{3boys & 3girls}

tug at my heart strings...

2011-01-21T09:33:00.000-08:00

Last night we enjoyed Corbins first middle school band concert. The emotion that ran over me just looking at my little man Corbie growing up in a blink. I couldnt help but slide back in my mind to a beautiful spring day before he was born. Matt, Kyler and I were a small family of 3 still... and walking to the Daffodil Parade. I remember how Corbin {in utero} would bounce all about while the marching band was playing... and here he stood before me almost 12! We could easily read emotion on his face too {something Im afraid I have passed on} We couldnt be more proud of him!

{Corbin is standing to the left playing the snare drum}

new year

2011-01-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

.... this new year brings new hopes dreams wishes for my children
.... always growing love for my love Mathew
I am a blessed girl that often needs to be reminded of what I do have

Happy New Year

am I over blogging?

2010-12-04T16:52:00.000-08:00

This is how I feel lately. Life if so busy. I rarely get chances to escape into all the lovely blogs I used to read religiously. While typing the last two sentences.... I have been interrupted and lost my train of thought 5 times! I am hoping things slow down and I can find the love I used to hold for blogging. As for now I will take these blog moments when I can grab them.

madsen and soon to be me...

2010-10-15T07:51:00.001-07:00

Just keep thinking positive... right? Click on the picture to enter yourself in this awesome giveaway!

women

2010-09-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

"Women can be hard on each other. We have insecurities and we say things and we hold standards for each other that sometimes aren't fair. We can talk about things we shouldn't talk about and do things we shouldn't do or maybe not help each other when we really should be doing more. But I believe in women and the amazing power we give each other. There are millions of amazing, inspiring, genuine women out there doing their best." one of my favorites
While quickly buzzing through a few of my treasured blogs this a.m. I was touched by these words...

last day of school traditions

2010-07-08T17:18:00.000-07:00

Cade and cousin Madysons last day as third graders

Always bitter-sweet to watch the 5th graders walk through the bubbles. Seems like just yesterday I was there watching Kyler and her friends ending their last day of elementary school. It was fun to see the excitement in Corbins eyes {and his out of control hair that day} ♥ the picture of the boys and little sister Ella stealing some of the flare. Corbin doing the secret hand shake with his teacher one last time as a 5th grader. Probably not his last... as I have seen this shake happen with older students who shared the same special year with Mr. B

da band

2010-07-08T17:03:00.000-07:00

Ella and cousin Lily were busy making band {the yellow leafs} hats and collecting instruments for their band. We marched around town....

guess who...

2010-07-08T17:00:00.000-07:00

feels so much lighter....
& ready for the summer heat...

my Corbin ♥

k-5....

2010-06-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

in a blink of an eye ♥

Off to middle school next year.
I am so proud of my little guy Corbin for....
your tender heart
you are amazing at every sport you play
smart
and your sense of humor cracks me up
just to name a few...
You should be so proud of yourself and the amazing person that you are ♥

my rose garden

2010-06-17T07:53:00.000-07:00

I am not a huge fan of roses.... but how can you resists these beauties. The smell always brings me back to playdates at a friends house... making rose petal perfume.... ahhhhh
My living room is filled with the scent of past childhood days ♥

twins

2010-06-16T17:41:00.000-07:00

After seeing a neighbors set of twins last week.... Ella has been obsessed with twins! She asked me if she could have one.... when she learned its not possible.... she wanted the next best thing. {lily}
When Lily was over to play Ella noticed she has the same undershirt as her and ran to change into black pants and her white undershirt. She continued to pull her hair out of its signature side pony and ribbon... and insisted I put it all in one back pony w/ a black clip on the side. {just like Lilys} It was too funny to not document with pictures ♥

birthday boys in pictures

2010-06-13T08:37:00.000-07:00

35 & 11..... seems like I just planned their 25th & 1st. Happy Birthday to my love Mathew and my eldest sweet son Corbin. ♥ ♥ ♥ u

Oh the fun we have....

♥ {love}

2010-05-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

this day...
the kids played...

and played....

Ella scoots by with her signature smile....

Oh and it was this ones 9th BIRTHDAY...

and we devoured this...

Just one of those days that I look back on.... and smile

one fancy farm girl...

2010-05-30T12:47:00.000-07:00

on her scooter

♥ this...

2010-05-26T19:19:00.000-07:00

{e & dog}

2010-05-08T08:29:00.000-07:00

{pictured by MC}

Ella has always had a soft spot for dogs & babies..... and since we will not be having anymore babies....
a dog maybe? What do you think? Can I handle this? Keep in mind....
4 kids...
1 big yummy kitty...
1 bunny named Rex....
9 hens.....

..... to be continued

{ella says...}

2010-04-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

Today Ella says to me... "when you hear STUMPING, say here comes a monster" Lets now add "stumping = stomping" to the list of famous words. As usual... I dont correct her {out of pure selfishness on my part} just in hopes to hear it again. Innocents... oh how I love when you show yourself through my children:)

{easter & chicks}

2010-04-04T18:22:00.000-07:00

One year ago we brought home 8 chicks and our mini farm ;) began{one for us all + my parents} Later we lost 2 roosters and gained my sisters 3 hens.... but thats another story. This is the first year we didnt dye Easter eggs... and I am yet to hear a complaint. Maybe it is because boiled eggs are not a rarity around here. Or the fact that we see many shades of green and brown eggs daily.... that the kids really didnt feel the need. I am reminded of how eggs are a symbol of rebirth on this Easter Sunday.... and all that has been given to us through Christ.
Wishing you and yours a blessed Easter!

{i've always wanted to be a farmgirl}

2010-04-03T13:29:00.000-07:00

A fancy farmgirl...
on a fancy farm...
with cows..
pigs..
chickens {of course}..
maybe a horse or two...
goats...
in a big old farmhouse {that Matt and I could work on}
some rolling pastures....
maybe a little brooke...
definitely a couple of barns {one for the animals and one for me to entertain}...
fruit trees....
berries...
and a big garden for Matt...

A girl can dream cant she...

{for my children}

2010-04-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Remember when you go into the world to keep your eyes and ears wide open
And be kind
Love one another
take care of each other
tell the truth
always do your best
Listen to the big people and the little people
explore new paths
have fun
know that you are LOVED like crazy
give thanks for all your blessings
above all else, love and you will do wonderful things in this world.

~found this while I was deep into blogland

{what a picture speaks}

2010-03-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

mario~ This is what my children say when they put on fake mustaches. Can you blame them?

This {late start school day} morning... I got around to downloading pictures from my camera. I ran across this one and remembered how much fun we had wearing the mustaches that night. I bought them back in November with the brilliant idea of wearing them in our Christmas card picture {that we never got around to}.
Look at how serious my almost 11 year old Corbin is {with a bit of fuzzy mustache about his shirt} I believe it is because I asked him to stand next to his little sister.... who apparently has cooties.
And I LOVE how my Ella is standing with such love for her brother for completely the same reasons {that I asked her to stand with her older brother}.
What happens between 5 & 11 that showing love for your sibling is so difficult?

{ella}

2010-03-16T21:13:00.001-07:00

Ella tells us tonight " Mama goats have beards"
We went on a special field trip to the Puyallup Fair School today.

{reminded}

2010-03-16T21:11:00.000-07:00

Today I got an email that reminded me of this post on my blog. He found me through google... but it reminded me of why I started blogging. {to connect with others} Thank you:)
FAMOUS WORDS

10.15.08
~Ella's says... "hitty-up" for "giddy-up"

10.08.08
~Grandma Pat sent a special package... Ella chose a little school set. She especially loves the "crackulator"= calculator. It was so special that Ella takes the crackulator everywhere... even to bed with her!

10.02.08
~My legs have been soar from running(finally a good soar)... so I might have mentioned it once or twice within ear shot of Ella. So.... she will say to me... "Mom, are your legs sword?" I think it is so funny :)

9.06.08
~Getting ready for Lily's 2nd birthday party...I asked the boys to get cleaned up...Cade replies "I'm NOT DIRTY...I'm TAN"

9.08
~Ella..."Mom!...pretend your my friend!"

over the summer
~Cade asked Matt and I one night...." if he was black?" LOL:)

8.7.08
~While enjoying carmels out of the bag Ella says.... " someone put their popcycle sticks in here!"

6.9.08
~Ella mixes up busy and dizzy. So she will ask me if Im too dizzy sometimes:)

~Cade has been asking to take a lot of showers lately. He told me his hair is growing faster because he has been watering it in the shower:) I buzzed the boys hair a couple of weeks ago- they dont love it.

~Some of the words Ella says her own way and I dont correct her because it is just too cute.
musgic=music
stirn it= stir it

~On the way to Costco today Ella says "I bet Dad is missing me"

~I overheard Cade telling Corbin this morning "If your hot, ladies love you"

~While sleeping over at our good friends the Wilkins, Corbin says "Isnt it cool how you can talk with your eyes closed". Shortly after this statement, I was told they fell asleep:)

{ms. private part 2}

2010-02-23T09:49:00.000-08:00

In trying to go private I realized I need your email address {I think} If I am wrong please fill me in. But... you know who you are {my peeps who want to continue to read} You can email me @ amykristencarlson@gmail.com.

{ms. private}

2010-02-13T15:30:00.000-08:00

I had a dream last night that my blog went private.....
and it has been my experience to listen....

So if you would like to continue reading my {what have become sparse} posts.... please leave a comment.

Dont be shy blog stalkers.... I know you are out there.

{we call her}

2010-02-13T15:19:00.000-08:00

.... the baby
........ sassypants
........ Ella Bella
...... snickerdoodle
.... the big 5year old

................................. Love ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Can hardly believe my baby is 5. We love you Ella !!

{13}

2010-01-05T15:08:00.000-08:00

Beautiful years with our Kyler Sage. 13 things about you this year are....
1. You are always so kind to your friends.
2. I love how responsible you are becoming. Getting yourself up and ready for school everyday.... most before I get up. Babysitting... and earning your own $$ {feels good}
3. Your laughter is contagious! {you get that from your father}
4. You have really grown as a volleyball player.... and you have the most powerful serve!
5. You love to shop {you get that from me and your father.... uh-0}
6. Taking care of your room is never a battle anymore.
7. We are lucky to have such a bright girl.... Your dad and I never have to help you with school.... I ♥ this!
8. It means alot to us when you babysit your siblings so we can go out on a date. Thank you!
9. You are great at talking smack while playing someone on the wii.
10. You have taught yourself how to wear eye shadow wonderfully.... I need some pointers.
11. You like to bake brownies for the family as often as I let you.
12. I like to see you being kind to your sister.... as she gets older you will cherish your bond.
13. I am so proud of how you have maintained who YOU are.... and not changed for others.

Always remember how you are loved!

{Corbin played "Happy Birthday" to Kyler on his electric guitar}

{a year in pictures}

2009-12-31T12:36:00.000-08:00

The first picture with my new camera {with some help with my photographer BFF}

Ella's 4th Birthday!

Corbin on the left making an awesome catch playing flag football.

Mr. Cade's 8th Birthday!

Mathew and Corbin's Birthday!

Matt finished the chicken coop.

On our trip to the beach house over the 4th.

Had to say goodbye to 2 roosters :(

My baby went to preschool.

The family went apple picking.

My Mothers Birthday.

Christmas

{our little town}

2009-12-19T18:47:00.000-08:00

Check out Sumner on youtube HERE

{my heart aches for this}

2009-12-13T22:40:00.000-08:00

.... and the many more I have been searching through tonight. I know I say this often... but how fast the years have gone. What seems like yesterday in a picture is a mere memory of a busy day gone by. The days I thought would never end... are slipping through my fingers faster than I could ever imagined. Oh how I wish to see these two sit and be entertained together..... instead of arguing about who isnt being quiet.

{need a little christmas}

2009-12-09T16:50:00.000-08:00

Right this very minute!

The temps have been in the teens and have slowly come to a high of 30 degrees today. If only the clouds would roll in.... we would have some of the white stuff!

{Im back}

2009-12-01T21:56:00.000-08:00

Oh how I know you have been anxiously awaiting to hear those 2 words my dear loyal readers;)
I am not sure how it happened.....
one day turned into 2....
weeks....
and even months went swiftly by.
But I am back...
and am hoping to breath new life into my somewhat neglected blog.
It was truly sad...
how it sat....
unatended....
no pictures....
not a word.

{trying out something new}

2009-11-23T07:28:00.001-08:00

{BOO}

2009-11-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

{in my 30's I feel}

2009-10-16T07:11:00.000-07:00

While reading one of my favorites today {here} I felt compelled to share a few of her words that spoke to me.....

...And here is the mashed potatoes to go with Lucinda's meat: when I hear women say "I used to be this or that" or "My brain has gone to mush because . . ." because they've had babies, or because they've devoted their lives to other people, or because they've crossed the line of girl to woman, I always think It won't happen to me. Please, don't let it happen to me. But I see now how it happens. Big dreams seem too distracting, physical energy turns into spiritual examination, gray hairs appear. You change, dang it, you just do.

But perhaps it is all in the wording:

My ability to be clever has turned itself into an ability to be wise.

I have trained my brain to assess the needs of others before my own.

My charm comes from not feeling pressure to be charming.

I prefer the simple life. The life I have now.
{cjane}

{the goings on}

2009-09-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

It is too hard to catch up on my blogging when you have fallen behind like I .... So here is a window of my life in pictures and some chit-chat ;) to catch up.

I have finished a few painting projects....
My dining room table and chairs

White to my kitchen hutch....

and finished the fence outside with a little help from Corbin and Ella.

Celebrated....

My grandfathers 85th Birthday...

Ellas first day of pre-school....

and the older 3 were off to school of course {grin} I am so bad for not taking their picture. Thought of taking it and passing it off as the first day.... might still have to do that {wink}

Alot of this

the egg collecting is never old around here.... the kids love it. I think they were most excited to check out the chickens at the fair when we went last Saturday. This new excitement over something they are familar with was fun to see.

We have all enjoyed having a garden this year as well. Here is a taste of our bounty....

and...

we have some large pumpkins this year.

{goodbye Summer}

2009-09-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

Oh the fun we've had....

From backyard play...

To trips to the beach....

Good laughs....

a plenty.

{going private.... maybe not}

2009-09-06T15:12:00.000-07:00

Keep up with me and mine here.... may be a few changes.... but we are staying.

{falling behind}

2009-09-06T14:58:00.001-07:00

Big time....

On August 31st my little niece Lily turned 3....
Oh how she has changed our lives and the lives of others in those 3 short years. Wishing you the happiest of birthday sweet Lily pants.

A mere 2 days earlier on the 29th my niece Madyson turned a big 8 years old....
Time sure flies. I remember the day she was born like it was yesterday. The anticipation of who she would look like. The excitement for her and my Cade to interact being only a small 4month apart. This year will prove to be another exciting year for Cade and Madyson are in the same class. Happy be-lated Birthday Madyson.... we love you.

{going private}

2009-08-28T12:04:00.001-07:00

This is something I have been thinking about for a long time.... now it is going to happen. I started my blog as a journal for my family... so if you are a regular reader and would like to keep up with the family leave me a comment and I will make sure you are on the list;)

{day hike}

2009-08-27T18:23:00.001-07:00

We took the kids to climb pinnacle peak out of Enumclaw today. This was our first and their first so we didnt quite know what to expect. All we knew was it was a steep hike up and then straight back down. So as we started we werent positive if Ella would make it. This was an awesome workout! We all made it to the top about 40min later.... few stops for water and pics. I was so proud of the kids for making it all the way {especially little miss 4year old} she is a trooper.... and always wanting to keep up. The competitive spirit of my 4 still amazes me:)

~Matt and I at the top~

~Thought this was cool how the light was shinning through the thick trees.
We had such a good time.... it is these moments that I will fondly think on as the kids head off to school in less than 2 weeks.

{dinner in}

2009-08-21T17:44:00.000-07:00

Just a little of what we've been eating here at home.... courtesy of my amazing husband. This was so out of this world.... and I dont even love shrimp!

{reflection}

2009-08-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

I have been absent for my days have been filled with.....

Sun... glorious sun:)

Swimming in the backyard pool

Keeping up with family and friends

Bike rides through town

Drive in movies

Hula Hoops

Laughter

Back to school shopping {grin}

Of course... yelling at the top of my lungs at a few littles that dont hear me unless I raise my voice! {It cant all be glorious} ;)

Drinking lots of coffee

Reflecting on another Summer that has seemed to fly by faster than the previous....

What have are you filling your days with?

{facebook gets all my time}

2009-07-25T11:03:00.000-07:00

During these lazy days of summer.... while much is soaring bye.... I have neglected my blog for more Facebook! {gasp} I know {gasp again}

Facebook is....

less demanding of my words.....

instant communication....

easy breezy....

I am sorry dear blog.... but you may just have to wait. You see there are only 44 more days of my summer break.... and my kids wont wait!!

BTW...I would love it if you would leave me a comment if you are on FB and would like to be friends ;)

{2 roosters}

2009-07-18T23:57:00.000-07:00

It was a sad night here on the Carlson farm :( We said good-bye to our 2 roosters. The kids all said their good-byes to Gavin and Henry.... I snapped a few pictures..... Kyler shed MANY tears. It is heart wrenching watching the kids getting emotional over their good-byes.... so much so that I could not sleep.

Ella and Gavin

Kyler and Gavin

Henry.

Kyler asks that they be taken care of on a farm.... with lots of food and water.... lots of room to run around.... and lots of new friends to be their family :) This is my wish too!

{reason # 234}

2009-07-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

I live in a score....54

I totally think I should be ranked more walkable.... how walkable are you?

What makes a neighborhood walkable?

A center: Walkable neighborhoods have a discernable center, whether it's a shopping district, a main street, or a public space.
Density: The neighborhood is compact enough for local businesses to flourish and for public transportation to run frequently.
Mixed income, mixed use: Housing is provided for everyone who works in the neighborhood: young and old, singles and families, rich and poor. Businesses and residences are located near each other.
Parks and public space: There are plenty of public places to gather and play.
Pedestrian-centric design: Buildings are placed close to the street to cater to foot traffic, with parking lots relegated to the back.
Nearby schools and workplaces: Schools and workplaces are close enough that most residents can walk from their homes.

{2 out of 8}

2009-07-13T13:33:00.000-07:00

{Henry @ 7 weeks}

Roosters that is. We have 2!! Henrieta is now Henry. We dont know what we are doing yet. Do we keep one.... or sell them both on Craigslist. Henry is a Silver Americana and very pretty.... but unfortunately has a feisty attitude. Mr. Gavin is a bit submissive and a easy going Rhode Island Red. I am not even sure we are keeping either.

Any advise??

Cade and Gavin

2009-07-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

Yes that is a pet chicken! Dont know how much longer we can keep Mr. Gavin.... as he has started getting his voice early in the a.m.

{Happy Be-lated Birthday to my little sister Sally}

2009-06-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

My youngest sister Sally turned 25 yesterday..... in Vegas! Surrounded by her boyfriend Ryan... many friends... and well wishers I am sure. This is how Sally lives... always on the go.... something fun planned.... somewhere to go... dancing the night away {wink Sal} I secretly live vicariously through her {wink again} It makes my heart soar to know how she is loved. Hope your 25th birthday was as memorable and fabulous as you are little sister:) I love you.

{13 years of bliss}

2009-06-23T08:28:00.000-07:00

Love you Mathew

{belated Fathers Day wish}

2009-06-22T16:51:00.001-07:00

This crazy month of June is just tooooo full. I missed Fathers Day in blogland... but not in real life {phew} We celebrated my father on Sat. and my Mathew Sunday morning and evening. He was off to work during the day hours. It was nice for all to talk with my Father in law over {Skype} Sunday evening. So all the bases are covered and I can sleep:)

BTW Sara.... totally stole this adorable vintage Fathers Day picture from you.... too cute:)

{Birthday wishes for Kate}

2009-06-20T08:57:00.001-07:00

I remember sitting on the front stoop of our house with Alison and my Father.... talking about our new baby sister that was coming home. Our father was cleaning out a {car seat I believe} for you to be brought home in. I remember thinking who this little sister was going to be... what would she look like.... what was she going to do? {I was 5} Little did I know.... Kate would be....

the little baby in the bassinet that I would sneak into my parents room and sing to...

a fun toddler that I remember saying "pizza and pop" while rubbing her belly, we all laughed..

sweet and quiet... and easily made to cry {sorry for that one sister}....

a playmate... until Sally was old enough to play.... and I too old...

a taker of my things. I could always find anything that was missing under Katies bed...

Now my sister Kate is all grown up with a family of her own. I am lucky to have her so close {in the same town} Our children see each other often and can make wonderful memories of their own childhood close to cousins.

We love you Katie and are wishing you a Happy Birthday :)

{fresh}

2009-06-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

The air is FRESH today. We are having the first rain in almost a whole month. I stepped out this morning to a breath of fresh air.... oh so lovely.

Today is also our FRESH start to summer. New schedules.... new activities.... new things to discover this summer vacation.

I look forward to eating all the FRESH veggies from our garden this summer.

There is nothing like a FRESH start.....

{wordless wednesday}

2009-06-17T09:06:00.000-07:00

{oh how I enjoy her words}

2009-06-15T13:59:00.000-07:00

Click here to read some sweet words.

{my father}

2009-06-14T13:09:00.000-07:00

My sister wrote such a touching post to my father. You can visit her blog by clicking on {sister}. As much as I struggle with daily stresses.... I am blessed.... truly blessed to have had and have an amazing family and wonderful friends.

{60 years}

2009-06-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

Ago my father was the first born child to my grandparents. The first of two boys. I never got to know my grandfather... and have few sweet memories of my grandmother. There is little to know about my father as a baby... child... young adult. This is why I hold dear to the many pictures his parents took. Its my little window to the past. I try to imagine the camping trips... that the pictures seem to capture so much adventure and love. The family gatherings.... the hand holding... the hugs.... the smiles. These images are my thread to my fathers childhood. The sadness the pictures speak to me of my father, his brother and his mother after my grandfather passes away. Pictures of my grandmother smiling and holding me... her first grandchild. Family History in pictures:)

Happy Birthday Dad. We love you.

{this spoke to me today}

2009-06-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

Philippians 4:8
whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things.

{rose}

2009-06-11T07:33:00.001-07:00

{beach feet}

2009-06-09T16:21:00.001-07:00

got the itch? i do:)

{chalkboard}

2009-06-08T07:39:00.001-07:00

I am posting this picture for my friend Simple Beauty :) She has started a fun coffee event on Sundays.... go check it out. Now I have to get a chalk pen for my big chalkboard I made last Summer.... how nice that will be.

{life}

2009-06-07T16:58:00.000-07:00

Dont you just Love spring!! The smell... the sun... the flowers.... ahhh I just cant get enough. I snapped this picture of the beautiful tree blossoms outside our old house almost 2 years ago. So pretty. My heart aches for a young mother {and family acquaintance} who passed away today.... completely unexpected. She leaves behind a husband and 2 small children. Please keep the family in your prayers...

{dont hate me...}

2009-06-06T17:48:00.001-07:00

cause I'm a winner!! I am sooooo excited about my new necklace:) Isnt it just the cutest ever?? Dont you just have to have one?? I was lucky enough to be the winner of this beauty over at Kristins blog giveaway last week. Be sure to check out her fabulous blog for some fun reading. But I have to give Lindsay a shout out for making this awesome necklace. Be sure to check out all her work at her etsy shop.... just click on her name. Thanks so much Lindsay... it is so pretty.

{good boy... Scout}

2009-06-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

Ella with my sister Sally's newest edition.... Scout:) Isnt he cute... he looks like a mini golden retriever to me... dont you think? Ahhh... my Ella loves her dogs. Guess I will have to get over dog poo !!!

{Happy Anniversary}

2009-06-04T18:14:00.001-07:00

to my sweet sis Kate and her awesome husband Tim.

{37 years}

2009-06-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad. 37 years ago this journey began.... we are so thankful it did:)

{wordless wednesday}

2009-06-03T13:59:00.001-07:00

{me today}

2009-06-02T18:02:00.000-07:00

Minus the snow... hats..... and scarfs. I imagine this crazy lady with children everywhere. Hand waving.... words spewing at one child..... another tugging on you. My words are not being heard... and I am tired... so tired of not being heard.

{ink & Ella}

2009-06-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

Last week Ella and I spent some time over at my sister Kate's house.... to our surprise we saw that Lily had {Sharpe} her arms earlier that morning. Now this is not the first time she has fancied the Sharpe on the skin.... I believe last time it involved her face :0. I really thought nothing of it. Well to my surprise yesterday while making some scentsy phone calls.... I returned to the office to find this! Funny how much a 2 year old niece can influence her 4 year old cousin. {at least it wasnt Sharpe}

{happy birthday}

2009-06-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

Sister:) Please dont be hating for the picture.... it is fitting of your personality.... {its time for good times}

Happy Birthday... we love you!

{memorial day}

2009-05-28T17:26:00.000-07:00

We spent my favorite part of a nice day outside at my parents house { aka... 7 doors down} The kids had a good time just being kids and playing in the lush green grass. There were bridges to be made...
relaxing for the camera....
being too cool....
little bridges....
and a cousin to play with:)

{a birthday for 2 in pictures}

2009-05-28T17:17:00.001-07:00

{favorite things giveaway}

2009-05-28T09:21:00.000-07:00

Enter to win a FREE blog makeover here..... http://thefaithfulfashionista.blogspot.com/ . Check out ..... http://aponderingheart.com/boutique/

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{finished}

2009-05-27T21:52:00.000-07:00

The coop is finally finished. We were able to use an existing building {in bad shape} and turn it into a fun chicken coop. The best part about the whole thing is that we never spent a penny on any materials. It all started with a trip to a couple of friends houses to pick up some unwanted materials.... and before we knew it it became our challenge to finish it with recycled lumber... unwanted chicken wire.... etc. It is even equipped with its own built in feeder.... sliding door {on a pulley system} to the outside run... the chicks should be so lucky:)

{hello}

2009-05-25T17:54:00.000-07:00

Seriously...
Hey look at me...
What?....

Fun with photobooth.....

{happy birthday to my boys}

2009-05-24T16:26:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of Mathew holding Corbin. What a birthday gift. Wishing you both a Happy Birthday.
Corbin helping Mathew when he was only 5 years old. Still love'n the spider man costume that was just hanging on by threads. As much as I think that you Corbin are like me and my family... I see some amazing qualities your father passed along to you. How lucky you two are to share your birthday with each other....

{makes my heart soar}

2009-05-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

Quote

YouTube - Mayo Clinic atrium piano, charming older couple...

{not such a sweet deal}

2009-05-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today my sister and her daughter Lily, Ella and I walked to our local Baskin Robins to partake of this sweet deal I posted about on Tuesday. Well..... as it turns out the pacific northwest does not offer soft serve in their stores :( Huge bummer!!! So I forked out the $2 for a Jr. scoop for the little lady. She was a happy camper. I am just glad I only had her with me.... I could have walked out with a much bigger bill with the 3 other loves!!! Just wanted to warm any of you out there incase you were going to head to your local BR for some soft serve.

{wordless wednesday}

2009-05-20T09:39:00.001-07:00

{deal}

2009-05-19T18:44:00.001-07:00

You might have already heard this.... but Baskin Robins is offering .88 cent soft serve cones until 5/25/09.... YEAH! Now if the sun would come back out.... I may take the little loves over for a sweet treat at a great price:)

{what?}

2009-05-19T14:23:00.001-07:00

T-Mobile Mom to Mom Quiz: "

Take the fun, Mom to Mom quiz and discover your parenting style.

{I LOVE silhouettes}

2009-05-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

My Family from WiddlyTinks.com

Isnt this fun? and free.... even better.

{dishwasher detergent}

2009-05-14T13:36:00.000-07:00

I would LOVE to find a dishwasher detergent that works without leaving anything in my glasses!!! The only one that I swear by is Cascade complete.... which I was just informed they are taking off the shelves. Does anybody have one they love... love... love? Ideally, I would like to use a natural soap, but too have not found one that takes care of business.
Btw... my dishwasher is only 2 years old.... a super nice one.... so I cant blame the machine. This is truly something I have noticed for years.... with many different machines.
Does anyone else have this problem?

{a day for mothers}

2009-05-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

I was treated to a Mothers Day poem in Corbins 4th grade class. This was really special to see my {otherwise nervous} Corbin get up in front of his whole class of {peers and their mothers} and recite a poem with motions. I was so proud of him:) He returned home with a bouquet of daffodils he won from the classroom drawing with a huge grin. Such a sweet memory.
Sat. was a sort-of Mothers Day break with Matt taking the kids to the park for a jaunt. It was lovely to have the house to myself and the sun was shinning to boot.
Sunday Mathew went to work after my Mothers Day breakfast of {Kylers cinnamon rolls...mango's.... and coffee} I was adorned with many cards and handmade lovlies from the children {this is my favorite part of the day} We were lucky to spend the day with all my sisters and theirs... my parents... my Grandparents... and my Aunt Marilyn. It was a wonderful way to spend my Sunday.

{I heart my beach cruiser}

2009-05-08T07:09:00.000-07:00

I know I have written about my cruiser before.... but added a link on the side today.... that reminded me of my good times on my cruiser. The tote in the back would have been handy with little ones....or whatever you need to tote with 4 kids!! What would you tote around on your Madsen? Check out the link on the side and you too can have your chance to win one!!!

{wordless wednesday}

2009-05-06T08:43:00.000-07:00

~boys fooling around at Grandma and Grandpas~

{old shed}

2009-05-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

This was harder than I thought to find a picture of the old shed.... which is currently the new coop. I always tried to crop it out of pictures... because I couldnt stand to see it. This picture doesnt do it much justice.... but the best I could find. The old roof was rotten wood and raggidiy old tarps {from the previous oweners} The paint was barely holding on.... the back had some rotted out pieces and an old lawnmower with vines grown up all around it. It was a sight for sore eyes. So here it is.... the best I could give you to compare. You do have to agree that the new coop is much more fun to look at. Check back with me in the HOT SUMMER and see if it is much more fun to smell though! EEEEEKKKKKK.

{fun friday}

2009-05-01T16:11:00.001-07:00

Took this picture last weekend at Cades birthday party.... he is less than thrilled that we made him wear this simply adorable crown Kyler made for him..... only for one picture. Cant believe he is 8 already.

{recycled coop}

2009-04-30T19:31:00.001-07:00

Ever since we moved into this house almost 2 years ago.... I have disliked the eye sore that WAS our "lawnmower shed" Last summer I almost went to town on hacking it to pieces.... but realized that was probly not a good idea.
Since getting the chicks... we decided we would turn this shed into the chicken coop. Well this week the chicks are really outgrowing their space in the plastic box we have kept them in since day one. So Matt went to work yesterday on fixing up the old shed. The best part about the whole thing is that we used all recycled material. Either lumber we had laying around from one of our many projects.... to the roofing material we got from Katie and Tim..... to some chicken wire and a gate from one of Matts friends. I gave it a fresh coat of paint today {also left over from our front door.... barn red} To the star I had laying around with no place to go. I am really pleased with how it has turned out. Matt still has to make the shelves and frame in a closed in run for the chicks.... but for now.... the chicks love the extra space...... and I love not hating to see the old ugly shed out my kitchen windows:)

Look how big the little chickies have gotton....

Isnt it fun to use stuff you already have around or can get for free.... especially these days. Is the economy effecting you and your family? What changes have you made?

{wordless wednesday}

2009-04-29T07:48:00.001-07:00

Can you guess what she is thinking?

{lost picture}

2009-04-28T09:05:00.000-07:00

I recently loaned my old camera to a friend. While she had it.... she noticed I had 11 pictures on it.... and didnt want to delete them. I was returned the camera yesterday and quickly downloaded the pictures. {Grin} Unbelievable.... all pictures of Ellas 2nd birthday.... and one of my father with Kyler and Ella last year on Fathers Day! These are priceless pictures.... each and everyone of them. I can only imagine if I had just thrown it away or put it in the drawer for a quick hide.... only to come across it later and throw it away. Now I am seriously going to find all those old rolls of film and disposables {the kids used} and make a Costco trip to develop them. Who knows what priceless images I will find:)

{wishing}

2009-04-23T07:01:00.001-07:00

Do you ever long for the sand.... even wet sand? A break from the ordinary... even a small one?
Thats where I have been.... {thanks Bunny for the gentle reminder}
No... I have not stuck my feet in the sand {wet or dry} this year.... but have taken a small blog-cation:) Life has been busy around the Carlson Farm {I kid}. Farm you ask? That is what my living room feels like at the moment. We have the addition of the 8 chicks... that are really starting to stink it up. I also have my garden starts sprawled across my dining room table. I have been preoccupied with Scentsy work... which is also taking up space in my dining room. Today we are going to till up the garden and hopefully get the {garden} out of my dining room. The chicks are going to have to stink it up somewhere else soon..... cause Mama has plans to reclaim her living and dining space this Friday {Bunco}
Spring has sprung.... and I am itching to feel the sand between my toes again {grin}

{more Matt than I thought}

2009-04-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

I have always thought my Corbin looked like me and my side {mostly old pictures of my father} Even when Mathews sisters would say how much he reminds them of Matt.... I would dismiss it..... Knowing of course they see their brother in him. But.... I have to admit I do see it. Especially through his eyes sometimes. They are just so pretty.... and have this sort-of sparkle. When Corbin was little.... he had {Stars} in his eyes. Laterally! the shapes of stars.... it was the coolest thing.

~Although he does have my hair! {This picture was taken at the Daffodil Parade.... I met Matt and the kids there after working at a Scentsy Event all day.... so that explains their SCRAPPYNESS! But the picture was too funny I had to share:)

{happy Easter}

2009-04-12T07:45:00.001-07:00

{Cade turns 8}

2009-04-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

The last 8 years have flown by. Maybe its because my Cade is #3.... so his 8 years are all meshed into everyone elses. Here is 8 pictures of Mr. Cade through the years...... Happy Birthday Cade!!!

Chubby little man.... always so happy.... and easy as can be.

Cade has a great little personality..

Mr. All American

Sledding in the mountains.... we had such a fun time as a family that day:)

Cade is a great brother to Ella...

Always the joker!

and to his big brother Corbin:) {isnt he the best...}

Cade spends a lot of time being silly. I love how he laughs {like his mother} and is able to laugh at himself:)

First day of second grade

We are all so lucky to have you in our family my sweet little Cade. You truly bring a smile to my face everyday:) We love you...

{added later}
I do realize I actually have 9 pictures.... oh well.... one extra to look at!

{more chicks}

2009-04-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

We went back to the local feed store here in town and picked up 4 more chicks. {americana} they will lay green and blue eggs... my favorite colored eggs. On Wed. we picked up 4 {rhode island reds} for the kids to pick one out each. Now the americanas are for Matt, myself, my mother and father {we are keeping 2 for them} Wow. I hope we havent got ourselves into to much here at the Carlson Farm ;)

{lookie what we are getting today}

2009-04-08T12:00:00.001-07:00

{spring break catch up}

2009-04-05T08:26:00.001-07:00

This past week has really gone so fast. The kids and I are enjoying our last day at home just {chill laxin} as Corbin would say:) Here are a few things that went on here....
~ took a trip to the zoo.... first time with the WHOLE family {us 6} since I was pregnant with Mr. Cade!!! Ella didnt even know what the zoo was {so sad how fast time goes when you are raising a family and have so many activities that your 4 yr old doesnt know what you do at a zoo!} We had a great time, despite the cold and rain. I have plenty of pics.... next time.
~birthday parties were attended
~Daffodil Parade.... in the sunshine! The best way to do it.
~movie nights at home {thanks to red box... gotta love that red box}
~My sister and I had our first bazaar together in Seattle. It was a bit discouraging... but am excited to be at the Spring Fair. {If you are going... be sure to stop by and visit me in the Convention Center}
~Did some slight spring cleaning... getting ready for Easter with the decorations.
~Planted some 50 flower bulbs or more with Ella:)
~Of course there was some playing outside in our yard {weather permitting}
~Parks with dad
~Swimming with dad
~Sister night.... it was my turn.... yeah.... thanks sisters:)
We managed to keep busy and enjoy our time at home this spring break.

{prayers}

2009-04-01T21:30:00.000-07:00

{I heart Washington State}

2009-03-27T11:46:00.001-07:00

THIS IS WHAT JEFF FOXWORTHY HAS TO SAY ABOUT LIVING IN WASHINGTON STATE :

If someone in a Home Depot store offers you assistance and they don't work there, you live in Washington .

If you've worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you live in Washington .

If you've had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed the wrong number, you live in Washington .

If you measure distance in hours, you live in Washington .

If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you live in Washington.

If you have switched from 'heat' to 'A/C' and back again in the same day, you live in Washington .

If you install security lights on your house and garage but leave both doors unlocked, you live in Washington .

If you can drive 75 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching, you live in Central, Southern or Eastern Washington .

If you design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over 8 layers of clothes, you live in Washington .

If the speed limit on the highway is 55 mph -- you're going 80, and everyone is still passing you, you live in Washington .

If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow and ice, you live in Washington .

If you know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, and road construction, you live in Washington .

If you actually understand these jokes and forward them to all your WASHINGTON friends, you live or have lived in Washington.