Whats up with the Hansons!

Preparing for Hurricane Irene

2011-08-26T04:59:00.015+10:00

In 2003, Rodney and I faced our first 'major' hurricane together. I was so excited to learn that Hurriane Isabel was coming and I expected something extaordinary when it got here. We lived in a little apartment at the time with just one window and one sliding glass door. I was ready for the thrill of a lifetime and I was scared at the same time. It started to rain and the wind picked up and I remember asking Rodney, "Where is the hurricane?" "This IS the hurricane.", was not the answer I wanted to get. I was expecting so much more. We watched for a while as one little tree out of our window kept bending backwards but never broke. I was not satisfied. Was this what I was waiting for? So, we did what any young and dumb kids would do, we got in our Durango in the middle of the hurricane and drove to the beach. I did not get out of the car because of course I did not want to get drenched but, Rodney and his friend Tony walked up the sand dunes to see the massive waves. On the way back to the apartment, I was able to see all the flooded roads and the broken trees.. this was worse than what I could see from inside our tiny apartment. The next day we drove around to see entire trees fallen on peoples houses, roads closed because of trees and debris laying all over the place, and we went without power for 4 days.
This year will be our second hurricane. Hurricane Irene is quickly approaching. It's barreling through the Bahamas at the moment as a Category 3. From there it will make a turn and hit the shores of North Carolina (just below us), as possibly at Category 3 or 4. Saturday, we will get hit with a Category 2 or 3. It's a little different this time around. We have 3 kids now, and Rodney got sent out on his ship this morning. 27 ships were evacuated so that they are not damaged by the storms. That leaves the military families behind to fend for ourselves. Quite a few people are choosing to leave and some are getting a little over prepared but, I just remember the thoughts of the first hurricane and can't blame them for being a little freaked out. The locals, of course, are brushing it off and aren't expecting anything as bad as the weatherman is promising. As for me, I plan on staying put. We live in a three story townhouse with a direct view of the ocean across the marsh. I stocked up on hot dogs and flash lights and have my flashlights ready to go. I'm excited to have the best seat in the house without having to get wet! (Lets just pray that there's no flooding!) So, today I took the kids to the beach to watch all the ships leaving the area. They pulled out one after another with Rodney's ship being the last to go. You can feel that the breeze is starting to pick up but it is still HOT out there with the temp being 90 degrees. The kids decided it would be a good idea to jump in the ocean fully clothed. So, when I meet an opportunity to take some great pictures.. I never pass it up!!

Rodney's ship is the furthest to the right.

It's Been Too Long

2011-02-16T22:58:00.004+10:00

I know I've neglected this blog for a year now. Life has a way of getting too hectic and busy and before you know it, time has just passed right by. I sat down the other day looking for a picture and Tatum and I had so much fun looking through all these old posts. It amazes me how much these kids have grown and, although a lot has happened in the last year, there is now way too much to catch up on now. But, I'm starting this blog up again so I don't miss out on documenting their growing up.

We have moved out of PA and back to VA for the next 3 years. The weather is starting to warm up and we're already taking advantage of being next to the beach. These photos are from last weekend when we took the kids on their first bike ride away from home.

Tristan 3yr

Rodney 6yr

Tatum 5yr

Bride and Groom to Be

2010-07-07T05:12:00.000+10:00

Bride and Groom to Be

Zumbathon 2010

2010-05-22T06:38:00.004+10:00

I know it has been SO LONG since I have update this blog and I do appologize! I have a LOT to catch you up on but I would like to start by posting pics of this years Zumbathon. This was a benefit held in honor of my mom, who was a Zumba instructor up until she got sick and couldn't do it anymore. All the proceeds went to the Relay for Life in her name and we did AWESOME! We are hoping to make this an annual event and hopefully next year we will have a bigger turnout!

Me and my sis, ("Today my angel dances... Zumba in Heaven!")

Tatum and my friend Erin at my vendor table.

Tatum and Tristan with Pappy Rich

The girls in action!

This is the instructor of my Zumba classes! She kicks some serious butt!

My sis Zumba-ing!

Linda Maus. Queen of Zumba! We met her last year when she instructed another benefit for my mom at Calico Jacks. She was kind enough to join us here this year to instruct a few dances. No one Zumba's like this girl! Good luck trying to keep up!!

Thanks Marianne and all the instructors who helped out for this Zumbathon! See you next year!!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T11:34:00.003+10:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy 2010! We are of course, staying busy around here. Rodney has been working two jobs, I myself have been working about 100! haha. I am still busy with the Scentsy business. I LOVE this product and I will continue to sell it as long as possible! I am also starting a new venture with Premier Designs Jewelry! Hopefully that will catch on even faster than the Scentsy! The kids are good, rowdy as usual! The house is on the market and hopefully we'll be getting some bites soon! Washington state is only 4-5 months away and we're all excited!

Just wanted to share a FREE offer to you... You can order a FREE 8X10 canvas print from the Canvas People and only pay for shipping. I ordered one of my mom and I. I'm not sure when this offer is up so, jump on it!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-29T02:54:00.007+10:00

The Holidays were very good to us this year. A week before Christmas, Rodney's parents and brothers came into town for a Thanksgiving/Christmas dinner with us which, of course, was yummy! On Christmas we went to my brother's bar and grill for Christmas dinner and then on the 26th we had a BIG family dinner at our house. It's nice to be close to family for the holidays and we really enjoyed ourselves and I think Mom was never far from everyone's mind but, I'm proud of us all for getting through it for her! She WAS Christmas for all of us and we definatley missed her!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Tristan get's his favorite movie.. BOLT!

Airplane from Grandma Hanson

Rodney, Tatum and Tristan at work!

I think Tristan likes this one! haha

Tristan get's a Leapster 2 for Christmas!

My Christmas presents!! :c) Santa spoiled me this year!!

The pile of Christmas presents on the 26th

notice that all of our decorations had to be at the top of the tree this year...

Tatum is sooo excited to get Snow White....

....THANK YOU soooo much Pappy Rich!

Wii games for Rodney Jr.

Paige gets a Pens jersey from Pappy Rich

Tatum shows Pappy Rich his golf outing gift

Santa Claus was a sneaky Claus this year and didn't tell Mrs. Claus everything the kids were getting this year... I thought Rodney Jr. was getting a Leapster 2 for Christmas but Santa Claus was so worried because all Rodney Jr. asked for was a Nintendo DS. Needless to say, Mrs. Claus was surprised when Rodney Jr. opened a Nintendo DS and Tristan opened a Leapster 2!!

Santa Claus did most of the spoiling this year but he was excited to get tickets to see Jeff Dunham this January and we are BOTH excited to plan that night out!!

An Early Christmas Present

2009-12-23T22:16:00.003+10:00

This Christmas we got the pleasure of getting a brand new, FREE puppy! I was NOT all for this idea but, Rodney won on this one and I'm glad that he did! Jet is a Pitt Bull puppy, about 4 months old, and he is the SWEETEST little dog ever! He proved to be a Christmas present for each of us! First, Doobie, she wasn't really sure about him but after an hour of relentless licking and pawing by Jet, Doobie was won over! The kids were upset at first because they thought he was their ONLY gift and it's not what they REALLY wanted. But, as soon as they realized that Santa was coming back on Christmas Eve, they started to pay more attention to him. Rodney gets the Pitt Bull that he's ALWAYS wanted. And I get my vacuum cleaner... FINALLY! Doobie is too scared of our kitchen floors to clean up the mess after the kids are done eating but Jet is always RIGHT there to do the job!! YES!!!

Welcome to the family Jet!!

Happy 2nd Birthday Tristan!

2009-12-01T08:15:00.004+10:00

On the 21st of November we celebrated Tristan's 2nd Birthday. (Actual birthday was the 23rd). We decided to keep this birthday small with just the immediate family. Of course, everything is always done last minute with me so I was still decorating the cake when the guests started arriving. (Sorry Tristan, it could have been SO much better!) He had a great time and so did we!

The monkey cake for my lil' monkey!
He didn't look too sure about everyone singing to him and he almost kissed the candles when he blew them out!

I don't know what prompted the hug but I'll take it!!

Love his face! Even when it's dirty!

Tristan, Grandma Karen, Tatum, Great Grandma Jane, & Rodney Jr.

His favorite thing in the world... Dum Dums!!

He's showing everyone his new fork and 'poon.

Tristan gets some help from Pappy Rich

And Tatum gives Tristan a ride in his new truck truck

720 Hours

2009-11-09T22:35:00.007+10:00

It has already been one month since my mom passed and it's still so hard to believe. It's getting a little harder for me because I'm starting to move from the memories of her being sick, (which helped me get through), to memories of her being alive and smiling and doing so many things this time of the year. I try to make it easier for myself (being a military wife) by pretending I'm just half way across the world and that she's only a phone call away. But then reality sinks in and it SUCKS all over again. "Sucks" is the word my sister and I like to use to best describe this situation. They say everything happens for a reason and in relation to my kids, I always have moments where I think I'm crazy for only being 26 and having three kids. But I am SO HAPPY that my mom was able to know each of my kids and had a chance to LOVE THEM with all of her heart as long as she could. We sometimes worry that the kids will 'forget' her but I'm starting to think she made such an impression on them that she will never be gone. She is still very much a part of the kids everyday conversation and I'll make sure it stays that way. "Miss you Mom"
On a lighter note... Life has moved forward as it always does and we have been very busy this last month. I had to photograph a wedding my mom had booked on Halloween so the week before, we dressed the kids up for Halloween and took them to the Pittsburgh Aviary for thier Halloween special. I was only upset that Tatum didn't get to see a peacock there. On Halloween, I went off to do the wedding and Rodney dressed up the kids to see their Grandma Jane and Pappy Ed and then to see PapPap Nick. They didn't get a lot of candy which was fine by me but, they got enough to make them happy!

Rodney Jr, Grandma Karen and Great Grandma Liz

Rodney Jr. looking at the penguins with Grandma Karen

Princess Peacock (Tatum), Mater (Tristan), and Spiderman (Rodney Jr.)

No More Pain

2009-10-11T22:28:00.004+10:00

When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth, you are weeping for that which has been your delight. ~Kahlil Gibran

After a year of struggle, my mom has lost her battle with Cancer. Thank you for all your prayers, love and support through this journey. She will be missed by so many people for being such a wonderful person. Her smile and laughter will forever be in our hearts. Find comfort in knowing there is no more pain, and she is now in Paradise.

BREATHE

2009-10-01T06:25:00.001+10:00

Prayer is exhaling the spirit of man and inhaling the spirit of God. ~Edwin Keith

Change of Plans

2009-09-26T01:38:00.000+10:00

Just an update... again... looks like my mom will not be attending the Cancer Center at this time. I will try to keep everyone updated and please, keep on praying!

Thank You for the Prayers!!

2009-09-23T08:38:00.001+10:00

Just an update.....! My mom is going to the Cancer Center in Philly! YEY! She goes next week for a 3 day evaluation!! Keep on praying!!

Prayer for Fran

2009-09-19T04:04:00.003+10:00

A little update on my mom.... We are currently trying to get her into The Cancer Center in Philly or Chicago. They are currently checking to see if they accept her insurance and we should know something by today or Monday. So far this center has been wonderful! They have offered to pay for two roundtrip airfares for my mom and a caregiver, just so she can go there and be evaluated. It is a four day process of complete workups. Please pray that my mom can get into this cancer center and that it proves to be as wonderful as we are hoping!

Getting To Know Guam

2009-09-15T21:58:00.004+10:00

Although I am happy to be back to civilization, I do have to admit that Guam was "home for a while"...

Rodney's First Day of School

2009-09-01T23:04:00.003+10:00

Thursday was Rodney Jr.'s first day of Kindergarten. We're all really excited that it's full day but only Rodney Jr. was excited about riding the bus. I was a nervous wreck! But, it has been smooth sailing and he's having a great time!!!

He looks so little!

We left the windows open one night and we all woke up FREEZING!!!

Daddy helping Rodney Jr. with his homework.

Cheese!!

Happy 4th Birthday Tatum!!

2009-09-01T21:11:00.005+10:00

Today is Tatum's 4th birthday!!! I can't believe that my little girl is 4 already! On Sunday we had a party for her. It was her first REALLY big party. About 30 people came and she was SOOO excited to see all the presents that came along with the guests! She got a whole new wardrobe for the year!!!

Thanks Aunt Jen and Uncle Frank for taking the pictures!!!

Still Here...

2009-08-11T10:58:00.002+10:00

I just wanted everyone to know that we're still around! The kids and I finally moved into the new house. I've been so busy unpacking, re-arranging, and now, getting ready for a garage sale, that I have had little time to post anything. I will return soon with some pictures and updates!!

Kennywood

2009-07-06T04:39:00.004+10:00

My sister and brother-in-law shared their idea of going to Kennywood to celebrate the 4th a day early so we all jumped at the idea. The kids had a wonderful time in Kiddieland and I really enjoyed watching their excitement.

Hunter and Dylan on the motorcycles.
Peek-a-Boo Tristan!

The Whip was a favorite for all the kids

Layla and Hunter

LOVE this shot of Hunter!

Paige, Dave, Jen, Dylan and Layla

Tatum and mom

Tristan playing with Daddy

Jen and Paige on the Aero 360

Rodney's Birthday Weekend in PA

2009-07-05T14:13:00.006+10:00

If anyone had trouble getting ahold of Rodney this weekend it's because he was in PA spending his birthday weekend with us. We had SO MUCH FUN!! Of course it was FANTASTIC to see him but we spent all day at Kennywood on Friday and then we went to the Canonsburg Fourth of July parade on Saturday and even had time for a birthday cupcake before he had to go back home. We really enjoyed having him here. Thanks for spending your birthday with us Rodney! We love you!!!

Happy Birthday to you....
My sweet Rodney taking time out of the parade to get a picture with me

Here is Rodney in front of a biker. You see that he was getting too much sun and I made him take off his sunglasses so he didn't have rings around his eyes...

We really loved watching the parade together!

Here we are at Kennywood. Rodney Jr. is taking us for a ride!

Rodney was so nice to share a salad with me! It was delicious! You can see that Tristan got a hold of his hat...

Rodney, Jen, and Tristan standing in line for the Phantom Jr.

I finally convinced Rodney to go on the Merry-go-Round with me. We all know how going in circles makes him really dizzy!

Our family photo. Of course, Tristan just can't take his eyes off of Daddy.

The Pictures are Ready!

2009-07-03T00:01:00.001+10:00

For those of you who are interested in seeing more engagement pictures..

http://www.seemyprints.com

The event is Dave and Amber Engagement

The password is Love

Still working on the link....

2009-07-01T21:31:00.002+10:00

I took so many pictures of Amber and Dave, and I did SO many edits to them that I couldn't choose what pics to leave out of the final selection. So, I started uploading them to their website last night, let it run all night, and still this morning there are about 15 pictures left to upload! So, I don't have the link yet but here are a few more to share with you....

Amber and Dave Engagement Shoot (POTD)

2009-06-30T13:12:00.003+10:00

Tonight I was lucky enough to do an engagment photo shoot for some old high school friends. (Did I mention how awesome it was to be back home??) :c) SO, they did awesome! I got this photo ready for them to give them a sneak peek because I know how anxious someone can get right after they have their pictures taken! (I know because I'm one of them!) I took over 200 pictures so it will take me a while to get them all online but, I'll post the link as soon as I get it finished! Thanks Amber and Dave! I had a blast!!

Tatum and Layla (POTD)

2009-06-28T13:05:00.003+10:00

My mom and Rich took the kids to Dylan and Paige's ball games one day and my mom snapped this picture of Tatum and Layla which I LOVE!! But, she didn't realize at the time that her white balance was set to Tungsten so, it made the picture come out greenish. So, I played around with the colors and made LOTS of edit changes.....

The original Picture

My 5th edit change...

DMB!

2009-06-22T21:58:00.004+10:00

I was SO excited to go the the Dave Matthews Band concert this year! For a few years before I went to Guam, my brother, sister and I made it kind of an annual thing. I've missed going so much and it was the first thing I asked my sister about when I got home from Guam. We had a great time! I'm looking forward to next years concert!! :c)

Me in the middle of Jeaninne and Abbie
My sister Jen being goofy in the car

Jeaninne, Jen and I

Trying to act like the young kids

Our tailgating group

My sis and me

Following the Photographer

2009-06-17T00:15:00.004+10:00

About a week and a half ago, I was given the opportunity to follow a wedding photographer at one of his weddings. He was nice enough to take my mom to a few weddings and really taught her a lot. My mom asked if I could go with him to a few incase she doesn't feel well enough to go to her scheduled weddings, she would atleast feel comfortable that I had a few church weddings under my belt since I mainly just work outdoors.
Here are a few of the pictures that I took. Out of respect for the photographer, I did not include the bride and groom's name and I did not include any shots that might be duplicating a shot that he took. Most of these are off set or candids that I caught myself.

The grooms mom dancing with the DJ

Trip to Pittsburgh Children's Museum

2009-06-15T09:00:00.009+10:00

Today I decided to be brave and take all three kids to the Pittsburgh Children's Museum... all by myself! First of all, for those of you who aren't aware, driving in a city, alone, makes me VERY nervous and sick to my stomach so normally, I don't do it. BUT, I made it there with no nerves, no tummy aches, no getting lost. (Thank you GPS). I even got stuck in traffic because there was a Pirates game today but, even that didn't get me wound up.
Aside from Rodney being there with us, I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. The kids were WONDERFUL! My kids are NEVER wonderful! No tears, no yelling, no bad attitudes, only really stinky diapers and one vomit filled trash can at the end. God was definatley with me today and I thank him for that tremendously! I went a little overboard with the pics so, I'll leave most of the post to comments.

Bob the Builder was the special feature of the day

Silly Tatum

Rodney trying to make a whirl pool at the water play station.

This exhibit was especially nice because we like to say we are 'mutual friends' of Mr. Rogers. haha. The kid's Great Grandma Hanson grew up in Latrobe and went to school and was friends with Mr. Rodgers.

Mr. Roger's Neighborhood Trolley

Rodney with Mr. Rogers

Ok, I lied, here are a little bit of tears from Tristan but they didn't last long.

I want to put one of these in the kid's bedrooms. They could have stayed in there all day!

Tatum was happy she made it out.

Wait a minute.. I thought we left Guam....

I'm not sure what they were listening to..

Possibly Tatum's first car

She did pretty good pumping gas aside from not opening the gas cap.

Rodney and Bob the Builder

I love this picture of Tatum and Tristan

Tatum had a blast painting but we had to cut it short due to Rodney Jr. puking in the garbage can right beside her. I didn't even get to bring home her painting. :c(

There were a ton of streamers hanging from the ceiling. I thought it looked really cool. I would not have wanted to be the person who put them there..

Thinking of Daddy... Heinz Field

The cause of the traffic... PNC Park.

(and just to note.. yes, I did get lost on the way home. Not really lost but, gotta love the Fort Pitt Bridge, get on from the far right and you need to get in the far left lane to get in the tunnels... didn't make it. Still not a bad trip driving in Pittsburgh. Thanks Children's Museum for entertaining my little monsters!)

We Have a WINNER!!!

2009-06-10T21:04:00.006+10:00

After special consideration, I have decided to take down the pictures from the last post that showed the front of the houses. I welcome any 'visitor' on my blog because I admit, I am quite the blog surfer myself, BUT, I thought maybe it wasn't a good idea to show where I lived incase I have one creepy person out there who wants to know. I had to realize that I'm not on a Navy Base anymore, where even my own mother needs to have a special pass to come to my house..... So, for my family and friends, if you haven't seen the front of the house yet, you'll just have to come visit us. But....

IT'S OURS!!! We finally came to an agreement on an offer yesterday! And I'm glad to say that it all happened so quickly that I didn't have time to worry about whether or not they were going to except our offer! We went back and forth twice with counters but, I think we came to a good price for both parties!

Here are some pics of the inside of the house. I'm posting them now and not later because I know you all waited for pictures of the inside of the Guam house and never got them because I didn't want to show you my clutter of unpacking. Well, this shows somone else's clutter of packing so... look away!! :c)

The street on our way to our house
The view from the front door

The living room

Kitchen

My mom sitting in the family room.

driveway from the deck

some of the backyard

The pretty princess room. Tatum is going to be so upset when she learns that this room isn't hers. It's the bigger of the two rooms so I need to give it to the boys. But, I plan on painting her room very girly! (well, and of course this room isn't going to stay pink!)

part of the master bath

part of the master bedroom. This room is HUGE.

Tatum's future bedroom.

Which One Will It Be??

2009-06-09T10:08:00.004+10:00

We have narrowed our search down to two houses. I have to say that Rodney is being very nice to me because he would like me to continue looking at more houses BUT, I'm exhausted and just plain tired of going into dirty, yucky houses. I LOVE these two houses so I have turned the dirty work over to Rodney. He gets to decide what lucky house will be the winner and then we get to put an offer in TOMORROW!! YEY!! The kids are VERY excited to have their own bedrooms and they are excited to know that Daddy sent their things in the mail. haha. But, they keep asking if Daddy is going to come live with us and all I can say is that he's trying. Hopefully we all get our wish and he can be here with us soon!! I'll update you on which house gets to be ours and then I'll post more pics of the winner then!!

Zumba for Fran

2009-06-08T11:07:00.006+10:00

I'm sure everyone knows by now but, for those of you who don't know, my mom was diagnosed with cancer this year. She has been going through chemo and radiation treatments for a few months now. Prior to her getting sick, she was a Zumba instructor at a local women's gym. She LOVED doing it and everyone LOVED taking her classes. Well, she hasn't been able to do it in a while but, her love of Zumba opened up an opportunity for a benefit to be held on her behalf. Fellow 'Zumba people' around the area heard about my mom and asked if they could hold a fundraiser for her. It was held at Calico Jacks Cantina in Pittsburgh and the turnout was INCREDIBLE! I could not believe how many people showed up to support a complete stranger! It was really an honor to be there to see how it touched her and I am so thankful for everyone who supported her.
I also wanted to mention that I posted a donation link to the sidebar for anyone who would like to contribute to help my mom pay for her medical bills. She has lost her job through all of this and has to pay for her own insurance which, can be costly when you can't work. Anything would be appreciated. And if you don't feel comfortable giving a donation to my mom, please, feel free to donate to Relay for Life so that they may find a cure for all types of Cancer. And, if nothing else, I believe a prayer for her would go a long way!! Thank you!!

My mom Fran

me and my mom

A peeping Tom??

Mom helping out with the cool down

Thanks Everyone!

Relay for Life

2009-06-07T23:59:00.006+10:00

On May 16th I participated in the Washington County Relay for Life held at Chartiers Houston High School. I wanted to share some of the pictures and note that I have added a link to the sidebar for donations to Relay for Life.

The crew decorating the firefighter tent.

My mom and my sister Jen

Jen, Ed, and Mom

My brother Jeff and his daughter Cassie

Rich's parents Jane and Ed, and their friend.

My mom and sister got asked to carry the Survivor banner and lead the survivors around the track for the Survivor Lap. Here they are with their caregivers, Dave and Rich, and the Wildthing.

The rest of our team carrying the sign for the Team Lap.

My nieces Paige and Layla

Tristan passed out. He didn't feel well that day.

Some of our team.

Tristan and me

My niece Cassie (left) and her friends

My sister with a fellow Survivor who rode with Lance Armstong. She, like my sister, found out that she was pregnant and diagnosed with cancer at the same time.

Me lighting a candle for my mom

My mom and I lighting a candle for my sister

My sister lighting her own candle

Jen lighting her candle on the torch

Jen with the team sign

Happy 5th Birthday Rodney Jr.

2009-06-05T12:05:00.007+10:00

Today was Rodney Jr.'s 5th birthday. We had a really good time but we're really bummed out that Rodney couldn't be here to celebrate it with us. But, we know that he was here with us by thinking of Rodney Jr. all day and I really tried to make it a fun day for him.
First, I treated Rodney to a movie and popcorn. He asked if Grandma Fran and Tatum could go with us so, we all went to see 'Up' and left Tristan home with Pappy Rich. Rodney isn't feeling so great so, he passed on the popcorn. (This is not heard of if you know this kid!) Pappy Rich and Tristan met us at the Texas Roadhouse after the movie for an early dinner. Again, Rodney Jr. passed on his mac and cheese and only ate apple sauce but, he had a blast when a trail of 'Texas Roadhousers' came to the table clapping their hands and singing 'Happy Birthday' to him.
All in all I think he had a really good day. Happy Birthday Rodney Jr.!! We love you!!

Rodney and Tatum waiting to buy our tickets.
I just love their picture faces these days. And yes, that it blood on Tatum's bottom lip. She has a fasination with chewing her own mouth and we don't know how to get her to stop.

Grandma Fran, Pappy Rich and Rodney Jr.

This is his surprised face when the 'Roadhousers' came to the table.

She's asking him if he's 5

"YEE-HAW!"

The fam, minus Daddy :c(

Rodney's $3.50 Wal-Mart birthday cake. I splurge don't I? Rodney shared a birthday ice cream cake with Dylan on Memorial Day.

Last Trip to the PIC

2009-06-04T11:27:00.005+10:00

This post is long over-due but, I just found these pictures on a camera card and figured it was better late than never to show them. This PIC trip was the weekend before Tristan and I came to PA. It was a little family vacation that we treated ourselves to after paying off a big bill. We had a BLAST! These pictures were taken one night we decided to go to a dinner show and then to a little 'kids' dance party around the pool. We didn't know then that it was going to be our last 'big' family vacation for a while and I'm SO glad we went!

Rodney dancing with Tatum.
Rodney Jr. was having a lot more fun than it looks!

My beautiful girl

Tristan chillin' on daddy's lap.

One of the dancer's at the dinner show.

I know girls, you all want to go to Guam now right?

An Update

2009-05-04T10:54:00.002+10:00

I know that it's been FOREVER since I wrote but I assure you that I have been VERY busy!!
For those of you on Guam who have been wondering what happened to me, I decided at the last minute to come home to PA for a visit because of health issues with my mom. And, then, I decided that I needed to stay and not return to Guam. Rodney joined me shortly after my decision to bring the kids and visit for a month. We had a great time while he was here doing everything we couldn't do on Guam for 2 years and visiting with family both here, and in New Jersey. Sadly, he had to leave about 2 weeks ago to finish out his last year in Guam. We will miss him!
I have been looking for houses and I have found PLENTY that would be perfect for us but, for those of us who know how the military works, I have not been able to put an offer in on these homes because the 'paperwork' is not straight yet. Hopefully soon!!!
For everyone I didn't get to say goodbye to in Guam, I will miss you and I hope that you have safe travels and good times when you finally get to leave that place!! haha. And for those of you here in PA that I haven't seen yet, I can not WAIT until we are reunited!!
Once I have my own computer here set up in my own house, I'm sure I will be updating this more frequently with pictures! Until then...

Worst Parents EVER

2009-02-27T07:04:00.005+10:00

Well, these pictures are a a few weeks old but, I figured some people would be anxious for a post so, I decided to put them on here.
Against our better judgement, we let the kids ride their big Tonka Truck down our hill in the backyard for amusement. Rodney and I were relaxing on the porch reading books and Tristan was taking a nap so, the kids were starting to get restless. This would not have been the worst idea in the world if the kids didn't meet our house at the bottom of the hill. But, no accidents, no one got hurt, just some good old fashioned 'kids being kids'.

Some Things Don't Change

2009-02-21T20:02:00.006+10:00

Rodney Jr. is playing soccer again and his first game was today. I have to stick up for him a little bit and let you all know that he has only had one practice before this game, and he hasn't played in a year, BUT he's still taking after me in the sports department. Totally shy and TOTALLY in lala land!! haha. We had to buy him new shoes today, (thanks Grandma Karen), and his foot grew 3 sizes since last year! Guess he's going to take after his daddy in the feet department!!
His coach wants to have practice 3 days a week so, I'm hoping that he'll improve greatly by next season!!

Here he is complaining on how hot he is. (He didn't even play yet!)

Tatum looked like she was choking him!

Such a ladies man!!

Go Here to see more pics of the game.

Franco Harris

2009-02-08T17:06:00.005+10:00

Today Rodney and I went to the Commissary to meet Steeler's Running Back, Franco Harris. We took every card and every picture we had of him hoping that he would sign them all but, they put a two per person limit on autographs. So, we chose to have each of the Super Bowl team pictures, that my dad gave us in plaques, signed. He was surprised to see them since everyone else was having him sign jersey's and footballs. At the last minute, Rodney convinced him to sign a photograph for Jonathan since he couldn't be there. (No military i.d.). We quizzed Harris on a certain photograph where they had a patch on the shoulder of the jersey's. He couldn't remember exactly but assumed that it was the 50th anniversary patch of the Steelers. We're glad we went!!

Rodney, Franco Harris and me.

Thanks!

2009-02-04T10:17:00.003+10:00

Special thanks to everyone from Wish Upon A Hero who sent my mom cards!! This is a great site for anyone who doesn't know about it! I highly suggest you taking a look. The button is on my sidebar.
Here are some pictures of Rodney and Tatum writing to a little girl from Wish Upon A Hero who wanted a pen-pal.

Celebrating the Steelers!

2009-02-03T13:56:00.004+10:00

We are SUPER excited that our Steelers WON THE SUPERBOWL!! WooHOO!! We 'watched' it with our North Carolina family. (Grandma and Grandpap Hanson. Mom and Dad Hanson, and Connie went there to watch the game too). We kept our web cam on as they did the same. We had to mute them though because we had about a 10 second delay over here and we could hear them screaming before the play even started! It was still a lot of fun! Rodney fried a turkey (yum, yum) and I made some breakfast 'muffins' since our game started at 9am here! (and yes, the guys DID start drinking that early). They were pretty useless the rest of the day! haha. Can't alter the party because of the time right??

Me being a dork after the game.
Jonathan and Rodney

Obviously, we just won the game!!

Tristan celebrating too!

Tough guys, huh?

This is a picture of Tatum's butt. Shortly after she came out of the bathroom, Jonathan asked us if she was wearing a diaper... nope, she just left toilet paper in her butt!! Never a dull moment with that girl!

A Trip to Underwater World

2009-02-01T15:29:00.005+10:00

Today we took a trip out to Underwater World again. I figured that we should go as many times as we can before our year passes expire. The kids had a blast as usual. And we got to take Jack and Jonathan for the first time. Afterwards we got some Italian gellato's and can you say YUM!!?? Rodney knows me well and got me tiramisu! YUM YUM YUM!!! :c)

Rodney Jr. took this photo of Rodney and I.

Rodney Jr. saying 'Cheese'.

Tristan's hair is getting a little too long for the Mohawk!

They have two turtles now instead of one.

The kids. Rodney, Wolf, Jonathan, and Jack.

She always has a way of messing up her hair!

It took me ten tries to get them both to look at the camera at the same time.

Jonathan saying 'cheese'

Jonathan, Wolf, and Jack

My Little Alien

2009-01-25T11:49:00.004+10:00

So, for those of you who have been wondering why I've been calling Rodney Jr. my alien, here are some pictures to give you an idea. He has cellulitis on his forehead from a bug bite. This post is a few days late so, you'll be happy to know that after a few days of antibiotics, he is doing much better and the swelling has gone away.

This was a perfect moment to have a camera in my hand!!

Step One
Step two

2 days after the bite

Tagged... Again

2009-01-23T16:35:00.003+10:00

Here are the rules...

1. Go to your documents/pictures
2. Go to your 6th file
3. Go to the 6th picture
4. Blog about it
5. Tag 6 other friends
Smile!

Ok, I don't have 6 other friends who blog, so, I'm just going to tag Amy and Amanda!

I have no idea what was going on in this picture BUT, I am amazed to see how little Tristan is and how short Tatum's hair is. (her hair, not her bangs, which in this picture are the correct length!) She pulled a reversal on me!! haha

The Revolution of Dance

2009-01-18T07:35:00.001+10:00

I HAD to steal this from my sisters facebook page. Have a look-see! I promise you'll laugh for the whole 6 minutes!!

Our Outside

2009-01-16T08:01:00.006+10:00

I know many of you are anxious to see the inside of our new house BUT it is filled with clutter at the moment and I would like to wait to show you so that you can see the niceness of the new place instead of all the mess! So, for now, I will show you what I get to see when I look out my windowS everyday!!

Our side of the house
The whole unit

This is the closest playground. Its behind the house across the street from us. They have grills and picnic benches and even a water fountain.

This is the path right next to the house that takes you through the whole development. It runs street to street right through the middle.

If you look to the right of the new house, you will see what the old houses looked like before they tore them down. YUCK!

This is the back of the house. The mud you see is thanks to the guys who decided to have a wrestling match back there. Thanks guys! :c)

This is a view of my neighbors from the path behind my house.

This is the path continuing to the next street. (We are the last street, or the first street, however you may look at it. But, they have the entrance closest to us blocked off so, right now, we are technically the last street).

Here's a video of me walking Doobie. You can sort of get the feel of the surroundings.

Guam's Syncro Dive Team

2009-01-03T16:59:00.006+10:00

The guys took another trip to one of the waterfalls this week. I THINK this one is Waterfall Valley. I myself will never do this because, even though it looks romantic and exotic, after you add in the mosquitoes, the sword grass, and the banana spiders, it is more like a small hell than an oasis. But, it's something they enjoy doing quite often and I'm fine just looking at the pictures.

They took Jonathan's camera and for some reason, every time I upload pics from his camera, they turn out sideways. It takes too long to upload for me to delete them and try again so, sorry.

We welcomed a new guy to the island this week. His name is Jack. He knew Wolf already and I have been talking to his wife on Myspace for a few months now trying to help her out with any of the questions she may have about the move. Jack fits right in with the crew and to be honest, it feels like he's always been here. Which, is probably how it will feel when I finally get to meet his wife Amanda when she gets here after she graduates college. (Wow, was that a run-on sentence??) haha.

Rodney and Wolf practiced their swan dive a few times before Jonathan was able to capture it on camera.

Tim jumping off the falls
Taking a swim

Jack jumping

Jon jumping

Rodney and Wolf diving

Climbing back up

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-28T13:58:00.009+10:00

Thanks to all of you, we had a WONDERFUL Christmas this year! We ended up broke at the end and buying a Turkey even became a project but, with some help, we pulled it off and we all had a blast!
We started off with a 'family' Christmas with Wolf and Tim as well (and Lavarus's help). Then we got some visitors for a nice two-Turkey dinner. (one was smoked, the other fried). I got my first taste of real collard greens... YUM! :c)

Rodney opening his p.j.s from Santa on Christmas Eve

Jonathan and his p.j.s

my p.j.s

Rodney and I snuck out for a quick visit to a Christmas Eve party.

The MASSIVE amounts of gifts!!

Our tree... don't know how it ended up sideways but, here it is!!!

Tristan opening his stocking from Gram Fran

Tatum jamming with her guitar

Tristan wearing Uncle Jon's shades

So, I REALLY don't know how some of these pictures ended up sideways!! This is Rodney Jr. giving Mr. Tim a high five after opening his present

Tristan got some help from Mr. Lavarus ( I know I didn't spell that right!)

Tatum LOVED these shoes!!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! Thank you!! MUAH!

Some Pics

2008-12-23T11:15:00.006+10:00

For those of you who haven't figured it out yet...my mom came to visit us for a little over a week and we crammed lots of fun things and SHOPPING into those few days. Here are a few random pictures from her visit...

Banana Spider outside of my bedroom window

Post for Amy

2008-12-22T08:34:00.001+10:00

This post is for Amy...

Just because I know you love this so much and I wanted to link it for you....

Take the Quiz and Share Your Results!

8 Things Tag

2008-12-22T08:00:00.003+10:00

RULES
1. Post rules on your Blog.
2. Answer the six "8" items.
3. Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving them a comment.

8 Favorite Shows:
1. Grey's Anatomy
2.Private Practice
3. Survivor
4.Jon and Kate +8
5. Brothers & Sisters
6. Lipstick Jungle
7. Top Chef
8. Son's of Anarchy (going through withdraws right now)

8 Things I Did Yesterday:
1. cleaned the kitchen
2. went to the mini-mart
3. made biscuits and gravy
4. cleaned the kitchen again
5. delivered dinner to Rodney at the ship
6. went to the mini-mart again (forgot milk)
7. made enchiladas and burned the rice
8. Watched the Break-Up

8 Things I Look Forward To:
1. CHRISTMAS!!
2. Rodney's pay raise in January
3. Moving into the new housing (hopefully in January)
4. figuring out a routine so I can get back to the gym everyday
5. losing 30 lbs
6. getting all of my laundry done and staying on top of it, not standing on top of it
7. eating Rodney's dinners for the rest of my life. YUM!
8. Tatum starting school!

8 Favorite Restaurants:
1. Macaroni Grill ( I miss this SO much!)
2. any authentic Mexican restaurant
3. Vitale's
4. Jan Z's
5. Caliente's
6. the Westin all you can eat buffet
7. Taco Bell
8. Wendy's

8 Things on my wish list:
1. A clutter free home
2. More photography jobs
3. paying off debts
4. Happy family
5. a move to Pittsburgh
6. for all the Obama haters to be proven wrong
7. for my family members to find good jobs SOON
8. A long healthy life

8 People to Tag:
I don't even know 8 people with blogs....

Lets start with..
AMY!

(Oh, and mom, don't worry, I'm not done blogging about your trip) :c)

The P.I.C.

2008-12-13T19:55:00.009+10:00

I know it's taking me a while to finish blogging about my mom's trip here but, slowly but surely, I'm completing it!
This is the weekend we spent at the PIC. We decided to get a room there so we could spend two whole days using the pool. The kids loved it as usual. Now anytime I tell them we're going to the pool, they want to go to this one....

You can't tell but this tube went uphill and I had to put my hands on the bottom of Tristan's feet so he could make it to the other side.

I had to add this one because Rodney's belly looks so weird!! haha

Dad helping Rodney Jr. with the monkey bars.

Before we settled in for the night, we went to a different hotel and had an all you can eat seafood dinner then snuck out back to watch bits and pieces of the dance show.

Don't look at my thighs... oh darn! I just made you look didn't I???

(I'm working on fixing that!! haha)

Tristan just makes me smile when I look at this pic.

The gang of us.

Sometimes they act like they love each other...

Tatum went under the water about a hundred times while we were there. She just kept doing it over and over again. I don't know how she didn't pass out! And she didn't even hold her nose! She must have got that quality from Daddy because I still have to hold my nose!

Mom wanted to take home a souvenir! Sorry Mom... he has to stay!

Pictures at Tarague Beach

2008-12-05T17:37:00.008+10:00

My mom and I took the kids to Tarague Beach while she was here to take some pics of the kids. Rodney and Tatum were less than excited but, I couldn't have asked for better pictures from Tristan. He sat in this tree stump for 15 minutes just amusing himself. Then, he found a hole down in the sand and dug at it with a stick for another 15 minutes. Such a cute kid!! I have to say that I love taking pictures outside the most and I will miss the pretty scenery here!

Our attempt on getting the three of them together.
Happy in his tree stump

Sorry if this wasn't one of the approved pictures mom..

Still smiling

My future movie star

No idea what they were looking at

Finally, a real smile!

Yes, those were brand new clothes that I bought that day!!

Tristan digging in his holes

A Night of Bowling

2008-11-28T08:52:00.004+10:00

Rodney went out one night to celebrate a few friends advancements so, my mom and I decided to take the kids to the bowling alley for a game and dinner. This has become a favorite activity for the kids. Tatum doesn't know how to wait for her turn so, it makes for a long and aggravating game but, as long as they have fun, thats all that really matters. I got a TURKEY in this game! (No idea when I decided to get good at bowling but, I"ll take it!)

My old woman and her walker!

I laugh every time I look at this picture!

Not quite sure what she was doing...

The final score

Talafofo Falls

2008-11-26T19:42:00.005+10:00

We took a trip to Talafofo as our last 'sight seeing trip'. Of course, it was, as always, too expensive but, I guess they figure thats the only way you're going to see a waterfall without hiking so, they charge an arm and a leg for you to do it. It was hot, and Tristan was heavy, but, we made it though!! :c)

Mom and the kids at the lower fall
Rodney Jr. just couldn't get the cosept of how to stand like a pirate!

The kids and I in front of the upper falls

Rodney JR. wanted this train to work so badly!

The kids fed the pigs but, Rodney Jr. says that he got bit by one. I don't think we'll be doing that again!

On the way to the falls we stopped to get some pics of the Pacific Ocean and were passed by some friendly bikers. The Guam Hogs? Maybe?

Happy Birthday Tristan!!!

2008-11-25T17:15:00.004+10:00

Tristan is one!! I can't believe it! I remember looking down at him when he was an infant and telling myself to take a mental picture of that moment because I knew he wouldn't be that little for long and because I knew he was my last. I didn't think that he would be a year SO FAST!!! He has been my sweet baby BUT he has also won the name "monster baby" by all of us.

This was the last day that we had to spend with my mom. She hasn't missed any of the kids 1st birthdays and I thank her for traveling so far to not miss this one!! It was nice to have her here to help me out but, I wish we weren't so busy on our last day together! These pics are a little out of order but, you get the idea!!

Ian, Phillip, Lani, and Rodney

Tristan wants to share some cake!

A little excited!?

I finally was able to put a cake in front of him.. explanation later....

A whole new meaning to "dig in!"

Whats this??

No daddy! Take it away!

Like I said, the pics are a little out of order, but, Tristan was SCARED of this cake!!! He would not stop crying until it was taken away from him and he never touched it again!

This is right before he started to wig out.

Happy Birthday to you....

Grandma Fran and Tristan

Tatum and Rodney modeling the birthday stuff

The smash cake I made... for no reason...

The store cake. He wasn't too fond of this one either.. maybe a jungle theme wasn't the best idea??

A Few More...

2008-11-21T08:40:00.007+10:00

Here are a few more pics to hold you over...

This is from a day at Gab Gab beach
Grandma Fran bought the kids leggos and they LOVE THEM! My living room floor however....

We took the kids to Targue Beach at the airforce base to take some pics. Needless to say they got a little wet....

I want to know what was so funny about this tree!!!

Tristan was a happy camper but the other two wanted nothing to do with the camera...

We've Been Busy

2008-11-20T20:28:00.002+10:00

My mom has been visiting with us for the last week and we've been all over the island. Here are a few pictures to show what we've been up to. We have a few more days to go and then I'll post some details....

Mom bought the kids some chairs for Christmas...
All of us after dinner.....
The kids look nice and happy with full bellies..
Wild man Tristan at the P.I.C.
Rodney Jr. trying to catch some zzz's after an exhausting day!!

A Visit from Grandma Karen and Pap Pap Nick

2008-10-31T09:44:00.003+10:00

As most of you know already, we were lucky enough to have my parents come and visit for two weeks this month. They are visitors #2. As soon as they got here they wanted to buy Tatum a car because they bought Rodney a monster truck two Christmas's ago. The kids definatley got spoiled while Grandma Karen and Pap Pap Nick were here! We were all sick with the flu the first week they were here but we jam packed the second week with fun activities and had a blast. We will really miss them!!

Our Days Inside

2008-10-31T08:56:00.004+10:00

Of course we had to find things to do when each of us were sick, so, the day that Rodney was sick, we took the kids to the mall to the indoor 'amusement' park and let them try out all the rides.
The day my dad was sick, Karen and I went around to little shops then when we got back, both the guys decided to join us for bowling. This is Rodney Jr.'s new favorite thing to do.

Don't let the smile fool you.. Tatum HATED this ride!

Tatum always wanted it to be her turn... like my nifty shoes??

The P.I.C.

2008-10-30T15:23:00.007+10:00

Since we all had the flu, Rodney and my's anniversary plans got pushed back. We were supposed to go see a movie and go to dinner. So, when we were feeling better a few days later, we picked out two movies and left the kids with Grandma and Pap Pap and headed off. Well, my sneaky sneaky husband had a night at the PIC all planned out without me knowing. I was SO excited that I would have a king sized bed to sleep in and no kids waking me up at the crack of dawn! A little added bonus... the waterpark! I woke up at 8am the next morning so excited about the pool and the kids meeting us there!! This place is my 2nd favorite place next to Disney World!! There is so much to do and the kids had a blast! I would go there over and over and over again if I could afford it on a regular basis!!

A view from our room

the water park (part of it)

and another part..

and another part...

the kayak spot

Tatum coming out of the slide a little too fast

Tristan was beat!!

Grandma Karen and Rodney waiting for the bucket to fall

Tristans first taste of Jello... and he LOVED it!!

Dad flipped himself out of the tube

The Jungle Riverboat Cruise

2008-10-30T15:01:00.004+10:00

My friend Amy told me about the Riverboat Cruise and said that her family had a great time, so, we decided to give it a try. We had a good time (when I wasn't getting eaten by bugs), and while it was something neat to see, I probably wouldn't spend the money to do it again... We did have our own tour guide since we were the only English speaking people there!!

Rodney hangin' with Grandma Karen

Rodney showing off one of his little animal creations.

Tristan trying to get a drink. We forgot to bring a stroller!

A little little lizard decided to take a seat on Dad's foot.

Rodney Jr. showing off some more of his stuff..

Happy Birthday Grandma Karen!!

2008-10-30T14:36:00.006+10:00

Our last full day together, we were lucky enough to celebrate Karen's birthday! We decided to go to Gab Gab and cook out. We had a long but very fun day! This was Karen's best day because she got to snorkel and see cool things like the blue starfish. (Which, even I have yet to see!!)

We had to find something to occupy Tristan's hands with so he wouldn't eat sand.

Pap Pap Nick helped the kids make a big castle. It lasted until Rodney Jr. came after school and destroyed it.

Tristan relaxing with Pap Pap

Happy after a cracker

Dad decided to try out snorkeling.

Thanks for coming to see us! We'll miss you!!

Patience Please...

2008-10-28T15:24:00.002+10:00

Well, HOPEFULLY, my outlet problem will be fixed tomorrow and I will be able to post. (A real post that is). The guys are due to be here at around 3pm tomorrow so hopefully they will fix it and not go back for more parts!!!

I Didn't Forget

2008-10-23T11:25:00.002+10:00

I didn't forget about posting.. As most of you know, I had some family in town for the last two weeks and I didn't have much time to get on the computer. Right after they left, we changed the bedrooms around and set up the computer in Tatums old room, only to find out that the outlet doesn't work in there. So, we're waiting for that to get fixed and therefore, I can't get on the computer to update the blog because all of the pictures are on there.
Our house is falling apart, besides the outlet, we have a light fixture that is leaking water, and the air conditioner stopped working today. Great huh? I'll update you all as soon as SOMETHING in this house is working again!!

Saturday Project

2008-10-04T16:42:00.003+10:00

I have been waiting for a week to take the kids to the pool but everyday, it has rained. Today, Rodney went fishing bright and early so I thought it was the perfect opportunity to take the kids to the pool since it was nice and sunny.... 10 minutes later, it started to rain. It was so dark that I decided that I was just going to go to the store and but some things to let the kids paint. (I needed decorations for Tristan's room.) On the way back, it was bright, beautiful, and sunny again. And stayed that way for the rest of the day. BUT the kids were so excited to paint that, yet again, another nice day was wasted inside. (Almost)
At the craft store I bought some canvas and some paints that matched Tristan's room. I went to the NEX and bought craft aprons for $3 a piece. This is a fun project but, I have to warn you, you can only GUIDE your children to paint what YOU want them to paint. And what I mean is to give them tools that you want them to use. You really have to be ok with letting them do what they want to do from that point on because thanks to a certain elementary school art teacher, I know first hand what it feels like as a child to be 'corrected' on your artwork. So, the project didn't turn out as planned but, still, I hung them up on the walls, the kids had fun, and they are proud.

Today's Disaster (POTD)

2008-10-02T08:16:00.004+10:00

Well, I finally took some time out today to call my sister and chat for a little while... Rodney Jr. and Tatum were up in Rodney Jr.'s room watching tv... or so I thought....

Yep, she cut off ALL her bangs! (and barbies hair). She had to climb on the toilet, on the sink, and open the medicine cabinet to get the scissors off of the top shelf. Just when I thought they were big enough to play by themselves.... UGH!!

My Steelers Baby (POTD)

2008-09-30T18:14:00.002+10:00

My Stange Kids (POTD)

2008-09-18T10:23:00.001+10:00

Need I say more???

For Grandma Fran

2008-09-14T18:53:00.007+10:00

This was a phone conversation between Tatum and my mom Fran. It's probably not much for all of you to watch but I always laugh when she talks to everyone on the phone and I wish that you could see her motions with her words. So, here you go grandma Fran....

Break Your Heart

2008-09-13T07:38:00.005+10:00

The 2nd day of the cold.

Poor little Tristan has had a terrible cold for 4 days now. Yesterday, after a long night of listening to him struggle to breathe, we decided to take him to the docs. Of course, they couldn't get him in to Pediatrics so they told me to take him to the ER because there have been a few cases of pneumonia recently. (I know, how do you get pneumonia in this heat!?) So, we took him in, and they did a chest x-ray on him. Rodney Jr. was so upset to see them put Tristan in this contraption that kept him still. It looked like a little torture device and although it probably wasn't comfortable, it looked worse than it actually was. Tristan didn't like it either though. But, you would never be able to tell if you weren't looking at his face because he has no voice.

The x-rays came back clear so after a breathing treatment, they sent him home. I went out and bought a humidifier and vicks plug-ins and put him in his own room for the night. I 'think' he slept through the night, (I would not be able to hear him cry if he woke up), and today he is back to better spirits although, I don't see any improvement with the congestion and the voice. Poor little guy. So, I wanted to share these video's with you so you can see what I've been going through the last few days. He's been breaking my heart!!

the 3rd day of the cold (yesterday)

Update

2008-09-09T18:01:00.001+10:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that I updated my photography site and will be continuing to do so in the next few days...

My Little Pink TuTu

2008-09-08T08:14:00.004+10:00

I wanted to shoot some newborn photos for my friend Cassandra's new baby Cameron and I had an idea of wanting to do some Tutu pictures. BUT, tutu's are pretty expensive. So, I bought some pink taffeta for $3 and grabbed an old headband and HOPED that I could put something together that resembled a tutu. We did the photo shoot yesterday and here are the results... I'll be posting more pics on my photography website later today when Rodney Jr. is in school.

Rodney Jr.'s First Day of School

2008-09-07T08:14:00.008+10:00

William C. McCool School

On Friday Rodney Jr. had his first day of Pre-K. He has been SOOOO excited to go for months! Ever since I've been telling him that he will be starting school in a 'few months', thats all he's been talking about. They just built the new school on base this year so, he will be among the first students to go to this new school!

We were lucky that all of us were able to take him. He goes from 12pm to 230pm. Rodney was home for lunch, (and since it was a Friday, he was home the rest of the day too.) I'm excited that school started because it gets Rodney Jr.'s mind off of soccer. (we can't play this season because we missed sign-ups and since there is only one coach for his age group, there are no more spots.) Rodney wishes that he could fill in as a coach but it's really not possible with his knee right now.

Rodney Jr. had fun his first day. He's anxious to get back!! He was mean to Tatum when we picked him up though. She was so excited to see him but he just ignored her and looked out the window. Like he was too good for her now. Poor girl.

Rodney Jr. walking into the school.

Rodney Jr. in front of his class room door.

Rodney Jr.'s friend Phillip. They get to be in the same class!

Tatum looks mad, doesn't she?

I was supposed to be leaving the room but, I stole the camera from Rodney and took a picture of Rodney Jr. sitting in his seat. I had a 'Mom' moment. haha.
Rodney Jr. walking to the car after school.

Happy Birthday Tatum!!

2008-09-02T08:31:00.015+10:00

We celebrated Tatum's 3rd birthday this weekend. Her party was on Sunday. We didn't have any kids show up until a little later when Rodney's friend (our neighbors), brought their kids over after another b-day party. So, when we realized no one else was coming, I let Tatum and Rodney get in their bathing suits and have fun in her new pool. Rodney kept going down the slide then getting out and going down again, Tatum was content just swimming in the pool. They had a blast which really made me feel good. She got a lot of gifts. I didnt' get a chance to wrap all of her gifts the night before so, after she went to bed I wrapped the rest of them and she got to open them the morning of her birthday.

Just throwing in a pic of me.
I didn't make her cake. I was happy to let the commissary do it and it was delicious!
Waiting for everyone to come.

Tatum relaxing in her new pool.

Rodney doing the 'superman' down the slide.
Tristan enjoying a cookie.
Tristan enjoying another cookie.

I was SO ready for bed!!

This was from Tatum's birthday morning. Her new dress from Aunt Amanda.
All ready for school now! Thanks Gram Karen and Pap Pap Nick!

Daddy decided to treat her to some ice cream. We were going to head for Cold Stone but it looked like it was going to rain. (the seating is outside). So, we went to Dreyers instead. (Like Breyers but the container looks like Eddy's)

Monster Baby (POTD)

2008-08-28T19:57:00.000+10:00

This is what I have to put up with every day!! :c)

Slacker

2008-08-27T20:39:00.002+10:00

Ok, I know I've been slacking on my 'POTD' but, I've been really organizing the house lately so I can free up some time on a regular basis. I don't have any pics today because the camera is out in the car and I REALLY don't feel like going out to get it. But, thought I would fill you in on some things...
As you already know, Rodney Jr. starts school on the 5th. He's going to be in the afternoon class and he's lucky that he already has some friends who will be in there with him! He's getting really excited and keeps saying.. "But, Mommy, it's going to be a long time!!" He thinks everything will take a long time these days.
As for Tristan, I am now being told that he will NOT have the surgery until he's atleast a year old. The new Urologist will not do the surgery before then which, in some ways makes me happy but, I also feel bad for him for waiting that long. Poor guy isn't going to want to run around for a couple of days!! So, no more news on that for a while.
Tatum is doing so so on the potty. She still has more accidents than I would like but, atleast we're not using as many diapers lately!
Rodney should be back on the boat by the end of October when the ship gets back from a long underway. He has to miss out on three ports that he would like to go to but, he's happy that he will be here for our first set of visitors. It worked out perfectly! He's really anxious to get back on the ship and to get back to 'real' work.
As for me, still feeling 'eh' but I have more good days than bad lately. One ultrasound came back fine, the other showed that I have a slightly enlarged liver. Still not sure what that means, if anything, and I will find out at the end of Sept. The doctor who read me the results really wasn't privledged to tell me since it's not his field but, I begged him to tell me anyways. He did, but told me to make an appointment with my primary care to discuss it further. I'm not too worried, he didn't seem to worried either so, we shall see!!
My van just left Pittsburgh today (6 weeks late), so cross your fingers that it will be here in time to greet my parents at the airport!

Meeting Cameron

2008-08-25T06:32:00.002+10:00

On Thursday we had the pleasure of meeting little Cameron. I already took pictures of her in her mommy's belly but, she was a lot of fun to take pictures of in person and I can't wait to take more! Right now, she looks like her daddy. He smiled and said "I have my little Korean baby". Mom, however, is a little worried that everyone will think that she was adopted. haha. Mom and Dad are happy and everyone is healthy.

Tatum was being a little too quiet and when I found her, this is what she was doing.

The Next Photographer??

2008-08-21T13:47:00.003+10:00

Last night Rodney and I both stepped outside for a few minutes while Rodney Jr. was still awake. Rodney started to see flashes of light coming from inside of the house and when we came in we realized that Rodney Jr. got Rodney's camera out of the case, turned it on, and started to take pictures. Just thought I would share the pictures that he took.

When the kids woke up from their nap today, I made them a PB&J and then went outside so Finn could go potty. I came in to find than Tristan stood up at the table, stole Rodney Jr's PB&J and started to eat it... I probably would have let him have it if it wasn't peanut butter.

Sleepy (POTD)

2008-08-20T14:57:00.001+10:00

I found them like this watching cartoons together.
Yes, he is sleeping.

Famous Quote

2008-08-19T15:01:00.000+10:00

"If I hear myself fart, I go to the bathroom", Rodney Jr.

Ouch!!!

2008-08-18T20:59:00.003+10:00

Two days ago Rodney went outside to let Finn out. Tristan went over to the door and stood up to see his daddy and the next thing I know, he's laughing, then crying. I went over because I figured he just fell again, he's not too steady on his feet yet... But, when I picked him up, I was surprised to see a huge black and blue knot on his head. It stuck out about 1/2 and inch to an inch. As soon as I picked him up he stopped crying. I would have cried for a while if I had a knot on my head like that! He's my little tough guy! And of course, as soon as he saw the camera, his smile came on and he wanted to pose! I couldn't get a side angle because he just kept turning his head towards me. He's ok now. Still black and blue and just a little bit of a bump but it doesn't stop him from trying to stand up anywhere he can!! I've got my hands full with this one!!! But, I love it!!!

We kept Tatum up during her nap time because we needed to run a few errands... it didn't take her long to fall asleep in the car.

Caught

2008-08-14T17:54:00.002+10:00

All the kids were playing together in the play room this morning and Rodney came running into the living room to tell me that Tristan was on the bus. I didn't know what he meant but, I went in there and this is what I found.....

Shake Your Body

2008-08-13T19:28:00.003+10:00

What I'm Working On (POTD)

2008-08-12T13:54:00.003+10:00

A little more than 2 weeks ago I did a photo shoot with my friend Cassandra to showcase her very pregnant belly. It was really cloudy and gray that day so I've been working on editing the pictures to make it seem like it was sunny. It's not so easy! I don't even think I'm halfway through all of the pictures yet! Poor girl is probably so anxious to see them! Anyways, here's the last one I edited. I'll show more when I get them all done!

Cassandra 38 weeks pregnant.

Take Me To School (POTD)

2008-08-12T07:02:00.002+10:00

I tried to catch Tristan driving the bus and beeping the horn but he stood up before I could get over there with the camera.
He smiles anytime he sees the camera. He's going to be my model!!
Rodney Jr.'s new favorite instrument. He finds it first thing in the morning and doesn't put it down until bed time. (He even keeps it next to him while he's eating.) The next Blue's Traveler?? Maybe!?

Tristan's Hat (POTD)

2008-08-09T20:15:00.005+10:00

Yesterday Rodney put Wolf's (Gene's) hat on Tristan's head. It was so cute the way he just left it there and started scooting his way around the house with it. He only paused when it slid down over his eyes, then he would pull his head back so it would slid into place again.
Rodney Jr. starts school on September 5th. (I'm not sure if I've posted that yet or not). Luckily, we don't need uniforms this year since he will only have 2 1/2 hour days. But, they gave us a big long list of supplies to buy for him and the rest of the class. It's crazy!
Tatum has been doing really well on the potty. No accidents in her underwear for a couple of days. The last accident was poo so, I didn't get too mad at her. I figured it would take a little longer for her to figure that one out. We still put her in pull ups for naps and bed time though.

He loves the camera. He was trying to get it from me the whole time!

Missing someone gets easier every day because even though it's one day further from the last time you saw each other, it's one day closer to the next time you will. ~Author Unknown

Photo Of The Day

2008-08-08T13:16:00.004+10:00

I have been asked to implement a 'Photo of the Day' from now on so that everyone will have atleast one picture to look at every day. I GUESS I can try to accomplish that. :c)

Tristan is about to pounce on Rodney
Tristan wants to fish too!!
I found a lot of pictures from last night, after I went to bed.... this is the most decent one! haha. Boys will be boys I guess!!

Fun With Props

2008-08-01T15:02:00.004+10:00

Yesterday I went to the craft store and bought some fabric so, today I decided to try to take the brother/sister pics... again... Didn't work so well but, it was still fun and I got a few good shots...

Tristan pulled Tatum's hair so, that ruined the rest of the pictures.
This just looks silly to me. Look at Tristan's double chin!! :c)

Tristan's Two Teeth

2008-07-30T16:10:00.003+10:00

Tristan was having some fun showing off his teeth today so I took my chance to capture them on camera. More might be coming soon because his fingers are ALWAYS in his mouth and he's been quite fussy.
Big news for Tatum!!! She went pee pee on the potty last night! She wouldn't go this morning or most of today but she finally gave in and went. (Then about 15 minutes later she pooed herself and peed on my floor but..) Hopefully we'll keep having success! I'm really tired of changing so many diapers! Rodney keeps threatening her that she's not getting any birthday presents if she's not going pee in the potty by her birthday! ( I would never let him do that but, she fights him on it.)

Hiding his teeth...
There they are!!!

Funny face.
My messy children looking like they're in pain!! haha

Who Am I?

2008-07-29T16:20:00.004+10:00

I got this as an email but decided to post it on here.....

WHO ARE YOU???

( x) Gone on a blind date
( X ) Skipped school
( ) Watched someone die
(x ) Been to Canada
( ) Been to Mexico
(X) Been to Florida
( ) Been to the Caribbean
( x) Been overseas
( x ) Been on a plane
( ) Jumped out of a plane
(x ) Been on a helicopter
( x ) Been on a train
( x ) Been lost
( x) Been on the opposite side of the country
( ) Gone to Washington , D.C.
( x ) Swam in the ocean
( x ) Cried your self to sleep
( x) Played cops and robbers
( x) Recently colored with crayons
( x ) Sang Karaoke
( X ) Paid for a meal with coins only
( x ) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't
( x ) Made prank phone calls
(X ) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
(X) Caught a snowflake on your tongue
( x ) Danced in the rain
(x ) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(X) Been kissed under the mistletoe
( x ) Watched the sunrise with someone you care about or love
(X) Blown bubbles
(X ) Gone ice skating
( ) Gone snow or water Skiing
(X) Gone to the movies
1. Any nickname? Cole
2. Mother's name? Fran
3. Favorite soft drink? does iced tea count?
4. Tattoo? yes
5. Body Piercings? ears only
6. How much do you love your job? love it!
7. Favorite vacation? going to a lake
8. Favorite TV Program? I have way too many to list... currently, its So You Think You
Can Dance
9. Ever been to Africa ? no
10. Ever eaten cookies for dinner? probably
11. Ever been on TV? no
12. Ever steal any traffic sign? yes
13. Ever been in a car accident? Yes
14. Drive a 2-door or 4-door vehicle? 4 door
15. Favorite salad dressing? French
16. Favorite pie? pumpkin
17. Favorite number(s)? 5 and 3
18. All Time Favorite Movie? Pride and Prejudice
19. Favorite holiday? Christmas
20. Favorite dessert? Ice cream
21. Favorite food? pasta
22. Favorite day of the week? Friday
23. Favorite Brand of Body Wash ? Dove
24. Favorite toothpaste? crest
25. Favorite smell? coffee
26. What do you do to relax? read or watch tv
27. Favorite Sport? football
28. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? back in the states! (Rodney will be retiring!)
29. Furthest place you will send this message? to the states
30. Who will respond to this the fastest? No idea

Bloggers.... repost this in your blog and fill in the answers that pertain to you!

He's Growing Up!

2008-07-28T12:06:00.002+10:00

As I was putting dishes away this morning, Tristan army crawled his way in to keep me company. The next thing I know, he's standing up at the dishwasher. I guess he wanted to help? It's hard to believe that its only been 8 months since I was walking up and down the street hoping to go into labor with him! My baby is getting so big!

p.s... he got his second tooth in yesterday!!!

Seeing the Fishies

2008-07-25T13:44:00.004+10:00

The last few weekends have been busy but, for Rodney and I. So, we wanted to take the kids out for a day to do things that they wanted to do. We decided to go to Underwater World since we bought a year pass there. They had fun as usual. I always feel so bad for Tatum because she's stuck in the stroller while Rodney gets to run around but, it's so hard for us to handle the two of them when one of them is not confined. Sounds horrible, I know! But, Tatum is quite the firecracker! They both had fun none-the-less!

Tristan was more aware this time and enjoyed watching the fish swim above him.
I wouldn't want to make this fish mad!
The newest attraction.. divers! haha
This picture is for my sister...
I'll be trying to get a better one but... atleast we managed to get a couple!

Me from A to Z

2008-07-23T08:11:00.002+10:00

Me from A to Z
A. Attached or single? Attached - this year will be our 5th anniversary!
B. Best friend? Amanda...miss her terribly!
C. Cake or pie? thats a tough one! But, I'd have to say Pie
D. Day of choice? Friday
E. Essential item? AIR CONDITIONING (had to steal your answer Amy!)
F. Favorite color? Green
G. Gummy bears or worms? Worms
H. Home town? Bentleyville, PA
I. Favorite indulgence? going out to eat.
J. January or July? July
K. Kids? I have three beautiful kids!
L. Life is not complete without? Love
M. Marriage date? The first one, October 14, 2003, the big wedding, October 15, 2005
N. Number of brothers and sisters? 1 sister, and 3 brothers
O. Oranges or Apples? Apples
P. Phobias? clowns, bugs (especially ones that bite), and snakes
Q. Quote? Cowboy Up
R. Reasons to smile? My kids
S. Season of choice? FALL
T. Tag 5 people – anyone can join in if you wish and PLEASE DO - the more the merrier!!
U. Unknown fact about me? I wanted to go to Nashville and become a singer
V. Vegetable? Potatoes... all kinds!
W. Worst habit? cracking my bones, and letting my laundry pile up
X. X-ray or ultrasound? Ultrasound – loved seeing my babies!
Y. Your favorite food? ITALIAN HOAGIES!!! That will be the FIRST thing I get when I get back to PA!!!
Z. Zodiac sign? Taurus

This was pulled from Amy's blog... if you have a blog... it's your turn!