Christmas Spirit

Pierce and our snowman we made. Dad made a few enhancements, arms and hat, Pierce was super excited to make it!

The first snowman! He has asked just about everyday, "Is it the right kind of snow to make a snowman yet?"

The boys with Santa. We waited forever in the line to see him and what do you know they don't even look at the camera. Plus you weren't supposed to take your own pictures because they want you to pay a bjillion dollars for one of theirs. Can you tell Santa looks a little bit upset!

This year I admit that I have been lacking the Christmas spirit and had a bad case of the "BAH HUMBUGS"! It is pretty bad when your 4 year old tells you that, "You need to get some Christmas Spirit!" The only thing that keeps me a little excited is the thought of seeing the excitement in my children as they get closer to the day!

Once there were some snowmen...

The boys enjoyed playing out in the snow yesterday! I think that they ate more of it then they played with it!

Snow angels!

Pierce also loved throwing snowballs at Gracie.. I am not sure she enjoyed it, but he got a good laugh out of it!

white lie

The other day I was in the bathroom getting ready when I heard Brock crying in the other room. Brock ran right to me and said that Pierce had hit him in the head.
I went to find where Pierce was so that he could apologize for what he had done. He was of course hiding, number one sign that he is guilty. When I found him I asked him to tell me what happened. He sat there for a brief moment and looked me right in the eye and said," Mom you wouldn't believe it, there was this magical witch that came in this room and hit Brock right in the head!" I tried not to laugh as I explained that we need to tell the truth even when we do something wrong. Beware your house might have magical witches too!

..Life is Precious..

I debated on even sharing the things I experienced on Monday night, but decided that someday Brock might enjoy reading them. Since I use this as my journal here it goes:
Monday November 23, 2009 was just like any other day. We woke up Brock was complaining once again that his ear were bugging him, I gave him some Tylenol and took his temperature, 99.6, no big deal. Then we were off to work at the gym. Nothing unusual.
Later that day we enjoyed our gourmet lunch of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with a side of Doritos. We left our house at 3:30 to take Pierce to gymnastics in Bountiful. My mom agreed to meet us there to watch the amazing gymnast.We watched as usual as Pierce did his somersaults and cartwheels, while Brock played with his BELOVED Lightning McQueen cars that he must take with us everywhere. He also loves watching his brother and cheering!
After leaving the gymnastics I needed to go get some things from Costco since we were just around the corner from one. My mom once again agreed to come with and help out, gotta love her! Walking down the aisles at Costco we enjoyed free samples, laughing, and listening to Brockie repeat things over and over. Everything seemed normal.
We reached the checkout line and I began loading up my purchases onto the conveyor belt. I am trying to ignore my crying child, Brock, who is sitting buckled in the front of the cart crying because he wants to get out! I turn around and tell him we are almost done and he can't get out and just to relax. I turn around to finish loading up my items. I turn back to the cart, there is no more crying, I see Brock slumped over in the cart. I think to myself, did he really just fall asleep that fast, it was less than a minute before he was crying. I walk over to him to peek, when I see his eyes roll back into his head. I think what the heck is going on.
The next few moments were kind of a blur. It seemed as if everything was moving in slow motion, but also so fast! The man behind us in line sees Brock and says, " ma'am, your son is having a seizure. My son has these all the time. I know what to do, let me take it from here." He proceeds to take Brock out of the cart and remove his clothing. At this point his entire body is shaking. He is turning blue and not breathing. I am panicked, I completely froze. I am thinking,"this is not happening, he was just fine". The man yells for someone to call 911.
Immediately I am surrounded by a team of professional help. What are the chances that the front end supervisor at Costco is a pediatric trauma nurse, paramedics just happen to be shopping in the store, the man behind me in line has a son who suffers from seizures, and I have a lady named Nancy consoling me and my mom?
The nurse began giving Brock rescue breaths. The paramedics, who were off duty, began working on Brock. Before I knew it I was being whisked away with my little Lumpy on a stretcher bound for Primary Children's Hospital. It happened all in a split second. I am so glad that those people were there to help in our time of need. It couldn't have been better timing. I am so thankful that my sweet mom was there by my side, and took care of my Pierce so I could be with Lumpy.
Trent was on his way out of town with a friend to go hunting, luckily still within cell phone reception. He got a horrifying call from my mom to, "GET HOME NOW, Brock had a seizure and wasn't breathing!" What a terrible ride that must have been back for 3 hours!
When they took Brock's temperature in Costco it had Spiked to 102.7 by the time we got into the ambulance his temperature was 103.9! His pulse was 196! He was completely out of it. I held him and just prayed the whole way to the hospital that he would be okay.
We arrived to Primary Children's and the poking and prodding began. He hated every minute of that. He was screaming and totally disoriented. My heart ached for him. Before I knew it he was back asleep, as they say having a seizure is like running a marathon. He was exhausted. I enjoyed every moment that was spent cuddling him. I felt peace. My mom made it shortly after our arrival, along with my dad, sister, Camron. They gave him a sweet Priesthood blessing. I knew then, all would be well.Trent arrived later and I was so relieved to have him there.
We decided to have him admitted for the extra watch. They say Febrile Seizures with small children is more common than you think. But I knew I would be panicked and stressed all night if I were to go home. We spent the night and throughout the night Brock had no fever! He actually went the other way, he was freezing. They gave me heat blankets to try and get him warmed up. He finally was warm by 3 in the morning. I slept until 4 when he awoke with joy! He had so much energy. He wanted to play and watch Toy Story. I was so relieved my little boy was okay. In the morning he did spike another fever of 104 but no seizure. They released us later that afternoon after his fever had gone down. The only explanation they gave for the seizure was because of the rate of increase in his temperature. The fever is still a mystery.. they said maybe a virus was causing it? We have yet to find out!
He is home now and doing well. No fevers, cross our fingers. We have had a couple times where he has gotten cold again, but we warmed him right up.
I am so thankful for all the many "angels" who were watching out for him that day. I am thankful for all my sweet neighbors, friends, and family members who have expressed love and support for our family. I am thankful for the power of Priesthood blessings and for my Heavenly Father, who loves us!
I had a rough time, but I learned a lot from it. I learned to not take for granted what you have. To take time for the little things, even if you think you are too busy. Life can change in a SPLIT SECOND! I am thankful most of all for my little Brockie, He is such an amazing little boy. Even when he is so sick, he finds ways to try and cheer up everyone around him. Even worrying about others. I know now why we are taught to be more like children, they are so innocent and perfect, they never complain, and they have true Christ-like love. I will try to be a better person because of him. I love you Brock.

All in a week..

This past week was filled with news! Some life altering news!
On Wednesday we went to my 18 week check up and found out that we are for sure having a GIRL! It really took me by surprise. I am not sure what to think. I think I am still in denial. It was overwhelming to me I think. A girl, what will I do with a girl? I feel like with me alone there is a little to much emotion and hormones going on in our house. We will for sure be getting a wake up call when she comes! Oh, the dresses and hair bows... and actually having to put some thought into what she wears.
Then on Friday Trent and I finalized our decision on whether or not to move to Baltimore, Maryland for a new job at Johns Hopkins Medical in compliance. This was by far one of the hardest decisions. We absolutely love where we live. We have been so blessed with awesome friends, family, neighbors and ward family here. It will be challenging but hopefully worth it in the end. Talk about an emotional week. The good news is we get to be here until the end of the year. So the holidays will be great! I am sad, but also very excited to have a new adventure. Wish us luck.. it will be crazy!

Halloween

This year after being sick for entire week, (stay tuned for more details), we decided it would be best to Trick-or-Treat at the mall. The boys enjoyed it and actually got quite a bit of candy. They wimped out before we reached all the stores because their bags were "too heavy!"

Pierce even scored a golf ball at one of the stops. The man handing out the candy couldn't believe he picked that over a piece of candy!

The boys with their loot!

Don't they look so cute. People couldn't get enough of Brock. He was being pretty cute. He said to almost all the people handing out candy," Trick-or-Treat, Happy Halloween!" In his cute little munchkin voice!

Sure was a good Halloween!

Weekend with Tyden

A Couple of weekends ago we had a sleep over with cousin Tyden. The boys sure had a good time! Here is a cute picture I got of them!

Going to do it for real this time

For sure I will be making my blog private.. so if you want to be included in the reading list please send me your email address. You can leave a comment here or email me personally at mikacker82@hotmail.com. I don't care if you haven't talked to me in ages, I just want to make sure that my blog is safe.. so I can control who is reading. So don't feel weird, because I don't! Thanks.. Also if anyone needs help setting up a gmail account I can assist you, as you must log in to gmail to view my blog after I make it private.

The Color Black

Today at Preschool it was the color "Black" day! Pierce has been looking forward to this all week. This morning as we were getting ready he insisted on wearing his "Ne-yo" hat! I think that he looked pretty darn cute! I love his personality!

A Boys Best Friend

On Sunday Pierce went over to Gracie's Pillow and asked if she wanted to cuddle with him. Here is the end result. He absolutely loves his dog. He calls her "Little Sweetie". I have to admit it is pretty cute!

Lumpy's Girlfriend

This is Brock and his girlfriend Maycee. These two are so cute together. You can often find them playing, hugging, and even giving an occasional kiss. We just might plan an arranged marriage because we absolutely love her family.

Brad Paisley

On September 19th Trent and I had a night out together. For Father's day I surprised him with tickets to the Brad Paisley concert. We had cheap seats on the grass at Usana Amphitheatre. It was an awesome concert. The opening act was Dierks Bentley. Brad really can jam out on his guitar and we just love the lyrics to his songs. We had a great time together. Also we were entertained by the people around us that had a little too much to drink and were falling down before Brad even started. We laughed pretty hard! Love you Tbird.. had a great time!

Pierce cracks me up!

Just maybe a sign that my 4 year old child might be watching a little too much T.V.... When he sees a billboard like this one while we are driving and without skipping a beat says," hey mom look that is the money you could be saving with Geico!" I about lost it! I was laughing so hard! I love my little p!

*Tuckered Out*

I was in the laudry room and it sounded way to quiet.. usually means trouble. I couldn't find Brock. I am thinking uh-oh! When I went in his room I found him asleep! He just must have crashed! Cute boy was TIRED!

4 is fun!

He was thrilled with the cake.. it turned out okay. Good thing 4 year old's aren't too picky!

My mom would appreciate this picture.. He is doing a heart with his hands and telling me, "Mama this means I love you!" What a sweet boy!

Hats off to breakfast at McDonald's!

Happy Birthday Breakfast!

I am little bit behind on my blogging. Pierce turned 4 September 4, 2009. He was so excited for this day. We spent the day with family since it was over Labor day weekend. Our tradition is to take them out to breakfast for their birthdays. Pierce chose to go to McDonald's. He was thrilled. He absolutely loves to eat the pancakes and sausage. We then headed up to Barker Park to meet family there for fun times. After a quick lunch we headed to Heber, long drive. The boys all got to ride on the Heber Creeper and the ladies went to Swiss Days. When this was over we made our journey back to Ogden, another long drive. All Pierce wanted for dinner was Pizza Factory. Yum. We couldn't eat fast enough! Back to the Barker Park for some camping fun. Don't forget the AWESOME Phineas and Ferb cake I spent hours making.. I thought it turned out okay for a rookie.
Life without Pierce would be dull. We absolutely love every bit of him. He is such a fun loving happy boy. I love how he is always trying to cheer me up. Pierce remembers everything... I wish I had the memory that he does. Trent and I often are amazed with the things he remembers from months or years ago. It really is crazy. Pierce has a smile that can light a room and a laugh that is pure enjoyment. I love you Pierce!

august flew by

I cannot believe that August is over.. Holy cow where did the time go? We had a busy month and it felt like I barely had time to sit down. But when I try and think back as to why it was so crazy I cannot think of things.
As many of you already know we found out that Baby #3 is on its way. I have been worried about that. I am excited but a little worried that we will be for sure over taken by children. There is no even ratio of adults to children. I guess I will figure it out, other people do so why can't I, right? I am not due until April so I have some time to prepare myself. I have been sick a couple of days, a new thing for me as I didn't really have this issue with my boys. Pierce has been taking good care of me. He wraps me up in blankets and lays with me. One day he yelled at my tummy, " be nice to my mommy, quit making her throw up!" It is cute. He keeps trying to figure out how I am going to get it out of my stomach. He has resolved that he will just jump down my throat and pull it out! Should be interesting. Brock has no clue what is going on other than I am so tired all the time and sick. He just gives me weird looks like I should just snap out of it.
We spent a weekend in SLC in The Grand America Hotel. We pretty much felt like hillbillies there. It was sooooooo nice. But we had a really fun time eating and swimming our brains out.
Gracie graduated from obedience school. She did great on the last night, they tested their skills that they have learned, she won 3 large bones, which meant she got best of class on 3 things. I was so proud. And yes, I am learning to love her!
Not much else I can think of now. Sorry I have been so bad and not keeping up! I will post some pictures later.

Lumpy turned two..

Lumpy Turned two on July 26th. We celebrated with a small party with cousins and grandparents. He was so cute to watch open his presents. He loved all his presents. He got a big wheel, helmet, buzz wings, fireman helmet, sponge bob doll, trucks, money,and Mr. potato head. He was spoiled rotten!

How could you resist this cute face! Although he is QUITE a CHALLENGE, we absolutely love our Brock. He is full of energy and always on the go. He loves to try and make us laugh.

His cake.. not so cute,but he had to have a Woody-Buzz cake

Cute smile!

He needs to grow a little so he can see over the handles and touch the pedals!

Love you Lumps.. hope you had a Happy Birthday!

Road Trip!

D.C. temple

Jayme, Trent and Lucas at the Nationals game

Me and Tbird

Most amazing farmers market. My dad would appreciate this!

Riding a bike! HAHAHA

Sister Belliston and I at the harbor

Tbird and the Missionaries!

Don't they look cute in missionary attire!

Eating on the Pier.. happy 6 year anniversary! I love you TBird!

Gotta love the beach! Nothing better!

Eating his Philly!

Crazy vendor guy with NO TEETH! but the food was good.

Us at the independence hall, upstairs.

Me where our country began!

Outside Independence hall

Supreme Court Room

Liberty Bell

Life is pretty tough on the mission, the entrance to their neighbor hood.. can we say upgrade!

Exit! Yahoo we made it!

Nauvoo Temple!

Mississippi River!

We missed out on this place... let us in, PLEASE

So this last week Trent and I went for a little road trip to Baltimore, Maryland! His parents are there on a mission, and asked if we could drive one of their cars out to them. We were both pretty excited. We ditched our boys, Pierce went to Uncle Brady and Aunt Sasha, and Lumpy went to my parents. We left Tuesday about 12:30. We started cruising along.. jamming out to all our favorite tunes and laughing our bloody heads off. Trent kept telling me the whole trip that I was like a 14 year old at a slumber party. It has been a while since I laughed that hard. Our goal the first day was to make it all the the way to North Platte, Nebraska. Trent really wanted to go to this steak house and eat. He has been raving about it since his last across the country road trip. We thought we had plenty of time until it dawned on us that they were in central times zone. So sad.. we were so close and missed it by 3 minutes. I bet you can imagine the pain Trent was going through, especially when he had to settle for Applebees! We spent the night in a crummy motel in Lincoln, Nebraska. Nebraska was a beautiful place with all the corn fields.

The next morning we got going early and headed a little of the beatin' path down to see Nauvoo and Carthage. I have never been there and have always wanted to. Wow, is all I have to say. It was great to actually put an image to what I have learned all my life. Made me really appreciate all that Joseph Smith did! We made it that night to Indianapolis, Indiana. Sorry if I offend you but, honestly that city was not my favorite. It needs some help. We stayed in a way worse motel that night, Trent and I could hardly stand the stench and the toilet ran all night long! The name, Dollar Inn, should have been the first sign!

The next morning we got out of there ASAP! Our goal was to make it to his parent's house. We journeyed through West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and then Maryland. This was by far the best part of our drive. The scenery was amazing!
Once we got there things didn't settle one bit. We ate, then met the missionaries. They introduced us that night to some amazing Italian ice from Ritas! Highly recommend if you ever take a trip out there. We went sleep. It was so nice to sleep in a nice place after spending a couple of nights in the crappiest motels ever!
The next morning we drove up to Philadelphia.. it is amazing how free you feel with no kids a 3 hour drive feels like nothing. You would think that we would be sick of driving, not yet! We saw the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Philadelphia wouldn't be complete without a Philly cheese steak! Yummy! I loved the old cobble stone streets and cool buildings. I became fascinated with the row houses too. I think it would be fun to live in one for a little while, just to get a feel for it! We then had another wild idea to drive up to Atlantic City. We were expecting a trashy place, but it really was quite nice. We did some shopping, hung out on the beach, and ate some yummy food at a place on the Pier called The Continental!
The next morning we got up and spent the morning with Trent's parents at the Baltimore harbor. Had some more Ritas and Tbird and his dad had some traditional Baltimore Crab Cakes! After this Trent and I drove down to Washington, D.C. and met his friend Jayme Blakesley and his son Lucas. We walked around this awesome farmers market and then went and ate at a swanky Italian restaurant. After dinner we went to the National Portrait Museum, that was pretty amazing, we were trying to kill some time before we went to the Washington Nationals Baseball game. We got rained out in the 2 inning and gave up after waiting 2 hours to see if they were going to start the game. We headed back to the Blakesley House and met Katie there for some ice-cream and good laughs. It has been so long since we have seen them. We had such a great time.
Sunday morning we got up and went to church with Trent's parents and then went for a drive. We had dinner.. the biggest hamburgers I have ever seen. Their back patio was amazing and full of scenery, after all the back yard is practically the woods. We saw foxes, blue jays, cardinals, and orioles. I loved it there. Trent and I drove down to see the D.C. temple. It was pretty neat. I loved the out it just jumped out at you on the freeway. It was breathtaking.
Monday it was time to get ready to come home. We spent the morning cleaning up the car. There were so many bugs on the front! Hard work. We hated this coming to the end, but we were in all honesty missing our boys just a little. I cannot wait to go out there again.. maybe next time we will fly!