A Peek at the Perkins

Win a FREE $25 Pampered Chef shopping spree

2011-04-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

I am SO GRATEFUL for each of my wonderful Pampered Chef customers and

I want to express my gratitude for you with a

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Good Luck!

PLUS

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As an added bonus, through April and May, get 10% off your order.

To order, click here to visit my website with Golden Ticket as your host. This will take you to the page to view our products. Order whatever you like and checkout. Discount will be deducted when I process all orders/payments at the end of each month. If you have any questions, just contact me by e-mail or phone. April orders of $60 or more get your choice of peeler for FREE.

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Join me for a Pampered Chef(R) Catalog Show

2011-03-08T22:21:00.001-08:00

Join me for a Pampered Chef(R) Catalog Show

All you need to do is click on the link below to browse through all the wonderful products The Pampered Chef has to offer.

All cooks, from amateur to gourmet can benefit from The Pampered Chef products. They make mealtime preparation easy!

Plus we have a monthly special for anyone who places an order through a show. Check it out!!

PAMPERED CHEF is giving away the NEW MANUAL FOOD PROCESSOR to the first consultants who submit their own show between Mar 10 and Mar 20.

AS AN INCENTIVE FOR YOU TO HELP ME WIN THIS, I WILL PAY SHIPPING COSTS FOR ALL ORDERS OVER $25 THROUGH TUES 3/15.

PLUS, I WILL GIVE AWAY THE FOOD PROCESSOR TO ONE OF THE PEOPLE WHO PLACES AN ORDER BY TUES.

PLACE YOUR ORDER OR CALL ME NOW!!!

NOTE: Please place your order prior to my Show closing date: Sun, Mar 20, 2011

Your Pampered Chef® Consultant
Amber Perkins
http://www.pamperedchef.biz/amberperkins

Orders Due:
Sun, Mar 20, 2011

Host:
Amber Perkins

Phone:
(702) 457-7588

E-mail:
tiggerific814@yahoo.com

Cafe Rio Giveaway

2011-03-04T22:57:00.000-08:00

YourGoldenTicketBlog is giving away 3 FREE meals (including drink) to Cafe Rio! Check out the blog and enter yourself to win.
Follow the blog and you will see a Pampered Chef gift certifcate giveaway in the near future!!

June 2010

2010-07-21T23:00:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn has such a gorgeous smile! She is such a happy baby. I do not know many babies that smile as much as she does. It must be having a big brother who is so funny around. Another of Carson's pictures. We may have a photographer on our hands...

I love my kiddos. They are just too stinking adorable. They make me smile.

And yes, they are in their PJs. When I do not have to go to work, we take it easy around the house. Granted we wake up between 5:30 and 6:30 most mornings. :(

Break out the blow up pool

2010-07-21T22:49:00.000-07:00

This summer we decided we wanted to teach Carson how to swim. He wears a life jacket and usually is stuck to myself or Eric while we are in the pool. Well, his lessons have been paying off. No longer does he floaton his back yelling "Help me! Help me!" He cannow roll over and swim all by himself. All with his life jacket on still. He and Karli were even jumping into the pool the other day. He is such a fish.With this look, you know trouble's not too far away.And thankfully, Brooklyn LOVES being outside. She will fuss after being in the bouncer in the living room if I am not right down with her. But set her outside and she will be content for an hour. Sometimes I set up her own little "cabana" at my moms when we go swimming. Umbrella up, towels hanging on the fence to block the sun, and a huge towel on the floor so she can lay down and relax.

Brooklyn's blessing & April 2010

2010-07-21T22:14:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn's blessing 4-25-10

She was blessed by her Daddy. I found out a few weeks later that one of the young women leaders had a goal tp recprd and transcribe all baby blessings. So we have a written record of her blessing. I am so thankful for that. My mom made her blessing gown, so beautiful.

In the circle were cousin Kayden Campbell, Uncle James Perkins, Daddy, Papa John Perkins, Uncle John Hansen, and (not pictured) Bishop Daren Stewart.With Papa Rich & Tutu Misty De La RosaWith Grandma Carolyn & Papa John PerkinsWith Uncle John, Aunt Nikki, and Cousins Leila & Karli HansenWith Uncle Danny De La Rosa

March 2010

2010-07-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn Nichole's Birthday

2010-07-21T00:03:00.001-07:00

Brooklyn was born March 21, 2010. She weighed 7 lbs, 13 oz; measyred 19 1/2 in long and was born at 3:19 pm.With Grandma & Papa Perkins With Tutu & Papa De La Rosa
Again, my mom's great photography work

Pregnancy pics (Feb 2010)

2010-07-20T23:29:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken by my mom.

I am back..

2010-07-20T22:18:00.000-07:00

...if only for a minute.
Once again, I have been gone for too long. So much has happened since January. Biggest thing of course was the birth of Brooklyn Nichole. (story to come in follow up post) She was blessed at church by her Daddy on April 25. My mom made her blessing gown.
I had 6 weeks maternity leave from work and have enjoyed being back at work. I am SO glad it is only 2 days a week. Enough time to get away and enjoy the time I have with the kids, and help bring in some money.
In case you didn't know, we have been living with Eric's parents since last March. About a month after Brooklyn was born, they moved up to Idaho and left us in charge of the house. I am so excited to have this huge house (4 bedroom, 2 bath, big backyard, clean garage for our cars) and we couldn't have gotten a better deal. We are so grateful that we are able to have this opportunity.
In May, the kids and I were in an accident in my little 97 Saturn coupe. We were on the way to meet my mom to drop off the kids so I could go to work. Just before I got on the freeway we were rear-ended. It totaled my car, luckily the kids were ok. I got whiplash, but am doing better now. The ordeal with the insurance company was crazy. When we were hit, I was pushed into the truck in front of me. It took 4 weeks for him to respond to the adjuster. So, because my car was totalled, I was only allowed 2 weeks of rental. AND I had to pay up front since they couldn't pay me anything without getting a hold of the truck driver. I finally received the last check for all rental reimbursement, car seat reimbursement (since you are not supposed to use car seats once they have been in accidents), and total car settlement (which ended up being a little more than we anticipated, yay). With this money we were able to buy a MINI-VAN from someone at church. 1998 Dodge Caravan. Yes, its a little old, but it works and gets me around town. Plus, its so much easier to put the kids/car seat into the minivan than it was to stick them in the backseat of the little coupe.
In June, we (Brooklyn, Carson and myself) took a trip out to California to visit friends and family and introduce them all to the newest grandkids: Leila, Austin and Brooklyn. It was great seeing everyone there. Not sure when the next time we will make it out to San Jose, so it was good getting out there now.
Pictures from the last few months will be mixed up in the next few posts.

A New Adventure

2010-01-24T22:51:00.000-08:00

I am thinking about becoming an instructor for Grocery Smarts coupon classes and want to get a feel for who would be interested in having classes. It would be a LOT less work than Pampered Chef and I could make more money than I am at the dentist office I am working at now, although I would do both for a while till I really got up and running with my classes. They now have booking gifts and host gifts and I am SO excited to start up. Just need to decide if its something I want to do before Brooklyn gets here or after she is born....

First OFFICIAL Pregnancy picture

2009-12-10T22:20:00.000-08:00

Taken November 16 (21 1/2 weeks)

2nd Birthdays!!

2009-11-18T23:37:00.000-08:00

The celebrations of his birthday were a blast.

We had friends over on Saturday for the bounce house, cake & ice cream. The bounce house

Look at the air he got!!!

He had some help from Daddy blowing out those candles!

Do you see that look, "Really? Do I have to?"After all the gifts were open.

Friends who celebrated with us:

Maria, Emily & Maddie Sackett

Carlee & Kaylee Hansen

Sean, Genie, Liz & Matt Brooks

Todd, Andrea, Avery & Kayden Garyson

Thank you all for coming and sharing this special day with us!!!

Then we had our (in-town) families over for cake & ice cream on Sunday.

Family in attendance:

Grandma & Papa Perkins

Aunt Belinda, Jessica, Stephanie, Kayden & Izaak

Uncle James, Aunt Renna, Michael & Sam, Kayla, Tim & Wesley

Papa & Tutu (Hawaiin for Grandma) De La Rosa & Danny

Aunt Nikki, Uncle John, Karli & Baby LeilaCarson got so close to the candles as he blew them out (ALL BY HIMSELF) that he ALMOST burnt his little nose.Bowling ball from Papa & TutuHe seemed to enojy this ribbon on his head a little more than the bow!! Super cute Elmo PJs from Aunt Belinda, Uncle Mark & Family

He got a LOT of cute outfits from friends & family along with a bowling ball game, books, and a puzzle. He was getting SO excited as he opened each of the gifts on Sunday. He would squeel as he pulled each item out of the bag or wrap it. I enjoyed it almost as much as he did.

Carson, we love you so much and are so proud of you and all you have accomplished. You are a great boy and bring so much joy and love into our life!!!

2 Year Check Up

2009-11-18T12:00:00.000-08:00

Carson had his 2 year well baby check up today. I am happy to announce that CONTRARY to popular belief, Carson IS gaining weight. He weight in at 25 lbs, 13 oz!! That is just over a pound more than he was 6 months ago, but he has been bumped up into the 20^th percentile (instead of 5% where he’s been for the rest of his life). He also was measured at 32 ½ inches (back down to 10%) with 48 ½ cm head circumference (25-50% - his normal).

Our baby really is growing. I am so excited. As I keep saying, good thing I am having another one soon enough!!!

Happy Birthday Carson!!!

2009-11-15T22:07:00.000-08:00

Well, it has officially been 2 years since Carson was born. I cannot believe how time flies. For as little as he actually is, he has gotten so big. When he was born we decided we would track his growing by taking pictures of him in Daddy's Carson Palmer jersey. Of course when he was first born, we just bought his own outfit.

1 Day Old

1 Year Old

2 Year Old

Some of the things Carson has done this past year to show how big he is:

- He is sleeping in a "BIG BOY" bed now. We have a 4-in-1 convertible crib where the front comes off and you can add a toddler rail. But we did not have the toddler rail and he just wasn't adjusting very well to it. Luckily, my mom had a toddler bed she gave us to use. Carson loved helping mommy put it together and loves going to bed in it. We've got the nighttime routine down pat: Bath (when needed), family prayers, book, juice/milk, music and then he rolls over and snuggles himself to sleep. I LOVE IT!!!- He just got a Little Tikes jungle gym with slide for his birthday from Grandma & Papa Perkins and Mommy & Daddy. He loves climbing on it and going down the slide.- His vocabulary is growing, a LOT. His favorite things to say: "I want that", "I want t'eat" (to eat, especially first thing in the morning). He asks for almost anything he wants to eat. He says "pease" and is still signing thank you. And he has been playing copycat with almost everything we say!!! Time to watch our mouths!! HAHAFirst Birthday CakeSecond Birthday Cake

- His favorite TV shows: Hi-5, Pat-Pat (Little Einsteins), Tooo ('Toodles' from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse), Ooh-Ooh (which could be Curious George or Tarzan) and Choo-choo (Thomas the Train)

He loves wearing everybody's shoes. If they are lying around, he gets them on.

- His favorite foods: "Sausj", "Ezz", "Cheese" (all for breakfast), "(r)ice", "Chi'n", "H'dog", beans, and milk (with or without chocolate) - which for some reason he calls "balk" while doing the sign for milk.

He just started climbing the rope ladder at the park this week. He loves being in the kitchen while we are cooking. He loves dancing and singing and his new favorite song is Book of Mormon Stories since we did it for FHE last week. He loves watching football and baseball on TV with all of us.

The past two years have been so fun, while challenging at times as well, but we could NOT imagine it or the rest of our lives without Carson. He was such a blessing to us when he joined our family and has continued to be one!!!

Carson we are so proud of you and the big boy you have turned into. I know you are excited to have your new little sister in 4 more months and you will be a GREAT big brother!! You are a great help to me and Daddy and a joy to all those who know you. We all LOVE you VERY much!!!! Happy Birthday!!!!!

Ultrasound results

2009-11-08T08:48:00.000-08:00

We went to the Doctor last Tuesday and had a great ultrasound. As some (or many) of you may know we are having our baby at home, as we did with Carson. We had such a great experience that we plan to have ALL our kids at home, unless there are medical necessities requiring a hospital birth. So this was only our second trip to a Doctor's office. We have been seeing our midwife, April Kermani on a regular basis and she is FABULOUS!! Dr Roberts is the obstetrician April works with (in Summerlin) and we were able to meet with him after the ultrasound. The tech did a great job. The baby was VERY uncooperative for quite a while. The baby stayed curled up in a ball/fetal position for most of the appointment. There were only a couple times when the baby would stretch out. At one point, the baby stretched out one leg and had the other bent like the baby was modeling or something. Very cute.
All in all the results showed that the baby is well and healthy!! The baby is growing just as the baby should. The baby has a great heartbeat and good organs. The tech did a VERY comprehensive exam to be sure that EVERYTHING looked good. Granted, since the baby was curled up for so long, the tech had to spend some extra time to get the baby into a position so that we could see what the gender was. As soon as the tech got the picture of the baby's legs on the screen, I saw it immediately. Or should I say, the lack of IT!!!
That's right, we are having a GIRL!!!! Little Brooklynn Nic(h)ole is going to be joining our family in March. We are so excited to have our little baby girl. Unfortunately, I can't get the scanner to work on our laptop, so I can't get the ultrasound pictures on here yet. But I am working on it. If nothing else, I will take them up to my mom's and get them scanned there.

Surprise Pictures...

2009-11-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

I know you have all been SUPER curious to find out what the surprise pictures were going to be. Well, without any further adieu, here they are (self-explanatory):

Before After

As you can see, Carson FINALLY got his first haircut. He will be 2 next Sunday (11/15) and he JUST got his FIRST haircut last week!! He was so good when it was being done. Our friend Marlo did it at her house. She did a GREAT job. Thanks Marlo. Carson loves it!!!

Ultrasound alert!!!

2009-11-01T21:59:00.000-08:00

No, it hasn't happened yet. We have our appoitment Tuesday at 1:40. Just wanted you all to be on alert. We should find out if she is a girl or boy. I am HOPING for a girl, Eric wants another boy. However, we will both be happy either way.

Also, new pictures will be posted Tuesday after the ultrasound. It should include ultrasound pictures as well as other surprise pictures.

Stay Tuned!!!

Halloween Fun

2009-11-01T21:33:00.001-08:00

My mom made Carson's Halloween costume. The monkey outfit was SO CUTE! But as you can see he was not so keen on the idea of wearing it. He made it through Trunk or Treat (Friday) and Trick-or-Treating with the body suit alone (after much bribery). He was still cute. Thanks mom for the ADORABLE costume.

My mom also made Karli's costume. Here they are together, Carson without his head and Karli without her wig. Aren't they adorable?!?!?

After Trunk-or-Treat Carson, Karli & Mom played on the floor, laughing hysterically!! It was so cute!!

We were a little late in carving our pumpkins (Friday and Saturday afternoons). I did this one for Carson and myself. He picked out the pattern.

So proud of our pumpkin!!! This is the one Eric chose to do. He did a GREAT job. I only wish the candle would have burned brighter inside.

We had chili for dinner one night and the next day for lunch, Carson had leftovers. This is his chili & "say-cheese" smile!!

Preparing for Halloween

2009-10-25T19:24:00.000-07:00

We went to Gilcrease Orchard on Saturday. We had never been, but wanted to buy our pumpkins there, and maybe some other FARM FRESH produce (no luck). It was pretty cool. You can walk (or drive) through the orchard and pick out your own pumpkins. Since we had not been there before, we did not know you could drive through (and they even had free car admission - usually $3 per car). Had we known we definitely would have taken the car, it was a long walk to the pumpkin patch. It was quite dirty, but enjoyable nonetheless. Luckily as soon as we started heading back to the entrance with our 2 pumpkins, we ran into my mom and sister who were just getting there. And they were smart enough to bring their van in. So we helped them find their pumpkins and hitched a ride back to the front.

Then my mom joined our car and we went across the street to check out another little farm/produce stand. It was really cool and Carson got a kick out of. They had animals (chickens, goats, rabbits, even pony rides). Unfortunately the Ponies were on break when we were there. Still, the other animals were Carson's favorite. They had farm fresh eggs, squash, honey, preserves, etc. However, it was QUITE expensive.

One dozen jumbo eggs = $7.50; SMALL jar of honey = $8.00

We did end up buying a butternut squash for $1.50/lb and a spaghetti squash for $1/lb. Eric's mom LOVES squash, so we decided this could be our way of supporting the local farm.

These are just a couple of the cool pictures my mom took. She is LOVING her photograohy hobby. And I get to reap the rewards of great pictures!!
The night before we went to the Springs Preserve with Mom, Dad, Danny, Nikki & her family. Carson wasn't too excited about getting all the candy, but when we went to play games, he LOVED throwing the balls. He even did a GREAT job at the Tic-Tac-Toe Toss. He bounced the first 2 balls in a row into the bottom row, but missed the third one. The booth operator was so amazed that a 2 year old was able to get 2 in a row. We had not yet gotten a costume for Carson, so he wasn't dressed up. My mom did have a full body (including hood) costume of a dalmatioon Danny had worn when he was younger, but Carson did not care for it. TOO HOT!! Instead we went to Wal-Mart afterward and got a monkey pattern for my mom to make the costume. She made Karli's costume as well. She loves being able to do stuff like that for her grandbabies. As soon as the costume gets done, I will post pictures. Probably won't be until after Trunk-or-treat and Halloween.

Family Update

2009-10-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

The last post was an update on whats been happening in our life, but now for our family updates!!

Eric: Still working for Cintas, The Uniform Company. He works late night/early mornings into the early afternoon sometimes. He recently found out that he is the ONLY Sanis Rep in his dept. So he has been working some longer hours (sometimes). He is tired a lot because of the hours. However, on the bright side: Cincinnati Bengals are 3-1!! We should be 4-0 but the Denver Broncos got a lucky break and won the game in the final seconds. Boo Broncos!!! The bad thing about our winning record, Eric is starting to believe that Bengals win when he stays home from church. When I was in Arizona he stayed home, and Bengals won. The week before he went to church and Broncos won, by a miracle. Then this weekend we were at home (General Conference - church on TV) and we won again!! Sports fans and their crazy superstitions! :D He celebrated his 30th birthday in July and claims he is "feeling his age," can't stay up late anymore (of course I blame this on his work schedule), tired/sore all the time... He's jumped back on the wagon doing his Jillian Micheal's work out video again. He has a goal and I fully intend to push him to reach it. Besides, I know he will help me reach mine after baby is born.

Amber: Working at the dentist office and loving it. The last couple weeks have been Wednesday only. Not too much money coming in, but I LOVE being home with Carson. Plus, it makes it easier on me when i am still tired from the pregnancy. We are now 16 weeks along. I am excited to start feeling the baby move sometime soon. Nausea is COMPLETELY gone, although it did help me eat as often as I should. Now I have to remember to snack on something during meals. Heartburn is mostly on the back burner, making life much easier. Eric's mom and I went to Kohl's and I got a couple CUTE maternity tops. Baby bump is not that big, but since I did not lose all the baby weight after Carson, it is all getting pushed upward, so I LOOK more pregnant than I am. Oh well. This baby does make me a bit more uncomfortable than I was with Carson, but not too bad. I still LOVE being pregnant! We will be finding out what we are having on Nov 3rd. I think I would be okay being surprised but Eric says we need one of each before we can be surprised. I will post the ultrasound (from 8 weeks) when I get it scanned.

I will be celebrating my 29th birthday this year. My last year of 20s. I have no issues with getting older, none that have presented themselves yet anyway. I do wish I had more kids by now, but life never quite works out the way you intend.

Carson: 2 years old on Nov 15. If I had to describe him in ONE phrase: Monkey See, Monkey Do!!! He is such a copycat. a) Last night we were getting ready to bless dinner and he saw Eric's mom sitting in her chair with her head in her hand. He put his hand on his head just like her. b) I was talking on the phone to my girlfriend and laughing hysterically. He runs out, grabs his phone and comes running back into his bedroom hand on forehand pretending to laugh as I was.
He is such a Money too. He climbs up on EVERYTHING!! He gets on the stools at the bar and now wants to eat his meals there. He climbs into Papa's seat whenever he sees him walking back and Papa sits on him and Carson gets a kick out of! He loves jumping on the couch, although he's not supposed to. He still loves his bath and food and music. He's got some of the dances from Hi-5 down and is TRYING to sing the songs. He doesn't have a HUGE vocabulary yet, but it continues to grow. He knows so many of the animal sounds. I recently went through his closet/drawers and FINALLY got rid of the 12/12-18 month size clothes. Yes, he still technically fit into them, but they were getting snug. If I want them to be able to be worn by other kids, I had to put them away.

We watched my niece's baby Izaak one day and Carson loved playing with him. He is bigger than most of the babies he has been holding lately, but loved it none the less.

I love when he puts himself too sleep, usually after a long day at church. Whether he falls asleep during/after lunch in his high chair, or falls asleep watching his video in the front room.

Well, I think this has been a long enough blog. Hope you finished reading and were not too bored. I would say I will try to be better at this, but I usually do and then I slack off again. So I will make no promises.

Busy 2 months

2009-10-08T08:54:00.000-07:00

Once again, it has been FOREVER!! The last 2 months have been PACKED full of fun and exciting things.

- First off, 2 days after my last post Nikki and her family welcomed little Leila Naomi Hansen into the world. She was born on my dad's birthday, 8/13/09, which was Nikki's due date. Leila may not have been ready to come out (a LOT of help and intervention brought her into the world) but Nikki was sure ready to have her. She was born 8/13/09 at 4:14pm. She weighed 7lbs. 1oz. and was 19.5in.

Hansen Family

Karli excited to see her baby sister out of Mommy's belly

Leila, Carson & Karli

- Sept 1st I was offered a part time job at a dentist's office. Dr Miner retired the end of June, and the office had been closed for July & August. Then the Dr's nephew, Dr Cherrington (recently graduated from school in Ohio), took over the practice. Before Dr Miner retired the office had only been open 2 days a week so we are trying to fill up the schedule once again. Until then my girlfriend works Tuesdays, I work full day Wednesday and if we have appts Mon and Thurs mornings. I play asst office manager, for lack of another title. The office is great. My co-workers are wonderful and my boss is super cool/laid back. Of course I am hoping for some more hours as the work picks up, but until then I enjoy being home with Carson as much as I am.

- Then, the day after my FIRST day of work, my grandfather, Gilbert De La Rosa, passed away. It was hard having to call my boss after only my first day of work, but he was VERY understanding and told me to take my time. Luckily, Mom, Danny, Nikki, her girls, Carson and I were able to drive out to say goodbye before he left us. Unfortunately, Alicia had already been having complications with her pregnancy and going in and out of labor, so she was not able to make it. It was WONDERFUL being with all of my family and friends for an entire week even under the circumstances. Most of my trips home are so short I do not get much time with them. The funeral however ended up being on my "Sister-in-law's" (Richie's girlfriend, Christina) birthday so I was sad we were not able to celebrate that. :( Sorry Auntie 'Stina.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

- Exactly ONE short week after Grandpa's funeral, Mom & Dad headed down to Arizona to help Alicia & Chris welcome Austin Lewis Summers into the world. Austin was born September 16 @ 10:31 PM. He weighed 7lbs 4oz (funny because the Drs said he was going to be big!) and 20.5 inches. Alicia was thankful has was 2 weeks and 3 days early! They had some struggles with him coming out and ended up having to be vacuumed a bit. But he made it healthy and happy. Nikki, the kids and I all drove down that weekend to meet our new nephew/cousin.

Summers Family

We stayed at the Arizona Grand Resort (where Alicia & Chris got married the year before) and had a blast at the water park!! Carson even fell asleep on one of our trips around the lazy river.

I know Mom & Dad thought it was great to be there with all the grandbabies!!

Too Long

2009-08-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

I know it has been FOREVER since I have posted a new blog. You would think not working I'd have more time to be on here, but instead I spend more time with Carson and running errands and such.

So what has been happening in our life the last month or so?? My sister Nikki is having the baby induced Thursday (if she doesn't go into labor before then). Alicia is still a month and half out from her due date. My parents also moved out here FOR GOOD. The house in San Jose has been sold and has finally closed. Dad will still be commuting for work. He will be staying with family the 2-4 days/week he will be in San Jose. It is great having them out here!!!

And the most EXCITING news?!?!?!? We are now expecting!! I found out we were pregnant Thursday, July 23 (5 weeks along). I have an appt to meet with a midwife this afternoon. I am so excited to have another home birth!! I also have my first Dr appt next Monday. Eric is worried that it might be twins... Again we had to go on Chlomid (hormones to get my eggs to release), and again the first dose got us pregnant. The reason(s) Eric believes it might be twins:
1. We used the hormones, which in itself raises the chances of multiples.
2. The ultra sound tech told me that both ovaries had follicles (where the egg is released), one at 16 and one at 17. She did not know which egg would be released first.
3. When I was ovulating I was extremely crampy, suggesting I MAY have released an egg from both ovaries.

I am assuming we will find out at our appt next week, if they do an ultra sound. I will be shocked if it is twins, and it will be a struggle, but I firmly believe that Heavenly Father won't give us any more than we can handle. He will give us a way to make everything work as long as we continue to do our parts.

As far as working for me... I technically have a job with Bell Photography. They take school pictures. I would be helping out with the reception table at the schools, taking kids money and giving them the camera cards. Easy work, but early hours which would be a struggle for babysitting, so I am still trying to decide what to do with that. I have also applied MULTIPLE times on Care.com for several nanny positions. I have met with one lady and have been corresponding with another. I really hope one of those work out because then I would not have to worry about babysitting and I would have Carson with me. Still, I have another opportunity at a dentist's office as office mgr/asst. My girlfriend Marlo currently works there and a new Dr is coming in so he will be needing more help. I will have to see what the details for this will be before I make any decisions.

Eric is doing well. He is getting tired of his job and the lack of respect from customers. He wants to get out of the "crappy" business he is in right now. We will have to see how the search goes. He really wants to go to culinary school. We will have to try to find scholarships for this since we don't have money.

Carson is growing. Right now his favorite video is Curious George and since he's still not speaking too much, he just makes monkey noises when he wants to watch it. It's really cute. He'll come in and "ask" for it. When we say yes, he will go in and turn on the TV and then the DVD. He's a very smart kid. His hair, although fair and thin, is growing. Eric will not let me cut it until his 2nd birthday. He claims he does not have enough for me to cut... WHATEVER.

I will be posting pictures and videos soon. But for now, I need to get Eric some lunch.

Mommy Necklaces!!

2009-07-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

I have recently found these wonderful Mommy Necklaces. They are beautiful and kid-proof. They are great to use as nursing necklaces and am VERY excited to get one of my own. My SIL is having a great Mommy Necklaces giveaway here. There are several ways to get an entry into the giveaway.

Bath Time Fun

2009-06-23T20:46:00.001-07:00

My lil' Turtle. Love those Baby Blues!!!! We have decided that Carson no longer has a bath tub, he has a WATERBED:

He loves hanging out and relaxing.

I was giving Carson a bath and had Eric bring me the camera. After he left, Carson was calling after him. He doesn't say Dada much right now, so I wanted to post this to remind Eric he had before.

Random Pictures

2009-06-22T21:31:00.000-07:00

TOO YOUNG FOR A SHOE FETISH? WHAT IF THEY ARE WOMEN'S SHOES?

Should we be worried?? He also likes wearing Papa's big sandals and his cousins roller skates.
(I just don't have pictures of either of these)

BATHING WITH THE BALLS Carson got all these balls with his ball pit for Christmas. They were out in the backyard so we needed to clean them all. When Carson saw them in the tub, he couldn't help but climb right in.

BIG BOY

Carson likes to think he is bigger than he actually is. Luckily, he still likes being in the high chair, but he LOVES being at the bar with his cousins or at the table with Mom & Dad. SO CUTE!!

SWIMMING

Carson doesn't care what he is (or is not) wearing, he LOVES being in the pool!

This is what happens when you do not have Little Swimmers!!

And he is just SUPER happy swimming like a little fish.

I have put up more pictures on my facebook. If you do not have an account, let me know and I will send you an invite to a snapfish album.

AWESOME ALBERTSONS SAVINGS!!!

2009-06-06T17:38:00.000-07:00

Friday May 22 Albertsons trip:

Specifics: (sale price in parenthesis)

Oscar Meyer Lunch Meat (3/$9.99): $1 off 2 (x2)

Kraft Singles (2/$5): $1 off 2 (x2)

When you purchase $10 of above, you get an immediate $3 savings.

Ken's Salad Dressing ($2.00): $.75 of 1 (x2)

Kraft BBQ Sauce ($1.00): $1 off 1 (x3). Yes, that means FREE!!!

Cool Whip ($.99): $1 off 2 (x1)

Skintimate Shave Gel ($1.50): $1 off 1 (x2)

Juicy Juice Immunity ($3.99): $1 off 1 (I wanted to try this for Carson)

Total Value of Product: $69.05

"Big Relief Price Cut" Savings: $6.40

Preferred Savings: $29.13

Coupons: $12.50

Total Savings: $48.03

That's a savings of 70%!!!

How bout that!?!?!

I LOVE ALBERTSONS SALES!!!!!!!

Great Shopping Trips!

2009-06-02T14:04:00.000-07:00

Over the last month, I have had some really great shopping trips!! I have been meaning to post specifics and just hasn't happened yet. So for here and now, I will at least give you the general idea.

Target 5/15:
2 Wheat Thins
2 Ritz
2 Triscuits
2 Aquafresh toothpaste
2 Kraft Salad Dressing
2 Kraft Velveeta Mac & Cheese
and something else I can't think of off the top of my head (which is why I NEED to post when it happens)

Original Sale price: 25.99 (sale prices)
Coupons: 16.28
I paid $9.71
Savings: 63%

Smiths 6/1:
2 Country Time Lemonade mix - sale price $.99
1 Keebler Sandies cookies - sale price $2.18
Specifics
Transaction #1: Lemonade Mixes ONLY. Coupon for $1.50 off 2 Country Time mixes + Buy two and get a $1 off your next purchase coupon printed. = $.48
Transaction #2: Cookies. Coupon for $1 off any ONE package, plus $1 coupon previously printed = $.18

Value of products purchase (B4 sale): 8.37
Coupons: 3.50
Sales: 4.21
Total I paid: $.66
Savings: 92%

Target 6/2:
10 Weight Watchers Smart Ones Dinners - sale price $1.80
4 Kashi Go Lean Waffles - sale price $1.79
1 Coppertone Sunblock - sale price &7.99
Specifics
Transaction #1: 10 Smart ones ONLY. Coupon for $4 off 10 + $5 Target gift card when you purchase 10.
Transaction #2: 4 Waffles & Sunblock. 4 Coupons for $1.50 off EACH waffle + $3 off Coppertone.

Original Sale price: 33.77
Coupons: $13 + $5 gift card
Total I paid: 15.77
Saving 47%

I also had one more amazing trip to Albertsons the other day. But I have a picture and receipts at home. So look for that great deal as well...

Flashback Friday

2009-05-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

Then & Now (well 2004)

I know I started Flashback Fridays and didn't follow through. But I have time now and Alicia had posted these pictures on facebook and I had to share them!!

We were all hams!! See a camera, strike a pose!

My sisters and I don't always have the best relationship but I want them BOTH to know how much I LOVE them. We may get on each other's nerves and sometimes say hurtful things at times, but I am so glad that we are able to get past it all.

With the two of them expecting little ones this year, it helps remind me how important family is. I am grateful to my sisters for the love and support they give to me. I am grateful that we are able to spend time together (longer & longer without fighting) and be sisters. I think of some of the crazy things we used to do when we were little and they just make me laugh.

Alicia & Nikki - I love you both and can not wait to spoil these new little ones bringing their joy into our lives. I pray our relationships will continue to grow and mature, and that we will one day be wonderful examples to our children of how sisters should act (lovingly).

- Love your Big Sis!!!

Don't Forget FREE Ice Cream Day Tomorrow!!

2009-05-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

Join us Saturday, May 30 at your local Walmart. 11am - 4pm (1 sample per customer while supplies last.)
Available items:
1.57 fl oz Dibs snack bag
2.4 fl oz Blue Bunny Aspen Frozen Yogurt Granola Bar
4 oz Ben & Jerry's flipped out Cup

2009-05-20T15:59:00.001-07:00

I will be planning party and would love for you to come celebrate with us. Send me an e-mail or leave a comment and I will be sure to get an invite out to you!

More Family Pics

2009-05-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

Just a warning: There are A LOT of pictures!!!

I am so pleased with the pictures Marilyn did for us at the temple. They came out great. I cannot decide which one I want on my desktop at work so I have been shuffling through a couple.

There are FAR too many to post them all, but here are some of the different poses I liked.

Carson has the funniest look on his face in this one!!

All Done!!

FREE ICE CREAM DAY!

2009-05-19T14:49:00.001-07:00

Join us Saturday, May 30 at you rlocal Walmart.
11am - 4pm 1 sample per customer while supplie slast. Available items: 1.57 fl oz Dibs snack bag, 2.4 fl oz Blue Bunny Aspen Frozen Yogurt Granola Bar, and 4 oz Ben & Jerry's flipped out Cup.
Click Here to find your local participating Walmart.

Free PF Chang's Lettuce Wrap

2009-05-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the chipping skills of PGA tour pro Briny Baird, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro will offer everyone in America a free order of the restaurant’s signature lettuce wraps with the purchase of an entrée.

Click here to enter your e-mail and get your FREE lettuce wrap.

Baird teed off this morning from 375 feet in the air atop the Omni Hotel and landed a golf ball inside a bulls-eye 230 yards below in the outfield of PETCO Park, home of the San Diego Padres. His accuracy was also celebrated with a $25,000 donation to the San Diego Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society.

Interesting Tidbit

2009-05-08T09:59:00.001-07:00

Emma is the top baby name for girls, Jacob for boys.

Emma ended Emily's 12-year reign as the No. 1 baby name for girls in 2008, the Social Security Administration announced Friday. Jacob was at the top for the 10th straight year

America The Song

2009-05-07T22:22:00.001-07:00

This song is sung by a girl Eric went to school with.

by Dustin James
This song was inspired by my first-time visit to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island in December 2008. http://www.Myspace.com/AmericaTheSong

"AMERICA": STORY BEHIND THE SONG
My wife and I had the opportunity to tour the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Museum during a visit to NYC in December 2008. The experience was incredible and among the most moving in recent memory. Millions of people, most having nothing, risking everything for a shot at a better life for themselves and their children. Seeing the weary faces and reading the individual stories of hardship and triumph was a great personal reminder of just how special my country really is.

I flew back to Nashville feeling deeply inspired and holding a renewed sense of gratefulness for my country and my freedom. After writing America and having it demod, it occurred to me that hearing it might provide others with the same feelings of hope, pride and gratitude Id experienced during my visit to Liberty and Ellis. I created this video and the MySpace page to share America with all of you.

This song contains no hidden political agenda. It does not scold the way we are or lament the way we were. It is but a simple tribute to a remarkable country by one deeply grateful citizen. God Bless America.

Dustin James

Free Strawberries at VONS!

2009-05-07T15:51:00.000-07:00

YUMMY STRAWBERRIES!!

I love produce coupons and the fact that you can get strawberries for free is even better!!! Vons has a free 1 lb carton coupon & $1 off 2 or 4 lbs carton on their website.

FREE GRILLED CHICKEN FROM KFC!!

2009-05-05T15:20:00.000-07:00

FREE 2 pc. KFC grilled chicken meal
(includes 2 sides and a biscuit)

Printable coupon at this link:
http://www.unthinkfc.com/

The site is currently allowing you to print 4 coupons!!!
Valid 5/5/09-5/19/09 excluding Mother's Day.

Coupon available for printing from 9am CDT 5/5/09 to 9:59pm CDT 5/6/09. Coupon is redeemable at participating KFC® locations in the U.S. from 5/5/09 to 5/19/09, excluding 5/10/09.

Carson Update

2009-04-29T13:20:00.000-07:00

Carson had his 18 month check up today. He got 4 shots which he did not like, but shortly passed out onthe way home.

Although he is small, he is growing just as he should. Here are his stats:

17 months, 2 weeks

Weight: 21-lbs 10-oz = 5%

Length: 30 3/4" = 15%

Head Circ: 47 1/2 cm = 40% (to hold in all those smarts!!)

Things he loves:

Music

Anything that makes noise

Food - green beans, broccoli, tomato, fruit, eggs, & cheese are only some of his favorites.

Running around in a diaper only (which he probably doesn't get to do as often as he would like)

Being Independent

He is very much a mommy's boy.

Rough Day at Church

2009-04-26T15:33:00.000-07:00

This is what nursery will do to a kid.

2nd week in a row - no problems! Caron stayed and played in nursery the entire 2 hours!

Family Pictures

2009-04-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

Our wonderful friendMarilyn Kelly offered to take some much needed Family pictures of us at the temple on Sunday. We had so much fun with the pictures and hanging out.

Carson was not terribly interested in posing for pictures. So he spent most of the time wandering around.

This is my favorite picture. Since Carson did not want to participate, we were going to take some pics of Eric & I lying on the grass. Carson is not one to share his Mommy, so when he saw us lying together he came over to try and break us up. This picture was taken at exactly the right moment before he shoved himself in between us. = )

Thanks again SO MUCH Marilyn. You are an awesome photographer!

Fun New Game

2009-04-22T19:19:00.000-07:00

Totally out of the blue, Carson started running back and forth saying, "Ready, GO!"

Too cute!!

Easter

2009-04-22T17:57:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to put up our picture from Easter, but I thought I had taken all the pics with my phone, and I do not have a way to get them to the computer yet. However, as I pulled the camera out to get a video of Carson's new game last night, I realized Eric had taken some pics with the camera.

We went to our friends Maria & Terry's Saturday for lunch and an egg hunt. Carson quickly caught onto the idea of finding the egg and putting it in the basket. They also have a trampoline he loved. It was heartbreaking trying to take him off.

(These are the pictures I took with my phone, so they will follow when I get my USB cord)

Sunday we woke up to find the little treats the Easter Bunny had left for Carson. Then we went to church and learned about the resurrection.

Afterwards, we went to my parents house. They were in town for the whole week and we loved spending so much time with them.

Carson even found the egg on top of the chair

Here is the basket he got from Easter Bunny (Papa and Tutu)

Look at all the eggs on the bottom of that table.

Sharing chocolate with Mommy

Carrying his own basket

We had a great time!!

Freebie website

2009-04-21T12:03:00.001-07:00

I have been having fun searching all of the couponing websites to find some great deals. I have been reading through the forums here, and found a few new blogs with great deals and even a freebie website. Check them out:

Saving Made Simple

Who Said Nothing In Life is Free

The Budgeteer

If I find more, I will add them as well!!!

Ben & Jerry's FREE Cone Day

2009-04-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today is the big day!
Yes, it's the annual Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day! Ben & Jerry's scoop shops around the world are offering free cones from noon to 8pm. No tricks. Just show up, choose your flavor, and enjoy a free cone.I know where we're going for dessert tonight!To find your Ben & Jerry's scoop shop, click here.

Flashback Friday

2009-04-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

I have recently joined the world of Facebook and in only 2 weeks (or less) I have found so many friends and family. I have even found people Inever thought I would see or talk to again. So, I have been thinking a lot about High School and the stupid things I did, stupid guys I dated and friends I have lost touch with. I have also been think a lot about the Almaden 3rd singles ward in San Jose, California. I had so much fun with people in that ward. Here are a few fun pictures of these times I have found on facebook:

I know I am not in either of these two pics, but they are some friends I hung out with from church. It was good finding them on Facebook.

Another Great Giveaway!

2009-04-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

I am loving all of these giveaways lately. At Perch you can find some adorable Shabby Apple Girl's Dresses. They are giving one away, so if you have a little girl in your life, you need to enter!! Hurry, you have to enter before midnight Wednesday 4/15. These dresses are so adorable.

Flashback friday

2009-04-10T10:34:00.001-07:00

I have noticed a couple of the blogs I follow do a Flashback friday and I thought it was a great idea. So here is my flashback.

EASTER 2008

Carson was only 4 months old. This is him with the Easter Bunny Grandma Perkins gave him.

He loved lying on the floor watching TV with Daddy.

We spent the rest of the day at my parents house in Vegas for BBQ & Egg Hunt.

Mommy & Carson catching some rays

Papa making him laugh. I caught this on video too.

Karli & Nikki and Alicia & Karli

Carson playing with his binky while i try on his booties my mom made for him.

Family Update

2009-04-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I have not yet posted about my sisters yet!?!?!
Nikki and John have been trying to conceive for quite some time and with the help of several wonderful doctors they are finally expecting their second daughter August 13th. That's my Dad's birthday.

Alicia got married back on Nov 1. She and new hubby Chris are expecting their first baby October 1st. That's my brother, Danny's birthday.

If you think these due dates on family birthdays is a coincidence, read on. When Eric and I met and were married, we learned several interesting facts about our families:
1. Eric's mom's side of the family and my Mom's side of the family followed the exact same migratory path across the United States.
2. Eric was born on my Mom's birthday.
3. My grandmother died the EXACT same day Eric' aunt Linda did.
4. My niece Karli was born on my brother Richie's birthday.
5. Carson was born on my brother-in-law, Chris' birthday.
6. My niece Ariana was born on Nikki's birthday.
7. Now both my sisters are due on 2 more birthdays.
I believe this is too many conincidences!!! Funny stuff!!

I am learning new things!!

2009-04-09T15:07:00.000-07:00

So, now that I have a bit more time in front of a computer, I have been able to update my blog a little more often (in case you couldn't tell). Well I am learning how to do different things and this is a test to try one of those things.
In my down time at work I like to browse blogs and play games. This is one of my new favorite games. This is my favorite blog to check up on.
Thanks for Emily for helping me out with this AWESOME tip!! And thanks to Michelle for the David after Dentist video help.

David After Dentist

2009-04-09T13:37:00.000-07:00

I saw this on my freind's blog and couldn't help but post it.
(

My Work Update

2009-04-07T14:32:00.001-07:00

So I realized yesterday that I never updated my blog with my new job. Let's see... Where did I leave off... Oh yes, I was starting at the deli. It has been a while. I worked at the deli for a couple weeks until I started making deliveries on my own. I was told once I began delivering, one of the other drivers would be let go, but that did not happen. All 3 of us were making deliveries which normally would not be a huge issue, but with the economy slowing down, so was our business. Tips from deliveries were not really enough to make up the difference in what I was making at the front counter. Nevertheless, I stuck to it.
Then one day towards the end of January I called a friend from one of the electrical companies BMC had worked with and asked if they were looking for part time help. Luckily for me, she was looking to cut back hours herself and could use an extra hand to cover phones in the afternoon. She told me she would talk to the guys and call me back. Literally, not more than 30 minutes later, she called me and asked me to come into work the next week. I worked things out between both my bosses and started working 2 jobs, both part-time.
EDC started picking up more and more jobs and Lorna (my boss) had made a comment one day about how she wishes I could be there to help more hours. So I jumped on it. (Since I was making the same pay I made at BMC, I could afford less hours and only driving to one job) I offered to come in around 12 or earlier instead of 1:30/2 like I had been after the deli. I even mentioned I could go FULL-TIME if she was interested (only after discussing this with Eric the previous week, of course). She agreed and I have been full-time (9am-5pm) since March 9th.
I LOVE MY JOB!!! I love the people I work with and I am very happy. Of course, it has been hard going back to full-time when I had been working part-time from June-December. But, liking my job has made it more bearable. And Carson does pretty good. Although, I have been pushing his bed time back a bit so I can have some fun with him after work & dinner. I don't think he minds.
So, that's about it. I am making money now, still doing Pampered Chef when I want, on my time, which is what I love most about the business. Plus I am always looking for new/more ways to save/make money.

I LOVE ALBERTSONS!!!

2009-04-07T13:22:00.000-07:00

So I heard through the grapevine that Albertsons was having an awesome sale on their POST cereal (select varieties). Each box is only $1.57. Yes, that's right, $1.57 each. (Boxes are normally $2.75-$5.69 or more) On top of that, for every 2 boxes you purchase, you get an immediate discount of $1.10. If you calculate that, it comes up to $1.02 a box!! But wait, THERE"S MORE...
When you buy 3 boxes, you get a $2 off your next shopping order coupon; 4 boxes = $3 oynso; 5 boxes (or more) = $5 OYNSO!!!
So this is how it all played out. Eric and I went to our Albertsons Friday night, but word had already spread. When we arrived there was only a small selection of 2 or 3 cereals. However, 2 of them were what we wanted. So we bought Shredded Wheat (for his mom) and Trail Mix (I had a printable coupon for $2.00 off).
Now let's work this out: 1.57+1.57 = 3.14 - 1.10 = 2.04 -2.00 = .04. YOU HEARD ME!!! I bought two boxes of cereal for a total of 4 cents!!!!!!!

The next day, Eric went to another Albertsons that had a bit larger of a selection a bought the following (each box retailing 3.99 - 5.69):
Honey Bunches of Oats
Trail Mix (another coupon - you can always print them twice)
Shredded Wheat
Raisin Bran
Blueberry Morning
And, 1 more I can't think of.

Working this out: 1.57 x 6 = 9.42 - (1.10 x 3) = 6.12 - 2.00 = 4.12 - 5.00 OYNSO = -$0.88
Did I work that out correctly?!?! Did I make 88 cents off that transaction?? Sure did. So if you take the .04 from Friday night, I technically purchased 8 boxes of cereal and made 84 cents.

If you like this deal, YOU'D BETTER HURRY!! Prices good through Tuesday, 4/7 only!! You can still get the $ OYNSO coupon through 4/19/09.
If you have any questions on how I did this, just ask. Or you can check out any of my favorite money saving websites listed off to the right.

Condo still Available

2009-03-27T15:23:00.001-07:00

Our wonderful condo is still in need of a loving tenant. If you know of anyone, please pass on the word.

1264 sq ft

2 Story

3 Bedroom

2.5 Bath

Attached 2 car garage

Big (Private) Backyard

Appliances Include: Full size Washer/Dryer, Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher, Microwave

HOA, Water, Sewer, Garbage included in rent

Extra Kitchen Cabinet Space

Under stair storage

DirecTV satellite already installed

ONLY $1,050/month

More Money Back

2009-03-24T11:13:00.000-07:00

So after re-reading Amanda's blog (thecouponclass.blogspot.com) about that diaper special @ Walgreens, I realized I can get another $3.50 back from going to Caregiversmarketplace.com. So really, I spent $25 and save $65, a 72% savings!!!
Come to my Coupon Class next Tuesday, March 31st, 7pm and you too can learn how to have these amazing shopping experiences!!!

We have MOVED!!!

2009-03-18T15:50:00.001-07:00

The last few weeks have been so crazy with packing/sorting/moving all on top of working (both of us full-time) jobs and taking care of Carson. He has been a real trooper throughout all of this lately. He knows something is up and I think now that we are in Grandma & Papa's house full-time he doesn't quite know what to thin of it. All he really knows is that Mom & Dad have been busy a lot and have not played with him as much as he would like.

However, with Eric working late night/early mornings, he has the afternoon to spend with him and I try to get in some time with him when I get home, before he goes to bed 2 hours later. Yesterday we even went to the park to go on the slides and climb on the jungle gym. Carson loved it and I am sure he enjoyed the one on one Mommy time. I know I did. It was good to have a break.

Yet, we still have piles of stuff at the condo. We are planning on getting over there tonight to go through everything one more time and sort what is going to storage and what goes to the garage sale. The step immediately after that will be moving the piles into the kitchen and garage so that we can clear the floors for the carpet cleaners coming on Friday.

Who knew this would be such a CRAZY hectic project??? Anyway, we are settled into Eric's parents'. Just in time for Jen & Aaron and the girls to come in this Sunday. That's right, for one ENTIRE week, there will be three families under one roof with 3 bedrooms and on office. What's more, there may even be a fourth... Laura and kids may be coming into town after visiting her dad in So Cal. So in one way I am kinda hoping that we won't have anybody into our condo until April 1st so we will have some extra room for people to stay in next week. We shall see.

Finally, it has been a while since I posted any adorable pictures of Carson, so here are a couple:

Carson trying to climb out of the bath tub, but it looks like he is stretching for exercises.

Carson and I went to San Jose a few months ago. While we ere there we got to visit my friend Jenny and her family. Carson even got to sit on the tire swing like a big boy!!!

I got this cute headband last year after St Patrick's day, so I thought I'd wear it this year. Well Carson got more use out of it than I did. Normally he doesn't like things on his head, but he let this one stay long enough for a picture. (The picture was taken with my phone so its not the best coloring, but still cute)

Come to my COUPON CLASS!!!

2009-03-13T09:45:00.000-07:00

So I have talked to some people about coupon shopping and it seems to be getting a really great response. I wanted to let you know of a few AWESOME deals we have gotten lately using this shopping method.

Walgreens 3/10/09:
What I purchased:
1-Gillette Fusion Gamer Razor
2-Red Baron Frozen Pizzas
2-bottles Nature Made Pre-Natal Vitamins
2-Lysol Disinfectant Wipes
1-Skintimate Shave Gel
2-(40ct) Huggies Gentle Care (Newborn)
1-(216ct) Huggies Natural Care wipes

(Sale) Price without coupons: $71.96
What I paid (after coupons): $33.65
That is a SAVINGS of $38.31 (53.2%)

Albertsons 2/21/09:
What I purchased:
3 - (6ct) Green Giant corn on cob (Reg $2.99ea = $8.97)
3 - Pillsbury Toaster Strudel (Reg $3.69ea = $11.07)
4 - Pillsbury Grand Biscuits (Reg $2.69ea = $10.76)
1 - Cascade Dishwasher Tablets (Reg $5.99)
1 - Beef Fajitas Diner package (Reg $10.70)
1 - Marinated Pork Chops (Reg $9.70)
3 - Go-gurts/Kids Yoplait (Reg $3.79ea = $11.37)
2 - Betty Crocker Brownie Mix (Reg $3.29ea = $6.58)
3 - General Mills Cereal (Reg $4.99ea = $14.77)
2 - Betty Crocker Box Potatoes (Reg $2.29ea = $4.58)

Price (before sales & coupons): $94.49
Sale Price: $55.56
What I paid (after coupons & sales): $30.17
That is a SAVINGS of $64.32 (68 %)

Smiths 2/28/09:
What I purchased:
2 - 2L Soda (Big K)
2 - Gallon Milk
4 – 8oz pkg lunch meat
3.94 lbs red grapes

Price (before sales & coupons): $26.96
What I paid (after sales): $12.67
That is a SAVINGS of $14.29 (53%)

If you would like to learn how to save money like this by coupon shopping, come to my Grocery Smarts class:
Tuesday, March 31 @ 7pm (munchies will be served)
My (in-laws) house: 2160 Falling Rain Drive
Call for directions: 325-3352

Anyone looking to RENT a Condo???

2009-02-25T15:27:00.000-08:00

As you know times are tough for everyone, and we are no excpetion. We are planning on moving back in with Eric's parents for at least a year to get back on top of things and save up some money.
Therefore, we are looking to rent out our condo.

It is 2 story, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, attached 2-car garage, approx 1250 sq ft, with a large (for a condo) private backyard.
We are asking $1200 a month, but may be able to negotiate.
Deposits: $250 (security/cleaning) plus first and last months rent.
Available: April 1st

If you know of anyone looking here in Vegas, please let us know ASAP. You can contact Eric or myself on either of our cells.

Out Little Guy is not so little anymore...

2009-02-20T08:09:00.000-08:00

Carson has always been his own independent person. Well, now he has shown us that he needs less and less of our help. Just the other day, he started opening up doors (we have the handles you just have to pull down to open). So much for keeping him contained...
Last week he climbed over the chair we have had in front of the staircase to keep him down.
He just wanted to be upstairs, whatever it was that was up there... Needless to say, we had to bring the baby gate back down to the bottom of the stairs.

He has also found one of his favorite things to do is spin. We were getting ready for the day Wednesday and he decided while I was doing my hair he would spin in front of our doorway (door closed). After his first stop, he bumped his head on the nightstand, then he spun again and bumped his head on the wall going into our bathroom. After one more spin, he fell back and bumped his head on the door. I couldn't help but laugh. He didn't hurt himself just started laughing. And of course, being the kind of parents we are, we encourage him in the goofy things he does...

Misc pictures

2009-01-21T17:25:00.000-08:00

After eating Raviolis, look at that mess!!

My cute little Santa's helper

In Daddy's Carson Palmer jersey

Helping with laundry

We made a fort/tunnel out of the couch, its cushions, and the Bengals blanket.

Never too late for christmas

2009-01-21T16:57:00.000-08:00

So, once again it has been forever since I have blogged. Not a lot has happened, but I do have a lot of pictures I wanted to post. So here are a few:

Eric got MarioKart for the Wii from my parents for Christmas and we love playing it. Eric has mastered all the rounds and I have mastered 3 of the 4 levels. As you can see we play a lot, probably too much, but hey, its fun!!!

Carson watches Mommy & Daddy play so often, he wants to play also.
Playing Mario Kart with Daddy. Anytime we play, he grabs his train and sits on it and holds his steering wheel in the left turn position. It is VERY cute!!!

For Christmas, Santa brought Carson a huge dinsosaur tunnel thing. You can barely see his feet going into one of the dinos leg's (on bottom).He loves crawling through it. Isn't he the cutest thing in the world!!!!

Grandma and Papa Perkins bought him a ball pit and his cousin Mackenzie bought him a package of 175 balls for the pit. He loves playing in this also. He has learned to dive in through the window and throw balls at us through the windows as well.

Santa was nice to us as well. I got a few movies I was wanting (especially, Dr Suess' How The Grinch Stole Christmas-live version). My brother-in-law, Mark bought me a very nice winter coat. It is so cozy and warm. Another brother-in-law, John, bought me a Pampered Chef Deep Covered Baker I have been wanting to purchase since I started selling pampered chef, but have never had the money to get it. Eric got some fishing stuff, a queen size air mattress for camping/fishing as well as a few movies. Carson also got a lot of books and toys from Papa and Tutu, Aunt Marylou & Uncle Steve, Great Grandpa De La Rosa & Anna. He was spoiled, as usual!!!

Sean B - Spice Up Your Life

2008-12-18T23:54:00.001-08:00

This video was taken months ago, but forgotten on our camera. I found it tonight and had to post it. This is our best friend Sean and his sister Kristina. There was more dance, but this was all I caught on tape.
All I have to say is WOW!!!

Snow in Vegas

2008-12-17T17:32:00.001-08:00

Monday it snowed on the North West side of town (where Nikki lives) but nothing came down to our side of town. Well, today that all changed. Snow was falling all over town. At work, I got out into it as soon as I could to dance around in it. When I left work I had to scrape my windshield because they were covered in snow/ice. Erics parents got some great pictures with us & Carson in her backyard. I will have to get the pics from her soon. Here are some pictures:

Our backyard winter wonderland:
Our cars after driving home:

Calling all Pampered Chefs

2008-12-15T22:36:00.000-08:00

To help kick off my 2009 and get me started on earning my Disneyworld trip, I will be putting together what they call a $1,000 catalog show. I round up 10 past hosts (or anyone else who is interested) and they each collect a meezly $100 in orders.

When all 10 'hosts' collect at least $100 in orders, they will be able to get at least $25 in free product, 25-30% off the remainder of their order, FREE shipping and a chance at one of 4 half-priced items.

Since a typical show does not qualify for free product until $150 for kitchen shows and $200 for catalog shows, this is an easy way to get more benefits for 1/2 the work. Its a bonus for everyone!!!

If this is something you would be interested in, please let me know and I will set you up with a show online. Direct your friends and family to place orders on my website and they can have their orders shipped directly to them if they want. You can start collecting orders now (or as soon as you get catalogs). As soon as $1,000 in orders is collected I will submit the show. If there are more people who want to place orders still, I will do another show. If you have any questions or do not know my website, please contact me.

Thanks to all of my wonderful hosts and clients!!!

A lot has happened in the last month

2008-12-15T22:08:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I have been meaning to get on here and do a blog for a while now, but just haven't gotten around to it yet. So, until I can do the one I want, I will settle for what I can do right now...

In the last month:
Carson turned 1 on Nov 15th.

Thanksgiving - We were able to celebrate thanksgiving with both our families. We went to my parents in the morning and had lunch/dinner around 230. the one thing I missed about not being with Erics family is we all go around the table and say three thing we are thankful for. This years, those 3 things would have been my beautifuk baby boy, my loving and caring husband, and our jobs that help keep food on the table and aroof over our heads. Then we went to Erics parents for dessert and fun afterwards. his brother Greg and his family (from Elko) and his sister Jen and her family (from Idaho) were all in town. so the entire family (minue Johnny, Laura, Q & M) were able to get together and hang out. It wa slots of fun and I had a LOT of pie!!!
My birthday - Dec 2nd I turned 28. No big deal, closer to thirty, but oddly enough I am not scared of it like most women are. maybe I am just not close enough yet... My actually birthday was not all that much. I worked, then I taught a lesson at enrichment for church along with helping to set up. I did get several phone calls and happy wishes from friends and family who obviously care enough to remember my birthday. (Not that you do not care if you did not call or forgot my birthday, but...) The day after however, was a birthday celebration. After work I went straight to the salon/spa and got a facial and haircut (which I love by the way), then I came home to a wonderful candelit dinner from my husband! He made my favorite Pampered Chef recipe, Chile Relleno Chicken. It was very romantic. He even set up our Christmas tree which I had been planning on doing since the day after thanksgiving.

That Friday (yes 3 days after my birthday) - I lost my job. No need to go into details, but I ended up unemployed.

That weekend we (Nikki, John & Karli; Eric, Carson and myself) all drove out to San Jose for the De La Rosa family Christmas party. I do not think I have been able to make it out to one since I have been married, so it was wonderful to see everyone. The drive out was not bad, but the drive home seemed to take forever (although it was the same time)

Now I help my old boss (from Black Angus) at his Deli working the front counter and will soon be driving deliveries. Today was my first day and I made a few tips and went out on one delivery. It is not a permanent solution, but it is some money coming in right now.

Pampered Chef - I am going to be focusing really hard on Pampered Chef now. Next years incentie trip is Disneyworld and I know Carson would have a blast if we earned the trip (it would be June of 2010). So if you want to help, or know of someone who would read my Pampered chef blog...

So all in all, it has been a crazy hectic month. Life is treating us fair. We must be doing something right, because our Father in Heaven always blesses us with just what we need. We are ever so thankful for all that we have.

Twilight, The Movie

2008-11-24T10:11:00.000-08:00

Eric and I went to see the movie on Saturday morning. We did not have high expectations, as most movies from books are not as good as the books are. This is the first time I have actually read a book before I had seen the movie, so I knew it would be difficult for me as I have already mapped out what my movie would be like. I have to say that I was entertained. Of course there were some things that were changed, things that were added and things that were taken out, but all in all it was a good movie! I am even going to see it again Wednesday with some friends from church.
Looking online, I noticed that the movie made aw hopping $70 something million dollars at the box office and I found that Summit Entertainment, which released "Twilight," announced during the weekend that it's going ahead with production of "New Moon," based on the second book in Meyer's internationally best-selling series. Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart will return as its star-crossed lovers, but whether Hardwicke (director) will be at the helm again is still being determined. I am so excited and can not wait to see the rest of the movies as they unfold.

Carson's 1st Birthday

2008-11-23T22:29:00.000-08:00

We had a great little party at the park on Carson's birthday last weekend. We had such a blast and know that all the kids did too. We hope our family and friends had fun as well. We got to see a few friends we have not seen in a long time and it was good catching up. My parents were not expected to come in from California, but surprised us all by showing up. Carson got a lot of great gifts we are very thankful for; even the noisy, musical ones. At least most of them have off switches.
Here is a montage my mom did of the events. We are going to get his one year pictures done tomorrow (hopefully). so we have better pictures to add.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Twilight Saga

2008-11-10T11:53:00.001-08:00

After an all consuming month and a half, Eric and I have finally completed reading the Twilight saga. It was a fun and exciting collection to read. There are four books in the collection, Twilght, New Moon, Eclipse and Breaking Dawn. You can get them at the library if you prefer borrowing instead of purchasing and they even have electonic check out so you can download a copy to read on your computer. We are both excited to see the movie, although I know I am a bit MORE excited than he is. If anyone has not heard of Twilight or has not yet read the books, even if you are not a reader, I DEFINITELY recommend reading them. Although, I would also warn you that they are very consuming. I have not gotten much else done during this time as I spent A LOT of my free time reading, which is better than watching TV, but nonetheless, they are easy to get lost in. And do not forget the movie comes out Nov 21!!!!

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

Well we decided to begin our Halloween celebration early by attending the Holywood Rec Center Spooktacular event. Carson played some games including hockey, golf and fishing. he even got his very first tattoo. He had fun and we can't wait until Friday night when we get to trick or treat. I think he will really enjoy it!!!

Addictions

2008-10-14T21:34:00.000-07:00

I have been making fun of the people who have been staying up all hours of the night reading these "Twilight" books. Well, it has come back to bite me in the butt. I just finished reading the first book in just over a week or two. I only picked it up because my sister (after being introduced by her beehive class in church), mother-in-law (introduced by her grand-daughter) and even husband had started reading it. I read through the first few pages, only to see what the fuss was about. Not much in the first few pages I read, but I figured there had to be something special about it, so I continued. In the following days, Eric, his mom and I all shared one copy of the book taking turns reading. I will not do that again. It stinks when you want to read and you do not have it available. All weekend, I spent late hours up reading the book. I finally finished it this afternoon and now cannot wait to read the second one. Fortunately, the Las Vegas Clark COunty District Library has electronic versiona avaiable for download online. So I can read whether I have a book on me or not.
Needless to say, I am counting down till th emovie comes out. It will be my early birthday gift. And probably the first movie we go to see without Carson...

Long Time again...

2008-09-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

Finally, here is a picture of Carson with Papa and Tutu (Hawaiian for Grandma)

Well, once again it has been quite awhile since I have blogged. Things have been busy lately. Eric is working Graveyards at Cintas and watching Carson while I am at work. Carson has been walking now for about a month. That's right, he is only 10 months old and walking.

He gets into everything now. It is a full time job just watching him to be sure he doesn't get into anything he is not supposed to. As I type, he is pulling down all the books on the shelf of our entertainment unit. I know I should not let him do it, and Eric would kill me if he knew I was letting him, but it just seems funny and he is just exploring. So I let him...

We are getting ready for our busiest season of the year. Starting Oct 11, our niece Stephanie is getting married. Nov 1, my sister Alicia is getting married in Arizona. The following week is my 10 year high school reunion. Unfortunately, due to financial burdens, we will not be able to attend, unless I win a lot of money real quick. The next weekend, Nov 15, is Carson's first birthday. We will be having a small party to celebrate. not sure about the details yet, but will get info out soon. Then comes Thanksgiving, my birthday, family members birthdays, another wedding (my boss' daughter). Then comes Christmas and New Years.

He really is a VERY happy boy. How'd we get so lucky?!?

For Carson's birthday, I made the invitations myself. There is a VERY fun kids show on TV early mornings called Hi-5. It is a group of 5 people who do skits and sing songs. You can see the link off to the right. So i made the invites out of the Hi-5 hand. I am very proud of myself for being so crafty.

So handsome and ready for church!!

Carson got this gumball machine from Uncle Greg and Aunt Toni on our way home from Idaho and he loves it. He is so coordinated!! I am so proud of all he does and all he has accomplished so far!!!!

Giants vs Dodgers

2008-08-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

Growing up in San Jose, near San Francisco, I grew up liking the Giants becuase my dad was a fan and they were close. I was not really into sports, but I enjoyed a game or two. Well, I married a Dodger fan and was almost kicked out of my family for marrying the enemy, HAHA. Well, as Eric is a GINORMOUS sports fan (to say the least) I learned to enjoy sports as he does (not as much, but more than I did before). And since he was the one who got me more into sports, I learned to become a Dodger fan. Then I really was kicked out by my family J/K. It has now become a yearly tradition to go to a Dodgers/Giants game when they are in San Francisco, either in July (Mom and Eric's birthday) or August (Dad's birthday). 2 weekends ago was Carson's first trip to a major league stadium. We had a blast.
It was the 3 of us

Mom, Dad, & Danny (I REALLY need to remember toget pictures of my parents with Carson!!!- Sorry Mom & Dad)
My brother Rich & his girflriend Christinaas well as some friends from Colorado, Mandi & Carlos and their son Isaak.

Unfortunately, for the first time out of the 4 games we have gone to, the Giants beat the Dodgers
=(

Crawling

2008-08-18T22:21:00.001-07:00

So Carson has been crawling for a while now, but I never did get the video on here. So here are a few:

Here is a funny video of Eric and I just being mean...

Carson's First Baseball Game

2008-07-21T21:47:00.000-07:00

My boss gave me some tickets to the Las Vegas 51s Baseball games. The first game, June 18, I took Danny with us (since Eric was in Oregon). Danny took some fun pictures of Carson. Isn't he cute!!

Finally crawling

2008-07-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

June 9th, Carson just about had the crawling thing down. He was at least getting around nice and quick.

As soon as he got crawling down pat (unfortunately, I just realized I do not have a video of that) I caught him trying to climb the stairs.

Once Eric got home we decided to try to coax him up the stairs. But he didn't quite get there.

Swimming

2008-07-21T21:21:00.000-07:00

We introduced Carson to the pool at Papa & Tutu's. He loved swimming and playing basketball with Daddy as you can see.

He loves his bath and the pool is just like a big bath tub to Carson. The only problem is now he thinks he can spalsh big in the tub too...

Fourth of July

2008-07-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

We spent 4th of July up in Idaho with Jenn & Aaron and girls. It was a long drive up there, Carson does not like traveling, especially on long drives. I don't blame him after the last 2 drives he had been on (one from San Jose, CA to Vegas - 11 1/2 hours and the other from Vancouver, WA to Vegas - 7 hours each day 2 days). Vegas to Idaho drive was about 11 hours.

Here is Carson with Grandma and Papa Perkins.

Mackenzie & Lela taking a break from the fireworks next door. Kenzie hated the noise and kept running into the house.

Our happy little family!!

Daddy & Carson watching the fireworks. Aren't they cute!!

Jenn & Annalise enjoying her 1st Fourth of July

It's been forever!!

2008-07-20T22:04:00.000-07:00

I know it has been almost 2 months since I blogged. I will put videos and pictures up sometime this week, I hope!!

As for now, here is a quck update: Eric is back home from Oregon. Yay, he's home. Boo, it didn't work out in Oregon. Carson and I are very happy to have him home.
He applied and interviewed with Cintas and should be officially hired this week. We are looking forward to it.

Carson: He is 8 months now and has been steadily crawling for a month and a half. He also started pulling himself up on everything and walking along furniture. He has also tried climbing up the stairs, luckily not getting further than the first step, but I am sure it won't be long. As I said, I will get pictures and videos up very soon.

Amber: I am now down to part-time at work. 9am-2pm. Sometimes I do not feel like I do much of anything. I get in at 9, check the email. Next thing i know its time to go downstairs to cover the front desk while our receptionist goes to lunch. When she gets back I "go into the conference room" (thats code for pumping) Next thing I know its time to go home. But, as long as I am getting paid, thats all that matters right. I am looking into several different work from home opportunities. We will see how those pan out.

More to come when its not time for bed.

Memorial Weekend

2008-06-01T21:58:00.001-07:00

Carson and I went to visit Eric for Memorial Weekend and had a blast. We were able to visit with his brother Johnny, Laura, Quentin and Morghan.Two subjects is easy. Three on the other hand... I tried 10 different times to get a picture of Quentin, Morghan and Carson all looking at the camera. After all was said and done, this was the cutest of them all.Carson passed out on the way home wearing his new beenie from Aunt Laura. He was too cute, I had to get a picture of him.

Eating

2008-06-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

I have fed many babies before and never have I come across this feeding style... Leave it to my kid to be unique.

Learning to Crawl

2008-05-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

Step 2: Reach and pull yourself forward

Learning to Crawl

2008-05-06T21:49:00.000-07:00

Step One - get on your hands and knees

On his way to Mobility

2008-05-04T13:24:00.000-07:00

Carson has been more and more mobile. As previously stated, he has been rolling around like crazy. Over the last few days, he has also been propping himself up on his hands and knees. He is not moving, much...Only frontward lunges.He falls on his face and is not too happy about it. It does mean he is on his way though.
Push Ups
On His Knees

Carson Sits Up

2008-05-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

After returning from our Oregon trip, Carson has gotten stronger and stronger. He is rolling all over the floor and he is now sitting up. Almost completely stable, but he's getting so big!!!
This is just proof that he does NOT always sleep.

Oregon Trip

2008-05-01T22:08:00.000-07:00

This last weekend we drove up to Oregon to drop Eric off. Let me tell you: babies do not like being stuck in a carseat for 6 1/2 hours/day 3 days in a row. The drive wasn't too bad, just long. We were able to see Rebekah & Brandon in Salt Lake, and Jenn, Kenzie & Lela in Nampa. It was great seeing them.
When we got to Oregon (technically Vancouver, WA) Carson was SO excited to be out of the carseat he chatted up the front desk girl at the hotel. It was VERY cute!! We were also able to stop by the Portland temple. Carson's first temple trip and of course he slept throughit as always. Here are a few pics

Carson Rolls Over

2008-04-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

Carson has rolled over about a total of 4 times in the last month or so, but tonight, he's gotten the hang of it. My little guy is growing so fast. From here on out, it only goes by quicker.

Easter

2008-03-24T19:33:00.000-07:00

Carson's first Easter was Karli's 2nd birthday. We had a great time Papa and Tutu, Aunt Nikki, Uncle John, and Aunt Alicia. Carson even got to hunt for Easter eggs.

New Opportunities

2008-03-17T15:38:00.000-07:00

So, Eric is going to Oregon for the Summer...

We learned about an opportunity that sparked our interest from my brother-in-law. It is door to door sales of security alarm systems for Stone Alarm. It is a seasonal thing from May 1 to the middle of August. There are several cities where Stone Alarm systems are sold and 2 choices we were interested in were Portland, OR and San Jose, CA. As most of my family lives in/near San Jose, we thought that would be an easy decision. However, after much prayer and thought, we felt Heavenly Father was guiding us toward Oregon for some reason.

The deal: Eric leaves the last weekend in April. Carson and I are driving up with him and then flying home. He will be put up in a fully furnished apartment with 2 other roommates. Only out of pocket cost (other than normal everyday necessities like food and clothes) is $50 a month for utilities. The job is fully commission-based, but last year the average for first-year salesman was approx $30,000. Can you believe that?? That is almost what I make in a year and now Eric will be able to make that and possibly more, in just 4 short months. He works Tuesday through Saturday and every other Monday. We will be trading off visiting each other 2 weekends a month. He'll fly out here one weekend, we'll fly out there one weekend and we will also fly out to San Jose one weekend a month to visit my family.

After the first month, if things are going well with his sales, I will be cutting back to part-time at my job. This will enable me to spend more time at home with Carson and not have to stress about finding babysitters. AND, if things go REALLY well, I may even be able to quit my job. Keep your fingers crossed!!! So that's the deal right now. We are very excited!!!

And of course, I can not post a blog without a picture. So...

Happy St Patrick's Day from my Lucky Charm!!!

New Pics with Cousin Karli

2008-03-05T14:26:00.000-08:00

We went to get pictures taken at JC Penney. It was not a very good day. First I had to wake Carson up to give him a bath before we left for pictures. Then he fell asleep in the car on the way to the mall and I had to wake him once again when we arrived to feed him. He was not very happy and cried for quite awhile, as you can see in some of these pictures.

However, for as sad as he was, we got some GREAT pictures.

Karli had also just woken up when she joined the pictures.

BEST BUDS

2008-02-10T18:30:00.000-08:00

Carson is the smaller one.
Matthew David was born October 1 and Carson Thurman was born November 15. They are best buds.

Christmas 2007

2008-02-09T21:01:00.000-08:00

For Christmas we were able to go out to California and spend time with my side of the family and some friends. We had a great time.

Sorry Nikki and Alicia, we did not get pictures of you with Carson.
We got to go to the San Francisco Zoo (Three days before the tiger attacked) and Carson got his first carousel ride.

We also got to go to the San Francisco 49ers s Cincinnati Bengals Football game. We got 50 yard line tickets from my friend Dana. Only 10 rows from the field. We forgot our camera, so we did not get pictures of Carson, but here is a picture from our seats.

TUMMY TIME & SMILES

2008-02-07T21:43:00.001-08:00

How quick they grow

2008-02-06T21:23:00.000-08:00

Carson swimming in his first Bengals outfit the day he was born (Nov 15)

Carson fitting into his Bengals outfit February 1st, 2-1/2 months.

Play Time

2008-01-29T20:02:00.001-08:00

Carson's Blessing

2008-01-20T13:26:00.000-08:00

Carson was blessed Sunday January 6 by his father Eric. Included in the circle were (clockwise from Carson) Daddy, Grandpa John, Uncle Mark, Uncle Brandon, Uncle John, and Uncle James. Gavan and Casey were also in the circle but are not pictured. Tutu made his suit for him. Isn't he adorable?!?!?