The Carter Family

New Year's Eve

2012-01-01T21:13:00.000-08:00

We kept with tradition and had a nice, quiet New Year's Eve at home. Sometimes I wonder if we'll ever go out on New Year's now that we have a kid....
We enjoyed some fancy microwavable chocolate cakes...
and some sparkling cider.

Happy New Year!!!!!

Fab 40's Lights

2011-12-13T19:10:00.000-08:00

For FHE we decided it would be fun to go check out the lights in the fabulous 40's neighborhood. It is huge houses and beautiful lights. Preston was all bundled up with his polar bear hat and gloves.

One house was especially decked out with tons of cartoons and Disney characters. Preston loved it and wished he could go check everything out a lot closer.

We had such a great time and Preston learned about Santa when we saw quite a few Santas in peoples yards. Now he asks to see Santa all the time but we told him he had to go ni-night and that seems to make sense to Preston.

Christmas Decorations

2011-12-02T08:06:00.000-08:00

We absolutely love decorating for the holidays and we don't waste any time in doing so. The Monday after Thanksgiving we got our tree and begun decorating. The finished product is so festive and makes me happy!

Too bad this is what our tree looks like now because of our sweet toddler :)
Merry Christmas!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-08T22:18:00.000-08:00

I think I made history this year by carving THREE pumpkins! One night I carved my ghost pumpkin and Preston's Elmo pumpkin and then the next night I carved a witch stirring her brew for Landon. Sad I didn't get a picture of it...
They turned out great if I do say so myself. And Aaron's looks awesome too.
Preston loved his Elmo pumpkin and keeps asking about it even now.
Wes and Lani held their annual Halloween party and we had a great time. Here is the whole family (we missed you Hillary!).
The Firefighter, his dalmation and the fire, hippie Grandma and Grandpa, and Princess Leia, Darth Vader, Yoda and Han Solo.
My sweet boy. We couldn't get a smile out of him all night!
Us
Mama and Preston
Preston and Dad. Love how happy Aaron looks.
Aaron and I
Preston loves trucks!

We put Preston and Blayke in the double strolling to take them trick-or-treating but it didn't last long. Preston loved walking house to house.
Preston's First House!

Out on the streets

Love this shot of Jim and Dee in their hippie outfits walking with the grandkids

We had such a great time taking Preston trick-or-treating for the first time. He was so happy and just thought it was the coolest thing. My favorite thing was when we were between houses and Aaron said, with such joy, "This is even funner than I thought it would be!" We really had such a great time.
Happy Halloween!

20 Months

2011-11-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

Preston is growing so fast and is such a little boy. He is cracking me up with all the talking he does and he has such a personality.
He has learned so many new words over the last 2 months. He now says:
"fire" "chair" "pumpkin" "vacuum" "moon" "star" "oval" "circle" ""sip" "pouch" "couch" "fishies" "light" "snack" "kiss" "ok" "more" "please" "oh gosh" "cracker" "soccer" "football" "basketball" "boat" "airplane" "truck" "fire truck" "motorcycle" "car" "balloon" "cheese"-in reference to the food and when taking a picture, "apple" "oh ya" "lock" "sky" "sock" "hat" "wet" "color" "chair" and I'm sure there are more. He will mimick a lot of what we say as well. He also knows the noises that many animals make and my favorite is when I ask, "what does Preston say?" and he yells "Mama!!" He is just so smart!
At his latest doctor's appointment he was 28lbs and 34 1/2 inches tall. That puts him just about the 50th percentile for weight and 75th percentile for height.
This video pretty much sums up my life. He wants to do everything himself even though sometimes he can't. He asks for my help and then when I go to help him, he says "no". I'm beginning to understand a little more about the terrible twos.
I know this video is a little long but it's just too dang cute.

Preston's latest obsession is football. He loves watching football with Aaron and has even asked to watch football by himself. I recently bought him a football at Target and he asks for it all the time.
He has a great arm too!

We love him so much and he is the joy of our lives.

Preston Cuteness aka More Pics from Aaron's Phone

2011-10-25T20:49:00.000-07:00

October 20, 2011
On a drive with Daddy

Trying to get a smile....

There it is!

October 22, 2011
Halloween Preview...

We went to the mall and Preston really wanted to lay on this truck bed in Pottery Barn Kids. He looks ready to tuck in for the night!

Just hanging with daddy

Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

Our little family about to embark on the HUGE 45 acre corn maze
Preston got to ride. Peek a boo Anna!
Dad, Me, Preston trying to reach up and Aaron
Brett and Anna on the bridge
Papa found a caterpillar!
Preston, Aaron, Alyssa and Kayden amidst the corn. Kayden loved using his map to lead the way.
Dad and Preston taking a break
Love my boys
Preston, Aaron, Dad and Mom
"Cheese"
Aunt Alyssa giving Preston a ride
Alyssa walking Preston through the corn
Pumpkins!
Just looking adorable
"This is heavy!"
He couldn't get it off the ground.
Family :)
Love that face!
Preston on the pumpkins

Papa couldn't wait to do the Pumpkin Launcher

Aaron put a dent in the car!
And Grammy shot about 10 feet above the hay stack!
After we went to dinner at Celia's and Preston was such a good boy and such an entertainer. Here he was yelling at me but look at all those teeth!
We always love the fall activities, even when it's in the upper 80's!!

My 29th Birthday

2011-10-12T23:00:00.000-07:00

I had a great birthday celebrating with the Carter Family 2 days before my birthday (why didn't we take pics with everyone?!) and then with Aaron by going out to dinner on my birthday.
Preston loved helping me blow out the candles

Opening Presents-Preston loved helping with this too

Landon couldn't resist getting in on the tissue paper action...

Thanks for the shirt and beautiful bracelet Jim and Dee! Aaron's present to me was 2 different bouquets of flowers and a mini shopping spree at DownEast Basics. SOO happy it is back open in the Galleria Mall.
Wes and Lani babysat Preston on my birthday so we could go out to dinner.
Out to dinner at Zinfandel Grill, about to enjoy my free chocolate lava cake :)

Thanks for a great birthday everyone!!

Random Shots from Aaron's Phone

2011-10-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

September 17, 2011
My Boys-Preston just woke up :)
Preston was so good during Elasiva's Baptism. He was happy to just read his book.

October 8, 2011

Daddy and Preston watching morning cartoons

Later that day Daddy took Preston for a walk. This is the "Dad, why are you stopping to take a picture. Let's go!" look

On the Fire Truck

Preston hasn't really been a big fan of the swings until recently. Now we can't get him off!

Later that day we went up to Roseville for some shopping and dinner at Red Robin. Preston had to do the Carousel and didn't want to get off when it was over.

October 9th, 2011

Preston and Dad watching the Niners game. Notice Preston's shirt.... :)

I love having Aaron's phone to take great pics wherever we are and whatever we are doing.

Feeding Himself

2011-09-24T21:10:00.000-07:00

I love watching Preston try to feed himself. He now insists almost every time he's eating that he have his own fork or spoon. My favorite is when he has to pick up the food and set it on the spoon cuz he can't scoop it or he lifts it to his mouth and completely dumps all the food out.

Great job son!

Our New Place

2011-09-18T20:31:00.000-07:00

When we moved to Sacramento from Roseville we knew about a small 26-unit apartment complex that had super low rent but it was a wait list and since we were in a hurry to move we chose a great priced 3 bedroom at the Glenbrook Townhomes. We felt strongly that it was the right place for us and greatly enjoyed our almost 5 months there. We had great landlords and just loved the place.

Around the beginning of August we started feeling like we should be saving more money and decided to put our names on the wait list at Scottish Gardens. It would be way cheaper, still in the ward and tons of ward members live here. So, we put our names on the wait list and got a call about a week later that one was available. We really had no intention of moving so soon but we couldn't pass up the opportunity! We also got one of only 2 townhomes in the complex so it wasn't too different from our current place (besides horrific old carpet and old fixtures...but it's worth it!!). We ended up getting our keys September 10th and moving day was September 17th. Things went so smoothly with the move and I was so happy that my mom came up to help me pack and move the kitchen over. That's my least favorite part!

This is our place right up front
Here are some pics of the inside before moving in:

Master Bedroom and Preston :)

Love this shelf in the stairway

Spacious Bathrooms

Preston climbed in his bassinet while we were moving, he has grown so much!!

Dinner in style :) That's how things go when you're moving.
Getting packed and moved in such a short amount of time felt crazy but we are here now and just love it.

Preston's First Day in Nursery

2011-09-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

Preston turned 18 months old last week and is finally old enough to go to Nursery! We were so excited and knew that he would have a great time.
Here I am dropping him off.

Right to the toys! He had no problem with us leaving.
After nursery Aaron went to pick him up but they were doing bubbles and Preston didn't want to leave!
When Aaron brought him to me in Primary he was so excited to see me and said "Hi Mama!" and gave me a big hug. He was in such a great mood!
"Cheese"

Enjoying his after church snack

And later, watching the 49ers game with dad.
What a great day!

Labor Day

2011-09-06T20:10:00.000-07:00

We had such a nice, relaxed Labor Day. Aaron got up with Preston and I got to sleep in (thank you Aaron!!) and once I woke up we lounged around and played with Preston. We tried to put Preston down for a nap but he refused so we decided to take him to Walgreens to get out some energy while mom did some couponing. When we got home he went down for a nap and Aaron and I sold our patio table. It was a bittersweet parting but we couldn't keep it because we don't have a patio at our new place.
RIP Bistro set
When Preston woke up we went over to Wes and Lani's for a Labor Day BBQ with the family and some friends. It was so relaxing and the food was delicious.
Sacramento has a big Old Town Sacramento event on Labor Day so after the BBQ we headed to Old Town.
By the time we got there they were closing up shop but we got to see the horses and Preston got to pet them.

They put dirt over the roads and made Old Town really look authentic.

What era are we in?

Happy Labor Day!

18 Months

2011-09-05T18:15:00.000-07:00

Preston is 18 months old today. I simply cannot believe it. Time is flying by and my baby is now a little boy.

In the aisle of Walgreens
He is such an incredible boy and surprises me each day with how smart he is. For example, today we pulled into our parking spot and he says "Yay! Home!" He knows the word "home"?! He says so many more words and just loves to talk. Some of the new things he says:
"No"-This one is a constant. He sometimes is even saying no when he really means yes.
Another favorite is "hot". Everything is hot.
"Blueberries" "Strawberries" "Tree" "Ball" "Birdie" "Fly" "Outside" "All gone" "All done" "Bite"
He also mimicks everything I say. Tonight I was telling him he was making me mad by throwing his food on the floor and he kept saying "mama mad" over and over again.
He also is getting better at making animal noises although he definitely prefers monkey and lion sounds. He has started doing an elephant noise while he raises his arm to be the trunk.
He absolutely loves to play and always wants to be outside. He will wake up and go to the sliding door and say "outside". He loves to play in the dirt and throw it all over the ground and into his little pool. He also manages to get his toys in every corner of the house in a matter of minutes.
He is so good at throwing the ball and has really good aim and force. I am beginning to really worry about our pictures and TV because he has such a strong throw. We are trying to teach him to only throw balls but he constantly is throwing his toys at us and we have the bruises to show for it.
He brings us so much joy and we can't imagine life without him. That being said, we CAN'T WAIT for him to go to nursery next week!

BYU Football Game

2011-09-03T22:30:00.000-07:00

It was so much fun to have Aaron's friend from work, Kyle, and his wife and daughter, Whitney and Addy, over for one of the first BYU games of the season. Their whole family was sporting BYU attire so we made sure Preston joined in (do Aaron and I really not have any BYU T-shirts!?!).
Preston and Addy loved playing with the toys

Such a doll!
Daddy and Preston watching the game

Preston was running around crazy for most of the game but every once in a while he'd get really into it

"Wow"

"Look at that!"

"Great play!"

We had great food, great company and and enjoyed a great game where BYU won! Go Cougs!

Car Wash

2011-09-02T21:26:00.000-07:00

We took the Honda through the car wash today thinking it wouldn't bother Preston at all since we've taken him through one once before. Unfortunately he didn't think it was fun this time.
"What's happening....?"

"Ummm..."

"I'm not so sure about this."

"Get me out of here!"

"Ok, I guess I'm ok."

Later daddy was trying to distract Preston with his glasses. It worked!

Blanket

2011-08-25T22:29:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure whether I should put this out there for all to read but...
When I was a youth, every year at Girl's Camp we would tie blankets and enter our names in to win one. Even though I spent my fair share of time tying blankets I never won one. It was only due to my sweet level one girls putting my name in for the drawing that I finally got my blanket my last year of Girl's Camp, right before my senior year of high school.
I started sleeping with my blanket because it was so comfortable to keep around my face and over my arms when I would kick my feet out of the covers. Here we are 12 years later and, yes, I still sleep with my blanket! It's not like I have to have it to sleep or anything and when we go on vacation I leave it behind. It's not an emotional comfort, it's a physical comfort!
All that being said, the edges have started to pull apart and so I took on my very first binding project!

It's not so pretty close up but it does the trick and hopefully I'll have many more years of sleeping with my blanket. :)

Brad and Rachel's Wedding

2011-08-24T20:41:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, August 20th my brother Brad and Rachel were married in the Oakland Temple. It was such an incredible day and we are so happy to have Rachel as part of our family. It was also special for Aaron and I because Patriarch Johnson officiated and he officiated our sealing 5 years ago. It was neat to be reminded of the covenants we made and hear some things that were reminiscent of what we were told 5 years ago.
The only picture we got before the reception is this one of Preston after leaving the Temple. He was a tired boy!

Rachel was a BEAUTIFUL bride (I love her dress) and Brad was glowing all day. We are so happy for them.
First dance
Father Daughter/Mother Son Dance
Such a sweet picture of Brad hugging my mom after their dance. She is so tiny next to him.
While I was over taking pictures Aaron, Jim, Dee and Hillary were at our table in the corner
Us :)
Daddy and Me
Cutting the cake
Smashing the cake
Rachel poses for the cameraThe back of Rachel's beautiful dress
About to throw the Bouquet
The toss-I love the anticipation from all the girls in the background!
The Garter
Brad shocked us all when he really went for it!
It was so fun having the Carter's with us! Dee, Jim, Hillary, Me and Aaron
Auntie Anna and Preston. Could he be any cuter in his little bow tie? I don't think so. Lyndsey did such a great job making it.
Caitlin is as precious as can be enjoying her cake
Lyndsey, Sandi Scott and I did the flowers for the wedding. Here is one of the table arrangements. They turned out so beautiful and I love the colors!
The getaway car-awesome decorations! My favorite is "Caution: Red-headed babies approaching" LOL
Lyndsey, Jessica and Me
Preston also enjoyed the cake and loves using the fork himself
Mom and Me
Lyndsey, Dee, Preston and Anna-Getting the bubbles going for the couple to come through
Here they are! Loved Rachel's outfit...

Brad hugging my dad goodbye
And they're off!!!My handsome husband
After Brad and Rachel left the music was still on and Preston started dancing. It was adorable to watch him get his groove on.

My boys
Happy Family
I was trying to get a close up shot of Preston with his bow tie but the flash kept making him squint and blink. He's still adorable!

Mom and Preston
Congratulations Brad and Rachel!!!!

Disneyland and California Adventure

2011-08-10T21:41:00.001-07:00

Getting a 4 day pass to Disneyland was the best thing ever! We got to go the first day with just us and Hillary and Tatiana. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa for watching Preston!!!

Hillary, Tatiana, Me and Aaron
The Castle :)
In line for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad-Aaron and I love this ride!
We got SOAKED on the Grizzly River Run and laughed our heads off the whole ride. We were freezing after but it was worth the laughs.

You can't tell but my pants and entire back are soaked.
LOVE Astro Blasters!! And I beat Aaron!

Tower of Terror-I was terrified and so was Aaron even though he looks surprisingly brave in this picture.
It's been a long day-we're exhausted!
The second day was with Preston and Grandma and Grandpa.

In line for Mr Toad's Wild Ride

Preston's first ride. I forgot how creepy this ride actually is! Luckily Preston wasn't even phased. He pretty much had the same expression on every ride-he was just trying to take everything in.
Grandma and Grandpa Carter on It's a Small World
Our Little Family
While Aaron was in line for Dumbo I took Preston on the Carousel. Same face as all the other rides. I couldn't get this kid to crack a smile!

Dumbo!
On the Heimlich's Chew Chew train with Grandma
Mom and Preston on Flik's FlyerTurns out all we really needed to do was go to the parking lot. Preston was entertained going up and down this curb for so long! He really is mastering stepping up and down and not having to get down and crawl. It actually is turning out to be dangerous because sometimes he thinks he can step down huge steps and he can't yet!

Preston loved this slide in Goofy's yard in Toon Town. He was so good at doing it all by himself.

Preston with Tatiana

In California Adventure in front of the Carousel
The Castle at night
The last 2 days we went with the Coons family who came down for a week of Disneyland. It was perfect that both our families decided to take a vacation to Southern CA during the same time so we could go on both family vacations!
August 3rd, 2011
In line for Heimlich's Chew Chew Train
On the ride with Aunts Alyssa and Anna

On the Ferris wheel in CA Adventure
We celebrated Kayden's birthday the day before with a delicious dinner at the Grand Californian Hotel

Happy Birthday Kayden!!
August 4th, 2011
Daddy took Preston on the Flik's Flyers ride and got the same Raisin box as I was in with Preston!
Preston was fascinated with the animals on the Jungle Cruise
Preston and I on Astro Blasters-He LOVED it. And, yes, I helped him out a little bit.
Aaron and I about to go on Splash Mountain
Aaron, Preston, my phantom body, Anna, Grandma, and Alyssa. Preston was laying his head on my shoulder and raised it just when the picture was taken. We cracked up when we saw this because it makes it look like my head is missing and we are about to go on the Haunted House!

Aaron stayed at the parks with my siblings while I took Preston back to the hotel. I LOVE this picture of Alyssa and Aaron on Splash Mountain right before they came home.

Huntington Beach

2011-08-10T21:19:00.000-07:00

We were so lucky to be able to go spend a week with the Carter family at a house in Huntington Beach. It was a week of sun, sand, Disneyland, fun with family, some relaxing and great food including Cafe Rio!!! We also went to Hollywood and Santa Monica. We had such a great time and can't wait to go again!

We started our drive after work hoping that Preston might sleep on the way down. That didn't happen but we did have some good moments.
And we're off! Preston's first real road trip

If you've ever driven through Central CA you know how smelly it gets. Preston thought it was hilarious when we'd say "pee-yew"

We loved the beautiful sandy beach and ocean. Preston loved getting in the water.
It was a little cold sometimes-Snuggling up with Momma
Playing in the waves with Dad

Sand is pretty cool too
Sunbathing Beauties-Hillary, Dee, Tatiana and Lani
SiblingsGroup shot-Aaron with Preston, Me, Landon, Hillary, Tatiana and Wes
One night we went to Main St in Huntington Beach and went to eat at a Mexican Restaurant.
The Whole Family-LOVE this picture!
Preston really wanted to close this door while we waited to be seated
Walking down Main St
On Saturday night Lani and the boys went to a Padres game so the rest of us stayed back and made a nice homemade dinner. It was so delicious and nice to relax at home!
None of us had been to Hollywood before so we had to go. I was surprised at how run down and yucky it was. At least I can now say I've been there!
The Walk of Fame (which I had no idea went on forever!)
I was also surprised at how small the hill of the Hollywood sign is. I guess the movies make everything look bigger and better!
Capital Records in the background
My boys :) in Hard Rock Cafe which we didn't eat at
Preston was so happy to see Mickey Mouse since he knew all about him from Disneyland.
I was so happy that Lauren was able to meet up with us and hang out for a few hours. Too bad we didn't take any pics together!!
At the Kodak Theatre
After Hollywood we headed over to Santa Monica
Beautiful sunset at Santa Monica Pier

Preston saw this balloon and immediately ran over to it and was so excited. I asked how much and the lady said "If anyone asks, it was $15" and hands it to me. She gave us a $15 balloon! That lit up and had another balloon inside! Preston was so happy.

At the end of the pier with the lit up carousel

A snapshot of the house we stayed at. It was awesome and had a hot tub in back. Thank you Carter's!!!!

WE CAN'T WAIT

2011-07-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

Aaron here...just found this online and had to post it.

Swim Day

2011-07-06T22:49:00.000-07:00

Preston and I got to go down to Alamo (while Aaron worked, thank you babe!) and had a great time swimming with the family.
Even Turbo swims!
Cute, wet puppy
Mom and Preston
Showing Preston what to do

Summer is the best!

16 Months Old

2011-07-05T21:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is already 16 months old! I haven't done an update in way too long and Preston is learning and growing so quickly. At 16 months:
-Preston is such a happy, loving boy

Here he is playing with his rain boots my cousin Cherie gave him. He LOVES these boots and didn't want to take them off.

He doesn't care if he's missing one!

-He loves to talk. His first word besides "dada" was "uh oh".

-He is so smart and mimics things we say. The first time he started mimicking was on Easter (April 24) and he copied me saying "oh, rain." He has just continued expanding his vocabulary since then and now mimics the alphabet.

-His favorite word is "ya" and he answers ya to almost every question. I am happy that he he answers questions in the affirmative although he has recently begun yelling "no" occasionally. He also will slowly nod his head yes or shake his head no and it is so cute!

-Other words: "uh oh" "oh" "bye bye" "night, night" "dada" "mama" (which he just began saying in the last few weeks when he has been saying dada for ages!) "y" (for Super Why, his favorite show) "show" "shoe" "ball" "up" "out". He has just begun saying "more" but whenever you ask if he wants more he'll say "ya".

Watching Super Why

-He loves his bath and if you say "Want to take a bath?" He says "ya!" and runs to the bottom of the stairs. If you don't come with him he gets fussy because he just wants to take a bath!

-He is really good about going to bed. When you say "do you want to go night, night?" he'll say "ya" and nod his head. Our bedtime ritual is a bath, followed by cleaning out his ears (he likes it and will move his head so I can get the other ear), brushing his teeth while he's still wrapped in his towel (my turn and then his turn) and then he brushes while I put on the diaper and lotion him up. We still wrap his swaddlers around him and lay him in ours arms for a bottle. After the bottle he'll lay on our chest and tuck his arms between us. If you say "can I have a kiss?" he will often lift his head and give a quick kiss and lay his head back down.

-He has climbed out of his crib twice! The first time was on memorial day and then once since. He also climbed out of the pack-n-play at the Carter's a week and a half ago.

-He is dangerous! He is always trying to climb up on the chairs or table and loves to sit and rock on the la-z-boy. He likes to run but just isn't good enough at it yet and he usually ends up falling.

Climbing onto his little table

Evidence on his nose of a recent fall

-He has recently really gotten into books. He will often grab a book and bring it over to Aaron or I, throw it at us and then climb up for us to read to him. He is learning about animal sounds but the only one he really gets is the roar for lion. He has been roaring for a long time but is now associating it with animals. Today he saw a cow on Super Why and moo-ed for the first time.

"Read this!"

-He loves music and music always gets his attention. Aaron taught him to conduct (wave his arm) while we were watching conference in April and so he starts waving to every hymn in church. He loves sitting on his dads lap and playing the piano. He also sings a little bit and will mimic the songs of some of his toys.

-He loves when his dad comes home from work and will run to the sliding door and get so excited. He has the biggest grin on his face and usually as soon as Aaron walks in he'll run to the living room, waiting for Aaron to follow and play with him.

Watching daddy watch a video of him

-He is really independent and doesn't care too much if we leave him. He happily goes to his grandparent's and aunts and uncles and doesn't care if we leave him with a babysitter he doesn't know. We left him overnight for the first time on June 18th and he stayed with my family. They said he did great and didn't seem to miss us at all!

"Here Mom"

"I'll take that!"

-He is an active, joyful boy and the love of our lives. We don't even want to imagine life without him. He has brought us so much joy and continues to amaze us every day.

San Francisco

2011-07-01T21:07:00.001-07:00

Aaron's company threw a huge company party for all of Northern California on Saturday June 18th. We had such a great time and made a day and night of it by staying the night at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel. My family watched Preston for our first night away from him since he was born! Thanks family!
Before the party we walked around Union Square and ate dinner at a little mexican restaurant. Around the corner we found a cupcake shop and had to get some. We went back to the hotel to relax and read before getting ready for the party.
Ready to par-tay

San Francisco City Hall

Waiting in line for the photo booth
We decided to totally live it up and went to a late night movie at the Metronom. We saw Super 8 on the IMAX!

We slept in the next morning and had room service breakfast. It was delicious!

The view from our room on the 16th floor
We had such a great time and can't wait to go back!

Father's Day and 2 New Family Members!

2011-06-21T23:34:00.000-07:00

Brad and Don came home from Utah for the summer and arrived with a special father's day present for Dad...A New Puppy!!
He is a pure bred yellow lab and absolutely adorable. We can tell he's gonna be big because of his huge paws.
We also had another exciting thing happen...Brad and Rachel are ENGAGED!!
We are so happy to have Rachel join our family.
And then on Sunday it was Father's Day. We had such a great day celebrating with Aaron, my father and grandfather. I love celebrating Aaron as a father because he is such a great dad and Preston and I are so grateful for him.
Father's Day Dinner
Aaron about to open his gifts
Matt with Caitlin opening his giftsAnd Papa opening his gifts with the help of Tommy and KaydenLyndsey made the best Father's Day cake!!Besides dinner, cake and gifts, we had a great time on the trampoline and with the puppies!
Preston jumping on the trampoline with dad supervising.
Aaron showing Kayden how to jump, and Preston is a natural!

It's always fun to watch Luke and Preston together. They are quite the handful! I can't believe how much one year old's love stairs!

Grandpa with his 2 oldest grandsons, Tommy and Kayden(making a silly face), and the new puppy, Turbo
He was totally asleep in this position. Don't know how that's comfortable...
Grandpa Peirce also has a new puppy, Sarah, and she came to spend the day with us. She is a golden retriever.
Preston loved playing with the puppies.

It was so fun to watch these 2 together. Turbo really attacked little Sarah but she didn't mind.

Happy Father's Day!!!

River Day

2011-06-14T21:34:00.000-07:00

Grandma Carter came to visit and we went to play in the American River, just down the street. Preston absolutely loved playing in the sand and water.

I could just eat him up...

(Don't look too closely at me, you might get blinded by my whiteness!)
We love living by the river!

Aaron's Birthday

2011-06-13T21:45:00.000-07:00

We couldn't decide how to celebrate Aaron's 27th Birthday. We kept shooting down all our ideas because Aaron wanted to do something different. He ended up coming up with the idea to eat on the Delta King on the Sacramento River. Great food and a perfect setting. We loved it!
Us with a beautiful view of the river

Us, Wes and Lani, Jim and Dee
Beautiful view of the bridge
Brothers in front of the Delta King
The Whole Group
We LOVE cupcakes so I decided to try out Icing on the Cupcake instead of a traditional birthday cake for Aaron. They look pretty but I was disappointed with the taste so in addition to the 12 I got from Icing on the Cupcake, I had to pick up a few more from our favorite, Esther's Cupcakes.

Aaron blowing out his candles
My handsome husband
Preston kept putting his arms behind his head so Aaron copied :)
Some great presents
Happy Birthday Aaron!!!!

Camping at Big Trees

2011-06-12T20:20:00.000-07:00

We have been talking about wanting to go camping for a long time and we FINALLY made it happen! Anna and Alyssa wanted to go to and we decided it would be so fun to go back to Big Trees where we spent so much time as children.
Our Campsite
It is a definite adventure camping with a 15 month old, especially when we ended up with a campsite on an incline. Preston isn't that sturdy on his feet so someone had to be with him at all times, holding on to him so that he wouldn't hurt himself falling. Speaking of falling, the moment we arrived we took him out of the car and he went running down the street and fell on his forehead and nose. Poor buddy!
We brought so much food and we were a little scared about bears but they had these food lockers that we could put everything away in. I'm happy to say we did not see any bears.
Preston and Kayden loved playing with the food locker. And notice Preston's monkey leash? It was our best friend this weekend.
Heading out for the day. I just love this picture and how it captures Aaron speaking so sweetly to Preston.
Family ShotAlyssa was camera happy and took this video when we didn't know she was recording.

Pitiful! No idea what he is crying about but he looks so cute!
Sticks were Preston's best friend and our worst enemy. They really are dangerous! I get it now.
But those sticks really did make Preston happy.
When I was about 7 years old my parents bought some property in Dorrington, CA just 10 minutes up the road from Big Trees. We spent so much time here growing up and I have SO MANY memories here. We sold it in 2001 but I wanted to make sure Aaron saw it.
Our family in front of the cabin

Alyssa, Anna and Kayden at the front door
A picture of the family room through the window, it pretty much looks the same!Beautiful big windows have a great view of the forest
Glad no one was there because we did a lot of trespassing
I remember going to this lot as a kid before the cabin was built and playing in the middle of these 3 trees.
After visiting the cabin we went to the State Park and toured the Big Trees. We brought lunch and had a little picnic.
The HUGE stump that can be used as a stage
I love how Preston is looking up at the super tall trees
Sisters :) and Preston
Preston (luckily) took his nap while we walked
Alyssa and Me
The dogwood trees were in bloom and they were BEAUTIFUL! We couldn't have gone at a better time.

Tree Tunnel
Sisters again :)
Daddy and Preston walking
Checking out the trail, he has a lot to say

He had so much fun playing with these pinecones that someone lined up
After we left the state park we stopped at this overlook. So beautiful.
Preston loved playing in the field

And Alyssa and Anna took in some sun and a nap

Once again the leash to the rescue

Daddy found a caterpillar!"How big is Preston?" "SOOOO big"
We really had such a great time and can't wait to go back when Preston is a little older. It was surprisingly cold for June and Preston wasn't very good about sleeping past 5am so we were all pretty tired but we definitely made some good memories. On the way home we even stopped by this apple stand that we would often stop at to get apple pie or apple cider on our way up to the cabin.
Lunch at KFC before we parted ways.
Can't wait for next time!!!

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

We had such a great Memorial Day weekend full of fun and family, and hardly any sun. Despite the rainy weather we were able to plant flowers and BBQ.
When Jim and Dee came up they brought Preston a water table. He absolutely LOVES it!! Every time we go outside he tries to get out of my arms to play.

I love that we have a big enough patio that Preston has his little corner. We will be spending many summer days out here.

That night I made the Teriyaki Bacon Wrapped Chicken Kabobs from the Our Best Bites cookbook. So good!
And here is the finished product of our back patio.

This blue belly lizard came out after we finished planting. He was so fat!!
Our delicious grilled burgers.
Enjoying the beautiful yard and good food.
Preston enjoyed it too! I love how he crosses his ankles :)
It's days like this that remind how richly blessed we are to have the freedoms that we do in this country. We are grateful to all those who have served and are currently serving to allow us this great privilege.

Reading with Great Grandpa

2011-05-23T23:15:00.000-07:00

Great Grandpa and Grandma came up to Sacramento to see Preston and I and to take us to lunch. It was so great to see them and Preston loved seeing his Great Grandparents. I love how much Great Grandpa loves Preston. They were adorable sitting in the rocking chair reading together.

We are so glad to be making these memories and hope that there will be many more!

Visit with Eliza and Mandy

2011-05-19T22:43:00.000-07:00

Eliza and Preston are just about 2 months apart and Mandy and I have been dying to get them together. It finally happened when Mandy and Eliza accompanied Colin on a business trip to San Francisco. We picked up Mandy and Eliza at the hotel and headed to the Palace of Fine Arts and the Exploratorium.
These 2 loved watching the ducks and chasing them around.

Mandy and Eliza-inside the Exploratorium
They had this cool house where some widows were lit up with lights where others were painted yellow and you had to try to tell the difference.

Mandy and Eliza in the BIG chair
Preston and I
Back at the house, Preston thought it was so fun to look in the windows.
Is it just me or do they look like they could be related?
There was this little girl that wouldn't leave Preston and Eliza alone. Her parents were not at all good at helping her keep boundaries and when they were leaving she kissed Eliza on the lips! It was cute at first when she was playing with them in this room but it got to be overboard very quickly when she wouldn't leave us alone.
When we were shopping in H&M these 2 were playing footsie :)
Mandy and I
We had such a great time and hope it won't be long before we can see each other again!

Peas

2011-05-18T22:22:00.000-07:00

Preston absolutely loves peas and now he's discovered a new game he can play with them. They fit perfectly!

"Do you think this piece of chicken will fit?"

Fairytale Town

2011-05-13T20:33:00.000-07:00

Anna called in the morning and said that Kayden woke up and wanted to go to Fairytale Town. We didn't have anything going on so we said "Come on up!" We were so happy Grammy got to come too.

Cousins on the train
Mommy and Preston in the slide
Look at my sweet boy,
and his beautiful blues.

Grammy on the phone with Uncle Brad, talking about Rachel :)

Playing with Grammy
Relaxing before dinner
Preston had his first lollipop. It was a lifesaver in keeping him quiet.
"This is good Mom!"
We love when our family comes to visit!

Congratulations Jim!

2011-05-09T22:59:00.000-07:00

On May 7th we were able to attend Jim's Graduation with his MASTER'S in Education from University of Pacific. We are so proud of all his hard work and were happy to celebrate with him.
The Graduation Ceremony
Jim and Dee
Jim with his 3 kids
The immediate family
Jim with his Mother, Joanne, and his 2 sisters, Janice and Shirley
The whole group
After we enjoyed dinner at Chili's. Congratulations Jim!!

Jessica's Wedding

2011-05-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

I was beyond excited for my cousin, Jessica's, wedding this last Saturday and it was such a great day. Jessica looked absolutely beautiful and I am so happy for her and Sergio.
The ceremony was at a beautiful Catholic church in Vacaville and then the reception was held in Fairfield at a hotel.
Here we are trying to get a good family shot...to no avail

The gorgeous cake
A picture of the reception with the gorgeous flowers
Anna helping out with Preston, and Alyssa :)
The Newlyweds!! Making the table rounds
Grammy and Papa were watching Tommy, Caitlin and Luke for the week while Matt and Lyndsey were on a cruise. You can tell they had their hands full!
Cousins! I love Jessica so much and am just so happy for her and Sergio.
We didn't get to stay for the whole reception because Preston had been a little sick the day before and we were worried about him. Turns out that that night I came down with the worst flu ever and Aaron got it the next day. I later found out that we gave it to Jessica and she was sick on her honeymoon!!! I feel so horrible and hope she'll forgive us. I just couldn't miss the wedding!

Preston's First (Official) Haircut

2011-04-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

I've trimmed Preston's hair a few times but it came to the point where he really needed his first real haircut. We took him to the cutest kids haircut place in East Sacramento. They had this police car that he could play in while they cut his hair. It only made him happy for a few minutes.
Until the guy started wetting his hair...
And combing it....
And cutting it.
It was really so pitiful. Daddy trying to comfort him.
Some snacks made him happy for a little bit.
It didn't last long.
Mommy holding Preston before the shop owner does some touch ups.
He didn't like her either.

But it turned out great and was much needed!

Easter

2011-04-24T22:52:00.000-07:00

It might be true that parents get more excited about holidays than their kids. I was so happy for Preston to get his first Easter basket!
Checking out the goods
Look at those curls!
My blue-eyed babe

We were happy to celebrate Easter in Alamo this year and it was even better because Grandma and Grandpa Carter came and spent the day with us. What kid gets to have both sets of grandparents around?!
Getting ready for the egg hunt (my parents were watching Matt and Lyndsey's kids while they were on a cruise!)

Lining up youngest to oldest...almost...

Our Little Family

Here's a little video of Preston collecting eggs

Trevor and Jim supervised from above
Pretty sure Tommy collected the most eggs
Aunt Alyssa helping Caitlin
I think Preston needs a haircut :)

It was a wonderful day and we are so grateful for the reason we celebrate, the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We know it is through Him that we will live again.

Surprise 50th for Dee

2011-04-09T12:27:00.000-07:00

Aaron's Aunt Janice had the great idea to throw a surprise 50th for Dee. It made it even more of a surprise because we had it a month after she turned 50.
My parents came over to Manteca for the party
Janice and Aaron
The Birthday Girl!!
Janice and Dee
Preston with Auntie Hilly
Happy Birthday Dee!!

Preston's Birthday-The Company

2011-03-10T20:43:00.000-08:00

Preston really had a ball at his party. He loved looking out the screen door-from the outside in....

and the inside out! Looks like Anna and Alyssa are trying to tell us something. He loved running around all over the place.

And he especially loved playing in the balloons. Peek-a-boo Dad!!!

Mama and Preston
The Proud ParentsWe were so glad so many of our family could come!!!
Grandma Carter and Preston
Grandpa Carter and PrestonGrandma Coons cleaning up Preston (is this really the only pic I got of Preston with Grammy?!)
No pictures of Grandpa Coons but a great video to come as soon as I upload it...
Aunt Hillary and Preston

Preston and Great Grandma Carter
Uncle Matt with Caitlin and Tomasi Aunt Lyndsey and cousin Luke Uncle Trevor and Preston

Sisters and Preston: Anna, Me and Alyssa

Playing outside with Amber, Wes, Anna, Kayden, Landon and Blayke
I don't know what we would have done without Thomas supervising the kid room!

Welcome Home Brad

2011-03-09T19:36:00.000-08:00

On March 9, 2011 Brad returned home from his mission to the Australia Adelaide mission. We didn't get to go to the airport but saw him later that day.
He's home!!

Brad brought back all sorts of goodies from Australia. Here he is playing his didgeree doo that he bought and had painted by one of the aboriginals. He's pretty good!
The kids loved it!
Looking like Crocodile Dundee!
I love this picture!
Brad showed us the perfect coin pouch with no seams. We couldn't figure out how it was made until Brad revealed what it really was. Yes, it's a coin pouch but it's also a male Kangaroo's...you get the idea. I threw it as soon as I knew.
And Preston just enjoying some of Aunt Lyndsey's cookies.
We are so glad you are home, Brad!!!

Preston's Birthday Continued-The Presents!!

2011-03-09T14:58:00.001-08:00

Preston was very excited to open his presents-he didn't want to wait
Preston and Dad
Mom was a little more excited about the presents than Preston once they were opened
All the kids were really into the toys!
Puppy from Grandma Carter
Little People Zoo from Grandma Coons
He LOVES his presents! Thank you everyone!!

Preston's First Birthday-The Cake

2011-03-07T16:07:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, March 5th Preston turned 1!!! We had a family party at Grandpa and Grandma Carter's house to celebrate. I can't believe that our baby is one-this has been the best year of our lives and we were so happy to celebrate our sweet boy.
Preston waiting for his cake
Preston's own cake

He's excited!

Preston was so timid with his cake. He started picking off a little of the frosting but wouldn't dig in.
It looks like Preston really got into the cake but that was just me trying to help him.
Preston feeding mom and dad :)
Getting cleaned up by Grammy
I wanted to take a stab at making a fondant cake for Preston's birthday. It turned out great and was so fun to do (even when I had to stay up til 2:30am to finish it!)

Getting into Mischief

2011-03-04T21:45:00.000-08:00

February 18th, 2011
"What's in here?"
"There's stuff in this drawer?!"
"Leave me alone."
"Wow"
March 4th, 2011
Making a mess

"I'm not doing anything wrong."

Preston is Forward-Facing!

2011-03-04T21:12:00.000-08:00

Preston was getting sick and tired of facing the back of the seat and was so happy when he was finally 1 year old and able to turn around! (ok, so maybe we turned him around a day early...)
Happy boy. He can see!
I love how he always crosses his ankles! He's so precious.

Jelly Belly Factory

2011-02-22T21:08:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to go to the Jelly Belly Factory and I finally got the chance when Lyndsey suggested we go. We met up with Lyndsey, Tommy, Caitlin, Luke and Anna and Kayden for a day full of sugar!
In front of the Jelly Belly Factory

We had to wear these silly hats and Preston surprised me by leaving his on most of the time
Checking out the jelly belly making process
Caitlin and Preston
After the Jelly Belly Factory we headed over to Fenton's in Vacaville. Mmmmmmmm....
Luke and Preston enjoyed ice cream along with the rest of us

Anna and Caitlin

Kayden and Tommy
Outside Fenton's is a little play area with moving cars and Preston had the time of his life!
Preston and Kayden

We can't wait to go back again!
(Thanks for letting me steal some pics, Lyndsey!)

Teeth Brushing

2011-02-20T21:19:00.000-08:00

Preston finally has enough teeth that we need to brush them. Our first brushing was with a little rubber finger brush and he actually didn't mind too much. I'm sure he was thinking, "What is in my mouth?!"
Daddy making sure to get all the teeth.

Our sweet boy. By the way, we love these hoodie towels that Lyndsey made for Preston. They work so well!

Drool-y Boy

2011-02-14T22:29:00.000-08:00

Since Preston is teething it is impossible to keep his shirt dry.
Wrestling with Dad
Preston's hiding place. He loves to go crawl under his bouncer when he is trying to get away from us.

Troop-Dawg

2011-02-13T20:27:00.000-08:00

We never thought the Trooper would last as long as it did but when the day came to say goodbye, I was so sad!! It was such a great car!

I got the Trooper from Matt in 2003 (he had it for 3 years) and I drove it all the way til February 2011. It made it through 2 trips to and from Utah (although we did tow it) and was such a Trooper!! We knew it was probably on it's last leg but didn't realize just how bad it was. Luckily my dad was able to find us a great deal on a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo and we decided to get it, not knowing how much longer the Trooper would last. We went to sell the Trooper but it wouldn't pass smog (for the first time ever!) so we took it to my dad to have him get it to pass smog. He ended up finding out that it had a crack in the head gasket and was literally on it's last leg!
We were able to be approved through the government's vehicle retirement program to turn in the Trooper and get $1000! My dad met us in Fairfield where we said our final goodbye's to the Trooper and got our $1000 check!
And, yes, I did cry.

We are so grateful for my dad who kept the Trooper running all these years, "pimped my ride" for me the summer I got married and who helped us get our new car and successfully retire the Trooper for $1000. We don't know what we'd do without you, Dad!
(I didn't really want to part with my Wild Cherry seat covers but Aaron insisted. Luckily my dad felt the same way and kept them, hopefully to live on in another classic car!)

Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town

2011-02-12T20:48:00.000-08:00

We were so happy to have Anna and Kayden come up and meet us for the day at the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town.
First was the zoo.
These giraffes were so close and so huge!
Anna and Kayden with Mr. Giraffe
Preston checking out the giraffe. This was pretty much his expression the whole day.
We had to check out the Australian Outback since Uncle Brad is really in the Australian Outback!
Kayden is so silly.
Kayden on the croc
Kayden is a kangaroo!
Mama Roo with her Joey (how they got that name for baby kangaroos is beyond me)
Kayden loved the tractor
Mom and Preston
Awesome Chimp
Preston and Mom with the flamingos. I was shocked at how tall some of these guys were!
Fairytale Town-Kayden and Anna
This slide from the barn was super steep. Here are Anna and Kayden at the top...
....and Anna at the bottom after her crash landing. She had no idea how fast she would fly down!
Kayden tackling Anna
My happy boy with his big two front teeth!
Kayden on the crooked mile
Aunt Anna and Preston. He loves his Auntie
Mom and Preston in the teepee
Coming down the Little Old Woman Who Lived in the Shoe slide
Anna and Kayden as the Tinman and Dorothy
We had such a great time and can't wait to go again!

First "real" date since Preston was born

2011-02-11T22:24:00.000-08:00

Since Preston was born Aaron and I have only left him a handful of times and it has always been with family. We decided it was time to go on a "real" date and hire a babysitter. We got Holly Player, one of my old beehives, to watch Preston while we went to eat at Tahoe Joe's. It was kind of a weird experience for me to go pick up the babysitter and realize that I'm getting old! :)
Delicious cheesecake at Tahoe Joe's

We were gone less than 2 hours and talked to Holly once during the date but it was a good start to leaving Preston and a much needed outing for Aaron and I.

Peek-a-boo

2011-02-02T22:34:00.000-08:00

Walking Videos

2011-02-02T21:03:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple videos of Preston walking!
Sorry they are sideways...

Messy Boy

2011-01-31T21:54:00.000-08:00

"I love food!"

Sweet smile
Look at those front teeth!

Beautiful Blues

2011-01-31T21:39:00.000-08:00

These baby blues are irresistible and melt my heart.
And he chews on everything...

The Tree

2011-01-31T16:20:00.000-08:00

I knew keeping Preston away from the tree would be hard, but it was ridiculous! Every time I would turn away he would b-line for the tree. He would get the ornaments, the beads, the pine needles that dropped, the presents. How the tree survived is a mystery to me.
Looking innocent

Eyeing the Tree

Going for it

Caught in the act

When we took the tree down we decided to let him have at it

I'm glad I have 10 months to come up with a protection plan for next year. I'm afraid some of that plan may involve an artificial tree...

Playing on his Dino

2011-01-24T21:30:00.000-08:00

Preston loves his walker/ride on Dinosaur that he got for Christmas.
Hamming it up for the camera

Getting brave...
Be careful Preston!

Walking!!! But you'll have to take my word for it...

2011-01-19T21:59:00.000-08:00

Preston is walking!! But of course he won't perform in these videos. I still had to post them because he is just too adorable. I can't believe how quickly our boy is growing.

Swing

2011-01-19T21:25:00.000-08:00

Don't pretend like you're having fun, Preston!!!

Could he be any less interested in swinging? It looks like he's gonna fall asleep!

Made with Love by Great Grandma Peirce

2011-01-12T20:22:00.000-08:00

Great Grandma Peirce crocheted the most adorable hat, sweater, booties and a blanket for Preston. He looks so adorable, he's just to die for!

Thank you Great Grandma!!

New Year's Eve

2011-01-01T20:28:00.000-08:00

As we get older, our New Year's activities get less and less exciting.
Anna came up to celebrate with us and we watched a movie, almost forgetting to pause for the countdown. We did bake a cake.

This is where each of us actually was when the clock struck 12. Aaron on his La-Z-Boy, Anna on the blow up mattress and me on the couch.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Christmas Day 2010

2010-12-26T21:48:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Morning!!
Santa brought Preston a ride on dinosaur walker!!
He can stand and walk with it! He's a natural!
Preston's stocking items
He's ready to open presents!
What's under here dad?
Dad, Don, Trevor, Alyssa and mom
Aaron and Preston-LOVE my boys!Preston playing with GrammyWe left the Coons early afternoon and headed to the Carter's for Christmas day. Why didn't I take more pictures?!
Preston loves his play table from Grandpa and Grandma Carter!
My BEAUTIFUL boy!
We are so grateful for our Savior and this time of year that we celebrate his birth. Merry Christmas all!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-26T20:31:00.000-08:00

This year we were able to spend Christmas Eve at the Coons' house and enjoy the night with the extended Peirce family. It is always so much fun to see everyone and it was just as crazy as ever!
Preston is ready for dinner
Me and my cousin Jessica.
Christmas Eve to me means being with her :)Our little family
We wanted to get a picture of my grandparents and their 7 kids. It is amazing how difficult/impossible it was for 7 grown kids to sit still for a picture. This is the best one I got, hopefully there is a better one out there!
and this is the craziness of all of us trying to get them to be quiet and smile!
My mom has been hosting Christmas Eve at our house for us and her family my entire life, and beyond. She has 6 siblings and add in all their kids and it is not an easy feat. As a surprise and thank you to her my aunt and cousin got her something she's dreamed of having-her own All-Clad pan set!!!
She was thrilled and very touched.

Preston working on opening his present from the cousin exchange-Thank you Aunt Janet, Erika and Briana!

It's a musical gears and ball toy!! Grandpa is showing Preston how it works.
This toy was so popular! We couldn't keep Tommy and the other older kids away.Preston and Cousin Kayden had matching pj's for Christmas Eve.
Trying to get a shot of them sitting together. Classic.This one turned out a little better...Cute boys!Setting out cookies and carrots for Santa and the reindeer. Preston thought the carrots were for him!
Aaron got to open our present from my parents on Christmas Eve because...it's a video camera!!!
Wahoo!! Thanks Mom and Dad!Preston was all ready for bed and acting ADORABLE!! Merry Christmas Eve!!

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

2010-12-21T20:34:00.001-08:00

...and a Happy New Year!

For those who didn't see the link on my Facebook account, here is the link to view our family's 2010 Christmas card :)

http://www.americangreetings.com/christmas-letter/view/5227984974397?source=agfb

(Sorry, you have to copy+paste - for some reason the link wouldn't work today in blogger...)

Cute and Silly Preston

2010-12-21T17:48:00.000-08:00

Preston is looking adorable in his church outfit and his "Big Guy" outfit from Grandma Carter.
October 31, 2010

November 27, 2010

Preston is constantly making me laugh.
He randomly decided to try to stand on his car seat and was so happy about it. Good thing dad was there to steady him!
December 3, 2010

Preston never likes to sit still with me for very long so I was surprised when one particular morning he sat with me for what seemed like forever. He just wouldn't move and it made me so happy. Finally I picked him up and realized the problem: he couldn't move!
My little mermaid, December 14, 2010

Messy boy!
December 15, 2010

I love this photo! "Hey!"

December 20, 2010

He is so mobile now and just crawls around getting into anything and everything. He's so cute while he does it!
December 20, 2010

Watching TV

2010-12-21T16:12:00.000-08:00

I don't normally put Preston down in front of the TV but this particular day I must have had something I needed to do so I stuck him in his seat and put on something like Dinosaur Train. He LOVED it! He was seriously so into it. Every time I would try to get a picture of him watching he kept looking at me.

I finally got one.

Mesmerized.

A Christmas Tree and Santa

2010-12-17T18:10:00.000-08:00

On the evening of December 3rd we decided to try to go to Wise Buys and get a tree for $9.98 like last year. We were all sick with colds but really wanted a tree! After waiting in line in the rain we found out that all they had were Douglas firs and I insisted on having a noble fir. We decided to go home and try again later. On the way home there was a Christmas tree lot right by The Fountains so we stopped and came home with this beauty.
Preston's first Christmas tree lot

Our Tree

I was having a hard time deciding whether or not it was important for Preston to have his picture with Santa on his first Christmas. I finally decided to just take him to have his picture done after we did his portraits on December 16th. I was even happier to find out I could take my own photos and didn't have to pay! I am so glad I have these pictures!!!!
Preston was a little unsure about this strange man with a beard but was intrigued so he didn't cry at all.

Aren't these adorable pictures and isn't he a great Santa?!

9 Months

2010-12-16T16:22:00.001-08:00

I've been meaning to get my act together for a while but I finally took Preston to get his portraits done today. I absolutely love the way they turned out and I'm so glad to have these adorable pictures of my boy.

Playing with the Bouncer

2010-12-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

Preston loves bouncing, but also loves to just play at the bouncer. This little boy couldn't be any cuter.

He is so content to just play on his own.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2010-11-28T17:37:00.000-08:00

The day after Thanksgiving with the Carter's we headed over to the Coons for a couple days. Cousins Luke and Preston are 2 months apart but Luke is the same size as Preston. Here they are in their matching ra"coons" outfits from Grammy.

As you can see, it is impossible to get these 2 to sit still for the camera but they sure are adorable!

Random

2010-11-23T21:16:00.000-08:00

These are some shots over the last month that I just love.
Sitting in his crib

I bought the most adorable knitted polar bear hat and mittens for this winter. Preston is our little polar bear.

Preston was just chillin' while mommy shopped at Target.

In some ways he looks pitiful but he was just happily hanging out.

Socks pulled high to keep warm during a nap.

I love this one! We have a video monitor and Preston was trying to get up to the camera. It's like he knew I was on the other end!

Preston and Mercedes are only 2 weeks apart. They are so adorable together! They were happy to hang out on the floor while the parents ate dinner.