Dave, Courtney, Andalyn and Ryan

Christmas Letter 2009

2009-12-29T17:44:00.001-08:00

Our Dearest Family and Friends,

We hope this letter finds you all well!! As a family, we want you all to know how much we love and appreciate you and would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas. This time of year is a wonderful time to reflect on how truly blessed we each are. For us, we started 2009 living in El Dorado Hills, CA. We really enjoyed our time there and made some great friends. However, in March we had a wonderful opportunity to rent an attached apartment at my Great Uncle and Aunt’s home in Fair Oaks, CA. It was something we couldn’t pass up. We have been incredibly happy here! My Uncle and Aunt have been such wonderful neighbors! All of us have become very attached to them as they are a part of our everyday lives.
Andalyn and Ryan love to watch Uncle Merlin in the backyard from the sliding glass door. They knock on the door and scream at the top of their lungs, “Hi Uncle Merlin” with so much excitement. Another one of their favorite things is to walk Daddy out as he leaves for work. They also scream at the top of their lungs, “Bye Daddy”, I’m sure the neighbors love that wake-up call!
Dave is still working at Verizon Wireless and really enjoys it. We are so blessed to that he works for a company that takes such great care of us! He manages a retail store in Placerville California. Dave works really hard and has a very abnormal schedule; this has been the case for about 2 years now. We are always adjusting to it, but those times that Dave is able to be home, we make the most of it by spending time together as a family. Due to his crazy schedule, Dave has had to start working Sundays and ended up being released from his calling as the Gospel Doctrine teacher. Because he still wanted to serve in some way, he creates the programs for Sacrament meeting every Sunday.
I am enjoying staying home with Andalyn and Ryan. My two kiddies are everything to me and I wouldn’t miss these years at home with them for anything! From cleaning up mess after mess, to sharing a moment of belly laughing with them, it is my greatest joy! Once we moved into our new ward here in Fair Oaks, I was called into the Young Women’s Program as the Laurel/Mia Maid Advisor. I have never loved another calling more than this one! To be able to serve with such wonderful women, see the girls faces every Sunday and teach them about the gospel brings me so much joy.
Dave and I celebrated our five year wedding anniversary on June 4th. We decided to take a trip down memory Lane by driving to San Francisco. Dave not only proposed to me there (at Fort Point, underneath the Golden Gate Bridge), we spent some time there prior to heading to Las Vegas for our Honeymoon. We had dinner at the Carnelian Room on the 52nd Floor of the tallest building in SF, overlooking the Bay. We really enjoyed going to all of our favorite spots and added walking across the Golden Gate Bridge. It was a perfect way to look back on and celebrate the last 5 years.
Andalyn Belle has grown leaps and bounds in 2009! She started out as our precocious little “Baby Girl” and is now our little Jr. Kindergartner! She just turned 4 and is such a big girl. Our sweetheart never ceases to amaze us. She knows every letter of the alphabet by sight, knows how to write her name and can count to 30 all by herself, and 100 with a little help. She just had her first “Thanksgiving Presentation” at school with all of her little preschool friends. They sang some songs and had a mini-feast for all the friends and family that came. She also took some ballet and tap classes this year, which she LOVED! She asks on a very regular basis when she can go back to her dance classes. Her little testimony is also budding. She loves to say prayers and have Family Home evening. The day before Halloween she prayed that it wouldn’t rain so that she could go trick-or-treating and had her first testimony builder when the forecast was wrong; it didn’t rain! She was so grateful that Heavenly Father answered her prayer. It is a beautiful thing to watch! We are looking forward to her first Primary Presentation in a few weeks. She even has a little speaking part in the program. It is only 5 words long but we are very excited to watch our little girl being part of the program.
Ryan has grown up so fast...we can't believe that he will be 2 in January! This year has flown by! He started out 2009 as our little baby and is ending it as a full blown toddler. He has amazed us with how fast he is learning and growing! He is so adventurous and has no fear! It was a huge shock when our 18 month old boy wanted to follow his sister all over the playground, even to places that should scare him. It definitely scares Mommy! Luckily he is very resilient. We really enjoy watching him figure things out and just being a boy. Watching the world through his eyes is so much fun! We are trying to enjoy our kids as much as we can while they are young because we know how fast it will go by. I had a feeling come very strongly regarding this when we took my brother Logan to Utah. He was entering the MTC to serve in the Canada Calgary Mission. Before we headed into the MTC we were taking the “normal” pictures of Logan in front of the MTC sign. We then put Ryan in front of the sign and started taking his picture. I realized as I was taking his picture that this time for him will come before we know it. It was a very bitter sweet realization! He made a very cute “Future Missionary” as he had a tag on with that title on it that Uncle Logan got for him. We love our little Momma’s boy!
2009 has been a wonderful year for the Cashdollar family! Although we have downsized our home and dealt with some financial setbacks, we have come to appreciate our blessings so much more! We have each other and the Gospel, and those are really the things that make us happy. We hope that this Season finds all of you happy, healthy and blessed. Let us all remember that the Savior is the reason we celebrate this time of year!

With love and warm Holiday Wishes,
Dave, Courtney, Andalyn & Ryan Cashdollar

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-29T17:43:00.003-08:00

This year has been the most fun since having the kids!! Andalyn is old enough to really understand that the season is about Christ's birth. She also is very aware of Santa and his naughty and nice list. :) We have spent this season really getting into it, which made Christmas morning so much fun!! Here are a few shots of the kids with their loot.
Ryan on his new scooter from Santa.

Andalyn and Ryan on their scooters.

Andalyn and her kitty that she named Brownie that Santa brought her.

My little man sweeping for mommy with his new broom. He is my little helper and loves it!

Once Christmas morning at our house was over we headed over to Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollars to continue in the spirit of Christmas morning. We not only opened wonderful gifts, we had a very yummy lunch of homemade chicken noodle soup and rolls.

The kids had so much fun opening the gifts and playing with them right away. I had to get this shot of Ryan, climbing into Daddy's box that has his Wii Fit in it, while playing with his new elephant. He is posing for Andalyn while she takes a picture with her new camera. She is quite the photographer. We had to get her a durable camera so she didn't want to use mine all of the time.

Once we were done at Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollar's we headed up to my sister Stacy's house for the Petersen side Christmas celebration. We were all able to talk to my brother Logan who is on a mission in Canada. It was so good to talk to him and share that with my family. We love and miss him a ton! However couldn't be more proud of him!

We had a wonderful prime rib dinner, courtesy of my brother in law Marc,with all the trimmings courtesy of my sister, mom and myself. When fabulous dinner was over we had our gift exchange. It is getting more and more fun as our family is getting bigger! Having little ones around really makes it exciting as you experience Christmas through their eyes.

We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas full of Love and the spirit of the season!

Letters to Santa

2009-12-29T17:43:00.001-08:00

I was so happy to hear that in El Dorado Hills Santa comes around the neighborhoods, on top of a firetruck to pick up all of the kids letters to him in exchange a candy cane. My cousin Jen decided to make a night of it with the kids since the firetruck was coming down her street. We went over there, had pizza, and had the kids put their letters together for Santa. The kids had a blast while it gave the adults time to relax and visit. I love this time of year, and love that we are finding so many things to make it memorable! Thanks Jen for having us over it was wonderful!
Here are the kids all bundled up ready to go see Santa. (Ryan, Braden, Andalyn & Eden)

Daddy and the kids waiting for Santa, letters in hand.

Here he comes!!

Santa!!

Ryan enjoying his candy cane from Santa!! He looks like a little puppy dog...what a cutie!!

I love Christmas!!

Yummy Christmas activity!

2009-12-29T17:42:00.000-08:00

The kids and I have been trying to do fun Christmasy things during this holiday season. We decided to buy a Gingerbread Man Cookie decorating kit. I did take the lazy way out due to not loving gingerbread however the kids still loved it!! Andalyn had a blast decorating and eating hers afterwords...however Ryan loved to decorate and eat all at the same time. Me...I just made a gingerbread man who looked like Daddy. Complete with pants, shirt and tie.

Andalyn's trip to the Dentist

2009-12-29T17:14:00.001-08:00

We took Andalyn to the Dentist for the first time this year. I am so proud to say that she was so brave!! She didn't even cry!! I am super happy with Magic Smiles where I took here. They are wonderful with the kids!!

Here she is getting ready to take "pictures"of her teeth.

She watched a movie while she got her teeth cleaned with watermelon flavored tooth past.

She amazes me with how fast she is growing up!!

Snow in Sacramento!!

2009-12-29T17:06:00.000-08:00

December 7, 2009

To our surprise on this morning in December we woke up to snow outside our window in Fair Oaks, CA!! CRAZY!!

They kids had to make sure it was in the front yard too...

We decided to go up to El Dorado Hills which is only a 20 min drive to my sisters house to play in the snow. This is how much snow they got! Again...CRAZY!

The kids are all bundled up ready to go out and play in the snow!

Cute shot of the cousins that are the best of friends!

Ryan not too sure about walking in this "white stuff"!

Andalyn is diggn' in!

The kids had a blast playing in the front of my sisters house!

My sweet boy!

Andalyn got an idea....she is trying to find the perfect spot.

She wanted to make a snow angel!! So cute!

It didn't take long before Ryan got an idea of his own!

Montana...what a cute little thing!

Once the kids had been playing for a few minutes, I decided to help the kids make a snow man.

I had to pull my sweatshirt sleeves from under my coat, over my hands...it didn't help much, my hands still froze!

Montana putting her touch on the snow man.

Dave...wearing Ryan's superman beanie...helping the girls.

Being from this part of California we NEVER get snow so it was such a surprise when we did. The kids loved it but I must say it was fun for one day...I'm glad I don't have to live in it!

A Wedding & a Tea Party

2009-12-04T20:30:00.001-08:00

October 17, 2009

My brother David married the love of his life, Ashley this last October. We are all so happy for them and couldn't be more proud of them. They were married in the Sacramento California LDS Temple. It was such a beautiful day!! Here are some more beautiful pictures of them.

It was so sweet...they had all of us in the wedding. My little man looked so handsome in his tux and Andalyn looked beautiful in her red dress. Unfortunately Andalyn was only in her dress for about 15 min before she had to be wist away by Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollar due to her running a very high fever from an ear infection she developed the night before. So, needless to say it just wasn't the same for us without our baby girl at the temple to be in all of the pictures. We did however get one shot of her with David and Ashley by the photographer. I hope it turned out cute due to that being the only memory she will get to look back on that day. :( Once we were all done taking pictures at the temple Dave and I headed to his parents home to check on Andalyn. She was awake when I got there, however with one hug from mommy, she was asleep in my arms! Poor thing! So unfortunately Dave missed the reception so he could stay and take care of Andalyn.

Ryan and I headed back to Elk Grove for the reception. It was BEAUTIFUL!! They had it in Ashley's parents back yard. Once they dancing started Ryan was in seventh heaven and the hit of the party. In his little tux pants, red vest and tie dancing to "elbows up, side to side" PRICELESS!!

Congratulations David and Ashley!!! We love you!!

November 2009

Aunt Ashley came to have a special tea party with Andalyn where she wore her wedding dress and Andalyn wore her flower girl dress. This was all Ashley's idea because she felt so bad that Andalyn missed the wedding! So sweet!!

Once they had their tea and chatted a bit they came into the living room for some pictures and dancing.

Uncle David, Aunt Ashley and David dancing as if they were are the wedding reception.

Ryan was a grump that day but couldn't resist posting this picture. :)

Thank you David and Ashley for making Andalyn feel so special and spending time with here doing something so wonderful!! Love you!

Don't shoot!

2009-12-04T12:03:00.000-08:00

It's official....Ryan is a big boy. He, without any help or coaxing made himself a gun out of blocks. I noticed this when he was making shooting noises and pointing it at his sister! :) I can't believe how fast this little guy is growing up! He is still my little mama's boy, but is doing so many new things latley!! Love you buddy boy!

Andalyn's Preschool Thanksgiving Presenation and Feast.

2009-12-04T11:19:00.001-08:00

Andalyn's preschool class worked on some very cute Thanksgiving and Fall songs to sing for their friends and family. It was such a sweet Presentation. Here is a picture of Andalyn's preschool class.

This is Andalyn and her Teacher Miss Angela.

Andalyn and her other Teacher Miss Heather, she loves them both so much!

The mini Feast...

The kids enjoying their "Feast"

It is so fun to watch not only Andalyn but all of her preschool friends grow as the year goes on. They are all such good friends and love their teachers.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-04T10:24:00.000-08:00

We have so much to be thankful for this year. We have a roof over our heads, an income to support our little family, extended family whom we love and appreciate, a free land to live in, and the Gospel in our lives! I love that we have a time of year to reflect on what we are truly thankful for although it is something that should be on our minds daily. I know I could be better about being more appreciate to those around me and my Heavenly Father for all that I enjoy.

This year we were lucky enough to celebrate Thanksgiving twice! On Wednesday the 25th we went to my in-laws home for a beautiful thanksgiving dinner. My Mother In-Law made most of the yummy food, however I was able to make the stuffing. I have never attempted to make homemade stuffing before however thought I would attempt it this year. I turned out really good. I really got into cooking this year. I really had never before. We enjoyed the company of my In-Laws and shared in some delicious pie's my Mother In-Law made.

We then, on Thursday the 26th, headed to my Mom and Dad's for a traditional McFadyen's side Thanksgiving with about 25-30 people and enough food to feel almost twice that. :) It was delicious though!! I love having such a large family! However I do love having a small family on the Cashdollar side. Best of both worlds!! :) Everyone that came for Thanksgiving at my mom's all brought something to share. I was asked to bring mashed potatoes. I had again, never made mashed potatoes for that many people. After peeling 27 potatoes and adding a few things they turned out pretty good. I also made a pumpkin spice cake with cream cheese frosting. This was a recipe I got from a women in my ward and it was wonderful. I ate way too much of it! We all enjoyed visiting with each other and getting caught up.

To all of you, the Cashdollar Family hopes you had a great Thanksgiving!!

Courtney's Cooking adventures....with some little helpers!

Here is the stuffing that I took to my In-Laws.

The pumkin spice cake before frosting.

and...my little potatoe helpers. We are all in our jammies since we had to get an early start with so many potatoes to peel, cut and cook. :)

Happy 4th Birthday Baby Girl!!!

2009-11-29T15:48:00.000-08:00

Our Sweet Andalyn Belle,
I can't believe another year has gone by! You are getting to be such a big girl. You are surprising us everyday with how smart you are. You have started preschool this year and are loving it! Your teachers Miss Angela and Miss Heather love you so much! They tell me how good you are and how well you listen to them all of the time! They also tell me what a great example you are to all of your friends in class. When Mommy and Daddy hear things like that we are so proud of you! We already know these things about you, however to hear that you are such a joy to be around when Mommy and Daddy are not around makes us so happy!

You have also been in Primary now for almost a year. You are loving learning about Jesus and being kind to others! You are starting to really understand basic principals of the gospel and enjoy talking about them. Your little testimony is budding and it is beautiful to watch. You are so close to the spirit and love to pray to your Heavenly Father. You also love to have Family Home Evening every Monday night! You and Ryan loved to stand in front of the TV and lead us in songs. You never let us forget to get you a "leading stick" so that you can direct the music properly.

You will never know the pure joy you bring into our lives. You made us a family, joining Mommy and Daddy 4 years ago. You brought us together closer than we could ever imagine we could be. You are such a great big sister to Ryan. He is learning so much from you. You guys play pretend all of the time. It is so precious to watch. I can see it in Ryan's eyes when he looks at you, that he really leans on you to lead and guide him. Knowing what a good girl you are I know that both of you will continue to learn and grow and experience wonderful things together.

You have so many friends and family that love you so much. Our lives will forever be touched because you are in them!

Stay close to your Heavenly Father and Savior Andalyn Belle, you will always be lead and guided on righteous paths as you do so.

We love you more than words could express!! You will always be our baby girl!!
Love,

Mommy & Daddy

Andalyn's Asian Inspired "Ni Hao Ki Lan" Birthday Party

Her Ki Lan Cake...she put the flowers on around the cake...she loved it!

Andalyn posing in front of her Ki Lan poster that they played "pin the heart on Ki Lan"

The party table complete with chinese sweets and carry out boxes with goodies in them.

Andalyn's primary friend Ashley and her cousin Eden enjoying birthday cake

Andalyn and her cousin Montana enjoying birthday cake.

Andalyn's primary friend Maddie enjoying her cake.

The girls hang'n out and having fun.

Ryan having his fair share of cake.

My sister, cousin and mom visiting around the party table.

Present time!!!

Andalyn opening up her presents.

Thank you to those of you who came! She loved all of your company and gifts!

Happy Birthday baby girl!!

Andalyn....your hiccups are gone!

2009-11-24T17:03:00.000-08:00

Today, as we were getting in the car to come home from Target, Andalyn had the hiccups. She was really upset about it and wanted to know how to get rid of them. I said "honey, you have to breath in really deep..." she said "but mommy,I can't." I finished up getting the kids and the bags in the car and she didn't say anything about it all the way home. As we were walking in the house I noticed that her hiccups were gone...I said" Andalyn, your hiccups are gone!" She said with excitement, and a little surprised because she had forgotten about them too..."Heavenly Father answered my question" I couldn't of been more proud at that moment...but I did try and correct her and say, "You mean, Heavenly Father answered your prayer?" she said, matter of factually "no mommy! my question!" I said " oh, ok....what was your question?" she proceeded to say "if he would make my hiccups go away." This is why I am a mother...if could only have the perfect faith of a little child! He does say come to me in ALL things! :)

Happy Birthday to Daddy!!!

2009-11-16T19:47:00.000-08:00

July 28, 2009 This is a flash back due to me not being up to date on blogging. :)

Dave,

On this day and every other day I hope you know home much the kids and I love and appreciate you! I know you do, and sacrifice so much to provide for our family. You are such a wonderful daddy! The kids love and adore you. When you are not home they always are asking where you are or when you are coming home. The excitement they show when you come home, I'm sure...shows you how much you mean to them! You are a wonderful husband as well. We may have our ups and downs but when it comes down to it I know that we can get through anything! Thank you for being the one person that I can be 100% myself! I find that very comforting! You are as attractive and charming as the day I met you. I love you so very much and hope that your birthday is great!

I love you!
Courtney

We started out Dave's birthday at the river feeding the ducks as a family. This has become a favorite pass time during the summer since we have moved to Fair Oaks.

Daddy and his kiddies!

Dave wanted brownies instead of a birthday cake however I had to at lease frost them so it looked like a birthday cake! :) Andalyn helped with the sprinkles and candles.

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Daddy, Happy Birthday to you!

Ryan enjoying some of Daddy's birthday brownies!

Andalyn doing the same.

Dave being Dave....and Andalyn following in his footsteps. :)

Daddy got some new shoes so he can play basketball.

We love you Dave!! Glad we could have a great day together as a family!

(Just wish we could of gone to the Paramore Concert like we planned....darn flu!)

Pier 39

2009-11-16T19:35:00.001-08:00

During that same trip to San Fransico we decided to walk along Pier 39 to enjoy the shops, ocean....and WIND! :)

Such a great family trip with Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollar!

Our trip to the San Francisco Aquarium

2009-10-01T14:48:00.000-07:00

Dave had some vacation time this summer. After spending the first 10 days of his vacation passing the flu around the house, we took a family trip to San Francisco. Dave's parents were able to come with us which made it extra fun! The highlight of the trip was the Aquarium. Here are some pictures that we got while we were there.

Andalyn had to have a picture of "Dory".

The kids loved the white alligator!!

What a cutie!

Andalyn loved the part where she got touch the star fish!

Mommy's little helper

2009-10-01T14:44:00.000-07:00

Andalyn has been showing an interest in helping mommy with the house work. She insisted on taking out the trash...what a strong girl!!

Andalyn and Ryan's new obsession

2009-09-15T15:02:00.001-07:00

The Sandbox!!

We have found a few parks here in Fair Oaks that have some great sandbox's! It is my kids favorite thing to do while at the park. They come home with sand from head to toe but have a blast while doing it! It is a HUGE mess to clean up once we are done but it's worth the endless fun while at the park!

Dr. Ryan

2009-09-15T14:56:00.001-07:00

I took Ryan for his well baby visit this last month! He is happy and healthy. Aside from a couple shots they visit went great! At one point he wanted to play Dr. with his pediatricians stethoscope. Too cute!

Andalyn's 1st day of Preschool!!

2009-09-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

On September 1st Andalyn started Preschool at Marble Valley in El Dorado Hills. She is LOVING it!!! I think if it was up to her, she would go everyday all day. The morning started out with Andalyn waking up...and the first thing that she said was "is it time to go to school??" I said "yes." She jumped out of bed and proceeded to get ready for school. She wore new clothes that her Grandma Cashdollar got for her. She was also equipped with a new pink backpack with an iron on teddy bear that mommy put on there for her and a hello Kitty dangle on the zipper...
Once mommy got her to school she walked right in and started playing with the Mr. Potato Heads with the other children that were there...and forgot all about mommy. :) I asked her if she needed mommy to stay and she said "no"....a little sad she didn't need me but very proud of her for being so brave on her first day at a new place...I got in the car and headed home.

She just got back from her 2nd day of School about a half hour ago and it's all she can talk about. We are so excited for her time in preschool and are so excited to watch her continue to grow into such a beautiful smart little girl!!

My poor baby's nose dive!

2009-07-09T09:48:00.001-07:00

This was the result of running to the car to climb in so she could go to her ballet class. Instead of getting in the car, she took a nose dive into the driveway. Needless to say she was so upset that she didn't want to go to ballet anymore. Poor thing!!

Our new callings....

2009-07-07T19:28:00.000-07:00

This last Sunday Dave and I were called into the Bishops office by one of his counselors and were given callings. Dave was called as one of the Gospel Doctrine Teachers. He has done this before and is wonderful at it. I am very excited for him. As for me I was called to be the Advisor over the Mia Maid's and Laurels. I am so excited. Not to sound too weired but I feel like I have known something like this was coming for months. I felt like I was being prepared for something. And when I was called to this position I felt confirmation that this was it. I love the spirit and the truth it can bare!! I have been anticipating a calling like this for years because it talks about working with the youth in my patriarchal blessing a lot.

I got to meet about 9 of the 17 girls in my ward. What a great group of girls. I am really looking forward to my first mutual night tomorrow and my first chance to teach on Sunday. I think the reason I am so excited is because I will have a gospel related subject to study every week to bring back to the girls on Sunday, I have a feeling I will learn way more from them than the other way around.

Andalina Ballerina

2009-06-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

Our Andalyn Belle is officially a Ballerina. She is taking her first ballet and tap class. She is in seventh heaven! She has found her calling...well at least for now. :) I do hope she continues to be intrigued by dance but we'll see where her little heart takes her. But for now we call her Andalina Ballerina.

Here she is in first position doing a plie.

Here she is on her tip toes looking like the cutest ballerina I've ever seen!!

A special thank you to her grandma for her ballet shoes and tap shoes. You will very rarely catch her without one or the other on around the house.

Daddy's socks and Mommy's heels...

2009-06-13T19:32:00.000-07:00

The other day as I was in the shower....Andalyn was watching her shows on my bed, so I thought. Well mid-shower she comes walking in looking like this.
She had gotten in to Dave's and my dresser and put on my sweater, jeans, belt, heels and Daddy's socks. She was so proud of her self! She cracks me up....what a cutie!

Has it really been 5 years already?!

2009-06-06T15:29:00.000-07:00

Dave and I just celebrated our 5th year anniversary!! It had flown by, I can't believe that it has been 5 years already! This year we decided to take a stroll down memory lane for our anniversary. I'm so glad we did. We had an amazing time reconnecting and enjoying each others company!

On Thursday we got the kids and our selves packed up and headed to Grandma and Grandpa Petersen's house to drop off the kids. They were so excited to have a "sleep over" at Grandma's house. They had a blast while we were gone! Once the kids were situated at Grandma's house Dave and I headed to San Francisco. Dave proposed to me in San Francisco on February 10, 2004 at Fort Point which is right under the Golden Gate Bridge. We also had our first dinner as a married couple at the Carnelian Room in the Bank of America Building in San Francisco. So needless to say S.F. has a lot of sentimental value to us.

Before we checked in to our hotel we stopped and had lunch at Benihana. This was a first for me, and I LOVED it!! For those of you who haven't been to one, they chefs prepare your food at your table on a huge hot plate! They do some fun things while cooking to keep you entertained as well! Awesome experience! Here is a picture of our chef fixing out fried rice.

We then proceeded to drive to check in to our hotel. We stayed at the Omni Hotel right across from the Bank of America Building that we were going to have dinner at later that evening. Very convenient! We opted to spend a little more on our hotel room so that we would make sure we weren't in a sketchy area. This hotel was above and beyond any other hotel we have ever stayed at! We felt a little out of place! They only did valet parking, they had a door man and chandlers everywhere. BEAUTIFUL! But like I said out of our league. However we did enjoy it...who wouldn't. Here are a few pictures I found on the internet of the Omni Hotel.

The hotel lobby

The kind of room we stayed in.

Later that evening we got all dressed up to go to the Carnelian room. Funny story is when we went 5 years ago we had no idea how nice this place was. We went in our street clothes and flip flops. The waiter was in a tuxedo with a long tie on! So this time we knew better and went a little more prepared. The amazing thing about this restaurant is that it is in the tallest building on the highest accessible floor (52nd floor) in San Francisco. We could see EVERYTHING from our table. It was kind of a full circle moment for us. We were sitting at a table that was facing Oakland and we could the Temple. We had a very nice conversation and enjoyed each others company throughout dinner. I would say out of the whole trip my favorite moments were at that table.

On Friday we set out to find the place that Dave proposed to me. Another funny story....he was planning on proposing to me right at Fort Point on the water, however there wasn't any parking at the time. I also was suffering from an extreme cast of car/motion sickness. I never actually "got sick" but I might as well have. So Dave drove, maybe a quarter of a mile or less up this little road right above Fort Point to a turn off on the road so that I could get some air....so I thought. He then came around to my side of the car and with the view of the ocean he proposed to me. I forgot all about being sick and said YES of course! So in memory of the turn off....we tried to find it again....Well they have changed that portion of the road a lot in the last 5 years and it was under construction so we didn't get to stop...however I tried to get a picture of the view we had as he proposed. This is the best I got. However if we were able to get out and get a better shot you would see how beautiful the view really was when he proposed. One of my favorite days!
We then drove back down the little road to the very parking lot at Fort Point where Dave originally planned on proposing....PLENTY of parking on this day. :) It is beautiful!!

I had never walked across the Golden Gate Bridge, so that was next on the agenda. I got some awesome pictures of the bridge.

We took turns with another couple taking each others pictures.

It a little windy on the bridge. :)

We got to see a HUGE ship go under the bridge.

We then got in the car and drove across the bridge. It also was a beautiful view!

After driving around a bit, enjoying the view and conversation....we headed home. Before we went home though we had to stop at our FAVORITE sea food place in Berkley. Spenger's!! The best crab cakes you will ever have. We have been going to this place since we were dating!

I have to say, since this trip I have been bitten by the 5 year love bug. I love Dave more now then ever. I'm not sure if anyone has ever felt that before...it's almost like our marriage jumped up a notch in commitment and love....I know mushy....but it's true. Happy Anniversary Honey! This trip was the perfect way to celebrate our 5th year Anniversary. I love you!!

Out with the frumpy...in with the sassy!

2009-04-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

Any of you mom's sport the mommy ponytail on a daily basis?!?! I did....for like 3 years. I got so sick of it! I felt so frumpy and ever since I had my son 15 months ago, my hair was STILL falling out! So in hopes that it would help with the falling out and frumpyness I cut it off! I can't tell you how happy I am with it. I did it about 6 weeks ago and I am thoroughly enjoying it. I took off like 8 inches!

BEFORE:

AFTER: (it's a about an inch and a half shorter in the back, it's an a-line cut)

Big sigh....much better!!

Easter Day 2009

2009-04-17T21:03:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Easter this last Sunday. We hope all of you did as well!! Our morning of course started out with the traditional Easter baskets that the Easter bunny had left the night before. Andalyn was so excited about the fact that not only Santa comes to her house but so does the Easter bunny!
The kids got baskets filled with treats and surprises....both kids were very pleased.

Here is their loot...

The Kids checking out their loot.

Andalyn LOVED her pink stuffed bunny.

Ryan just got a kick out of carrying his soccer ball basket around the house.

We of course tried to get the kids picture taken on our front steps before church so that we got them looking their best....but these are the best we got...

A little better but Andalyn is hiding.

We did get this beautiful picture of Andalyn in our front yard before church. I love my baby girl!

Once we went to church and were reminded what this special day is all about we headed over to Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollars house for lunch. We were lucky enough to have Great Grandma and Grandpa over there for lunch too! It had been a little while since they had seen the kids. Ryan really took to Great Grandpa and that just tickled just about everyone.

Here is Andalyn and Ryan playing "tea party" on Grandma Cashdollars alpaca rug that is incredibly soft. The kids LOVE it!

After a wonderful lunch and some great family time spent at Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollar's we headed up to my sister Stacy's house for a Petersen Family get together. Minus David and Logan. David was in Southern California and Logan is of course on his mission. It felt a little small with out them there. Missed you guys!

The daddies were tuckered out and fell asleep while watching a golf game.

Poor guy works so hard and this is the best nap he can get!

While dinner was cooking my sisters Tiffany and Nicole hid some eggs so that Andalyn, Montana and Ryan could have an Easter egg hunt.

Andalyn happy about finding some eggs!

Sweet Montana with her basket ready to find some eggs.

Andalyn rushing around trying to find eggs. She LOVED it! This was the first year we actually had a hunt.

The girls enjoying the game.

Ryan putting an egg in Montana's basket.

My sweet babies!

Andalyn and Montana! I love this picture of the two of them. They love each other so much. They fight like sisters but they also love like them too!

The grandkids. You're right mom....our family just doesn't make ugly babies! So cute!!!

We had a great time at Stacy and Marc's! Dinner was great and so was the company! Thank you guys for such a good time!

I hope you all had a great Easter! I love holiday's....it gives us all time to spend with those we love the most!

HAPPY EASTER!!

First Presidency's Easter Message

2009-04-11T12:35:00.000-07:00

As I was out getting my kids Easter candy and basket fillers yesterday, I found myself not focusing on what this Easter season is REALLY about. So to bring my self back and really draw on the spirit on this spacial time of year I looked up the First Presidency's Easter Message. It's short and sweet, but defiantly does the job of influencing us with the spirit of the Savior and what he has done for us!

At this Easter season of hope and renewal we testify of the glorious reality of the atonement and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The empty tomb brought comforting assurance and provided the answer to the question of Job, “If a man die, shall he live again?” (Job 14:14).
Because of the Savior’s resurrection we will overcome death and become the beneficiaries of His mercy and grace. In a world of trouble and uncertainty, His peace fills our hearts and eases our minds. Jesus is in very deed “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).
We give our sure witness that Jesus is the Christ. Though He was crucified, He rose triumphant from the tomb to our everlasting blessing and benefit. To each member of the human family He stands as our Advocate, our Savior, and our Friend.

President Thomas S. Monson and his counselors, President Henry B. Eyring and President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Ok, I think I'm back!! The last 2 months have been CRAZY!!!!!!

2009-04-10T13:24:00.000-07:00

To the two of you who I know check to see if I update my blog :) .....I'm back! I hope to get back on track and at least update it every week! The last 2 months have been crazy....Just to name a few things that have been keeping me busy!!

*packing up my old house: Because we down sized I had to go through EVERYTHING to see what I absolutely needed and what could go into our 1 car garage! This process took FOREVER!
*organizing and getting the move to the new house done. Thank you to our family and EDH ward members that came to help!
*unpacking our new house....which we LOVE. We are living in Fair Oaks now in an "attached apartment" at my Great Aunt and Uncles house. It is perfect for us, 1400 square feet 2 bedroom, 2 full bath home!
*Then getting ready for my trip to Utah with my kids and no husband. :( Unfortunately he had to work. My family and I went to take my brother Logan to the MTC on April 1st. Which was probably one of the hardest trips ever because Ryan was sick the whole time with a nasty virus that just got worse when we got home. Although it was a WONDERFUL experience to be at the MTC with Logan and spend those last few days with him in Utah.

So now we have been home from Utah for over a week, and Ryan is just now starting to feel better. So needless to say I have had a hard time finding the time to really do some quality blogging. I have to say I have missed it. It really makes me appreciate every little thing my kids do and helps me keep a "journal" of our little family's lives.

So I'm back and ready for some blogg'n fun!! I hope to get to all of your blogs and get caught up on what all of you have been up too!

HAPPY BLOGGING!

Moving day is here!!

2009-03-13T14:09:00.000-07:00

So as you all can see I haven't blogged in quite a while! For that I am sorry! I have been busy busy busy trying to get my house packed for tomorrow! We are saying goodbye to El Dorado Hills for a while. Although we LOVE it here we are heading to Fair Oaks for a year or so. We hope to come back up this way when our time is done in Fair Oaks. As so many others, my little family has been effected by this economy and so it is necessary for us to down size for a little while. Our family is actually excited to be down-sizing and being a little cozier. The kids will be sharing a room and we will have a pool in the backyard! Andalyn can't wait until it gets warmer so she can wear her new Tinkerbell swim suit and go swimming. We are so grateful for this opportunity also because we will be renting form my Great Aunt and Uncle. They have, for lack of a better description, a duplex-like home. They will be right next door to us. I grew up going to this house every 4th of July....I'm excited to make some more memories while living here.

So once we are all settled in I will update my blog with lots of cute pictures of the kids and the few activities we have been able to squeeze in among all the packing.

Please keep visiting our blog...I really will be better! Here's to a new adventure in a new place!!

Faces on the Window

2009-02-25T14:25:00.000-08:00

For some reason our large window in our Dining area gets a lot of condensation on it in the morning. Andalyn LOVES to "draw" on the window when she sees it there. Here is my sweet girl and her masterpiece this morning.

My baby girl is so creative...I love that she has such a great imagination!

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2009-02-19T12:31:00.000-08:00

It was my Mom's birthday this past Monday! I always love reasons to celebrate and this was extra special because it was to celebrate my Mom. My Mother is someone I know I could not live with out. Without her I would not be the woman I am today, let alone the Mother I am today. My mother is so special and words cannot express how thankful I am to her and for her. She has always been there for me. In the last 3 years alone, I can recall many times her being there when I needed her most. Being a first-time mother isn't easy and I know that Dave and I couldn't have gotten through those first couple months of Andalyn being born without her. There was also a time that she took my sweet little new born Ryan for a week straight because, long-story short, I was flat on my back and couldn't get out of bed to take care of my children. There are countless times that I have needed my Mom and she has been there; no questions asked. It gives me great comfort to know I have her as my Mom!

To know my Mother is to love my Mother. She has a very infectious laugh and an even more infectious sense of humor. She is hilarious! My mom may be getting "older," but she is just one of the kids and loves it! It was great growing up and having all of my friends LOVE my mom, along with my brothers and sisters friends too. We have a very "cool" mom. :)

Mom, I love you so much...words cannot express how special you are to me! I hope you had a great birthday!

Something for Mothers to think about...

2009-02-12T19:49:00.001-08:00

"A mother has far greater influence on her children than anyone else, and she must realize that every word she speaks, every act, every response, her attitude, even her appearance and manner of dress affect the lives of her children and the whole family. It is while the child is in the home that gains from his mother the attitudes, hopes, and beliefs that will determine the kind of life he will live and the contribution he will make to society." -N. Eldon Tanner

This quote is something I have been pondering for a while now and just wanted to share.

I'm ok with 29!

2009-02-05T15:21:00.000-08:00

So today is my birthday. I'm entering my last year of my 20's. I've been thinking about it and have gone back and forth about if I'm happy about that or not. I have come to the conclusion that I am ok with it. I feel like I have grown a lot as a person this last year. I think I have had more trials this year than any other, however it has made me grow up and mature a little more. I feel like I am becoming an adult. I know that sounds funny....but for the longest time I haven't felt older than like 19. Well....I'm feeling the change. And I am digg'n it. I feel like I actually have a hold on a few things these days. I don't feel so out of control. I have learned that things felt out of control because I didn't take control. I'm taking it. I think one of the biggest things that will change this year is my weight. I have decided that I will have the body I NEVER had by the time I am 30. Dave and I started weight watchers in September. I have successfully lost 16 pounds and have kept it off. Much different than any other attempt at it. I know I will get the rest of my weight off and it will feel so good! I am going to ROCK 30!

In addition to the trials of last year I also was made more aware of the many blessings in my life. I have an awesome husband that loves me and puts his needs aside to make sure mine and the kids are met. I have two wonderful kids that take my breath away everyday! I have great parents, in-laws and brothers, sisters and a sweet little niece! I am so lucky to have the family that I have! For these blessings and many more I am so thankful. So here's to 29....may it be the best year yet!

Thank you to all of you who have wished me a happy birthday! You have really made my day!

Ryan's Birthday Party Elmo Style!

2009-02-01T10:12:00.000-08:00

On Saturday we had a party for Ryan to celebrate him turning one. He absolutely loved it! Between getting to eat tissue paper from unwrapping his presents and eating his weight in cake and icing he was in seventh heaven!
Thank you to everyone that came and showed him some love!

Here we are singing Happy Birthday to him...He loved it, he clapped for himself. It was so cute! Notice the nice clean boy...

"Oh, mom this is just the beginning!"

"Oh yeah....that is some good cake."

He really enjoyed licking his fingers. I love this picture!

Here is a very happy boy who enjoyed his cake!

Until next year little guy! We love you and Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to our Sweet Boy!!

2009-01-25T10:42:00.000-08:00

Dear Ryan,

I can't believe this day has already come! It seems like yesterday we were blessed to have you join our family. My labor and Delivery wasn't the easiest with you, and didn't go as planed. After laboring for 12 hours you were delivered as an emergency c-section. Your heart rate plummeted and so did Mommy's blood pressure. By the second time it happened you were not recovering from the drop. The Dr's got you out so fast and you were just fine. Mommy and Daddy were so grateful! We already loved you from the moment we found out we were pregnant.

Now it's a year later and you have enriched our lives so much. You have brought so much joy and laughter into our home. You have grown from being this itty bitty boy into this handsome little man whom we can't live without! I would say the thing that makes you stand out from any other is the hugs and squeezes you give. You have been giving these hugs since you were just a few months old. I can not tell you the feelings I get when you wrap your little arms around my neck and squeeze like there is no tomorrow. You even add a little "ahhh" sound like you really know it is a sign of love. You absolutely love your big sister...if she isn't home you are lost. She does so many things to entertain you and you just eat it up. She has become very attached to you and is always making sure you are ok and taken care of. Your Daddy loves you so much! I know you and your Daddy will have many wrestling matches as he already rolls you around all over the ground, all along you giggling away! You are definitely a Mama's boy! You give me the flirty eyes, and always can't get enough of being with your Mommy! I love it! I will take it as long as it lasts. :) Please know that you are a very loved little boy....one that is very special and will do great things in this life. Know that you have a Father in Heaven that watches over you and loves you very much. You also have been blessed to be born into a family that has a testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ. Depend on him and look to him as an example. We look forward to watching you grown in this coming year.

Love you buddy!

Mommy, Daddy & Andalyn

I have a confession!!!

2009-01-22T19:54:00.000-08:00

I am a.....

There needs to be a facebook anonymous or something! I have a blackberry so whenever I have a free moment I check to see if anyone has updated their status. If I do get a second to jump on the computer I log onto facebook first! I tell you this because I know I have slacked big time on updating my blog in a timely manor and I havne't been leaving comments on any of your blogs for that matter! :) I'm guilty of putting facebook first. Forgiving me! I know I'm not the only one...you all need to come out!!

Mary Kay make up fun!

2009-01-19T16:35:00.000-08:00

This last Tuesday my girlfriend came to my house and did a Mary Kay make up party! It was so nice to get all my girls together...at least the ones that could make it, and have fun playing with Make up! Dave took Andalyn on a Daddy Daughter Date and came home just in time for Andalyn to have a little fun herself!

Drum Roll please.....and here is the product of my sweet little 3 year old doing her own make up!

Yea....that is all lip gloss, all over her face. :) She had so much fun!

Thank you Kristina for doing the party we all had a great time and look forward to all of our new products.
If any of you are interested here is her website:www.marykay.com/kristinawebb/default.aspx

Success on the Potty and a Hair Cut!

2009-01-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

Well....This last Thursday was a big day for Andalyn. After playing with her cousin Eden, who is about 9 months older than her, she decided she wanted to were panties and use the toilet. This is a HUGE triumph!!! We have been trying to get this girl potty trained since June. When they say "they have to be ready" it is so true! All it took on this specific day was seeing that Eden was a big girl and used the potty. From that point on, Andalyn has been wearing panties and hasn't had any accidents!! That's 6 days with no oopsies!! So a big THANK YOU to Eden for being such a big girl and showing Andalyn how it's done!

This is a pictures of Eden and Andalyn at Andalyn's 3rd birthday party.

Looking at the pictures above brings me to the next part of Andalyn's big day on Thursday! She hasn't had her hair cut, other than her bangs since she was born. You can see above that she has this long pony tail with the perfect little ringlet of a curl in it. Well this is how I did her hair 99% of the time because it looked really long and stringy if I left it down. I have been fighting cutting it for a while, however since she was turning a new leaf with potty training I thought we would give her a new look too. :) So after her bath that night I cute the most perfect little lock of hair off of her sweet head.

It doesn't look like it but if you straitened this curl it ends up being like 5 inches long. Andalyn went from looking like a baby to looking like a big girl in minutes. Here is our beautiful girl with her new hair cut.

It's has been bitter sweet these past 6 days...I am seeing that my baby girl isn't such a baby anymore. I love you Andalyn Belle and Daddy and I are so proud of you!

New Years Eve Family Trip to the Snow

2009-01-02T21:02:00.001-08:00

On New Years Eve, Dave and I decided to take the kids to the snow since he had the day off. We drove up Hwy 50 for about 25 miles towards Tahoe, and then took some side roads, and ended up in a place called "Ice House"....sounds cold to me!! We found this beautiful spot and it couldn't of been a more perfect day. It was sunny and warm actually. We only wore sweatshirts, well the kids and I did.

Daddy and Ryan.

Andalyn check'n out the snow.

Andalyn building a snow man...she had one ball with two sticks for arms and a small bundle of leaves for hair...so cute!

My two cute kids butts in the snow.

Ryan check'n out the snow.

We found this perfect spot for Andalyn to slid down ...it was just like a slide at the park. She loved it!

Here she is at the bottom waiting for her friend that she met at the snow. It was another 3 year old...they had a blast together sliding down the snow!

Here they are at the very top of this huge hill ready to go down on an intertube that this little girls family had. They were so nice. The girls did this over and over again until it was time to go. I'm sure this is one of many trips up to the snow this winter season...we had a great time!

Christmas Day 2008

2009-01-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
We had a wonderful Christmas...our morning started out with the kids coming downstairs and checking out what Santa brought them. Andalyn was very pleased to see that he brought her a computer, since that is what she is really into right now. She also thought it was pretty cool that she got a stocking full of candy and even more toys.
Ryan loved his little Piano along with the monster truck "grave digger" that Daddy...oh I mean Santa decided to pick up last minute. :)
The kids were pleased to see that Santa left them notes and ate their cookies that they left out!

The kids loot.

Andalyn so excited about her computer!

Once we were done looking at the presents from Santa we raced down to my parents house for my Dad's traditional Christmas Breakfast! Thank yo so much dad...you really do a great job every year! The kids, and even the big kids, got more presents from my parents and loved everyone of them. Thank you so much mom and dad!!

My two brothers David and Logan and my sister Whitney got up at like 4:30am Christmas morning to run up to the mountains to get a pile of snow so that we could all play in the snow after our morning festivities were over.

It was a blast....I wish I had gotten a video with my digital camera, because what I was getting on my video camera was hilarious!! Never a dull moment with the Petersen's!! Thanks guys for getting up so early and getting all of the snow....we may need to start making that a tradition. :)

During the snow ball fight that started shortly after we all got outside Andalyn stood top of the hill with out wavering!! She was the queen of the snow hill....and loving every minute of it!

Our little snow bunny Montana....what a cutie!!

It's snowing in Elk Grove...who knew?!?! No....I just happened to take a picture right as someone kicked a huge ball of snow into the air....great shot I must say! :)

Look at that face!!!....believe me it's hard to say no to this face!!

And look at this one...Dang we have cute kids!

Ryan and his Daddy enjoying watching the snow ball fight in front of Grandma and Grandpa Petersen's house.

Watch out Logan.....Andalyn's gonna get ya!!

Once we were all tuckered out from all of the fun in the snow we headed out to Dave's parents house for some more Christmas Day fun! I feel terrible, I didn't get any pictures taken while we were there. There was so many presents for our little family that I didn't have any extra hands to try and get any pictures. Between trying to help the kids open their presents and Dave and I trying to open ours....it was impossible. Dave's parents spoil us and the kids to the max every year. Thank you guys for all of the sweet gifts, they were all very thoughtful and wonderful!! Kathy even took Andalyn out a few days before Christmas so that she could get Dave, me and Ryan gifts! Do I have the most wonderful in-laws or what....no Kathy, I'm not just writing that because I know you read the blog! :) I really do believe I was not only blessed with incredible parents of my own, but I also ended up with some pretty amazing in-laws as well!

What seemed to be 1000 gifts later and a few pretty deep card board cuts on my fingers and thumbs... it was time for Christmas Dinner with the Cashdollar family!

We ended the night at my sisters house. My dad gave a little devotional. What a great way to end Christmas Day! Talking about and feeling the spirit of our Savior, whom is the reason for this wonderful Holiday Season.

Merry Christmas everyone...I hope you all had a wonderful one!

Christmas Eve 2008

2009-01-02T19:46:00.001-08:00

The Cashdollar's side enjoying Christmas Eve!!

Our Christmas Eve Started about 2pm that day. The kids and I headed over to Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollar's for some Christmas Cookie baking. Dave had to work until about 4pm so he ended up meeting us at his parents house to enjoy the fruits of our labors. :)

Andalyn LOVES to bake with her Grandma. She did just about everything to make these sugar cookies, with some direction from Grandma of course. She rolled out the dough, cut the shapes out, and here she is sprinkling them with different colored sprinkles. She is a great baker!

The Petersen/McFadyen side enjoying Christmas Eve!!

Once we were done eating a wonderful Dinner with Dave's Parents, we headed to my Uncle Bruce's (my mom's brother) for the traditional Christmas Eve bash that I have grown up going to my entire life. It is so much fun to now pass these things on to our children all along creating our own traditions also.

My sweet sister Nicole wishing everyone a Merry Christmas with Dave's Santa hat on. What a cutie!!

Ryan, checking out my Aunt Carla...She passed, he loved her!

My cousin Mallory getting ready to narrate our traditional Nativity reenactment.

The grand kids acting out their parts in the Nativity.

All the girl cousins that were there that night...we missed those that weren't there with us!!

Now it's off to our homes to wait for Santa!! Goodnight...

Our Gingerbread House Making Fun!

2009-01-02T19:41:00.001-08:00

For the 2nd year in a row, my sweet mother-in-law has provided us with all of the things needed for gingerbread house making fun! Andalyn really has enjoyed getting into the holiday spirit this year. She really is loving all that this time of year has to offer. She and I sat down the day before Christmas eve to make our gingerbread house. She had a blast....she said that the candies were the gingerbread houses Christmas lights. Oh how this girls loves Christmas lights. As you can see the house turned out great and Andalyn enjoyed every minute of it. Now, who's going to eat this thing...any takers? It's huge!!

Christmas Letter 2008

2008-12-21T13:25:00.000-08:00

Our Dearest Family and Friends,

We hope this letter find you all well. As a family we want all of you to know how much we love and appreciate you. And wish you a very Merry Christmas. This time of year is a wonderful time to reflect on the last 12 months and realize how truly blessed we all are. For us, we started the year 2008 as a family of 3 but very quickly became a family of 4. On January 25, 2008 we welcomed our sweet baby boy Ryan Braxton into our family. He has brought us all so much joy and happiness. Andalyn absolutely loves being a big sister, and is very good at it. She is always making sure she knows where he is and that he is ok.

We also started out this year living with my wonderful In-laws in Folsom California! They were gracious enough to let us live with them for about 9 months when we moved back from New Mexico, spanning between 2007 to 2008. We want to take this opportunity to let them know what a huge blessing they are in our lives. They are some of the most selfless people we know, and are so lucky to have them in our lives!

We moved out of their home in April of this year, just up the hill from Folsom to El Dorado Hills. We absolutely love El Dorado Hills. It is so beautiful up here. One of Courtney, Andalyn and Ryan's favorite things to do in the mornings once Dave leaves for work, is to look out our front window and watch all of the squirrels climb up and down the trees and across the rocks. We also love to watch all of the different types of birds who come to visit our trees and yard.

Dave is still employed with Verizon Wireless and really enjoys it. We are so blessed to have Dave work for a company that takes such great care of us! He manages a retail store in Placerville California which is about another 15-20 miles up the road from El Dorado Hills. Dave works really hard and has a very abnormal schedule. He does whatever it takes to make sure that Courtney and the kids are taken care of. We are so blessed to have him!

Courtney is enjoying staying home with Andalyn and Ryan. Adding Ryan to the mix in January was a little rough in the beginning, however has turned out to make her life that much more fulfilling. Andalyn and Ryan are her pride and joy, and with Dave, want nothing more then then for them to be happy, healthy and to know the joys of the gospel. Courtney also keeps her self busy by having play dates with other families including her sister Stacy. Stacy just moved up here with her Husband Marc and Daughter Montana about 6 months ago. Courtney loves living with in 2 miles of her sister!! They stay very busy. :)

Andalyn has grown leaps and bounds this year. She began this year as a sweet little toddler and she's ending it as a very confident 3 year old little girl. This girl never ceases to amaze Dave and Courtney. She knows her ABC's and is working on learning the sounds they make. She knows all of her colors and has for over a year now. She can count to 20, and can have a full blown conversation with you. Everyday our jaws drop with what this girl comes up with.

Ryan has grown so fast...we can't believe that he will be one year old very soon! This year has flown by. He started out as this itty bitty thing and now he is a 24 pound cuddle bug. If you know Ryan, you know the second you hold him, he wraps his arms around your neck and gives you a big squeeze. It is the best feeling getting a hug from such a sweet baby boy. He is saying mama and dada, and is very close to walking. He also just learned how to feed himself cheerios and crackers about a month ago. We love watching the world through his eyes.

This year has been full of ups and downs for the Cashdollar family. We know we are so blessed to have each other and the restored gospel in our lives. We hope that this season finds all of you happy healthy and blessed. Let us all remember that the Savior is the reason we celebrate this time of year.

With love and warm wishes,
Dave, Courtney, Andalyn & Ryan Cashdollar

My Brother Logan got his Mission Call!!!

2008-12-21T13:00:00.000-08:00

Logan has been called to the Canada Calgary Mission!! He reports to the MTC in Provo, UT on April 1st...and that's no joke! :)

After what seemed like 100 people gathering at my parents house about 9:30 pm last night Logan opened his mission call and read it so everyone could hear. You could tell by the look on his face that he was proud and knew that, that is where he should go. The funny thing is that all of us guessed where he would be going and he himself guessed Canada. I guess when it's meant to be it's meant to be! I took a lot of pictures last night but left my camera at my parents house. I'll post pictures of him and the "gathering of nations" at my parents house from last night when I get it back. CONGRATULATIONS LOGAN!! We are so proud of you! The Lord is so pleased to have you as a full time missionary to bring the gospel to those in Calgary!! I love you bud!!

Ahh...the joy lights can bring!

2008-12-17T13:46:00.000-08:00

Andalyn LOVES Christmas lights!! It has been her favorite thing about this season so far. For that reason, Dave and I decided to take the kids to "Dove Wood Ct.". It is a very popular Court in Orangevale that the whole street goes ALL OUT...I mean, they don't leave anything untouched!! For those of you who want a great family activity that is FREE it is worth the drive! It is off of Madison Ave and Walnut.

Once we got there, we parked the car, bundles the kids up and walked around Dove Wood Court.

Andalyn and Daddy! They are quite a pair.

Andalyn with the Christmas penguin.

Little Ryan enjoying the lights...sorry about the pink stroller buddy.

My super cute kids enjoying all of the decorations.

Andalyn found some Dancing snowmen and decided to join them...

Here is a video of her moves with the snowmen...

Along with all of the festive lights and decorations, there is a house that focuses on our Saviors birth. I was so proud that Andalyn knew who all of the statues were in the Nativity!

Some people go way over the top...but we really enjoy it. This video is an example of that! This is set up in someones garage!!

We ended the night with some yummy hot chocolate...one of my favorite things about this time of year.

Andalyn with her hot chocolate not to mention a chocolate face.

We had such a great time....and it's all that Andalyn can talk about....so guess where we are going again tonight...yep to Dove Wood Court, see you there!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOGAN!!

2008-12-15T16:38:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear "Ogie"
Happy Birthday to you!!

It was my brother Logan's Birthday yesterday. He turned 19. Needless to say we are so proud of him and his decision to serve his Heavenly Father on a full time mission. We are awaiting his call....any day now! He is a wonderful brother! I love him so much! However I can't help but think of him as that sweet little 2 year old that would recite the phrase that Indigo Montoya would say in Princess Bride:
"Hello my name Indigo Montoya, you killed my Father, prepare to die." I know sounds a little strange...but he is known for that in all his sweetness of being a 2 year old saying those words. Priceless!
We love you Logan...we hope you had a wonderful birthday!!

Our visit to Santa...

2008-12-15T11:54:00.000-08:00

On Friday night I took the kids to Elk Grove to attend my parents ward Christmas party. Dave was working....we missed you honey!! Santa was going to be there and I wanted to make sure that we got the kids pictures taken with Santa this year. Last year Dave actually played Santa at my parents ward Christmas party. Andalyn still was freaked out when I went to put her on his lap. She was barley 2 years old so we thought if when she was on his lap he could say "see baby it's just daddy" well for 1 that didn't work at that moment as you can see below, I had to sit on his lap first (8 months pregnant!!)...and 2 she hasn't forgotten that daddy was "Santa" So this year I wanted to make sure she knew Daddy wasn't Santa.

Andalyn and Montana not love'n Santa! last year!

"Santa", Mommy and Andalny barley tolerating Santa last year.

After some talks and seeing Santa on Friday night I think Andalyn is over the "Daddy is Santa" phase...poor thing, we work so hard to get her to believe in Santa and that he's not Daddy....just to tell her later in life she was right all along. :)

Ryan had no problems sitting on Santa's lap...I had him go first so that Andalyn would see that it was ok, cause the second she saw him she was scared. Here is how Ryan's turned out...

And here is Andalyn's....at least she didn't require me to sit on his lap first...this Santa wasn't my husband. :)

We had a lot of fun....thank you mom and dad for always including us in your ward Christmas parties. It's hard to go to my own wards Christmas party and tackle my kids by myself since Dave works on weekends.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

Christmas Caroling at Shriners Hospital

2008-12-12T12:44:00.000-08:00

My sister Tiffany...

This last Wednesday night we went Christmas Caroling at the Shriners Hospital in Sacramento with my family and their young men and women from their ward. It was a wonderful experience. It was great to get together as a family and do something of service during this Christmas season. However, what made it very personal was that my sister Tiffany has been a Shriners patient since she was an infant. As many of you know my twin sisters Tiffany and Nicole were adopted into our family when they were babies....officially at 2 years of age. It's a very long WONDERFUL story and if you would like to know the whole story let me know and I will tell you. But for sake of this not being a book of a post...my sisters were born to a biological mother who had little to no prenatal care and had abused many substances while pregnant. Needless to say we are very lucky to have these beautiful healthy girls in our lives. Both however, have lasting affects of what this women has done.

Tiffany being a patient of Shriners, is due to her uneven in length legs and being born with her hip sockets never forming. She has had many surgeries at Shriners free of charge which is very appreciated and thought of as a huge blessing!! Tiffany is one of my Hero's!! She has endured so much pain in her young life.

So my family wanted to show how appreciative we were of Shriners by caroling to their patients. As I looked at the kids and their families watch us sing to them, I couldn't help but feel emotions felt when Tiffany was there....and knowing a lot of these kids have it way worse off then Tiffany did....and on top of that they are going to spend their Christmas in a hospital. I hope all of us really count our blessings this holiday season! There are so many who have hardships and trials above and beyond our own.

Now....any of you who know the Petersen's know that it is always a party when we get together...this wasn't any acception. Here are some fun pictures I was able to take.

Here is my Andalyn Belle playing with the stuffed animals that they had under their Christmas tree in the lobby of the hospital.

Here is our "double trouble" Andalyn and Montana hugging the elf's that were pulling Santa's sleigh in the lobby.

Ryan and his "Drama" as Andalyn would say.

Ryan and his "Drampa"

Ryan and his Uncle Logan....who is getting his mission call any day now!!!

Ryan and my Aunt Jean....it was so good to see you there!!

Dave and I after the caroling was over. We may have to make this a family tradition....Service always brings more happiness to this time of year!!

Sesame Street Live

2008-12-06T15:50:00.000-08:00

This last Wednesday my Mother-in-law took the kids and I to "Sesame Street Live" at the Memorial Auditorium. It was so much fun!! The kids LOVED IT! Even Ryan sat threw 90% of the show with out so much as a peep other than out of excitement! Andalyn was in 7th heaven holding on to her "Zoe" stuffed animal Grandma got her while watching the show! Grandma also got Ryan his own little "Elmo" to keep him company during the show.

Here are some of the Characters in the show....they did such a great job!

Andalyn with "Zoe"!

Mommy with her little ones, and their friends "Zoe" and "Elmo".

Ryan and mommy waiting for the show to start.

This was parked outside...Andalyn went nuts when she saw it...."There they are.....there they are" she exclaimed!!

After the show we met Grandpa Cashdollar at the "Old Spaghetti Factory" in Folsom for some yummy lunch! Andalyn really enjoyed her spaghetti.

Thank you Kathy for such a fun day....we love spending time with you!

A Maad Tea Party!

2008-11-30T16:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my mother-in-law took Andalyn and I to "A Maad Tea Party" in El Dorado Hills. We had our own little quaint tea party! It was so much fun. We all got to wear hats and eat our little sandwiches and treats....oh and of course sip our tea. Andalyn looked like such a little lady. For a 3 year old she was so good in a place that almost everything was breakable. :) We got threw our little tea party with only a couple spills and lots of smiles. Thanks Kathy for such a fun time!!

Our baby girl turned 3!! Happy Birthday Andalyn!!

2008-11-29T15:26:00.000-08:00

Dear Andalyn,

You are our sweet baby girl....and always will be. We can't believe you are three! You are getting to be such a big girl. You can do so many things all by yourself and continue to try new things everyday. We can't help to think, when we look at your sweet face, of the day 3 years ago when you came into our little family. It was November 27, 2005, mommy had been very sick during the last 6 weeks of her pregnancy and was induced to make sure you and mommy stayed healthy. You came to us on Monday night November 28th at 9pm. You were a month early and weighed 6 pounds 1 ounce. From the instant that we saw you we fell in love with you. Although you had some problems the first couple hours after you were born, you came to be by mommies side at 11:30 that night never to leave again. You were so beautiful...mommy made sure you had all of your fingers and toes. Made sure you had your cute little ears and then spend most of that night just staring at you. Daddy and Mommy haven't stopped since. You are such a good little girl and you have surprised us everyday the last 3 years with how fast you can learn and grow. Your little eyes shine with the light of Christ and daddy and mommy count you and your brother our most treasured gifts from our Heavenly Father!! We love you sweetheart and will always be here for you whether you are 3 or 33....Age will never change the fact that you are our baby girl!!

Love always,

Mommy and Daddy!!

ANDALYN'S 3RD BIRTHDAY PARTY WUBBZY STYLE

A week before Andalyn's birthday we threw here a Wow Wow Wubbzy Birthday party. It is one of her favorite shows on Nick Jr. There isn't too many Wubbzy party supplies out there so we had to get creative. My mother in law got a plain white cake from Sam's Club and I decorated it. I was really nervous at first but I think it turned out pretty good. :)

One of Wubbzy's favorite things are "doodleberries" so we had the kids pick "doodleberries" off the wall for their first wubbtastic game. So with their baskets in hand...the kids raced to see who could get the most berries.

For their next game they played pin the tail on Wubbzy....this is what Wubbzy looked like once the kids were done. :)

Andalyn is so lucky to have so many people that love her. Our friends and family brought so many sweet gifts! Here Andalyn is opening a Disney Princess bedding set that her Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollar got her. I don't think it's a coincidence that she is sleeping through the night now without a peep! She loves her princesses!!

I saw this hat on a Wubbzy blog site that took me to a women's blog that hand makes these hats! Isn't it adorable!? It was only $18. If you are interested you can go to her blog http://hottophats.blogspot.com/ she has a variety of hats that she does.

Then it was time to sing to Andalyn, it was so cute she got so shy and embarrassed when everyone started singing. I guess to a 3 year old 35 people in one room singing to you is a bit overwhelming. :) Thanks Uncle Logan for holding the cake. :)

Once all of the planned activities were done...kids being kids...made up their own game. Throw rocks in the pond. As Andalyn would call it nutty nut toss. (From the Wubbzy show)

It was such a fun day...thank you to all of you that came to Andalyn's party. She loved having everyone there! HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANDALYN!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-28T10:32:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year. It gives everyone a chance to really reflect on the things that we are thankful for!! As Dave and I were driving from My parents house in Elk Grove where we had our Thanksgiving feast, to my in-laws home in Folsom where we would end our holiday with some yummy homemade pies....he asked me what are the top 5 things I am thankful for. I thought I would share....now they aren't any spectacular things...but it is truly what I am thankful for.

1. My Husband Dave:
Although as married couples do....Dave and I have had some ups and downs in the last 4 1/2 years....I can not imagine my life without him. He is my everything. The only word I can think of when I think of him and what he means to me is......my SAFE place. I feel incredibly safe with him. I trust him with all of my heart. I know that he would do anything for me or our kids. With that being said...I am so thankful for the ups and downs of marriage because if we didn't have those, I know I would not be at this place in my life and feel the way I do about my husband. Dave knows that feeling "safe" is A #1 in my book....and to me honey....you are that safe place for me. I love you!

2. My Kids, Andalyn and Ryan:
I eat, sleep and breath my kids as mothers do. Sometimes that can be wonderful and sometimes it can be a lot to handle. However when I look at my kids and remember where they came from and how uniquely special they are....I fall in love with them as if it was the day I gave birth to them. Nothing will ever take those moments away and for that I am eternally grateful!!

3. Our extended family:
Family means the world to me!! Those who know me well, knows that I am so happy to be back in California....although we only spent a year and a half in Albuquerque, I still was ready to come home. I find such strength in being around my family and my in-laws. I love them all so much! They have been such huge supports to us in every aspect of life. There is nothing like the love of a family.

4. Dave's Job:
If it wasn't for Dave's job with Verizon Wireless we would not have the opportunity for our kids to grow up with there mommy at home. This may not be on everyone's priority list and that's ok...but for us is was. Both of us were so blessed to have mothers who stayed home with us while we were kids. For this we are eternally grateful to our mothers. For that reason we felt it was so important to provide that to our kids. Not only that, but Dave's job provides us with the means we need to live comfortably and have the necessities of life. Thank you honey for working so hard and such long, funky hours! :)

5. A roof over our heads:
I know this one kida fits in with the last one...but when I think about how lucky I am to have a roof over our heads and a bed to put my kids down every night in. I feel incredibly blessed because I know that not everyone is so lucky. I am thankful for a roof that doesn't leak if the weather is bad. I am also thankful for walls that allow us to dwell in a safe place where my children feel loved and where the spirit can be felt.

I hope all of you, even though it is a few days past thanksgiving can dwell and ponder on the thinks you are thankful for even the most simplest of things.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

The Rewards of Facebook!

2008-11-28T10:20:00.000-08:00

If you haven't joined facebook, you should definitely think about it. I have gotten in contact with so many people that I have unfortunately lost contact with through the years. I was able to meet up for lunch with my dear friend Rachel Iuli this last Monday. She and I worked together when I was 18 at Stockmans Bank. We became instant friends. Wow...I just realized, we have been friends for 10 years now...gosh time flys! Anyway....we lost contact about 4 years ago. Needless to say I was so excited when I saw that she found me on facebook! She has since moved to San Diego gotten married, and is 4 months pregnant with her first baby! We chatted for over 3 hours about our lives and how grateful we were to have gotten back in contact. I love you Rach...and look forward to seeing you at Christmas time!

www.facebook.com

Fun with the Webb's

2008-11-19T14:34:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago we spend some time with Kristina and her boys. We had so much fun...I love seeing Kristina. I sometimes can't believe it has been friends for 15 years. Gosh, that makes me feel old. It is so nice to know that our friendship will always be one I can count on! Here is her little guy Rowan going down the slide with Andalyn. Our kids have so much fun together!

Here's my little guy having a blast on the swings! I know he is mine....but dang he is cute!! :)

I wish I had taken more pictures, but we were having so much fun I didn't get a chance. We had so much fun with you Kris....can't wait to see you this weekend!!

Opening Night

2008-11-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

I am so excited I can't hardly stand it...I just got Dave and I tickets for the midnight showing on Thursday for Twilight!! I have a feeling this movie will make some history at the box office seeing as the soundtrack is already topping the charts. Who is as excited as I am??

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL MY GIRLS!!

2008-11-11T17:17:00.000-08:00

Montana Belle turned 2 on November 9th. Stacy and Marc threw her an awesome Snow White Birthday Party!

Here she is enjoying her yummy cupcake.

What a cutie!!

My sisters Tiffany and Nicole turned 12 on November 10th. The whole family enjoyed celebrating their birthday at Johns Incredible Pizza in Roseville. It was a blast!!

Sam celebrated her 19th Birthday with us on November 10th at Johns Incredible Pizza too!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL MY GIRLS!! We love you and hope you had wonderful days!!

Petersen Family Disneyland trip October 2008

2008-11-06T08:30:00.001-08:00

This past week my side of the family took a trip to Disneyland. My brother Logan will be putting his mission papers in very soon, so we wanted to take a family trip to Disneyland in his honor.

Logan with the "L" from California Adventure.

Logan and his girlfriend Sam.

There were 17 people in all that went on our "little" trip. :) This included my parents, all of the Petersen kids, spouses, grandchildren, 2 girlfriends and a good friend. It was so much fun, and you would think that with that many people it would of been difficult maneuvering around the park....but to our pleasant surprise, it worked out great. We all stayed at the Anaheim Fairfield Inn by Marriott. It was across the street from Disneyland. We didn't use our car the whole time we were there. It was great. We got some great rates too because we reserved our rooms so far in advance. We all spend two fabulous days running around the park, hopping on all the rides we could all along enjoying each others company.

Being the last week in October the park was all decked out with Halloween decorations.

My sweet parents with the Mickey Mouse pumpkin.

When Dave and I arrived Sunday night he wasn't feeling well and was tired from driving all day. So I took the kids across the street to Downtown Disney just to walk around the shops and hang out and that gave Dave time to sleep off the drive. The first thing that Andalyn saw was the HUGE candy corn that had taken the place of the A's in the word California in front of California Adventure. So of course I parked the stroller in front of it to snap a picture.

After walking around Downtown Disney and meeting up with Marc, Stacy and Montana, it was time to head back to meet up with the rest of our family. We all got a good nights rest and were ready for a fun filled Monday.

Dave and I took the kids to Millie's Restaurant for breakfast which was located right in front of the hotel....totally convenient! Here Andalyn is working on stacking up all of the creamers that were on the table. She did a great job.

Once we got into the park...the picture taking began. From Left to right: Andalyn, my sister Tiffany, Logan's girlfriend Sam, my sister Whitney, David's girlfriend Ashley and my sister Nicole.

Andalyn and Ryan road around in a double jogger that we borrowed from my cousin Brittany, however the second we got into the park Andalyn wanted to jump out...I should have expected that. So we threw her "backpack" a.k.a. leash on her and she started marching around the park.

This being Andalyn's first trip to Disneyland, she was very excited.

Dave and I headed straight to the "Pooh" ride for the kids first Disneyland ride experience. At first Andalyn didn't like it because it was dark but by the 2nd day she was used to all the rides being dark and she tolerated it pretty well. At the end she always said...."I WANT TO DO THAT AGAIN."

In honor of that being Andalyn and Ryan's first ride at Disneyland we let Andalyn pick out a stuffed animal at the "Pooh" store right outside the ride. She chose a baby Piglet, so therefore we picked out a baby Tigger for Ryan. They absolutely love them!

Andalyn and Ryan waiting to get onto the Pooh ride.

Andalyn's and Ryan's ride experience...

The ride leads to a surprise birthday party for Pooh.

Next it was Pirates of the Caribbean...the whole Petersen Clan got on this ride. It was really sad because at this point Andalyn still wasn't loving the darkness in the rides. I was also surprised that Ryan really didn't enjoy it either...at one point Ryan clawed his way to Dave from my lap to bury his face in Dave's chest. Cute pictures though. :)

We then went on the Buzz Lightyear ride...it was an interactive ride, you got to shoot laser guns at targets. Very Cool.

Andalyn and Montana holding hands waiting in line to get on the ride.

Ryan and his little green friend.

One of Andalyn's favorite rides was the Monsters Inc. ride. She has never seen the movie but still loved all the "friendly" monsters.

Grandma Petersen, Andalyn and Mommy on the ride.

She has the same look on her face as the monster above. :)

We also made a stop at "A Bugs Life" area. We went on a few rides and also went to the 3D show. Andalyn didn't like the show. In fact she cried....but that is the only thing she ever cried over as far as rides or shows go. I was impressed.

Here we are on the Bugs Life hot air balloon ride.

On Tuesday we tried to go have lunch with the Princesses. However, it didn't work out so with the time that Dave and I had with the kids we decided to take them to the Playhouse Disney Show. By far one of Andalyn's favorite things we did there....besides taking pictures with some princess that we did see later on in the day. Andalyn was in 7th heaven between Playhouse Disney and Princesses.

Andalyn waiting in line to see the show.

Andalyn and Daddy waiting anxiously for the show to start.

Mickey and all his friends from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

Handy Manny and his tools.

The Little Einsteins and Rocket.

Ryan totally diggin' the show.

Darby, Tigger and Pooh in the 100 acre wood

Mickey and friends throwing Minnie a surprise birthday party.

So, like I said, we did end up finding a place in Fantasy Land that we could mingle with the Princesses. Andalyn was star stuck. Her whole demeanor changed, she was in heaven! Poor Andalyn, it was so hot both days we were there and she doesn't handle heat very well. That's why she is so red faced.

Andalyn and Snow White.

Andalyn Belle with Belle.

My mom Eileen Belle, Andalyn Belle and Montana Belle with Belle. Both Girls are named after my mom.

Andalyn with Sleeping Beauty.

Andalyn LOVED all the Characters at the Park, Dave and I were pleasantly surprised. We thought she would be afraid of them. Here are the ones we met.

Here we are with Goofy in his Halloween costume in the heart of Disneyland.

We found Goofy again in Toon Town.

Pluto was the first on Andalyn met....she loved him!

She had to pet his nose before we left, just like she would any other dog....so cute.

Andalyn and Minnie.

One of my favorite rides form the last time I went which was before my brother David left for his mission was Soarin' Over California. Well it was one of the only rides I went on because on the way to Disneyland in May of 2005 I got a phone call with the result of a pregnancy test…positive. I was pregnant with Andalyn and therefore couldn’t really go on any rides other then Soarin'.

Here are the boys being silly...from left to right, Marc Stacy's husband, my brother Logan, my brother David and David's friend Kurtis.

All of us waiting in line for Soarin'.

Here is my sweet blue-eyed girl waitin in line for the carousel with her Mickey Pumpkin ears on. I love this picture, thanks Stacy for capturing it!!

Here she is on her purple horse.

Here's Andalyn with my sister Stacy, her husband Marc and daughter Montana on the horses.

Continuing our way around Fantasy Land we found the Sword and the Stone right by the carousel. Here is uncle David with Andalyn while she tries to pull the sword out of the stone.

My brothers Logan and David with the sword and the stone.

Now David's friend Kurtis takes a shot at it.....I don't think it is even budging Kurtis!! :)

Next it was on to the Dumbo Ride. Grandpa Petersen got to take Andalyn on this one...she had such a great time.

Here I am with Ryan on Dumbo, he really liked it too!

Everytime we watch a Disney movie she thinks the castle it self is Disneyland....so when she saw it was so much more she was so excited. She still really loves the castle though.

Me and my sister Whitney waiting in line for the Toy Story ride....I love this chick!!

Here I am with my sweet girl with our 3D glasses on ready for the Toy Story ride.

My brother David and his girlfriend Ashley....oh and that's my other brother Logan in the back ground....what a goof. :)

Stacy, me and Whitney waiting for the drop in Tower of Terror.

Whitney, me and Stacy at Tower of Terror.

Here we all are on the Tower of Terror ride. We are in the very back row. Yes, my brother and Ashley are kissing. :)

Here is Logan's sweet girlfriend Sam with my sweet boy.

Andalyn and Montana enjoying the jogger together.

Uncle David with Ryan on his shoulders. Everyone took turns holding Ryan...it was great and he loved it!!

Our friends Dusty and Melissa Hogge met up with us while we were there...I didn't get any pictures of them except their oldest daughter with my sisters. Sorry guys...it was so good to see you, can't wait for you to move back up to Sac!

Here are my kids....they got so tuckered out running around the park all day. My sweet angels.

My sweet twin sisters, Tiffany and Nicole.

Here is David and his sweet girlfriend Ashley....so glad you could come Ashley!

The original Petersen clan. From Left to right...Logan, me,Nicole, Whitney, My mom, Tiffany Whitney, my dad, Stacy and David......LOVE YOU GUYS!!

All good things must come to an end....Wednesday morning we left Disneyland....hopefully we can all go back soon.

Here is Tinker Belle thanking us for our visit.

Me and my honey on our way home.

Littly Ry Guy happy as can be in his seat on the way home.

Our sweet Andalyn Belle watching her "shows" on the way home.

On our way home we got a chance to meet up with one of Dave's college roommates....Randal was also in our wedding in 2004. We met up with him, his sweet wife Ambrea and their two adorable kids Brigham and Ammon. What a beautiful family!

This is Ryan in his high-chair at the restaurant, so tired from the last two days and time spent in the car....so funny.

Me, my two cuties and Ambrea and her two cuties Brigham and Ammon.

Now it'sthe daddy's turn...Dave and the kids and Randal and the kids.

Last but not least this sweet woman in this picture with Dave and Andalyn is Randal's Grandmother, Ruth Banagas. She and her husband retired from Disneyland 12 years ago. She was nice enough to meet us at the gates of Disneyland both days we were there and get Dave and I in for free. It's not a secret that October was the worst month in our whole marriage, financially. And without Ruth, (and another very special person whom I won't name because they're very private) we were able to take this trip with my family. To be honest this trip was more likley NOT going to happen then happen just 2 weeks before.

So thank you Ruth and our very special relative who made this trip possible and unforgettable! We love you!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-04T09:12:00.000-08:00

This Halloween was so much fun. We started out with a soup and corn bread feast at Stacy and Marc's house. My Parents and my twin sisters Tiffany and Nicole came up from Elk Grove for the get together. My cousin's Brittany, Sharsten and their kids which are on my mom's side of the family joined us as well, along with my other cousin Brian from my Dad's side and his wife Jamie and their son who live in Utah. Brian was down in Sacramento on a Business Trip and brought the family along. Once everyone was there we had quit the party going. Once we all ate we ventured out on our Trick or Treating adventure in the rain. The kids didn't care about the rain, they were great. Andalyn was a great trick or treater....every door she said "trick or treat" and once they put the candy in her pumpkin bucket she said..."Thank You, Happy Halloween. ADORABLE!!

Here is my little Dragon

Here is my sweet little Kitty.

Andalyn the kitty, Breaden as Buzz (Brian and Jamies son) and Montana as Snow White.

Most of our Trick or Treaters.

My sister Nicole the witch with Andalyn and Montana. I didn't get a picture of Tiffany my other sister, Nicole's twin for some reason. She made a dang cute Doctor.

My other brothers and sister went to another Halloween party but I had to include them on this post. They all made their costumes and did a great job.

My brother David and Buzz and his Buddy Kurtis who is living at my parents and just adds to the fun.

Here is the whole Toy Story gang. My brother Logan and his girlfriend Sam were the banoculers, my sister Whitney was the Pink Haired Troll and of course Buzz and Woddy. We all had just gotten back from Disneyland (I'm working on that very long post) the week of Halloween and we went on the Toy Story Ride a lot. They all loved it. I'm sure that is were their inspiration came from. Great job guys on your costumes!! Love ya!

I hope all of you had a Happy Halloween!!

Our Chucky Cheese Visit with Jamie & Braeden

2008-11-04T07:39:00.000-08:00

This past week my cousin Brian came out on a business trip to Sacramento and brought his family along so they could spend Halloween together. While Brian was working we got to spend some time with his wife Jamie and their 2 1/2 year old son Braeden. Brian and Jamie are expecting their second baby boy in February. We had only met Jamie and Breaden once before about 2 years ago, so It was nice to be able to get to know them better. After spending some time together on Thursday we decided to take the kids to Chucky Cheese on Friday (Halloween) for lunch. It was a lot of fun, Myself, my kids, my sister and Montana and my other cousins wife Heather that lives in the area, along with Jamie and Braeden all went to Chucky Cheese. Brian had told her that morning to pay for lunch which was so sweet. Thank you so much you guys we had such a great time and the pizza was great! Here are some pictures from our fun times at Chucky Cheese.

Jamie & Braeden

The Girls and Braeden enjoying lunch.

Andalyn enjoying her pizza.

Braeden riding the Barney ride.

Montana playing in the play structure.

Stacy helping Ryan go down the slide.

Heather and Ryan enjoying each other company while the other kids play.

Andalyn giving Bob the Builder some "Luvs"

...and then it was Barney's turn.

Andalyn and Braeden cimbing up the slide.

The kids had a blast, and the girls enjoyed eachothers company, thanks again Brian and Jamie for lunch!!! We had a great time!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STACY!!!!

2008-10-21T08:36:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR STACY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!

It was one of my best friends birthdays on Sunday the 19th. My sister Stacy! She is the one person in my life that I feel like,we literally have been through EVERYTHING together. The bond I have with my sister is beyond words. I love her so much and am glad to call her my friend as well as my sister. I know not everyone can claim that with their siblings.

She is one of the most giving, gracious, spiritual, talented and beautiful people that I know. She is a wonderful wife and mother and of course a wonderful sister/friend. If you are lucky enough to know her, you know that she just lights up a room. I am so grateful for her and to her.

As a Petersen family we all got together on Sunday for Dinner, Cup cakes and fit in a nice FHE while we were at Stacy's. Stacy's husband Marc is a fabulous cook and he whipped up his very tasty chicken parmesan. It was wonderful. The Petersen clan always has a wonderful time together. I love that we can bust up laughing until we can't anymore. I also love that we can have beautiful spiritual conversations. We did both on Sunday which made for a very enjoyable time. We all love you Stace, I hope you had a wonderful Birthday!!

In loving memory of Ken Later. A friend, brother and son.

2008-10-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

(Ken on Left David on right)
I just wanted to pay tribute to a very special person. His name was Ken Later. He was one of my brother David's best friends. They spent most of their time together, whether it be working together, going to church activities or just hanging out. Ken was loved by all and obviously touched many peoples lives. He was taken from us early in a motorcycle accident late this last Saturday night. I don't feel it my place to give any details or answer any questions you might have. Just know that he was a very special spirit that was called home to serve his mission. Please keep Ken's family and friends in your thoughts and prayers as it is a very difficult time. I know they are all so grateful for this priceless gospel we have in our lives. To know that Ken is with our Heavenly Father and Savior...and that this wasn't good bye...I'm sure gives everyone great comfort.

Kenneth Kyle Later 9/11/84 - 10/19/08

For those of you who would like to go to his funeral it will be held at the Vintage Park Building located at: 8925 Vintage Park Dr. Sacramento, CA 95829. It will be at 11am on Friday.Morning 10/24/08.

Zittels Farm Trip

2008-10-21T07:52:00.001-07:00

Yesterday our little family went to Zittels Farm in Folsom to pick out a pumpkin or two to carve for Halloween. We had such a great time. They had tons of pumpkins and so many different kinds at that. It was the best pumpkin patch as far as selection goes I've been to, I highly recommend it. They have pony rides on the weekends and a landscape perfect for pictures. They had wagons that you can pull your kids in and put your pumpkins in while your at the Farm. Here are some fun pictures I got while we were there.

Ryan on Daddy's shoulder.

Andalyn in a tunnel they had with vines and flowers all over it.

"Look mommy I found one just my size."

My sweet girl.

My sweet boy.

Ryan enjoying his ride in the wagon.

This was our best attempt at a family picture. :)

Me and my sweetheart with a silly smile.

I love having days to just hang out with my little family. We have such a great time together.

Computer problems? What computer problems?

2008-10-20T20:20:00.001-07:00

As of this weekend our computer problems are no more. If I haven't said it before, I have wonderful in-laws. They are such a blessing in our lives on more levels than one level. I know I mentioned that we were having computer problems....well it just didn't work. And like I said despite all of my father-in-laws hard work it just kept having problem after problem. Well my in-laws played the computer fairy and surprised us with a new computer. We are so grateful to them. It is an amazing computer. I keep telling Dave how much I love it! So Bill and Kathy if you are reading this....THANK YOU SO MUCH!! This was an incredibly selfless gift among so many others that we can't not find the words to express how grateful we are to you, and how much we love you.

Computer problems and dead batteries.

2008-10-17T16:03:00.000-07:00

This past week has been both stressful and frustrating. Our computer is giving us nothing but problems. My poor father-in-law has tried everything to get it fixed...THANKS BILL! However despite all his hard work and long hours it is still giving us problems. Therefore I haven't wanted to download any of our photo's onto the computer. My luck, it would decided to erase them all! Also....even if I wanted to take some pictures and post some really current ones, I couldn't. The batteries in my camera have been dead for over a week and I keep forgetting to get some at the store. Oh and between both kids the last week or so, Dave and I haven't slept enough to keep us sane. We both are walking zombies. Enough with my poor me post. I guess I just needed to vent. :)

Other than that drama, our little family is doing well. We are getting ready to leave for Disneyland a week from this Sunday. We can hardly wait. We are going with my whole family. It will be so much fun. My brothers' girlfriend's, Sam and Ashley, are coming too. I know Sam knows how crazy our family can be....I guess Ashley is going to find out real soon! :) Disneyland here we come!

Some cute shots of my kids

2008-10-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

I found these pictures on my camera while I was posting for our trip to Apple Hill with Stacy and Montana and had to post them. Here is my sweet little smiley boy. He always is smiling and loves everyone. He is such a joy to be around!!

Here is my little blue eyed girl. She has her moments with this whole terrible two's and coming into the even more terrible three's but she is so sweet and loving. When she looks at you with these beautiful blue eyes you are reminded how special she is. I can see a light in her's and Ryan's eyes that I don't think I've everseen before. I'm sure all mothers can relate to me. These sweet little spirits were saved for these days for a reason. We can learn so much from them.

I wasn't really going in the "spiritual direction" with this post....all I was going to do was, just as the title says....post some cute pic's of my kids. But I just feel the spirit so much when I look at them and realize where they came from....and came from there not so long ago. I thank my Heavenly Father for my sweet little Angels!!

2nd trip to Apple Hill with Stacy and Montana

2008-10-01T16:44:00.000-07:00

We made our 2nd jont up to Apple this last Monday. Stacy and Montana were able to come with us, it was a lot of fun. We of course started our day at Hight Hill with the pony rides. Both Andalyn and Montana were excited for the upcoming ride. Andalyn hopped on like a pro, however poor Montana was pretty freaked out by the horse, not to mention the lady that ran the pony rides. She was able to ride for a short time with Stacy walking with her, but Montana didn't want anything to do with the pony's unless it was on the other side of the gate. :)

Here are the girls waiting for the ride.

Andalyn getting all strapped in.

Montana not too sure about this pony ride thing.

Montana defiantly not digg'n the ride on her pony "cowboy".

Andalyn and her pony "sparky".

Daddy and Andalyn saying hello to the ducks once again.

Andalyn and Montana enjoying the gorgeous weather while holding hands.

The Girls and The Ducks.

Dave, Andalyn and the beautiful view.

Andalyn and Montana in the pumpkin patch at High Hill...."Look I found a pumpkin just my size."

Daddy relaxing with Ryan in the shade by the pumpkin patch.

Stacy and I take'n a sister shot by the pumpkin patch.

We then headed to Able's Acres for some "apple treats" as we call them. Here is Montana and Ryan waiting in line to get some of those yummy "apple treats".

The girls swinging on the swing at Ables Acres eating apple donuts.

The girls posing with the Halloween ghosts.

Andalyn the pumpkin.

Andalyn the Halloween witch.

Like always we had a blast at Apple Hill and were so glad that Stacy and Montana were able to come with us.

Apple Hill

2008-09-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

One of the things that our little family did last year in the fall, almost every week, is go to Apple Hill. We love to take Andalyn there so she can ride the Horses at High Hill and then we head off to Able Acres or Honey Bear for "Apple Treats". We took our first trip of the season yesterday. We spent our time at High Hill riding horses eating fudge and sitting by the pond. Here are a few pictures of our fun trip...

Pony Rides

Ryan watching his sister on the pony ride

The pond and the ducks

Our friends the ducks...

Andalyn and the Duck go way back. Here she is last year with the same duck as this year.
Fall 2007

Fall 2008

More fun times to come this fall at Apple Hill.

Out to Dinner with the Girls

2008-09-21T18:26:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to dinner with some friends. It was so nice to get out and hang with the girls. I got to see some friends I hadn't seen in a couple of years. We went to El Centro down town off of 27th and J Sreet. It was so good. I had a fish taco and a shrimp taco with some rice and beans. YUM!! We all talked and laughed. Thanks Kristina for inviting me!!

Whitney's Soccer Game

2008-09-21T18:09:00.001-07:00

My sister Whitney had a soccer game in Folsom this week, so of course the family headed to the field to support our fabulous soccer player. She is amazing!! She is a team captain and for those of you that know anything about soccer she made 1 of the 2 goals and it was a "corner kick goal". That is the hardest type of goal to make. She basically had to make the ball curve to make it into the goal. It was amazing, the crowed went wild! Andalyn was at her Grandma Cashdollar's having a blast so that's why she isn't in any of the pictures.

She's number 16, her coaches are in the blue

Here's Montana hang'n out at the game. Normally her and Andalyn are running around together while we watch the game. They both love going to the games!

Here's my brother Logan, his girlfriend Sam and my little guy Ryan.

Tiff, My mom and Sam watching the game.

I wish I got more pictures of everyone but I didn't get my camera out until the very end of the game. Anyway we love you Whit and great job on Saturday!!

Double Trouble in the Bath

2008-09-21T17:47:00.000-07:00

So the other night I decided to bath the kids at the same time. I thought I would put Ryan's little tub in the bathtub and have Andalyn sit in the remaining space in the bathtub. Well that didn't last too long. Andalyn wanted to get in Ryan's bath with him. There was a ton for splashing and before I knew it I was soaked and so was the floor. Could I have expected anything else? Probably not. :) All in all it was a blast for all of us.

Look at that face!!! What a heartbreaker!

My blue eyed girl!

He loves to chew on the wash cloth...don't worry it's clean. :)

I might start bathing them together more often they both LOVED it.

Mouth full of teeth

2008-09-21T17:42:00.000-07:00

So my little guy had a heck of a time last month when he got 4 teeth in 3 weeks. It was a rough time but we both got through it. :) Now it is so cute to see when he smiles and all you can see are teeth!! Here is a picture of my sweet little guy with a mouth full of teeth.

Fun with Kristina and her boys!!

2008-09-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

I have a few "best friends" in my life and they are ones I have had for years. Anna, Kristina and I were inseparable growing up in high school and I am so happy to say that we are all still in contact and still the closest of friends.

After saying that Kristina and her boys Rowan 3 years old and Grayson 2 years old came over for a play date last week. We had a great time. While the kids played we got to spend some time together just hang'n out. We then took the kids to Yogaberry. The kids had fun running around after they ate their yummy frozen yogurt. Her are a few cute pictures I got, I wish they "in action ones were better but they were all over the place having a great time. Never at one time could I get all 3 of them in the picture. :)

Andalyn and Grayson, aren't they just so dang cute!?

Rowan as sweet as can be.

Andalyn and Grayson running around the Yogaberry pole.

Andalyn and Rowan running around the beautiful courtyard outside of Yogaberry.

I wish I had gotten more of the kids that day but they had a blast. Thanks Kris for bringing the boys up. I am so glad that you are so close now! This will be one of many play dates! Love you girl!!

Long time, no blog....

2008-09-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well it has been a very long week or so. Andalyn came down with a nasty virus. She had a fever for 5 days and was pretty out for the count the whole time and a few days after. It was getting so bad the Dr. ordered for some lab work to be done. Luckily she is recovering well and is pretty much back to her old self. She still gets tired pretty easily, and still a little dehydrated. Since Friday she has had the go ahead from the Dr. to be around other kids and be out and about. I was so happy to hear that because both she and I were so ready to get out of the house. We met Stacy, Montana and Ryder (Sara Thomason's little boy) at Yogaberry, it's a delicious frozen yogurt place. My digital camera broke so all I have is my phone, this is the only picture I got but thought it was a keeper!!

Andalyn and her messy frozen yogurt face

Then on Saturday I took the kids to get their pictures taken. It is was about a month late for Ryan's 6 months photo's. I had taken them about 4 months ago to get pictures taken and they just didn't turn out all that great. So I wanted to get a picture of the two of them even though my main reason for going was for Ryan's milestone picture.

Here is how they turned out....
(sorry it's not too crisp of a picture, I took the picture of the picture with my cell phone)

Poor little guy was so tired. He is normally a very smiley baby! But I thought Andalyn looked so cute I couldn't pass on getting this one.

Here is the picture of Ryan I just loved, for his official 6/7 month old pictures.

(again a pic of a pic)

One more little update....Ryan has been army crawling for about 5 or 6 weeks now but he is really starting to crawl on his hands and knees more. He also has learned to pull him self up on things. Here he is standing by the couch. He gets so proud of him self, he gets a big smile on his face and starts giggling. Then looks at me to make sure I see what he has just accomplished. So cute!

Where has the time gone my little Man??? The last 7 months have gone by way to fast!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WHITNEY!

2008-09-03T08:35:00.000-07:00

My sister Whitney turned 15 on Monday. She is such an awesome girl! I love her so much! We have always had a wonderful relationship even though we are like 13 years apart. However, we definately became closer when she came out and visited me in New Mexico a few times. She helped me, when I was in my first trimester of my pregnancy with Ryan and pack up my house. She was such a life saver!! I wasn't feeling well most of the time, so having her there was a huge blessing!! We also squeezed in some fun times in the midst of packing a being pregnant. Thanks Whit for being there for me in New Mexico, I really needed you! oh fyi Dave was already in Cali so that's why he wasn't there to help. :)

Here's Whitney blowing our her candles on her cheese cake. And Andalyn beside her jumping up and down, she was so excited. She loves birthdays!

Here's the fam at Red Robin celebrating her birthday.

Whit and her friend Nikki at Red Robin.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WHIT!!! I LOVE YOU!!!!

Sisters night out....it's about time.

2008-08-30T14:43:00.001-07:00

So Stacy has been up here in El Dorado Hills for months now and we haven't had a chance to just hang out with out the kids. We both have had difficult times with our girls lately. Montana is starting with the terrible two's and Andalyn has hit an all time high in the realm of the terrible two's. So needless to say we both needed some time away, even if it was only for a couple of hours. So Stacy and I went to see Mamma Mia at 9:35pm last night. The kids were in bed and with the Daddy's at home to hold down the fort it was a perfect time to go. It was such a cute movie, cheesy at times, but hey it's a musical. On our way out of the theater we saw the poster for Twilight!! Stacy being the cute girl that she is, gave Edward a little kiss.

Go Team Edward!!!

Stace, I had so much fun hanging out...we will do it again soon! Love ya!!

I love these stickers!!!

2008-08-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

So ever since I got my Tahoe about 8 months ago I've wanted to get those little "family stickers" to put on the back window. Well I finally found some and put them on my car the other day! For anyone who wants some I found these at Target and it comes with 12 stickers: Mom, Dad 2 little girls, 2 little boys, 2 babies, 2 cats and 2 dogs. I guess they have thought of everything. :)

Aren't they cute? I loved these because Andalyn always has pig tails in her hair and I always have a pony tail. Perfect. :)

My little Helper

2008-08-29T17:23:00.002-07:00

We had some pizza making fun the other night. I asked Andalyn if she wanted to help and without a second of hesitation she said "YES, YES". Then ran and got a chair to stand on so that she could see over the counter. It was so much fun and the Pizza was great!! Who doesn't like Pizza!?

Play Date

2008-08-29T17:23:00.001-07:00

There is a sweet family in our new ward that has invited us over for a couple of play dates. Andalyn just loves it. Tamara is the mother and the two kids are Melody and Able. It's really cute, after the first play date, Tamara and I had talked about both of our Daughters and how they asked to have a play date again. This last time I brought my camera so I could capture the fun.

Andalyn and Melody

Ryan going through the snack tunnel.

Petersen Family Time

2008-08-25T11:45:00.001-07:00

This last Sunday Logan was ordained an Elder. We are so proud of him! He is such a wonderful young man, one who will serve the lord well in his up coming mission. He is very special and one that I am so proud to call my brother!

Logan and his sweet girlfriend Sam.

It was a Petersen family gathering as all special occasions are. We all met at the Vintage Park Building to attend the Elders Quarm in the Consumnes River Singles Branch. We had both family and close friends there. It was a wonderful blessing given by my dad with loves ones participating in the circle.

Once that was over we all headed to my parents house for a light dinner and visiting. My Grandma and Grandpa Petersen came down from Utah fort the occasion, so it was nice to spend some time with them and get some pictures with the great grand kids.

Grandma Petersen with all of the granddaughters and great granddaughters

Great Grandpa Petersen and Grandpa Petersen with my sweet little Ryan

Great Grandma Petersen with my sweet Andalyn Belle

Great Grandma Petersen with my Ryan Braxton

Here is a picture of my beautiful mother with Montana and Andalyn, they love their Grandma!

Stacy and Montana as we were all visiting outside my parents house.

Ryan's first taste of a plum....he LOVED it!!!

David's friend Ashley joined us for dinner and visiting.

Here's Dave and Logan driving in David's new toy

And, I couldn't not post this...he is just so dang cute!!!!

It was a great day all around!! I can't believe the next major event in our family will be Logan putting in his papers and getting his mission call. I love you Logan!!!

Lunch with Daddy

2008-08-25T11:41:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, we live in El Dorado Hills and Dave works in Placerville which is only about a 15-20 minute drive up the freeway. Andalyn LOVES to take the short trip to go up and see Daddy at work. Well, Last Wednesday Andalyn, Ryan and I went up to Placerville to see Dave. We went to lunch so we could spend some time with him. He closes on Wednesday nights so most of the time the kids are in bed before he gets home. Here is a super sweet picture of Andalyn and her Daddy at lunch.

My sleeping Angels

2008-08-15T18:49:00.001-07:00

One of Andalyn and Ryan's favorite things to do in the car is hold hands. Well, here they are on our way home from dinner, with the Cashdollar side of the family, both holding hands and they fell asleep that way...

A few cute shots of my kids...

2008-08-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

My little rough housers!!

Already they are wrestling! I didn't think this happened until Ryan could at least crawl or walk. But he loves it just as much as Andalyn does.

Ryan is super close to crawling. Here he is on his hands and knees rocking back and forth.

Here is my very studious little Andalyn

He loves this....he just laughs and laughs!!

I love my kids!

John's Incredible Pizza

2008-08-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been to this place in Roseville you are missing out! It is fabulous! It has things for adults and kids. Perfect family activity. Dave's parents took us there last Monday evening. You start out with an awesome buffet with salad, pasta's pizza's and desserts. You have your choice of like 5 different themed dinning rooms to eat in. Once you are done you go into the "arcade" area....but it's much more than an arcade! It has everything from games to rides. You win tickets with each game you play. Once you are done, depending on how many tickets you accumulated, you get prizes! Andalyn LOVES this place. This is our 3rd or 4th time going now. My family loves it too, we have done big Petersen's FHE's there.

Here is Andalyn on the play area for toddlers.

Ryan having a great time watching all of the lights and people around him.

Andalyn's version of playing this game

"Look at all the tickets I won daddy!!"

Anyway, it's a great place and a wonderful Idea for a night out with the family.

My sleepy boy

2008-08-09T21:45:00.000-07:00

If you have read the post below this one, this picture comes from the same day of cleaning my kitchen. I had turned on a show for Andalyn and put Ryan in his jumper so I could get the dishes done. Well I hear only the tv after a few minutes. I think to my self...."that isn't like my kids to make no noise at all" I go in there and Andalyn is being a little Angel, which has not been the case lately, but that's a whole different story, and this is how I found Ryan...

Poor thing, just zonked out in his jumper. I had no warning signs of him being so sleepy. But doesn't he look so sweet?? :)

Thousand Trails Camping

2008-08-04T16:24:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, Friday and Saturday we went camping at Thousand Trails, Lake of the Springs. I have been camping here with my family, and extended family since I was like 3 years old. Most of my memories of summers when I was little, take place at Thousand Trails. My cousins and I would have a blast playing together and spending all day at the beach4, I believe this is why we are all so close to this day. We spent all of our summers together.

I was so excited to take Dave and the kids there and show them "my camping grounds". When we arrived my aunt sue, my cousins Christy and her baby girl Izzy, Brittany and her 3 boys Briaten, Christian and Ashton, Sharsten and her sweet girl Eden, my mom and sisters Whitney, Nicole, Tiffany, and Stacy with Montana Belle where already at the site. We met them at the lake for the day. We spent about 2-3 hours at the beach. Andalyn was in heaven! She loves to swim and play in the sand. To be able to do that for hours on end just made her day!

Once we were done at the beach we headed to the campsite to set up our tent. A big thanks to Whitney and Dave for actually getting the tent up. We hadn't used it in like 4 years and I had every intention of setting it up before we left just to make sure we had all of the pieces, however ran out of time before we had to leave. Well when Dave and Whitney went to go set up the tent they found that most of the poles that hold the tent up where not attached where broken. With a lot of will power and duck tape they got it up. It was a little miss shaped however it served it's purpose.

For the next 2 1/2 days it was lots of sun sand and water.

Here are some pictures of all of the camping fun...

The beautiful view from the beach

all of the kids playing

my sweet girl

this is my favorite picture of Andalyn, she's in deep thought on the beach.

Andalyn going to fill her bucket up with water

"yeah, the water feels ok"

The girls

My two boys take'n a nap on the beach

Whit and Dave chatt'n...they're buds.

Eden showing us her swimming skills.

"But mom, I'm trying to build a sand castle, don't tell me to say cheese again!"

Our little fish, Tiffany.

Montana not wanting to wear the life jacket.

Nicole and Andalyn play'n in the sand.

Andalyn burring grandma's feet in the sand.

Montana and Andalyn chill'n at the camp site.

Dave and Whitney on the bumper boats.

Andalyn and Montana playing Rodeo with the inflatable alligators. It looks like Montana got bucked off. :)

We love you thousand Trails!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Dave!! We love you!!

2008-07-29T19:44:00.000-07:00

Monday July 28th was Dave's 32nd birthday. This year Dave made it really easy on me and planned his whole birthday months ago. He decided he wanted to go see Paramore in concert at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno Nevada. He then planned for us to stay overnight at the resort, this way we didn't have to drive the 2 hours back home at 11:30 at night.

Once we dropped Andalyn and Ryan off at my mom's house it was off to Reno we go....

Out of all of the mini trips we have taken together, besides our honeymoon, this has to be one of our favorites. We had so much fun. Once we got settled into our room we went in search of the perfect birthday dinner. We ended up finding this Italian place called Dolce.

We had the most amazing dinner. We started out with something called "Fresh & Crispy" it was very lightly breaded shrimp, calamari, and zucchini with a couple different sauces to dip them in. The presentation on all the dishes we had were incredible. We then split a salad that was this prefect little Italian salad with greens, salami, olives, avocado, red onion, and shredded cheese with a wonderful balsamic vinaigrette. Ok, now that I have all of your mouths watering. :) We are only half way done. For dinner Dave had Chicken Gnocchi and I had Grilled Salmon with Lobster Potatoes. Oh my gosh....both dishes were amazing!! The waitress ended our meal with a sweet desert just for Dave.

Once we were finished at Dolce, we almost had to ask the waitress to roll us out. We were so stuffed. But well worth that "oh my gosh I can't even walk feeling". And the best part of it all, is that on Mondays everything on the menu is 50% off. We ate like Kings for 40 bucks!!

Once we walked off some of our food, and freshened up in our room, it was off to the concert. It was in a standing room only room which made for very soar feet this morning however it was well worth it. The concert was amazing. This was Paramore's first stop on their first headlining tour. They are a very young christian based rock band. The oldest one in the band is like 23, but the rest of them are like 19 and 20. Because they are such a young band, there were 90% teenagers at the concert , 9% parents and then Dave and I made up the last 1%, "big kids" that love the band. :) We were asked by a parent if we had kids at the concert, a little embarrassed, we said "No, we just really like the band." :)

Here is a video clip from the concert.

After the concert we walked our aching feet to our room. We plopped on our big comfy bed and went to sleep.

Happy Birthday Honey, I love you so much and enjoyed our time together in Reno. I feel like these little snippets of time that we get to spend together, just the two of us, makes me fall in love with you all over again. You make me feel like the giddy girl that had a huge crush on you when we started dating. Thank you for always being able to bring me back to such a wonderful time.

Our first trip to the beach

2008-07-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

Dave has been on vacation for the past week and has this next coming week off. In fact we kicked it off with our Date night last weekend. I can't remember the last time Dave was able to take vacation time and actually use it as vacation time. The last few years he has had to use it to move us back and forth from Albuquerque. Well, because we have been able to do some fun things as a family this week we decided to take the kids on their first trip to the beach. We went to a beach in Pacifica off Hwy 1 just south of San Francisco.

I have to say that I couldn't of asked for my kids to be better on the trip there and back. We had no fits or crying episodes. They were angels! Dave and I were so surprised because given past history, of them hating being in their car seats for any amount of time, they did amazingly well.
When we left our house on Wednesday morning it was in the 80's and sunny, however when we got to the beach it was in the low 60's and very windy and overcast. So needless to say we didn't go swimming, but had a great time on the beach. Andalyn was afraid of the ocean because the waves were very loud and huge. She went down to the water with daddy, but after about 2 times of the waves rolling in she was done and wanted to build a sand castle with her new buckets and shovel.

Ryan had a good time as well. He hung out on a blanket under an umbrella. He eventually fell asleep and took a nice relaxing nap on the beach with the noise of the waves in the back ground. Gosh that sounds nice, wish I had a chance to do that. :)

It was a great trip. It was nice to go somewhere as a family and enjoy each others company doing something we hadn't ever done together. I am really looking forward to this next coming week that Dave has off. Monday is Dave's birthday and we are dropping the kids off at my mom's and heading up to Reno for an over night trip. We are seeing a band called "Paramore" in concert that night. I have some of their music on my blog if you want to check them out. They are a Christian based Rock band so they aren't too hard core and don't sing about negative things. We really like them. We also have a camping trip planned at the end of next week. We are going to Thousand Trails up past Marysville, CA. It is a camp ground I grew up going to every summer with my family and my mom's side of the family. Of all of my memories of being young, the camping trips have to be some of my favorites. I can't wait to bring Dave and my own kids to make some new memories there.
I love having Dave home, why can't every week be vacation? :)

Date Night, What's that?

2008-07-19T11:06:00.000-07:00

So I can't remember the last time that Dave and I were able to go to Dinner and a Movie. Well it happened. I know I can't believe it either! We dropped the kids off with Stacy and Marc (thank you so much guys) and went on a date. It has been so nice to have Stacy and Marc so close for many reasons, one being now we can swap babysitting for each other. I do hope that there are many date's to come for both couples. :) We caught an early showing of Hancock with Will Smith. We really liked it. It had some swearing, however a clever story.

We then just walked down the stairs from the El Dorado Theaters to a Mongolian BBQ. We loved it! If you haven't ever tried it, it is so good!

It was a great time, it was nice to just focus on each other, even if it was just for a few hours. Thanks honey for a fun date!! I love you!

Montana and Andalyn, what a pair...

2008-07-17T15:10:00.000-07:00

Montana spent the night last night, and much to my surprise Montana had the same outfit that Andalyn has, so of course I had to dress them alike this morning. Oh, and their hair is exactly the same too. I can go overboard sometimes. :) They are like sisters, they love each other. However they have their fair share of fights too. Here are some pictures from today.

Here they are eating lunch at Andalyn's little table that her Grandma and Grandpa Cashdollar got her.

They both stayed up pretty late last night so they spent the morning just hanging out watching their favorite shows.

Aren't they adorable?

And this is what they are capable of doing together. This is Andalyn's toy room, I think it's great. It just shows how much fun they were having!!

Thanks for coming over and playing Montana! Andalyn loves it!

My little lover boy...

2008-07-17T14:47:00.000-07:00

I have the sweetest little boy in the world. His eyes just melt your heart. He is so cuddly,I love it. Andalyn wasn't much of a cuddler, I'm so glad that Ryan is.

Aunt Stacy with my cuddle bug.

This is what happends the second I look away....

2008-07-17T14:44:00.001-07:00

Andalyn has silicone bread pans on her feet and a tupperware bowl on her head. I can't look away for a second. :)

My little Pirate

2008-07-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

So Andalyn has this obsession with being a pirate. I'm not sure where she got it from, however she thinks that anything she can find to tie around her head makes her a pirate. On this specific day it was her blanket that made her a pirate. She even goes around saying "ARG, I'm a pirate" Silly girl. Check out the link to my sisters blog, she has a video of Andalyn being a pirate. That time she had a head band around her head.

My precious little ones...

2008-07-17T14:27:00.000-07:00

So I haven't been able to find my camera for a while and I found this picture and had to share it. Aren't they precious? Andalyn just loves her little brother, and Ryan can't get enough of his big sister.

Reunited!! :)

2008-07-14T15:22:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to get a chance to see a dear friend of mine, a Friend that I love so much. I have been friends with Jennifer Arges (used to be Hansen) since Kindergarten. Because life happens it has been nearly 7 years since I have seen or talked to her. The last time I saw her was at her wedding! She is now living in Seattle Washington with her husband and is 7 months pregnant. She looks absolutely beautiful. In fact that is what brought us together again. She came to visit and her sisters threw her an awesome baby shower. I was so happy when I got the invite!! I didn't expect to get so emotional when I saw her, however I had so many emotions rush through me when I saw her. She's the one that is pregnant and I was the one that was crying. :) Anyway, if you read this Jen, it was so good to see you and I look forward to keeping in touch and seeing pictures of sweet little Julian when he arrives. Love ya!!!

Andalyn loves her Aunts and Uncles

2008-07-11T21:32:00.000-07:00

Our kids are so lucky to have so many Aunts and Uncles that love her. I found these cute pictures of Andalyn and Her Aunt Whitney and her Uncle Logan I had to post. Just a little info on Whit and Logan...Whitney is almost 15 and will be a sophomore in high school the next coming school year, and is obviously a heart breaker...isn't she beautiful!? And Logan will be 19 in December. He is wonderful, and is looking forward to putting his papers in to go on his mission soon. We love you guys!!

Better late then never!! Happy 4th of July!!!

2008-07-09T11:35:00.001-07:00

It has been well over 2 weeks since my last post. I have been crazy busy....I can't tell you with what but I haven't had a chance to sit down at my computer to even check my email. Anyway, I had to post this picture because I thought the kids looked so cute in their little 4th of July clothes. Thank you Grandma Cashdollar for such cute outfits!! We had a wonderful 4th. We were able to spend time with both sides of the family. Andalyn absolutely loved the fireworks!! Every time we handed her a sparkler or a fire work to put on the ground for someone else to light she said it was "her firework:....well every firework that she saw was "her firework" in her mind :). She REALLY enjoyed the fireworks that went off at the Elk Grove Park that went off in the air. All along Ryan was fast asleep in the house. I'm sure it was better that way. I'm not sure he would of loved the loud noises from the fireworks. Happy belated 4th of July to all. I will do more post sooner than later I promise. :)

Words can not explain but I will try...

2008-06-25T18:34:00.000-07:00

I have been really reflective the last few weeks and especially the last few days. I feel like I have been, and continue to be on, a spiritual journey. It's been a very enjoyable one. I feel like I have really grown to recognize the spirit in my life, whether it's just a presence or promptings. In the process of all this I really have opened my eyes to how incredibly blessed I am. I mean, I know I am blessed and have a good life, but actually really standing still often, and really taking it all in. First of all I am blessed to have this wonderful gospel in my life. Without it I don't think I would have much direction. I have a wonderful husband. Through all of our ups and downs I really feel we are truly connected and in sync, I love him more than words can say. He is the love of my life. I learn everyday how wonderful he is by watching him put me and the kids first and very rarely thinking of himself. I have 2 beautiful children that when I look in their eyes I can truly feel the love they have for me. I know that may sound selfish in a sense, however because I love them so incredibly much, it is a wonderful feeling to look into their eyes and feel it with a connection that will never be broken between us. I am a better person because of my children. I have absolutely wonderful parents who taught me to be a good and honest person. I can't even begin to explain the love I have for them. I have amazing in-laws. I'm not just saying that I really do. I know that a lot of people aren't as lucky as I am. They are truly loving and giving people who my kids and I are so lucky to have in our life. They raised and amazing son, and I am reaping the benefits of that. My brothers and sisters...I have the most amazing bond with my brothers and sisters. I could list each and every one and name the reasons why, but I have 6 of them. This wouldn't be a post, it would be a book. I love them so much. And my friends, I have a few friends that I have had since the beginning of time. They are such wonderful people and have truly touch my life for many years. It is so nice to have life long friends that you can share things with and grow together. These are just a few things that I have had on my mind lately and felt I needed to share it somehow, and I thought this would be appropriate. I am truly happy in my life, and I know not everyone can say that. I know there are times in my life when I wasn't happy, and knowing what unhappy feels like makes me very aware of my blessing of being happy. Thanks to those of you who read this....these are truly feelings from my heart.

He's growing so fast!!

2008-06-20T17:37:00.000-07:00

My little guy had baby cereal and bananas for the first time this week! I can't believe he is old enough to start eating baby food. The last 5 months have flown by!! It was so cute he was trying to suck it off the spoon. Once he got some and tasted the sweetness in the bananas, he looked at me and it was like he said with his eyes "Mom! you have been holding out on me, this is awesome!!" Needless to say he had been chow'n down on his new found food and enjoying it thoroughly.