a few seasons!