The Erickson Family

Wow I Thought It Would Get Easier!

2009-12-17T19:52:00.000-08:00

So it is that time of year again when I am really happy and really sad at the same time. I love Christmas! I love everything about it! It is my favorite time of year, but it is also the most difficult time of year for me as well. If you can believe it or not it has been 3 years tomorrow since we lost our sweet little Hunter. I think that it has been harder on me this year than last year. You would think the longer it has been the easier it would get! Nope not in my case :) My heart is aching to be able to hold him and love on him.

He would have been 5 this year. He would always say "I can't wait until I am 5 so I can go to school with all the big kids." He was a really smart boy and was super excited to start school as well as play sports just like his older cousins. He would always love to go to their soccer games and after they were over he would say "can I play soccer just like them when I am 5". Maybe that is why this year has been harder than the last. I think one of the hardest things for me is attending any of my nieces and nephews concerts, sports events, etc. It breaks my heart that he was never able to participate in any of these activities and that he was so excited to turn 5 so he can be just like his cousins.

We went to the cemetery today to put some Christmas decorations up and to put some fresh flowers on his grave. Of course I have been teary eyed all day. Being at worked helped in that department keeping my mind busy.

One of my friends today text me to see if there was anything she could do for me and if I minded that she brought me flowers. The only response I could say was that I am just happy that she remembers and that he is not forgotten. Her response to that was that if it was important to me that it was important to her. I am thankful to have such great friends.

Kaleb doesn't quite understand where Hunter is at. McKensie called him brother a few days ago and he says "no I am not brother, brother is sick and points to the picture of Hunter" We are working on trying to explain to him but he is still little and doesn't quite understand.

Jeff and I are working on being able to go to the Temple so that we can be sealed to our kids. This is our goal that we are setting ourselves to meet this next coming year. I would love nothing more to know that we are sealed to our children for all eternity. It breaks my heart right now to know that we are not yet sealed to my sweet little Hunter! However, I do know that he is with us and will be watching and helping us meet this goal.

I think that this has been the hardest thing that the Lord has tested me with. However, I do know that he does not throw anything at us that we can not handle. I just keep thinking that I am so sad and hurt that we lost Hunter but extremely happy that Kaleb was saved. I remember the day of Hunter's funeral I was sitting by Kaleb's bed side holding his hand waiting for someone to come sit with him so he wouldn't have to be alone. When all of the sudden he opened one of his eyes. The day we layed our oldest son to rest it was sort of like our other son was born again. I think the lord works in mysterious ways. I really believe having Kaleb come out of the coma that specific day was the lord's gift to us to help get us through the toughest trial in our life.

So I have been rambling on, and on but I do feel better being able to share my thoughts and feelings. Life is precious and we all need to live it to the fullest. We never know what the lord has in store for us.

Hunter Pictures!

2009-12-17T11:59:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T19:42:00.000-08:00

So I haven't blogged forever which I am having to back up a few weeks in order to get in some of the main events.

Thanksgiving was great this year. We all got together at Heathers for our big feast! Yes, all of us together in one house is crazy but I wouldn't miss it for the world. I love the tradition as we all take our part and each of us make parts of the dinner. This year we had 3 turkeys. Yes 3 whole turkeys. Lots of turkey leftovers but it sure goes to good use.

I always love our family gatherings. The good food and the games we play afterwards. We were lucky this year and our Aunt and Uncle from Utah came in for the big event along with a few of our cousins. It was a nice treat to have them here. I learned how to make lots of different candies. Of course that is what we all need to be eating this time of year. I loved it!! We are glad they were able to join us.

This year I kept seeing posts of what everyone was thankful for. We all have lots to be thankful for. I am most thankful for our big family and all the support and love they give each other.

McKensie Turns 2 Today!!

2009-11-18T06:56:00.001-08:00

I can't believe that it has been 2 years already. She has grone up fast! She is a very smart girl and we are very proud of her. We love you sister.

She has always had her own little personality. Of course she loves sweets and is always excitited to eat them. Here she is eating her first birthday cake and in heaven.

This was her at Christmas showing off the little bit of attitude she has. She was playing peek-a-boo with the camera and I do say it turned out really cute.
We got her a dress for her Birthday and I can't believe how grown up she looks in it. She is so big and very girly. She loves dresses & dolls.
She especially loves Hats! This is a hat that her Grandma Judi got her for her birthday and she just loves wearing it around. Of course it doesn't match her pretty birthday dress but she just had to wear it.

We are going to take her the Denny's tonight for her birthday because her favorite thing to eat is pancakes and that is what she will have for dinner on her special day!!

Happy Birthday we love you!

Kids say the funnies things!

2009-11-12T06:50:00.000-08:00

So yesterday Jeff and I picked up the kids from day care and went to get water. I sat in the back with the kids and was talking to Kaleb. Jeff was trying to talk to Kensie. She of course was being a brat and looking out the window deliberatly not looking at him. Jeff kept saying her name Kensie, McKensie, Kensie. Finally, as she was still looking out the window she said "I am thinking about something". You could tell that she was trying her hardest not to look at either of us and you could see the corners of her mouth twitch like she was trying really hard not to smile. We both just laughed. Finally, I stuck my face right up to hers and said love you Kensie and she looked at us and said love you.

Keep in mind this little girl with the attitude is not even 2 years old yet. We know we are going to have our hands full with her.

Cute Bathtime Pictures!

2009-11-09T14:12:00.001-08:00

So I just had to post these pictures my mom just emailed me. I don't remember her taking them but obviously I was so into the book I was reading I didn't notice her taking the pictures.

This is a routine we have with the kids. They always brush their teeth right after their bath. This time Kaleb had to go to the bathroom so I put him on the toilet which was just great for McKensie since they always fight who gets to stand on the stool and go first. Well McKensie thought she would be helpful and give him his tooth brush and some toothpaste so he could brush his teeth while going to the bathroom. I just love when they are nice to each other!

Adult Weekend Getaway!

2009-11-09T09:38:00.001-08:00

So Jeff and I decided at the last minute to go on a trip to California without kids. My mom was nice enough to take the kids for a few days so we could get away. My sister and her husband had planned this trip to Magic Mountain about a month ago with a few of their friends. Jeff and I didn't know if we would be able to get off work or not to go. Of course the day before they left we found out that we could go. So we hitched a ride with them and headed for California. We got their pretty early on Friday and after checking in to our hotel we headed for the beach in Santa Monica! Both the weather and water were great. We got to walk on the beach at night and put our feet in the ocean. The water was great and we had a good time.

Saturday we got up and ate breakfast and headed on down to Magic Mountain. It was a crazy day. Of course it had to be a weekend when all the teenage groups ended up going. So we were surrounded by teenagers and long lines. All in all it was fun and wasn't to bad. I think the longest we had to wait in lines were like and hour and a half. This was for the new roller coaster called the X2 which was well worth the wait. I think my favorite in the park was the Tatsu which you ride hanging upside down dangling in the air. This was a picture I got right underneath the ride. We rode this ride about 3 times.
Of course you can't go to a theme park without taking a picture with a cartoon character. I am not sure but it always seems like a fun thing to do. Acting like kids, eating curros, and funnel cake who can beat a day like that. We both had a great time and really enjoyed ourselves. It has been a long time since we got to spend a weekend together without our kids. Don't get me wrong we did miss the kids but it is refreshing to getaway once in awhile and spend time together.

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

We had a great time this year with the kids. Both kids were really excited. We started off with a Halloween Carnival on Wednesday which Kaleb just couldn't stop sneaking onto the train ride. We couldn't find him one time and when we did he was sitting on the train next to someone sneaking in a free ride. McKensie just wanted to run all over the place. I brought my camera but of course I was busy just chasing the kids that I forgot to take any pictures.

On Saturday we all got up and went to breakfast at Bill Johnson's in celebration of Nate's birthday. Once done with breakfast and full of energy we headed over to my sister Heather's for some pumpkin carving. McKensie was having a blast just sticking different things inside the carved pumpkins. She didn't want to get down from the table.

Kaleb of course can't really stay put for longer than a minute so he was all over the place. Him and his cousin Elli were nice enough to sit still for a minute so we could take their picture with each of their pumpkins.

As we were cleaning up we were setting all the finished pumpkins down and the kids just wanted to play with them all. Kaleb kept calling them balls and I thought for sure he was going to throw them.

Once done with the pumpkin carving we ended up going to home for a break and to give the kids a good nap before a long night of trick or treating. The kids were super excited to get into their costumes. Once I put McKensie in her costume it was like she became a whole different person.

McKensie was so excited that she walked the entire time almost running house to house to talk to people and to get candy. She would say hi to everyone and would say thank you. She even talked to a few people. For those of you who know McKensie she does not do well with people she does not see on a daily basis. It always takes her at least an hour to warm up to anyone. She doesn't even like strangers to look at her. Yes, I know she is a brat but a very cute brat!

Kaleb on the other hand it was like pulling teeth to get him out of the wagon to go up to the house to trick or treat. He didn't want to walk and just wanted someone to get him candy so that he could sit in the wagon and eat it all! Lazy, Lazy, Lazy! Of course we made him get out if he wanted candy because we weren't going to get it for him. We all had a blast and the kids were very tired by the end of the night. Kaleb counln't wait to get out of his costume but McKensie probably could have slept in her costume. There was one time during the night that her hat fell off and she freaked out until we put the hat back on. She kept saying look at my costume. She was really proud of her gnoam costume. Everyone really liked the costumes but they kept calling them munchkins! I guess they could have been either or but I do say they were cute costumes!

Daily Happenings!

2009-09-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

So this is what Jeff does everyday with the children. He is a great dad and always takes time to sit with his children either playing games or watching a movie with them. It is always funny to watch the kids look at each other and say my daddy, while the other one says no its my daddy. We have to constantly remind the children that it is both their daddy.

Slip N Slide!

2009-09-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend we got together with some friends and enjoyed the thrills of the slip n slide. This would be a first for our family. We really enjoyed ourselves. We quickly learned that the more soap you squirted on yourselves the faster you would slide. At one point I even put on a garbage bag that allowed you to go faster as well which the faster you went the more fun it was. Well some of us enjoyed it. Kensie of course was really mad that we made her go down. She was scared but of course we had to make her go down a few times.

Kaleb on the other hand loved it. He was really excited and had a blast especially when he went down with his dad.

Thanks to Heather she was able to get a picture of all of us going down the slide. Fun times we had.

McKensie seemed to be content sitting on the side lines a little ways away from the slide.

Thanks for no injuries, just lots of soap, water, and fun.

Kaleb's Mishaps!

2009-09-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

So of course it never fails Kaleb always ends up with cuts and bruises on his head. The week before he fell at Heather's and hit his chin on the fire place. The very next week he fell outside by the car and hit his head on the sliding van door.

He is a tough boy. Only cried for a little bit and then was smiling eating pancakes. I do have to admit he does have a hard head. I can only hope he keeps the head blows to a minimum.

Relief Society Retreat!

2009-08-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

So I was able to get away for a night up to Showlow with the sisters of the ward! This was my first year going on the retreat and I had alot of fun. It was nice to hangout and get to know the women in the ward. Of course I am really bad and didn't take any pictures. We all enjoyed the evening of fun, food, and games!

Day at the Meuseum!

2009-07-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

Saturday Jeff & I took the kids to a meuseum. The kids had a blast. There were lots of fun activities for the kids to participate in.

This kids had a great time and it was nice to be able to spend a day with them doing multiple activities.

Mother & Kids Campout!

2009-07-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

So I had a week off during the summer to spend with the kids. We got together with some friends and took the kids camping. Kids were not that bad but I did realize that having a husband around does help a great deal.

Kensie & Kaleb had a lot of fun. Of course the kids played in the dirt and got dirty. The dirtier they got the more fun they had.

There was a little stream near by that the kids wanted to play in. The water was cold but very refreshing during the day in the hot sun!

I do say that I learned a few things this trip. Always drive yourself so you have a get away when you have cranky kids at night and bring your own tent. I was greatful to share a tent but stressed out trying to keep my kids quiet to not disturb the others. All and all it was fun and a great experience.

New Callings!

2009-07-06T08:06:00.000-07:00

I knew that the Bishop wanted to give me a calling but was having a hard time since I have two little kids at home and my husband works two jobs. So I am really excited to say that I received two callings. My first calling is on the enrichment committee. I am really excited to help out in the relief society and work on helping plan some of the activities. My second calling is in Young Womens. I was called to be the Personal Progress Specialist which they explained to me that this is to help each of the YW set and meet their Goals. I am really excited to start working with each of the YW, and teachers and getting to know them.

2009 Avon Walk For Breast Cancer

2009-07-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

I left last Friday to participate in the Avon Walk For Breast Cancer. I don't have anyone in my life that was affected by Breast Cancer but my sister Katie was participating and I thought it sounded like fun. So we set off on the plane. We both talked about how were were a little scared but when we got on the plane it was like "Oh we can do this no problem". We were both really excited to participate in such a great event.

The walk started bright and early on Saturday morning. Here we are freezing since we didn't know how cold it was we were not that prepared. But we were both really excitied and happy especially that they had breakfast laying out on the tables ready for everyone. The opening ceremonies started and that is when I knew that this was going to be a great experience. It was very emotional hearing the stories from both women and men on how breast cancer has effected their lives. Right then I knew that the next two days was going to be worth every mile. So we started off.

Once we started on our walk and were amazed at how much support from the crew members and volunteers that we received. It seemed like we were one big happy family. The love and kindness that everyone showed was overwhelming. The first 13 miles went by fast and we were all feeling really good.

There were five of us in our group. Once we had finished lunch we were very excited and started out for the final and last 13 miles for the day. How hard could it be the first 13 miles was great. Little did we know that this is where the challenging part was going to be. Once we got to mile 16-26 we were all pretty much beat and in pain. I didn't know that walking would wear out your body that much. But every time when you were thinking I don't want to this any more or my body hurts there was someone that would walk by and ask how you are doing and give you words of encouragement. There was one experience that I woun't forget is that we came to the top of this hill which was mile 19 and were all exhausted and thinking we don't want to go on. Then saw this women who had to have been at least 70 years old and was wearing a sign that said 20 year survior. Oh my heart just went out to this women that she has been in much more pain than me and look at her. That is when you tell yourself this is why we are doing this for the women and men who have been affected by this horrible disease. Hey if this women can do it so can we. So we headed on our way to finish the last 7 miles for the day.

Yep, here we are with the aches and pains at the 26 mile marker. As we were crossing the finish line the tears that came as we had just accomplished something great. Swollen feet and all there was a fresh pool of water with a bag of ice for us to soak our feet in when we were done. The smiles, cheers, and looks from everyone made it worth every mile.

Sunday when we woke up we were all really sore. After a great breakfast despite the fact we could hardly walk we headed out to walk our last 13 miles. This was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. My body was over worked but, just when you are ready to give up someone was there to help boost your spirits and keep you going. The love and support from everyone is what got us all through. By mile 35 I was just drained and it took everything I had to keep moving. As we all held hands and walked through the finish line it was worth every mile we walked. The joy and emotions that you feel was overwhelming and the cheers and love that everyone showed was worth it.

I would have to say this was a very humbling experience. Despite my bruised shin and sore hips I would definatley do it again and encourage everyone to participate in an event like this. I would say that spiritually and mentally I am a better person because of this walk. I am very greatful that I was able to share this experience with my sister and to get to know her. Thanks Katie for everything. I love you.

Kaleb's Scare!!

2009-06-24T07:42:00.000-07:00

Well we have been pretty lucky this year with Kaleb. It never fails that at least once a year he really scares us! For some reason which of course is always unknown Kaleb has episodes which gives him breathing problems. Yesterday when I got home from work I picked up the kids and Jeff to run some errands and I noticed that Kaleb was coughing really bad. So we put it on our list to make sure to get him some cough syrup. No big deal right. Well then as he was sitting in his car seat I looked back at him and noticed that he was struggling and working hard to breathe. Almost like an asthma attack but the doctors never call it asthma. So I was just keeping an eye on him. We were in Walmart and that is when I noticed the wheezing so we decided it was time to take him in to urgent care to have the doctors look at him. This one came on really fast and we are just glad we caught it early so NO hospital time was required. Sure enough they didn't like the way his lungs sounds so right away he was given a dose of steroids followed by a breathing treatment. Once the first treatment was over they listened to him and decided that it would be best to do another one because he still was working to breathe normally. Well to my surprise Kaleb was a big boy and handled this very well.

He even likes to wear the mask now. He puts it on and then waves his arms around like he is swimming. It takes about 8-10 minutes for the entire treatment.

He is so grown up because he just sits there now and is calm and doesn't cry or through a fit. Yeah for us to not have to be stressed out the entire time during the treatments. It is hard enough that he has to have them every 4 hours. The only down fall is that there are steroids in them which makes him a little hyper. But hey we can deal with that.....

Mi Amigo's

2009-06-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

Mi Amigo's is a fun exciting restaurant. Lots of good food. The service is great and the food comes out hot! Always a plus! The nacho's are terrific. The chips and salsa is always an added plus. Go to www.miamigos.com to find out about all the upcoming events and specials they are offering.

Sister's Wedding!

2009-06-17T08:05:00.000-07:00

This last weekend we headed up to the Greer Lodge Resort for my sister's Wedding. This was the view from the cabin that we stayed in. I loved it. We had a bachlorette party on Friday night which was alot of fun.
Saturday morning we had a big family breakfast and then off to do some decorating for the wedding. We were really scared there for a little while as the wedding was outside and the weather that day was crazy. This is the sky a few hours before the wedding.
Finally it was time for us to get ready. My kids were a little crazy because Jeff brought the kids up on Saturday which is a 4 hour car ride so they arrived just a few hours before the wedding. Of course they were nuts just from being in the car for so long. But I do admit they are cute kids when they are all dressed up!

Finally after waiting for the Judge to show up (45 minutes late) it was time for the wedding. I do have to say that she makes a beautiful bride. She was georgeous! I do have to admit that I got teary eyed when she came down the walkway with all her 4 boys. I thought it was really cute that they walked her down the isle.

The day went pretty smooth. This picture was taked after the kiss! It's offical and her facial expression makes the picture even better. She was soo happy. Congratulations Kelly we are all really happy for you. Welcome to the family Gerard! We Love You Guys!

The reception was held at the rodeo grounds. Lots of good food and dancing. Here is a picture of Kaleb and me during the mother son dance. Yes, I am in jeans and a shirt. I was wearing a dress but McKinsey was sitting on my lap and peed right through her diaper and through my dress to the floor. That was fun, but hey I had an excuse to put on more comfortable clothes! Everything turned out great. Here is a picture of me and my hubby. Thanks to him taking care of the kids this weekend so I was able to help out alot. He really is a great husband and dad.

Here is a picture we took with all of us sisters! We finally got one of everyone togther. Does not happen too often that we are all together.

Lunch with Sisters!

2009-06-08T15:32:00.001-07:00

So it was last minute on Friday we were able to do a Sister's Lunch with the parents. Unfortunately Meagan was not able to make it but she was missed. This is something that is hard to schedule as we all have very different schedules. My sister Kelly was in town and we all just met at Applebee's sort of last minute planning but those are the best kinds of get togethers. We had alot of fun. Lvoe you all.

Kaleb's Finger!

2009-06-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

So, I just finished giving both the kids a bath and had run outside really fast to throw away a dirty diaper. So, I opened the door and went to close it real fast behind me so the kids wouldn't run out naked and didn't see Kaleb standing right behind me. Yep, got his finger right in the door. Thank goodness it was only the one finger. After he cried for about 20 mins he finally calmed down enough for me to put a bandaid on it. About an hour later he was laying on my lap while I was giving him loves he turned to me with a really sad face and said "you closed me in the door mom, you closed me in the door" and started crying again. It was so cute I actually laughed and said I know son I am sorry.

They Finally Tasted the Nacho Cheese!

2009-06-01T08:56:00.001-07:00

So when we go to Taco Bell we always get a Nachos for the kids but they never eat the cheese. Well McKensie is in the dipping stage and wants to dip and lick all the time. So she finally dipped her chip into the Nacho Cheese sauce and was hooked. Of course she can't do something that Kaleb isn't so he had to try it to.

What's funny is that somehow they ran out of chips before the nacho cheese was gone so they decided to use there vanilla waffers to dip in the cheese sauce. NASTY but they were really enjoying themselves. They did a really good job of sharing to.

McKensie never likes to share but for some reason she was all for sharing her Nacho Cheese and was happy about it.

I Was Tagged!

2009-05-18T08:16:00.001-07:00

This is my first time ever following through with a tag so here is my 6th picture in the 6th folder.

So here is my picture. McKensie loves to tak baths. She likes to play with cups and use that stop sign to stir the water in the cup. Both my kids think that bath time is cooking time. I just love their imaginations.

Quite Kids!

2009-05-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

So we as parents are always excited when are children are playing happily together without the screaming and crying. But, when 1/2 hour to 45 mins go buy with happy play we know that the children are up to no good (Especially when they are 3 and 1 years old.) I realized that I have not seen my children in awhile nor have they come to me crying. I then realized that it was tooo quite and that they have got to be doing something. I went back into Kalebs room where they had destroyed it. I found Kaleb and Kensie standing in the middle of the pile they had created just playing and laughing. They had gotten into his closet where 3 garbage bags of clothes that we are waiting for Kaleb to grow into had been ripped open. The clothes were all over the floor. The rugs were on his bed, the books and puzzles from his book shelf were all over, the bucket of toys and stuffed animals were no longer in the bucket, and to top it off they had taken the garbage bags and shredded them into small pieces. I should have taken pictures but I was really upset and just starting cleaning. But on the bright side they were playing quite nicely together and were not screaming back and forth at each other.

Kensie's favorite words right now are No, no and Kalebs are kensie did it. Keeps things interesting around here. Oh the joys of parenthood.

My Sweet Boys!

2009-05-08T13:02:00.000-07:00

I was going through some old pictures and came across this picture.

I just love this picture of my boys. Hunter loved his playhouse that his dad built for him. He was always excited to have his dad come out and play with him and he especially loved it when we would let Kaleb go up and play with him.
What a great dad to build such an awesome playhouse especially in the middle of Summer.

Family!

2009-05-02T18:36:00.001-07:00

So I feel like I have been the worst mother and wife this last week. I have been really cranky and over emotional. Why .... not quite sure. Work has been good and not to many things going on but for some reason I am having a dificult time. Thanks to my great husband who puts up with me and my children who keep smiling at me. They are a great inspiration in my life and I love them always.

Hiking Camelback!

2009-04-06T15:39:00.000-07:00

So this weekend I hiked Camelback with Peggy and Augie! It seemed like it was harder for me this time than the last! I still made it in 45-50 minutes so not too bad. The top of my right foot has been hurting for about four days didn't help much but I still made it to the top! We all had fun so thats what matters!

Interesting Night!

2009-04-01T20:54:00.000-07:00

I had an interesting night tonight. My mom was watching Heather's boys while she went to mutual with Haley. Jackson was following me around the house and I went into my room to put something away and he stopped to look at the blanket that I have on my bed of Hunter and he said "Where does your son live? I said what and he pointed to the picture and said where does Hunter live? I told him that he lives with Jesus and he got excited and said he lives at Chuck E Cheese. I started laughing cause I'm not sure where he came up with that, but I said no he lives with Heavenly Father now. He said oh and then just looked at the pictures for a minute and then left the room.

It makes me happy that even though Jackson is so young he still remembers who Hunter is. The small comments that all of the kids make every now and then makes me happy and sad at the same time. I am glad that they remember him.

New Computer!

2009-03-28T22:35:00.000-07:00

Well we finally did it an bought our first home computer. We have been using a hand me down we got from a coworker which was ancient! I always have a hard time purchasing something that costs more than 100 bucks since I am a penny pincher. I am super excited since we have been paying for internet and refused to use it at home because our computer was crappy. Now we can finally enjoy it.

Kaleb's Field Trip To The Zoo With His School Class!!

2009-02-27T08:18:00.000-08:00

I got the privilege to go with Kaleb on his first field trip for school. We went to the Phoenix Zoo. All the kids had a blast. The kids liked the giraffes since they were eating when we got there.

They were especially excited to see the otters swimming and that they had a little window for the kids to look through since they are all about 3 years old and are too short to see over the wall.

Of course Kaleb found a tree that he could look through and try and climb out of. He was having fun and wanted to run everywhere.

Finally, the kids got to ride the carosel and of course this was just the highlight of the day. They were all so tired and a nice break to ride the carosel was just what they all needed.

Here is a picture of most of the kids that when with us. We were missing about 3 kids in this picture. It was really hard trying to get a picture at the end of the day. Obviously we should have took the picture at the beginning before the kids were tired.
We had a really good time and it was fun to spend the day with him and to be their on his first adventure at school.

Hunter's Birthday!

2009-02-16T09:38:00.000-08:00

Well Hunter's Birthday was yesterday. I did better than I thought I would. Since it was a nice day we ended up buying some red heart balloons to let go down at the cemetary. All the kids had a good time and enjoy the balloon part. It was really nice for everyone to take time out of their day to come and spend a few moments to remember him.

Thanks Everyone it means alot to us!

My Dear Hunter!

2009-02-14T21:10:00.001-08:00

My sweet Hunter's Birthday is tomorrow. He would have been 6 years old. How big he would have been. I have been really torn with lots of mixed emotions this whole week. I hate that he is gone and I miss him so much. I think about him often which brings tears to my eyes. I have been in this emotional roller coaster for awhile now. He was such a smart sweet boy. I keep telling myself that god needed him more than us right now but that doesn't seem to ease the pain. It has been really hard for me and I am doing my best to stay strong. I remember the day he stopped breathing that his dad was visiting him and had to leave to take care of his little brother (Kaleb). Jeff said I love you son and in his sweet little sick voice he said I love you to Dad. Those were the last words that Jeff heard him say and I am very greatful of that. Hunter was a kind, sweet, loving child and we are glad he was a part of our lives even if it was only for a short while.

Everyone wants to know what I/we want to do for his birthday. I just don't know what to say. The last few years we have bought balloons to let off at the cemetary in rememberance of him on his birthday but last year it was cold and rainy and the balloons wouldn't float. It was really hard to have to take the balloons back home and then to try again a few days later. It was really emotional for me. So this year I stress out on what we should do that won't be so painful. Then I am told a story that breaks my heart. Peggy's oldest daughter Tatum had a birthday last month and had some balloons. When then went outside she said to her mom. "Can I give my balloons to Hunter" of course she said yes. It makes me happy and sad at the same time. I am glad that some of the nieces and nephews still remember him. I am not really sure what I am going to do still. I guess we will just have to wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Kaleb Starts School!

2009-01-12T09:43:00.001-08:00

Kaleb started shool at Keller Elementary on Monday January 5th. We talked about him going to school the whole Christmas break to try and prepare him. I took him on his first day which he was a little scared but he didn't cry and had a good time. The teacher was great with him and said that he did really good. The second day he got to ride the bus to school. Heather said that he was really excited and ran to the bus. They got him buckled in and she said bye to him and he got a little scared. The helper on the bus sat by him that day since it was his first time.

He is now really excited to ride the bus and go to school. He has come such a long way and we are really excited that he gets to go to the big boy school. I am less stressed now not having to worry about taking him to Therapy classes 3 times a week.

We are hoping that he will learn lots more sign language as well. His teacher signs to the whole class as she teaches and talks to the students.

Christmas!

2008-12-30T15:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas was fun this year. Kaleb got a trampoline which he really enjoys. Christmas morning he wouldn't jump on it cause it was wet. We tried but he kept saying its wet and wouln't get on.

All he really wanted for christmas was a ball. So he was really excited when santa brought him a ball. I think that little kids are funny cause they think all the presents they get are from santa.

McKensie really didn't know what was going on. She just wanted to play with the wrapping paper. She had fun and was really excited to see all the presents under the tree. She just kept pointing to them and didn't know quite what to do.

Thanksgiving!

2008-12-01T07:09:00.000-08:00

The night before Thanksgiving me & my mom were up until about 11:00 or so cooking pies, home made rolls, banana bread, etc. I love this time of year. I am always up for baking and trying out new receipies. Thanksgiving day was great. We woke up and cooked breakfast for everyone. We made Pumpkin Waffles, with some homemade buttermilk syrup, sausage, bacon, eggs. It was a feast. Of course we had to watch the parade which Kaleb enjoyed. Once everyone left and breakfast was cleaned up I started to get bored. I was just about to start in again and bake something else but my Kaleb wanted to go on a walk. We walked around the neighborhood which was great. The weather was really nice and he loves to be pushed around in the stroller waving at everyone that passes by. The big feast was at my Dad's house this year so we all headed over there around 1:30. We ate around 2:30. There was so much food that we all ate too much. McKensie ate to much we had to unbutton her pants so her belly wouldn't hang over anymore. We would say oh no I am so full and she would smile and raise her hands to touch her head it was really funny.

Here are the young kids sitting on the stairs. We got them to sit still for about a minute. They were a little crazy but that is nothing new.

After we ate and things were cleaned up we all headed over to Heather's to play games and talk about our shopping strategies for Black Friday. I love playing games and hangin out with everyone. The rest of the weekend we shopped and played games.

We hope everyone had just as good as time as we did! Happy Holidays everone!

McKensie's 1st Birthday

2008-12-01T06:47:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not McKensie turned 1 on November 18th. Time has gone by so fast. Of course Kaleb thinks that all the presents are his and here he is trying to steal her presents at her party.

We had a cupcake party. Here she is not quite sure what to do with the cake in front of her. Of course she just wanted to touch the burning candle so that is why it is out of arms reach.

Here she is tasting the cupcake and of course she loved it.

She was really excited and of course loves the sweets. We had a great time. Thanks to everyone for the great gifts. McKensie and Kaleb love them all.

Halloween!

2008-11-04T08:18:00.000-08:00

On Thursday night we carved the pumpkins. Kaleb and Dad had a great time scooping out all of the guts.

Kaleb was a dinosaur. He only lasted a few houses before we had to take the top part of his costume off. It was too hot and he was sweating.

McKensie got to ride in the wagon with her puple monster costume. She did really good and was happy riding around watching all of the people. We ended up taking off part of her costume as well. We walked around the whole neighborhood. I think that Kaleb's favorite houses were the ones that were passing out root beer!

Here is Kaleb with his loot from the night. He was so excited to have all this candy. Of course he got upset when we had to put it all away. I think he thought he was going to be able to eat all of it that night. We all had lots of fun and really enjoyed ourselves.

Halloween Carnivals!

2008-10-30T07:42:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday we went Trunk or Treating with grandma Darlene. The kids had a blast! McKensie really just wore her costume to look cute. Her aunt crystal decided to make some use of it and take her around to get some candy of her own. We just laughed at her and kept saying she was using our daughter. But you can't resist giving candy to suck a cute looking girl.

Jake was kind enough to take Kaleb on a train ride. Kaleb was a little scared at first but he really enjoyed it.

Jackson and Kaleb were getting ready to tick or treat. Don't they both look really cute! Of course Kaleb had no idea what was going on. He just knew he had to wear this funny outfit. Once we started going from trunk to trunk Kaleb got excited. I think the best part was that he really didn't care what everyone was passing out he just liked the idea of getting a piece of candy and putting it in his basket. He was so cute and said thank you every time. A few times he would just sign please because he couldn't say trick or treat. How cute is that!

Wednesday Night we had our neighborhood halloween block party which they do every year. I was a little excited this year because Kaleb was finally old enough he could play some games. He got to eat some junk food. (Cookies, Snow Cones, Popcorn) He was having fun just running around. I was excited when Kaleb let us draw a pumpkin on his face. He just smiled the entire time they were painting his face.

Of course we couldn't go without riding the train. This time I got to go with Kaleb on the ride. He was excited and waving at all of the people from the train.
Everyone had a great time and was really tired by the end of the night. I love the going to all the fun holiday activities. Even though I am really tired at the end of the day it is all worth it in the end. I love watching all of the kids have fun.

Offically Moved!!

2008-10-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

As of today we have offically sold our house. We are now living with my mom. We are happy and sad at the same time. There are too many mixed emotions in the house and we are excited to get a new start. We are planning on living with my mom for the next 1-2 years. Not sure what we are doing next but we will figure it out. Our new address is listed below.

Erickson Family
1514 E. Hilton
Mesa, AZ 85204

Pumpkin Patch!

2008-10-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

We went to the PUMPKIN PATCH on Tuesday with most of the family and cousins. Everyone had a great time.

Kaleb really enjoyed the animals. His cousin Haley helped him feed the sheep & cow.

We found out that McKensie does not like pumkins. She was scared of them the whole time. Anytime we tried to put her down she would cry. She didn't even want to be buy them.

Kaleb however really liked the pumpkins. He loves to take his picture and is more than willing to pose and say cheese.

As you can tell McKensie is crying again but Kaleb is having a blast.

It will be interesting to see how McKensie does on Halloween night with all the costumes.

Once it was dark we ate our picinic dinner at then went on a hay ride around the farm which everyone enjoyed.

McKensie's First OWIE!

2008-10-17T09:16:00.001-07:00

She loves to crawl around in Heather's backyard during the day and be with all the other kids. One of her favorite things to do is crawl up on their sprinkler box and sit. She would crawl up and just watch everyone and then cry when she was ready to get down.

Well this time she tried to venture out on her own and get down by herself. Of course she took a face plant and scrapped up her nose. That didn't stop her of course and she was right back to the box trying to get back on.

Don't you just love little kids how even when they get hurt that doesn't keep them from trying it again.

Krispy Kreme!

2008-10-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

We all love those freshly made Krispy Kreme donuts. Kaleb was really excited when we brought some home for him. He especially really enjoyed wearing the hat.

I have to say I only ate 1 donut. It was hard to resist.

Jeff Update!

2008-10-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

We received test results back and all the doctors could come up with is that he had a Gastric Infection in his stomache and intestines. How that can cause a seizure I am not sure. His CT Scan came back normal. We are still waiting on his EEG results but I am going to assume since his CT is normal so is his EEG. I think that this is the only thing the doctors could come up with.
Who knows we just hope nothing like this happens again.

You Think We have Had Enough!

2008-10-10T08:16:00.000-07:00

You would think that our family has been through enough and that we could get a brake. Are we being punished or is this gods way of continually testing are emotional strength.

Thursday morning was an early start for our family. I woke up at 4:00 am to a loud noisy and gagging. I jumped out of bed and found my husband (Jeff) sitting on the toilet having a seizure. As scary as that sounds he had thrown up and was choking on it. When I tried to call his name he was not responsive. I was just about ready to call 911 when he snaped out of it. I was able to lean him forward to throw up some more and clear his passage way. He wasn't quite sure what was happening. To cut is short I cleaned him up and got him back into bed. He said he felt better so I let him rest. I took him to the doctor and he said that it was due to food poisioning but that they are going to be doing some more testing to make sure. We have a CT & EEG scheduled to make sure that there isn't any brain problems. I will update once we have the test results. Pray that food poisioning was the problem and that it is not anything serious.

Jeff is feeling better and is getting lots of rest. Besides being really sore, there doesn't seem to be anything else wrong.

All I can say is that I have had enough with the emotional roller coaster that we are constantly having to deal with. Are we being punished for some reason? Why are we continually being tested. Have we not had enough already? Who knows but I have learned that nothing is impossible and that anything could happen. Make sure to love your family and friends everyday cause you never know what curves are going to be thrown your way.

AJ's B-Day Party

2008-10-06T08:31:00.001-07:00

We celebrated AJ's Party on Saturday at the park. Everyone had fun. Kaleb couldn't wait to get a piece of the cake.

Halloween Time!

2008-10-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

We were at my moms all day yesterday getting her house ready for us to move in. I was really excited to help her create some treats to BOO her neighbors. For those of you who don't know every year in their neighborhood they go around and boo people by leaving a treat on their door step. I was excited help her and make a few cute treats to share.

I was especially proud of my ghost cake. I think it turned out pretty good!

This cake was a little more tricky but turned out okay.

Katie's B-Day Dinner!

2008-10-06T07:58:00.000-07:00

We went to Mi Amiegos for Katies Birthday. Lots of people and lots of fun! It is always extra special when you get to wear a cute hat!

Growing Up!

2008-09-15T13:35:00.000-07:00

McKensie is growing up fast. This weekend she had all sorts of new foods. Scrambled eggs, toast, pancakes, dry cereal, and pizza crust all by herself. She was also able to drink out of a straw. I love this stage because they can feed themselves.

Hanging Out!!

2008-09-11T14:21:00.000-07:00

Kaleb Loves to wear hats even though it is his sisters. He does not seem to mind!

McKensie's First Hair Style. I was finally able to put her hair into a pony tail. How cute is she!
Kaleb loves bath time now that he can play with his little sister. McKensie likes it alot better than the kitchen sink.

Birthday Party!

2008-09-11T13:28:00.000-07:00

We just celebrated Jaxson & Gavin's Birthday Party. It is always fun when there is water envolved!

Camping Trip!!

2008-09-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

We had our annual family camping trip which was very cold & rainy this year. This was McKensie's first camping experience and I think that she rather enjoyed herself.

Kaleb & Jake were being helpful by collecting the firewood to try and keep us warm.

Haley & McKensie were hanging out while we tried to set up camp. Aren't they so CUTE!!

Illinois Trip

2008-09-11T12:56:00.000-07:00

We went to Illionis at the end of July. Very relaxing as we sat around outside all day and played with the kids. We had lots of fun. Went to an air show which was really hot but we had fun despite the weather! Here are a few pics.

The Kids got to spend some quality time with their Grandma Heckman.

CJ found time to make out with his newly found girl friend Barbie and got caught!!