Olson & Co

Dear Heber:

2010-06-14T08:34:00.007-04:00

With a new little sister and a few extra stresses, Heber has probably felt a little lost in the shuffle of our ever changing lives, so this post is dedicated solely to him.....the BEST big brother and all around kiddo any family could ask for.

I love the way you take such good care of your little Adele. It is nice that you protect her and watch out for her, even if it means correcting mama when you suspect I am getting grumpy with her. Thank you for reminding me to tell her that I am sorry and for sending me to "the put your nose in the corner TIME OUT" when I need it.

You are so good at karate. It makes me so happy to watch you and to see how much you enjoy accomplishing big things. We are so proud of you for earning your orange stripe. We know you have worked very hard for that special award and think that you are so big for showing such good discipline.

(Heber has been working for quite some time to earn that orange stripe on the tip of his belt. It is achieved for showing good discipline so earning this is very noteworthy for an active 5 year old boy. )

Part of showing good discipline in karate class is addressing each black belt as Yes Mam or Yes Sir.....

On the way home from Karate on this particular day Heber asked me if he could tell daddy when he got home. When I said yes, he corrected me and told me that I now needed to say

"YES SIR!"

I cannot wait to watch you try out your new t-ball skills coming up in a couple of weeks. Mommy was so proud of you when you hit the ball for me to see at your school. You are so full of energy and love to play and be involved. I hope you are always able to find things that make you happy.

Guscoff baseball trained......you must see the video posted below!!
(Ted Guscoff taught these little guys some great baseball tips. He is a scout for the Houston Astros.)

You are such a smart boy. Mom and Dad are so happy that you had so much fun at Westbrook and that you learned so much. I loved to hear from your teacher that you were such a good friend, not only to your "best boys" but also to those who needed a good friend, even when they were mean to you. Preschool is just the beginning for you little man. I cannot wait to see the many great thing that you have left to accomplish. "Kid, you will move mountains" just like in your favorite bedtime story. Please never question your great potential.

Thank you for letting me come to your birthday party, even though I almost lost that privilege many times for misbehaving. I had a lot of fun playing with you and watching you enjoy your friends and family.

(This super duper birthday gets it's very own post to follow. Watch out for 15 jumping kids, 2 very special visitors,

and 1 baseball glove prepped and ready for those foul balls!)

Each May 23, I think of the day you were born. You were forced to come into this world before you were ready so that my body could not be so sick anymore.....my little Knight in shining armor. I will never forget the first time I heard you cry or the first time I saw your sweet little face, so strong and so alive.....not much has changed in your 5 years in this life. You are as much a miracle to me today as you were to me that day.

We love you and are so proud of you.

Love,

Mom and Dad

Wise men say only fools rush in

2010-06-02T07:18:00.006-04:00

But I can't help falling in love with you

Adele Fae Olson

March 31, 2010

okay so it's been 2 months.....I've been a little busy!!

6 lb 13 oz.................19.25 inches long

Such a BEAUTIFUL girl

Holding my pretty lady for the first time

SMITTEN!! All 10 fingers and all 10 toes.

I couldn't keep my eyes off of this baby

Since daddy had to exhaust all of his time off for his own surgeries this year, Adele got to work with daddy right from the start dictating and charting.

"You are so much beautiful."

A proper sendoff orthopedic surgery style

Welcome home baby Adele. Heber did not want to leave her side for a minute.

I'm just noticing the socks....this is why mommies can't be in the hospital too long!!

LOVE at First Sight

2010-03-14T16:02:00.008-04:00

Some pictures just don't need any further explanation.....this one sums it up just perfectly!

The long awaited day finally arrived. Heber has been waiting for this day since before he even attended his first "NINJA" class.

The semi-annual East Cost karate tournement was where it all went down, and as you can see, it was a GREAT day.

Heber finally got to trade in his "paper trophy"(see post below) for the real thing. Who doesn't love a trophy....especially when it is GOLD.

He has been working on perfecting his skills at the push pull game. He won his match when it counted and mommy was so excited she missed the greatest part of the whole day with the camera...Heber very humbly celebrated as he walked back to his seat on the mat with his arms up by his face...giving them a little champion like shake with a quiet embarrassed smile across his face. I will never get this photo-op back....I can't believe I shut my camera off too soon. I am so happy though that I got to witness that little moment for him.....I may never forget that little face, for a moment a pure satisfaction and a sure realization of his limitless potential.

Congratulations my boy!!

Kiai (Hi-Yah)

2010-02-18T21:08:00.007-05:00

We finally did it. For a while now I have debated with myself about putting Heber in Karate. I knew it was something he would love, I just also knew he was already very aggressive and did not need any further encouragement to be so.

I decided to take the plunge anyway and was not at all surprised on the first day when he absolutely loved it. He was so excited about the "ninja suit" and being with the other kids and especially yelling a very enthusiastic "Kiai "(I mean up on his toes yelling). I was shocked however at how well he listened and followed direction (maybe I need to become a black belt for more success with this at home). I thought maybe it was first day jitters but now 4 sessions in, Heber seems to be really grasping not only the beginning skills of Karate but also the art of the respect and discipline that encompasses it. I am happy that he enjoys it and that he has not tried out any moves on anyone at school!

Today he learned a competitive game they will be playing at a tournement coming up in March. He didn't do too bad......he came out feeling like he was a winner. After class was over he ran to me with a bright green flyer advertising the upcoming tournement and told me he won a "Paper trophy"....... I love it!!!!

A good old "BEAR LAKER"

2010-02-18T19:07:00.005-05:00

Okay, so maybe not quite. This year however has presented the worst winter in the 5 years we have been in OH and it has all come about in the last week and a half. These pictures were taken during the first of 3 winter storm warnings that were issued. We probably have about 2 feet on the ground right now after a good dose of warmth and even a little sunshine in between.

We have been waiting for some decent snowman snow. For now though it is fun to play with the doorbell, running up and down the front walk as mommy squeals from inside the house.....I think they call it doorbell ditching these days. I hope he thinks this is only a winter game......one can only do this so many times!

You've got a FRIEND in me

2010-01-30T07:12:00.004-05:00

Could these little boys possible look any happier? There are two of them anyway that look like they are having the absolute best day of their little 4 year old lives. Any day at "M" with your pals is a great day though, right?

One of the highlights of my day is watching Heber interact with his friends before and after school. It reminds me of a time when life was easy and fun.....why would we ever want to grow up? Of course, if we didn't, we would miss out on moments like this....the moments that make being a grown up and a parent easy and fun!!

Santa Clause wants you to be nice....or he won't bring you a book!

2010-01-28T07:42:00.006-05:00

We actually did celebrate Christmas at our house.....apparently Heber has not realized this yet. Each time I ask him to eat his dinner or clean his toy room I am reminded that Santa wants me to be nice. Maybe now that I am finally posting about it he will clue in and move on to the Easter Bunny or some other friendly fictional creeper of the night.

Daddy actually had Christmas off this year (maybe because he had surgery a week before...nonetheless we loved having him here in PJ's on Christmas morning). We put the pager deep down in the box and enjoyed the entire weekend together.

Heber was very happy to see that Santa enjoyed the cookies and milk placed in the perfect spot for him to see.
Up until this year Heber has not been very into the opening of gifts......this time he could not get enough and not only opened his own, but all of ours as well.

*As a side note, Ben is very very sad that the Browns didn't make it to the Super Bowl this year......we thought they had it in the bag!!! Sorry we still have your shirt Ray, we just couldn't part with it!*

You would think then that I would have had more time to take pictures of the whole event. I kept forgetting my camera was sitting right beside me. I missed capturing many marvelous expressions as he uncovered what lay hidden beneath the red and green paper.....he did love this book though and has requested it almost every night for a month.

Perhaps the biggest photo op blunder of the day though was the grand finale. Anyone who had the pleasure of associating with Heber (even for a second) during the months leading up to Christmas (Jan-Dec) knew that he really wanted only one thing. It was so important to him that he actually braved up this year and sat on Santas lap all by himself just to make sure that the big man knew what he really wanted.

Santa was very smart and knew that Heber would ignore the aforementioned gifts in red and green if he came down the stairs and spotted this first, so he stragegically set it up and left it hidden behind the doors of the armoire all ready to play when the rest of the Christmas unwrapping was done.

I have to say that I am very proud of Heber. Each gift he unwrapped brought with it a big smile and many many "thank you's" but his little eyes kept scanning the room for the gift that looked like it would be what he had asked for. When we were all done unwrapping Ben asked him if he had a good Christmas. Heber responded with eyes still scanning "the BEST dad!"

I couldn't resist any longer and pointed him toward the big red ribbon around the TV cupboard. He excidetly opened it and realized Santa had not let him down. I almost cried when the first words out of his mouth (realizing there was 3 of everything) were a very enthusiastic "we can all play together." The Wii has proven to be a great gift for all of us....not just because there are enough remotes for all of us to play but it is quite the bargaining tool as well!

This is what we have been doing ever since!

*I did in fact get the book I wanted for Christmas...for any of you who have not read Dan Brown's Robert Langdon series I highly recommend it.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T21:17:00.001-05:00

Love These Guys

2009-12-15T06:38:00.002-05:00

About a month ago we got to have daddy to ourselves for a whole weekend. We decided to take full advantage of this and the beautiful November day and venture out to a favorite hiking spot. Of course, the boys were totally in their element. All the fresh air and falling leaves brought with it many wrestling matches, sword fights, and even a baseball game complete with gloves and bat which a good daddy had the foresight to toss in the back of the truck.

"I'm 4 and my Letter is H"

2009-11-25T17:01:00.003-05:00

The other day I was trying to see if Heber could spell his name for me. He was far too busy playing to answer my question...should have guessed this right away when he kept playing like I wasn't even speaking, but I kept asking until I got a response. He finally looked at me with his most exasperated face, put his hands on his hips, and said "I am 4 and my letter is H!" and then he walked away.

Another funny conversation from earlier today as we were approaching our car to go to the grocery store.

Heber: Oh great, here we go again.
Me: Why do you say that?
Heber: Here we go in this dumb old car.
Me: What kind of car would you like to have?
Heber: A BAN (van)....a BIG BAN. That is my dream mom.
Me: Well someday you can get married and have lots of kids and a van.
Heber: No mom...I not gettin married. I just want a Ban.

This little guy says something every day (and very often) that makes me laugh. I wish I kept better track of the things that come out of his mouth. I often wonder what it might be like to have actual adult conversation for the better part of the day instead of 99% of it being spent communicating with a 4.5 year old. I would be sad to miss these moments though. If I could only choose one person to talk with for the rest of my life at least I would know that Heber would keep me laughing.

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

2009-11-20T17:24:00.009-05:00

For almost 5 years now I have become very VERY accustomed to

and I am

BUT..... it looks like I am going to have to give it my best shot. We will be welcoming a little GIRL into our home sometime in April. Since she has measured a week ahead of schedule on the last 2 ultrasounds the doctor is trying to decide if we are looking at an April 3rd baby or an April 10th baby. Either way we are excited and will be anxiously awaiting our pink bundle of joy.

Heber has been saying now for over a month we would be having a sister baby. He even gave me the "I told you" line as we walked away from the doctors office. He will be a fun big brother and has already started coming up with some interesting names for the baby(CHARLENA...with a hard CH). Hopefully Ben and I can come to some sort of an agreement in the next 5 months or Heber might just win.

Home of the BRAVE

2009-11-11T13:53:00.015-05:00

"All that is necessary for evil to succeed is for good men to do nothing."

- Edmund Burke

There truly aren't words enough to adequately say thank you to the many men and women who protect this country and all that it means to be an American. We truly are very blessed by your service. Thank you!

(Grandpa Brick) Morris Woolstenhulme

United States Army

World War II--South Pacific

(Little Grandpa) Glen Hyrum Smith

United States Army

World War II--Stateside

John Heber Olson

United States Army National Guard

Iraq 2005.......Leaving again 2010

Not pictured is Ben's grandpa Leland Stanford (Jinx) who served this country, a pilot himself, training pilots during World War II.

I look at the beautiful flag in red, white, and blue, place my hand on my chest, and feel my heart swell with pride because of you. I am proud to say people I love so much have worked so hard to defend my freedom. I love you.

A long time coming

2009-11-10T10:12:00.003-05:00

We were so excited to go back home to Idaho in September. Ben had just had surgery and we probably should not have made the trip but it was so nice to see everyone and to enjoy the company of family for a couple of weeks.

Thank you Aunt Dayna for giving us a reason to come home. We were grateful for the opportunity we had to celebrate your special wedding day with you and Marc. Look how great those Olson (Homer) grandbabies look!! We need to give those boys a reason to wear ties more often.

I always swore I wouldn't be one of "those" moms who let there kids play video games. Let me just tell you how happy I am to eat those words. This little gem made our flight time and 3 hour layover in Denver seem like Heaven.
Heber loved playing with the grandparents and all the cousins. He had to earn a little money while we were home and decided to help grandpa fix the door. He also played around outside each day while grandpa picked up the many apples falling from the trees. That counts as help right?

My Grandpa passed away in May soon after Ben's first surgery. I didn't make the trip home to the funeral. I finally got a chance to say goodbye while we were there. It was nice to spend a little time in that beautiful place on the hill. We love you grandpa and grandma.

One of the reasons I will always love home. How beautiful is that lake!!

Heber even got to experiene the first snowfall of the season. As you can see, this was not a good old "Bear Laker" but nonetheless it snowed in September and Heber thought that was great.

Mamma Mia

2009-11-06T22:33:00.004-05:00

Since this is ALL he EVER wants to do
I was not at all surprised when THIS is what he asked to BE for Halloween

Check out my mad sewing skills on that hat. I looked all over Canton, OH and the internet to find the perfect little hat for my Luigi. I finally gave up and made one myself. Oh yea....this is the first time I have used my sewing machine for something other than scrapbooking. Not too bad!

J-Pouch anastomosis with loop illeostomy

2009-11-01T18:05:00.004-05:00

On September 3, Ben underwent his 2nd of 3 operations to officially rid his body of the nasty ulcerative colitis that landed him in this mess in the first place.

I think we both underestimated the magnitude of this particular step in the process and are very grateful now 2 months later that he seems to be returning back to normal.

Ben's belly - the large bowel + the loop illeostomy + J-pouch reservoir + 1 very long scar that will be a forever reminder of what a blessing it is to feel good.
Below is a picture of the appliance that attaches to the illeostomy. He gets to get rid of this officially in December when he will have his 3rd and (hopefully) final procedure.

Welcome Back to Westbrook

2009-11-01T17:57:00.003-05:00

Heber started his 2nd year of preschool in September. He was very excited to return back to Westbrook and to all of his buddies from last year. He went in without a hitch and didn't look back to say goodbye.

Okay...so it has been a while

2009-10-14T14:48:00.005-04:00

It isn't like we haven't had anything else though to keep us busy.

1. First day of school

2. Another major surgery

3. Two trips across the country (one of which I didn't think I was going to survive)

4. A wedding

5. A chance to finally say goodbye to someone very special

6. And a few times around on a roller coaster

I have proof of all of this in pictures which will soon follow this post.......until then however,

Ask us about APRIL (psstt....click here)

As if I didn't point the camera at him ENOUGH

2009-08-26T07:13:00.002-04:00

Heber decided he needed to do his own little photoshoot.

SOCCER

2009-08-17T14:31:00.003-04:00

Ever since the day the radiology tech exclaimed to Ben and I that we would be welcoming a little boy to our family I have been looking forward to this. There is something to be said about "pee wee" sports and I was counting the years until Heber would be able to participate.

Tee ball was an instant hit and he is actually quite a good little ball player. He can hit better off a pitch than a tee however and loves to try to outrun the person with the ball as he rounds the bases (he finally figured out how to go from 1st to home in the right sequence after a few games).

Soccer though, as illustrated by the picture below, is a little bit of a different story. This picture may or may not have been taken while the rest of the team was packed around the ball heading toward the goal. I wish you could here him yelling "DECEPTICON MOMMY" as he peered up at the airplane coming in for a landing at the airport down the road.

Eventually he did figure out that there was a game going on and he quickly joined in. He only came off the field crying twice because nobody was sharing the ball with him. I always thought he was the aggressive kid......guess we need to work on that one.

So, here is to soccer and this new adventure in a 4-year old boys life.

And then you find yourself

2009-07-14T08:29:00.006-04:00

The other day Ben and I were talking about where we would like to live when all of this is said and done. We could both agree that we wanted to be somewhere closer to "home" to which Heber added, "we are home."

This got me thinking a little about what it means to be HOME. Ben and I call Idaho home. Ohio is the only home Heber has ever known.

We miss the mountains, and blue sky, and dry heat. We miss the sound of the train running through town several times throughout the day and night. We miss a good ride on the 4-wheeler or a day on north beach.

Home however, is more than the familiar walls you grow up in; more than the climate and the landscape around you. Home is being with the people you love.

We miss our family the most. I often find myself feeling bad that Heber can't play with his cousins every day or go to grandpas house for a popcicle or to the drug store to visit grandma. But then I watch his eyes light up as he spots his buddies on the way to primary. I see one of the older men in the ward get down and give him a handshake and a "how are you today buddy." I feel a warm arm wrap around my shoulders and see the smiling faces of those around me, and I realize that Heber is right, we are home. For right now, we are home.

"My best friends"

Tyler, Heber, and Kaleb

Massillon Ward Campout 2009

The day we pulled out of Bear Lake in the U-haul Ben promised me we wouldn't go any further east than Missouri. I was not surprised 2-years later when we loaded up and moved to Ohio.

I am sure we would have had a great experience and made great friends in any place we decided to venture to. I am grateful however that he did not keep that promise to me. This has been a great place to call HOME.

Hey Batter Batter

2009-07-02T08:54:00.007-04:00

Take me out to the ball game, take me out with the crowd.

Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks, I don't know if I never get back

Let me root, root, root for the BLUE JAYS (don't know how they ended up with green shirts)

if they don't win its a shame. For its one, two, three strikes you're out at the Old Ball Game.

When the coach first put the helmet on his head we thought he looked like

chicken little...it amazed us to see how small he is next to the majority of his team.

You should have seen all the little green shirts scrambling for the ball each time it was hit off the tee....it looked a little bit more like a wrestling match then a baseball game. Heber watched for the first few hits but he caught on soon enough. After a few catches himself, he pouted and tattled on the kid who caught the ball if it wasn't him. Way to be a good sport Hebe

I was one proud mamma to say the least. Since the time we found out we were having a boy I have been looking forward to this day.

Daddy seemed to enjoy it as well, even if "baseball is lame."

As I was pushing Heber on the swing in the back yard after the game he said to me,

"I had a great time mom.......I did a great job huh"

Yes babe, you did!

How do I love thee

2009-06-28T17:19:00.005-04:00

So, today in primary, Heber's name was finally pulled from the helper jar and he got to find one of the 7 pictures in the room that the chorister had hidden. Because he found the picture that coincided with the first line of the song we were learning, he got to go up first. After about the 5th picture came up, little Hebe's arms started wearing out. Being the genius child that he is, he used the tape stuck on the back to attach the picture of Jesus with the children to his face. It looked so dang funny. You couldn't see his face at all, just his body sticking out from under it standing perfectly still with his hands resting reverently at his sides.

Luckily, none of the other kids in the room noticed right away or there would have been complete pandemonium. I could not compose myself long enough to go up there and encourage him to remove the picture from his face. All I could think of, as I tried like crazy to stifle my laughter, was the expression that must covereing his face behind the picture.

He reminded me today of one of the many reasons I love being his mom. After he finally decided to cooperate and hold his picture up high for all to see, I sat there and marveled at how big he is getting and felt that lump forming in my throat that sneaks up on me once in a while during one of these mommy moments.

I love you Heber. Thank you for always finding a way to put a smile on my face.

At the beach.....or something like that!

2009-06-24T07:11:00.003-04:00

Heber kept telling us that he "lubs going to the beach" as he played in the water table. I don't know for sure if he has been to the beach so few times that he really has no idea what it is, or if he was dropping some serious hints as he tried to cool off in the backyard.I am sure that there is a lake or two near northeast Ohio (ha ha) but we would much rather take a trip to Bear Lake. Oh how we miss you Idaho!

And were outta here

2009-06-03T08:15:00.002-04:00

Heber's last day of preschool was last Thursday. I really wish this picture would have turned out a little better. I could tell the second I took it that it was blurry but Hebe just couln't be bothered with standing still for one more minute while his friends were building the ultimate block tower across the room.

These 3 ladies were phenominal and I am so happy that Heber got to share his first school experience with them. We will sure miss Mrs. Sliman, Mrs. Whal, and Mrs. Bickart, and all our friends from room 5 this summer. We hope we can steal a hug or twenty as we walk by to our new classroom and new teachers next fall.

You've had a BIRTHDAY

2009-06-01T07:10:00.007-04:00

shout HOORAY

We want to sing to you today

One year older and wiser too
Happy Birthday..to you!

Happy 4th birthday Heber!!

I am a little slow getting this posted.....in fact, Heber has been 4 years old for a week and 2 days now. He had a great birthday. To start the day off, he got to go to Toys R Us and spend his birthday money from the Grandmas and Grandpas. He bought a remote control WallE that is way beyond his years....we tried to talk him into something else but it is impossible to say no to a blue-eyed birthday boy. He chose a corn dog and fries "to take home" from Sonic for his birthday lunch and was happy as ever about the prize that came with it....."they gave me a happy dirthday too!" Then we had a few friends over for dinner and cake (which by the way I think should qaulify me as a professional decorator...haha!)

Little Grandpa

2009-05-19T10:45:00.003-04:00

Of my many memories of my Grandpa Smith, this is one of my favorites. I loved to watch Little Grandpa (named so by the great grandkids) smile that crooked grin each time that he saw them.

As you can see, Heber enjoyed the little bits of time that he got to know Little Grandpa personally. He didn't get these moments very often with Grandpa Smith, only just a handfull of them. Maybe some of the things I remember most about this great man will help my little man fill in the gaps that are left when we have to say goodbye to someone special so soon in our young lives.

So, this is for you Heber:

1. Little Grandpa is perhaps remembered most for the tantrums he could throw when something was going wrong with the farm equipment. I think each one of us grandkids got to witness at least one of these episodes when grandma would send us outside to take him a glass of water to "cool him off" as he tinkered around with the broken down bail wagon. You see Hebe, we come by this honestly.

2. Little Grandpa had a very funny little laugh. He didn't use it often but when he did it could always bring a chuckle out in me as well.

3. Little Grandpa was a great storyteller. If you could catch him on the right day he would captivate you with stories from his childhood, from serving in World War II, and from being married and raising 4 kids of his own.

4. Little Grandpa loved Grandma Geniel. Though I was young, I remember several occasions that I got to witness a very special look on his face as he watched his sweetheart from across the room.

5. Little Grandpa was stubborn. There was no convincing this man to do anything he didn't want to do. You can thank him for this trait as well buddy.

6. Though little Grandpa wasn't one to show a lot of affection, there was never any question that he loved us and took pride in us. This was made evident by the bulletin board plastered with pictures that hung wherever he lived. More than once he slipped coins in my pocket without mom seeing, for a book at the book fair, and he was always willing to share an orange stick or a bowl of mint chocolate chip icecream that grandma kept in the icebox. Hugs from Grandpa Smith didn't come often, but I will always cherish the times that they did.

7. I will never be able to see a hat (like the one seen above) and not think of little Grandpa. I remember seeing this hat hang on the pegs by the back door when he joined us for Thanksgiving dinner or any other afternoon meal.

Today we said goodbye to our Little Grandpa Smith. His memory will live on in me and I hope it will in you. He is not the great grandpa you were named for Heber, but you certainly have a lot of him in you.

I will miss you Grandpa Smith. Thanks for these memories and the many that have gone unmentioned. I was with you in heart today and look forward to the time I shall see you again.

Playtime

2009-05-10T17:53:00.005-04:00

Luckily for Heber and I, the Cleveland Clinic is just down the road from a fun little childrens museum. The day after Ben had his surgery, Heber and I let grandma stay and catch up with daddy for a few hours and we escaped the hospital to go have a little bit of fun.

Hebe has been such a good boy through all of this.......he needed a little time to just be a 3 year old and have a little fun. As you can see, the driving exhibits were a big hit.

I don't know for sure why one would need goggles to shop at the grocery store but they sure seemed to be doing the trick. We even managed to find a little bit of water fun. There is a great water table at the museum. Heber liked it until the pipes he was fitting together made a fountain that splashed him in the face.

This was the highlight of the day for both of us. I loved watching Heber discover his face on the TV screen. As you can see, he found more than just his face......"So You Think You Can Dance" here we come!!

Four feet less..

2009-05-03T14:23:00.007-04:00

One of these things is not like the other.....one of these things just isn't the same Ben was diagnosed 6 months ago with ulcerative colitis. This is a chronic, often genetic, condition that is an inflammatory bowel disease. There will be periods of time when it will be in remission and not bother him at all, and then there are periods of time when it will flare up and cause him extreme discomfort and all kinds of unpleasant side effects.

We think he has actually had UC for several years now, but, since doctors are invincible, or at least they like to think they are, it took a really rotten flare up and a persistant co-worker to finally convince him that he needed to be seen.

About 8 weeks ago he started in with another flare up and it just got progressivley worse, despite Ben's and his doctors best efforts to treat it. We knew that at some point in his life this disease would require surgery but we felt like we would exhaust all medical treatment options first.

After swallowing about 17 pills per day, several very unpleasnt scopes, and 3 trips to the ER in a matter of 8 days with no relief in sight, Ben was admitted to the hospital here locally until a bed became available at the Cleveland Clinic......12 hours later he was on his way.

The doctor who performed his surgery is literally one of the best in the country. He was one doctor of a small team who pioneered the procedure about 10 years ago at the clinic.

The whole process will occur in three steps, the first (actually removing the entire colon and the rectum) took place on Thursday. After a 6 week recovery he can return to work.

The last two procedures will occur in about 6 months. Hopefully then Ben will remember what it means to feel good.

Here he is sleeping comfortably with the little man about 2 hours before surgery.

To be continued.....

2009-04-23T21:23:00.005-04:00

Tonight I had the pleasure of watching my little boys face as he listened to his dad tell him a story about two little boys named Johnny and Bubba. As per Heber's request, the story came complete with a scary house, creaky doors and floors, a stray cat or two, and a big fat red-eyed rat!

Unfortunately, Heber fell asleep before the story was finished......I don't know if I can handle the suspense!

AHHHHHHRRRRGGGGGG!!!!!

2009-03-25T21:48:00.000-04:00

Luckily I had saved my blogroll.....now I get to put everything back in it's place. Oh the price we pay when we play!

Knock Knock

2009-03-18T08:34:00.000-04:00

Heber and shared this wonderful exchange last night:

Heber: Knock Knock!
Me: Who's there?

Heber: ME (walks away giggling)

Last Friday Ben and I cashed in on his Christmas gift and went to a Brian Regan comedy show in Cleveland. We had a great time and laughed until we were sick.

I am sorry to say though Brian, you've got nothing on my Heber.....this kid knows how to tell a joke!!

Can't we all just GET ALONG

2009-03-04T07:04:00.000-05:00

I learned another lesson today from my 3-year-old about why we have been asked to "become as a little child"

I walked up the stairs and heard some very loud playing coming from Heber's toy room. I peeked my head around the corner and observed silently as the following scene unfolded.

Heber sitting on the floor playing with his batman toys. Batman, on a motorcycle, in one hand, and Joker, in the batmobile, in the other. The next thing I see is the 2 toys racing toward one another at full speed (or at least as fast as his little hands could go) and there is an expolsive crash of plastic and bodies go flying everywhere!! Heber immediately jumps up and grabs Robin, (the innocent bystander) who runs first to Joker:

Robin: Joker, are you okay? Oh, I hope you are okay!!!!!
Joker: Yes I am fine but we have to get Batman.

The two of them run to where Batman is by the ballpit:

Joker: Batman, I am so sorry!! I not meanin to crash you!!
Batman: I'm happy to see you Joker. I love Joker and Robin.
Robin: Hello Batman. Let's go play with Joker.

I think that all played out quite nicely don't you? I wish he could always see the world in this light.

Tagged by Natalie

2009-02-19T19:29:00.000-05:00

Here are the Rules:
1)Post rules on your blog
2)Answer the six "8" items

8 Favorite TV Shows:
1. Greys Anatomy
2. Criminal Minds
3. CSI: NY
4. Private Practice
5. ER
6. Scrubs
7. Amazing Race
8. The Office

8 Things I did Yesterday:
1. Played with friends (both me and Heber)
2. Got my hair cut and colored
3. Filled the car with gas (and it didn't cost me a penny.....I love you Giant Eagle!!)
4. Rushed home to make the beds and clean the living room before Ben got home
5. Made tacos for dinner
6. Laundry
7. Read stories to Heber
8. Watched Criminal Minds

8 Things I'm Looking Forward To:
1. The end of residency (3.5 more years to go)
2. Dayna's wedding (Ben's sis just got engaged)
3. Brian Regan show in 2 weeks
4. Seeing the movie "Angels and Demons" in May
5. March of Dimes "March for Babies"
6. Heber's birthday.....I will finally have an excuse to spoil the kid
7. Visiting family
8. Going to Chicago next month

8 Favorite Restaurants:
1. Ruby Tuesdays (I love the Typhoon Shrimp)
2. El Garon
3. Old Carolina
4. Bajios
5. Macaroni Grill
6. Chopstix (the local chinese takeout just down the street..mmmm!)
7. Red Robin
8. Taco truck (there was the yummiest mexican food vendor that used to park at Cal Ranch in Pocatello....I miss those spicy pork burritos wrapped in tinfoil)

8 Things on My Wish List:
1. Nikon D-60
2. New dining room table with plenty of seating
3. Cricuit expressions
4. Chevy Tahoe
5. Riviera cruise with Ben
6. Airfare to Idaho
7. Financial freedom (med school killed us)
8. Finishing my education

8 People I Tag:
1. Sari David
2. Ashlee Phelps
3. Kym Schaad
4. Mandy Smith
5. Lisa Hillier
6. Jamie Robinson
7. Tara Carr
8. Jen Allred

I will spare you this one Danette.....I know how much you love to be TAGGED!!!

A spoonful of HEAVEN

2009-02-18T08:39:00.000-05:00

The other day I came downstairs after completing a lightning speed shower (that is how they have to be these days with Heber perusing the house unattended) to find my little man perched on the couch in his usual spot with a spoon sticking out of his mouth and a brand new jar of peanut butter sitting in between his indian style legs. I moved closer to investigate and found that he had eaten quite a few spoonfuls already. He pulled the aforementioned tool out his mouth and smiled up at me......a mouth full of "yummy"

Of course I ran to get my camera but by the time I got back he had put the peanut butter, spoon and all, on the counter and had returned to his "tb" watching.

I couldn't believe that this was the peanut butter I had just purchased the day before so I looked everywhere for the foil seal that is on a new jar. Not only did he get the jar off the top shelf in the pantry and open the lid by himself, he removed the foil seal and threw it in the garbage, then retrieved the spoon from the drawer, and the rest is history.

Can you belive he managed to do all that and all this (see below) in 5 minutes?
This one is a kid after his grandmas heart!!

TAG

2009-02-16T16:10:00.000-05:00

Okay, so Danette didn't tag anyone specifically but I liked the picture I found and thought I would join in on this one.

1. Go to my documents/pictures
2. Go to my 6th file folder.
3. Go to my 6th picture.
4. Blog about it.
5. Tag 6 people to do the same

DoG dAyS of SUMMER (oh how we long for you!!)

Everyone in OH knows that August is a month of high heat and heavy humidity....or at least it seems that way to a western desert girl.

What could be better than playing out in the blazing heat, eating a chocolate, and then curling up on the sticky hot leather sofa with juice cup in hand and the trusty blue blanky close by?

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T21:52:00.000-05:00

We had a valentine party for the little kids at church on Wednesday. They had a great time decorating their bags and then passing out their valentines. Heber didn't quite get it though, and instead of leaving his bag in one place so everyone could drop something in it, he ran around with it and put his own valentines inside instead of sharing with everyone else.

Thanks Cameron for the best valentine card ever.......Heber has carried this around with him since he opened it.

Church VD party + School VD party = ALOT of GOODIES!!

a whole lot of LOVIN goin on

2009-02-14T12:51:00.000-05:00

Heber and I had a great time making valentines for everyone this year. We went to the family fun website and Heber pointed out which ones he wanted to make. I think they all turned out very fun.

For our primary and nursery friends at playgroup

For my teachers at school....complete with Raspberry Hot Cocoa and a mini bag of Marsmellows

And for my friends at preschool......these were our favorite valentines to make.

Counting my BLESSINGS

2009-02-06T08:32:00.000-05:00

It's not that unusual, when everything is

beautiful,

it's just another ordinary

miracle

today.

-Sarah McClachlan

This morning as Heber lay in my lap we had a conversation that went something like this:

Heber (holding 2 batteries): I have 3 batteries.

Me: You have 2 batteries.

Heber: Yep, I have 2 batteries (trying to hold up 3 fingers)

Me (showing him how to use 2 fingers and then 3 fingers): This is 2 and this is 3, you are 3 years old.

Heber: No, I am Heber John Olson.

Me: How old are you Heber?

Heber: Heber John Olson.....How old are you mama?

Me: I am 29 years old.

Heber (giggling now): No, you're Rachel.

Me: Yes I am Rachel and I am 29 years old.

Heber: No, you are just Rachel John Olson

Me: Are you sure?

Heber: No, I am Heber!

Is it SPRING yet??

2009-01-17T17:01:00.000-05:00

It takes more than 6 inches of cold snow on the ground to take Heber's eyes off of the swingset outside. It's a tough job, but somebody has go to do it!
After working very hard to clean that slide off I finally got to enjoy a great ride to the bottom. The only landing spot that could be any better than a pile of cold snow is a big muddy puddle!!

These pictures were taken earlier this week before we reached arctic -32 degrees temperatures. I think we have finally found the key to keeping Heber off of the slide.....I would play on the swingset all day though if we could only just be warm!!

Got Chips?

2009-01-15T16:46:00.000-05:00

This morning as I was driving Heber to school he asked me if I was going to work while he was at school. I told him that I was going to the grocery store to get food for dinner. He thought that was a great idea and then changed the subject. Once at school, we took off the many layers of extra clothing outside his classroom and I hugged him goodbye as his teacher welcomed him into the room. He started to walk away and then stopped and leaned backwards so I could see only the top half of his body in the doorway and said "GET CHIPS!!"

Where did this kid come from anyway?

Caution: Blogger Working

2009-01-14T19:51:00.000-05:00

So as you can see, we are under construction. I have decided to try a few new looks and in the process have had to have a few things removed until I can put them back where I want them. Please don't mind the mess and check back often!

Reasons

2009-01-09T15:30:00.000-05:00

Top 10 reasons for loving Heber:
(at least for today anyway!)

1. Just look at that face!

2. He says things like "whats coming this noise?" (what is that noise?) and "oh, I sawey" (oh, I'm sorry).

3. He wanders around all day singing to himself or anyone that will listen...his current favorite is still Jingle Bells. He is especially great at throwing in that "HEY" after singing "one horse open sleigh."

4. He loves to be read to at night.

5. He is a major tease....getting Ben's goat is on his daily agenda.

6. He makes every day an adventure complete with sword fights, gun shootouts, wrestelmania, basketball finals, car races, tower construction, couch sailing (they do make great boats), bat and snake safaris, and at least one chance a day to save the world as one of the many superheros taking over his toy room.

7. He gives me hugs and kisses at the doorway to his classroom when I drop him off and pick him up.

8. He burrows into his covers at night so far that you can barely see the top of his little head.

9. He never gives up (even when mom and dad are threatening time out....or the many other means of discipline we have exhausted).

10. He is a miniature version of his father.....what is not to love about that?!

This was a close call.....

2008-11-07T08:08:00.000-05:00

but we are so lucky to have a doctor in the family. Heber's stretchy bat avoided a one way trip to the garbage can with mere seconds to spare. It had a hole in it and kept spilling its contents (ya know those little staticky balls in a bean bag) all over the house.

Heber told me it had a boo boo and needed to see a doctor. Well what do you know, we have one of those right here. Heber got a kick out of watching his daddy take such great care as he sutured the bat back together again.

We Voted

2008-11-05T07:03:00.000-05:00

Heber and I strolled over to the church by our house yesterday to cast our vote for the next president of the United States.

You can see who Heber's choice was.......I agree, Lightning McQueen is the best choice!

"Say Trick or Treat"

2008-11-04T16:58:00.000-05:00

Look at all these goods!! He got pretty good at saying "say trick or treat" (It is so funny when they copy you word for word). You won't believe this but he has not asked for one peice of candy since we got home on Friday night. I haven't even hidden the bucket. I don't know who is eating it all, but it is almost gone!! Heber has never been one to wear a costume (or pants and socks and shoes for that matter) so we didn't plan too much in the way of a Halloween getup. On Wednesday night at the ward trunk or treat we made him a Boise State fan (which was not received well among all of the Ohio State fans). He got a little jealous once he saw all the other kids in costumes and decided he wanted to dress up too. His timing couldn't have been better. On Thursday the Power Ranger was 80% off at Disney Store!

Pagers at 5:00 a.m.

2008-10-24T08:08:00.000-04:00

There is something about listening to your husband (who is sitting on the stairs so he doesn't wake you) talk to someone on the phone who just had major shoulder surgery that makes you fall in love all over again!

Ben was trying to explain to this man's wife how to adjust the wedge pillow and sling straps so he would be more comfortable. Then I heard him reassuring the man that he was not a wimp and that he had just had a major surgery.

I love it when I get the chance to observe Ben's work. He is so good at what he does and is so great to the men and women who depend on him for their own health.

I only wish he was so nice to Heber and I if we wake him up at 5 in the morning!! Corny as this will sound to you Ben, we love you and appreciate everything you do to be great at your job, both in the hospital and in our home.

He listens so well

2008-09-17T07:26:00.000-04:00

I told Heber it was time to get dressed for school. His new thing is picking his clothes out by himself. I told him to pick something warm because it was kind of cold outside. This is what he came out wearing. Hey.....he did get the hat.....thats good for something right!!

NOW He knows!

2008-09-13T08:02:00.000-04:00

So, as it turns out, we have a little artist on our handsWouldn't you know, that sooner or later he would decide those crayons on the very TOP shelf of his toy closet would be fun to play with. I have tried and tried to get him to color on paper with me......I didn't know we just needed to color on the walls for him to be interested. He is very good.......don't ya think!!
It is still yet to be determined how he retrieved those crayons from the very TOP shelf. So this is something you don't discuss with a 3-year-old like mine until you have to. We never told Heber "don't color on the walls" because that would have just given him the idea.

I made him clean away for a while with the clorox wipe and then I stepped in with the Magic Eraser (which I keep on hand at all times in bulk) and helped him. He was relieved to say the least. I was actually very proud of how I handled this little situation. I gave him the benefit of the doubt.......if it happens again however........!!!!!

"You comin scoo with me?"

2008-09-02T22:04:00.000-04:00

So today was Heber's great big day! He was so thrilled with his "packback for scoo" that he wanted it on as soon as he woke up. "Hmmm.....do I really want to go in those doors?"
Luckily for Heber red robot got to accompany him to take all those worries away.

I thought this picture turned out so cute. I begged and pleaded with him to turn around but he would not, so I settled for what I could get......I actually like this one best.

All tuckered out! One hour of school is enough to make anyone sleepy! This is Heber's new "cat" napping spot.

He was such a big boy today and I am so proud of him. He walked right in and took off his backpack, said hello to his teacher, waved bye to mom, and ran in just like he had done it every day of his life.

I on the other hand had one very large lump in my throat as I walked down the hallway to a room for other moms just like me referred to as "comfort corner." Since the kids started with only an hour of school today instead of their normal 2.5 hour day they had a room set up with goodies for the parents. I was grateful to be able to stay so close, though he did not need me at all, and get a chance to meet some of the other moms from his classroom.

Lets all cross our fingers and pray that Thursday will go as well as today!

Handsome Heber

2008-08-30T09:44:00.000-04:00

Heber was so proud to wear a tie and a belt to church just like his daddy!

Paisley Party 2008

2008-08-30T08:28:00.000-04:00

Ben and I celebrated the end of double ortho call with Brad Paisley.....so much fun!!!
We had such great seats. Last time we saw him was at the same venue and we were out on the lawn getting rained on....this time we were in the un-cheap seats.....I serioiusly could not hear myself screaming.

This cuter than ever couple was in the row just in front of us. They were smiling and dancing the whole time. I hope Ben and I are that cool someday! Brad and Jewel. She opened for him along with Julianne Hough and Chuck Wicks. The whole night was great. Jewel was far better than I expected her to be even though I have always loved her.
Got Yodle? She was amazing! Everyone needs to push play!!

Defined

2008-08-14T11:08:00.000-04:00

Perfect Summer Day (per-fikt sum-mer da) : Sitting outside underneath Grandpa's great big apple trees with cousins eating a nice cold Scooby "Doob" push up.

What could possibly be any better than this???

REFRESHING

2008-08-07T08:15:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we went swimming at a wading pool with some friends. Heber had so much fun. He kept giving me that very thankful look, you know the one that is just screaming out.....FINALLY, YOU ARE GETTING ME OUT OF THE HOUSE!!

Isaac, Heber, and Kaleb (dressed to the hilt). I am pretty sure that Isaac is helping his little guy there to take a dive and there is Heber running off with somebody's water shoe.

"I am going to splash and splash and splash Tucker whether he likes it or not!! Look at all my great tools. He doesn't stand a chance!"

I really don't know how these two little guys survived without each other before we moved to OH...grantid they were both only 2 months at the time, but they were just meant to be friends.

Oops.......I didn't think about putting sunscreen DOWN THERE!!! I am sure he will just love me for this one someday. Too cute to resist!

Should I really do this?!!

2008-07-29T16:26:00.000-04:00

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I (Ben or Rach) had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

Lead me, guide me, walk beside me

2008-07-25T07:48:00.000-04:00

Ben's little sister took these pictures last fall and I came across this one as I was playing around last night. These two guys are my best buddies. How cute are they!!!!

If the shoe fits

2008-07-24T21:37:00.000-04:00

Heber for the last while has been obsessed with wearing other peoples shoes. On a daily basis I am finding him in both Ben's closet and my closet trying on shoes. Until our trip home, his favorite pair to wear and try to walk around the house in, were my wedged, strappy sandals with enough lift to make help me stand at Ben's shoulders (ha ha). Imagine my relief when he took such a liking to grandpa's famous boots while we were in Idaho.

I don't think there is a kid yet in our family who has not had to try on Grandpa's boots (including myself). Thanks Dad for giving us these great big shoes to fill......we sure love you and are grateful for all that you are and all that you do. We sure hope you have a very Happy Birthday!

Wait......will somebody please help me up!!!

Heber and Rachel give it TWO THUMBS UP

2008-07-23T18:08:00.000-04:00

Heber and I went on a "mommy and me" date today and saw Space Chimps. We each gave it 2 thumbs up. I enjoyed watching him respond to this movie......it was fun to hear all the kids laughing!

We even had time afterward to play a few video games. He has no idea you have to put money in these ones yet!

Natures swimming pool

2008-07-11T10:20:00.000-04:00

Heber and Houston...same blood....different last names....TWO PEAS IN A POD

Aaahhh......could life get any better than this?
Did somebody say Cheetos?

We have been to Bear Lake a couple of times on our visit home. This last time we went with Ben's sister and her kids for Hollis's birthday. We had a great time while we were there but we are paying greatly for it now.

Word to the wise.......check the expiration date on your sunblock!!

Great Idaho Pastime

2008-07-11T10:09:00.000-04:00

I'm goin fishin..I'm goin fishin..I'm goin fishin hey, hey, hey, hey!
(I think this is actually supposed to be a song about a dollar)

C'mon already fish, get on my line.

My brother and his daughter came to Idaho for the 4th of July weekend. We all loaded up and went to the reservoir to try our hands at some fishing. This was Heber's first time. He had his own little Diego fishing pole and loved that he got to be just like the big boys.

I think he takes after his daddy though. None of this live bait fishing where you let the worm sink and just sit there and wait. He kept casting his line out and realing it in as fast as he could.

"Get me a fly rod daddy!!!"

Slip and Slide Idaho style

2008-07-08T12:36:00.000-04:00

Run, Run, Run, Run, Run............"How long should I run?"
and F I N A L L Y the SLIDE
Now just sit back and relax with the guys

My sister has this great yard and a super long peice of tarp purchased solely for the sheer enjoyment of water fun. With a big black tarp, water, and a little dish soap, the kids were entertained for hours!

We have been having so much fun in Idaho with family and friends. Sorry for the lack of pictures. I will have a lot of catching up to do.

We miss you daddy and are counting the days until next Monday!

All by myself

2008-06-13T09:02:00.000-04:00

See mom!!!! I told you I could do it. (Why are my clothes fitting so strange all of a sudden?)

Buy me some peanuts and cracker jacks.....

2008-06-12T07:06:00.000-04:00

Notice the ball glove on his hand all ready to go!
Heber's first ballpark hotdog

At the end of May we were given the chance to go to another Indians game (a BIG thanks to Dr. Shay) and decided we would take Heber along with us this time. He loved the game and was really a trooper even though it was freezing cold. We had great seats and great company. I can't think of a better way to spend a frigid Cleveland evening!

We miss you Kylan, Danette, and Keion. Thanks for spending one of your last nights in Ohio with us.

And then he was 3

2008-06-11T15:13:00.000-04:00

Heber had a great 3rd birthday. We ate chinese food with his favorite Chicken Lo Mein and then opened his family gifts (thanks everyone) and topped it all off with birthday cake. He wishes everyday he could open presents and eat cake.

Aarrghhh!

2008-06-11T08:04:00.000-04:00

Heber wanted a pirate party for his 3rd birthday. I had a lot of fun with the invitations!

Here is my own little captain Jack. Of course he woudn't wear it when all of his friends arrived.
I learned very quickly that I will never do a planned out party with games and the whole 9 yards for 3-year-olds ever again. They had a ball playing in Heber's playroom with all of his toys. Most of the games got swashbuckled (ha ha) and we just let them enjoy each other.

Has anyone seen Heber???

2008-06-03T08:53:00.000-04:00

I swear this is what he looked like the other day after we got him out of the sand volley ball pit at Sluggers and Putters. I am still cleaning sand out of the bathtub!

We had a great day of mini golf, water boats and racecars with the Allreds. The kids topped it all off with some sand angels while the guys hit "alot of balls" in the batting cages. Who knew you didn't have to insert all 4 tokens at once!!!!

More pictures of our fun Saturday to come. I accidentally left my camera in Ammon's stroller.

Happy Birthday Turtle!

2008-05-23T16:39:00.000-04:00

Where does all the time go? Just three years ago today Heber joined our family. He is such a blessing. This little turtle can bring out the laughter and the tears in me on a daily basis. I love this kid and cannot imagine my life (well, maybe an hour or two) without him. Happy birthday baby. I love you!

I wish everyday were SUNDAY

2008-05-19T07:38:00.000-04:00

Since Heber is now a "big boy" and "naps are for babies," he thinks he no longer needs one. We look forward to Sundays at our house......for some reason our big boy decides to crash and allow the house to be quiet for a couple of hours. I couldn't resist these pictures. I took his Sunday clothes off and went up to get some other "Sunday clothes" and found this when I got back down the stairs. I don't know what they are doing in nursery but they need to share their tricks!

Mommy's Boy

2008-04-28T14:39:00.000-04:00

The only thing that could have possibly made this kid any cuter would be a Yankees cap on his head! He and I are going to be great friends!!!1

2008-04-28T14:15:00.000-04:00

I have now decided that Little Gym is worth every penny!!! Heber has a little friend that goes to gym class with him who has a wealthy mommy and daddy if you know what I mean. She asked me if Ben and I wanted 2 of their season tickets to the Indians game for last Friday. We nabbed them up in a hurry (Big THANKS to Danetter for keeping the little guy) so we could go and watch my YANKEES lose from some really really great seats. We were right behind homeplate about 15 rows from the field.

We had a lot of fun, though Ben detests baseball, and even got to enjoy some great fireworks after the game.

You want me to do what?

2008-04-17T07:06:00.000-04:00

So, I did this totally silly thing and signed myself up for a Zumba class. I thought to myself, "self, you are an okay dancer.....this will be a fun way to get back into it and shed some pounds."

HA ,HA, HA , WHAT THE HECK WAS I THINKING???????

I am just 100% positive my body was not meant to move that way. Hopefully by the end of this class I will be able to at least move my hips a little more effortlessly and not look like such an idiot!

I did get a great pair of shoes out of the deal though. ben got me these dance shoes for my birthday. Aren't they cute?!

Preschool politician

2008-04-17T06:51:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we found a preschool for my little man. Starting September 2, I will have 2.5 hours of freedom for 2 days a week!!!!! Actually, the truth of it is, is that I am already starting to feel anxious about this. I will hate having him away from me for a little bit I am sure but it will be wonderful for both of us in the long run.

Thanks to Jen and several other ladies who spoke so highly of this school I decided to check it out. I immediately had that feeling that this was right when I met the administrator and the lady who will be his teacher.

Heber even stuck out his little hand and shook their hands to say hello. They both thought it was hilarious........I guess we can either assume he is a future bishop or politician.

Little Moments

2008-04-07T07:31:00.000-04:00

Last night I took Heber up to his room to begin the task of getting him to sleep at a reasonable time. We finished our third story and I could tell he was tired. I shut off his lamp and gave him kisses. He reached his little arm around my neck and pulled me in like he was going to reciprocate. The little tease!!! He loves to play and joke and delights in the reaction he gets from mom and dad when we realize the kiss is not really going to happen. I could not help but giggle as his eyes were literally only half open but he was still trying to play.

I finally composed myself enough to sing. Thank-you to Great Grandpa/Grandma Kunz, the song Love At Home has become a staple in my life. I like to sing it to Heber at bedtime each night. He laid there all snuggled up under the covers, barely awake, and sang the whole song with me. My giggles turned into tears. It was all I could do to finish. I am grateful for these little moments when he actually lets me feel like I am doing something Right.

For mature eyes only!!!!!

2008-03-18T09:01:00.000-04:00

The other day I was chatting with my mom and she was telling me about a new "Gabrielism" to add to my list of funny things kids say. My nephew, Gabe, has always got something to say that leaves us all in stitches.

The other night he was in the bath tub and called out for his mom. When she entered the bathroom he told her he had somthing serious to ask her. Now just imagine how you would react if your 4-year-old repeated this to you......."When are these BEANS going to change to BALLS?" I can just picture that cute little blonde-hair, blue-eyed, kid saying it. This one will be added to the classics!

Thanks Gabers for the laugh!

Hey Ashlee....bring your flip flops to OH!!!

2008-03-08T16:37:00.000-05:00

As if "springing forward" this weekend isn't bad enough. We had an absolutely beautiful day on Monday and then from Tuesday forward it just progressively got worse. How do you go from riding your bike around all day with a hoodie on to this in less than 5 days????

It started snowing yesterday (Friday) somewhere in the early morning hours and really has not let up yet (it is now Saturday 5:00 pm) and is supposed to keep going until 4:00 am tomorrow. The national weather service was predicting between12 and 18 inches of snow this weekend.....I would say we are definately on the upper end of those numbers and still going. What the world...we want to hunt Easter eggs in the park next weekend!

A Lesson Learned

2008-03-04T23:30:00.000-05:00

So if you all have about 10 minutes to spare I highly recommend watching this video clip from a recent Oprah show. Maybe some of you have seen it already as it has been circulating around and downloaded hundreds of thousands of times......if you haven't, it is most definately worth your time.

Identity Crisis

2008-03-01T20:33:00.000-05:00

ME: Hey cool glasses, what is your name?

HEBER: My name Heber.

ME: You look like Buzz Lightyear.

HEBER: To infinity and beyond!

ME: You make a good Buzz.

HEBER: NO!!!!! My name Heber.

ME: Heber what?

HEBER: Heber Spiderman

ME: Your name is Heber John Olson.

HEBER: No, Heber spiderman. ROAR !!!!

Shhhhh......Daddy's sleeping!

2008-02-18T14:51:00.000-05:00

Thank goodness for the snow we got last week. Of course it is all gone now but it sure was a lifesaver when it fell. Ben started his month of nights a week ago yesterday and Heber has had a hard time adjusting to staying (relatively) quite while his daddy sleeps during the day. You can only go to McDonalds so many times.

Best Buddies

2008-02-07T18:11:00.000-05:00

Heber and Caleb are not quite a month apart. Caleb was actually born when Heber was supposed to be. They are the best of friends at church and during playgroup.

Happy Chinese New Year

2008-02-07T10:51:00.000-05:00

The Year of the Rat

Being born under this sign determines many talents, as well as other characteristics that may not be so commendable. Rats are very lively and need a lot of mental and physical stimulation. They can be calm and perceptive, but sometimes their brains can cause a mental restlessness, tempting them to take on too much, only to discover they are unable to meet their commitments. Rats are blessed with one of the best intellects going. Add to their intelligence a curiosity and a bright imagination, and they seem as sharp as a needle.The sign of the Rat is the first sign in the cycle giving Rat people exude great leadership qualities and are good at taking the lead. They don't mind a lot of responsibility and they demonstrate a strong presence that other people respect. For those with the Rat nature, status and monetary satisfaction are the greatest motivation.

Happy Chinese New Year Daren, Francias, and Whitney. We love you!

The 2 Men in My Life

2008-01-30T16:37:00.000-05:00

Could there be anything better than walking in a room and finding the two men in your life reading a story in front of the fire? The day I first realized I loved this man I didn't imagine that I could possibly love him anymore than I did at that moment. Well, there have been many times since that day that have proven this thought false.........I think this one is a chart topper!

I'm It!

2008-01-29T06:42:00.000-05:00

A. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.
B. Each player answers the questions for themselves.
C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

Ten Years Ago:
1. I was recovering from having my ACL, MCL, and medial meniscus repaired-hence, the cheerleading that I was doing my senior year of high school came to a screeching halt (I wish I had a cool story to go along with this injury like maybe I saved another girls life as she was fallling off the top, but really I was just showing off with my really great high kicks!).
2. I came to the conclusion that college was going to be placed on hold and began meeting families in NY, NJ, and CT that I would possibly nanny for.
3. I was taking my "Dean" and placing him adoringly in the corner of my bedroom to admire over and over again. Thank you to my favorite ever english teacher.
4. And, I have to throw this one in for Adam......camping with my best friends on the lawn of the high school before gradation most definately takes the cake for year 1998!

Five Things On My To-Do List Today:
1. Aroebic conditioning for chix (I will be there today ladies....I have run out of good excuses!).
2. McDonalds date with Heber.
3. Return library books, and pay a "hefty" late fee.
4. I get to play with my little guy today since my hubby cleaned the "whole" house on the
weekend........there is still a "little" to do.
5. I get to have my hair cut this evening! HOORAY!!!!

Things I Would Do If I Were Suddenly Made A Billionaire:
Tithing right off the top (that would be a big check), pay off Ben's medical school loans (also a big check), build a surgery center in Jackson Hole so Ben could set up shop, build a "modest" house in or around Jackson Hole so I could set up shop, college education for my kids, spread some love around the family, and I would fly to NY and have one major shopping spree at all of the stores I felt too underdressed to windowshop at when I lived there.

Three Of My Bad Habits:
1. Okay, I will admit it.......BLOGGING. I sometimes forget that I am a mom and a wife when I log in to this little world.
2. I have a big problem with popping joints in my body.....fingers, toes, elbows, wrists, ankles, back, neck. I have this ritual that takes place several times of day. I do stay away from my knees though if that is any consolation.
3. I eat when I am bored or sitting in one place for an "extended" period of time. Yet another reason why #1 is bad for me.

Five Places I Have Lived:
1. Montpelier, ID
2. Garden City, UT
3. Long Island, NY
4. Kirksville, MO
5. Canton, OH

Five Jobs I Have Had:
1. Raspberry picker (I still can't eat the little things).
2. Front desk help at local motel
3. Nanny
4. Pharmacy Technician
5. Medical Transcriptionist

Things Most People Don't Know About Me:
My closet is organized according to sleeve lenth, color, and pattern. All hangers have to be white and all tops have to be placed on the hanger in the same direction, My jeans and pants are also stacked on the shelf above according to brand and color. I am equally as particular about Heber's closet, his toy area, and our pantry.
I have a to do list that I make everyday. If I do something that was not on the list I have to add it to the list so I can check it off.
I really don't think I need to say anymore about things you don't know about me....I assume you can take it from here.

You're It:
Jen, Annie, Sari, and Suzanne

"Try a little harder to be a little better."

2008-01-27T23:08:00.000-05:00

Be Grateful
"Be grateful. Count your blessings and gifts and privileges and see just how long that list is. "

Be Smart
"Learn from other's successes as well as their mistakes. Prepere and school yourself for what lies ahead.....There is no doubt, none whatever, that education pays."

Be Involved
"Be involved in good works. Be willing to work, for it will make all the difference in your life."

Be Clean
"Delight in being clean. Relish the challenge of standing above and beyond the base trends of the world. You will never regret it."

Be True
"Be true to your own convictions. You know what is right, and you know what is wrong. You know when you are doing the proper thing. You know when you are giving strength to the right cause. Be loyal. Be faithul. Be true."

Be Positive
"Cultivate and attitude of optimism. Know that God is watching over you, that He will hear your prayers and will answer them, that He loves you and will make that love manifest."

Be Humble
"Recognize that everything you have-your time, your talents and skills, your health and energy, your accomplishments, and your very lives-come as free gifts from your Father in Heaven. How grateful we ought to be for His goodness to us. How humble we ought to be to think that He knows who we are, and that He is waiting to guide our every step."

Be Still
"Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10)

Be Prayerful
"Prayer will change your life. It will bring you peace. It will give you direction and guidance. It will help you feel that you are not alone in the big and sometimes brutal world. The Lord answers our prayers. I know that. I have seen it happen again and again and again."

There really aren't words enough. He will be missed. I was just thinking about the reunion that is taking place right now and a smile spread across my face though the tears continue to fall. What a comfort it is to know that families are forever.

Winner, winner, winner!

2008-01-27T16:22:00.000-05:00

So while we were on our vacation we frequented the arcade in our hotel. Heber was very passive about playing the games.....he would walk by, drop in a token, push a button, and walk away. This time he hit the jackpot and walked away while I was stuck there by the machine for 35 minutes catching 1227 tickets.

With his winnings here and from the basketball games seen below he was able to collect some great loot from the prize counter. His favorite prize was his Spiderman doll which is now lost. We have looked everywhere to replace it, but not just any old Spidey will do. Looks like we may just have to go back!

Nice Shot!

2008-01-27T16:19:00.001-05:00

Oh where, oh where

2008-01-27T13:57:00.000-05:00

has my Spidey gone? Heber has been nearly devestated for over a week now. His Spiderman went missing in the furniature store when we were looking at couches and after many people searching high and low we have decided to call it off. Poor little Heber. He earned it fair and sqaure with all his tickets won at the arcade on our vacation and now it is gone for good. What is a 2-year-old to do?

I bet he could give his mommy a "big kiss" and maybe even the famous pout to go with it and she might be able to come up with something!

LOSER

2008-01-22T08:09:00.000-05:00

Last night I was giving Heber a bath before bed and ran into his room quick to get his bed ready. When I left him he was experimenting with placing these letters on his belly. When I got back to him this is what I found. I laughed so hard that he actually left it there long enough for me to get a picture. He loves feeling like he is the comedian on center stage so my reaction to this branding absolutely thrilled him.

A work in progress

2008-01-12T19:57:00.000-05:00

So I have learned some new tricks to making my blog fun. I am deciding it is time to pay attention to my child so I am putting the laptop away for a while. I am not done changing things but don't want to have to start over.

Tree Top Play

2008-01-08T14:27:00.000-05:00

After a full day of playing in the water Heber got to enjoy this huge playground after dinner. The picture does it no justice. It was 5 levels high and went in a big circle. In the middle was a room you could go into that had all kinds of machines that you could load foam balls into and shoot them at people. Heber got lost the first time he went in and would only go inside and climb around after that if one of us was with him. It has been a long time since I have played on a playground.

Back to Reality

2008-01-07T19:36:00.000-05:00

Ben got to take the week of New Years off since he had to be at the hospital over Christmas. We had such a great time with friends and with each other. At the end of the week we took Heber to Sandusky to Kalahari (the biggest indoor water park in the country....something like 175,000 sqaure feet of water). We spent 2 nights there and loved watching Heber play more than anything.

Ben had to go back to work this morning and Heber spent most of the day wandering around the house calling his name. We sure appreciate him and all that he does for us. We loved having some undivided time with you.

Little Fish

2008-01-07T19:26:00.000-05:00

Heber absolutely had a blast in the water. He is one that I will have to watch very closely.....he thinks he can swim just like the big boys. He enjoyed the wave pool with his daddy and loved being able to do the slides in the kiddie area all by himself.

Fa la la la la la la la la

2007-12-27T13:53:00.000-05:00

After an early morning awakening, a tantrum or two, and a half time bath, we finally coaxed Heber into opening each of his gifts (about 3 hours later). I don't know if it was because he was told to leave the few presents under the tree alone before Christmas or because he was tired and not accustomed to being SO spoiled (ha ha) that he really had a hard time getting started. As you can see however, once he got going the only coaxing we were doing was trying to pry him away from the gift he had just opened.

He loves his new racetrack. Last year someone left a miniature version on our doorstep for him at Christmastime so we decided to get him the "grown up" version this year. Thank you to whom ever that was because I think it is still his favorite toy and definately the inspiration for his gift from us this Christmas.

My parents gave him Woody and Buzz Lightyear. He loves Toy Story so much that it was only fitting.

Ahh....and nobody worry, here is the much anticipated DRUM.....notice that it is pushed to the side. He has strapped it on plenty of times and marched around beating it to death though.

And there is nothing better after a LONG morning of opening gifts then to curl up under a new blanket (handmade by Grandma Lannie) with a milk and fall asleep.

We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and that this upcoming New Year will bring you much joy and happiness.

And the race is on!

2007-12-17T06:31:00.000-05:00

So we have 1 week until Christmas (looks like someone forgot to remove a couple of links) and I still have so much to do. I am 100% positive I will be standing in line at the post office today for enough time that they could pay me a full days work, and when all is said and done, my family still probably will not get their gifts at all (let alone on time)!

After I get my house clean and my packages sent and, and, and, etc, Heber and I are going to make a gingerbread house. Knowing Heber it will be pretty bare. I think he inherited his sweet tooth from his mama.

Look who finally decided to wear his HALLOWEEN costume!

2007-12-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

Notice the Christmas Tree in the back!

My boys

2007-12-10T21:26:00.000-05:00

I have been trying to organize all of my pictures taken over the last couple of years. I came across this one and couldn't resist. Two peas in a pod!

"No Way Santa Clause!"

2007-12-09T10:51:00.001-05:00

Heber and I went to the mall on Saturday to do some final Christmas shopping. We walked by Santa Clause 4 or 5 times and each time Heber said he didn't want to see him. When I finally thought we were getting out of that place we walked past Santa one last time on our way to the door and Heber suddenly got very excited and said he wanted to see him. I asked him over and over if he wanted to sit on Santa's lap and he said "yep....lap.....Santa Clause" so we waited in line. How can I say no to that cute little face? I knew we would wait forever, which we did (I guess 20 min isn't forever) and we would get to him and Heber would freak out, which he did. As soon as we got to the front of the line Heber flew up in my arms as fast as he could. Santa asked him to sit on his lap and Heber looked at him with his best nursery song frowny face and then said

"NO WAY SANTA CLAUSE!"

He stayed in my arms and then told Santa when he was asked what he wanted for Christmas that he wanted a drum.

WHAT.....this is new to me?

All I have been hearing about for the last 2 months is Cars and Buzz. Hmm......what to do now?

let it SNOW, let it SNOW, let it SNOW

2007-12-06T06:33:00.000-05:00

Oh the weather outside is frightful

But the fire is so delightful

Yesterday I was laying in bed trying to go back to sleep after Ben's alarm went off at some insane time in the morning and thought I heard a snowplow outside. My bed is right by the window, otherwise I would not have done this, so I rolled over and peeked through the blinds. The ground was covered with snow. I was immediately so excited that I jumped out of bed and ran down the stairs to get a bigger picture. I always love the first good snowfall.......it is the subsequent that start to eat away at me one peice at a time!

HAPPINESS

2007-12-04T07:01:00.000-05:00

Heber was absolutely thrilled to see the snow falling yesterday. He even willingly let me put on his hat so he could go outside and play. Notice, no coat....I couldn't negotiate that one. I figured 1 out of 2 was a start and I knew it wouldn't last long without the coat. It was much easier to lure him into the warm car once he had been out in the cold for a minute.

I just loved the sweet looks of wonder and amazement on his cute little face. I find that since I had him I am getting excited about things that I haven't noticed for a long time.

If you chance to meet a frown!

2007-11-27T19:47:00.001-05:00

Christmas came early!

2007-11-26T09:24:00.000-05:00

I feel like there is no greater gift I could be given for Christmas this year than the gift I got this morning. Heber said something to me that I have been waiting for 2.5 years to hear him say and he did it without my prodding.

"I love you" or something like that (I know what he was trying to say) accompanied by a big bear hug. The smile on my face is ear to ear buddy. Thank you for making mommies day!

Looks like McDonalds for you today!

Crazy blogging lady

2007-11-11T16:14:00.000-05:00

We missed stake conference today because Ben was on call and at the hospital this morning doing H&P's and rounding and I couldn't think of any spiritual experience that would come out of driving an hour with Hebe by myself just to walk the halls of the church for 2 hours. I should have actually found something churchy to do, but instead I turned on my laptop and dove in. Heber was engaged with a movie (mimmy mouse for the umteenth time) and I became engulfed with blogger as I started following links to names I recognized from my friends and families blogs. I ended up finding blogs for many fellow Bear Lakers whom I have not seen for the longest time. It was so fun to catch up and see your families and what you are doing. Before I knew it Heber was crawling all over me begging for breakfast (what a good mom) and Ben's housekey was turning the lock.