The Dalton Happenings

The ever changing Jackson.

2012-01-26T12:17:00.003-09:00

This is my sweet little boy who usually wants to help and is so good at helping.
Lately he has turned into this emotional little thing that gets his feelings hurt so easily and cries at the drop of a hat. I am not sure what is going on. For instance today, he put in a Thomas movie and I was skipping the previews to get to the movie and he just pouted up his bottom lip and tears started welling up in his eyes and almost instantly screamed "NO". I didn't understand. I thought he wanted to watch the movie. "why do they put previews on kids movies anyway?" I had to cuddle him for a good 5 minutes and rewind it to the silly previews so he would calm down.
I have never experienced this before so it is new to me on how to handle it. He is mostly a very happy boy, but these moments are so hard. I guess I will just do my best and by the time I figure it out a new stage will come around. :)

It's catch up time!!!

2012-01-20T09:19:00.003-09:00

So we finally got a computer. YAY! Let me just sum up the last 6 months. We moved on September 30th to an apartment in Orem. LOVE IT. It is less expensive rent and utility wise. It is all one level so we don't have to worry about the babies and it actually has enough space for us. We are enjoying our time here so far.

October brought mom's birthday and Kirks birthday. November brought Thanksgiving.

December brought all sorts of holidays/celebrations. Our anniversary is on the 8th which fell on a Thursday this year. Richard had class on Thursdays until 9pm so we couldn't go out that day, so we planned for Saturday the 10th. Lo and behold we both got scheduled to work even after requesting it off so we worked. BLAH! The next day after church we went to Chili's. That was our big 4 year anniversary celebration. :(. The 18th is Jackson's birthday. WE had a wonderful breakfast. (I started a tradition of making a big breakfast with heart shaped pancakes for the birthday person) We spent the day playing games, running around, watching movies, building tracks with cars, eating cake, opening presents. We made finger foods so we could just snack and enjoy one another's company. He really had a wonderful time and it was a perfect birthday. Dec 24, Richard and I worked until about 7ish. We made it home to play some games and eat junk. My favorite part was getting Jackson to bed so Santa could come. :) We put out the presents. It was a very good Christmas this year. The next morning Mom and I woke up around 630 to start all the food. Church was a 11 so we had to get stuff done before the kids woke up. Madison woke up at 730 so we woke up Jackson. Oh man was it so fun watching them open presents. Jackson is finally understanding what's going on so he had a blast. Madison loved her baby doll, she would not let go of it. We ate a wonderful breakfast then all got ready to go to church. They only had sacrament which was nice. The rest of the day was spent setting up the kids new toys and playing, eating and sleeping. We were truly blessed this Christmas. Dec 27 was Madison's birthday. We took her to build-a-bear and got her her very own stuffed animal so she would leave Jackson's alone. She loves it. That night we had cake and ice cream. Also loved that. Needless to say December was a fun filled month.

January brought a new year and lots of changes. Richard started class on the 9th. My schedule changed. Jackson is now "free" years old and he is a changed little man. He is such a helper and always loving on Madison. As of the 10th he has been pacifier free and it is such a difference. He talks so much and is such a happy little boy. We carry on conversations about everything. It is so fun to hear him speak and see him grow. Madison is 1 and she is a little spitfire. She is a very determined little girl. She will not stop until she has what she wants. And she knows what she wants, she won't settle. I love it.

We are currently still waiting for Richards school money (about 2500 dollars). Because of this we experienced a very hard thing yesterday. At 6 AM, Madison woke up (she never wakes up this early). I gave her some milk and changed her diaper. As I walked back to my room, I heard a loud vehicle outside so decided to look. A man was shining a flashlight into our car! I woke up Richard in a panic. We stood on the balcony for a bit and realized he was taking the vehicle. My plan was to catch up on the past due balance with the school money, so we pretty much knew we were screwed when the money didn't show. We ran outside to see if we could get our stuff. He let us. We grabbed everything we could think of. I cried for hours. Mom went to work. Richard walked to class and I slept for 2 hours. I woke up around 11 and started making phone calls. It was then I learned that we were not getting the car back. We had to pay it off in order to get it back (we still owed 20,000 dollars) or get refinanced. Neither one of the options would ever happen so we discussed it and realized this was for the better. The Lord knew our stresses and hearts and knew we didn't really want a $552 car payment so he took it away. They are going to auction it off and we will go from there. I called our insurance and cancelled that, we have $43 coming back (blessing). In the long run this will be worth it. We will have to work really hard to get back on our feet and get a different form of transportation but this is what we have been praying for.

I know the Lord loves us and is watchful over our every need and desire. I am grateful for my family and great friends. Because of Chad and Sara Gibbons, I can now update my blog as often as I would like. Thanks for the computer.

Its summer!

2011-06-24T17:52:00.002-08:00

Happy Summer everyone. I am excited but not excited at the same time for summer to be here. My children love being outside and this is Richards first summer with us so I am thrilled to make memories but because our air conditioner is on the fritz and doesn't make it any cooler than 82 degrees in my house I am not thrilled for the summer.

In May we took Madison for her 4 month appointment. She weighed 16lbs 4 oz and was 26 inches long. Still my big girl. She is in the 75% across the board. We can't get enough of her. Even Jackson adores her. They have a bond that I will never understand. Jackson can get her to laugh harder than anyone and she instantly calms down if he comes near her. She absolutely loves him.

Madison's new accomplishments:
-she can say baa, daa and laa
-she still sleeps 10 hours a night
-she started cereal 3 weeks ago and carrots and sweet potatoes this week.
-she rolls all over the place
-she loves her walker
-she grabs for her toys
-she is starting so scoot
-she responds when you call her name
-she found her feet last week
-she is starting to push herself up on her hands
-she laughs
-she smiles

She is really a wonderful baby. I have been truly blessed with the children I have been allowed to raise.

Two weeks ago we went in for a recertification at WIC. Madison still weighed 16 lbs and Jackson is up to 40lbs. He is so big to me. He stands at 37 inches too. He is at the 90% across the board. We definitely need to get him into football as soon as possible. LOL

Jackson can do:
-he can count to 4
-he can identify any vehicle that he sees
-he loves building with his blocks
-his vocabulary is growing every day.
-he speaks in sentences
-he brushes his own teeth
-he can put on his own shoes
-he can dress himself
-he loves to run
-he would stay outside all day if we let him
-he loves to sing (and surprises us with how many songs he knows)
-he loves to help cook
-he tries to do the dishes
-he loves helping with sister
-he feeds himself (and recently has stopped making messes)

He is so smart and I look forward to where he goes in life. I see him doing big things. He is a wonderful big brother.

Richard started working at the Olive Garden again. We really needed it. I am anxious to pay off bills and finally get caught up but will miss all of the time we got to spend with each other. Mom also got a job so that means no more nanny for us. Richard and I will be working opposite schedules so we won't be seeing much of each other. Only 3 more years of this.

This post has gone on for a long time so I will stop now. Until next time.

Constants!

2011-04-06T06:49:00.003-08:00

I have been reflecting on my life and trying to think positive thoughts. I was finding myself getting annoyed and short with Jackson and realized it was me not him. I am too stressed. I stretch myself too thin these days and I have decided that needs to stop and slow down. There are only 4 constants in my life-Richard, Jackson, Madison and my Heavenly Father. I need to focus on those 4 people and stop worrying about the petty stuff.

-a clean house doesn't matter if Jackson wants to play
-i can do laundry when the kids are sleeping
-making dinner should be a family affair, to build memories and love
-what others think or say about me or my family does not matter
-madison needs to know that mommy loves her
-jackson needs to know that mommy loves him
-richard needs my full support and attention when he requires it ( i admit he gets neglected more than anything)
-i need more me time
-money does not solve problems
-my job is my job, and my family is my family ( they shouldn't mix)

I am truly grateful to be a mother to the most wonderful children. They each have their own little personalities and it is so fun to watch them grow.

Madison just had her 2 month check up (even though she was 3 months old)

Weight 12lbs 1 oz (57%)
Length 24.5 inches (93%)
Head 15 inches (70%)

The doctor said she is doing wonderfully. She is my tall skinny girl. I love it, not sure where she got that from but love it. What she likes to do:
-she belly laughs
-she is constantly smiling
-she is most talkative right when she wakes up
-she loves to lay on the floor and play right along side Jackson
-she found her hands
-she knows mommies voice
-she doesn't like to be held face in, she wants to see the world
-she is scooting on her back
-she can grab her toys on her playmat and loves to put them in her mouth
-she puts herself to sleep
-she sleeps through the night for 10 hours at a time
-she takes only 1 long nap during the day and about 5 cat naps
-she eats about 30 oz of formula a day

We just love our little Maddie Bug.

Do you ever just feel inadequate?

2011-02-24T09:32:00.003-09:00

Lately I have been a little stressed. Richard is going to school and I made the decision to let him have the semester off from working. Well I am not really sure if I will do that again. I am the only one working and it is hard. I have to put in at least 30 hours just to make it work, which means 5 days a week. We are a month behind on every single bill and our taxes are just going to catch us up not put us ahead at all. It is really heart wrenching to know that we don't have a savings, we can barely pay our car payment or insurance and sometimes we have to scrounge around to buy diapers. Mom is trying to find a job to ease the burden which is very sweet of her, but at times I just can't take her money. So in turn, I will still be working but maybe just not as much. I have so much respect for women who work full time and keep their house and family perfect. After work I just can't relax, I need to spend time with my kids even if I am tired, but I am always tired and end up being grouchy. I need to find a balance. But then there are days when I am not working, I need to be super mom. I can't allow anyone else to take care of my children or my house. I need to clean and make 3 meals a day and make sure there is enough play time inside and out and the babies are fed and clean and bills are paid and anything else that needs to be done. Like today I have already started 2 loads of laundry, fed madison, made breakfast and cleaned the kitchen. It is frustrating when I don't get all of it done and I find myself going to bed still thinking about it and feeling like a failure. I also have a really hard time asking Richard to take over some of the duties. (actually i get frustrated having to ask him, in my perfect fantasy world, he just knows what he has to do and does it without me asking, but that isn't reality). I hate feeling small and like I am not doing enough. I know my kids aren't neglected, the bills get paid (late sometimes), dinner is made most of the time, we have a lot of fun together and my children are happy children but I still feel this way and I wish I knew how to get over it. My inadequacy is probably my own doing and thinking but it is still there. Am I alone? Does anyone else feel like this? We will see.

Madison Susan Dalton

2011-02-07T18:49:00.002-09:00

So I don't have any pictures just yet, sadly our camera doesn't have the correct cord to connect to the computer. So my story will have to do for now. December was a very busy month. We celebrated our anniversary on the 8th with dinner at Tucanos (brazilian buffet) and then watched some movies at home. Not a huge celebration but all we could afford. December 18th was Jackson's birthday. This year was a little get together with just his family. We had a sports theme with chicken alfredo to eat and yummy cake and ice cream. Jackson scored some more hot wheels, a play mat to run his cars over, and a nerf basketball hoop. He loved all his toys and just being the center of attention.

We had decided not to celebrate christmas until after Madison was born to ease some stress on all of us. So December 25th was celebrated with Richards birthday. This will probably be the one and only year where he actually gets his birthday celebration on the right day. Poor guy.

December 27th is a very special day. We went to the doctor for my 39 week appointment and Dr. Judd asked if we wanted to go to the hospital that day? Hallelujah! We went home and packed and waited for the nurse to call us in. The nurse called at about 1215 and we arrived at the hospital around 1245. We checked in and got all settled. They got me hooked up to the iv and machines and around 2:00 they started my Pitocin. The contractions were very slow and far apart at first and not very strong. We watched TV, played cards, just hung out. Around 4 the anestisiologist called my nurse to ask if I wanted my epidural because he was going to be in a C-section until about 630. I opted to go for it so I could just relax. I got the epidural around 5 and immediately after, they broke my water. Luckily I didn't feel any of it, so for the next hour I was just relaxed and enjoying my time. Around 630 I got a new nurse and she came in to check me. I was only at a 3. No big deal, I had time and the epidural was working its course. I took a little nap, played some cards with richard, read a little in my magazine, but mostly just napped. At 8 my mom looked at my monitor and said she couldn't see my contractions. The machine wasn't picking them up. We started getting nervous but luckily the nurse came in almost immediately. She decided to check me and see what was going on, well lo and behold it was time to push. She ran out and got Dr. Judd and all the nurses, pediatrician and anyone else who needed to be there. They took my bed apart, put up the stir ups, got the bags ready for dirty laundry, set me up and Dr. Judd said push, but then preceded to make a joke (don't ask what it was) and I laughed instead of push and she came right out. If the nurse hadn't have come when she did, Madison would have birthed herself. She was that far along and the top of her head was already out. Madison was born at exactly 9 pm on December 27th 2010. She weighed 8 lbs 3 oz and was 21 inches long. Her head was 13 inches. She looks just like her brother which means she looks like her daddy. She had a full head of brownish blonde hair. She was perfect. We are so happy to have this little lady in our lives. She has definitely brought a new spirit to our home and we are so blessed to be given the opportunity to be her parents.

Just some happenings

2010-10-16T16:08:00.003-08:00

The Dalton household is busy. Not always a productive busy but we try. Daddy came home on September 22nd. It sure is a blessing to have him back. He came back just in time to help mommy during the last trimester of her pregnancy. It only took Jackson about an hour to warm up to him and they have a good relationship that is growing more and more everyday.

We left and went on vacation for about 10 days. It was awesome to not have to worry about work for a week and just be lazy. Something I haven't done in a long time. Jackson had fun with his second cousin William. It was fun for him to have someone other than mommy, daddy or grandma to play with. I will post pictures and more story later.

We started back at work on monday. Richard came back to the Olive Garden. It only made sense to come back to a flexible job for when he starts school in January. Most of our days consist of working, playing with jackson and trying to get things sorted out for school, insurance and the new baby to get here.

Speaking of new baby, we have decided to name her Madison Susan. We loved the name Madison and Susan is Richards late moms name. We feel really good about this, and can't wait for her to join us. I have hit the 7 month mark and am starting to feel uncomfortable and tired more but am still okay to work. I plan on working as long as I can. The doctor said she will probably be a big baby, so we are definitely going to induce early. I can't handle another 9 pound baby. LOL

Overall we are doing pretty well, and are mostly happy. We just have a lot of waiting going on.

Jackson loves laying on the floor with daddy

This was our little trooper while travelling.

Wow time flies

2010-07-26T16:07:00.006-08:00

Finally I can sit down and post. I have a lot to catch up on so bear with me. On April 30th we dropped Richard off at the airport to head out to Alaska to work for the summer again. This year was a lot harder than last. I hate that you can't go to the gate with them. He is doing great out there. They changed the way they work things up there and I feel like it has benefited us more than last. I am pleased with the changes. Richard is a wonderful father and husband, we are blessed to have him care so much. We really look forward to when he comes home.

Thats my little ham. He is such a silly boy.

As for Jackson, he is growing up so quick. We unfortunately had to cancel his 15 month appointment due to no insurance but we measure him at home and he hasn't really gained any weight since his 12 month appt. Thank goodness. He is growing taller though. He is such a happy little man. He loves his family especially his grandma. They are together all the time and it warms my heart for him to know her like that. He is a very lucky little boy. This is Jackson as of today:

-he can walk/run (finally happened in May)

-he can point to his nose, ears, eyes, tummy, toes, feet, hands, hair, tongue and mouth.

-he can say ball, car, baby, momma, dadda, gamma, kirk, jus, bruce, brush, cracker, bye bye, garbage, drink, ice, nice, bathroom, book, bottle, bite and Jesus.

-he loves to play outside and gets mad at us when we come in

-he has bumps in the places that will be his 2 year old molars

-he loves books, we could read to him all day

-he is currently in love with rolling his hands and turning around in circles

-he loves to dance

-he sleeps about 9 hours a night with one 2-3 hour nap during the day

-he laughs a lot

-he likes to help clean

-he tries to brush his teeth

-he loves his bath time

-he drew on the wall for the first time on June 18th.

-he loves taking the garbage out

-he mimics everything we do

-he still doesn't watch tv which is fine with me.

I could go on and on, he is such a little spitfire. He is always moving and learning new things. He is definitely a wonder first child and we are so blessed to be given this opportunity to be his parents. We love him very much.

He wasn't mad in this picture, he is really into facial expressions lately. Just another side of silly.

And then May 8th happened. I had been craving chocolate (i don't like chocolate) for about 5 days so I decided to take a pregnancy test. Sure enough it came back positive. I was scared and nervous. I had so many emotions going on at the same time. I called Richard to tell him and he made it all better. He was so excited that it wore off on me and I knew it would all be okay. This is our first ultrasound at 10 weeks.

Just last wednesday I went to a new doctor and he wanted to do another ultrasound to make sure and they moved my due date up by a week and were able to tell what we were having. A GIRL!!!! I am super excited. I've always wanted a boy first then a girl. Perfect little family. I have a screening ultrasound in 3 weeks which will reassure if we really are having a girl. It was pretty obvious though, so I have no doubt.

This is all new to me, I feel like I am pregnant for the first time again. I am working full time and caring for another child, my life is so different. Plus with her being a girl, I have to go shopping. :)

Overall we are doing great. Jackson and I hang out with grandma and the uncles a lot (they live with us). We planted a garden this summer, and are just having a good time. We can't wait for daddy to get home so he can be included in our everyday as well.

Jackson's first hair cut

2010-03-14T19:40:00.003-08:00

Okay so I am retarded and posted the pictures in the wrong order. Just start from the bottom up. A friend of ours is a stylist and we decided it was boys day at the salon. Jackson went first sitting in daddys lap. He was such a good boy. Was calm and just watching all the pretty girls in the salon. Until mommy decided to hold his face still with both hands and he just started crying. Luckily it was the very end. He was such a trooper. His cut turned out so adorable but it made him age. He really looks like a toddler now. All of his curls are gone. But he is still handsome.

Long time!!

2010-03-04T15:15:00.005-09:00

Yes I know, its been almost two months since my last post. Our lives are kind of uneventful so I don't ever think to blog..

I have tried to take control of my life and my family. We were kind of floating from day to day there for a while. We are getting better at setting a routine and having more family time. Richard is getting more and more involved with Jackson. (men just don't have the intuition like us women do) They have so much fun together and Jackson is looking more and more like him every day.

Our days consist of waking up between 8 or 9. Eating breakfast (one thing we are trying to do as a family), play with toys, laundry, chores of some sort, errands, one or both of us going to work at all hours of the day, taking naps with jackson, tv, computer time, chasing after jackson in whatever he is up to, dinner (if we are home), bath time, relaxation and bed around 10 or 11. We have tried to reconnect with some friends to have some sort of a social life but it is hard when they don't have children. So we are content with our own little family and our own little world. Jackson however needs some interaction, he is kind of shy around other kids, 3 more months and he will be able to go to nursery, maybe that will help.

Work has its ups and downs. Anyone that has worked at The Olive Garden, can relate. I am trying to get into management, there is a leadership program I have to complete and that isn't even a quarantee. So until then, I just keep busting my butt and doing whatever I have to, to make sure I do get a spot. Richard only has 2 months left and he will be leaving in April for Alaska. I am sad but I know it is the right thing for us. This will be his last and final year. He is waivering between going back to the military or not. Pray for him that his mind will be at ease and he can make a decision.

As for Jackson, he is just a happy toddler. He brings happiness to our family like we have never known before. He is going in for his 15th month check up on the 22nd, I hope its all good.

ALASKA 2010

2010-01-16T08:23:00.001-09:00

So we have decided to send Richard to Alaska for one more summer. Things have not moved as quickly as we planned and we need this money that he will make. I know what you all are thinking, I must be crazy but the Olive Garden isn't cutting it, we need something better. So for one more summer Richard is gonna go up to AK and work on the train. It will help us get ahead and hopefully by the time he gets back there will be some advancement for me at the OG and we won't have to worry about money so much. I am hoping for a managment position at the OG by next christmas. If it is the right thing for us, then the Lord will make it happen. As for now, I will be husbandless and lonely just like last year. You do what you got to do.

12 month stats!

2010-01-16T08:16:00.003-09:00

Yeah its a little late but we did go to the doctor on Dec 22. Jackson weighed in at 25.7 lbs (88th percentile) and is 31 inches long (59th percentile). He's a little short for his weight but they weren't worried. He has dry skin but not dry enough to call it ezcema. It comes and goes with this Utah weather. He is right up to speed in all the milestones. He just isn't walking yet but he will be soon. He has his 8 front teeth with 3 molars coming in. He is very independent (like his mommy)

Some things Jackson can do:

He jabbers to anyone that will listen.
He can wave bye-bye
He can unzip just about anything
He can put his blocks away.
He feeds himself (been doing that for about 5 months now)
He can drink through a straw
He doesn't use his bottle anymore
He can say momma and dadda and YUM
He knows how to turn the channel on the cable box. LOL
He loves to dance
He climbs up and down the stairs all day long
Oh and he loves the toilet.

He really is a joy to our family and it is so fun just watching him learn and grow everyday.

So its been a long time..

2009-12-10T06:30:00.003-09:00

For starters we are back in Utah. We moved here in July. Richard didn't get here until almost October. We both work at the Olive Garden. I am working my way to become a manager and Richard is a server. He will be starting school next fall after we become residents and get everything financially set. Jackson is such a fun little boy. He will be 1 year old in just 8 days. He keeps us very busy. He hasn't started walking yet but he can move like there is no tomorrow. He is jabbering and trying real hard to say some words. We started a week ago, putting him in his crib to put himself to sleep, it only took a week and he is a pro at it now. It is very comforting that he can do that by himself. Now Richard and I can get back to our relationship. Jackson loves going outside, sadly I just don't do it enough with him. He is such a joy to have in our home. Makes it all worth while, as I am sure all you parents agree.

We are doing well. Not alot goes on in the Dalton household. Just working and playing with Jackson. Some may say we are pretty boring but we enjoy it.

Family Pictures 2009

2009-12-10T06:24:00.004-09:00

Our friend Paul took these for us and I absolutely love them. This was our first professional family shoot. I hope to make it a annual thing. It was fun for us, even though it was cold and windy, we still had a blast.

Just some pictures!!

2009-08-27T14:08:00.004-08:00

Mom and Jackson at Scera park....

Jacksons first time on a slide, he thought it was hiliarious...as did I.

Jackson's first time in a pool. He loves the water.

Wow it has been forever

2009-08-18T16:07:00.002-08:00

Sorry no pictures to post yet, not my computer. So for those of you who don't know, we have made our way back to good ole' Utah again. July 23 we packed up our trailer and car and hit the road for a 7 day road trip. With RIchard being in Alaska, mom and I did it ourselves. It was quite an excursion. We stopped in Texas to see my grandparents whom I have not seen since 1998. It was such a wonderful time to just sit around and visit with them. Who knows if I will ever get to see them again. WE did take 4 generation pictures so I will have to post them later. My grandpa loved Jackson. He kept calling him "the general" because his first name is jackson and middle name lee, both generals. He couldn't get enough of him and Jackson was just as fond of him.

We made it to Utah on June 30th and got to move into our home. It is a huge house. My mom and 3 brothers are living with us for the time being. BUt there is plenty of room. We have 4 bedrooms, 2 living rooms, 2 bathrooms, a huge room over the garage and a fireplace. :) I am just grateful to be in a home.

Richard is still in Alaska and will be home the end of september. I am working at the Olive Garden and still liking it. I am very grateful for a job that pays pretty well.

As for the love of my life, Jackson is 8 months old today. He has two teeth and is getting more real soon. He hasn't started crawling but scoots and creeps and rolls everywhere. He is very chatty, he makes all sorts of noises and when he is really tired it even sounds like he says "mama". He is getting so big. It makes me sad to think in 4 months he will be a year old. He is a very curious little man, he watches everything we do, and sometimes tries to mimic. He loves music and has learned how to shake his head no so he does it to the music. He is such a good boy in church. He never cries and if he does see another baby crying he just stares at them. He is all smiles and such an easy going baby. I am very lucky.

We are so thrilled to be in Utah, and I just can't wait for my husband to get home so he can fall in love with Utah just like me.

I know its been too long...

2009-05-29T12:47:00.004-08:00

I am lagging on this blogging thing. I do apologize. We have been busy. For starters Richard left April 28 for Alaska to work for Princess Tours as the steward on the tour train. He loves it so far. I am still working as a waitress at a local restaurant. Its not my favorite place but it pays the bills. Mom is still keeping the house in order and watching our little guy.

Jackson had his 4 month check up in April and he weighed in at 19.2 lbs and was 25.5 inches long. He is going to be a big boy no matter what. The doctor said he was doing what he was supposed to and doing great. He cried for just a minute or two when he got his shots. I think he actually realized what happened this time around not like last time. But overall he was a very calm little man.

Here are some things that Jackson has learned to do or is doing.

-He loves to stand while we are holding on to him

-He can roll any which way.

-He has started blowing raspberries.

-He can hold his own bottle

-He love his bath and has learned how to kick and splash with his legs

-He sleeps about 8 hours a night sometimes 9 or 10

-He loves to put anything and everything in his mouth

-He has just started on cereal and loves it.

-He smiles all the time unless hungry or sleepy

-He stays awake for about 3 hours at a time now

-He can play with toys passing them from one hand to another

-He found his feet.

-He responds to his name when you say it.

He is a very happy baby that surprises us everyday with a new thing he has learned. I am very blessed to have such a wonderful little man.

We are officially below the month mark in moving to Utah. We finally got the house we wanted. Once I get some pictures I will post it. Its in south provo and is perfect for us. I am so ready to move in and get started and settled. Thats about it for now.

Jackson

2009-04-22T07:38:00.003-08:00

Jackson is just growing up so much everyday. He is 4 months old as of saturday and is a little ball of energy. He can hold his head up now and actually enjoys tummy time. When we give him tummy time he is tucking his legs under and raising his butt as if he will start to crawl, but he hasn't mastered the pushing with his hands yet. He does reach and try to grab if something is in front of him. He is fascinated by his hands and loves to chew on them. He can hold his toys and rattles and enjoys putting them in his mouth as well. He is a very happy baby. He smiles and giggles and is chatty just about all the time. The most beautiful sound is when he wakes up in the morning, he doesn't fuss or cry but instead lays in his bed and just coos and talks. I can't help but just look at him at these times. He is trying really hard to roll from his back to his tummy. He loves to scoot on his back. If we turn our back on him he'll turn himself around so he can see us. He is sleeping at least 8 hours through the night. There is just so much he is doing now. He has his 4 month check up on Thursday, so I will definitely post again.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles...

2009-04-22T07:29:00.003-08:00

Sorry no pictures this time but our laptop is no longer alive so we have no way of putting pictures up until we buy a new computer. So for now just words...

It has been a while since I blogged, so I will catch you up. At the beginning of the month we decided South Carolina isn't the right place for us, so we started to weigh our options. Because of all the people I know and the fact that I basically already have employment and my family lives there we have decided to move back to UTAH in June. Richard is excited for a new place and to finally meet everyone. I am happy to get back on our feet and maybe get ahead as well. WE will be renting a trailer and driving at the end of May and into June.

As in other news, Richard will be leaving us for Alaska for the summer. HE was unable to find work out here so he applied to work for Princess and was hired to start May 1st. He will be an onboard steward (basically maintenance) on the tour train that has about 300 passangers and rides from Anchorage to Fairbanks Alaska. He is really excited and so thankful for a job. We are sad to be apart for 5 months but we are doing what we have to do. This day in age with the economy and not having a degree it is really hard to find proper employment that will support your family. Richard will be joining us in Utah at the end of September.

First Spring Day!

2009-03-09T08:34:00.003-08:00

Saturday was a beautiful day. The temperature was up to 85 degrees. The sun was shining and the animals were out. We had this little lizard just walking around our porch and Richard was able to catch this amazing photo of him in the shrubs. It was just a wonderful day of relaxation and warmth.

Jackson got to enjoy the outdoors as well. Thank Aunt Holly for giving us this little chair for him, so he can enjoy sitting outside just like we do. Our friend Aly gave him that precious little hat which was perfect for shading his face. He loved it out there. He is just talking and squealing so much now. He only takes cat naps throughout the day now. He is awake alot and jabbering away the whole time. He has started sleeping longer through the night, just last night he slept 10 hours. Mommy and daddy were grateful. :)

Here's my little angel!!!!!!!

2009-03-03T09:34:00.003-09:00

So much to write about....

2009-03-03T09:22:00.003-09:00

Well for starters, I have a job. The economy has taken a toll on South Carolina as well. I didn't really want to work but we decided which ever one of us got a job first would take it. I am working at a restaurant just down the street from our home so it isn't too bad.
On February 12 Jackson had his 2 month check up....and let me tell you he is such a good little baby. He weighed in at 14 lbs 4 oz and was 23.5 inches long. 95th percentile across the board. The doctor said he was perfect. He is eating just the right amount. He also got his 2 month shots. I was expecting a screaming baby but he didn't make a peep. He made a little noise with the first needle then basically just laid there until she was done. He is such a trooper. He is getting so big and he is so smart. Around the beginning of Feb. he started cooing and squealing and smiling. We can't get him to be quiet anymore. He loves his play mat and can even pull on the toys. He loves sucking on his hands and is very alert to whoever is around him. He is such a good baby. We couldn't be more blessed.

On the weekend of February 20-22, we went up to Easley, SC and visited with Richards family. And when I say family, I mean the whole group. We got married so fast and so far away that none of our family members were able to come. (alaska is too expensive to fly to) so this was the first time meeting any of his family. WE stayed with his sister and her family. I met his grandma, his aunts, uncles, dad, cousins, neighbors, friends. You name someone, I probably met them. Everyone was so kind and loving. They just made us feel so welcome. My mom even went with us and they welcomed her like family as well. Jackson was the center of attention. He was such a good little man. He would let anyone and everyone hold him. It was so nice to finally put faces with the family that Richard speaks so fondly of. I am so grateful that they are all so loving. They really made us feel loved. I can't wait to see them again.

As for day to day, we are doing well. South Carolina is growing on me more and more each day. I love going to church every sunday and feeling the spirit. Our ward is simply amazing. I love my family and the togetherness we feel all the time. I am so grateful to have a wonderful husband and a perfect baby. :)

Quick note

2009-02-21T13:41:00.002-09:00

Hello, I know it has been forever. I just wanted to check in and say I will be posting next week sometime. Currently we are in Easley South Carolina visiting/meeting Richards family. This is new for me because I never got to meet any of his family before we got married so this is really fun. I will definitely post about it when we get back home. Hope everyones weekend is wonderful.

Okay so this just happened as I was posting....

2009-01-28T14:48:00.005-09:00

Jackson was taking a nap while I was doing some things on the computer, blogging included. He started out in the the first pictures position and within 5 minutes he rolled over to his side and settled into the second pictures position. I just thought it was too adorable. I had to share.

6 weeks old!!

2009-01-28T14:35:00.005-09:00

I can't believe Jackson will be 6 weeks old tomorrow. He is just growing up to be a handsome little man, although he is actually still a baby. :) He is such a good baby. He has just started sleeping through the night for about 6 hours. He doesn't really fuss unless he is hungry and he especially doesn't like to have a poopy diaper on longer than 5 minutes. He lets us know as soon as he is done that it is time to change it.He is still rolling over and is starting to like his play mat. He is very aware and interested of everything around him. He will move his body and his head so he can see who is holding him, and then he'll just stare at you. He has just started smiling and cooing. Those moments when he is totally content and so happy just melt my heart and make it all worth while. He is just so darn cute. I couldn't be more blessed.

Dalton Look-alike Meter

2009-01-23T20:58:00.002-09:00

So we did the look alike meter and I think it is mistaken. Jackson totally looks like Richard. Maybe I didn't use the right photos. Oh well!! It was fun anyway.

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities - Collage - Morph

Some pictures.

2009-01-18T20:50:00.003-09:00

This is about all I can upload right now. Jackson is getting so big already. He is so alert and awake almost all day and is sleeping about 4-5 hours a night. He is such a good baby. Doesn't fuss except when he is hungry and we are taking too long to make his bottle. :) He got to meet some of his relatives on his daddy's side last wednesday. He has a cousin that is 3 months older than him. They were really cute together. She couldn't stop eating his hand and he didn't mind one bit. I was thrilled to finally meet Richards family as well. It was a wonderful visit and I can't wait to see them again. As soon as we get the internet I will post more pictures.

A little update.....

2009-01-05T10:52:00.003-09:00

Sorry no pictures to post, we don't have the internet yet so I am doing my typing at the local library while Grandma takes care of little Jackson...

So Dec. 30th we set out on a 6 hour flight to Chicago with approximately 30 minutes to then get to our next flight which then took us to Columbia, South Carolina. Jackson was an angel the whole time. He slept except to feed. He didn't fuss once. It could be because he is so little or I was just blessed. Either way I am grateful. We got into Columbia at 930 at night with no idea where we were staying. Ooops, I forgot to book a hotel! Luckily we found one right down the street from our new apartment. On Dec. 31, we signed the lease and moved in. And by moved in I mean't carried our luggage in. (our household goods won't be in town until Feb. 2) We are currently sleeping on the floor and eating pb&j sandwiches. Bless the army for shipping everything for us, but I just wish it was faster. Everyday since moving in has been filled with lots and lots of sleep, occasional eating, a few walks, a couple bus rides downtown, 2 trips to the library, filling our applications and tons and tons of phone calls. Moving to South Carolina was the right thing to do but it is also a big struggle. I pray and pray every day that Richard will find a sufficient job. Luckily my brothers are just wonderful and have lent us some money to hold us over for a little while but it is scary to not know where the next installment will come from. Richard is doing a great job looking for employment and I know with faith and positive thinking his shining moment will come.
On another note, we went to church yesterday and I have already come to the conclusion that our ward is going to be wonderful. Our bishop is a military man ( i am a sucker for the military), our sunday school teacher was a riot, full of knowledge and our relief society is huge. All the ladies were so welcoming and full of helpful ideas. I am excited to see what's in store for the future and our time with this ward.
I am truly blessed to have a roof over my head and a healthy baby. I have enough to eat and a wonderful husband who is diligent in wanting to take care of his family. I have the most amazing mother anyone could ask for. She has been such a help and comfort these past few weeks. I am so thankful for all that I do have. I have wonderful friends that are so unconditional and are willing to jump whenever we need them. I am thankful for everyones kind words and comments. It is nice to know we are not alone.

CUTE!!

2008-12-29T16:32:00.002-09:00

And just because I love him and I can't get enough of his little baby feet!!

Battle with myself...

2008-12-29T16:17:00.004-09:00

So this has been a most rewarding week but also a most challenging week. For those mothers out there you will understand. For those of you who know me you know that I am stubborn and beat myself up for almost everything even if I have no control over it. Well this is again one of those times. I was so determined to breastfeed Jackson that I would stop at nothing. So I did what the nurses said and basically let him sit on my breast most of the day. Well, when we went for his 2 day check up and he had lost nearly a pound I was frustrated. So let him eat and eat and eat thinking I was doing some good. The next day we went back for a weight check and he gained back an ounce I was feeling somewhat optimistic. So we kept doing what we were doing. Jackson is not a fussy baby and he sure as heck doesn't cry for long periods of time so when he kept crying and I kept crying from the excruciating pain coming whenever he latched on we realized something was wrong. So we gave him a formula bottle. Lo and behold he was full, and content and happy and stopped crying. So we decided to have me pump for a while to relieve some pain and also give him the food he needs while supplementing formula. That did not go as planned, after pumping for 2 days and only producing a total of 6 ounces of milk, not having the engorgement like I should and not feeling tender or sore like they should, we realized that breastfeeding just wasn't cut out for us. It killed me to think that I couldn't give to my baby what is best for him. I know it's not his fault or my fault or anyones fault for that matter but it is a battle that I have fought with myself for the last 2 days and it sucks. I wonder if anyone has gone through what we went through? The positive side though is we caught it early enough, he is finally getting what he needs, he is happy, and he gets to have bonding time with daddy (cuz daddy can feed him now). I know we are under a lot of stress right now and that may have caused it to happen but I believe we are doing our best and I know Jackson will be okay as long as we keep doing our best.

Our first Christmas!!

2008-12-26T20:44:00.004-09:00

Christmas this year was a little different. On monday the moving company came and packed up our house to ship to South Carolina. With nothing but an air mattress to sleep on and the clothes we will be needing to travel our house is completely empty. Christmas was going to be non-existent this year but then a couple of our friends invited us over for dinner and games. Our wonderful friends Lesley and James Bender allowed us to hang out and enjoy the comfort of turkey dinner and games and tv. Sad I know but we have been without a tv or any of our possessions for 4 days and it seems we run out of things to do. It was nice to relax and sit on a couch. :) Jackson was a perfect angel. He is growing into his own personality. We dressed him in some jeans (which he still needs to grow in to) but he was so cute. He slept most of the day but what can we expect from a week old baby.

Today is also Richard's birthday. Any of you keeping track, December is the most busiest month of our lives. Sadly we weren't really able to get away or celebrate his birthday this year so hopefully next year or even in the next months or so we can have a night of our own. I am so grateful for Richard. He is a wonderful man and a great father. He tries to be so involved in Jackson's every moment. Even the times when it is time to feed him, daddy is right there with us lending his support. He is gentle and loving. He is kind and compassionate. He is very calm and collected. He is definitely the mellow one in this relationship. He doesn't let me talk badly about myself and always tells me how much he loves me. He has a way of calming me down during the times when I am at my whits end or ready to cry. He is very involved in his family and does his best to keep in touch. I am so honored to be his wife. He has taught me so much and I look forward to a lifetime of birthdays with him. I love you Richard!!

The two most important men in my life!!

2008-12-26T20:38:00.003-09:00

I have never been so in love. I am so in love with my husband. He is a good man. He takes care of us and is so cute when taking care of Jackson. I love our little guy so much, I never thought it would be this bad but I can't take my eyes off him. I can't even let him sleep alone. :) I am so very lucky to have these to guys in my life. It just makes me whole.

Jackson Lee Dalton

2008-12-20T17:30:00.009-09:00

Yay he has arrived. I will just take ya back to when it started. Wednesday morning I woke up with this feeling that I couldn't quite put my finger on. Eventually it dawned on me that I was in early labor. I woke up my mom to make sure I wasn't crazy. I called Labor and Delivery and they told me to go through my day doing what I normally do and see where it goes. It turned out I had my 40 week doctors appointment today as well so I went to that and was told I was just about 3 cm 80% effaced at 0 station. I was very optimistic about that. So for the next 5 hours we walked, rested, cleaned house and waited. Whoever said it is easy to sleep when in labor is crazy. I couldn't sleep and around 4:30 pm I went to Labor and Delivery to get checked. They checked me alright and I was still the same so they told me to go walk around and come back at 7. So we did. At 7 we got checked and still nothing so they sent us home. This is when it got really bad. See my plan was the natural way so sending us home was the way to do it. I attempted to rest but the contractions got so bad all I could do was whine and cry and get through each contraction as it came. I lasted until about 4:30 in the morning of thursday and called the hospital and they said come in. We prayed and crossed our fingers that my laboring hadn't been a waste. When they checked me I was at 6cm and 90% effaced. YAY!!!! I was able to stay at the hospital and continue my laboring there. I did it natural and got in the birthing tub and around 8pm I couldn't take it anymore. I was exhausted. I threw up a few times and was basically hysterical because exhaustion had taken over so I got an epidural. The epidural was in and in effect by 9pm and I passed out for the next little while. It was nice to get some sleep. At around 11 am the nurse came in and checked and it was time to push. Let me tell you pushing on an epidural is very strange. Your legs are dead weight and you have no idea what is going on down there. After 48 minutes of pushing Jackson made his debut at 1:03 pm. I was so overwhelmed with joy and happiness I just cried. And so did Jackson. He came out screaming and letting the whole world know he was alive and well. Richard cut the cord and they put him on my belly. He was the most beautiful baby and just keeps getting more and more beautiful.
The next few days were spent at the hospital. Because of his size they had to check his sugar level 6 times the first day. He weighed 9 lbs 7 oz and was 21 1/2 inches long. We were both checked out many many times throughout the two days we were there and never any problems. Jackson is just an amazing baby. He never really cries and is already starting to hold his head up. We are so blessed to have this precious miracle in our family. I am honored that Heavenly Father has given me this opportunity to be a mother and have such an amazing husband who is so anxious and willing to be a good father.
My mom was there with us the whole time and she is such an amazing women. She helped us out so much and is still taking care of us. Without her we would be lost.
I look forward to this new adventure in our lives.

Dr. Appointment

2008-12-01T18:43:00.003-09:00

So we went to the doctor today hoping to hear some good news or get things moving, but neither of those things happened. See the hospital has my due date a week later than we do so it ended up being a normal check up. She did check to see if I was dialated and that was negative. She then said that she doesn't strip the membranes until 39 weeks so yes I have one more week to wait. So Richard and I have decided to do everything we could think of. We went to the mall and walked around. Plan on doing that everyday. We don't want to get frustrated but it is sometimes hard not to. WE just keep praying that the Lord will send him with enough time to fly to South Carolina. So cross your fingers that Jackson will make his debut no later than Dec 15. :) More updates later.

We are Blessed!!

2008-11-13T11:06:00.002-09:00

Thank you all so much for you comments and prayers. They have all worked, and definitely strengthened my faith and testimony. For the last two days Richard and I have been processing and clearing. He went to work on Wednesday and they gave him the NEWS. He is getting out but it's a good thing. His last official day of having to show up for work is next friday, but he was approved for Terminal Leave (for those not familiar with the military, that means all the leave days that he accrued throughout his military career, he gets to take at the end of his career and still get paid) for thirty days after that, so we will still get paid until Dec 21 and we will be able to stay here in Alaska and have the baby. Because he is getting out honorably we will still have health insurance for 180 days after that (thank goodness) and they are going to pay for us to fly home and ship all of our household goods as well as our car. I could not ask for more than that. WE got everything we asked for. I am so grateful and humbled. It will be so nice to have Richard home for the next month to be around for Jackson. I am very lucky in that aspect, I know that a lot of men don't get paternity leave when their babies are born so I am truly grateful for that. So for now we will still live in Alaska but come Dec 21 (right in time for christmas) we will be in South carolina. YAY!!!! Much love to all of you. And good luck Trina, your family is in our prayers. I can't wait for the day when you get your husband back for good.

A little update!!

2008-11-08T20:27:00.002-09:00

So an update to my last blog. Richard went to work on thursday and he was told he needed to go take care of some paperwork. Well little did he know that the paperwork was part of his getting out of the army. The next thing he was told really made me freak out and cry for about 3 hours. Pretty much all of his paperwork is done and we are just waiting for his Sergeant Major to determine when he will sign the orders to let him get out completely. The catch is, as soon as he gets the orders we will have 7 days to finalize everything and get out. If you take a look at the numbers, we could be out of here in two weeks or sooner. I am completely 100% sure the Lord will take care of us and it will all work out but I am still scared. I am due in 30 days and I have to find a place to live in South Carolina, get everything settled, hopefully get the okay to fly out of here, get everything packed and make sure we still have health insurance. I talk to my mom everyday and she has assured me that the Lord only gives us what we can handle, so I am hoping the Lord knows if I can handle this or not. :) I really just hope and pray that all will fall into place quickly so we can be where we need to be and ready when Jackson decides to make his appearance. Thank you so much Kristin and Tenille for your comments and prayers. And to my wonderful mother who has been with me the whole way. I am truly grateful for your concerns and care. I will definitely keep you updated.

Trials and Tribulations!!

2008-10-30T19:09:00.003-08:00

Every now and then we are given trials that at first we don't understand. Today is that such day. I won't go into the whole story because it goes back about 6 months but I will sum it up for you. Richard is in the military and according to them he isn't up to par where some of his officers think he should be. Because of these standards they have been toying with him and feeding him different stories about his future with the army. First he is finishing his contract, then they are threatening to kick him out, then they tell him he is deploying and now the latest is he isn't deploying but they don't have a specific date of when he is gonna get out. All the mean while this puts a damper on our plans. We can't plan any further than a week in advance. This is really hard to come by when you are supposed to have a baby in 6 weeks. I am overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. I am finding myself fall into a depression and just want to sleep. I don't have a happy ending and a lesson learned from this experience just yet but I hope someday I will. As for now I just ask for all of your prayers to help me keep my strength and remain calm. I so badly want to go up to his superiors and give them a piece of my mind but as you know civilians don't confront military officers like that. It is very hard for me. Richard needs your prayers as well to keep up his good attitude and strength to do his best no matter what. I need to be strong for him and for our little family. Thank you all so much for listening to my problem. God bless you all.

Husband Tag!!

2008-10-26T18:30:00.004-08:00

-Where did you meet your husband? Sadly enough we met a local anchorage bar.

-How long have you been married? 10 months and 18 days

-What does he do that surprises you? he is very tender and when i least expect it play with my hair or rub my back.

-What is your favorite feature of his? his eyes (they light up when he smiles, laughs)

-Does he have any annoying habit? he likes to stick his finger up my nose

-What is your favorite quality of his? his calm demeanor, he is always rational and soft spoken

-Does he have a nickname for you? he calls me babe or baby a lot

-What is his favorite color? blue, red and yellow (he a primary colors kind of guy)

-What is his favorite food? he loves breakfast but can't get enough of my mashed potatoes either

-What is his favorite sport? football (dallas cowboys)

-When and where was your first kiss? the day we met (remember we met a bar, not always a good environment)

-What is your favorite thing to do as a couple? we love shopping, and watching movies

-Do you have any kids? not yet but in 6 weeks we will

-Does he have a hidden talent? he has an incredible memory

-How old is he? 22 (yep he is a lot younger than me)

-Who said I love you first? Him

-What is his favorite type of music? he likes rock, (the kind that you can't understand what they are saying) but he listens to country most of the time

-What do you admire most about him? how responsible he is in wanting to take care of his family and be the best provider he can be

-Will he read this? probably, he checks the blog sometimes

33 week belly shot!!

2008-10-21T10:17:00.003-08:00

Of course I had to do the self portrait in the mirror but if I knew how to use Richard's camera and turn off the flash it wouldn't be so bad so Richard to the rescue and he took a normal one later.

I can't believe I am 33 weeks already. Jackson is continually active and loves it when his daddy plays with him. Richard likes to push on my belly and then Jackson will kick back. I know they are gonna have a great relationship. I can't wait for our little bear to finally arrive.

Dalton Family Update

2008-09-28T15:10:00.003-08:00

First and foremost here is my first pregnancy picture. This is just for you Mom, I am huge!! We had just come home from a wedding and I looked in the mirror and thought, I should take a picture. I am officially 29 weeks in this picture. I can only imagine what I am going to look like at 39 weeks. AHHHH!!! Sorry my head got cut off, this was the best shot of the bunch.

Next I have apparently started the nesting phase. That is what everyone says anyway. My job just ended last tuesday so now I can focus on getting the house ready. This also includes making our house a home finally. I took this do-it-yourself craft idea from Emily Norton's The Little Window Shoppe website and decided to put it to a test in my own house. It is a start. It was very easy and very cost effective. It is only the beginning of the decorating I want to see happen in my living room. But at least now I have a focal point. Thank you Emily.

This is another project I did. I love flowers and have always believed they really add beauty and a warm feeling in your home. Since fall is upon us these are some of my favorite colors, I decided to arrange some flowers. I bought these all at Michaels for very cheap and arranged them myself. They sit on my dining room table.

As for other events in our life. Richard is still working hard in the Army. They are preparing for deployment in the next coming months so they are busy all day every day. I love witnessing his dedication and responsibility to the military. He tries real hard at everything he does. He is a great husband and is so excited to be a daddy. He is going to be a wonderful father. I on the other hand am just being a wife and homemaker. I love both of those responsibilities and am so ready to add mother to the list. We basically fill our days with work, preparing for Jackson, playing some occasional rock band 2, going to the movies, entertaining friends and sports. :) Maybe that seems boring to others but it's our life and we love it. :)

BABY SHOWER!!!

2008-09-13T20:36:00.005-08:00

Yay for surprises!! On wednesday some friends of mine threw me a surprise baby shower. I was under the impression I was meeting two friends for dinner that I haven't seen in a few weeks, so when I showed up at the restaurant and saw 8 friends I got really excited and of course started crying. Fallon, Jenn, Jen, Kara, Anika, Alex, Tammie Jo and Katie made my night. They had the table decorated and even had a tiara for me to wear (of course it was blue though). Richard had known all along and kept it a secret for weeks. I was so proud of him. We had great food, and desserts and they had a table full of gifts for us. I was certainly surprised and extremely grateful. God bless my wonderful friends.

This is a diaper cake made by my friend Aly. Very cute and creative. It was loaded with diapers, socks, onsies, bibs and hats.

This car seat wasn't actually part of the shower, we just bought this today. I wanted to be prepared.

Just some of the clothes we received. I am so excited to dress Jackson up in these outfits.

This is everything we received. From pacifiers to a diaper genie to monitors and a bunch of clothes. They sure helped us out a lot.

My little cowboy!!

2008-08-30T11:03:00.003-08:00

Richard came home on Tuesday as a surprise to me. But what a pleasant surprise. One of the things that had been on my list of things to do for him was find some Dallas Cowboys attire for Jackson. So what better time to do it then when he was away, and surprise him when he got back. So that's what I did. He absolutely loved it. I am sure he already has plans for him and his son, which will most likely involve sports. I am so grateful that Richard is so involved with us and such a part of this pregnancy just as much as I am. Jackson is definitely going to be loved.

Alaska beauty!!

2008-08-17T18:02:00.003-08:00

Alaska wildlife......not so wild though, you see them most in back yards and on downtown streets.

I just love the country I live in right now. Alaska has some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever layed eyes on.

Our visit to a glacier. It was just a beautiful day, and it was 4 days before my birthday so it was special.

This picture means a lot. Those are trees left over from the 1964 earthquake that hit here. It completely wiped out the area surrounding these trees. These trees are petrified so they will never grow.

This is a view from the train ride through alaskas wilderness. This is Hurricane Gulch. There is a tressle that goes across this water that stands 296 feet in the air. It is one of the most loved attractions by tourists.

Random Pictures!!

2008-08-17T17:50:00.007-08:00

I have had some friends tell me that I need to post some more pictures. I realize I have posted the last few times without photos, so here is a catch up.

This is our latest ultrasound. I thought it was adorable that we got such an amazing of his hand. We printed this one especially for daddy because he couldn't be there. Richard just beamed when I sent it to him. He is such a proud daddy already.

This is my first time every making homemade bread. By homemade I mean, by hand in the oven not in a bread maker. I was proud of myself. I am into experimenting in the kitchen lately with all the free time I have. I am also trying to be self reliant so I don't have to spend so much money on groceries.

ITS A BOY!!!!!!

2008-08-07T21:45:00.002-08:00

Yay!! Today is one of the greatest days of our lives. After confusion and miscommunication I finally went to our sonogram today. Little Jackson Lee Dalton will be the next addition to our family. The technician was so wonderful. During the hour long appointment, she measured everything from Head to brain to feet to legs and organs. He was so active the whole time she was examining me. It seemed as if he knew what she was doing, because when she went to measure his face he put his hands up there, when she got to the umbilical cord he started playing with it. He did sommersaults and flips like crazy. I love that my baby is active. Another cool thing is she measured me at 22 weeks 3 days which is actually 9 days ahead of what we initially thought. I am so stoked. This is so real. I have always wanted to be a mommy and finally it is coming true. I am truly blessed with this great responsiblity. I am blessed with the most wonderful husband that supports me every step of the way and is just as involved as I am. Jackson has the best daddy. I thank Heavenly Father every day for this lovely gift and hope that I can make him proud.

Ultrasound!!

2008-07-28T16:14:00.004-08:00

So as you know, today was supposed to be the day we find out what we are having. Well, we got to our doctor's appointment and apparently my doctor forgot to place an order for me to have the ultrasound. Let me explain, the military facility that I have my appointments at don't have enough technicians so they have to call our insurance company and put out an order for the ultrasound. The insurance comp. then calls me and tells me where to go (an outside source not on base). She forgot to make the call. And with Richard leaving on Friday to go to California for a month we will not be finding out until september. I was/am heartbroken. I cried. Probably made the doctor uncomfortable but I was upset. So needless to say we still don't know. But on the other hand the baby is doing great. He/she is right on schedule, with a heartbeat of 150. I can't wait for movement.

Memories!!!

2008-07-24T20:24:00.003-08:00

Okay so being pregnant I have all this time to think, well mostly it's just my mind wandering, and lately one place it wanders the most is my past and all of my friends old and new. I won't go into a huge sob story but about 4 years ago someone who I thought I was dear friends with didn't have the courage to call and ask for help so instead got evicted from his apartment which mean't all my belongings that I had so faithfully stored with him were too evicted. And in the world or evicitions that means thrown away not able to retrieve. In those belongings were my 2 scrapbooks that I had made with every picture I ever owned and a few journals. Yes, I lost a lot of things but out of everything those make my sad the most. So during all my wanderings I began to think, "why not just ask your friends?" So I ask each of you, if you have any memories/pictures of me/us I would be eternally grateful if you shared them with me. I am gonna start to put a time line together so my children have something to read about. I would love any story or stories. I am truly blessed with an abundance of friends in my life. I am grateful for each and every one of you, and look forward to the times when our paths cross again.

Baby Names!

2008-07-19T19:52:00.002-08:00

Alright, 8 days and counting. One of my many requests was to have baby names picked out when we go to our next doctor's appointment. So Richard and I sat down yesterday and decided on two. They came so easily. I picked the girls name and he picked the boys name. Also we looked up on the web site howmanyofme.com to check to see how popular the names were. Needless to say they have very good odds. These are the names we love. For a girl MADISON SUSAN (Susan is Richards moms name) and for a boy JACKSON LEE (lee is richards middle name). It finally feels real. I am so super excited to find out what we are having. Tell me what you think.

I've been TAGGED!!!!

2008-07-19T19:34:00.003-08:00

A is for Age: 28 (so close to 30)

B is for Burger of choice: one with cheese, lettuce, bacon, ketchup, mustard. Oh as long as its good.

C is for Car I drive: 2008 Toyota Rav4.

D is for Dogs name: we don't have a dog, but when we do get one, Richard will name it.

E is for Essential item you use every day: my lotion, body and face. It is too dry in Alaska to not use it.

F is for your Favorite TV show: I love love love Army Wives

G is for your favorite Game: Scattergories

H is for Home state: Michigan

I is for Instruments you play: none, but I would love to play the piano

J is for favorite Juice: Orange

K is for whose bum would you like to Kick: the people who can't make up there minds about Richard going to Iraq or not

L is for Last restaurant at which you ate: McGinleys

M is for your favorite Muppet: I don't even remember the muppets

N is for the Number of piercings: one in each ear

O is for the Overnight hospital stays: none yet

P is for People you were with today: Richard, Jon, Schneider, Fautch and Hurst

Q is for what do you do with your Quiet time: read, do crosswords/sudoku or sleep

R is for biggest Regret: I don't believe in regrets

S is for status: Married

T is for Time you woke up today: 9:30

U is for what you consider unique about yourself: I don't think there is anything

V is for Vegetable you love: Asparagus

W is for Worst habit: biting my nails

X is for X-rays you've had: Dental, and a ton after my car accident oh and in 6th grade when I broke my leg

Y is for Yummy food you ate today: mozzarella sticks from Arby's (a craving)

Z is for Zodiac: Gemini

I tag Jamie, Tiffany and Melinda. Love you girls.

Just checkin in!!

2008-07-14T14:50:00.004-08:00

So I need to apologize, it has been almost a month since I last posted. I don't have any exciting news, or fun stories. Life here in Alaska is pretty dull right now. We are just living day to day because being in the military that is all you are allowed to live. You never know what the next day will have in store.

However, in two weeks (July 28) we go in for our 20 week visit and that my friends is the fun one. We get to find out what we will be having. You better believe we will have a post for that day. So until then, everyone take care and have a freakin fantastic week.

Finally something new to write about.

2008-06-16T12:40:00.004-08:00

After almost a whole month without a car and driving a rental we finally went car shopping. We decided to go back to the same dealership where we bought our truck because they were so friendly and helped us out in any way possible. They were the same this time. We told them exactly what we were looking for in a car (something that can hold our family, very safe, gas efficient, can pull a trailer and that won't cost an arm and a leg) the salesman took us right to an SUV. It had everything we wanted and then some. After thinking about it for a day and talking about it we went back on Friday and bought it. It helped that we had already had credit with that dealership so they took us immediately. After less than an hour we drove off the lot in a 2008 Toyota Rav4. I love it, and the more Richard drives it, he loves it too.

Trip to Portage Glacier

2008-06-16T12:11:00.003-08:00

A few weeks ago we took Jon on some sightseeing around Alaska. One of the places I have always wanted to go was The Portage Glacier. It was beautiful. It's tucked away way off of the main roads behind the mountains. I love glaciers, they are very fascinating to me. It was a wonderful day. Jon seemed to have fun too. Just another reason to love Alaska.

All things pregnant!

2008-05-28T16:03:00.005-08:00

I went to my first real pre-natal visit yesterday. I say that because although I have been to the hospital and doctor's office twice now, those were for emergencies, this one was scheduled and did all the technical stuff. It went really well. I have lucked out with not having any really bad symptoms, except I am extremely tired a lot of the time. All of my vitals checked out wonderfully, the babies heartbeat is 157bpm which is perfect. I am no longer a difficult case. I can go on and have a normal pregnancy. That was music to my ears. I am almost through my first trimester so I hope this next one brings great things. I have made a few friends out here that are wives/girlfriends of my husbands friends and they are also pregnant so I have a wonderful support group. Its a different life being pregnant, in the military and so far away from home. I have a wonderful husband though, he is taking care of me any way he can. Just love him to pieces.

My worst nightmare came true.

2008-05-20T07:54:00.008-08:00

While I was away for work over the weekend, nothing good was happening. I realized that I really don't want to work on the train, and I missed my husband immensely. Well I guess what they say is true. We should always listen to our gut. I didn't feel right all day saturday and then sunday morning I got a phone call from Jon saying Richard was in a car accident.

He was T-boned and then hit a light post.

All the tires exploded, air bags deployed, back window was shattered and back lights blown out.

His driver side door was pushed in so far that they couldn't get him out, so they had to rip it off.

Looking at the truck, and all that happened to it, we both think Richard should not have survived or at least been in a bad state, but someone was watching out for him that night. The only injuries he had were a bloody nose, and bruises from the seat belts. We are so grateful for this second chance. Richard is still a little shocked and seeing the truck after the fact made him relive it but he is doing okay. I thank Heavenly Father every day that he is still with us.

I think the Lord is trying to tell us to be prepared.......

2008-05-09T16:04:00.002-08:00

So July 2, 2007 I met Richard, 5 months later we got married, and moved into a new apartment. 4 months after that we found out we were pregnant and the very next day moved into another apartment, and then my brother moved in with us. Just two days ago we found out that Richard is getting out of the army earlier than expected which means in 4 months we will be moving again this time to the lower 48. That puts us in august/september and then 4 months from then our little bundle of joy is due. Do you see a pattern? I was talking to my mom the other day on the phone and her being wise says "I think this is the Lords way of teaching us to be flexible and able to change, so if anything comes along, we can handle it." I don't for one second think things happen just because, there is a plan and man I hope we pass the test. It definitely keeps us on our toes and life is never dull. I am grateful for the lessons we are given in life whether great or small.

And then there were three.............

2008-05-06T10:49:00.002-08:00

Yep, we are pregnant!!! I know I have told a lot of you already but it's actually real now. We went to the doctor this morning as a follow up of some complications we had two weeks ago and everything checked out wonderfully. We are 8 weeks and 1 day along. The baby's heart beat was perfect and he/she is moving along just great. It is such a different feeling to actually hear and see your baby for the first time. Something that I will never forget.

As for everything else in our lives we are doing well. Richard is working hard and I on the other hand am not working. I did get the okay today so I plan on looking for something to keep me busy. My youngest brother Jonathon moved in with us on the 26th, it's been great thus far. Him and Richard have gotten along very smoothly, that makes me very happy. We are loving our new apartment and all that comes with it. Overall life is wonderful.

So many changes.....

2008-04-21T09:15:00.004-08:00

Well first we just moved into a new apartment. It's technically our first place. We were subletting before so this is new and exciting for us. It is a 3 bedroom apartment with a nice size living room and separate space for dining room and a fireplace. Oh yeah it has it's own washer and dryer. (thats a plus) We haven't fully moved in and decorated yet so when that's done we'll put in pictures of it. It's expensive to furnish a home.

Next we bought new cell phones. We just thought it was time. Yes, we splurged, we purchased blackberry's. With me being gone almost all summer this phone was perfect. It's basically a computer so I can still check email, our blog, and pay all the bills. Plus it came with a lot of extra details that are really fun for us. Richard was ecstatic. In fact he hasn't really put it down for more than 5 minutes. haha

Lastly I finally start working on Thursday and then Jon will be here on Saturday. I just love how everyday is a new experience. There is no getting comfortable here, always on my toes.

Snow in April!!

2008-04-21T09:04:00.003-08:00

Is it April or January? With all the snow we have outside you can't tell. Richard and I went for a nice walk and took some pictures. The flower looking one is me attempting art...:)

Just an update!!

2008-04-10T16:37:00.002-08:00

It's been a while since we posted. Not a whole lot is going on. It does seem like time is moving slow though. It's probably because in 5 days we are moving to our own place. We get to decorate and buy furniture and basically get everything you need for a home. Since we don't have anything, this could be stressful and fun. We get to shop!!!!! Believe it or not Richard likes to shop maybe more than me. I finally start working in 2 weeks. YAY! Lastly my youngest brother Jon is moving to Alaska on the 26th to live with us and help us out. I think Richard is more excited than me. Other than my mom he hasn't met anyone in my family. I really think they will get along very well. Oh and finally CSI: Las Vegas is finally back on. Stupid writers strike. But at least it's back.

Heavy Heart

2008-04-02T11:04:00.004-08:00

Oh wow it's a beautiful day. The sun is shining and there is a light breeze, Spring is in the air. I love it. I can't help but have a heavy heart though. We have had some things happen in our family that I will not go into detail about but I do ask all of you for our prayers. The Lord has blessed me with a heart that breaks fairly easy because of all the love I feel for my friends and family. I pray that it will mend soon. Richard again shined magnificantly through it all. He is such a calm wave in this crazy mixed up world. His kind words and loving arms always make me melt. He is my rock and I am so grateful the Lord blessed me with this wonderful man. We will get through anything together. That is all for now. Have a wonderful spring day.

Love Mom

2008-03-28T07:48:00.002-08:00

Hello my lovlies,
Today is a beautiful day and it is Friday to boot, that means the weekend is almost here. Gotta watch Michigan State play Memphis tonight. Go Sparty!!!!Who wants to make a prediction for the final two teams?? I say UCLA and Michigan State. Any takers???
Hope you got some rest Miss Holly. Hang in there, rough days are just temporary and the best ones outweigh the yukky ones by far.
Happy Friday everyone,
Love Mommy boy

Can't sleep!

2008-03-27T00:46:00.004-08:00

Yep it's 12:45 in the morning. My tummy is upset, my husband is snoring and my roommates won't stop opening and closing their door. So I decide to get up and play on the computer until I am so freaking tired I can't keep my eyes open. It's amazing how quiet it is at night. I swear you can hear everything. Our house is so not sound proof. I hear cars, and people walking by, the wind blowing, neighbors talking, dogs barking, neighbors walking up the stairs, doors opening and closing, you name it I hear it. T.V. shows crap at this time at night. Maybe I am having a pity party for myself right now but I just want to go to sleep......:(

Just some thoughts

2008-03-25T10:38:00.005-08:00

Today is a good day already. Woke up from a wonderful nights rest feeling awake and alert. Switched over Richards uniform to a clean one, packed his bad for PT and made his lunch. Kissed him goodbye and got to working on the house. Cleaned the dishes and kitchen and did my pilates workout. Folded some laundry and made the bed. Opened up the blinds and it snowed last night. Not a ton but some flurries. The sun is shining already at 10:45 so it is just looking to be a beautiful day. I can't help but think of all I am grateful for. I am so blessed to have a husband that loves me and treats me like a queen. I have the most wonderful family. We are scattered around the country but we are still strong and linked in love. I have a place to live. I have clothes to wear and food to eat. I have a car that is very reliable. I have the ability to hear, see, smell, touch and feel. I am healthy. I live in a free country because of the men and women who are fighting for us. I have great friends. I am honored to live in this time where I have so many opportunities and choices for my life. I can do whatever I want. I am so blessed to have a Lord who loves me unconditionally. I am thankful for books and education. I love the reminder of beauty outside that makes my anger or sadness just whither away. I am grateful for second chances and forgiveness and repentance, whether it be from Heavenly Father, my husband, or my family. I am so happy to be able to live every day.

Happy Easter!!!!

2008-03-24T09:33:00.003-08:00

Well another holiday has come and gone. We didn't really plan anything but it ended up being a great day. Richard and I love breakfast. It is by far our favorite meal, so we ran to the store to pick up a few things and came home and cooked. It was really sweet to be in the kitchen with him. He is so anxious to learn how to cook. He watches me whenever he gets a chance and is always willing to help. He made the pancakes from scratch (mom he is a natural) and just kept me company while I was in the kitchen. I fall in love with him more and more when he does little things like that for me. Our roommates were here too so we made breakfast for them too. It was nice to have another couple around. We all just hung out and played monopoly, scattergories, trouble and yahtzee. It reminded me of all of you. All of the holiday's growing up was all about family time and just having fun. We did make dinner. Again Richard helped with dinner, he made the mashed potatoes and frosting for the cake. He is getting to be pretty good in the kitchen. I am thoroughly impressed. I was joking around with him and said, "so when I get pregnant, or I am sick, you can cook for me", he just laughed and said "i order take-out very well." Oh well, guess we will have to keep working on the training. :) It was overall a wonderful day. Full of laughter, smiles, good food, games and happiness.

Hello from Utah

2008-03-19T16:30:00.002-08:00

So I am trying this out an dit seems to work. Nothing fancy going on here except beautiful weather. Sunny, breezy and 55 degrees. I am working a 12 hour shift today so cannot take my daily evening walk :-( Let's see who else responds.
See ya'll later dudes

Scared!

2008-03-19T09:23:00.004-08:00

So this morning after Richard left for PT, I of course went back to sleep. I was enjoying my sleep when all of the sudden I heard this crash that scared me so bad that I sat straight up in bed. I called for Lesley's name and my heart was racing so bad. It sounded like a window had been broken. I was so afraid that something had happened in Lesley's bedroom. (we have a bunch of crazy people that live around us and her window faces the road) so we both got up and realized we were fine so where did it come from...........we finally checked the bathroom and the shower rod and curtain had fallen down. OH MY GOODNESS...we laughed for a few minutes but then took a deep breath glad that was the problem and not something else. Stupid shower rod.

Weekend!

2008-03-17T08:55:00.005-08:00

We relaxed this weekend. It is always nice for Richard when the weekend comes because he finally gets to relax. Friday we went out to eat and bowling with a bunch of his friends. I just love his friends. They are all different from one another but they mesh together like one big family. Some of the wives and girlfriends were there too so that was nice to meet some of them and make friendships. It's nice to have a support system.
On sunday we did see the movie Horton Hears a Who. It was really cute. I just love animated films. Steve Carell and Jim Carrey are a good pair. I would definitely recommend it especially if you have children. I had the opportunity to sit next to a little girl, she looked about 4 years old. To hear a child laugh during a movie is just precious. I couldn't help but laugh every time she did. It just melts your heart. Children are so wonderful. I find myself being baby hungry. Richard puts up with me a lot when I talk about kids. I think he wants them too, so we are okay. We're working on it...:)
Well that is about it for now. Got a busy day planned today.

One of those days...

2008-03-14T15:08:00.004-08:00

"Do you ever have one of those days, where you feel so helpless or like you can't do anything right?" Today is that day. I woke up kind of grumpy and snapped at Richard. I hate doing that. The look on his face just breaks my heart. He left for work and I started to work on our blog, and our internet shut off like 3 times, during it. Urgh!!!! Then nothing good came in the mail. All bills!!!!!! I decided to give up for a while and went to load the dishwasher.....well little did I know that it was flooded. Our roommate did dishes the night before and it ended up flooding. Our sink was full of water too. I had no idea how to clean it out, so instead of calling a plumber or someone I used every towel we own and just soaked it up. I ended up taking a piece of it apart so I could get all the water and now I can't get the piece back on. To make matters worse, I have to do the dishes in the sink now (but not on the side with the disposal cuz it will back up). Just when I thought it couldn't get any worse, I recieved a comment from a very dear friend on facebook and it made my day all better.
I just need to remember trials happen for a reason and no matter what we are loved, by someone, and if not anyone at least we have our Heavenly Father.

Family Time!

2008-03-14T10:05:00.005-08:00

Because we are new at this I wanted to make a spot for Family. You are all an important piece of our lives. Without you we would be nothing.

2007!

2008-03-14T09:41:00.004-08:00

It started with an idea to move to Alaska to work for Princess Tours. Then the interview came and I was hired. So now it was real. I worked my tail off to get me there, and the day finally came on May 2, 2007 for me leave. A very good friend of mine picked me up from the airport in Anchorage. This was a very new experince for me and I was so nervous yet excited. The job started May 8. It is a very intense job with a lot of demanding hours but totally worth it. I had the intention of living here for the summer and getting out when the job was over. Little did I know that there were other plans in store for me. On July 2, 2007 exactly 2 months after I arrived in AK, I met Richard. He had showed up with about 15 of his friends at the same place I was. Richard and I hit it off immediately. If there was a such thing as love at first sight, then this was it. We were oblivious as to what was going on around us. For the next 2 days we were inseperable. But jobs ended up calling and we had to get back on with our life. I never gave him my number (because he didn't ask), but that didn't stop him, he found a way to get and within the next day he was texting and calling me. That was it. I was his from that day on. We decided to get married in October. He bought me my ring in November and we got married in December. It was a very small ceremony with my mom and 6 other friends. It was wonderful.

Getting Started

2008-03-13T22:39:00.003-08:00

We are new to the blogging world. So many of our friends have a page so we thought we would join in. I like the idea of being able to share thoughts, feelings, pictures and every day happenings with the ones we love.
Richard and I got married on December 8, 2007. We live in Alaska while he is stationed at Fort Richardson. We should only have about 2 years left of the military and then heading back to the lower 48. We do like it up here though. It is the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. With some of the tallest mountains and greenest trees sitting under the bluest skies, its definitely truth that there is a God. Richard is an engineer in the Army and I am an On-board trainer for Princess Tours. My job is only seasonal so right now I am unemployed. That means I get to take care of the house and cook and basically be the housewife that as a little girl always wanted to be. :) I do miss working though.
The next couple of days I will catch you all up on the last year of our lives. Keep an eye out for new blogs.