Carson Hopkins

2011-02-05T12:26:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Boise

Christmas was spent in Boise this year. We had fun spending time with family. The kids played their little hearts out! We were unfortunate enough to catch the stomach flu along the way. One by one, each day of our vacation, someone caught this 24-48 bug, starting with Mike and ending with Allie.

Christmas morning, opening presents and the kids playing with their new toys.

Christmas Eve: preparing treats and a letter for Santa.

Sugar Cookies! Tradition to make and frost sugar cookies. It's an annual competition!

Chip, remember me? It's Carson!

Carson could hardly wait to get on the airplane! He asks to go to the airport almost every day!

My little Carson made me this little angel, which is glued to a clothespin. So cute! First home made Christmas present and I LOVE it!

Mom making Carson and Allie pose in front of the Christmas tree=)

Usually mom does all the decorating for Christmas but this year, everyone wanted to help! Mike put on the lights, Allie tried to eat the lights and Carson helped put on all the decorations.

Yakima Fruit market has the best trees! Carson found us a keeper!

Spent Thanksgiving in Yakima. We took the kids to see the Elk but unfortunately, it wasn't feeding time. There were hundreds of the big guys, just too far away for the kids to notice.

Tradition in Yakima is to make gingerbread houses. Brings out the creativity in everyone. Allie chills on the couch.

2010-11-23T20:06:00.000-08:00

Yay, for SNOW!

Mid-November and Carson and Allie both had fun playing in the snow. It was so fun to see the kids enjoy the little red sleigh. Carson had to try to pull Allie and he did a pretty good job!

Two little snow buddies!

Carson trying out his new snow shovel. Now the boys can shovel snow together!

Popcorn night!

Making popcorn has become a night time ritual at the Hopkins home. Carson loves to put on the butter and salt, yum!

October means Halloween time!

We had a fun Halloween with Mike's parents and a night of fun for the kids at the Pierre's home. After dinner and snacks, the kids set off for trick-or-treating.

Carson is the dragon and Allie the ladybug.

Grandma Hopkins and the scary dragon=)

Allie sporting her cute little witch outfit. Shake it!

Carson loves to cook.

In the spirit of Halloween, we made candied apples, pumpkin bread and sugar cookies!

Carving Pumpkins

We all had fun carving pumpkins. Allie wanted to put her hands in the pumpkins, just like Carson!

Going to the Pumpkin Patch

We ventured out on a rainy day to find our perfect pumpkins. This neat little farm gives hay rides and provides all the essentials: pumpkins, kettle corn and corn on the cob!

My cute little pumpkins!

Allie loves dress up!

PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE!

My little boy is growing up! It was Carson's first preschool open house. The school house is close to our house, so we decided to take the wagon.

I think Allie enjoys visiting the school just as much as Carson!

I DON'T WANT MY HAIR CUT!

Carson's famous words every time he is due for a trim. Nothing can change his mind. No cookie, candy, toy, or electronic device. Fortunately, grandma was in town and managed to cut his hair.

2010-10-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

Allie turns 1 year old!

It went by so fast and I can hardly believe that Allie turned one on October 4th. She is such a sweet little girl. Almost walking, loves to babble, loves to play with and tease Carson, she is our little angel! Happy Birthday Allie!!

2010-09-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Go Huskies!!

Mike and Carson enjoy a football game together today, while mom and Allie went shopping and watched the game at home.

2010-09-07T09:41:00.000-07:00

Carson's first day at school!

He was very excited and had lots of energy.

2010-09-05T07:57:00.000-07:00

So Long Me-Nah!

We aren't quite sure how Carson came to name his pacifier Me-Nah but the pacifier has been a part of Carson his whole life! He wouldn't nap, go to bed, go on a walk, or do much with out his pacifier nearby. With school around the corner, it was time that the big boy leave it behind for good. It wasn't an easy task but Carson is now binky free!

2010-09-04T20:29:00.000-07:00

RECAP OF SUMMER!

Once again I find myself a little behind in my blogging. Here is what we have been up to lately! Enjoy!

Camping at Birch Bay

with Rob, Jessica, Jackson and Logan Rogers

Birch Bay is located right on the Washington Coast, near Blaine, WA. The kids had a blast in the water and playing in the sand and rocks.

The kids played great together! Jackson is age 4, Logan age 1.5 and Carson is age 3. Allie in the play pin, my attempt to keep her somewhat clean!

Jackson and Carson pointing out the moon and mom rocking Allie to sleep. Gotta love those rocking camping chairs!

Special dress, special girl!

Allie is wearing a family keepsake. My mom's mother, Wanda Glenn embroidered at the bottom of pillow cases, which Shannon had one of them made into a precious dress.

Carson wanted his picture taken in the flowers also!

Allie strikes up a pose!

Birthday Time for Carson!

Carson turned age 3, August 11th. He was lucky enough to have 2 birthday parties! One in Yakima and one in Seattle. This is Carson in Yakima decorating his own cake. Allie enjoyed herself also!

Taylor and Allie playing in the kiddie pool and the boys, Trey, Carson and Aiden playing on the swing set! Other activities included feeding the pony and donkey, playing in the sand box and jumping on the trampoline.

Grandpa, help me put this together!

Great Grandpa and Grandma Glenn were at Carson's party also. Special moment with Great Grandpa Glenn.

Next birthday was in Seattle. We had so much fun with all our friends and their kids. Grandma and Grandpa Hopkins were also in town for Carson's birthday. What a fun time!

Carson's favorite part: singing and candles!

Mike Hollinshead, Caroline Adams, Roberta Hollinshead and Kevin Adams. Carson playing with Oliver Lucas.

Bennet Olsen, Liv Adams and Myles/Marcus Hollinshead. Kara and Anna Pierre. The motorized car was the place to be with all the kids!

Randy, Leslie, Cathy and Mike Howard along with Brian Dawson. Cecilia and Philip Howard with Joey Pierre on the trampoline.

Carson taking his turn at the pinata. He was lucky enough to have 2 pinatas!!

Carson taking a break from the pinata. He got lots of candy, money, toys!!

It was Grandpa Hopkins birthday also. Mike surprised him with a very special hunting gun. Allie played dress up with Grandma Hopkins!

Ellis Reunion 2010

Yes, I did it. Something I said I would never do. Normally we would fly but this year, I (along with my parents and Kim) drove the kids 11+ hours to Blackfoot, ID to the Ellis reunion. The kids did surprisingly well in the car! Everyone had a great time. We look forward to going again next year.

Carson loved chasing Uncle Ron's chickens around.

Allie sporting her new bow and Grandpa and Carson taking a break in the hammock.

There was so much to do! Duck races, jump castle, swing set, duck and car races, 4-wheel rides and Ferris wheel rides. What more could a kid ask for?!

4th of July visit from the Tillett family!

Lori, Chad, Cameron and Caitlin stayed for a week in July. The kids had a ball playing on the trampoline, going to the zoo, the beach and down town Seattle.

Mike with Carson and Caitlin. Caitlin is Allie's best friend!

Uncle Chad's birthday! AND Fun times at Golden Gardens.

Boating in June!

Grandpa took Carson and Allie boating. Carson wanted to operate the boat while Allie loved the sand and water.

and finally......

Welcome RH2!

June marks that month that Mike, along with 2 other co-workers start a new Accounting Firm. Rekdal Hopkins Howard, ps is open for business and we couldn't be more excited for this new chapter in our lives.

2010-06-05T07:08:00.000-07:00

Family Picture in Boise - Train Depot

We visited the Hopkins' over Memorial Day weekend. We fished, BBQ'd and the kids had a ball with water guns! We also had family pictures and even though it was raining cats and dogs, we still managed to get some special photos.

Hopkins and the Tillett's

The Ladies

Carson and Allie

Took the kids to Pike Place Market at the end of May. Carson loved to look around, see the flying fish and play at the park.

Mike and I got away for a trip to Hawaii in April. Thanks to my family, we went solo! What a wonderful vacation!

Easter Time! Carson loved to color Easter eggs and go on a Easter egg hunt. He wanted to color each egg more than one time. Every time Allie got an egg in her basket, Carson would grab it out and put it in his basket. We were happy Len and Kathy could spend Easter with us!

Carson and Grandma Hopkins making mom's birthday cake. Never enough sprinkles, right?! =)

2010-03-28T12:46:00.000-07:00

-Almost Easter time-

I had to get a picture of the kids in their Easter outfits while in Yakima. Carson managed to get a grass stain on his pants, the five minutes he had them on but they were so cute together!

A funny moment... Allie was in the kitchen playing with a measuring cup while I was helping with breakfast. Carson decided he wanted a measuring cup to play with also so that he could be like his sister. He is such a funny boy!

2010-03-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

A visit with the Tillett's in Yakima!

We had a fun time visiting with Lori Beth, Chad, Cameron and Caitlin last week in Yakima. They were there visiting Chad's parents so we made the trip over to see them also. The kids had a blast playing on the swing set and going on a scavenger hunt for their early Easter baskets. They met Allie for the first time!

2010-03-16T12:39:00.000-07:00

Carson's favorite book at the moment...

Tickle Monster

by Josie Bissett

This story is about a monster who believes everyone should be tickled at least 10 times a day. He tickles your tummy and toes, earlobes and nose! It comes with these cute little mitts. If you are looking for a new cute book, this one is great for all ages!

Getting Older!

Just another sign that the kids are getting older. Allie eating a teething biscuit and Carson wanting to get his own food ready to heat up and eat.

2010-03-11T19:44:00.000-08:00

Family Picture Time!

Sure is tricky to get everyone to smile at just the right moment!

I love this picture of Mike and Carson.

And sweet little Allie looked up just in time for her photo moment.

2010-03-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

I've been a little behind once again in my posts, so just a little update. Allie will be 6 months old next month and is getting so big! She loves to roll over, play with her toys and thankfully is sleeping through the night. She has the sweetest personality. Carson loves his little sister. He loves to give her hugs and to hold her. Carson's favorite thing to do right now is to swing. He could swing for hours! He challenges me on a daily basis to keep him busy. We still try to go on a walk daily and make it to a park. We will be so happy when dad is done with busy tax season!

2010-03-10T07:15:00.000-08:00

First time for rice cereal. Allie wasn't a huge fan.

Big brother, little sister

Some more cute pictures.

2010-03-10T06:48:00.000-08:00

Cute PJ pictures!

Carson loves to honk noses and poor Allie gets a honk probably more than she would like!

Played herself to sleep, love that!

2010-03-10T06:21:00.000-08:00

Carson and Allie in January. They are really becoming little buds...

Here we are the the Everett Children's Science Museum. Carson loves this place! It's full of anything and everything. There's a water room, a bus and an airplane the kids can drive, animals, an enormous play set, a production studio, it's a kids dream!

2010-01-13T21:39:00.000-08:00

So BIG!

One of Carson's favorites...peach yogurt! And Allie looking nice and sturdy in her Bumbo chair.

2010-01-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

On our way to Yakima for Christmas and had to stop at the rest stop. The only snow Carson has been able to play in this year!

Christmas morning, the first present Carson opened was a tube a toothpaste. He didn't want to open anything else after that. Grandma Ellis was trying to get him excited about his other gifts but he was not interested. That is until he opened his harmonica! Mickey Mouse plays a harmonica in A Very Merry Christmas, so he was excited to have his own.

Little miss Allie on Christmas day. So cute!

Allie and I headed out after Christmas to see Eric get married. Carson and Mike stayed home but were happy to have Grandpa Hopkins join them for the week. It was so fun to see the many family members that made it to the reception. Congrats Eric and Brooklyn! What a good looking couple!

2009-12-20T20:01:00.000-08:00

Update starting with Thanksgiving....

Eric and his fiance Brooklyn flew down to spend Thanksgiving with the family. They met Allie for the first time. We also introduced Allie to Grandpa and Grandma Glenn. Side note: we were so happy to meet Brooklyn! She is adorable and will be a great addition to the family!

Carson is all ready to feed the pony and donkey. One of the first things to do on his agenda when we visit Yakima!

Allie in some fun accessories!

Grandpa and Grandma Hopkins came to visit. We also had early Christmas with them. Grandpa Hopkins came over on Tuesday to play with his buddy and grandson Carson. We visited Santa Clause, picked out a Christmas tree, went to the park and played and played. Grandma Hopkins joined us Thursday night. It was great to see them.

Part of Carson's nightly routine (and his favorite thing to do) to pick out a video, which we allow him to watch 15-20 minutes of a movie before bedtime.

Carson in his new Mickey Mouse pj's. One of his Christmas presents from Grandma and Grandpa Hopkins. Also loves his new Mickey jacket from the Tillett's.

Carson is anxious to open presents already!

This doesn't happen too often, both kids asleep at the SAME TIME!! We had to document it=) Carson and Allie sporting their new pj's from Grandma Ellis. And finally, Carson showing Allie how to use her toy. He is such a big helper!

Allie is such a good baby. She eats every three hours during the day and goes to bed by about 7:30-8pm. She has one nightly feeding, usually between 2:30 and 3:30am and then up by about 6:30am. Carson is a great big brother and loves to help take care of Allie. Whether it's handing me a baby wipe or sharing his toys, Carson loves to take care of his little sister.

2009-11-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

It's Halloween Fun!

Carson went trick or treating with 5 other kids his age. He never really said trick or treat but aways said thank you after receiving candy. He had a ball! He was dressed as a power ranger but didn't really dig wearing the mask.

Allie and Anna Banana! Carson looking happy with his sister!

Playing dress up with Anna!

2009-10-30T21:05:00.000-07:00

Finally updated the blog! Whew! Where does time go when you have a newborn and a two year old?!

2009-10-30T20:41:00.000-07:00

Carson's new love...beeking (aka - baking!)

Trying to stay busy during the rainy weather - Carson and I have turned to baking. So far we have made pumpkin bread and cookies!

We also pulled out the paints. Kind of mess but it's worth it!

Some more pictures of Allie. She has filled out quite a bit as you can see from picture one and two. Allie is doing very well. We started her on a schedule this week and she is sleeping in her own bed. I forgot how much work a newborn can be!

2009-10-30T20:10:00.000-07:00

A visit from Grandma and Grandpa Hopkins!

A fun visit to the pumpkin patch. Allie fell asleep and stayed in the with grandma. Carson had a ball running around, playing on the pumpkins.

More fun pics...!

2009-10-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

Wecome Allie!

Allie Ann Hopkins arrived on Sunday, October 4th at 4:48am weighing in at 8 lbs and 2 oz, 19.5 inches long. She has long brown and blone hair and is just cute as a button! I was scheduled to be induced on Sunday but actually went into labor on Saturday. After a hefty 24 hours in the hospital, we were able to come home and relax.

Allie and Carson were all ready to go to the park and go for a walk today.

Mommy had to put Allie in a dress yesterday and of course a bow!!

2009-08-18T21:33:00.000-07:00

Carson turns 2 years old!

Grandma Ellis and Kim came over for the day to celebrate Carson's birthday. They showed up with balloons and lots of fun little gifts (bubbles, recorder, juice, sidewalk chalk, fruit snacks) all individually wrapped. Carson loved to open them!

We later ventured to Chuck E Cheese! Carson had visited Chuck E Cheese with Grandma and Grandpa Hopkins in July and it didn't take him long to remember how it works! He wanted to try and ride everything!

After Chuck E Cheese we went home and played with his new treasures and had fun on the swing set.

2009-08-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

Finishing touches on the swing set!

With a new sister on the way, we thought it would be a good thing to have a fun play system outside to keep Carson occupied. Mike and Carson finished putting down the gravel and now it's ready to go!

2009-08-18T08:18:00.000-07:00

In Yakima for Shannon's Wedding.

We kept busy playing at grandma and grandpa's house, swimming at uncle Rick's house and playing with cousins.

Carson had fun playing with Eric. He doesn't get to see him very often!

Wedding site - Silverlake Winery

Very lovely location but it was still 96 degrees at the time of the ceremony, hot!

2009-08-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

Baby Shower in Fruitland, ID! It was so fun to see all the pink!

2009-08-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

Having Fun in Boise over the 4th of July!

Carson and dad swimming at Tammy's house. Carson had to greet Chip the lab every morning. They are best buds!

2009-07-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

Remodel Complete!

A bit past the 4th of July, the remodel is complete. Contractors put finishing touches on stairs and cabinets yesterday and we are so excited to have our house back!

2009-06-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

Making Progress...

The cherry flooring is down (although it's kind of hard to see with all the cardboard) and the installation of the cabinets is underway. Next will be granite, backsplash and finish work. They say it will be complete by the 4th of July. We will see...!

2009-06-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

Remodel Project - Kitchen

The week we got home from Maui we had to start our kitchen demo. Fortunately, my parents were able to come up and help. My dad had everything torn down in no time. So far, wall has come down, the lower segments of the ceiling have been removed and electric/new wiring is complete. This week, sheet rock and paint!

Before - in process of packing up!

Wall removed, lower ceiling soffits removed, electrical done.

It's definately been interesting living without a kitchen and living around the worksite. I kind of feel like I'm camping when I try to make meals=) Finished product should be in about 4 weeks.

2009-06-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

ALOHA from Maui

Fairmont Kea Lani - Maui

We recently returned from a beautiful vacation to Maui! We had a wonderful time relaxing by the beach and pools. Mike's parents traveled with us and we were happy to spend time with them. We had a family photograph taken on the last day. These are similar to what the photographer took (Mike's dad captured these shots).

Carson's favorite thing to do at the resort was to push the elevator buttons and ride the elevator. I think grandma and grandpa visited every single elevator on the resort at least 50 times each! Carson ended each day with a Mickey Mouse Club House cartoon. We all had the songs memorized by the end of the week!

2009-05-01T19:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Family!

Another bit of exciting news, Shannon and Doug will be getting married in August. They are a great match and we are very excited for them. Shannon has started a blog also. Feel free to check it out. Congrats Shannon and Doug!

http://shanellis.blogspot.com

2009-05-01T11:54:00.001-07:00

It's a Girl!!

2009-04-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

A Visit From The Tilletts!

We were happy that Mike's sister and her family were also in Yakima for Easter. The kids had fun playing outside and feeding the ducks one day. It was great to spend time with them!

2009-04-22T19:35:00.000-07:00

Several days of fun at grandma and grandpa's house started with playing in the water. Kim was cleaning out the fish pond and Carson had to be included in all the excitement!

Then there was lots of swinging. Carson still loves to swing.

Two Eater egg hunts. Grandma had a neighborhood Easter egg hunt and then a family Easter egg hunt. Carson liked to put the eggs in his basket.

Easter day - Carson in his Easter outfit. It was cute for the hour he kept it on!=)

2009-04-06T10:09:00.000-07:00

Finally!

Some nice weather in Seattle and we took full advantage! We spent the day working and playing in the yard and ended the day with a BBQ. March was such a rainy, dreary month. We hope April brings a few more sunny days!!

2009-03-24T09:48:00.000-07:00

DO I SMELL MAPLE SYRUP?

You know there's a problem when you smell maple syrup and you didn't have pancakes or waffles for breakfast. Well, that was the case this morning and here I found Carson had poured maple syrup all over the kitchen floor and into this pan. He stepped in it and swooshed his hands through it and then proceeded to touch and walk all around the kitchen before I found him. What a sticky mess!!

2009-03-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

12 Weeks and 5 Days

Here's a recent ultrasound picture of our little one. We can't find out the gender for another 4 or 5 weeks. It's always so much fun to see the baby moving and the heart beating. So sweet!

2009-03-16T18:51:00.000-07:00

Learning to COLOR

Carson is learning how to use markers and color crayons. We bought him this cute little desk and washable markers and crayons. Now if we can just keep the crayons out of his mouth=)

Carson's finished product

2009-03-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

Mastering the Wii

It's pretty amazing what kids can pick up just by watching others. Carson already has his bowling arm down. Now if he can just get a hang of the trigger button!

2009-03-16T18:18:00.000-07:00

TRAMPOLINE CASTLE = FUN!!

Grandma Ellis found this blow up castle for Carson and he loves it! Not to mention it's a great way to burn some energy!

Peek-a-boo!

Baby Talk

2009-03-02T09:48:00.000-08:00

Thank you for all the baby comments! Fortunately, the morning sickness is gone and I'm feeling much better. I don't think Carson realizes that I'm pregnant yet but I'm sure once I'm showing, he might start to get the idea. We will definately be finding out the gender when the time comes. I am so excited to find out!

I'm looking forward to getting all your tips on how to manage two kids!

2009-02-20T10:26:00.001-08:00

September 28, 2009!
The date that Carson will become a big brother! Number two is on the way and Mike and I couldn't be more excited! Although I've had a little morning sickness this time around, things are going well. More updates to come in the following months...

2009-02-16T10:42:00.000-08:00

I Love Shoes!

Carson in his cute dino boots and mom's running shoes!

And I love my dad!

With tax season in full swing, Carson will hardly let Mike out of his sight these days. He wants to spend every second with dad when he is home.

Dad and Carson in the kitchen watching mom cook!

2009-02-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

Away in Ocean Shores...

Mike and I went to Ocean Shores for the weekend to attend a United Way auction and dinner. It's a very beautiful place but very cold this time of the year. Grandma and Grandpa drove to Seattle to watch Carson while we were away. He had a ball at the Bellevue Mall play center! Thanks mom and dad for giving us a weekend away!

2009-02-04T18:00:00.000-08:00

Mom and Tot Swim Lessons!
Carson and I started swim lessons 2 weeks ago and boy does he love the water! We practice swimming on our stomachs and backs, blow bubbles, grab stuff out of the water and sing lots of funny water songs. What a fun activity to do with your little one. I would recommend it!

2009-01-15T17:19:00.000-08:00

Thought I would share some fun pics of Carson. Right now he loves popcorn, and he loves to climb on top of or in anything, as you can see with the stove. He is one active boy!

2008-12-30T16:54:00.000-08:00

We made it to the Boise airport and had a wonderful Christmas with the Hopkins and Tilletts. Carson stayed busy following his cousins, Cameron and Caitlin, around everywhere.
Some of the activities:

Making pancakes - brave grandma letting all the kids make their own batter.

Making and frosting sugar cookies.

Opening and playing with Christmas presents. Carson ended up being more interested in Rex, his cousin's family dog. Carson fed poor Rex so much food, including a half a bag of Cheetos.

And sledding! Mike pulled the kids around grandma and grandpa's neighborhood.

Cameron, Caitlin and Carson in their matching pj's. So cute!
We hope everyone made it to their destinations and had a wonderful Christmas!

2008-12-22T08:48:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!
From our family to yours!

Holy Snow!

2008-12-21T17:46:00.001-08:00

That's how we feel after driving over Snoqualmie Pass last night in whiteout conditions and arriving home to a foot of snow. I have never been in a snow storm with 70 mile per hour winds plus snow fall before but I can now say that I hope to never, EVER experience it again. What used to be a fun thing has officially (in our book) become an extreme nuisance. Too deep for Carson to play in and a possible cause for us not to be able to fly out Tuesday, we are now praying for a stop to the craziness.

Let it Snow!

2008-12-14T11:25:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful surprise to wake up to two inches of snow this morning. We had to take Carson outside for his first sled ride. He was having so much fun he didn't want to stop!

We love the snow!

Back in town and ready to Blog!

2008-12-09T10:17:00.001-08:00

We are back in town after spending Thanksgiving in Yakima and also a 8 day trip to Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Thanksgiving dinner was wonderful as always, spent with lots of family and lots of good food. Then on Friday, Mike and I said our tearful goodbyes to Carson and off to Mexico we went. We spent most of our days at the beach or one of the many pools. Most evenings consisted of a yummy meal (resort was all-inclusive) and a fun game of pinochle with our friends, Kory and Emily. It was great to relax and know that Carson was in good hands at grandma and grandpa's house. It's great to be back home and back with Carson. That flight home felt like the longest 6 hours ever!

2008-11-11T09:48:00.000-08:00

Got to spend a great weekend with Grandma and Grandpa Hopkins!
Looking forward to seeing you again in December!

2008-10-31T20:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!
Scooby-doo, where are you?!!

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

OUR FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY...
What do we do all day? I get this question a lot! Besides the playing, story book reading, eating, napping routine, Carson and I both look forward to our daily (or almost daily) walk. I get the exercise I'm looking for and Carson loves a good stroll! We end the walk with a fun time at the playground.

2008-10-25T21:49:00.000-07:00

Grandma Ellis to the Rescue!
Grandma Ellis decided to take Carson to his first McDonald's play area today. This place was crazy! 100 kids running around - all ages - lots of screaming and running - the whole works. Carson started off really well, just going down the baby slide. He decided to get a little more daring and climbed up a couple of stairs to this tunnel, which was probably a story tall. A couple seconds later, Kim comes running to me and says Carson is at the top of this play structure! I'm freaking out because he's only 14 MONTHS OLD! Next thing we know, grandma is climbing up the tube to rescue my baby. Fortunately, she got him down and everything was fine. I think we will be sticking to good old parks from now on=) Funny thing is, Kim managed to capture it all on camera.

2008-10-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

First Haircut!
I told myself that when someone referred to Carson as my daughter, it would be time to cut his hair. Well, it happened twice in one weekend! So we made a visit to Aunt Shannon's salon for Carson's first haircut. He looks like such a big boy now!

2008-10-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

This provided several minutes of entertainment!

Mr. Potato Head sharing his glasses with Carson.

2008-10-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

Having fun at the Pumpkin Patch!

2008-09-27T20:37:00.000-07:00

Went to the zoo today! Carson had a ball running around

and looking at the animals. We ended the visit with a ride on the carousel.

2008-09-24T08:34:00.000-07:00

Carson fell asleep during the boat ride

Feeding the ducks at the park

2008-09-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

My little Pumpkin!

Faster Grandpa!

Swinging is my favorite

Carson loves to feed the fish

2008-09-12T21:11:00.000-07:00

Went to go visit dad downtown and grab lunch.

Carson loves to swing!

Just eating a little dirt...

2008-09-12T20:43:00.000-07:00

Carson's funny little face that he makes when he's

mad, running away from me, or just being silly!

Feet First!

Carson loves to go outside. He used to wait until after his first nap

but now he wants to go outside right after breakfast.

So we put on a jacket, pj's and all and play outside.

He goes to the door when he's finished playing.

2008-08-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

New bike from Grandpa and Grandma Hopkins

2008-08-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

Carson eating dirt while the future dentist is brushing his teeth!

Carson followed Walter everywhere!

Kids played in the sand while the adults played horseshoes.

Beautiful sunsets

2008-08-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

Cute shades! (He actually likes wearing them!)

Grandma Ellis, Eliza and Kim came over to Seattle to visit.

Walking!

2008-08-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

Although I don't have a picture to prove it, it's official, Carson is walking! Four days before his 1st birthday he has decided it's time! It's adorable to watch, a little wobbly yet he is so determined!=)

2008-08-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Opps, did I do that?!

Hanging out with Great Grandpa Heck.

2008-08-05T20:20:00.000-07:00

Ouch! That candle is hot!

My hand is fine and I ate some cake.

Aunt Shannon and Carson after his birthday cake.

2008-07-23T08:12:00.000-07:00

Went fishing at Lake Owyhee

Supposed to be crappie fishing - Len caught a bass! (I'm showing it off)

Len, Grandpa Heck and Mike

2008-07-23T08:04:00.000-07:00

Early 1st birthday!!

2008-07-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

Ellis family reunion

2008-07-23T07:41:00.000-07:00

Carson at dad's softball game

2008-07-23T07:34:00.000-07:00

Went to the Woodland Park Zoo - Carson and uncle Chad

Cameron, Carson, Grandpa Hopkins and Caitlin

Enjoying the slide with MeMa Hopkins

2008-06-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

Some fun shots at our cousin Dallin's wedding

2008-06-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

Seattle Mariners Game

2008-06-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

First cut on the forehead - before Band-Aid

After Band-Aid

2008-05-31T19:55:00.000-07:00

Carson has his own "big boy" chair

2008-05-30T22:34:00.000-07:00

Trip to San Diego

Carson ate handfuls of sand!

Swimming with Me-Ma!

At the San Diego Zoo

2008-05-30T22:25:00.000-07:00

Carson and dad at a Mexican Restaurant

Kids pool - only 1 ft. deep! Perfect!

Chillin at the beach

2008-04-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

Playing in the sand at Golden Gardens

2008-04-27T14:17:00.000-07:00

Outside enjoying the sun!

At the beach with mom and dad.

2008-04-06T18:07:00.000-07:00

More Easter Pictures!!

2008-03-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

2008-03-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

First Easter!

2008-03-06T10:22:00.000-08:00

Carson wanted Grandma's sandwich all to himself!

Having fun with paper.

2008-02-29T20:51:00.000-08:00

Finally, real food!

Oh ya, I'm a hunk!

The sign says it all!

2008-02-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

At Anthony's with mom and dad

2008-02-04T20:04:00.000-08:00

Grandpa Ellis and Carson -

Carson thought it was fun to have this cloth on his head!

Reading Little Red Riding Hood with Grandma Ellis

Enjoying my first cookie!!

Taking a nap with my stuffed animals

2008-01-20T15:05:00.000-08:00

This seems to help my gums.

I want my mommy!

2008-01-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

Having fun with Aunt Tammy

2008-01-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

Great Grandpa and Grandma Heck, Grandma Hopkins, dad and Carson.

Making sugar cookies with Auntie Lori.

2008-01-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

Christmas with Grandma and Grandpa Ellis in Seattle.

Sitting with Grandpa during Christmas dinner.

Hanging out with Cameron and Caitlin in Boise.

Boys in Boise.

Mom and Carson before Christmas party in Boise.

Carson Present

2007-12-16T18:10:00.000-08:00

2007-12-13T13:07:00.000-08:00

Got dressed up to see Santa!

Carson and Santa!

2007-12-02T22:04:00.000-08:00

Woke up to lots of snow at Snowater

Chatting with Jessica and Jackson

2007-12-02T21:48:00.000-08:00

Swimming for the first time

Playing poker with dad

Sledding with dad