Good Morning All

So, it has been an awful long time since I have posted, but I am doing so to let y'all know that we are at Cassia Regional Medical Center. Olivia is okay. Her water broke at 1:00 am. She woke me at 3:00 am (I thought I had wet the bed...).

We are all checked in, the nurse, Linda, has put the monitors on. Baby Girl, herein referred to as "BG," has a good heartbeat and the contractions are about 5 minutes apart. Olivia just got her IV. She took it like a champ.

I will try to keep y'all updated, likely I will use both this blog and FB.

In the mean time if anyone has any good girl names, let us know. We have some ideas, but we're not too sure. Maybe when BG gets here, we'll know.

Very Quickly...

We're alive and doing well. Since April we have:

• Celebrated Harrison's 2nd Birthday
• Gone to the library and (indoor) pool 4 days of the week
• Taken lots of short weekend trips, mostly for family occasions
• Visited Moscow for a day and ate the best BBQ in the world
• Continually been amused and baffled by peoples stupidity
• Been extremely blessed with good health and safety
• Felt and experienced lots of changes with the new baby

I am exactly 30 weeks today and can hardly stand it! My hands and feet swell on and off, but continuously feel like fire all. the. time. I sleep without covers with the fan on high while Mac is wrapped in the quilt.

Harrison's vocal vocabulary is finally exploding and I am so happy that he is better learning to communicate with us. He's not forming short phrases or sentences often which concerns me, and he often talks just through his lips without moving the rest of his jaw and mouth. He also no longer cries when I set him on the potty. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel!

Mac stays busy with work. Because of the (finally) warm weather, he's been roping a lot more. He also went to Reno with his Dad and friend Clint for the Reno Rodeo and Bob Fiest Invitational (200 of the Worlds Best Team Ropers) for Fathers Day. We're glad he had a great time, but also very glad to have him home even though he was only gone for three days :)

The View From Above....

... Is getting quite large. At least I feel that way.



It's also a girl! YAY!!!!



We are very excited to have one of each. I'm still trying to get my head to believe it, but it will happen soon enough. I am also very excited for all the clothes! There are a few families in our ward that had baby girls last year, and each family is done with having babies. So they've asked me to be the recipient of tons of clothes! I am, however, still going to be shopping :)
Just don't tell McCord...

I ain't as young as I used to be.

I realize that I am still pretty young, but, crud I don't feel young right now. It will be midnight before I finish this post. Olivia and Harrison are fast asleep, but I can't sleep. I had a couple of good wrecks today while riding Forrest and roping. One involved some good bucking and my untimely exit from the saddle. The other involved a steer being underneath us then Forrest being on top of me, particularly my left leg. Nothing is broken, I am pretty sure, but my left calf is sore enough to make me limp a bit. The first incident put me down on my right shoulder and the second I came down on my left leg, so I think all of me will be pretty stiff and sore tomorrow.
I ate some food so I can take some pain medication that I had left over from Law Skool, don't remind me of the hazards of taking old medicine, this stuff works great on pain and knocks me out.
The words of my dad kinda made me think: "You know, when those wrecks are happening, you can't say anything, but if a guy can walk away, its pretty easy to joke about." I am really glad I walked away. Dad promptly asked me why I didn't fill in my divot. Uncle Reed was there too and he had some wise cracks to offer. Its just amazing that no one in our family has made a career as a stand up comedian...
For those of you who don't know, I practice law with a gentleman who is 83 years old. He and I were talking about life insurance one day and he told me I better have a good plan if I keep riding "those damn horses." At one point we joked about me dying before him because of my desire to ride.
Well, here in a while I am going to have to get up from bed and I will, but I might be rolling out of bed and onto the floor instead of my usual "hopping out of bed." Lets just hope I can still do the roll...

Four Years! - The Celebration

On February 24th, 2011 McCord and I celebrated our anniversary. It goes by so fast! I know four years seems simple, and for most, it is. But considering societies stance on marriage, I think every anniversary is something to be celebrated and cherished. I watched my parents marriage fall apart and disintegrate, and therefore, my family. I vowed to myself long before I considered marriage that that would never happen to me. I also vowed that my spouse would absolutely agree with my standards. Luckily, I found and married that person. It has never been an issue, and we continue to make sure that divorce will never be an option.

So anyway, we decided to take the weekend off and spend some child free time together. In a small, nearby out-in-the-boonies town called Almo, there is a little hotel, restaurant, and hot springs. They had a Love package for the month of February (ya know, Valentines Day) and we scooped it up for our anniversary. Harrison stayed with McCord's parents. Of course, the weather was awful. Snowing, blowing, drifting and COLD. We almost didn't make it out the driveway. But we made it to Almo just 40 minutes before the restaurant closed. Hallelujah! I was starving. We enjoyed a meal of salmon, steak sandwich, dutch oven potatoes, and pioneer puddin'. What the heck is that?
Pioneed Puddin' consists of spice cake, raisins, walnuts, and some type of caramel-y puddin' sauce. Topped with ice cream. Gross as is sounds, its actually quite tasty.

We then commenced to our hotel.

P.S. The couch was so fluffy! We just sorta sank into the pillows, and it consumed all desire to ever move again. Also, the sheepskin blankets hanging over the chair and arm rest are soooo soft!! I wanted to take one home.

The wood on the table and chairs were just beautiful. Standing on the table is a book/journal for guests to write about their adventures during their stay. Some were very interesting.

This tub was huge! And it was jetted :) Saturday morning I spent a good hour in there. I was feeling really sick, and the most comforting thing for me is a hot bath. I also didn't sleep well, so again, the hot bath is relaxing.

The only disappointing thing about our room was there was no Bible. It was the first thing I expected to see in the drawer, but no such luck. Just about all cowboys acknowledge the existence of a higher power, not all, but a lot. I just found it strange, that's all. *EDITED: Ok, nevermind. McCord says cowboys didn't read the Bible, just had faith and belief in a higher power.
I love the detail on this ottoman! Plus, it was huge and very soft.
They had some gorgeous artwork, and the books are real (in the basket on the floor). Interesting old western stories.

By now it sounds like I'm an advertising ad, but seriously, this is a great little stop in Southern Idaho. I would love to just spend a week there. The food is home grown fantastic, the rooms are comfy and again, very home-like, and the springs are fabulous. We didn't go to the springs because I was still fight an UTI. We've been several times before, and it is always enjoyable. If anyone is looking for a quick weekend getaway, this is it!

Some things that we learned: Make plans to be in Almo four hours before your intended ETA. Especially if there's snow.

Take food/snacks with you. Each room has a microwave and mini fridge, plates, silverware and cups. We had to leave a day early because I was so sick, partly from the infection and pregnancy, and partly from a lack of nutrition. The gas stations are sparsely prepared for meals.

Don't go unless you can absolutely get in the hot springs. That was a huge bummer.

We were also thinking that it might be fun to get a group of us a go together. The hotel set up is like an old 1800's building. There are 11 rooms, two of which are 2 story, and there are three separate cabins. The cabins have just one bed (queen) and a cast iron tub. I think the two stories have 5 or 6 beds.

So, who's in?

Conference Saturday

Truthfully, I wasn't much looking forward to this weekend. Not because of Conference. Heavens no! I love listening to Conference. But it was because there are so many items on my honey-do list. Silly, little, insignificant tasks that were just crawling under my skin to be done. I don't like housework and chores to interfere with Conference. Since both require a substantial bit of time, one had to be sacrificed. Guess who won. And, the wind picked up and the clouds began looming. We had two beautiful days, and now, the gloom has returned. Blah.

On a happier note, we are starting to help Harrison handle his aggression and anger. He still bangs his head (which resulted in a black eye), and scratches his face, but we are learning what best helps to calm him. And unfortunately, we are also learning about discipline methods. I really thought that talking things through would be the best way to help him understand his actions and consequences. This time, experience is really the best teacher. Go ahead and laugh at my naivety. I still am. I also am giving him two options and letting him make the choice, but I think sometimes it confuses him.

The little stink bug LOVES to watch his 'truck' movie (Hatari!). It's a John Wayne film. Surprised? You shouldn't be. It's a good film. Go watch it.

His speech is also coming along. He won't speak in phrases, just a one word, or sometimes syllable mumble. He will say whatever word we ask him to, but somehow we never hear them unless we ask. But he certainly likes to tell stories about cars and trucks and Ba-BOOM BOOM!! Your dead. Then, car, truck BA-BOOM!!

At bedtime he loves to hear the story of Noah and the Ark. I partially believe it's because I cannot accurately and completely tell any other Old Testament story. I tried Joseph and Moses, but I still became a stuttering mess. Shame on me.

Harrison loves to help me cook. Every morning he stirs the egg and milk for scrabbled eggs, and puts the bread in the toaster. Any time I stand near the sink and oven he needs to be sitting on the counter, watching and helping. I really hope this transforms into a life long love for cooking; heaven knows I certainly did not obtain it. And the best part? I can cook a full meal with about three square feet of counter space. I thought the counters were slim in our first Moscow appt, but these are even worse! Actually, I would have more space if Harrison could 'cook' at the table, but really, that's no fun.

Well, Mac's home from the Priesthood Session. Night, y'all.

Short and Sweet

As you may have guessed from our month long absence, I have not begun to feel better. Still nauseated, my veins are throbbing, and I get horrible headaches that sometimes leave me dizzy. Not to mention the exhaustion. I thought these things went away during the second trimester? Now, I'm not trying to sound whiny, but seriously, I'm am so mentally over this part of pregnancy. It's not enjoyable, nor do I look forward to progressing if these shenanigans don't stop. Two weeks after my first UTI a second came 'round. I kind of think the first one was never fully gone. Thankfully, I learned to act quick before things got out of hand. Another dose of antibiotics and I'm good to go. I called the Ob-gyn's office to make an appointment and guess what they told me? The doctor did not have a new ob patient opening until April 19th. I would be twenty weeks by then! This just will not do. I just need to see the doc and have him tell me everything is healthy and normal. I really don't think there is much cause for alarm, but somedays I do get a bit worried about the baby. I feel like it's right under my belly button, but that seems too high for how far along we are. I would just like some conformation for worries put to rest.

Harrison has been acting way out of whack. He won't put himself to sleep, and screams if anything does not go his way. Everyone keeps telling me it's the terrible twos, but I feel like it came outta nowhere! All he wants to do is watch movies, which is partially my fault for those weeks spent on the couch. The poor kid has been so neglected. But with the sun returning and warming temps, we have been outside more and we both feel better.

My sweet baby sister came over tonight and brought dinner. Mac is outta town for business until tomorrow, and today was a very nauseating day for me. So he sent her over to take care of me

Most excitingly for me, I have been chosen to be part of my local scrapbook stores Design Team. Each month I receive a paper packet and a challenge. I have two weeks to design four or more projects, to which they are turned in and displayed at the store. As an extra bonus, I get to preview all the new goodies coming in! Mac is a bit worried, because my crafting budgeting has been growing and growing. But I can stand within reason and still push the creative edge. So, you will see some of my projects posted here on the blog, and on their Facebook page. I will try to be better at taking pictures along the way so there's not too much confusion with instructions :) We will have blog hops and other fun challenges throughout the year. Feel free to hop in even if this is not your thing!

Next week, I am going to start working on a Halloween home decor project I've had brewing in my mind. I know it's early, but Halloween projects are due right around my due date, so the more I can do now, the better.

I just have to say again how excited I am for this! 2011 is going to be a great year! We have already been so blessed, and we continue to feel the optimism and hope we are striving for.

Four Years!

Today is the Four Year Anniversary of Olivia and I entering into the most important contract ever: Marriage. Its been a wild ride and we've has some crazy good times along with some rough stuff. The best is yet to come, I am sure.

Baby news

Before I get into the baby q & a, I just want to say a little something about McCord. Last night after a blessing and uncontrollable vomiting (TMI warning: I puked so hard it gave me a bloody nose. That's gotta be one for the books), I woke Mac up around 1:15 am and told him we need to go to the ER. It was happening again, and I couldn't stop. We got dressed, woke Harrison, and took off. After admission into the ER, the nurses took urine and blood samples. By this time it was about 2:30 and even the staff was looking a bit weary. The nurse told me that we had come just after they had three critical patients arrive around the same time, were stabilized, and released into another wing. This was a three hour process. She also said there were people waiting in line to be seen, but went home because they had waited for so long. I guess two in the morning wasn't so bad after all :)

Anyway, I again have a UTI but no other concerns. My fluids were stable and the baby is just fine. I'm taking antibiotics and a magical little pill to control nausea. All is well. And thank heavens for modern medicine. I can't imagine how women do without so much, how they survive without medicines. It is simply a miracle. I really thought if I monitored my food and water intake much closer that this would not happen. But I hope this is the last time I have to do that.

I just want to say how much I love McCord. I knew he was exhausted but still took care of me and the boy, even in the wee hours of the morning. We didn't get to bed until after four. Luckily, he had no appointments until the afternoon so he cared for us and ran to the store and pharmacy for me while I slept. It just really puts into perspective how blessed I am for finding such a wonderful man. Heavenly Father knew what we both needed and brought us together for the long haul. I love him so much, and I keep telling him how sorry I am for this. And I may even feel a little guilt for being so helpless. He usually gets upset and tells me to stop saying those things. But I really feel so much gratitude for his patience with me and willingness to care for me even when he's wicked tired. I love you muchos!

Ok, now on to the babe. I haven't seen anyone yet, but I'm due mid-September. That puts me around 11 weeks. The nurse searched for a heartbeat last night, but the darn thing kept moving around. I'm not too worried as this happened with H-bomb and he was perfectly healthy. So hopefully we will have some photos and more details to share in the next few weeks. We had to start telling family early because everyone was suspicious. The flu bug for four weeks and the prescriptions weren't helping? Yah, that didn't last for long. And of course, once one person figured it out, there was no secret any more.

I have been much sicker with this one than I remember with Harrison. Did anyone else get more sick the next time around? I keep telling myself it will all be fine and eventually I will feel healthy and energized again.

We are so excited to expand and bring another sweet spirit to the earth. I love being mommy to our funny little boy. I can't help but feel so much love for this one already, and really hope that I enjoy this journey more than I did before. I completely understand why some people choose to have so many children. They are truly the source of happiness and humility. My only worry is that one child may feel neglected over the other, and I won't notice. But of course that comes along with the usual stuff like, "Will I ever be able to shop again? Will I be able to have friends and a social life? There's noooo way these are gunna fit... Goodbye Nordstrom Rack clothes" and so on. I find confidence in watching other families, especially ones with small children. I really do love my family and the opportunity to be a mother. It is such a blessing to be able to bear and rear them, without too many health concerns :)

Harrison's big news...

Harrison Walbridge Larsen is pleased to announce that he is going to be a Big Brother! HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!

The Above Photo...

This post is to preemptively honor my wife for the four years she has put up with me. It is not hard to see the changes in our lives as we constantly grow together. I love you, dear.

Yes, it's true, I broke my resolution.

As you have already guessed, my new year's resolution went down the drain. But, I am not giving up hope that I can still continue and be successful. I've decided Sundays are not good days to update. We're tired, cranky, and hungry. So, I'm going to update sometime during the week. Maybe shorter but more frequent posts will be better? Let's give it a go.

Mac has been getting up way too early for court and I'm about ready to call them and tell them he's not allowed to have court before 10 am. He wakes early, hence I wake early. Not cool.

(Two headbands, one shoe, my iPhone, and smeared chocolate. This kids livin' the life.)

H-bomb has been throwing all sorts of tantrums and most times I don't know how to handle them. It's quite frightening as a mother when you can't figure out how to calm your child. Moms, give me some discipline tips. We've got to find something that doesn't make both of us start screaming and crying. And he still bangs his head when he's mad. How do I get rid of that?

Other than that, he's a pretty helpful guy. He has emptied three tubs of baby wipes in his efforts to be a big boy. While I generally appreciate his desire to contribute, I don't like buying all those extra wipes. And he loves to clean with our toothbrushes. Those get expensive, too.

Most mornings he asks to watch "howrse". What's that, you ask? It won't be anything you'd imagine relating to most equine shows. And the strange part of it all, he will sit and watch the rest of the show. He loves to dance to all the music, and scorn all the actors. And he generally gets upset if I stop the movie short, as if he really follows the story line. So, what is this captivating movie?

Why, it's BBC's Pride and Prejudice of course. I think he calls it howrse because of the opening scene, where Darcy and Bingley ride across the field to view Netherfield. That's the only reason I can think of. I even tried showing other horse themed movies, but he was not impressed.

I have been chasing the boy around. And also my sister. She plays high school BBall, and the season (thankfully) just ended. So in between games, school, and work she asks to practice driving. Again, thankfully, she just got her license. Which is great because Harrison LOVES his aunt Sara. Two weeks ago she baby sat him while we went to the movies (In case you were wondering, we saw True Grit; it's a good show). For the next week, he would ask about Sara all day, everyday. At breakfast, he'll point at the window, squint his eyes and say "sawah" in a sad and longing voice. In the middle of crashing his trucks, "sawah". It's died down a bit, but every so often he asks about her. What a punk.

I've also been practicing a bit more because I have been called as the primary pianist. It's actually a fairly easy job, especially if I've practiced. And it's repetitious, so even if I'm not familiar with the song, I will be by the end of singing time. The only thing that makes me nervous is the Sacrament Program, but it's too early to worry much about that.

There's also this stray kitty that won't stop meowing at our back door. I let her in once and now she won't give up! Last night she climbed up our screen door and pushed through a small hole in the screen to get into the house. She was successful. Now, it's a big hole. And McCord might have permission to shoot her. Might. She is generally sweet and affectionate, but more annoying than anything. I will give her one point because Harrison can kick, pull, strangle, and otherwise maul her and she's still nice to him. No claws, no hissing, no swatting. I'm sure she would make a great pet. Anybody want a cat? Cause we sure don't....

It's been a long week. Does anybody else feel that way?

Ugh. So glad it's almost over. Today, however, was great! Mac took the boy for the afternoon while I went to a little women's conference with the other ward. It was uplifting, hopeful, funny, filling (with lots of food, too) and all around enjoyable. The best part? My friend Kylie from high school who I haven't seen since graduation was there! Ack! So excited! We commenced chatting and almost talked right through the last talk. She is such a sweet gal, and has such a creative and thoughtful heart. It was sooo good!

I spent my week watching lots of movies and snuggling with Harrison. We haven't been feeling well. The flu bug is going around, so we (Harrison and I) basically quarantined ourselves and left only for the basics like milk and apples. I really do not want to get sick, nor have a sick child. And honestly, staying at home for days at a time was mostly enjoyable, although we did get a little cabin fever. I didn't do my hair, or put amy makeup on. The housework was minimal and it didn't bother me much that it was messy. But next time I think I'll just take lots more Vitamin C. It was great to not have errands or other items to attend to, but staying inside for that long drives everybody bonkers. The really bad thing is I didn't exercise much and now I feel lethargic and sluggish. I get out of breath walking up and down the stairs, but that's because I'm holding H-bomb. He has this thing where he wants to be a big boy and walk up and down the stairs while holding my hand. I guess the rail is too high? Anyway, I understand that it's important to help them be independent and encourage them to be proactive, but I get so impatient. Especially on our basement stairs because they are steep and narrow, and makes independent stair travel difficult for Harrison. So naturally he enlists my help. I almost patiently wait for him to take the first two steps, then the third, and by the fourth I've had it. I either pick him up or leave him to get there alone. Great parenting, huh?

Buuuutt, let's be honest. I really am out. of. shape.

Sad day.

Poor McCord has been working lots of long hours, and seems a bit stressed out. My only reply is that maybe it's time to go to the temple again. We had calming answers the last time we went. As soon as we can locate a babysitter, and the temple reopens, we are there.

My little babe fell asleep with me on the couch, so I left him there. He was so sweet and serene, I just couldn't bring myself to move him. Unfortunately that was a bad idea. All week he would get his horse and blanket and crawl up on the couch asking for milk. He seems to think that's his new nap time routine.

I know the focus is bad, but his hair was SUPER static-y. These dang couches create all sorts of static electricity and then shock the heck outta ya. It's getting to be very annoying.

I am finally remembering all the new words H-bomb is saying, so here they are: howse, milk, boot, yummy, candy, gum (or yum), coat, bum, poop, yuck, oh no, oo go? (as in 'where'd it go' complete with gestures), baby, howrse, kitty, puppy, the occasional amen, bootk, ah some? and a few others. Can you tell what we love at our house? Sweets and potty talk. Yup, we are starting the vocabulary and conscious realizations of bowel movements. He's had some constipation, so this has really helped us.

Harrison is attacking so I must retire to defend myself.

Week 2

This is Sapphie. She was my kitty as a child. Unfortunately she had to be put down this week. I cried. Now before you go thinkin' I'm silly and a bit crazy, let me tell you about her. A good friend found her in the parking lot at work abused and abandoned. We took her in and a few months later she had kittens! Yay! We kept them around for a few years and even moved them across the country with us (New Hampshire to Idaho). And there she has stayed. She survived the evil neighbor's cat killings, five pesky children and their friends, and numerous other cats we adopted. She was one tough kitty. And smart, figuring out how to open doors and food packages, avoid the house during all hours of the day, and keeping the local mouse, bird, and squirrel populations at bay.

I know most people find cats annoying and downright useless *McCord*, but she was 14 years old, healthy, and active up until about a year ago. And she had the coolest lime green eyes! Plus, my first word was kitty. I spent the first years of my life chasing and terrorizing cats until their untimely deaths. Except for Sapphie. She managed to escape my wrath.

Goodbye Kitty.

H-bomb has learned some new words, but rarely says them. He has also started to fold his arms for prayers again, which makes a momma proud. I just don't understand why he stopped in the first place. But he's back at it and we are happy. He loves to help me clean and often pulls out the Lysol wipes or baby wipes to help with everything, including cardboard boxes and his clothes. It gets smeared across the couches, windows and mirrors, toys, chairs, cards, floors, doors, cupboards, etc. He loves to put the dryer sheet in the dryer and close the door. I think this is my favorite of all, except when he closes the door before everything is in, or out. We're both learning patience. He frequently takes his diaper off, even in public, loves toilet water, and all things that go Vrroom, bang, or boom. What a boy.

He fell asleep with the stick of jerky still in his mouth while en route to Boise two weeks ago. Baby son and I went to spend some time with my mom and Reed. We did lots of shopping and eating! I brought P & P with me to watch, but as fate would have it I left the second disk at home. Huge bummer. Reed was the greatest guy! He followed us around all the days and watched Harrison while we tried on clothes. No complaining or whining, just as long as he choose the food. Simple and easy to please. We had a great time.

McCord is working, and that is all he has to say. He's also been helping with Cody the horse. You see, he also has a brother named Cody, so it's important to be specific. The horse's hoof got an infection in the hoof wall and it swelled half way up his leg. The vet lanced and drained it, but the sore is continually swelling and draining, so the bandages must be frequently changed. Gross.

I have been chasing the boys, and enjoying much Pride and Prejudice, the Colin Firth version. We also visit my Grandparents quite a bit. Grandpa Mark has had some health issues that landed him in the ICU for nearly three weeks. Then they moved him to Park View Rehab Center, where he stayed for a week. And he finally came home this week. He's very medicated and weak, but we're hoping Grandma can whip him back into shape soon. It's been very stressful for her, and I think they are setting up home hospice care soon. My Aunt June is visiting from Washington for a while to help with all the transitions. It's been so fun laughing with her.

We spent the weekend in Boise for our nephew's baptism. I just love going to baptisms and being reminded of my experience. It was by no means great, nor do I remember a lot. But I love sharing the Spirit with them, and experiencing the growth and changes with them and their families.

H-bomb did not much care for sleeping in the toy closet while we were there. Don't worry, the closet it just shy of a small bedroom. He woke up screaming a few times, mostly because it was freezing in the room. After waking up several times, we brought him into bed with us. BAD idea. He kicked, punched and rolled all over us while taking away our precious blankets. We froze. He slept. All on a couch pull out bed. I am quite looking forward to our TempurPedic tonight.

Mac took Riley, his brother, shooting and brought along the Mag Research 45/70 revolver, and the Ruger Single Six. Mac will entertain you on the details later.

After the baptism and luncheon, Riley's wife Allison, took all the ladies to a new home decor boutique in Star called The Umbrella Bird. They have some great stuff! And best of all, it's very reasonably priced. A large china hutch was under $600 and made of real wood! All of their furniture pieces are made from wood reclaimed from old barns in Pennsylvania. If you live the Ada county, or visit, go see this place. It's not large by any means, but they do have some unique pieces for good prices. I bought two glass cake stands for under $30. And both have beautiful details.

In most recent news, our ward boundaries have changed. It seems to happen everywhere we go, usually after we've settled for a while. I understand that there is something to be learned and appreciated about these things, but can't we just stay in one ward for awhile? I just want things to stay the same for a while. Does anybody else feel this way? McCord suggested we move to Grouse Creek, but there is no way I am moving out there. Just see if you can find it on the satellite map. And then look how far away it is from any other town. No way Jose. Not gunna do it. We retained some friends and neighbors. Mac is just happy we're not in the same ward as the city prosecutor (he lives in the other ward). They are not the best of friends. Overall, I think it should be okay. A house we have thought about is now in our ward boundaries, so maybe this will be a good thing.

Happy New Year!

Here we are, another year. Yahoo. We're not much for resolutions because in Mac's opinion, if there's something you want to change, just do it. You shouldn't have to wait for a New Year. And of course, this is cowboy philosophy from Hoggie (pronounced like the sandwich), an old ropin' buddy and neighbor.

In light of all that, I would like to announce that my determination for this year is to be a better record keeper. I think if I start blogging once a week, I should get most things covered, right? Right. And Harrison's scrapbook is about halfway done, so I want to be caught up by his birthday in May. Simple, and accomplishable.

The baby son is telling us 'no' and 'no'. You see, he has yes and no confused. It all depends on his tone. Sometimes it's yes, and others its no. Usually he will sign please if it's a yes. Then I know to proceed. But even then it's a struggle. His words are coming along, although it takes a week to finally understand what he's saying. I love that little stinkbug.

He LOOOVES blocks, in all forms. While making chocolates a few weeks ago, he emptied out the bottom shelves from the pantry and began stacking all the items one on top of the next. And even better, he unstacked them and put them back on the shelves. Yes! The kid is so smart! Unfortunately the cleaning experience did not last long, and I now have to drag him through the living room while he "puts" his toys away (read: throws them at me in anger). Oiy. This could be a long night.

Once we discovered his new fascination I emptied most of his toys in preparation for his Christmas Legos. I think I shall take the remaining toys and hide them. He just dumps them out and scatters them across the house. The Legos are all that matter. It's serious business, yo.

We still read quite a bit, and can even spend up to an hour going through his most favorites: Rainbow Rob, That's not My Reindeer, Red Tractor, The Foot Book, But Not the Hippopotamus and all other Sandra Boyton stories, Goodnight Johnny Tractor (it glows in the dark!), and anything relating to the farm or animals. I love it when I find him reading to himself. It makes a momma proud.

The other night we took a drive out to a house near Rock Creek to see all the lights. It is AH-mazing! Thousands of light and animated characters. Santa was even there with candy canes and Ho-Ho-Ho's. This welcomes you as you walk down towards the scenery.

The pretty Angel

A string of cowboy lights. Some others were martini glasses, cheeseburgers and fries, Coke glasses, farm animals, shotgun shells, guns, Pillsbury Dough Boy, etc. There were a LOT of these string lights.

Here are a few poorly done video's of our adventure. The first one is the house. It was COVERED. Top to Bottom. And I should mention, that these photo's and movie were taken with Mac's iPhone, thus the poor quality and small screen. Just watch it a couple times to see all the characters on the roof.

Oh, and they have a camel! He doesn't much care for the flash. But you can feed him a carrot. He's very friendly, and quite large, and is about to celebrate his twelfth birthday! Happy Birthday, Camel!

We had an excellent time, although both of us were exhausted. He had helped his parents rip out the kitchen and wall to remodel, and I had watched two kids from our ward who just welcomed twin girls a few weeks ago. The little boy and the twins are 18 mo's apart. Yikes. And they were in no way planned. Poor momma. But she looks fabulous and even wears makeup. Seriously my hero. But their 6 yr. old was a huge help, and actually took more energy to entertain than the two 19 mo. olds. She told me at church that she wants to come to my house again. I told her it's a date.

Well that's Larsen Land for December. Oh, I guess there is Christmas. Here's the breakdown: Christmas Eve Day Mac had to meet with a client while I gathered my wits for the weekend. Christmas Eve was spent eating lots of food with both families. Christmas Day we opened gifts at our house. From there we went to mi madre's to open gifts and eat brunch. Thence to the Larsen's to open gifts. And on to my great g-ma's for early dinner and an evening of self indulgence. I think I'm still full. We had a great time visiting and eating, laughing, eating, and eating some more. But I'm so glad that's over, and we shall never celebrate like that again. One day with one side, the next with the other. That was just ridiculous. And I'm still exhausted. Sunday I substituted in Primary while the chorister prepped for surgery. Christmas should never be on Saturday, especially when we had 9 am church. So let it be written; so let it be done. (Name that movie).

Addios, muchachos.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Just thought I would take a quick second, before I start what might become a hectic day, to wish y'all a merry Christmas. It has been a great year and I am glad we are finally where we are. We have been blessed by family and friends, in ways too numerous to list. Let me just say that without all of you, none of what we do would be possible.
Quick update on the McCord Larsen Family: I have been helping Mom and Dad a little by tearing out the Kitchen in their house. When we are done, Mom will have a huge kitchen. It really has been a heck of a project. I am also training a new horse to rope, his name is Spooky, and he is about 14.1 hands and 10 year old. Jet black with the cutest little head ever. He is Darwin Jensen's horse, and a stud, but you would never know he is a stud, he is pretty flippin' gentle. I think he will come right along.
Olivia has been busy the last week making Christmas Chocolates with her mother. They made a metric ton of candy this year, which is always raved about by whoever receives it. She also has been busy with decorating our little home with the limited resources we have. She does such a great job.
Harrison has figured out that shaking his head means something, unfortunately, he thinks it means "yes." So, you can ask him if he wants more candy and he will violently shake his head and sign "please." It is a bit confusing, and very funny. He enjoyed the lights when we went to Rock Creek and he LOVED the camel. I think this kid has the same problem his parents have, but worse: he loves animals. (Olivia likes "pets" and I like stock animals, Harrison likes them all).
Pictures to follow, hopefully...

We're mobile!!!

FYI: the reason for the text color change is so things can be read on iPhones, iPads and Blackberrys. Olivia didn't sound too excited about the deal, but now we can read it from mobile devices, so check us out on the bus, train or plane. Please don't blog and drive, I mean, I could defend you, but I'd rather you spent you're money on Christmas for the kids...

Some gifts...

Not to sound ungrateful, but nobody told me that the little rider toy that Alison and Riley gave Harrison was a talking toy. Not only does it talk, but it is bilingual. I do not mind that fact, I think a little second language is good for the boy, but the damn toy is stuck in Spanish. He's only been riding it for 10 minutes this morning and I am ready to set it on fire!
Seriously though, life in the Larsen home has been good. We are safe and warm and you cannot really ask for more. I have been working like a red-headed stepchild and learning a lot. I have cases in all sorts of areas of the law, it really is fun not knowing what will come through the door next, but it does mean I have to say something most attorneys never want to say to a client: "I don't know..." There just is so much out there to know. The fun part is, despite what D-Mac at U of I Law said, that in a small town people are okay with that.
Just FYI to all those traveling through Southern Idaho this season: please feel free to stop by! We do miss our friends from all parts of our life together, those from childhood all the way through law skool. Just give us a holler, we can meet up for a meal out by the freeway if you want, or you can come way off the beaten path and visit our humble home.
Hope all of you are doing well this Christmas Season. I hope Olivia makes a post with her decorations, she is having a good time decking our halls, or hall, as it is.

CHEESE!

So here we are, just before Thanksgiving, and we have so much to be thankful for. Firstly, McCord passed the Bar and is working. A Lot.

Next, our families is taking such good care of us. Vance and Joan are letting us stay in the house until the spring so the business can get rolling. Unfortunately I am too lazy to unpack to boxes that have been sitting downstairs since May. We can deal.

We also are invited to dinners quite often, which means I don't have to cook and cleanup is minimal :)

Third, for this little stinkbug:

He's recently learned to "cheese" it. Don't know where, or how because I'm sure we didn't teach him that. Smart little kid will say cheese every time the camera or our phones come out. And he must use real utensils to eat. None of that small colored plastic stuff. Hence the splattering of chocolate pudding all over his face and clothes. Ahhh, but I love this kid. Every night we snuggle up before bed and identify facial features and body parts. He understands them all, except his belly button. It is regularly confused with mans unmentionables. I don't understand it. But we're learning. And I love it.

Last, but not least, the gospel. As we've struggled to make ends meet these past few months I keep referring to my patriarchal blessing for comfort. There's been a few weeks where there was nothing (in monetary terms). McCord's pickup has been in the shop for two months and still there was nothing. I honestly don't know how people can make it through without the knowledge that Christ lives, he loves us, and will help us if we are obedient and faithful. We have scriptures to guide and direct us, to find answers and comfort.

I really love our ward. They have been so sweet and supportive. I especially love their stories and testimonies. I find such comfort in hearing their woes and sorrows only to find that because of their faithfulness, all things came out ok. Not perfect, but just enough to grow. These little trails are preparing us for some big trial, or mid life crisis, in order for us to be more obedient and faithful. Heavenly Father has something waiting for us to receive and wants us to fully appreciate his blessings.

So there we are folks. In Burley and lovin life. But not this weather.

Really? It just had to be windy and snowing and freezing cold for Thanksgiving?

Ridiculous.

I guess it's time...

For a new post. We're lame, I know. Since April we have done many a things. Mac graduated from Law school (hooray!). I am so proud of him and all the work he put in to provide for his family. I hope he knows how much I love him and that Harrison loves him. This family would surely fall apart without your level head (or at least I would). The real stress set in as he began to study for the Bar. Admittedly I think it went a lot better than I expected, but McCord tells me I'm crazy so... maybe it was that bad. He did really well staying focused (he studied at home) and keeping his cool. It was nice to have him around for lunch. We watched Arrested Development and King of the Hill and watched Harrison dance to the music of the opening and closing credits. That kid is nuts! The Bar is now over and now we get to play the awful game of waiting. September 16th come quick! In the mean time he is working with local attorney James Annest, who is 83 and thinking he'd like to retire in three years... yeah... So we'll see where that takes us.

Harrison loves being around his grandma's and grandpa and great grandparents (he has two sets of each within a 2 mile radius of eachother). They love on him and spoil him so much it's almost disgusting. Although I am quite impartial being his mother and all, so of course I love his kisses and hugs and almost become jealous when he doesn't share them with me. He's become quite the ladies man over the past few weeks. He runs around giving hugs and kisses and does he's fake cheesy laugh all the while. He's such a goof, but he my goof and I love it! I think I am finally starting to really enjoy being a mother. I miss the days of his smallness and neediness but am so thrilled to watch him play and learn and grow everyday. Sometimes I miss working, but being home with Harrison has been so fulfilling. I love this little man and want to enjoy all his quirks and giggles before he's too cool for me. He turned one in May and his birthday was actually kinda sad. We celebrated in the backyard after the graduation ceremony with our families. Harrison was so tired by then that he looked at his cake, poked it a few times, then started to cry. He didn't open presents, and was not in the least interested in having ice cream. I just took him up stairs, bathed him, then we sat down for a long snuggle. I think he was a bit overwhelmed with all the excitement, and really really tired. He had a few gifts from Pat and Tim and his cousins that we opened the next morning. I think his cousins were more interested in the toys that he was, but he's coming to really love his stick horse. It broke my heart to have such a disappointing birthday, but I guess it won't matter that much because he won't remember. Oh well. Maybe next year...

After the cake, everyone else headed down to the shed and loaded our stuff into the horse trailer. I had almost all of our stuff boxed and ready to load when everyone arrived. Mac's parents took the trailer down for us, and whatever else we had went into the pickup. And let me tell ya, it was a VERY full pickup. I barely had room for my feet.

So here is the long anticipated list of Harrison's latest and greatest:

• loves his horse and kitty, and tries very hard to make their respective noises
• he's really beginning to love books and pulls his favorites around all day (he'll bring them to me then turn around and wait for me to put him on my lap)
• loves to play with: toothbrushes, paintbrushes, any of my crafting supplies, cups, the diaper bag, canned foods, books, horses, kitties or any other soft stuffed animal, sticks or anything resembling, the stroller, anything he can lift and carry or push/pull, his high chair, straws, our clothes, ropes, Grandpa's steers and horses, the dirt and all other ingredients found in the arena, swings, the slide, the trampoline, sprinklers, puddles, plastic Tupperware and mixing bowls, Great-G-pa's cane and oxygen tube, toy cars/tractors/airplanes/etc, marbles, fake fruit, pots and pans.... and the list goes on. But those seem to be his most beloved :)
• his appetite is growing and now likes: banana's (it's the first thing he grabs when we go to Grandma Larsen's), watermelon, apples, peaches, pears, grapes, cheerios, trix, rice krispies, kix and basically any cereal, cheese, graham crackers, chicken, granola bars, lifesaver mints or any other type of mint flavored item/ingestible (which includes, but is not limited to lip gloss, floss, and cleaning supplies), beans, rice, pasta, spinach, carrots, celery, cranberry juice, potatoes, chicken nuggets, fry sauce all by itself; French Dip sandwiches; he will basically try anything we give him, but hose are the basics.
• He likes to flush the toilet and throw things in the bathtub. It's a good last place to look :)
• watch food in the microwave and oven, especially his milk
• he has a demanding need to watch as I cook, even if he gets burned or hurt.
• fans and turning the lights on and off
• play with any electronic device, and get especially mad when we take it away
• plays telephone and we're trying to teach him to say hello in Japanese
• eat the tree seeds he finds outside. it's quite disgusting.
• or anything else he finds, including bird poop (he has yet to actually swallow), sticks, bugs (dead or alive), regurgitated grapes, and pocket fuzz.
• playing in his poop during diaper changes
• squealing when he likes something, yelling when he's mad
• opening and closing the blinds
• playing in the bathroom drawers, and sneakily hiding my makeup and hair products

Dislikes:

• bedtime
• changing clothes, although he is being to be more helpful putting his arms through
• changing diapers
• the car seat
• time out
• coming inside from playing in the puddles, or the road
• spicy foods
• lightening and thunder (we've had a lot of random thunder storms the past two weeks)
• getting poked in the eye with his sticks
• putting shoes on

That's all I can think of right now for his dislikes. Of course, you all know how mean mommies can be and that's really where the dislikes begin ;) He's also learned how to throw a really good temper tantrum and we love listening to that. His speech is improving and that mouth moves faster each day. He has lots of things to say, and someday, it'll be interesting to know what it all means. But for now, I'll enjoy my ignorance of his language :)

He's stared spinning in circles when he's trying to show off or really hyper/tired, which is so funny to watch. We'll get a video of his spinning soon. When he's mad, he'll scream and start to back up. I think we need to get him a beeping sensor so he knows when he'll hit his head. That darn kitchen table gets him all the time. I also think it's time for his first haircut. He gets mistaken for a girl all the time. I just don't want to because he has the cutest curls in the back! But it's time, especially because he has a sweet mullet designed all by nature. It looks so silly, but cute at the same time. I just love this little guy!

As for me, I've spent my time reading blogs, doing housework, and scrapbooking. I've also started couponing, but that's another post entirely. I've gotten so many pages done for H-bomb's scrapbook these last two months! I think it's true that using creativity begets more creativity. It's like a muscle, if you don't flex it and keep it in shape, you lose it. It gets weak and flimsy and its just better to keep in toned. So, that is my goal: to keep my creative muscles in shape. as for my physical muscles, well..... they stay in shape by hoisting Harrison and chasing him around ;) Good 'nuff, right? Right. I have about 5 lbs left to lose from being pregnant, but I'm not really concerned with that as much as fitting into the jeans I bought right before I found out I was pregnant. I can't let those beauties go to waste! They're the last real pair I've bought in almost two years! Except for those jeans I bought for my birthday.......... Do they have rehab for addiction to jeans? I think I should apply at the Buckle again. Or maybe just get some kind of job. Mac would greatly appreciate that. But for know I will wallow in self pity and have some ice cream. And hopefully, add another page to the scrapbooks!

So that's the latest and greatest from us. Pictures to follow....