Party of 5

D.C.

2011-11-23T08:02:00.000-08:00

The last week of September Micah and I were able to go visit Washington, D.C. We had a great time! We were able to see Micah's parents who are serving a mission and also his sister Shanna who lives in Arlington. It was super to get away just the two of us and we had a ton of fun. Many thanks to the Becksteads and Aunt Bekah for taking care of the kids.

The Stratton kids. Love Love Love them!

The view from Mt. Vernon

White House. I just know our dinner invitation was lost in the mail.

Hope Diamond. It is on my Christmas list and I have a good feeling about it!

Washington Monument

Closed due to the earthquake that happened a few weeks before we went

The Capitol

I don't want to bore you with all the photos and details but we really had the best time. There was so much to see, I don't think we even did half of it. I hope we get a chance to go back and finish the things on my list. We loved seeing Nyle and JoAnn and Shanna and her family. Thanks for the hospitality!

Halloween

2011-11-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

We had a great Halloween, the kids had fun parties at school and the weather was fairly decent for trick or treating. Cade went around the neighborhood with friends this year, sniff sniff. He had lots of fun. He loved his Lego costume (thank you pinterest) but it kept getting in his way. The box was so long he couldn't run very fast. He ended up taking a little tumble and that was the end of the Lego costume. He came home for glasses and called himself a rock star. Annie was Ariel for her school party and then decided to be Giselle from Enchanted at the last minute. She hung with Molly for this first hour and then went with one of her friends. Molly the strawberry had the time of her life! She loved going door to door and she loved her loot! She was frozen by the time it was over with! It was a great day!

Molly is 3!

2011-11-09T10:33:00.000-08:00

I don't know how it happened! Three years went way to fast, in my mind this is how the kids all still look.......

Baby Molly

Happy to be 3!

What a change in just 3 short years!

Really, I can't imagine that my baby is no longer a baby! Molly was so excited to be three. She had been talking about her birthday for weeks! She wanted to have a Dora party and told me numerous times she needed to have Dora party hats. It was a Dora day for sure, party hats included! She had some of her little friends over for a birthday breakfast. I have no photos, not sure what I was doing! She was so happy to blow out her candles and open presents. She loved her Dora scooter and her own little indoor sandbox. The next day she wanted to know if she could have a party again, but this time a Minnie Mouse party. Molly is our little spit-fire and we adore her!

Heritage Park

2011-09-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

Hands down the most favorite thing about our trip to Canada was visiting Heritage Park. A huge park that makes you feel like you have stepped back in time. All sorts of great history and fabulous people to tell you all about it. We ended up buying seasons passes and went 3 times. Seriously. Taylors haven't been back since we left so we pretty much wore them out!

My favorite pic! Sitting outside the first Jewish synagogue in Calgary

Making a project at the lumber yard

Outside the schoolhouse

At the train depot

With the projects from the lumber yard. Doesn't Molly look thrilled!

Part 2

2011-09-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

Our vacation continued with a trip to Waterton, famous for the many bears roaming free. Guess how many we saw? None. That's right, not a bear in sight! We still made good memories hiking with the kids and swimming at the hotel. It is a fun little town, think Menan, Idaho as a resort town. We loved it! We did see lots and lots of deer. They must have scared the bears off. The Taylor's went back 3 weeks later and saw 11 of them. Not fair, guess we will have to go back!

Meadow where bears "usually" are

hiking

the one and only bear we saw, nice of him to stand still for the photo

Oh Canada! Part 1

2011-09-09T15:32:00.001-07:00

We had a fantastic summer and were able to do lots of fun things but the highlight was our trip to Canada to visit the Taylor's. We left Boise on a Thursday after work and were able to spend the night with Grandpa and Grandma Randall. They left the next week to start their mission at the Washington DC temple so it was our last visit with them for a whole year! On Friday we left bright and early for our long day of driving. The kids did very well in the car, it wasn't pure torture like we all thought it would be!

Saturday morning the Calgary Stampede was still in full swing so we had a fun breakfast in Okatoks and the kids enjoyed lots of free cotton candy, face painting, fishing pond and meeting a real live Canadian Mountie. We spent that afternoon at the Heritage Isle neighborhood lake. It became a favorite spot! Sunday morning we headed to Banff National Park. It was so beautiful! We enjoyed a 5 star breakfast at the Banff Springs Hotel and then toured the hotel grounds.

Cala and Cade

Chelsea and Annie

Connor and Molly

Cousins

Living it up at the lake.

Cala and Cade's sandcastle creation

*note the ribs on that kid

The Graduate

2011-08-31T06:36:00.000-07:00

I realize I am about 4 months behind but, better late than never! Annie had a fantastic year in kindergarten with Mrs. DeForest. Out of 21 students only 4 were girls! She reached a huge milestone and learned to read, and hasn't stopped since! Love you Annie!

Complete Adoration

2011-06-10T16:57:00.001-07:00

Growing up with 3 sisters (and the most amazing brother whom I will tribute later) I always hoped that I would get to have some little girls. I could imagine them playing together for hours, creating fun games with each other. A few of our childhood favorites were playing our version of The Boxcar Children, dogs......I was princess and Rich was prince. (should have been the other way around but that's a different post entirely) Thanks to Alison we had some killer middle of the night monopoly sessions. Kristen aka Friday Allen was a hoot to play school with and we had our very own "special walk". I can still see Friday as a helicopter hair do skunk outfit wearing 4 year old! Erika was the ring leader of most of the creative play, she was the inventor of us playing The Mandrell Sisters. (I was Erlene, the drummer) Even today I count the three of them as my best friends and wish at least one of them lived by me. Life would then be perfection! Annie and Molly have a special bond. Annie is a calming influence to Molly's spitfire! I hope as they grow they will continue to love each other and watch out for one another. There is nothing quite like a sister!

"I could never love anyone as I love my sisters"

L.M. Alcott, Little Women

Back by popular demand

2011-05-25T13:29:00.000-07:00

Not that anybody is demanding an update or necessarily wants to hear one but here it is none-the-less. First, as per the previous post, thank you Alison for coming to rescue us during yet another fantastic getaway. And by getaway I mean the lovely accommodations at St. Lukes Regional Medical Center. We enjoyed a unforgettable 3 day stay with Annie in the PICU. Those rooms are much bigger than out on the regular floor and you get much more one on one attention from the nursing staff. However, be very prepared to pay extra for it! Seriously though, I absolutely can't say enough good about all the respiratory therapists, nurses and doctors who worked with us. It is a wonderful hospital and I highly recommend it should a need ever arise. We actually started out in the emergency room at the Meridian branch and got a first class ride in an ambulance downtown. Good times. We did however finally discover that Annie has asthma. She is on daily medication and is doing great! Two weeks after Annie's stay we were there once again with Molly. She had her tonsils removed and had a fairly major sinus surgery. She was also lucky enough to be booked in the PICU. I swear the staff thinks that I have Munchhausen by proxy. Google it. It was a very rough recovery for poor Molly, but Ali stepped in and took Cade and Annie for the week so that we could focus on the pops. (Molly) She actually did great drinking but refused food for several weeks. Poor thing weighs 23 lbs. As Erika pointed out I pretty much need to put my almost 3 year old in a rear facing infant seat! She feels so much better and just the other day Micah and I were talking about how much happier she seems. It's true, she has mellowed a TON!!! We also discovered that she too has asthma. We are 3 for 3. (I am blaming this on the Randall genes, we Byram's are a "hearty" bunch) During all this Cade was keeping busy with soccer, piano and scouts. He loved soccer this season, his last 2 games were Saturday and he scored 4 goals in the first game! He had his first piano recital a few weeks ago and did fantastic. He and I played a duet and it was a big moment for me to realize just how fast he is growing up! He is a wonderful big brother and showed lots of concern while the girls were sick. Photos to follow.

(ir)REPLACEABLE

2011-03-08T10:54:00.000-08:00

Attention! As this is my first official post...Alison is blogging... I will need a shout out from all those in the blogger world. Funny how I am posting about Andrea's children and not my own. But whatever. You would all think me insanely hilarious and that's all Erika and Kristen have going for them. Therefore, I will leave it be.

Annie, again, was summoned to the hospital. It is now renamed St. Randall in lue of MLR's generous quarterly donation. I became the nanny. Here's what I learned.

1. Andrea talks to her children as if they were adolescents. Even I put myself in time out.

2. Molly is a highly intelligent 2 year old. Whenever I answer a question correctly she replies, "Yes it is". It's like playing reverse Jeopardy.

3. Cade liked my cinnamon muffins. Thanks Betty Crocker.

4. My kids have too many socks.

5. Without the proper supervision, Molly is likely to become an exotic dancer. Nothing like watching tv naked.

6. Annie is a pro at hospitals. She tells the orderly what size needle to use and what meds work best in her nebulizer. A career in pediatric pulmonology would be appropriate for her.

7. Words with Friends is my new hobby....no wonder Ange gets nothing done.

8. I cook better for my sister's family than I do my own. Minus the one burnt batch of cookies.

9. Texting sisters late at night is wet your pants funny...which I didnt't Kristen.

10. At any time, I can assume the identity of Andrea Randall as per my Costco visit and phone conversations with friends. I even withdrew money from her bank account.

All in all, it was a great visit and glad to be able to help. See you at St Luke's in a few months!

Big News.

2011-02-04T12:28:00.000-08:00

After almost two weeks of work, it is official. Molly has accomplished a very big goal, thanks in part to diet A&W root beer and gumballs, she is potty trained!!!!!!! Way to go Molly!

I thought about taking photos to document the big occassion but then remembered a John & Kate plus 8 episode and reconsidered. However, she looks totally adorable in her big girl panties.

Soccer Season

2010-12-11T13:15:00.001-08:00

We had lots of fun watching Cade and Annie play soccer this fall. Cade has played with most of the same boys for the last 3 years. It is fun to see how far they have come! This was Annie's first year, I think she enjoyed dancing/daydreaming on the field more than the actual game. She was entertaining/frustrating to watch! She did score 2 goals, both were for the opposing team. Oh well, take what you can get!

perfect soccer pose
Annie always had a huge smile on her face!

super soccer smile!

Trying hard to defend against a man. I mean boy.

Cade did really great this year, he scored several goals and really improved his skills. He is an aggressive player and is not a fan of losing!

Sept. 23, 2010

2010-12-10T20:57:00.000-08:00

Molly Violet Randall

9/23/08

5 lbs.

18 in.

Our tiny girl has turned two! I can't believe how quickly the last two years have gone. We have loved having Molly-pop in our home, she keeps life interesting/entertaining. She loved the baby and stroller she got for her birthday. It is so sweet to watch her snuggle her baby and put her to bed. Two fun Molly facts................#1 she has only gained 18 lbs. in two years #2 she will answer to, Molly, Molly-pop, Molly-kalekemaka, Boo, Mollsers. Aunt Kristen continues to try to get Grand Teton Molly to stick, jury is still out. We love you lots Molly! Happy Birthday Baby!

self-discipline

2010-09-10T07:40:00.001-07:00

Misbehaving at home?
Nose to the corner.
Apparently Molly has seen the consequence of naughty behavior a little too often. The other day I told her "No Molly!" and she went immediately to the appropriate spot. Self-discipline.....I'm guessing it won't last!

Back to School

2010-09-02T07:33:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I was not ready to send the kids off to school this year. We had such a fun summer and I enjoyed having them around. I did shed a few tears during our final "summer" weekend. Cade was ready to go back, he loves school! He started 2nd grade and is lucky enough to have one of his best friends in the class. Poor teacher. Annie started kindergarten! She was a bit nervous and had a few rounds of tears but is loving it now. She goes all day on Mondays and Wednesdays and every other Friday. Hopefully I can keep her schedule straight! Molly is enjoying the peace and quiet and lots of mom time.

Lemonade/Cracker Stand

2010-09-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

I LOVE our neighborhood, it is the ideal place for little kids. We have so many great friends next door and around the corner, playmates are almost always available! On one of the last days before school we had am impromptu lemonade/cracker stand. It was so fun to watch the kids set things up and charge each other for drinks and food. They had a great time!

Rules of Childhood

2010-08-01T07:24:00.001-07:00

Each of us has a set of rules we choose, or choose to not live by. There seems to be several "rules" all children live by. Unless of course it is just those children that live in my home!

1. Always eat your ice cream cone from the bottom up. The messier it is, the better it tastes!

2. If you would like to color, NEVER choose a color book, it is simply not done. Always choose a wall, furniture, a sibling, or the best choice, yourself.

at least it appears she was trying to put on make-up

May 30, 2005

2010-07-15T07:11:00.001-07:00

May 30, 2005
5 lbs. 5 oz.
18 in

I remember like it was yesterday. Annie entered this world in slightly less than favorable circumstances, a prgnancy that only made it to 32 weeks. I remember how small and fragile she looked, a tiny beautiful face. I remember holding her for a couple of minutes and thinking how perfect she was, an angel sent from heaven. The next 3 weeks were filled with lots of ups and lots of downs. Many times I would sit in the NICU, holding my sweet angel, and realizing how many miracles I had witnessed. I get to see that miracle every day, and I love her more every day. Happy birthday sweet Annie Jane.

5 Annie facts

1. she is always smiling and happy

2. she still loves to snuggle

3. she loves to do make-up and fix hair

4. she is a great sister

5. she loves to color and make crafts

the month of May(be) a little behind

2010-07-12T20:47:00.001-07:00

I realize I am a little more than a little behind. if you aren't laughing at that check your humor button
Spring was very busy at our house, highlights include: baseball, dance recital, preschool graduation, trip to Utah and Annie's 5th birthday to name a few.

Annie graduated from Cloverdale Christian Day School, next stop.....Kindergarten! She loved school, her teacher and her friends. She worked hard and learned a lot!

The proud parents with the graduate
Annie and Miss Denise

Annie and her best friend Bailey

We also got to see Annie in her very first dance recital. She was a little nervous but pulled through and did fabulous. We are so proud of her!

Beautiful Ballerina

Annie and mom after the performance

More updates to follow!

announcing.....

2010-06-09T09:21:00.000-07:00

I had a funny phone call yesterday, I was in the library (embarrassed to have my phone ring while in such a quiet place) I heard a voice that sounds just like MLR...
boy: Hey
me: hey....totally whispered....boys voice gets quiet
boy: we are having a baby
me inside my head: WHAT? That can't be...how....when...IMPOSSIBLE
me speaking: Shut-up...(totally freaking out)...and then....DUH!
It was my brother-in-law. Jill was having the baby NOT me! Heart rate slowly begins to decelerate.
I feel so blessed I got to spend the day waiting for the sweet new arrival. Jill did AMAZING! The whole time I kept thinking about how this little person was just waiting to take her first breath and how unbelievable the female body is. How amazing that just moments before entering this world she was with angels. It was one of the most incredible moments, thank you for letting me be part of it Luke and Jill.
Violet Elizabeth Randall...........5 lbs. 7 oz. of pure beauty.

Farwell

2010-05-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

It has been two weeks since they left American soil and I am finally feeling stable enough to post! After a 24 hour travel ordeal they arrived in Cebu City, Philippines. Jess said it would be at least 2 years before he could even think about getting on a plane again. Deb is a little bit tougher, good thing she is there to take care of "princess" as Erika calls him. It was hard to say goodbye but we are so proud of them and know they will do a great job. Here are a few of the things I will miss.......in no particular order.
*having dad call and check on the weather, and us.....weather first!
*having mom call and ask if I could look up a phone number for her
*watching Annie "style" grandam's hair and do her make-up
*playing the Wii with Jess, he bowls a mean game
*having them come and visit and going shopping
*having them visit and Jess making breakfast......he should think about a career as a cook
*just knowing that they are only 4 hours away
It's a short list and I could go on, but my emotional stability is leaving me. I love you mom and dad!

sounds part 2

2010-04-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

baby jabber

momma, whoa, dadda, dade (cade), aaan (annie), no, nigh-nigh (night), bubble, pees (please, said while patting chest)

happy sounds from a happy girl.

no fat lip.

Sounds

2010-04-27T18:12:00.000-07:00

I am currently listening to the sounds of a crying baby. She did not want to go to bed, I needed her to. The unintended head-but she gave me was the final straw.
bath time
stories read
hugs and kisses all around
prayers
blankie and hippo
I can't wait for quiet to begin.
And Biggest Loseer.
And for tomorrow when Molly will be happy.
And hopefully my lip will not be swollen.
Good night.

laundry day & dad's influence

2010-03-23T11:56:00.001-07:00

The joy of laundry.........nothing like warm fresh smelling clean clothes.
The joy of Micah's influence.............nothing like catching your child with skivy's on her head.
*they really were clean, I promise

anything for Hilary

2010-03-18T12:14:00.001-07:00

I hate being "tagged" it reminds me of playing "tag" and of the fact that I was always "it", never much of a runner I always got caught. Although if Erika was playing I could usually manage to stay away from her. She and I are NOT athletic, (love you Erika!) Anyway, I was "tagged" on a friends blog so, TADA, I will comply! First folder, 10th photo. Enjoy! Love you Hilary!

Cade, 3 years

Annie, 1 year

Just looking at this is reminding me of how quickly time goes by, I think I will reminisce for a while, end up crying and eating something that is not very good for me. Thanks alot Hilary!

Dear Kristen

2010-03-04T13:38:00.000-08:00

I saw this on my sisters blog and decided to respond.

Dear Kristen,
Of course you are not heavy, it feels like a feather is floating on my back as we cruise down the mountain.
Snowboard

Dear Kristen,
Even if we invest in the lift, you will find something else that makes you nervous. We do try to keep the birds away for you.
Sundance

Dear Kristen,
We know we have been bad phone talkers. We apologize. You are the treasured sister.
*stop being a suck-up Lindsay
Sisters

Dear Kristen,
Be serious, when was the last time you washed me?
Hair

Dear Kristen,
I thought we had a good thing going. You always look amazing, hence I am amazing.
Wardrobe

Dear Kristen,
Stop pretending you missed me. I KNOW you didn't watch opening or closing ceremonies. Your sister Andrea is a true fan.
Olympics

Dear Kristen,
I am coming. Don't be scared of pastels, they have nothing against you. Try for bold brights.
Spring

Dear Kristen,
Nobody loves me like you. Always and forever.
Diet Coke

Dear Kristen,
Seriously? You want to know about how the stockings go over the boot? We for sure thought you would ask how we even accomplish staying on two feet.
Ice Skaters

Dear Kristen,
You must watch 2, 652 episodes to get the badge. We hear you are close, keep up the good work.
Law & Order

Dear Kristen,
Who are you?
Gym

Dear Kristen,
Tonight we will redeem ourselves. The baby is coming.
The Office

THEY'RE HERE

2010-02-12T19:56:00.000-08:00

2010
B.C., CANADA

The moment I've been waiting for, the OLYMPICS HAVE ARRIVED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am a HUGE fan of the Olympics, summer or winter and I can't wait for all the action to begin.

Olympic Viewing List
1. schedule of all events check
2. DVR set to record the late night action check
3. Athletes bios/inspiring stories check
4. USA flag proudly waving in the front yard check
5. Costco pack of Kleenex check

I'm ready, are you?

Monica?

2010-02-08T18:01:00.000-08:00

As per request....................kristen, this is for you

Remember the "FRIENDS" episode where they all go to the Caribbean for a conference Ross speaks at? You know, the one where Rachel and Joey hook up, the one where Phoebe gets engaged? And who could forget Monica's hair. Not me. The first 10 min. of the show the hair is fine, sleek and straight. Then comes the humidity and her hair gets bigger and bigger. It ends up looking like brown cotton candy and she goes for tiny braids all over. I could have used that look in San Diego. Humidity + my hair = one MAJOR bad hair day. At least we had a good laugh about it!

This photo was taken at the beginning of the night, trust me, it kept growing and growing

A side note, I am the best at the "FRIENDS" trivia game. My favorite part in the above mentioned episode is Monica playing ping pong. Classic.

I just realized that my smile looks like my moms in this pic. Love you mom!

magical.

2010-02-05T13:19:00.000-08:00

One word describes our last week. MAGICAL. We had such a great time doing the so. Cal. tour, the beach, San Diego/Sea World and my favorite part of the trip, DISNEYLAND!! It was a blast to see it all with the Byram family and to make such great memories. Here are the major highlights......................

Randall Family

*Molly didn't make the trip, a HUGE thank you to Aunt Suzanne and Aunt Jill

My favorite photo.....walking to get on space mountain

Annie and Kate with Mary Poppins

we saw her later that day, I said "girls look, it's Mary Poppins!" Mary responded, "Hello Katelyn, Hello Annie."

I almost cried.

Collecting shells at the beach in San Diego

Grandpa & Grandma and all the kids

I did cry while taking this photo. G & G will be leaving in May for the Philippines as temple workers

Trying hard to remove the sword in the stone

Aunt Kristen, Kate and Annie

For some odd reason I didn't take photos of Sea World but it was great! I did tear up during "Believe" the shamu show. Gets me every time!

Annie was the no-fear girl. She went on Tower of Terror 4 times! Later, after a small roller coaster in TOONTOWN I asked what she thought.............."um, it was kind of lame" She loved the thrill rides! Cade was super excited he was tall enough for Indiana Jones. 5 different workers ended up checking him at various points, but he made it! The princess lunch was also a great day, I didn't have the camera but Annie wore her Cinderella costume and loved seeing all the different princess's come to our table. I managed not to cry but was reminded by my beautiful sisters about the last time we went. Yep, cried like a baby! I can't help it, there is something so wonderful about Disneyland. I think it is the sheer joy I get from watching my kids have the time of their lives. I love walking down Main Street and hearing the music, seeing the castle, smelling popcorn, corn-dogs, and churros. It just puts a smile on my face! I am counting down they days until we can take Molly! I will remember to pack Kleenex!

queen bee

2010-01-19T14:57:00.001-08:00

Talk about the queen bee......Molly has a tendancy to rule things around here. She is so cute we let her get away with it!

classy

2010-01-18T15:50:00.000-08:00

We try real hard over here to be classy. What, may I ask, is more classy than a toilet in a bedroom? Talk about one stop shopping! Don't worry, we gave Cade specific instructions not to use it.......so far so good!

don't worry, it is only in the bedroom while we re-do the kids bathroom, it is NOT a permanent fixture.

dreamland

2010-01-13T10:44:00.000-08:00

I hate to brag......but it has to be done. All 3 of my kids have been fantastic sleepers.....good naps and 12 hours at night. Molly has turned into the grand champion of sleep. Last night I put her down at 6:00 as usual. Generally she is awake by 8:15............this morning drumroll please
9:40!!!!!!! WOW! She woke up totally happy and completely ravenous! What a fabulous start to the day!

Christmas Eve '09

2009-12-29T16:05:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was spent at Uncle Luke's and Aunt Jill's with Ben, Alec and Ty. We did the Randall Family tradition of San Francisco sourdough waffles with strawberries and green whip cream. Very festive. We played some games and let the kids exchange cousin gifts. They had a great time. Best quote of the night, after Cade opened his "bendaroos"......."I've been waiting for these my whole life!" It was a great night and we are so happy to have family to share holidays with!

Later we opened one gift, a Byram family tradition, and all put on our new PJ's. Incidentally, we didn't take them off at all on Christmas day. The Christmas day photos were all taken with my new camera, so once I figure it out I will post more! We had a fantastic day and hope you all enjoyed yours too!

7

2009-12-28T13:04:00.000-08:00

December 28, 2002

5:17 am

7 lbs. 10 oz.

21 1/2 in.

Where have the last 7 years gone? Today my baby boy is 7 and as I watched him this morning tears came to my eyes. What a blessing Cade has been in our family. He has grown into such a good kid. He is very kind to his sisters and very protective of them. When Annie was sick he asked every single day when she was coming home. He loves to play with Molly and make her giggle. He has been great fun. I love watching him play sports. He has such a competitive spirit, wonder where that came from! I love playing the Wii with him, even when he tells me I'm not very good! I love his fun personality and his amazing laugh; hearing it makes me laugh. Happy Birthday Cade! I love you.

crazy weekend re-cap

2009-12-13T18:33:00.001-08:00

What a weekend! It was full of Christmas programs, basketball game and party, playing in the snow, playing in mom's boots and The Princess and the Frog. It was super busy but we had a great time with it all!

These boots are made for walking!

The Randall and Jones kiddos
Molly enjoying her first snow!

The Jaguars pizza party!

Go team!

The final game, Cade tore it up!

9 baskets

lots of steals

several rebounds

priceless.

BF '09

2009-11-30T19:06:00.000-08:00

BF '09.......Black Friday, 4:30 am, Erika, Alison, Andrea, Kristen, Lindsay, Idaho Falls and bazillions of others, equals the BEST time!!!! Big cheers to the lady at Target who hurdled the yellow caution tape and blew past a security guard to get in the door, I sure hope she got what she wanted. Erika, post that video on you tube. Sorry to the man whose cart I stole. But really, you shouldn't have turned your back. Sorry to the poor woman Kristen yelled at......and about your vest. Sorry to Perkins, we were really loud! Sorry to Ali and Lindsay for the lady at Wal-Mart who wouldn't leave you alone and talked right into your face. Littlest Pet Shop isn't stupid and who cares that Sam's Club was serving free breakfast, it is called personal space. You should try giving people some. Sorry that Kristen called you useless Erika, but way to keep our spot in line holding a $7 sweatshirt you didn't even buy. Honestly I don't know how the shopping frenzy turned us all into lunatics but I can't wait for next year! A HUGE thank you to Lindsay for making us all go and experience the magic. You are an amazing team leader. Here's to Black Friday 2010, only 357 days to go!

wwf randall style

2009-11-19T20:32:00.000-08:00

I love how ingenious my kids can be. We have a room FULL of toys, books, puzzles, board games, card games, craft projects an so on. Sometimes these items actually get played with, but often they make up silly games that require imagination only. Lately they have been in to making forts, using EVERY blanket, towel, pillow and sleeping bag we own. Then one day it got dangerous. Sliding down the stairs in the nylon sleeping bags........honestly it is an accident waiting to happen but whatever, they were having fun. Then the fun escalated. Thanks in large part to dad. The items mentioned above all ended up in a heap on the landing of the stairs. Cade and Annie began jumping from the top steps into the pile. Micah turned it up a notch and started throwing them into the pile. He did exercise some parental caution and only launched them from about four stairs up, not the top. Good times at the Randalls. St. Lukes here we come.....again!

I'm slipping

2009-11-16T15:29:00.001-08:00

Do you ever think back to the days when you only had one child? Clean house, clean laundry, dinner on the table.....scheduled play dates, trips to the library twice a week for story time.......closets organized, garage organized and an overall calmer life? Back in those days I thought I was so busy, what an idiot I was. I LOVE my children dearly but life is much more chaotic (those of you with more than three kids please stop rolling your eyes) I'm not sure if my standards are lower or if I just care less, but either way I feel I am slipping a bit. Not so much of a schedule these days, laundry is usually done (NEVER the ironing!) we do eat but we have lots of pancakes and waffles for dinner, not much is organized and story time? Right. All I can say is that I am pretty sure the toilets had be cleaned in the last month. Lysol still works after a month right? I love my life.

downstaris bath looking messier than usual
Great, hand in toilet then in mouth. Delicious.

Oh well, she was happy as a clam!

Halloween

2009-11-02T12:55:00.001-08:00

We had a pretty low-key Halloween this year. The kids were excited to go trick-or-treating, we let Annie go around to a few houses then Cade continued on with the neighbors. He was kind enough to share his loot with Annie. Molly was happy until her M&M's were gone. Cutest skeleton, witch, and ladybug I have ever seen! Happy Halloween!

A look back

2009-11-02T12:55:00.000-08:00

Taking a look back over the last 10 days I really REALLY wish we only had the flu. Last thursday we took Annie to the doctor, she had been up early that morning and we could tell she was having difficulty breathing. She seemed to fight off whatever Cade and I had but then it hit her hard. We took her for a chest x-ray and the right lung was FULL of pnuemonia, her oxygen levels were also dipping well below normal. The doctor told us to head to the hospital and she might only have to stay 24 hours. (that may have happened for any "normal" family but not us!) Cut to Friday morning......

8 am chest x-ray was looking worse, a complete white-out

9 am CAT scan shows a HUGE pocket of fluid in her chest cavity that has collapsed her lung. It was a pancake right by her heart.

10 am I am told she needs to be in the ICU......

Later that day they sedated her and put in a chest tube and a PIC line (for antibiotics and to give her nutrition) The doctor told us how serious her condition was, very very scary. She remained in the ICU until Tuesday morning and then transferred to the regular floor were she stayed until Thursday. We have her home and she is recovering nicely. She is very tired, looks pale and has lost weight. My scale said 31 lbs. Her lung is re-inflated but it will take 2 months for it to heal completely. She ended up with Strep A, which generally causes strep throat but for some reason it entered her respiratory system. She also had Strep A in her PIC line which meant it was in her blood stream. She was a fighter through it all and should not have any long-term effects. We are so grateful for her recovery and grateful for the fasting and many prayers on her behalf. He was listening.

Fall/Floors/Flu

2009-10-18T17:13:00.000-07:00

Fall has arrived, leaves are changing colors, the air is crisp and clean. I normally love this time of year but I must admit I was not ready to say goodbye to summer. I have resisted long pants and closed toe shoes for as long as possible but it is officially here. Along with fall coming to our house so has the flu. Yuck. Not sure if it was the dreaded H1N1 or just the regular but it was not fun either way. Cade was home almost the whole week, I came down with it mid week and Molly is currently dealing with it. Micah and Annie are in the clear so far. In the middle of all the sickness we had our new carpet installed. I don't like chaos and I don't like being sick or having sick kids. All three combined nearly sent me over the edge! It's a new week and I am resigned to give into fall, pull out sweaters and jackets and give up the flip flops, sterilize from top to bottom with CLOROX and in the middle of it all, take a nap on my fluffy soft carpet! It really is the little things that make me happy!

Let them eat cake!

2009-10-07T15:23:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Molly's 1st birthday a few days after the actual day with a big party! Grandpa and Grandma Byram came, Rich and Lindsay and the kids and Aunt Jill and the boys all came. We had pizza, presents and of course cake! Molly LOVED the chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting. She was a bit hesitant at first but once she figured out how yummy it was there was no stopping her. That's my girl!

School updates/Playground rules

2009-09-29T18:38:00.001-07:00

I have decided one difference between boys and girls is.......COMMUNICATION! It shouldn't be that big of a shock since I have lived with your basic non-communicator for the last ten years! A typical conversation with Cade goes something like this:

How was school?
fine
What did you do?
learn
What did you learn?
just stuff
How was recess?
good, I just played
With who?
lots of people

Then there is a typical conversation with Annie:
How was school?
It was so much fun, we sang songs, colored pictures, had a snack, it was juice and string cheese, I listened to Miss Denise but some of the kids didn't. Insects have three parts to their bodies and six legs. I looked so cute today, my hair was curly not straight. generally she gets through this in one breath!

Tonight at dinner I did get a few minor details from Cade about recess. He plays chase with some boys and girls. I asked what happened when he got caught, praying is was NOT kiss tag. He informed me that kissing was not allowed and that nothing happens to him because he is way to fast to get caught. All I can say is KEEP RUNNING!

Look how far you've come

2009-09-24T08:17:00.001-07:00

September 23, 2008 5:00 am 5 lbs. 17 in. 35 weeks

It seems like it was just yesterday your sweet spirit came to us, such a beautiful baby, tiny but perfect. From the very beginning I knew you were something special, such a fighter, hanging in there so strong when my body was giving out. Feeling you move and kick I knew you were going through the journey with me and if I could be strong, you would make it. We worked hard together, hoping and praying you would be safe inside me for as long as possible. The doctor didn't think it was possible but we knew better. So many prayed for a miracle and we got one, Molly Violet Randall.

The past year has flown by and I can't believe how you have grown. You have been such fun! Cade and Annie have given too many hugs and kisses to count! Every time you did something new I would remember the journey and be so thankful you were here. I love you so much, happy birthday baby.

Cunningham Cuties

2009-09-12T21:04:00.000-07:00

We had a great Labor Day weekend with a visit from Uncle Scott and Aunt Kristen, the Cunningham Cuties! We had a great time going boating, bowling, shopping, out to dinner and just spending time together. I am pretty sure Scott was ready to go since Annie wouldn't let him out of her sight the entire time he was here. I think you have a new best friend Scooter! Thanks for making the long drive to come and see us! We love you!

NO MORE GUM

2009-09-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning.......rushing to get out of the door........Cade pops in some gum and it accidentally falls right into Molly's hair. Wouldn't come out without the aid of scissors. Molly had her first haircut and I couldn't even save any hair!

Gum story #2
We were in the boat and Annie had gum, spit it out for a snack (big surprise) and it suddenly was smeared all over the boat. Annie's story.....I spit it out in the water and a fish got it, he chewed it and spit it back in the boat. Seweously mom! Seriously Annie, its a good thing you are cute!
NO MORE GUM!

Annie's first day

2009-08-31T19:21:00.000-07:00

All preparations were completed last night. Pick outfit, paint nails to match new dress, name on backpack, decision about what to have for lunch, and how to fix hair. Lots more details with a girl! Annie was very excited to go to preschool, she has the same teacher Cade had so she couldn't wait to go see Miss Denise. She made some new friends and her favorite part was doing the gingerbread man. When she got in the car she wanted to eat him so I opened the bag and passed him back. 10 seconds later the bag came back to me, she told me to close it so he wouldn't run away! I can't believe she is old enough for school! I love you AJ.

First day of 1st grade

2009-08-26T20:14:00.000-07:00

6:55 wake-up

7:10 breakfast of champions, oatmeal

7:25 teeth brushed, hair combed, new clothes

7:35 Transformers backpack on, lunch in Transformers lunch box

7:37 photo-op

7:38 "mom, stop taking my picture, it's go time!"

7:39 me, trying really hard to pull it together!

The morning rush flew by and Cade was super excited to get to school. He actually wanted me to drive him this year, last year I was told "don't come to my school" so I felt pretty good. On the way out he told me he was glad I was his mom. PRICELESS.

*3:30 pm Q&A, best part of the day? 3 recesses. That's my boy!

Last day of freedom

2009-08-25T18:51:00.001-07:00

Since tomorrow is Cade's first day of school (pics and the story of me crying as he leaves to follow) we decided to take our last day of freedom and head to the lake. We have LOVED having the boat this summer, it has been lots of fun for our family. Here are some of the highlights. Thanks Richardson's for coming to play with us!

Last photo of the day, Annie and Sydney completely exhausted!

Zach, Alex and Cade

Cade on the water ski board

Annie on the ski board. (notice mom in the background cheering her on!)

Annie getting ready, she was a bit afraid so I got in with her

What to say about this look? Cracks me up every time he

puts those things on!

Getting ready for a wild ride!

I just realised that the pictures of me doing a backflip on the wakeboard didn't make it, next time for sure! :)

All in a decade

2009-08-20T21:45:00.000-07:00

Aug. 20, 1999

The day it all began.

I married my best friend.

I love you.

Am I being punished?

2009-08-18T12:49:00.000-07:00

It has taken a couple of weeks for me to get up the courage to post..... On the day this occured I felt as though I was being punished..... even now, weeks later, I am still upset. Why did this happen so soon? My baby is CRAWLING! Molly apparently didn't get the memo, NO CRAWLING until at least one year old. She has extremely good control over her body and if she is walking by Sept. 23 I may need to be hospitalized.

July 4......on July 21

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

Again I apologize for the late posting date but here is our 4th of July wrap-up. We went to Rigby for the weekend and were able to spend time with lots and lots of family! The kids rode in the Menan Parade in a wagon pulled by horses and threw candy. They loved it, but we found out later they didn't throw much candy....too busy eating it! Molly loved watching the parade and was completely happy the whole time. She did have a 4 1/2 hour nap before so that may have had something to do with the happiness. After the parade we had a fun BBQ with some family friends and then topped the night off with fireworks and homemade ice cream! We LOVE that Randall tradition!

Connor Taylor (Canadian) with his flag shirt and Molly's purple hat

such a cute boy!
Happy little Molly-pop

Grandpa Jesse, Chelsea, Erika, Kristen, Cade, Annie, Scott and Clay

Cade's loss is Molly's gain

2009-07-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

Apologies, it has been a really long time since I posted. Life gets busy. Cade was DYING to loose a tooth in kindergarten so he could make the tooth chart. After lots of false alarms he finally had a tooth that was wiggly, slightly, about a month before school got out. Sorry, a month isn't long enough to loose a tooth but he FINALLY lost it on Father's Day. (Wow, sorry about the late post!) The permanent tooth was already in behind the baby tooth so it took a bit of tugging with the pliers. Go Micah. Cade asked me tonight if I was going to put his tooth in the computer. So here it is!

The first one in was also the first one out!
He was freaked out but so proud of himself for letting Micah pull it. And yes, I almost cried! As soon as he lost it we noticed that Molly-pop was getting them in! She has 2 on bottom and 3 on top with one more ready to poke through. I would have done photos but she is asleep!

EARS...they don't just look good!

2009-06-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wonder if my children have something wrong with their ears. "guys........guys......guys.......GUYS!" "HEY YOU TWO..." By this time I am usually at top vocal force, and that can get real loud! All my fears were put to rest yesterday after a trip to Costco. I needed a few things and we needed to leave the house so I thought, sure no big deal. Three kids by myself, piece of cake! (actually it was fine, Molly is even big enough to sit in the cart!) So just as we are finishing up we pass a stand where they were giving samples of a specialty juice. I think, because I was paying attention to what the kids were doing, not the lady giving the samples. So, as we walk by Cade asks me what it is. I reply, "juice" Annie jumped in fast as she could and says, "it aides in digestion." It is a miracle. SHE CAN HEAR!

Annie Jane is 4!

2009-06-15T14:45:00.001-07:00

After weeks of anticipation Annie's big day arrived! She was so excited to turn 4 and have a birthday party. She had her list of things she wanted by the 1st of April and she knew she wanted to have a "Fancy Nancy" party. For those of you who don't know, Fancy Nancy is a cute little series about a girl who loves to be a girlie girl. Think lots of pink, crowns, feather boas, gaudy jewelry and plenty of accessories. She had a great day, and it was the first birthday of hers that I didn't cry over! We love you Annie!

Blowing out the candles (a crown, a purse, a high heel and a heart)
Party girls with their manis and make-up

Taking a break from all the pampering

Annie with her b-day loot

The big 4!

Graduation

2009-06-14T14:57:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago Hubbard Elementary held its annual Kindergarten graduation/Family BBQ we couldn't have been more proud of our man! He has done so well this year, working hard in school and making lots of new friends. He learned how to read and it still amazes me that my little boy is not so little anymore. It was fun to spend the morning with him and see how thrilled he was to show us all things kindergarten! We love you Cade!

Cade and his best friend/next door neighbor Dawson
Looking pretty pleased with himself, don't you think?

Officially a 1st grader!

Do Not Disturb

2009-05-28T18:25:00.001-07:00

I always love to discover what little "quirks" each kid is going to have, and they all have many! For whatever reason this is how Molly sleeps...........

it kills me everytime I see her like this! I have tried pulling the blanket down once she is out but within 5 min. she is awake and crying. So, whatever Molly-pop, sleep how you want (as long as you are sleeping) besides, how cute is it!

UP to date

2009-05-27T12:02:00.000-07:00

Life has been flying by too fast these days! We have had a busy spring with lots of company, field trips, soccer awards/final game, playing beauty parlor, and just growing UP in general! Here are the highlights.

I came downstairs and found my "Fancy Annie" reading her favorite books, "Fancy Nancy"

Thanks for the POSH (that's another word for fancy) shades grandma!

Molly is now 8 months old! She is sitting UP all by herself.

Just so you can all see how she has grown, she used to be as big as the doll she is holding!

Annie playing beauty parlor with her "best friend" grandma Debbie

Cade KILLED it during his final game! His team won (they don't keep score but I do!)
BTW......he scored 4 goals!

Soccer awards/pizza party

Coach Steve said Cade was like a tornado on the field, and boy was he!

My 3 favorite things in the world, growing UP way too fast!

MOM

2009-05-10T14:17:00.000-07:00

I know a name, a glorious name. Dearer than any other, it is the name of mother. Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there! Today I have been thinking lots about my mom and here are just a few of the reasons why I love her and some of the ways she is the best person I know. One of my earliest memories is waking up one morning very sick, with the chicken pox, and having her rub my back. Before then and since then nobody makes me feel better when I am sick like mom. I can remember her reading to me often and thanks to her I developed a love of reading that continues this day. I dreaded every Saturday morning when she would hand us our jobs written on recipe cards but now I am so thankful that she taught me how to work. I used to beg her to let me quit piano lessons but I am so glad she made me stick with it. I am NOT a concert pianist but I can play and she taught me to never give up. I don't know anyone who is more willing to give than her. She showed me how to be selfless and to serve others. I wonder how many moms would put their lives on hold to take care of their grown daughter, a son-in-law and two crazy kids for months. Then, just when she thought she was getting her life back I found out I needed her more than ever. Once again she put her life on hold and came to the rescue. How many mothers are present when their daughter hears the horrible diagnosis of cancer and immediately tells her, "don't worry, everything will be okay" I believed her because she is my mom and she is never wrong. She showed me faith and gave me courage when I needed it most, and she wasn't wrong, everything was okay. Mom, you are the best and I love you so much! Thank you for teaching me how to become a good person and most importantly for showing me how to be a good mother. I love you.

Where are you spring?

2009-05-08T21:24:00.001-07:00

About 10 days ago we had glorious weather in Boise, three whole days in the 80's and since then nothing but wind and rain. Where did you go spirng? Please come back.

Soakin' up all that sun
Annie's muscles

Cade's muscles

A side note......any ideas on how to get a 6 year old to crack 40 lbs?

In another life

2009-04-30T12:19:00.000-07:00

I must start this post off by saying if you need a good laugh, read my sisters blog Cunningham is the link. (Also try Yes im single it is a good time) Anyway, on the latest Cunningham post my sister had a random phone call. I commented that she should hire a private investigator and then I said I wish I was a PI. All this got me thinking on what I would be doing in another life. Here is my list...
in no particular order.

1. Private investigator..... I would be so good at this. Give me a pair of binoculars and a car with tinted windows and I could do a stake-out all night long. (Until I needed to eat or use the facilities then forget it)
2. Oprah.... I could so do that job! I can talk, what else is really required? Plus I would be famous and have Bob Greene for a personal trainer so I'm pretty sure I would have and amazing body.
3. I was thinking perhaps model, what with my body looking so good with the help of Bob Greene, however, I am fairly certain that my height doesn't meet the necessary requirements. Nor do some of my other body parts. Plus a big downfall, I LOVE to eat and could never survive on one cheese cube a day. BONUS "I'm one stomach flu away from my goal weight" Can you name that movie?
4. A cop.... NO laughing! For those of you who know me REALLY well you will understand this.

So there you have it, just a few things that I might be doing in another life.
My real life is WAY better than all of those BTW!

Surprise

2009-04-28T07:18:00.000-07:00

I love it when my kids give me a surprise. Annie was busy calling "mom, mom, mom, MOM" I turned around and got this surprise.......

I laughed so hard my stomach started to hurt! When you expect to see your daughter in a princess costume and find her in this get-up, what a SURPRISE!

Cade gave me a surprise on Sunday, he is a sarcastic little thing. I was driving home from church and stopped at a stop sign. Now, he only weighs 40 lbs. and so if you stop fast his booster slides out from under him. So I came to a stop (apparently an abrupt one) and here is the conversation....
"Geez mom, where did you get your license? Clown school?"
"WHAT did you say?"
"I said, where did you get your license? Clown school?"
I'm sorry, I didn't realize I had a 15 year old in the back seat! I was stunned he could come up with something like that to say, but don't worry, once again it was a movie that influenced him. Scobby-Doo this time.

Molly-pop gave us a surprise last night too! I told Micah I thought maybe she was teething because she had been crabby all day. He put his finger in her mouth and sure enough, she has a tooth! I confess it took all I had to not cry. What is happening to my baby? I can tell that with each milestone I will be a big cry-baby. I am going to need Prozac when she walks. She just amazes me! Last year at this time we didn't know if a baby would even make it to our home, and here she is, perfectly healthy and getting teeth!

PS I secretly pray she won't walk until she is 15 months old!

Miller Time

2009-04-23T14:30:00.000-07:00

Last weekend our good friends Jared and Natalie Miller and their boys came for a visit. We had such a great time! All the kids got along so well and the adults had a great time playing lots of games. I love it when friends come to visit and it doesn't feel like 3 years have gone by! It was fun and as my sister said, "That Natalie is always a good time!" Truer words were never spoken.

Molly and Benson

The babies were so great all weekend, even being drug to a movie, they both slept!

Annie and Lincoln

These two were in-seperable the whole weekend, I can see the engagement photo already!

Cade, Lincoln, Jordan and Ethan

This is the one photo everyone was looking at the camera and not the WII

Easter Fun

2009-04-15T12:39:00.000-07:00

All dressed up!

(How cute are these kids!)

Cade trying to keep his candy away from mom!

Annie loving the egg hunt

All the cousins lined up waiting for the hunt to begin

Cade in his best defensive pose
(he is the one in the back)

"I wonder how hard I can kick this ball?"

As you can see we had a very busy but fun Easter weekend! Lots of Easter activities combined with a soccer game on Saturday had us "hopping" all day!

Randall Disney Strike Ends Peacefully

2009-04-09T06:50:00.001-07:00

After less than 5 hours the Disney Strike has ended at the Randall home. It was all for the greater good, either watch a movie or tie the kids up. I think I chose well.

Disney strike

2009-04-03T17:42:00.000-07:00

So I have offically decided to go on a Walt Disney movie strike. I'm sure you all remember the post from the other day in which I related a story about Cade calling me Cruella. Well, he has done it again! Yesterday we took the kids out for a celebratory lunch to Burger King. (Cade's choice for having a fabulous report card, the kid is too smart for his own good!) On the way home he told me that two boys were being mean to them in the playland. Here is how the conversation went down.......
Cade: Two of those boys were being really mean to me and Annie. They weren't letting us climb up the slide. (duh, slide etiquette, no climbing UP it!)
Me: Really, that isn't very nice.
Cade: Don't worry, I called them imbeciles!
Me: WHAT?
Cade: Yeah, I told them what imbeciles they were.
Perfect. If you own 101 Dalmatians I suggest you burn it. Anyway, what is up with Disney? 101 Dalmatians isn't my only issue, here are some others.

1. Cruella smokes
2. Cinderella is abused
3. Belle lives with a beast
4. Seashells. I don't think I need to go into that!
5. Why don't any of them have mothers? Sleeping Beauty is the only one and her mom ships her off to live with fairies.

DISNEY MOVIE STRIKE
(I might last 2 days!)

Spring Fever?

2009-04-02T12:47:00.000-07:00

These pics were taken on the ONE day when it was half decent outside! These two definitely have spring fever!

A good look, sweats and flip flops!

Those are capris with the moon boots, also a good look!

I hate it when I ask my kids a question and they look at me like I am a fool. Here's how the conversation went down.

"what are you two doing?"

"planting grass" this was followed by an eye roll Erika would have been proud of!

Just so you know they were playing in our garden spot.

Bring on Spring! Actually forget spring, I'm ready for summer!

Molly pop

2009-03-28T12:58:00.001-07:00

Miss Molly is 6 months old! Where did time go? I still feel like she should only be about 3 mo., mainly because I have only taken care of her for about 3 mo. Thanks again Grandma Debbie for all the help! She (Molly not Debbie) started cereal and loves it! She even rolled over yesterday. I admit I almost cried! My baby is growing too fast! She is such a sweetie, very mellow and happy, we LOVE LOVE LOVE her!

Spring Break

2009-03-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

This past week has been Cade's spring break and we have tried to do some fun things, especially since the weather has been rotten. I have to say this time of year I REALLY miss living in California, bring on the sun please!
Our break started off with a trip to Rigby to visit family. We had a great time staying with G&G Byram, even though there is no kitchen. What a mess! We had fun playing with Hathaways and Rich's family. Lindsay is awesome for taking care of Sun. dinner! Love you Lins!
Micah and I took the kids bowling on Mon. and I must say I had the game of my life. 149! Micah was a distant second with 97. That's right, 97. Better luck next time Micah! We also had lunch at Broulims, a fabulous eatery Kristen left off her tribute to "Rig" my only complaint is that they no longer make jumbo chocolate chip cookies. Can't have it all can you.
All in all we had a great time and the kids traveled well, thank goodness for DVD players in vehicles. 101 Dalmations was a favorite to watch, harmless Disney movie, right? WRONG! I told Cade to brush his teeth the other day and he responded by saying, "OK Cruella!" Yikes! Not what you want your kid calling you. Apparently I need to work on my "please" and "thank you's" What will they say next? (i'm pretty sure I don't want to know the answer to that) I am having issues with my camera, pictures to follow soon!

Why I love you

2009-03-21T15:29:00.000-07:00

So todays blog is all about the reasons why I love the people in my family. Enjoy.

MICAH
1. he said yes when I asked him to marry me
2. we have a really great history (dance dates/first kisses)
3. he refers to himself as MLR
4. he read the Twilight series
5. he laughs at my jokes (sometimes)
6. he is a great dad

CADE
1. he lets me play the Wii with him even though I stink
2. he makes his bed every morning
3. he is so sweet to Molly
4. he plays great with Annie (unless they are fighting)
5. he will still let me kiss him good-night
6. he has an awsome laugh

ANNIE
1. she never leaves home w/o her purse or lipstick on
2. she lets me borrow her lipstick
3. she loves to snuggle
4. she is the best helper (cleaning is her favorite thing to do)
5. she plays a mean hand of Go Fish
6. she sleeps in until at least 8 am

MOLLY
1. she is still a baby
2. she has the best smile
3. she is very mellow
4. it looks like she is going to have brown hair
5. FINALLY a kid that looks like me
6. she is snuggly

Cade's not allergic to ham, right?

2009-03-16T09:22:00.001-07:00

So the kids were asking if we could get a pet yesterday. Unfortunately/thankfully Cade is allergic to both cats and dogs. I HATE cats so we would never get one and I am afraid of dogs so that was probably not happening either. Anyway, I reminded Cade that he was allergic so the answer was no. Then came the discussion of what they could get.
* Bird (NO WAY Kristen would never come visit)
*Fish...possibly. We have had one before but I froze it, on accident! During the CA trip last winter there was no heat and the poor guy didn't make it.
*Frog...EW gross.

Last but not least my favorite idea that Annie came up with
"a hamster. Cade's not allergic to ham, right mom!" Sorry but that is probably the cutest thing I have ever heard! I had a good laugh. Once it was settled that IF we got a pet it would be a fish, the naming began. Here is a list of possibilities of the name for the fish we may/may not get.

Fish (original)
Mr. Fish
chuck
mashed potatoes (we were also discussing dinner at the time)
chuck taylor

Time will tell if I relent and let them get the fish. I hate cleaning out the bowl, it sicks me out. They were also curious about were fish poop and pee goes. Perhaps I should turn on Animal Plant once in a while.

Random Randall Facts

2009-03-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

So I thought it might be fun to list a few facts about our family, these are just a few of the highlights.

1. The parents have known each other for almost 20 years
2. We have been married almost 10 years
3. Cade doesn't mix food. For example, he eats all the meat first, then salad, then veggies.
4. Annie says "fableeus" and "family home evenling"
5. We love to watch AFV on sunday nights (America's Funniest Videos)
6. Micah HATES mac and cheese
7. I LOVE mac and cheese
8. Cade thinks Micah knows everything
9. Annie has to have lipstick and perfume on everday and rarely leaves home w/o her purse
10. I love The Biggest Loser and I cry at some point during every episode
11. Micah makes fun of me every week for crying!
12. Molly just started growling like a dog!

Hope you enjoyed the "Random Randall Facts"

Two monkeys off my back

2009-03-10T09:48:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you have heard the saying "there's a monkey on my back" refering to things you need to do. Every morning I wake up to this...

and I usually get out of bed and don't bother with it. The last 2 mornings (a record for me) I have actually used the darn thing! I am starting slow, 20 min., but at least I have done it!

The photo of the laundry basket represents my ironing, which is now done! It took my 1 hour and 45 min. yesterday but I did it! I am setting the world on fire! (I just need to figure out how to post photos correctly now)

Sick and Tired of being sick and tired

2009-03-04T18:40:00.000-08:00

So, as you can tell from the title of the blog the Randallicious clan is sick. Annie started first and after about 4 days we all followed. Molly unfortunately came down with RSV. I always feel so bad for babies when they are sick. She is hanging in there and still trying to be happy and smile for us. What a trooper. I did a major bleach cleaning session in the kids bathroom tonight and I dare any germ to try and survive. No photo of that, I figure no one needs to see me on hands and knees with my yellow rubber gloves on. (don't worry, those weren't the only things I was wearing!) Speaking of, every time I put those gloves on it takes me back to the old days; recipe cards with jobs on them and of course, "the purple carpet rule is now in effect."

New Do

2009-02-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

Annie has been asking to get a haircut for about 2 weeks now so I finally made an appointment. As soon as she got in the chair I decided it would be great if she had a stacked A-line. Once the curls started to fall my tears almost did too! She has had lots of trims but never a real cut. We saved the curls for the scrapbook page and it can still go curly. I think it makes her look more grown up. She loves it and can't quit looking at herself. What do you think?

Happy Birthday!!!

2009-02-22T19:51:00.000-08:00

Today was Micah's birthday, it was a joy to celebrate yet another year of his grand existance. What would we do without him. We started off with gift opening at 7 am thanks to Annie. She couldn't wait any longer to see what daddy would get. Then it was off to church and home for a great meal prepared by Jesse and Debbie. They arrived last night about 8 and were out of here by 3. We love it when they come, even if it is just to escape the remodel project. See you next weekend mom and dad? Tonight Luke and Jill and their kids came for cake and ice cream. Good day! Enjoy the photos!

Oh Canada

2009-02-17T15:38:00.000-08:00

Oh, Canada/God save the queen! We had a fabulous visit from Aunt Erika this past weekend, it had been almost 4 long years since she had been to Boise. We had a great time, lots of good sister bonding, free babysitting, shopping, cards, the Wii, and yummy food. We tried to see Confessions of a shopaholic but we were to busy shopping! Micah commented that I must be feeling really good if I can shop for three days straight. Guess my charade is up. We even had a bonus visit from Jess who made the trip saturday night after work. If you ever want a good laugh ask Jesse to box with you on the Wii. Good times. Cade and Annie were disappointed that Connor wasn't able to make the trip but I am pretty sure his mother was loving the solo vacation. Cade loved to play Mario cart with Erika, even if she always came in 11th place. Annie loved having Erika fix her hair and do make-up with her every morning. I just loved spending time with my sister. "I could never love anyone as I love my sisters" We also have a great brother and we love him too. I have some award winning photos of him I am dying to post but I need his permission first. Re: Christmas Cleavage Can't wait for the next visit!

Meet the Randalls

2009-02-16T20:10:00.000-08:00

Here is the family daredevil! He loves trying everything, at least once! This was a recent sledding trip, he had a big crash that left him with ice burn on his nose. Don't worry, he thinks scars are "sick" is he really only 6?

Oh, to be 3 again! This lovely lady LOVES playing dress up. Pleas note the hair is a wig. She longs for long hair but barely manages chin-length. We love our princess!

Here is our Molly-Pop, she has a striking resemblance to Aunt Kristen, what beauties! She is a sweet baby, mostly smiling and good natured. We love having her in our party.

Disclaimer

2009-02-16T19:55:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our "Pary of 5" many thanks to Kristen for helping to get me started. Alright, she basically did the whole thing for me. Sisters are the best! I am going to try really hard to figure all this out on my own and attempt to create a decent blog. Husband already gave me his input, I won't be asking his opinion any longer! Wish me luck in my new blogging adventures!