Photos...

I just had the boys photos taken at Flash Digital Photography Studio in Vancouver. I invite all of you to look at them, he got 3 pages of pictures for us to look at. They turned out great. Anyway, I wanted to share with you these two...the joys of my life.:)

www.flashportraits.com

go to "My Portraits", enter last name "Wilson", and you can click on "Allison Wilson".
Password is :kmamikgr

Enjoy...happy holidays.

Stress-

Saw this today on msn.com (where you can read the entire list if you want) but I always find it interesting the read/hear what those outside of our career think of us and what we do. All that I have ever known, is that I am here to serve others. And nursing has ALWAYS been my choice as a way to do that for others. No matter who you are, I care about you! Sounds corny and cliche' but, seriously...it's how my heart works. Sometimes it's a blessing, and other times a curse. I just thought I'd share...that behind retail sales people....we are ranked #2 in job stress. I can appreciate this, although I do believe with the economic downturn...I have job security...something much less stressful than those who do not. (I also posted Kevin's ranking....just for fun) Here it is:


If you want to find a job that is free of stress, you're out of luck. Only characters in movies and on TV have jobs that don't cause occasional hair-pulling or high blood pressure. These are the same people who have huge apartments overlooking skylines and plenty of time to hang out with friends. Their jobs have unbelievably flexible hours.
In real life, however, every job you take, no matter how big or small, finds you stressed out once in awhile. Whether you're dealing with an endless line of customers, a demanding executive or an uncertain economy, anxiety will find you. It's just part of life.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, occupational stress originates from a variety of issues, including:
- Long hours with few or no breaks
- Employees unable to participate in the decision-making process
- Job insecurity and large amounts of impending change
- Physical danger
Some jobs have more stress than others. That's not to say they're bad jobs, they just require people who are strong enough to handle the increased stress that comes their way. Here are eight of them:
1. Retail Salespeople
2. Doctors and nurses
Why: Doctors and nurses deal with life and death on a regular basis, a pressure found in few occupations. They have to handle patients while accessing an encyclopedia of medical knowledge. Doctors and nurses who work in hospitals or clinics that don't keep regular business hours often work on little sleep and are on call even on days off. In recent years, doctors have also been forced to deal with an increase in malpractice lawsuits.
5. Firefighters
Why: When firefighters are on call, they've got to be ready to respond to emergencies that range from minor car accidents to huge explosions. They might go an entire shift with no emergency or they might get a call that keeps them out for hours. Perhaps most importantly, they're playing with fire, literally. That's stressful enough.

Summer gone...so soon?

Don't you love our "boat hair"?

Ian floating.

Ian kneeboarding.

Gavin kneeboarding!

What a great summer we have had! It was truly the best. We never made it to all the places we had tenatively planned....water park, Enchanted Forest, beach, etc. We only managed to make it to the lake!:) Once we got our boat..we've all enjoyed it. We've brought, friends and family out, and done it alone many times now. I feel like an old pro!:) It has been serious family bonding time for all of us. Ian is now getting in the water, I suspect him and Gav will be kneeboarding alone by the end of next year. We just love it! The water is so relaxing, and we all spent the entire day as a family. I cherish this summer-it was the best. Maybe not the most exotic or adventurous...but serious family fun!

Cooper's HERE!!!

What an amazing day it was yesterday...as Reshma said "it's Cooper Day!" Thanks for being my pal yesterday Resh, had a great time with you! Also...I stole these pictures from her blog, I forgot my camera...but I used Ben and Heather's to take some of them later in the afternoon when they were alone with Baby. Anyway....details: 6 lbs 15 oz, 19 1/2 inches...and wide awake! Also..cuter than CUTE! Heather had a less eventful delivery this time around (thank GOD!) and they did beautifully. They did it all with such grace. Ben was amazing...he really stepped up...he hates hospitals, etc. and was such a supportive husband for Heather. Makes us all proud! Welcome to the family Cooper!!!! Lots of fun and excitement and suckers (if Nana has anything to say about it) coming your way! We love you!!!

Check this out!

I probably should explain... a little. Our dear friend Torri put this together, and sent it to us. Kevin, Vic, and Kevin have been at Camas together for all of 7 years, and the other 2 a few years more. This picture was taken at Torri's birthday party-redneck style (UFC included!) and these 3 need NO excuse to pose for the camera!:) Gotta Love Em'!!!!

My Favorite Guys!

First off, my brother (another favorite!:) took all these pictures yesterday at Boston's Birthday party...so I can take no credit for how great they are! Especially Reshma's facial expression behind Gav's goofy grin! Ben sent me no pictures of Boston either...so he's missing...but certainly another of my fav's!:) Most of all I love the picture of Kevin and my Dad. I don't have enough pictures of them, usually it's all of the boys...this was a nice addition to our pictures-thank you Benny. And Happy Birthday to my little B! He is so grown up, I can't believe it. We had a BLAST at the party, thanks to a very pregnant Heather for putting it all together. I am blogging less, and much more busy these days....not sure if I am going to continue to do it. We'll have to wait and see.

A Weekend of Showers

It was baby extravaganza for me this weekend. My girls Heather and Shannon both had baby showers this weekend. It started with Heather's shower for Brunch Saturday am, which was such a blast and nicely done. It was at her aunts home in the Pearl which had a breathtaking view. It was lots of fun seeing Heather's friends and family...plus hanging with my Mom is always lots of fun. I met a girl their who said...are you Ben's sister? You look JUST like him. I think it was supposed to be a compliment...but my brother is a 3o year old man...and I don't want to be thinking that I look too much like him!:)
Today it was a day at Shan's cousin Kim's house...which was the home where Shan grew up. It was the first time I have been there since her Mom died. It brought up alot of emotions, but it was great to see it at the same time. I had a blast with Crystal ( Kyle's Mom...I completely LOVE this lady) and Traci...and our little prego Shan. She looks so cute!

The both have somewhere between 5-8 weeks left..and they both look stunning! Both babies have names which is super fun for me...cause now I can talk to THEM! Cooper Billups and Peyton Mae Laier.....Can't WAIT to cuddle you both!!!! Love your Aunt Ally/Auntie Al

Our newest addition!

We've spent about 5 days out on the river out of the last 10...and we fit it in WHENEVER we can! The boys are tubing, Kevin is kneeboarding, and I am driving! I have been on the tube, but something about being in deep water, having my face soaked with water isn't that appealing to me. Maybe it just has to grow on me? All in all, we've done great! We are going to Lake Merwin which is about 35 min from our house, and it is all backroads, covered in trees. So it is relaxing, and the boys have slept everytime on the way home. Anway...just wanted to share our latest hobby with you and let you know...any sun, and we are off work...I won't be blogging!:)

Boat FUN!

Sorry...not too many blogs for me these days...I have much to do...like enjoy our new boat!
We are totally loving it..and I will post pictures of the boys. They are out on the tube!:) Yikes! We are so thankful to be in the position we are in financially, so that we could finally afford the boat we've waited nearly 5 years for! It was truly worth the wait....sorry...off to the lake !....

Todays the BIG day...

Yep..you guessed...I am the big 33! WoW! I can't believe it...I feel pretty good about it. Age is going to happen whether I like it or not. I thought I would put down a few of my LONG term goals...things you might know about me...or thought you did...or maybe not at all!!!

1.) Get a boat-getting close..it arrives this Saturday from Tacoma!!!:)
2.) Join NW Medical Teams and aid in disaster relief and care for sick and injured children.
3.) Get my scrapbook room completely organized...yes, this truly is a LONG term goal!
4.) Get my CEN (Certified Emergency Room Nurse) certification.
5.) Read a book I actually WANT to read...that isn't about raising children!
6.) Send everyone I know a birthday card...on time!
7.) Get laser eye surgery....then again...maybe not!:(
8.) Create a eye popping garden area that is the sanctuary I dream of.
9.) Look at each day as a new one...and know that I am truly doing what I am supposed to be doing on this earth at this time.

Happy Birthday Lovey!!

You, Gavin, are my love....Your smile, your sense of humor...it's fantastic! Your outlandish temper, aggressiveness, and competitiveness is unlike any other!!! I know you will do fantastic things with your life. You my son, were truly my surprise....God intended for you to come at a time I wasn't quite ready for....but, I am so thankful. You remind me so much of Uncle Benny, I can't believe it...and your so social!!! Rolling the car window down to wave at the 16-17 year old girls DRIVING next to us....calling our babysitter Rebecca.."my pretty princess" and your true love of Star Wars, are creating memories for me that I hope I will never forget. Requesting a very specific "Lego Boba Fett" birthday party, and your constant dressing up in costumes...makes me love you even more. Today, I asked you what you wanted to be when you grow up, A POLICE...you said. You told me you want to carry a gun, ride on a motorcycle, and have a big helmet. I think the big helmet part was supposed to distract me from EVERYTHING else you had just said...because you know how important safety is to me!;) I love you for always trying to make me happy and proud. I look forward to sharing our lives together with many more happy memories! Love, "Princess Mommy"

The "Rockin' Out" Wilson's!!!!

I'll post pictures soon...but we are CRAZY in love with our Wii! We just got Wii Rock Band- and the boys are on guitar, vocals, and Kev on guitar. They are simply adorable! It's a fun morning activity before I head to work. I love music, and to hear Gavin humming the theme to Indiana Jones, Ian sitting on him drum stool (yes,...Ian has a drum set!!!) and Kevin playing a FENDER guitar (he loves it even if it is Wii) maybe someday he'll get that Fender he's always wanted? It's pretty cute. We didn't even know they made if for Wii, but we went shopping on our anniversary before we went to Cinetopia and saw "The Happening"-awesome, gruesome, and truly scary!!! and we saw it at Best Buy. A coincidence....but we are loving it!!!:) Maybe you can hear us at your house?

13 years ago....

I was nervous, anxious, and in oblivious to what was going to happen to me. I married Kevin 13 years ago today, and wow...how things have changed. I was 19, and thought I knew what the world was like, and boy...I was ready to conquer. And to be quite honest...conquer..we did! We haven't had it easy...5 years + in the Navy...6 moves between Virginia and Maryland, schooling, a 6-month tour, new cities, new grocery stores (thats been a constant problem for me!:), new friends...holidays both alone and together...and without our parents, brothers, and closest friends around us. It was hard...it was some of the most difficult times in my life, but also we grew. We grew in so many ways, and thankfully we grew together. Thirteen years later, I know I made the right choice to marry you Kev-and look how far we've come! Happy Anniversary to Us!!

Quite the day...

Today was a LONG day. I worked until 12:30am and then woke up to head to the Children's Fair at Salmon Creek Hospital. It dawned on me today...that I know people. I also felt so good waking up and being there for something I am passionate about...children's safety. I spent 3 hours in the morning checking car seats...and then went to check with my friends (and 10 U of P students) that I had coordinated working with for the helmet fair. I then bounced over to visit my friends at Pediatric Rehab...I've gotten to know all of them because of the boys..and we share a mutual passion...KIDS! and then met up with my boss who was making finger casts with a few of the U of P students. Then finished up the day at the car seat clinic, met up with my mother in law, and she brought the boys to the fair-they had an absolute blast! And then we all had a late lunch. It was a great end to a great day. It was less crowded than last year..though we know early on we had well over 600 children-and with Vancouver's new helmet law (ALL adults and children must wear a helmet within city limits or face a $50 fine) I know TONS of helmets walked out of there today. It feels good..to know good people who are all working towards a goal no matter how unattainable it seems sometimes....just knowing we are out with the community educating them on safety feels good...even if they can't apply all of it. I usually think of myself as someone who just goes to work and does my job...but on a day like today...where I knew just about everyone there, it felt awesome, comfortable, and fun!:)

Our Preschool Graduate-

Gavin is finished! He is SO ready for Kindergarten...I don't think he realizes that he has the entire summer off. Everyday he asks if he has school tomorrow?! It's pretty cute! Ian is also counting down...5 days left for him...then he is graduating Kindergarten. I just can't believe how fast they are growing up! It is just amazing.

The Season is over....

Well...our first of MANY, I do believe, baseball season's is officially over! Ian grew by leaps and bounds throughout the season. He started off hiding behind Kevin...by the last 5 games..he had decided he had a "favorite" position, and wasn't shy about asking to play it. He's our little catcher, and he started off not knowing anything about the game, and in the end...he was really catching on. He got his trophy yesterday ,and was excited about it! And though getting him to go was sometimes a struggle, I am so happy to see his growth emotionally and socially!:) His coach is what made it all worthwhile..and he said he's coming back next year...and would like the same kids...so I am pretty sure we are in this for awhile!:) And hey, did you hear, 4000 ft snow level by Thursday...my little skiier is already ready! He can't wait to get up there, how strange, he finished t-ball, and now he's going skiing again? PLAY BALL!!!

Happy Birthday!!!

You guessed it! Today, my Man turns....35!? Can you believe it? Me neither..he's such a hottie!! Seriously, he looks great! Even with his metal mouth...for another year or so! Anyway, I never say enough how much you mean to me...but I love you! You are the best complement to my personality..ever. I love you, and hope you have a fantastic day today. I am so sorry you have to be on shift....

I thought it'd be fun to list some mostly unknown facts about Kevin...how about 20?
Here goes:

1.) The guy can FIX just about everything! He also knows what makes ANYTHING work!
2.) He has braces..to adjust his bite and give him an overbite, to decrease grinding his teeth. I know it looks like he doesn't need them! But there is a reason.
3.) He plays guitar...self-taught.
4.) He writes songs, and shares a few with special people. The first song he ever wrote was for his beloved Grandpa.
5.) He is getting an A in his Fire Admin. class-the final is tomorrow! :)
6.) He has 3 articles about to be published in "Fire-Engineering" Magazine.
7.) He HATES mowing the lawn.
8.) He "was the most squared away sailor in the Atlantic Fleet." Prior to his Presidential Assisgnment. (He will NEVER tell you this...he is SO humble...but I am so PROUD of him)
9.) He loves to ski, and is awesome at it.
10.) He is the teacher in our family. He has the patience, and a wonderful way of explaining EVERYTHING to the boys. He'll be teaching them to drive...I'll be at home freaking out!
11.) He DOES sleep at night! (most think he's up all night, he gets so much done in his days.)
12.)He is a project finisher...I am too lucky...but he's married to one who's not!
13.) He loves HIS cat Cheeto!:)
14.) He secretly wants a daughter.
15.) He BUILT our computer.
16.) He can cook.
17.) He makes wierd food combos...like he wanted to use hummus, feta cheese, and A-1 sauce on his burger the other night?
18.) He's a chocoholic!
19.) He loves bright colored clothing...
20.) He is an outstanding father to our boys, and a loving and supportive husband...WAIT, that's not something you already know!:)

Love you honey!

Playa del Carmen...

Ahhhh.....miss that sunshine, and warm sand! Two weeks and I'm still not back into the swing of things!

A Few Cancun Photos...

We enjoyed Playa del Carmen much more than Cancun...but here's a few pictures (I don't have those photos on this computer yet!) I figured 2 weeks home was LONG enough!

The Boys

Spur of the Moment fun!

In a family of planners, a quick spur of the moment get together..is practically unheard of. But, tonight I got a call at 4pm to come over to Mom and Dad's for a BBQ with Ben and Heather. We had a blast! The boys swam in the clean, but 75 degree hot tub...BRRRR, and I got to catch up with Benny and Heath...with their impending little on, it was so much fun! Because I have a now or never attitude with my life, I love sharing my feelings with those that mean the most to me. I love Ben and Heather so much, and Boston is such a little "shining light" in my life. They way he says "Ally" is so cute...and I just eat it up! We got to hash over new boy names...and I am telling you these 2 could write a book of baby names...seriously they have THE BEST names between the both of them. Bossy wants to name the baby "Sarah", Gavin "Gracias" (from our recent mexico trip) and Ian...well, his was an aim at a laugh...male genitalia...he never stops with his antics lately...it is driving me nuts! It was awesome. Colin made slushies for all the kids in their favorite flavors which was so thoughtful! THanks Uncle C! And anybody who's been to my house, knows that my Dad makes the best fries...and awesome homemade angelfood cake Mom! The boys and I had a fantastic time, and I love you all!

Home...safe and sound...

Wow! We are home....finally! Yes 2 weeks, was a bit long for us to be gone. By day 10...we were ready to get home..which actually was an "ah-hah" moment for me. I remember as a kid going on vacation...Benny and I never wanted it to end and practically cried when it was over. And my parents would always say they "were ready to be home." I remember thinking, "I will never be like my parents. I will always love my vacation and have as much fun as I can." Well..look at me now! I am saying the same thing! Yikes! I missed so much while I was gone, my friends...my lonely cat, my CAR, MOTHER"S DAY, and finding out about my newest nephew! I will spend the next few days catching up on my blogging...but I am HAPPY TO BE HOME!:) LOTS OF GREAT PICTURES TO POST!

A new day...

We are all moving forward after yesterday...and looking forward to our vacation. We leave tonight, and the boys think we are leaving tomorrow! It's been fun keeping that from them. The real reason I did it was because getting them to school, speech, and swimming today would have been impossible if they thought we were leaving today. We will let them know later! I am finishing packing and cleaning...and looking forward to an escape.

Please pray for my dear friend Traci and her husband Brian...as well as their son Andrew. In a turn of circumstances he had to have colon surgery yesterday and is in the PICU at Emanuel. Please pray for comfort for his parents and quick, painless healing for him. Thanks.

Devastated...

Well, if you don't want to be depressed.....stop reading right now. I am going to use my blog, to help myself right now. I thought today I'd blog about being 1 day away from our trip, but instead we found my cat dead on our deck this morning. Talk about shock! I loved this guy so much, like I have loved no other animal in my life. There was just a connection. He made me laugh, was my companion and just genuinely liked me exactly the way I am. No matter what. He waited for me after work....and just the sound of his bell was music to my ears. My eyes are swollen, to the point of ridiculousness...and I can't eat a thing. I am sick with sadness. We have last minute errands, and packing to do...but I don't care. I just can't make sense of it. He's 4, taken care of, and totally loved...and he is TAKEN from me! Why? I just don't and won't understand. He brought me joy, why must that leave? I have SO many questions for God right now......starting with why him? why me? why now? Watching Ian cry today...going to the crematorium and picking out an urn...why me? why now? why him? So many people don't care about their animals....and they get to live....why do mine live such short lives? We love them so, would do anything for them...why? People mistreat animals...and then stock pile 100 of them...I love mine...and they are gone too soon. People chain up their dogs, kick them, beat them, and lock their cats outside....not me! And why? Because they mean something to me. They are a part of our family. I adored this cat! He was awesome. He waited at the bus stop with the kids, hung out in the treehouse, and hid behind the door to startle his brother. Garfield meant so much to me. He was my dear loving cat...who lived up to every part of his namesake. He was a bit chubby, lazy, and would jump on my chest every night, and sniff me right in the face...twice....just to let me know "I'm here Mom!" and I loved it! He'd knead in my leg or arm...yeah it hurt...but he loved it...so, I tolerated it! I am SO SAD! I love you my Garf! I would do anything to bring you back....

Bumps in the road....

Pink eye....really? That's what I've been saying and thinking ALL week...and now it is continuing into this next week. ARGH!!! It started last Sunday night with Gavin, lots of goop and red eyes, then by Wed..he was better, and Ian started....Ian has had a more resistent strain and ended up on a second antibiotic on Friday night, and then I went to bed last night knowing it was coming for me in the morning. I so far have only 1 eye red, but we leave 10 days, and Kevin hasn't gotten it yet! I remember it as a kid...but seriously so much worse as an adult! Hopefully, I'll be better tomorrow (I am trying to be so positive, because if the other guy starts...I will have to call in sick Wed...which I don't want to do.) So say a little prayer for us! Kevin is certainly keeping his distance from ALL of us! Smart guy!

Fourteen Days...and counting!!!

In 14 days, I am going to be sitting on a beach in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. I can hardly wait. Both kids have had pink eye this week...and all this rain! Yuck. The only sunny day over the weekend...I worked, and I spent Sunday and Monday at a conference...I'll share more about that another day...it was awesome! So needless to say...those colorful chains can't come off soon enough! The boys and I built a colorful countdown chain for days until Mexico and every morning Ian runs out of bed and pulls one off! He then announces how many days...and so he gets us thinking vacation first thing every morning! I have cabin fever so bad, but after today, I have only 3 days of work left until we leave....I'm kindof funny that way...I count backwards continuously...it's a wierd little thing I do! I always cross off days off my calendars...lists, and I know how many days until whatever it is that I am looking forward to. In nursing school I had a list too...it started at more than 300 days...you could say I have some OCD in me! It does bother me when I think about it because I wonder if I am always waiting for the next "big" thing and not enjoying the little things...but truthfully...each day counts!

My kitties!

I realized, I blog about the boys alot, and not so much about the other important creatures in my life. My 2 kitties..Cheeto and Garfield. Pseudoidentical cats! They were twins at birth, and now one is thin and active, the other, you guessed it...fat and lazy. I didn't really want them at first to be honest. Czar was the dog, and that's all I thought I wanted, and boy ...he was ENOUGH! But nearly 3 years ago we rescued these 2 from the Humane Society...they were on their last few days before .....you know what, and Ian spotted them at Petsmart. It took us 2 days, and a very long story later, they both came home with us. First off, they are not your "usual aloof cats". These boys, don't spray (thank goodness) don't scratch, only bite Gavin (because he continues to hold them down by their necks) and they run to me when I get off work! They play in kiddie pools, fountains, and have been known to end up in the bathtub. All the while with good attitudes, and loving eyes for the boys. They have been drug around since they were 6 weeks old by these 2, and they keep coming back for more. On a side note, when I had allergy testing done years ago, I tested allergic to cats...so I always just stayed away. Now with lots of linen cleaning, hard wood floors, and tolerance....I love them!

Auntie time!

I get to celebrate...both my girls...Heather and my dearest friend Shannon...are past the 12 week mark! I can't wait to be an Auntie again. I just love that job! I have waited for this time for so long, and now I just can't wait till this fall. It is going to be so much fun. I am full qualified to babysit...so girls...bring on the little ones....you do the dirty work, and I am going to be their favorite Aunt! Just teasing. Seriously, I am blessed to have you in my life, and getting to share in this joy with you...and your first little one Shan, I simply can't wait!

Stitches....or should I say stitch?

Well, being an ER nurse, I knew our day would come, and to speak frankly...I am surprised it took us this long! We've had our bought of issues: croup, tonsils and adenoids out, food allergies, milk allergies, eczema, fever and petechiae (bad rash-admitted for ruling out meningitis 2 year ago) nursemaids elbow x 2 (dislocated elbow...common in toddlers...Gavin had it twice...and guess who had to relocate it both time!!!AGH!) but we have avoided stitches until today! Gavin was at speech therapy when he hit his lip on a counter top, and cut it open. I had my doubts about what to do, but it was deep...and so we headed to see my pal Meta (DR) and she looked quickly, and decided to stitch Gavin up...It was surreal. He got a bit of topical numbing cream, which he let me hold on his face with a qtip, and then she washed and gave him a stitch! He closed his eyes, and held so still. I was so impressed. Gavin is known to be a bit of an overreactor, and like the line in one of my favorite movies (Father of the Bride) he comes from a "long line of overreactors" so he can't really help it!:) He was so amazing, and so proud he was of himself...although Ian is another story. He was text messaging Kevin (yes...my 6 year old texts..arg...) and taking picture and sending them to people, and calling almost everyone on my phone...and insisting that he was not there and no NANA " I did NOT push Gavin". It was one wild and crazy day, but he will have very little scar-and when I spoke to my parents about it, I too was 4 when I got stitches also in my lip. My story is a bit more exciting: My baby brother Benny bit me! It was a snowy night, so my Dad had to chain up to take us to the doctor's office where Dr. Corti our family doctor (yeah...he came in...boy was that medical care!) stitched my lip. I still remembered it...and I was still, just like Gavin!

Thoughts...

Well, it has been a busy week, like most, but I have good news...it's Friday! Friday for me doesn't have the same meaning as for others...in fact it usually means MORE work for me! Ian has been counting down for T-ball practice for 2 weeks, and he finally started tonight! He was thrilled, and promised to "try" his best to hit 101 homeruns! It's really cute. Numbers are VERY important to Ian. Gavin FINALLY learned to write his name this week...HOORAY! Kevin completed his first school assignment...2 weeks early! My overachieving husband impresses me! He also was up since 3 am today, and still came home and did homework....wow, dedication like that...I don't have!:) I am preparing for tomorrow at work...we are nearly at crisis point in the metro area....we don't have enough beds for sick adults...which really clogs the ED and makes patients less than happy to be there. And...I have kept my closet organized, which for me, one week on the right track. I am still following my workout, and I can see some muscle definition which helps me continue, and I am working on a few projects for work and they are coming along nicely...PLUS my NEW curtains from pottery barn came today...and I just can't WAIT to put them up!!! Overall...busy but fun! I did hear today that women that lead stressful lives live longer (oppisote is true for men)-that's REALLY good news for me!!!!! Have a fantastic weekend-and someone....please ski for me!!! The beautiful snow, it's making me crazy I'm not up there!!!!!!!

Getting Organized....okay trying...

So today, after estimates, measurements, phone calls, emails, and LOTS of looking...we bought a closet organizing system at The Container Store. This is one of my favorite stores, seriously. But if you walked into my home...you'd probably NEVER know it. I admire organization. I strive for it. You are either born with it ...or not. My Mom is the Queen of Organization. Growing up with her....was so unnatural for me. My Brother Benny....takes the cake for the men in my life for organization...although Kevin and his Dad are closely behind! Ben used to lay his "getting ready stuff" toothbrush, comb, toothpaste, deodrant, razor, gel, etc..on a hand towel folded in half next to the sink before he went to bed every night. He certainly has my Mom's organization gene....as I am going to call it! I do not. I try, tried, and will continue to try to pull my act together...I keep thinking .....if I just had the right tool....I would be completely organized! Well....I have yet to find it! The gene is not mine to claim...but maybe with my closet organizer...I will make some giant leaps forward. Maybe? I'll take some pictures when it get's in...Kevin is putting it up right now! I can't wait to see it. It cost a pretty penny....but if it's "the tool" that get's me put together after all these years...it's worth it! As I've seen from others, if you don't have the genes, you can still "buy" some of the attributes!!! Ahhhh, organization here I come!!!!

A Family Day...

This weekend is "our family weekend." As most of you know, Kevin and I work oppisote days in order to keep our children out of daycare. It has been rough, we both have a career we are passionate for....and to be honest...me escaping to work twice a week has allowed me to be a better mother. This means Kevin and I do not see each other very much...he too is very involved with his career, school, his teaching, committees, etc. We conflict with our schedules twice a month which means that the boys go to a sitters, and then we all have 2 days off together!! We make a conscious effort to do something fun together...we attempted to find a place through Trendwest to stay the weekend at the beach...it did not work out! The boys were sad...but we ended up taking them swimming, and then the see "Enchanted" at the Kennedy School (one of our favorite stops these days) for cheese pizza and a comfy couch to watch a movie in! We had a blast! The boys are exhausted, but it was such a fun day!!! Though we wish we could do this everyday, I hope we have enough of these for them to have good memories of our fun "family days" together.

Rest..

In these mostly cloudy days, I find my self requiring more rest. Maybe because I am just so sleep deprived that when the sun isn't out, I can't find the motivation, and maybe because...the weather just pulls me back under the blankets! Either way, I enjoyed a day of rest today. Much overdue....

Acceptance...

Never have I blogged twice in one day, but Ian has had alot of fears in his life. Kevin and I have tried to help him by explaining things to him, giving him protection tokens, anything we could think of to help him. But, he is so smart! Tonight, it started with him asking me to say a special prayer that I used to say to him when he was little..."now I lay me down to sleep...." It is the same prayer my Dad used to say to Ben and I when we were young. It then turned to him asking me many questions about "baby Jesus". He always refers to him this way-which makes me laugh inside because I think of the movie "The Ballad of Ricky Bobby" with the prayers to "baby Jesus." He thinks it is easiest to understand in that context...and I say, whatever works! Anyway, he asked if Jesus could keep away the monsters and become his friend! I said "YES!!" So tonight my son, asked Christ (aka baby Jesus) to come into his heart! It is so amazing. He said that he "promised to serve him, and be a good boy to his Mom and Dad." I am so excited for my little Christian tonight!!!:)AMAZING!

Hating Mondays....

I actually look forward to Mondays...I never work, and it's a consistent day I get to the gym...but, Ian has decided he HATES Mondays. He actually went through our calendar today and put an X on everyone. He said "Mondays mean school. I just want to stay home." I had to laugh, and we had a conversation about the fact that even if he doesn't love Mondays...they are NEVER going away. And as for school..."you have between 13-17 more years of it" so probably best to make the most of it! He was less than excited about that. "I'm only six Mom! That's forever!" Best of luck on your Monday!

Please join me on Blue Fridays...

Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing Blue every Friday.
The reason? Americans who support
Our troops used to be called the 'silent majority'
We Are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers.
We Are not organized, boisterous or overbearing.
Many Americans, like you, me and all our friends,
Simply want to recognize that the vast majority of America supports our troops.
Our idea of showing
Solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and
Respect starts this Friday -- and continues each and
Every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a
Deafening message that ...
Every red-blooded American
Who supports our men and women afar, will wear Something blue.
By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the United States on every
Friday a sea of blue much like a
Homecoming football game in the bleachers. If every
One of us who loves this country will share this with
Acquaintances, coworkers, friends, and family, it will
Not be long before the USA is covered in BLUE and it Will let our troops know the once 'silent' majority is
On their side more than ever, certainly more than the Media lets on.
The first thing a soldier says when asked
'What can We do to make things better for you?' is ..'We need Your support and your prayers.' Let's get the word out
And lead with class and dignity, by example, and wear
Something blue every Friday

Whew!

Last night I had one of my recurrent dreams since childhood. It involves loosing my teeth. This time, I continued to try put the teeth back in the holes in my gums. Problem was...they just kept slipping out. It has been a few months since I had a dream about my teeth. Usually when I am stressed, or overtired, I have one. I hate them! I wake up anxious and irritated...it's wierd. And I've been having them as long as I can remember...A friend and I joke at work about them...she too has been having them since childhood, so we laugh and make fun of one another.

Anyway, I went to the dentist today....and I did great! No cavities!!!:) I love to hear that!!!

Pray....

Please continue to pray, for our friends Travis & Debbie and their 2 boys Nikolas and Corey. The caring bridge website at the end of my blog is a link to Corey's site. Having cancer, beating cancer, and then relapsing before your third birthday takes it's toll on ALL members of the family. He is going through an extensive regimen right now of chemo, and if all of you could put them in your daily thoughts and prayers, I know they'd appreciate it. Kevin and I have decided to put CCA (children's cancer association) at the top of our yearly giving this year. Having healthy kids, and realizing how lucky you are.....has impacted us. With our friends Travis & Debbie, and Jason & Ali (Kevin's friend from growing up-close to Jeff and Marilyn) both having kids dealing with Wilm's tumor...and both now reoccuring...please kiss your little ones, and think about giving money to children's cancer or becoming a volunteer. Thanks!

Run, Run, Run.....

After heading to Thai food at a local place, which had NO line, good food, and was quite inexpensive...we decided to go looking for running shoes for both of us. I've heard that athletic shoes last (the inner cushion) at most 6 months with daily activity. I spend alot of time at the gym, and as a reward, I got these!! I swear they were made for me! They feel awesome, and are my color! Anyway, whatever it takes to inspire me! Kevin also got new shoes, and was able to get New Balance in a wide fit, which he was thrilled about as well. Anway, not super romantic, but practical....and that is WHAT we are ALL about!!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Hope all my sweeties have a fantastic day with their sweeties! I am looking forward to having dinner with Kevin, and then who knows what...everywhere is packed...so I bet we end up at either GI Joes, or Target! Ha! We certainly aren't "romantic" but hey, when you can shop and eat without the boys...one must JUMP at the opportunity!!!

Working out...

Well, the obsession continues. I do love the gym, but boy, do I have a compulsive side! I have avoided speaking about it on my blog...because that means your going to watch me! AGH! Anyway, I've really upped the mark this time, because Mexico is coming soon!!!! I have many cute swimsuits (my friend Candy has a friend who designs swimsuits!) waiting for me, and for the second time in my life, I'd like to put them on and not cringe. I have to increase my speed, incline, weight and repetition number daily. It's so wierd. I am really a pusher, I guess. It is good for this in my life, but my "pushing" is certainly not my best quality in other parts of my life. I am running, doing alot of running interval training, and am running all of the intervals over 5.7 mph, and doing at least 5 over 6.0 mph, and 3 over 6.3 mph....and with my shortys....I am SPRINTING!!! I am lifting more than ever....and the program I am following says I should see results in a month, and I am just starting week 2, so I'll keep you posted! I am not obsessed about the scale number (yet!:) but, I want lots of definition. Anyway, we'll see. Either way, my heart is going to be in great shape, and all my numbers (cholesterol, and BP) are looking very good...so I'm hoping to be around for ALONG time.

Happy (belated) Birthday Colin!

Happy Birthday Colin! Today, we are celebrating Colin's 17th Birthday...I love this picture of the of us. I remember the day that we found out that you were entering our lives. I was nearly 15, and Ben was nearing 13. It was quite a shock for us...but once you came...we loved you instantly. I can never imagine my life without you! I have tried from the very beginning to be an instrumental part of your life, even when I lived in Virginia and Maryland...I tried to let you know how much I loved you and missed you. I treasure all of the pictures you have drawn for me and Christmas ornaments you made for me (yes..I still have them!:)) You are such a passionate, sensitive young man with so many gifts to give the world. I want you to know that with all of your struggles now and in the future...I am ALWAYS going to be here for you! People find it interesting that I have a brother that is nearly 16 years younger than myself, but I brag about us! We have a different relationship! Ben and I grew up together, and we have gotten to be a part of you growing up. I love you like a mother sometimes ( I know you don't appreciate that!) and like a sister, and like a friend other times. I just can't help it! I see similarities in our personalities, and I feel like I can relate to you in ways that I can't to others. The boys and Kevin adore you...after all you are so much "cooler" than we are! And I like that...I know that as they grow, they will come to you for advice, and I so trust you Col! I am looking forward to your party today...to celebrate you! Though I can hardly believe you are 17! That makes me...OLD! I love you, and I am so glad that "you picked us". Colin used to tell us when he was little that he knew Ben and I from Heaven, and that he told God and me, that he was going to let me be first, and that he would come last. It was amazing the things that came out of his little mouth! He doesn't remember now...but we used to ask him all about it! I am glad you graciously let me come first, you are full of grace Colin! Thank you for being my little brother!

Thankfulness....

I had a terrible night at work, and at 1:30am, I am unable to sleep. I have a very difficult time processing what I see sometimes. And then I come home, and see my boys sleeping. They are so precious, loving, and forgiving. I just don't understand this world. Just when I was about to "lose it" I picked up the phone to give, and feel love from my family. Kevin answered and knew just what I needed and why. He told me he loved me, and passed the phone to the boys. I then told them "I love you more than you know" with tears in my eyes... and they both said "we know MOM!" and that was it. I could pull myself together and take care of the other 10 kids in the waiting room. Kevin is great...I am so lucky to have him. And someday when the boys are older...I will tell them why on some nights Mommy calls...just to love on you...because someone else is hurt in a way Mommy cannot comprehend. .....and she needs you right then. I am so blessed to have my children. I am not a perfect mother, but I so adore these two. They are my sunshine in such a dark world. And Kevin....he is my rock...whom I can lean so heavily on these nights. Thank you my dear family, for loving me......

CONGRATULATIONS BEN & HEATHER!

Though Heather gets to officially post her pregnancy news on her site....I can't help but blog about it on mine!! I am so thrilled to have another member join our family! Bossy is going to be such a great big brother! And Ian and Gav can't wait to add another member to their "group." I am so lucky to have Heather as a sister-in-law...and my love for my brother is obvious. Someone once told me..."the longest relationship you'll ever have, is with your sibling...." I never really thought about it that way! And now Bossy gets to have that special relationship with someone. Mom and I were at Babies R us shopping for my friend Traci, and there were 2 onesies....both said "my Aunt loves me." One was blue with a green frog, the other pink with butterflies....either way....I can't wait!!!!! I hope your tummy settles down...and you can get some rest, Heather. I am here for you..and praying for you guys!

Movin Up!

My little gymnast is moving on up! He is now out of co-ed classes (away from the "baby girls") and into a Beginning Boys class. He started last night, and had so much fun in his new class. He will miss his favorite coach Sam, but he really likes Allen his new coach! He is silly just like Sam, and is already determined for Ian to "keep his legs straight!" He says his favorite "is jumping" and he was jumping, and rolling, and doing handstands on the wall last night! He's in a class with ages 6-12, and is holding his own...but has new things to learn as well! Good Luck Ian!!!

And....

We got some...(in response to my blog yesterday!) Not alot, but enough to cover the street and the grass...and I hear rumors of more? Well, I'll take what I can get. The boys have the day off, and slept in until 10am!? Maybe they will have a good week since they got SO much sleep!!

Snow....please?...

I love the snow, it's one of the things Kevin and I have in common. I remember as a little girl sitting with my brother Ben on our front room furniture watching out the BIG picture windows we had looking over the city of Portland. We were waiting, hoping, and wanting those big snowflakes everytime there was any hint. We were afterall ontop of Mt. Scott, 75o ft elevation and we saw snow when most didn't. I loved it...and still love it. I simply can't get enough of it. As a kid the hope of a snowday, or atleast "snow routes" was partially why I loved it then. My Mom would not allow us to go on snow routes because we had to walk all the way to Idelman Road, and the bus hardly ever made it up that high, and then it had to turn around with all of us in it. She didn't think it was safe, and it truly wasn't!:) Now, as an adult I have a job that never celebrates "snow days" we are open EVERY day....but I still want the snow to come!!! I loved living in Maryland...we had snow feet deep on the ground for months!!!! It was awesome, a little scary on my drive to work (I had a 45 min. commute on a good day on I-70, but with all the semi trucks crawling, I often got off work at 7 am, and didn't get home until 10am, and then slept until 2pm, got ready and headed back at 4:30pm for the next night. My car even got trapped when they plowed the snow at work for over a week, and Kevin had to come and rescue me!! He was less than thrilled. But if you don't grow up with the stuff, you just have to learn as you go! Right!? Anyway, Kevin and I do plan to move in a few years further into Hockinson, and now we both decided....higher elevation is a MUST for us!!! Every hint of snow, makes us wish we weren't at the 300ft level, but above the 500ft mark!!! Call me crazy...but I can't get enough of the white stuff! I love the sun, and the snow, anything inbetween....just isn't good enough!!!
Let's hope for some snow tonight!!!!!!!

Ian's Party

Ian's 6th Birthday Party: "I love Glowing Golf!" He also came home with a little girl's phone number from school today, ofcourse Kevin's not here....do I let him call, or not. I asked him what he was going to say, he said: "Hello, ofcourse!" WOW, is he growing up or what?

Lego Store, Here Comes Gavin!!!

Gavin and I had an awesome morning together! It helps that I got off work at 11:30pm last night instead of my usual 2:30am. I feel so energized! After Ian and Kevin headed up to Mt. Hood, Gavin and I watched a bit of Empire Strikes Back, and then headed for Washington Square. He loved the little store! He had his heart set on an AT-AT Walker, but settled for the new Indiana Jones sets. Anyone who has known Kevin for any amount of time, knows a bit of his mania for Indy. He knows all the movies, and even sported the name "Willamette Willy" for part of his life! Gavin knew about his Dad's love for this movie and chose them over his obsession, which is Star Wars. We did find an authentic Star Wars t-shirt at the Gap, and bought it, so he again was thrilled! He had so much fun, and was such a pleasure to enjoy him all by myself. I realized, I don't do this enough, and Ian is so strong, Gavin just saunters through behind him with very little disagreement. He is my easy-going, very energetic, and imaginative child. He is always somebody else. This morning he was R2D2 (his favorite!) and was beeping all through the mall, then he quickly became...Darth Vader, and then a RED R2D2. I'm never sure who I am picking up from preschool each day! He's humming the theme from Indiana Jones right now while he's building....dun-da-dun-da, dun-da-da, dun-da-dun-da, dun-da-da-da-da! I love my little R2!!!!

We Survived!

Today we had Ian's birthday party with 16 of his friends from his class at the Glow Golf at the mall. Basically, the kids ran around with golf clubs and balls hitting it all around. It was pretty funny, and very cute. Ian had such a good time, he won a free game, and begged us to come back tomorrow! He also got inundated with more gifts....I should have known that was coming. It's overwhelming to have a birthday right after Christmas! We all did well with very little stress, and I got to meet Ian's friends, their parents, and even set up a t-ball team! Wow! Off to work for tomorrow, and then Gavin and I are going to the Lego store on Sunday at Washington Square. Ian and Kevin are going skiing....I can't even tell Gavin yet, or he'll drive me and the sitter tomorrow nuts begging us to take him there! I'll get some pictures, it will be his first time there....and hopefully he doesn't send me to the poor house!

Milestones....

Most people celebrate many milestones in their lives, their accomplishments with family, friends and loved ones. For me yesterday was a bizarre milestone for me emotionally. Because of the legal system, I can't say much except nearly 1 year ago I lost a young patient that forever changed me as a person, and as a nurse. For those first few days, I could hardly sleep or eat. I'm sure most families never realize what their nurse deals with when she connects with them. And then has to process either the severity of their illness, diagnosis, prognosis or death. Someone once asked me, "why do you want to work somewhere where people are having the worst day of their life?" I just do, was my answer....because we save some! That's what I think I count. But ofcourse, I do remember the families. I do not connect to all families, or them to me, but because of God and the strength he gives me...I can move on. Sometimes easier than other. Many people think that only cold, out of touch people could be nurses, and I don't fit the usual "hardened" ER nurse role. But, I promised nearly 9 years ago, that I would NEVER let a patient die alone. I don't remember ALL their names, but I see their faces in my dreams. Would I trade my job for fame, fortune, or an easy life.?......never. God gave me tender loving hands with which I AM here to help others with, and he gave me wisdom to learn thing about the human body and spirit I never thought possible. Dying scares me, but when I really think about it.....there are so many beautiful angels waiting for me....it's got to be a awesome place.....

Back to School....

With many hours of contemplation, explanation, and research, my husband has decided to go back to school to get his Bachelor's degree in Fire Administration. Six years ago when he became a Professional Firefighter, we thought that's where his dream ended. As long as I have known Kevin, now over 15 years, his love for firefighting was very clear to me. He never wavered taking the easy path (working for the secret service, staying in the Navy, became a police officer), he just kept pushing for what he wanted. Now he's finished his prerequisites, and is applying to Western Oregon to complete his degree. This will give him ALL the advantages in his career-fire investigation, prevention, and education, but most importantly the degree he has longed for, for so long. Please pray for us, this will be difficult, but he feels led here.

Happy Birthday My Son!

Here's my beautiful son this summer at Aunt Shannon and Uncle Kyle's houseboat, just chillin'! I can't believe he's six today. It seems like just yesterday, January 11, 2002 at 4:23pm! WoW! How he's grown. From a cuddly, well sleeping baby, to an active toddler, now to a kindergartener, who's reading, and writing....I am so proud of you Ian. You are so incredibly passionate, compassionate, and loving. When you hold my cheeks to kiss me, or put your hand in mine...I feel your love. You are such an amazing little boy, with so many talents...both discovered and undiscovered. I am so glad that God chose ME to be your Mommy.

Christmas Morning

Our house Christmas morning! This year the "big gifts" were Santa brought a "humungous" fire truck for Ian, and Gavin got a "yellow" camera. Gavin's big gift from us with this AT-AT walker. It was the big hit!

The Others...

These are the other two, more mischievious halves of brothers. Gavin and Kyle. They also sat on the couch waiting to open presents! They are both 4 and 10 weeks apart. Lots of fun...these TWO!

Cousins!

This is such a cute picture of Jared (7) and Ian that I had to post it. I'll put up Kyle and Gavin's later. You always want your children to have what you didn't, and somethings are out of your control. My closest cousin died when I was 15, and she had a rare genetic disorder. She didn't speak or move much by the time she was 6, I was 8. Then Carly came along when I was 7, and we have had alot of fun....but me as the babysitter! Ian and Gavin are blessed with 3 cousins, all boys within 1 1/2 years of their own age! The are growing up really close to one another. We see Jared and Kyle about 3 times a month, at spaghetti nite and watching how close all the boys are is SO cool! What's funny about the picture is they were sitting like this waiting to open presents because Grandma and Grandpa told them they need to sit and wait! What good little boys we have!!!!!

Santa Mugs!

Marilyn and I got Santa mugs this year! This might seem confusing for some of you, but for over 10 years, Marilyn and I have been a part of this family and every year we adoringly look onto the mantel at Christmas time and EVERYONE has a mug except us! This year, Mar spoke up...and I backed her up, and asked "when do we get a mug?" WELL....we got them! They have our names on it like all the boys. It's a big joke...but hey...we've both birthed 2 Wilson boys each, and we earned it!!!!! LOL!!!

Christmas Break!

Yes, it's officically over for our boys...they headed back to school yesterday, but I am going to show in the next few days what we did. We had a great break, and did some really fun family things that I'd like to share...plus-I'm off the next 3 days! So, we went skiing at Timberline 1 day with 2 other attempts, but because of the snow storms-we are waiting to go again this Saturday. Many parents start their children in the sport of THEIR choice as early as possible, but we have gotten many strange looks and replies for ours. Ian started skiing before he was 3. This is his 3rd season. He has all his own gear, and is doing AWESOME. Although I do think I will regret the decision to have him do gymnastics too! Skiing and gymnastics are a dangerous combination. Gavin got his skis this year, and began skiing at 3 as well. They will be blowing past me in about 2 years! I am not a good skiier, I am not risky, I like to go straight down the mountain...no bumps, no turns, and lots of time to stop! You can guess my other half, is very good, does jumps, skis backwards, and likes to go FAST! Enjoy! Ian is in blue, and Gav in yellow!