Lancaster's

Family Photos

2012-01-27T12:02:00.001-08:00

Well I guess I don't need to post the family pictures since they are on my blog header which ended up being HUMUNGO!!! ha ha. It's never been that big so I guess I will leave it for a while and see if I like it.

Those are our family photos for the beginning of 2012. We have a friend here in Dallas who took them for us. She does GREAT work! You can check out her other pictures HERE. If you look at our blog header those are the pictures. My favorite it one is of Ranger and June. Pretending to ignore each other but really they are best friends... Or we like to pretend they are. The weather turned out perfect and we had a great time shooting photos. It made Dan and I think of our engagement pictures and how long ago that felt. Now look at what we have created. I was super stoked to get family pics with Range in them, because he was the start of our family and it was fun trying to capture the photos with him. Lauren did a great job getting his attention!

I hope you enjoy the photo's because they aren't going anywhere for a while.. and every time you open my blog page BAM!!! They are in your face!

Anyone Pinterested?

2012-01-26T17:31:00.000-08:00

Pinterest.

Let's not pretend that you aren't all addicted to this website.

Let's not pretend that we all pin things that we will never eat, never make, or never can happen.

It's true, I am one of the guilty ones, but I realized something...

I may not do EVERYTHING I pin, but that's not the point. The point is that it's fun and if you get around to making a few things, tasting different foods and putting a smile on your face from the humor section than I think that pinterest has done it's Job.

Holy crap I just went off about pinterest. That was not the purpose of this post.

Here we go.

I decided that I am going to start doing things that I have pinned. Now that I am a stay at home mom, I seem to have quite a few minutes on my hands, so once a week I am going to make an effort to do something on pinterest, (or other craft websites I have bookmarked). It might be to just share a Joke that I have read, make something delicious, or actually take the time to create a craft from one of the hundreds of pins I have in my boards. So starting now.

I have made a few things already so I am going to share.

This is one of the first things I saw and made from pinterest. A bow holder. An old frame, some paint, ribbon, staple gun and little metal hooks. You have yourself a bow holder.

I made these a little while ago when I first saw the idea. I like the just plain ribbon ones, don't get me wrong, but I think that these textured ones are much more fun. Ribbon, some hooky things, and a sewing machine. Done. (If only June would take a pacifier a little more often...)

This week is little flower headbands. Not that I don't have a million already, but I feel a girl can never have to many accessories, and plus the majority of my friends who are pregnant are having girls, so they make great little gifts.

Felt flowers, ribbon, and some hot glue. Done.

Next week is going to be even better and maybe a little more challenging ha ha.

So really, I want to keep this going. I feel like such a domestic stay at home mom when I make things with a sewing machine, a hot glue gun or a kitchen aid.. So...Ya... making things.

Please Join me.

3 Month Update

2012-01-20T21:21:00.000-08:00

Dear June,

Yep another month has passed! I know I say it every month but you have changed so much. I think you have changed more in the past month than the other two. You are getting to be so much fun! You are laughing and smiling so much more and getting more excited when you see me or daddy.

For 3 months old you are in the 20th percentile of weight and above the 60th percentile in Height. You are one LONG chicka. Your poor legs stick out of your pants like they are capris, so I had to go up a size just to have them long enough, but they don't fit around your waist. We are still working on figuring that part out.

Your new favorite thing is me singing "I'm a Little Tea Pot" to you and the Alphabet song. You just laugh and smile when we sing those songs, though sometimes you get a look on your face like "Mom, please stop singing, we have done it a million times!" I can't help it though I love hearing you laugh and seeing you smile.

Your dad and I are loving taking you places and experiencing things with you for the first time. This month you became an international flyer and experienced the freezing cold of the North. You got to see and play in the snow for the first time. We lasted all of five minutes but it was still fun.

You are still sleeping like a champ. You are out of your bassinet, but your still in our room. You take naps in your crib, but I'm just not ready to have you in the other room. It's selfish, but I don't think it will cause any developmental problems for you. We have done the whole crying out thing for about a week now and we think we are all getting the hang of it. We have come to the realization that you might be a night owl like your mother and like to stay up late. So after trying to put you down at 6... Then 7... Then 8... We figured out that you prefer to take a late nap and then go to bed at around 9. That seems to be working out great for everyone.

June, your are melting our hearts more and more every single day. I just can't get enough of you. You and Range are getting more friendly and Ranger loves to play with you more and more. Your kicking legs intrigue him to play with you and your socks don't stay on very long. We are working with him, but he is a sneaky little bugger.

Well that is all I have to update for your 3 month. I could say over and over again, how much I love you, but there isn't enough space on the blog! Honey I love you, your daddy loves you, and we think Ranger loves you too! Can't wait for the next month of Adventures!

Love you June-a-bea,

Love Mom.

Downgrade for an Upgrade

2012-01-14T19:59:00.000-08:00

Ok, first of all I am typing this on Dan's iPad because I don't have my computer with me but I really feel like blogging, so it might have some errors and really weird sentences, but I will try my best to make it as normal as I can.

So we signed another lease for 6 months at a different complex today. Yep! We are moving again.

Right now we are in a townhouse which we like, but they are jacking up the price of our rent, and we don't like it THAT MUCH! We are moving into a cheaper place for six months which means a smaller place, but MORE SAVINGS! I think it's going to be a little tough going back to an apartment, but we know it will be all worth it in the long run. And it just sets us up better financially. It wouldn't be a problem if our plan was to not get a house for a while, but we are really trying to get into one by the end of summer and we want to make sure we have a good sized down payment, but also not completely draining our emergency savings. I mean if we did that, what would Suze Orman think? Plus we want to make sure we have funds for any necessary renovations. So we are taking it down a notch. It will be a good little change for a while and a story to tell the kids of a small sacrifice for a greater gain. Really, Truly inspirational.... ha ha. We are planning to start the house hunt in April with a realtor and hoping to find a nice little starter home by July or August. That's the goal anyways! We will see if we can make it. That gives us a month leeway to paint and do any renovations before we move in September. I'm really excited about it. I feel so grown up talking about purchasing a home, and I have already started the Magazine collection of home ideas. I get a little carried away when I get something in my head.

So here is a cheer to our move and to saving, saving, saving!

Laughing at 25

2012-01-09T17:31:00.001-08:00

So I turned 25. I'm actually not feeling to bad about it, simply because I'm where I want to be in life and where I thought I would be at 25. So I was excited for my 25th Birthday. I like my birthday. This year the greatest gift was that our luggage came. It had been 24 hours and we were getting worried that it wouldn't be there until Christmas eve. Dan was especially excited because my birthday gifts were in there and he wanted to make sure to give them to me on my actual birthday.

To celebrate 25, Dan gave me Brian Regan tickets for his show in Dallas. We both love Brian Regan! For those of you who don't know him he is a very funny comedian and has clean humor which is even better. Go check him out on you tube.

We dropped June off at the Mott's... Thank you Mary and Luke, and headed into the City. Dan and I decided that this year, every month we are going to do a date in the City. We are calling it our "Dallas Date" along with getting the blizard of the month from Dairy Queen. It's going to be awesome!

The show was FANTASTIC. I had a massive headache from laughing so hard and my face and jaw hurt so bad. It was fun to just spend the evening with Dan. Even though we missed our little June, it was nice getting away just me and him. It made for a great 25th birthday!

Our one picture that we took, we got in trouble for taking pictures.

A Farewell to 2011 and A Hello to 2012

2012-01-02T11:33:00.000-08:00

2011.

What a year.

It's time to get the 2011 blog printed, but before I send it off, I wanted to make sure I write how 2011 went for Dan and I. I feel that this was the biggest year for Dan and I since we have been married. I look back at the past year and I have realized how blessed Dan and I have been. It's crazy how much our lives changed just in one year. So here is the main 11 from 2011.

Celebrated Ranger's first Birthday
We found out I was pregnant after trying for 2 1/2 years
Dan graduated from Baylor with a Masters
We moved to Dallas for Dan to do his internship at Pioneer
We went on a cruise
Dan was offered a full time position at Pioneer
We traveled to British Columbia for a family reunion
Celebrated June with 4 baby showers
Went to Idaho for two weeks
The GREATEST thing was bringing June Loretta into our lives
Dan gave June a blessing with our families together

Like I said, Blessed.

A lot of changes happened in 2011. I loved it. I loved it. I loved it. I am sad to see 2011 go, but I can't wait to see what the year 2012 brings. Here are some of mine and Dan's 2012 resolutions or goals.

Be in a house before June's first Birthday
Read through the Book of Mormon
Hit my pre- Dan weight. (How much I weighed before I met Dan. 15 more pounds to go)
Be more consistent with Family Home Evening
Experiment more with different foods and make a new meal once a week
Read more
Take more photos and videos of June
Play the guitar together a lot more

Wish us luck on our 2012. And good luck with yours.

Canada Christmas 2011 i

2012-01-01T18:20:00.001-08:00

Oh Christmas.... Your blog posts are always so long but I must do it to save the memories.

I was super excited for Christmas this year because it was June's first Christmas. I have to admit that it took me a while to get into the Christmas season. I think a little swig of the baby blues hit me and knocked me out of my Christmas cheer, but once I started decorating the house and buying gifts for the family, my heart grew three sizes and I felt Christmas officially began.

It didn't help that our flying up to Canada was awful. (Read previous post) Once we got up to Canada the angry feelings went away and it was great to be with Dan's family. Another Confession... I do struggle not being with my family at Christmas. You think by now I would be used to it, but there is just something about being home for Christmas. I know it was Dan's turn to be home for Christmas so I try to make it as special as he does for me when we are at my house.

It was such a fun Christmas with June. We had so much fun shopping for her, getting her Christmas eve pajamas and spoiling her even though she had no clue at what was going on.

We were secretly wishing June's passport would have been small since it was for a baby but it was just a regular one. She got a stamp in her passport though. Her first one at 2 months old. I didn't leave the country until I was 14.

In Calgary they have a tradition that the firemen dress up as Santa and bring Candy Canes to the children on Christmas eve. I wanted a picture with June and Santa but everywhere I went they wanted to charge me like $25.00 so I was very happy to get one on Christmas eve.

We opened pajamas. Without planning it, Dan and I both got each other Dallas Maverick Pajamas. It was awesome. We did the Nativity with June being Jesus, I was Mary, and Dan was the Donkey. My little Neice Isis with Joseph.... She REALLY WANTED TO BE JOSEPH.

Now that I'm older I actually enjoyed church on Christmas. It was fun singing all the Christmas songs and really celebrating the saviors birth. Plus I was able to dress June up in her Christmas dress and glitter toed shoes. It was really fun!

Ranger got a family of Hogs for Christmas. They are his FAVORITE TOYS!

Dan and I were extra spoiled this year. It's much more fun not being poor college students anymore. Dan gave me a new SLR Cannon Camera and he got a new XBOX since his got the ring of death two years ago. June got a ton of clothes and toys from us, grams and gramps, and aunts and uncles. It was so fun!

The next day was boxing day. We got up and went shopping. We dared faced the crowds. June slept the entire time. She is amazing... Time for another one? ha ha

The next two days we spent with our friends. We went up to banff which is the most beautiful place! I can't believe how lucky we are that we get to go there in just a short drive when people fly millions of miles to go there.

Us Girls.

This is how Dan and I really are. We just pretend to be normal in photos.

I love my little family.

We went ice skating on a frozen pond. Dan and I are REally bad at ice skating.

The view.

It was such a fun holiday. I really love Christmas and the spirit and happiness you feel through out the season. If only our flight home would have gone smoothly, but it was an adventure and we are always up for an adventure.

It's Worth Sharing

2011-12-29T20:05:00.001-08:00

Hello Blog Readers.
I plan on blogging about Christmas very soon, and how awesome it was celebrating with June, but before I get to that wonderful holiday I feel its worth mentioning the HELL (pardon the language) we went through to get to Canada and back to Texas.

We booked our tickets on Cheaptickets.com in July to make the expense of flying international a little cheaper and so that there wouldn't be any problems when it was time to fly. We wanted to make traveling during the holiday's a little easier since we would have June and Ranger with us.

(Call #1) December 12th comes and in order to fly with a dog you have to call and make a reservation for the pet. Our flight schedule was fly up to Canada with Continental airlines and fly home with American airlines. I called Continental on the 12th to reserve a spot for Ranger. The agent on the phone told me that there was a problem with our tickets, that they have June and me as an adult and Dan as the infant. The Agent said it shouldn't be a problem?!?? Really?!?! So she said we can book your dog a ticket, but I didn't have my credit card at the time so I had to call back.

(Call #2)December 13th: I call Continental with my credit card number for Rangers ticket and the agent then said there was a problem with the tickets (Same story I heard already), but this time she said that there was nothing Continental could do and that we would have to call Cheaptickets.com to fix the problem, and we would also have to call American airline to fix the problem for the flight home.

(Call #3) December 13th: Call Cheaptickets.com they said that their records show that all the names are correct and that it is a continental issue and that they couldn't solve the problem themselves.... (I said a swear word at this point)

(Call #4) December 13th: I call Continental and they say the exact same thing... (I Hung up on the agent)
-Dan takes over at this point-

(Call #5) December 14th: Dan calls Cheaptickets again. They call Continental. The agent from cheaptickets said that the problem is solved and that June is now the infant and Dan and I are shown as adults... FANTASTIC.

(Call #6) December 21st/22nd: 10:30p.m. I first Call American airline to confirm that the information shows correctly on their side. It does... I also book a reservation for Ranger. Confirmed. I then call continental to confirm and make a reservation for Ranger. They said I couldn't because June is showing as the adult and Dan the infant and they can't solve the problem. I said another bad word.. or two...or three... I am on the phone with continental until 3:30 in the morning. We got a free ticket and everything it resolved.

(Call #7) December 22nd: I call American airlines again to CONFIRM Ranger and that our tickets are correct. The agent GUARANTEED ALL information was correct.

December 22nd: Go to the airport. Our tickets can't print because June is the adult and Dan is the infant (SHOCKER!!) Good thing we arrived early. Took an extra hour! Get through security.
Flight is delayed 15min.... 30 min.... 1 hour.... 1 1/2 hours.... Its finally here. We fly on the WORST and LOUDEST PLANE EVER! I made a video of how loud it was. I can't wait to share it.

We arrive with about a half hour to make it to our connecting flight. The gate agent tells us that we wouldn't make it and that she rebooked us for the next flight out. Great! That gives us an extra hour to get something to eat and stretch out legs. She said we just need to go to the gate agent at the other flight to get our tickets... About six of us go over there and that agent hadn't heard a thing. At this point we had missed our flight with no connecting flight in site.
3 Continental managers later everyone gets a ticket but us.... Why you ask? Because our child is showing as an Adult and Dan as a child. They re-worked out tickets, hand wrote one of them and we made the flight...
4 hours later than we should have.. We arrive in Canada. We go to get the carseat from cabside check in... They haven't seen a carseat. (They accidently checked it.) Had to wait.

We watch all the luggage come out. Of course none of ours. Our luggage was lost. They said it would arrive on the next flight... Our luggage missed that flight and didn't arrive in Canada until about 8:00pm the next night. My Birthday. With a baby you can't just go without things so we had to go buy Everything!!!

COMING HOME:
Go Check in. Oh what? June is the Adult and Dan the infant? I haven't heard that before. Remember I called to confirm that it was all correct. We are holding up the line and American Airlines computer goes down. We have an hour before our flight leaves and we still have customs and security to go through. We FINALLY get it all worked out and then they tell us that Ranger might not be able to fly because there are to many pets on board. I MADE A FRIKIN RESERVATION!!! I had to walk away and Dan took over because I was embarrassing him. FINALLY! with ANOTHER hand written ticket and ANOTHER delayed flight we made it.
Thanks goodness we had a direct flight. Range had enough and wasn't so good on the plane. June was an angel and slept the whole time! That helped. Our luggage did make and we are now home safe and sound.
I have never been through that horrible of an experience. I feel really bad for the rude comments and bad language but I was in the heat of the moment and I am hoping that I'm forgiven.

June hits 2 months

2011-12-21T11:13:00.000-08:00

Dear June,

You have hit your 2 months old mark. Say what?!? Oh how you have changed just in the past two months. I love it and hate it all at the same time. It’s so fun watching you grow and see more of a little personality come out, but it’s hard to not have you be a newborn anymore. You are still in some newborn clothes, mostly the onesies. You’re practically in 3-6mo pants because your legs are so long. Even the pediatrician can’t get over how long your legs are.

You’re so funny at the things you do. We bought you a swing this month because your dad and I both got so tired of bouncing you so hard in your bouncer that we needed something that would move you automatically. Though you prefer your bouncer the swing keeps you moving. You LOVE to move. We practically hit the floor when bouncing you in your bouncer and the swing has to be going full speed in order to keep you happy. We think your going to love roller coasters and crazy rides when you get older just because of how vigorously you love to move.

I think that it’s safe to say you officially sleep through the night. You will take a nap around 8p.m wake up at about 10p.m for one last feeding frenzy and then your out until about 7 or 8a.m. You do still have a random fussy time for about an hour at night, but its alright, it gives me an excuse to just hold you without having to worry about anything else.

You’re really lazy when it comes to tummy time. You really don’t try at all. I would be concerned about your neck if you weren’t already holding it on your own, but you seem to be doing just fine. Tummy time just makes you fall asleep, or you start getting upset, so tummy time doesn’t last that long.

The pacifier still isn’t happening. You will take it if your hungry and I keep holding it while in your mouth, but as soon as I let go, you spit it out. I know you really hate it because you are gagging on it any other time I try to give it to you other than when your hungry. So, no pacifier success.

You are smiling so much more now. Your Dad can get you smiling so much. I no longer think it’s the gas bubbles. I really think you are a happy baby. I’m glad you are smiling more now, before you had a natural frown on your face and you were always giving people dirty looks. I prefer the smiles.

Your Dad and I are so excited for your first Christmas. You have your very own passport and we can’t wait to show you off in Canada. You are only 8 weeks old, but we wrapped your gifts and got you stocking stuffers. We couldn’t resist. It’s going to be so fun!! We will see how you handle the freezing cold. I’m just praying you don’t get sick.

Well that is really all I wanted to share for your 2-month update. Time is flying by way to quickly, but I’m trying to capture as much as your life as I can to remember my favorite little things. You’re my favorite little person. I love you more than words could ever explain.

Love you my 2 -month old Juniper.

Love Mom.

Blessed

2011-12-12T14:40:00.000-08:00

A little late, I know, but I am finally getting to it.

We blessed June over Thanksgiving weekend in Idaho. The reason for doing it in Idaho is because all my family was there for Thanksgiving and it was easier for Dan's family to drive from Canada rather than fly. So we got permission from our bishop here in Texas and permission from my homeward back in Idaho.

It was such an amazing day. It is a day that really makes you realize the blessings you have in your life and how powerful it is to have a husband who holds the priesthood and that he can give our daughter a blessing. Dan did a great job and spoke from the heart. It was so amazing sitting in the pulpit surrounded by family and friends and hearing him bless our little girl. We were able to write down her blessing and plan to give it it her when she is older. I'm so grateful for all those who came and thankful for my in laws for making the drive all the way down to Rexburg.

By the end of the day, June was worn out. It's so true how cranky babies can get when they get out of routine. She was completely pooped! I don't blame her though, I would be too after being passed around so much. It was kinda nice though because she slept through the night.

We had a lot of family traditions for her blessing. The dress she wore was from the Lancaster side. All the granddaughters have been blessed in this dress and than Grandma Lancaster embroiders their name and the day they were born in it. Such a fun tradition! Than she wore the booties that every granddaughter on the Cheney side have worn. My aunt and uncles were blessed in these booties and now the grandchildren. I love that we have all these traditions that I really hope it continues.

4 Generations.

It was an even greater day because of all the hard work of my mom. June loves her grandma. She really knows her.

The great men in June's life. I love how June is curled up in Dan's arms. She is just way to precious!

I love her. I love her dad. I love the gospel. The end.

Welcome to Parenthood.

2011-12-03T21:00:00.001-08:00

I feel like tonight Dan and I experienced parenthood for the first time. June has been such a good baby and pretty easy that we feel our lives have gone on as normal, so we thought that we would push our luck and attempt going to a movie. We planned ahead and I fed her right before we went to the movie so that she would be so drunk on milk she would fall asleep and be snuggled in my arms for the movie. Well like I said, Parenthood happened. Dan was a trooper and took me to Twilight, Breaking Dawn. We sat at the very top and sort of on the end so we could stand and bounce June if necessary, but right at the last minute a stupid couple came and sat at the very end, like the worst seats in the show house so we thought no one would sit there. We figured it would be ok though. June slept through all the previews, but as soon as that opening scene started... eyes wide open and grunting. I am super paranoid about June making noises in places that babies really shouldn't be because I remember what it was like to have a baby being loud and rolling my eyes saying "why bring a child to a movie?" I now understand.

I felt bad for the couple sitting next to us, Dan was the best and took June out hoping she would fall back asleep.

He came back in...

She woke up...

He went back out...

I went out....

I came back in....

Dan came back in....

She woke up....

Dan went back out....

Dan STAYED OUT.

I watched the entire twilight movie by myself. I smiled and thought yep this is now our lives.

I came out of the movie theater and there was Dan just sitting there with June passed out in his arms and a smile on his face. We were thinking the exact same thing.

Welcome to parenthood.

*On a good note. One of the theater workers saw Dan out in the hall. She felt bad for Dan that he was out in the hall the whole time and gave us a free movie pass for the next time, which I'm not really sure when that will be.

My Newborn

2011-12-01T11:28:00.000-08:00

June's Newborns brought to you by Brooke Rasmussen and Megan Porter, Staring June Lancaster.

When I uploaded them some photos changed color weirdly. Not sure why. I'm struggling with the blog lately.

I HEART HER!

One Month

2011-11-20T13:38:00.000-08:00

I made June a blog and I am so excited about it! They are little notes to her so that I can document things that happen in her life and as she is growing up. I'm hoping I stick with it so that when she is old enough I can print it in a book and give it to her. I Just love her so much. If you would like to see her progression feel free to read it here. There will be things that I duplicate on her blog and our family blog, just giving you a warning.

Dear June,

Today you are one month old. I can't believe how much you have grown and how much I love being your mother. You are such a good baby that makes things very easy on me. I guess I expected the worst, but you have made me love being a mother.

You look just like your dad. Your a Lancaster for sure, though I am hoping as you grow older some of me comes out in you. I joke with people saying its a good thing you came out of me or I would wonder if you were my child.

You're such a great little sleeper and you eat like a champ. That's a very good thing! I think you have figured out your days and nights, which I am very thankful for. You hate any pacifier that we give you, and we have tried every kind. It would be nice sometimes if you took one but I guess it's one less habit we will have to break. For the most part you do a pretty good job at soothing yourself. Again MOST of the time. :)

When waking up you grunt and move around, you don't cry, but when your really mad you scream a very high pitched scream. I think it's adorable. Your puppy Range adores you. He is so protective over you and doesn't leave your side. He is always bringing you his toys to play with him, and rolls on top of you when you start kicking your legs. Don't worry we are working on that!!

OH you are so beautiful and I love that you are mine. This month has been so fun hanging out with you and laughing at the smallest things that you do, and people only tell me it gets better. I am very excited to start taking you out more and show off those chubby cheeks of yours.

June I love you so much. Your Dad loves you so much and he works so hard to provide for you. He would do anything for you. You seem so much more content when laying in his arms, maybe its because there is more cushion, not sure, but he loves you so much.

I love you.

Love Mom.

For You Megan Porter

2011-11-17T15:02:00.000-08:00

Megan, I am posting these pictures for others to enjoy.... But mostly for you, so that you will stop bugging me about seeing pictures of June! Love you.

HAPPY 4 YEARS TO US

2011-11-10T07:51:00.000-08:00

OBSESSED

2011-11-04T10:07:00.000-07:00

We are literally OBSESSED with June. I feel like I don't get anything done during the day because I just stare at her and still try to contemplate the fact that she is my daughter. I just love her. My friend Mary explained it pretty good, that you love your child so much, your heart is going to explode. I seriously feel my heart is going to burst out of my chest!! It is the most amazing feeling. I don't know how else to explain it. Yes, I am tired, Yes I worry constantly about every little noise, sneeze, or cough, I get up a hundred times a night to make sure she is still breathing, but it is all SO WORTH IT. I think of how long it took Dan and I to bring her here, and it makes me so grateful to hear that bloody Murder scream she uses instead of a cry, or how feedings, and changing diapers has become my new pastime. I LOVE IT ALL. I am aware it has only been two weeks, and I know there will be MANY tough times ahead with this little squirt, but for now I am enjoying being a mother who is obsessed with her daughter.

I made a little slideshow thing of June's adventure getting here. There are some of the same pictures from my last post but I thought I would share it anyways.

The Number 20

2011-10-31T14:35:00.000-07:00

Dan has a friend who is crazy smart with numbers and calculates things in a weird way.

The day June was born he wrote on Dan's wall congratulating him and wondered if we liked the number 20. Here is why:

June was born on the 20th day of the month
There are 20 letters in her full name
The most common constant in her name is "T" which is the 20th letter of the alphabet
The name of the weekday of her birth "Thursday" starts with the 20th letter of the alphabet
The first two digits of her birth year go together to make a "20"
When she is 20 months old, it will be the month of her name "June"

I know that some are obvious like her birth year but the rest is pretty cool. We have no connection with the number 20 it's all a coincidence.

It just makes our baby girl, June, all that much more awesome!

JUNE LORETTA LANCASTER

2011-10-23T18:09:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it.

I can't believe that she is here.

I can't believe how no one can prepare you.

I can't believe we made it through labor and delivery.

I can't believe how much I love this little girl.

She is here. I am going to BLOG all about it. I BRAG all about it. It is going to be a LONG blog post, so grab yourself a snack, get in a comfy chair, and get ready for our story.

Let me take you back to October 18th, 2011....

As many of you know I was complaining non-stop about her not coming, because I was purely expecting her to come early. My mom's flight was scheduled to come in on this day, so I called her and told her no baby. She changed it to the 20th. I went to my Dr. appointment and we decided it would be best to be induced on the 20th of October at 7:00 a.m. So that was the plan. I would go to the hospital the night before at 10:00p.m sleep at the hospital and be induced that morning.

Dan took half a day on Wednesday (the 19th) because I was very nervous so he kept me company and luckily the Ranger's were playing that night so my mind was pre-occupied with the game. (Well Kind of..) I couldn't eat or drink anything until after 4p.m. so Dan took me to a late lunch and we got ready for this baby.

9:50p.m arrives and I am ready to puke because of the excitement and nerves. I knew I wasn't having a baby until later the next day but still....

We got all checked in and they hooked me up to the monitors and we started our night. Not everything went according to plan.

The plan was to give me some medication to start softening my cervix. I can't remember the name.. Not petocine, but something else. It wasn't meant to put me into labor, just to help prepare to be induced on the next day. They knew it would be an uncomfortable night for me so they gave me Ambien to help me sleep through the night. If you have never taken Ambien before it does some crazy things to you.... That is an important part of the story.

So I took my drugs and hung out with Dan until the drugs started to work.

This picture was before anything started. I was just hooked up to the machines ready for a good nights sleep!

I DON'T REMEMBER MUCH....

Dan had to tell me what happened, so a lot of this story is second hand from Dan. Here is why:

The Ambien. It took control over my body. The problem was, was that I went into labor on my own, which was NOT supposed to happen. They took me off all medication and put me on my side to help slow down the contractions until they could get my doctor to the hospital.

(Remember Dan's Words)

I was getting prepared to get my epidural, but supposedly I was very uncooperative. They kept telling me to hold onto the pillow and bend my back, but I guess I was doing the opposite. I remember holding the pillow and wondering why I needed to hold the pillow, so I don't remember getting my epidural at all.

I am telling you it was the weirdest experience of my life. I remember certain parts, them telling me certain things, but Dan said for some reason I kept doing the opposite of what they said. My Doctor came in about 4:00a.m and I was ready to push... But again I wouldn't. Finally Dr. Hoffman (my OBGYN) had to get firm with me and I guess pretty much put me in my place. Dan said it was kinda funny, and I kept appologizing for not cooperating, but I just couldn't think straight in my mind how to do what they were saying. He also said that I was very polite and kept telling everyone thank you for the most random things. Again I do not remember any of this, but Dan said I acted alert and aware of everything!

I do remember the pressure, there was just so much pressure and I remember delivering her and feeling the instant relief. I remember talking to my Doctor about his new house and how moving was going... Guys I seriously do not know where my mind was.

In the end I was on labor for about 5 hours... I remember some labor pains, and I remember holding her in my arms for the first time, but than I was out cold. I don't remember even going into the postpartum room. It was a pretty wild night.

I am VERY SAD about not hearing her first cry, but Dan said she cried right away and that she got perfect scores on all her little tests.

SO INTRODUCING....

JUNE LORETTA LANCASTER

BORN: October 20, 2011

TIME: 4:51 am

WEIGHT: 7 lbs 14 oz

HEIGHT: 18"

So this is what I may have looked like. All smiles, feeling amazing and knowing exactly was was going on.

This is how it really was. I was out of it.

From what I can remember and what the nurses told me, Dan was Dan. AMAZING. He is already an amazing father. He was so supportive and calm.

"ARE YOU READY TO ROCK?" I love this photo. She doesn't cry she just has a very high pitched scream. I know its lovely!

I actually remember this. I was able to sleep off the Ambien and felt like a million bucks. It was an amazing feeling holding her in my arms. It is a feeling that no one can explain. The love I have for this girl the instant that I saw her was so over-powering. It is so true how you ask yourself, how could I have lived for so long with out this little girl in my life?

She has so much hair! She also has Dan's little ears. I am in love with her ears!

Proud Parents.

The look on Dan's face is nothing but pure love. This is one of my favorite pictures of Daddy and Daughter. Ya Dan hung out in the hospital bed a lot with me.

The next two days in the hospital were full of pictures, smilies and love of this little girl.

Here is why Dan is so amazing. The next morning it is just me, him and June in the room, and he pulls out these little diamond earrings. He got them for her when she is old enough for us to pierce her ears. They were so petite and just perfect. He then grabs another box and said that it only makes sense for June and her mother to having matching earrings. I got my very own pair of Diamond earrings to match my little Juniper. I can't express the amount of love I have for this man. No... not because he bought me and my daughter diamond earrings, but because the love that he has for his daughter and her mother. And yes... They're real. :)

GOING HOME: I was BEYOND ready to go home! Let me just say I am SO GRATEFUL for all the nurses who were watching out for June and me, but they were constantly coming in our room. I didn't get lack of sleep because of June, but because of the nurses. Dan and I counted and realized that a nurse was coming in almost every 8 minutes. It was a little much, but I guess necessary.

The first picture in her car seat and getting ready to come home.

Our first family photo.

Coming home to my mom at our place was amazing. The house was spotless she had dinner on and it smelled so good! It was warm and cozy, a perfect way to bring a newborn in the home.

Nana and June

INTRODUCING RANGER TO JUNE:

He was so excited to have us home after being gone for 3 days. He wanted to know what in the world we had in our hands. We tried to introduce them nice and slow.

Range was at a little hesitant at first, but slowly got more courage.

He sniffed for a while, tried to roll on top of her a couple times, but soon started ignoring her.

Now he is protective over her, he follows her everywhere and is always laying by her. It's pretty darn cute!!

This is how we spent the rest of the night.

These are things that I don't want to forget....

My nurse board. I don't think I would have been able to keep them all straight if it weren't for that board.

June's alligator animal from Nana

Dan having to sleep on the couch that turned into a bed. He slept horribly on it, so a lot of the time he spent laying with me.

Her little bed that she slept in. She spent most of the time asleep in my arms. I just couldn't put her down.

My bed that allowed me to go up and down without having to do a thing! It was pretty legit.

My water bottle. I'm not a huge fan of water and I had to drink 4 of those big things a day! It never happened!

We are a family. We are so in love with this little girl. We are tired. My mom has been amazing watching her and letting us get some sleep and plus making us all these meals and cleaning our house and everything else. I don't know how I will ever repay her.

She is now 5 days old. We are doing so well. She is a great little nurser and I feel really blessed that breast feeding is coming so easily for her and me. She is already gained back most of her birth weight. Ya she's a chunk! Everything is great.

I hope your still reading this, and that you enjoyed the story of how June Loretta Lancaster came into the world and has already changed our lives for the better.

Her Name and Her Nursery

2011-10-12T12:53:00.001-07:00

I first want to thank everyone for the phone calls, messages and comments about my last post. I am feeling much better and beyond excited to get her here and ROCK motherhood!

I am excited about this blog post. I don't know why I waited so long to share what we are going to name our little girl since we have had the name picked forever, and the majority of you already know, but I thought I would tie it in with the nursery blog since you will see her name in block letters above her crib. I know, name above the crib? How original... Well SHUT UP we like it! :)

We are naming her: JUNE LORETTA LANCASTER

She will go by June. Dan has had the name picked out since we found out she was a she. We went through a million names and no other name was good enough. It grew on me over time and now I can't picture a better name. I think its cute he named our first child. We get a lot of compliments on it and a lot of weird looks but we love it! Loretta is my grandma Mendenhall's middle name. We wanted to keep some type of family name going and it has a nice ring to it! I'm stoked to get it printed on that birth certificate and make it official.

THE NURSERY:

It is finally finished with one week to spare. Of course there are a few tweeks here and there that we want to finish up but for the most part the nursery is done.

We pretty much made or re-made everything in her room and we laugh at ourselves because she won't even be sleeping in there by the time we move so really we decorated for ourselves and it kept me busy during the summer.

I took a bunch of idea's from different nursery's that I saw online and made it our own little creation. The colors are random, yet organized and I feel like that portrays the type of people we are. :)

Let's take the tour.

When you first walk in this is the view you get. Our second bedroom is massive. It's bigger than our bedroom upstairs so we had a lot to play with.

The crib wall. See "June in Wood blocks" this is her crib which she won't be sleeping in for a while but it's still cute! It's a good thing we hung her name above the crib just in case we forget her name.. The quilt, fitted sheets (4), crib skirt, and changing pad cover are all homemade. Nothing in stores was what I wanted and I love that it's one of a kind. Back in Rexburg was where we made her bedding. LOTS of help from my mom and sister's!! We saved a TON of money doing the bedding ourselves. In the end we saved over $200.00 for the bedding. For us that's a lot of money. We decided against the bumper pads simply because we have read a lot about how they can suffocate a child and plus I think it gives it a cleaner look! I am very pleased how it turned out! Don't worry I know to take out all stuffed animals and pillows in the crib. There should be nothing but a baby. See I can do this.

This it what is on the sides of her crib. To the left we have her rocking chair, hanging stars (Which Dan and I made over conference weekend), her laundry hamper, and my favorite painting, The Four Dancer's by Dega. Dan actually got that painting for me when we were dating because he knew it was my favorite. I don't think he planned on having it hung in our little girls room 4 years later!

The right side is her diaper pail, an old rack we had that Dan painted blue, and a white shelf Dan painted orange. I can't wait to get real pictures in the frames instead of the model babies...

THE OTHER WALL

Since we only have two bedrooms right now we kept the desk in there and it actually filled some space that otherwise would have looked off kilter. We made it as baby as possible without going over the top. Yes the mobile in the corner is hanging sideways a bit, but its because of the ring not how it was hung. I did the hanging so Dan doesn't believe me but still I can't fix it. The alphabet was all Dan. He made that happen and I think it turned out perfect for her room.

The left side is the desk (Obviously) and a mobile that I made thanks to pinterest. I made it more my own than what they had me doing but it still turned out pretty cute and its back in the corner so no one can see it to closely. My sweet Ikea lamp is a dimmer which will be super nice for those dark nights. I'm pretty sure it's a curse to have Ikea so close to where we live.

The other side of the wall is actually a whine rack that I got for $20.00 when Dan and I got married. He has hated that thing from day one simply because we really had no use for it and its heavy to move. When you have moved as much as we have I'm sure it gets really annoying. :) Poor guy. Now he loves it. He painted red and its super convenient for holding our million and one swaddle blankets, and burp cloths along with her other little goodies.

THE BURP CLOTHS

So in Rexburg we made a bunch of burp cloths. They looked super easy and super fast to make so we did a ton of them. When I got home and started washing all of June's things I pulled the burp cloths out of the dryer. Some turned out great.....

and other's didn't quite make it. I'm still learning my sewing skills...

That is the nursery. I wish you could see it in person, its much better but pictures will have to do for now. I had so much fun putting this nursery together and I must say Dan did a lot of the work. Probably more than I did, I just had it pictured in my mind.

Well Unless I have another mid-night crisis I think this will be the last time I blog until she gets here which we are hoping is so soon!! I hope you like her name and her nursery. If you don't keep it to yourself! HA HA XOXO

i am scared

2011-10-09T01:50:00.000-07:00

I feel bad. Maybe you shouldn't read this. I am putting this down for my records since the end of the year is coming up and it's time to print the blog for the year, so I have to document feelings.

It is 3:54 am on a Saturday night, (or Sunday morning). I of course have been having a horrible time sleeping lately but what woman doesn't struggle with that being 38 weeks pregnant? But tonight has been the worst of it. I don't know if its because I am getting so close to having this baby that it's actually hitting me how real this is or the fact that my life is going to change so drastically. So as I sit here on my couch wiping tears away (I know I seem to be doing this a lot lately.. lets not even mention the whole bra situation!) I share some thoughts....

my anxiety level is through the roof. I have anxiety issues anyway but I feel pregnancy has made me top the charts.

bullet points seem to be working for me lately:

MY LIST OF SCARED-NESS:

Her movement, I feel her move every once in a while but she isn't as active, her heart beat is great but is something wrong?
Labor and delivery. How in the world do I handle this? what if something goes wrong... I can only keep thinking of the worst case scenario and that puts a horrible picture in my head.
Girls seem scary to raise. I can only imagine what raising a little me would be like. I can't believe my mom and dad did it. You say patience, but what if you don't have any?
I am so worried about my dog. Laugh all you want but Range has been our center of attention forever and my heart can't take the thought of him feeling lonely
My mom comes, but than she leaves and Dan goes back to work and life goes on as normal, but does life go on as normal?
How much will Dan and I's relationship change? Will it change at all? I don't want to be that couple that their sole focus is on their children. I still want Dan and Lesli time, just me and him. Will we get that? Dan is my best friend and I don't want to lose that closeness with him.
Please don't think I am one of those people but I do care what I look like and what if I can't get my body back? I don't want to be a stump, I want to still feel pretty....
How do I not lose myself in motherhood? How do I stay me, but still be the outstanding mother that my mom is?

Please oh please understand I am so beyond thrilled for this little girl to come. there is nothing more I have wanted than to be a mother. It was not an easy road for us to get pregnant and I am on my knees every day thanking my Heavenly Father for this amazing blessing that is coming into our lives.

I am just scared.

I'm not really sure if I am looking for answers, maybe I am. I'm not looking for a pity party either, maybe just some reassurance that other's felt this way too before having a baby. Millions of other women have done this so why can't I? I just needed to write these down and my blog is where I turn for random thoughts like these, now I think I will go grab a tissue since I have been using the end of my sleeve for the past half hour and go crawl in bed and cuddle with Dan. Thanks for reading.

Last Baby Shower and Last Pregnancy update!

2011-10-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

The "lasts" have come with this pregnancy. It is so crazy how fast time has gone by. The summer was a huge blur and I don't think time is going to slow down any for a while.

I had my last baby shower up here in Dallas. It was a great chillaxed shower which was perfect! The girls and I had lunch at California Pizza (one of my favorite pizza places) and then did the whole baby shower thing. Ya know the presents, the advice, and party favors. I'm so sad I didn't get a picture of the party favors. They were super cute! (Thanks again girls) It was fun to just sit and chat for a while. It is so nice having friends that have been through the whole baby thing before. I'm sure they get so sick of all my questions, but they always seem to answer with smilies on their faces, so I just keep asking.

The girls and their babies, or bellies. It is so funny this stage of life that we are in. I swear that every girl I know and friends my age either have kids or are pregnant!

THE LAST PREGNANCY UPDATE:

I am huge. I feel huge, I look huge, and I eat like I'm huge. I seriously have LOVED being pregnant. To me it has been pretty easy, but I am SO ready to not wear belly bands anymore (even though I have to say how grateful I am to have been able to stay in my regular pants, just unbuttoned, but thats what the belly band is for), to be able to paint my toe nails normally and plus I am beyond ready for this baby girl to get here!!!

38 WEEKS PREGNANT!

I am feeling great, spurts of tiredness every once in a while, but feeling good non-the less.
Sleeping and getting out of bed has become an olympic sport.
My abs are really sore
Can't wear my CTR ring anymore, but my wedding ring is still fitting which is good!
So far I have gotten 5 stretch marks, Ya I check everyday and I keep count.
Still obsessed with eating gummy bears.
I have this huge urge to eat cement, like my teeth ache so bad to just chew on a chunk of it.
Like I said before, I'm huge.

BABY GIRL LANCASTER

Not much to report on this little thing since we are near the end but here are the last few things she has been doing.

Our little girl is just growing like a weed. It's kind of weird because I am measuring small in my stomach, but she is measuring big. I guess she is all in my back.
Her movement has slowed down to where it feels like she is just dragging her body across my stomach.
She has dropped and her head is down, so that's a good sign!
She has enjoyed using my ribs as a toy.
I think she is ready to come out too!

Things We have been thinking about:

I am VERY SCARED for labor and delivery. My stomach just gets all tied in knots when thinking about it. (and its all I think about)
Dan is beyond excited for this little girl, I asked him to show a little more nervousness just to make me feel better.
We are getting the documents ready for her passport, crazy right! That a newborn has to have a passport, but we would like to take her home to Canada with us for Christmas. :)
My mom has bought her plane ticket and is ready for the call... Now if I could just make the call.
I'm not going overdue. I am an impatient person, and luckily my doctor is on board about not wanting me to go overdue also, so if she doesn't come on her in the next week, I'm MAKING her come out!! (Judge me all you want)
ALL WE WANT IS THIS LITTLE GIRL OUT!!!!

That's it! The last post of pregnancy and the last baby shower! Thanks to everyone who have listened to me ramble on and on about myself and letting me share things that you probably could care less about, but to me its fun!!

LOVES TO ALL!!

Baby shower & Baby Shower

2011-10-02T09:49:00.001-07:00

I truly am so grateful for amazing people that I have in my life and who care so much about our little family to be.

Its been a busy month getting ready for the baby's arrival, but it has definitely been a fun type of busy. This past week we were busy with baby showers. Dan and I first headed back down to Waco, where my beautiful friends threw me a shower even though I don't live there any more... That just shows what amazing friends they are. I am very happy that we are only two hours away from our Waco friends so that we can still see them every once in a while.

The theme was "Ready to Pop" it was super cute and very well done.

They had a popcorn bar full of the most delicious popcorn like Oreo, Rootbeer, Baked Potato, and so on and so on. It was great!

We played a game where you had to hang the baby clothes, hold the baby, and talk on the phone all at the same time. You were timed to see who could do it the fastest. I came in last.

Deena and I. We were in Young Womens together and it was the best calling I have ever had in the church. She is an amazing Lady and she will definitely be apart of my life forever! I just love her.

Krista is 20 weeks pregnant here (I think, maybe 21) I am 36 weeks pregnant. She is so itty bitty that she will probably stay small forever... Super cute!!

This picture is great. Its a timeline of baby evolution. ha ha.

Mary has a 3 month old, Liam, Lauren has a one month old, Quintin, Me who has a 36 week old fetus, and Krista who has a 20-21 week old fetus. It really is funny because when we all became friends none of us were pregnant... Then all of the sudden Mary got pregnant, Lauren got pregnant, then me and then Krista. All our children will only be 8 months apart. All three of these girls have or are having boys. Our little girl is the outcast but I guess she will have her pick of men!

The company that Dan works for threw us a shower. They are seriously so generous and I am very happy that Dan likes who he works with and that he enjoys what he does.

This shower was so fun because it was a shower for both Dan and I. I had never been to a shower where men were invited, and it was really funny because the men there really didn't know how to act, especially while opening gifts... One of guys thought we were literally talking about a baby's bootie when I opened some baby booties for their feet! It was so funny!!

I didn't get hardly any photos, in fact I only got one... But I had to share because I thought the cake was so super cute and they were delicious! We took some home with us and Dan and I pretty much at it all that night, well I should say I ate it all pretty much that night.

It was very sweet of them to do that. Really people are so kind and I don't know how I will ever thank them enough. This baby girl is so loved and spoiled! We have one more to go and then we should be wrapping it up with the baby showers. Its been so fun to get together with family and friends and celebrate this little girl's arrival... I really am grateful for the kindness and generosity, I definitely feel loved.

Hopefully with in the next few blog posts it will be about her arrival!! Hoping she comes soon, VERY SOON!!!

Celebrating 27 Years

2011-09-22T15:33:00.001-07:00

Dan turned 27 on Sunday. I love blogging about Dan because, yes, I get to brag about him!!

Since his birthday was on a Sunday this year we decided to make a weekend out of it. The company that Dan works for only works half day on Friday's so he gets to be home by noon! So we decided to enjoy the city a little bit before his real birthday celebration began. We went shopping and got some adorable things for our little girl! I can't help but buy her things. She is an expensive little girl and she hasn't even arrived yet!! HA HA There are just to many cute girly things out there... We are in trouble. Sorry off topic back to Daniel!

I wouldn't tell Dan where we were going for the night, I tried to keep it a surprise as much as I could. We came back home and got ready for the evening then headed back out to the city.

The big surprise was Medieval Times. HA HA ya where they joust in front of you, cheer for a knight, and eat EVERYTHING with your hands. Dan had never been to one and has always wanted to go so I thought that this was the perfect opportunity.

It turned out to be a lot of fun. Stupid, but worth the adventure. We got to take our picture in some sweet medieval times clothes and Dan got to hold a real sword. Ya it made him feel more like a man!

Until the show started we just walked around talking to people dressed up like knights and looking at all the weird things that people actually buy... Not really our taste but it was still fun to walk around.

Funny story. So they had 3 raffles where people got prizes. The first two were for small prizes the third was the grand prize. We were sitting at a table waiting to go into the show when they announced they were going to do the final drawing of the evening. Dan turned to me and said "Wouldn't it be so funny if they called your name" literally right as he said that they announced "The Winner is Lesli......(Pause for effect)... Lancaster."

THAT'S RIGHT! I WON! I looked at Dan and we both just started laughing so hard. They called my name again and they just said keep running and put your hands in the air.. They saw me and said "Come on RUN" I got up there and they took one look at me and my huge belly and smiled at me and said, "Oh never mind...." Ha ha I just looked at him and laughed saying " Running and jumping up and down probably isn't the best thing to do when your 8 months pregnant.

But who cares I WON!

I won four tickets to their grand opening night in November. We don't know if we are going to make it or not because we will have barley a one month old, but we will see.

I AM SO PROUD I WON!

Our knight was the black and white knight and guess who saved the day? OUR KNIGHT! totally kicked the trash of everyone else and saved the day!!!

All in all it was really fun and we laughed a lot.

Saturday we had our baby CPR class and Hospital tour so that pretty much took our whole day. I was craving Olive Garden so we had dinner there and went to a movie.

Sunday we celebrated Dan's actual birthday by going to church and having dinner. Later than night our friends the Mott's came over to have some cake and ice cream. We had a great time just talking and hanging out.

It was a good birthday I think, and Dan seemed to have a good time all weekend so I feel successful!!

BRA'S

2011-09-21T16:26:00.001-07:00

Do I share to much on my blog? Well I guess if you have a problem with it than don't read it! HA HA but yes this little blog post is about BRA'S.

Dan is out of town on business for a couple of days and so I thought it would be a good time to go looking for some nursing bra's. I went to Target because that's where I buy the majority of my bra's from and they have SUPER CUTE ones, so I was excited to see what they would have for nursing bra's. Well when I got to that part of the bra section I looked all over and all I saw were black and white bra's. Thats it! I own one white bra and I only wear it when going to the temple. Other than that I do not own a single solid color bra.

I sat on the sales floor holding a black bra and a white bra and I started getting teary eyed as I contemplated if I should get more of white or more of black. My heart sank as I thought that I can not already be losing who I am because I am becoming a mother. I really don't know where the tears were coming from... maybe it was because earlier I yelled at a Walmart associate and was feeling a little bad about it, or simply because this baby is coming in 4 weeks and I admit that I am scared. I mean I am buying bra's with a clip in the front so just a pop of a button and everyone gets a nice surprise! What is more motherly than that!

I picked myself up off the floor and kept looking around. I did find one blue polka dot bra that was a size to small but I bought it anyways just to say I can keep it exciting under there!

Please don't take this the wrong way. I am beyond excited to becoming a mother, it truly has been something I have wanted my whole life, I just get a little overwhelmed sometimes. I am sure there will be many more blog posts about overwhelming-ness but for right now my biggest problem is wearing a simple black or white bra!

Rexburg... PART FOUR & Final Post!

2011-09-18T12:28:00.000-07:00

MONDAY:

The last few days we were home were quiet but still fun. It was left up to Megan and I to finish our projects without Michelle's help but we were bound and determined to finish. We did awesome... just a few fat quarter's wasted and some unstitching but for the most part we did great.

I will take some pics of the nursery once I get a chance!

We went with my mom to Porter's to pick out our fabric for our special "Grandma Blankets" that she makes for all the grandkids. They are going to be super cute but wont get it until my mom comes when the baby is born. Megs and I had Fongs for lunch. The last time for a while. I wish some of my readers could understand how Fongs is so good but yet so horribly cheap and disgusting. You just can't get enough of it and it makes you drink a lot of water. ha ha.

So Monday was a pretty low key day. Just sewing and finishing our stuff before we had to pack it all home.

TUESDAY:

It was our last full day in Rexburg. It was good tying up loose ends of everything and getting ready to go. Megs and I didn't realize how much stuff we had until we started packing. We had all the luggage we could have to fly with and still had a bunch of stuff so we ended up having to ship some stuff home. We were shoving everything we could into boxes and sending them home. IT was quite the adventure in the post office.

My mom came home from work and we decided that it would be fun to do maternity pictures. Where we live is the most beautiful place. We literally walked out my parents backyard and headed to the fields right behind their house.

It was so fun taking pictures with my mom and sister. Even though it was hard to get on the ground and climb over pipes it was still a good laugh and memories we won't forget.

I posted a few of my favorites here on the blog but if for some reason you want to see more of the fat version of Lesli you can click Here to see all the pictures. They are on my facebook page.

This is how it started. I don't think people realize how difficult it truly is to have a massive belly in front of you. I admit that I was one of those people who would be like stop complaining its not that hard, but let me tell you something.... being pregnant especially that big is hard, and difficult. I guess you can only understand when you go through it for yourself. Gosh men have it so easy!! :)

My beautiful mother with her pregnant daughters. We had so much fun with her and she was a great assistant to Megan. ha ha

Just a warning, you will be seeing a lot more of those ballet slippers when we do her new born pictures. They are just my favorite!! THANKS MEG!

Later that night we met up with my Dad and went and ate at the Pineapple Grill and had some delicious Sushi!! Don't worry it was cooked! I am so excited to eat real sushi when this little girl comes! We came home and played hand and foot and called it a night. It was a great night to end the vacation on!!!

WEDNESDAY:

Well the end has come. We woke up and headed to Utah. Again my amazing mother drove us down. We were able to meet up with my sister Michelle and her two little girls to Gardner's village and to have some lunch. Then it was time to head to the airport.

It was so sad leaving. It was time to go home but man it was hard to say goodbye to my sisters and my mom. I am so happy that I get to see my mom in just a few short weeks when the baby comes, but that didn't make me shed any less tears. We said our goodbyes and headed home.

Coming home felt well to be honest weird. We have been looking forward to this trip to Rexburg literally for months! And to have it over was just strange. I was so excited to see Dan and my little Ranger but it was hard too. I cried a lot that night. I don't know if its because I was just because of the pregnancy stuff or what, but I felt bad. I really was so excited to see Dan!

Don't worry life is back to normal now and I am glad to be back in Texas. Its even cooling down here. Instead of the heat being the 100's its now in the low 90's and 80's. It feels so nice! I am very proud of myself for surviving the summer months!

Thats it folks. Thats all I have from the Rexburg trip. So much happened that I missed a lot but I just can't but it all into words.

A HUGE thank you to my amazing family who simply make my life that much better. I am so happy that we live far away but still remain close!

Also to Daniel for letting me leave for that long. I was very happy to have him call me and to hear how much he missed me and was ready for me to come home. It feels good to be appreciated!!

On to the next Adventure....

Rexburg.... Part THREE

2011-09-15T10:46:00.001-07:00

Wednesday:

So if you read the old post there were no pictures, but my sister Megan reminded me oh so nicely that there are a ton of pictures so here we go!

Wednesday was a blast... Us girls spent the day of course at Porter's and sewing to our little hearts desires. Well it was more of a "HAVE TO" get it done than a desire, but we pushed through.

Later that evening, My parents, us girls, and Mike and Shay all loaded in the car and headed to West Yellowstone for a trip to the PlayMill. Kylie my cousin, watched the kids for us, which was super sweet of her.

The PlayMill is a place that we have been going to ever since I can remember. Its a small little theater and they put on fun musicals. This year we say the musical "High School Musical". It was great! A big thanks to my mom for getting us all tickets and a big thanks to my dad for driving fast so we wouldn't be late. It was a close call! All of us had a lot of fun, and after we went and ate at a pizza joint called Gushers. SO GOOD!

THURSDAY:

It was a busy day getting everything ready for the shower. We sewed a little more, did a quick trip to Porter's and then headed home to get ready for the shower.

FAMILY SHOWER,

My dear sweet mother and sisters threw Megan and I a baby shower for our two little girls. It was such a fun, unique experience to be able to share with my older sister the joys and pains of pregnancy! I am so excited for her little one to come in January. So here are some snippets of our Joint Baby-Shower!

Starting to set up... Me, Michelle, and Megan.

Me, Dad, and Megs. My dad has a pink balloon in his shirt. first glance though doesn't it look like his actual stomach? He is such a funny man and I am so happy that he's my dad!

My mom has some pretty outstanding people in her life, who we have grown up with to know and love. They helped out tons with this shower to make it spectacular for our little girls. So much food and DELICIOUS cupcakes, who were created by Brinda Howard! She is so flippin talented its not even funny the things she comes up with.

Talking with friends and opening gifts. Our little girls got spoiled rotten. Thank you to everyone! You were all so generous, and thank you to all our family and friends that came over to support us. It was so great to see everyone!!

The Prego's! It has been so much fun being pregnant together. We are about 10 weeks apart but still it has been so much fun laughing over pregnancy things and being able to talk to each other about our fears! I hope one of my sister's is pregnant every time I am. IT'S GREAT!

My Beautiful sisters! I don't know what I would do without them in my life! They truly are all amazing in everything that they do! A HUGE thanks to them for planning this shower for us. It couldn't have worked out better!

FRIDAY:

It was a great day! All of us girls and my mom got to sneak away for the night and have a nice dinner, do some sweet shopping, and go to a movie. "The Help". I had read the book and cried pretty much the whole way through it. I loved the movie. Its not everyday I get to spend the evening like this with all my sisters and mom! It was such a fun night!!!

SATURDAY:

We had a lot of photos!! (My mistake Megan..) We spent the day at the Mendenhall traditional spot... WARM RIVER. We floated the river a few times and yes even being 32 weeks pregnant at the time I floated down too! Then we had a great BBQ and just hung out in the sun. It was so nice to be in temperatures that were less than 100 degrees. I loved putting on sweaters and jeans! It was so much fun.

My parents did so much to make sure that we had a great time in everything that we did!!

Ah... The white trash sister!

I think that I'm sleeping...

SUNDAY:

Sunday was a little bitter sweet. Everyone was heading home except for Meg and I. Michelle had been there the whole week with us and Brooke came up on Thursday (On a shuttle for six hours) so it was so sad to see them go! It meant that our vacation was coming to an end. My mom made a delicious dinner, and my dad had to head to church meetings, so we said goodbye and it went from 5 to 2. The house was so quite without grandkids screaming and playing. It was really sad!!!

Well that wraps up the week. I have one more blog post to do to finish up our Rexburg trip but I think this is enough blogging for now!!!

Thanks for reading!

Rexburg... PART TWO

2011-09-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

This Post will cover just Monday & Tuesday.

MONDAY:

We started our day with a jog, well I walked and pushed a stroller, and Meg and Michelle ran. When we got home we got ready for the day and started our MANY sewing projects!

My Beautiful sister Megan and my niece Sage!

We headed to Porter's for the second time and also had Fongs for lunch for a second time, then it was off to work!

Us girls had lots to sew before our two weeks were up. Both Megan and I planned on making our bedding and other things for our little girls room, so we got to work. We set up a little workshop downstairs, and my dad got us poster boards and easel so that we could keep track of our projects.

I do have to share that if it weren't for Michelle and my mom, Megan and I would have ended up with really horrible looking projects!!! No JOKE they saved us!

Our sewing table....

Our Cutting Table. We watched old "Oprah" episodes and "Keeping up the Kardashians" pretty much all week long. Our table looks like nothing compared to what it looked like at the end of the week.

We seriously sewed and sewed and sewed all day long! A few broken needles and struggles with bobbins we were ready to call it a night. Sewing and frustration are not a good combination!

TUESDAY:

We sewed a little Tuesday morning, but we than headed to Idaho falls to the party store to help my mom with baby shower decorations and extra things. We had a great time shopping, and eating lunch.

The little girls were troopers! So we spent the evening playing with them and we fed the ducks at the nature park. We had a ton of photos at the nature park, but I don't know where they are. I am sure my sister Megan will post them on her blog so if you are interested check them out there!

It was a very enjoyable relaxing evening, playing on the swing set and eating raspberries right out of my parents garden! NOTHING BETTER!

Another Beautiful sister of mine and her little girl Reese! Not to brag but I have a beautiful family!!

when Michelle got the girls to bed we figured we better get back to sewing and finish our quilts. My mom helped us withe seems and making sure everything measured perfectly. I was actually very impressed with our sewing skills. Seriously if it weren't for Mich and my mom they would not have turned out so nicely.

These are the colors of our nursery's. Megan's is the pink/gray one and mine is the Yellow/green one. I will show all the great things we did once I get the nursery all put together!

Well Part two had come and gone. I have a few more posts to put on here, so keep on checking!

LOVES TO YOU ALL!!

REXBURG PART ONE!

2011-09-09T13:59:00.000-07:00

There was so much that happened while in Rexburg that I decided it would be better to break it up into parts. So there will be posts throughout the weekend and week. I just can't blog it all at once! IT'S TO MUCH!!!!!

HERE WE GO!

We were in Rexburg for 2 FULL WEEKS!

This first blog post will cover Wednesday-Sunday

WEDNESDAY:

Meg and I flew into Salt Lake City at 11:50p.m. Megan chose the flight times... We still don't know why it was so late at night but its all good!

Brooke and Michelle were there to greet us with big smilies! We were so excited to all see each other and knowing that we get to hang out for so long helped add to that excitement. We literally laughed the whole way to Michelle's house about who knows what. 25 cent tolls, and random comments that made no sense. It was great! We got settled in and didn't fall asleep until about 2:00a.m.

THURSDAY:

Thursday was a very eventful day! Michelle went to work for the morning before we headed to Rexburg, so me and Meg were in charge of taking care of Sage and Reese. Well Megan gets this really bad stress knot in her shoulder and ends up kinking her neck to the point where she can't move. We called Michelle like 8 times a work looking for heating pads, icyhot, anything to help Meg with the pain. We couldn't find anything so I am running around the house keeping track of two kids and trying to not laugh at Megan hunched over in a chair. It was so much, I was laughing so hard tears were running down my face. I eventually made my own heating pad. I got one of Cam's baseball socks and filled it with rice and heated it up! Meg put it on her shoulder and it looked like a little squirrel sitting on her shoulder! AGAIN HILARIOUS !

We had lunch with Mich and Brooke and then Mich, Me, and Meg headed up to Idaho. But don't forget about Megan's kinked neck.....

(Megan, Please don't kill me for putting this picture on my blog)

She had to wear this towel around her neck the whole day!

We did feel bad because once we got home, it got worse we almost went to the emergency room! We still laughed though... It was really funny!

Being home was amazing! My mom and dad were so excited to see us! We talked and talked and talked and finally got to bed realizing we have 2 weeks to catch up on everything!

FRIDAY:

The day was spent running errands and getting things ready for the triathlon the next day. We were able to stop by my mom's office and do ultrasound pictures on Megan and Me! It was super fun! I admit I got a little emotional, it was just so fun to have my mom being able to do an ultrasound on me. I loved it!

We went to Porter's and had Fong's for lunch!

My parents went to Burley for the night to celebrate my Dad's 40 year high school Reunion. Can you believe that... 40 YEARS!!! Holy smokes! ha ha

Brooke and her family came up to Rexburg and we started getting ready for the triathlon by practicing transitions! I missed not being a part of it! I am really planning on doing it next summer! I have missed working out to the fullest and training for something. I am ready to get to doing that again.

So Michelle, Cam, Mikey, and Brooke all did the triathlon this year. Meg and I were the pregnant people in charge of little kids and taking pictures. Thank goodness Jeff and Shay were there to help!

SATURDAY:

The triathlon team woke up at 5:00a.m and I joined them for some reason, but it was good to make sure they all got off ok. Meg and I fell back asleep so we didn't make it to the swimming but we were there for everything else. Running around trying to find everyone, throwing kids in the car and trying to dodge runners and bikers in the car. All I can say is Megan is definitely a New York driver. She did awesome though!

Everyone did amazing! Mikey did the Full and the rest did the sprint. It was great to watch them all cross the finish line! I love my family and I am so proud of them!

The rest of the day was spent taking naps, eating Millhollow Sandwhiches, and sno-shacks! The Rexburg goodness! My Parents got home super late that night.

SUNDAY:

My dad headed off to church meetings, and we went to church at my parents home ward. Its crazy how time changes wards.. I hardly recognized anyone there. It was good to see those who I did recognize though!

We then all came home and got ready for a backyard bbq! I love my parents backyard. Its so beautiful and my mom and dad work so hard on the landscaping to make it look the way it does. You definitely can't find a place like where they live anymore!

Brooke and our newest addition to the Mendenhall Family... Tray.

Enjoying the kids and the weather. I may be bias but Rexburg has the most perfect weather in the summer.

Me and Mich. I just love how gigantic I look in every picture. The joys of being pregnant!

The Mendenhall grand-kids! 2 more girls to add that!!

After we ate Brooke and the fam packed up and had to head back to Utah. School started for them the next day. We wish they could have stayed!! Cam also took off leaving Me, Meg, Mich, The girls, and my parents. Mich stayed the whole week with us!!

Well thats it for the weekend! There is MUCH MORE TO COME.... so stay tuned!

Enjoy for now!

Dan Graduates!

2011-09-02T09:21:00.001-07:00

I am back from Idaho and have so much to blog about, but before I get into that I have to blog about a big event that happened right before I left for two weeks. DAN GRADUATED!!!!

No more school!! We are both very happy about that!

Dan actually finished school back in May when we moved up to Dallas for his internship with Pioneer. (A natural gas company) It was a little scary knowing that it was just an internship and not an actual job, but it could lead to an actual job so we packed up and headed to Dallas for 3 months.

Dan finished his internship last week and they offered him a full time position as a Geologist in the company. We are so happy and feel so blessed. Dan was pretty stoked too! Things are falling into place so well and we are so grateful for our prayers being answered!

So we drove to Waco to celebrate Dan graduating. Our families weren't able to make it since they will be coming down in such a short time for the baby, but we are so lucky to have our friends who are pretty much like family that helped me celebrate Dan graduating.

Pictures of the auditorium, Some random guy speaking, and Dan on the BIG SCREEN!

The after pictures with me and Stephen. Stephen was a classmate who obviously graduated with Dan. ha ha

Dan being all graduationesqe! Don't mind his short robe, ha ha Master students and bachelor students get different robes and they gave him a Bachelor robe, so when we got to graduation he had to get a new robe and they only had smalls! ha ha he looks good still though, its just cute!

Afterword our friends gathered together at George's to celebrate with us!

Lauren, Robert, Lindsay, Brett, Jeff, Krista, Dan and myself. (I'm taking the picture)

We then headed to Robert and Lauren's house for some cake and ice-cream. They were so nice and got Dan his very own graduation cake! It was super good!!

It was so much fun watching Dan graduate and finish something that he has worked so hard for. His Thesis is finished and published. It's amazing to look at even though I have no clue at what its talking about! ha ha

I love you Daniel Scott Lancaster and I am so proud of you!!

10 Weeks & Counting!

2011-08-11T18:29:00.000-07:00

Thats it!! Thats all we have left is 10 weeks and it still feels like forever.

Here is a pregnancy update.....

ME:

I am officially 30 weeks and some.. I am happy to be in the third trimester and on the down slope!
My pregnancy has gone by pretty fast and has been pretty easy. I have felt great and just recently have felt tired and wanting to take a nap in the middle of the day.
Sleeping has been getting more difficult. I toss and turn and get up about 2 or 3 times a night to either eat because I'm always hungry or to go to the bathroom.
I have proudly gained 19 pounds up to this point and I'm sure it wont stop there.
I now feel fat and feel like nothing fits.
My cravings have been pretty minimal. I eat LOTS of cereal, gummy bears, and toast with honey.
Its getting difficult to do the regular things I used to do. Like shaving my legs or simply just bending over. My legs are getting farther and farther apart every time I bend down.
I'm getting really tired of peeing in a cup, but I admit I am getting really good at my aim!
I am super jealous of everyone having their babies right now. August has already been a popular month to pop out the little things and it makes me so mad I have to wait another 2 months!
I truly have been so blessed with my pregnancy and feel so grateful for this amazing little miracle thats coming in October.

30 WEEKS PREGNANT!

BABY GIRL LANCASTER

I'm sorry no recent update pictures for her... but I will update you on her progress.

First of all I am worried that she isn't a girl. Dan laughs at me but its a true concern and I'm always so scared they are going to be like oh there is a little something there....
According to "What to expect when your expecting" and my 100 apps I have on my phone about pregnancy, she is the size of a butternut squash. About 17 inches and weighing at 3 lbs.
Thats what the average is. According to my doctor my stomach is measuring a bit small so we are keeping watch on her to make sure that she is continuing to grow. Dr. Hoffman said to try to not worry to much about it because I am taller than average and have a long torso so that could have something to do with it. It doesn't make me worry any less though!
She is super strong and kicks, kicks, kicks! Dan saw my stomach move for the first time this week and the look on his face was priceless. I love watching my stomach go up and down from all her action.
We do have a name picked out, as long as she stays a girl... See I am very concerned with that.
She is already the highlight of our lives. Its so amazing how much we can love this little girl without even meeting her yet. WE CANNOT WAIT!!!

THINGS WE'VE BEEN THINKING ABOUT...

We really haven't gotten all that prepared and the time is ticking away. We have a crib...
We debated whether to do a birthing class, but decided against it. Our hospital provides the service, but I don't know, I feel weird pretending to push a baby out of my hotcha. I don't think Dan and I would take it very seriously, we don't take much very seriously... so we are just doing the CPR safety class.
Ranger is still a big concern. We have talked to our vet and she just said the complete opposite of what articles have said about introducing dogs to new babies.... He just is my baby and I want the transition for him to be smooth.
We are a little worried about how to work out the situation with when my mom should come... any suggestions? Do you plan on the due date to buy plane tickets? What happens if she comes early? I am really going to need my mom there.

Everything has been going great! We are Beyond excited to get this little girl here. I am pleased with how everything has been going and I am so grateful for my mom and sisters who are willing to answer any questions!

Dan is rocking it at being a future dad, I simply just love the man!

Lancaster Family Reunion

2011-07-29T20:16:00.000-07:00

A Lancaster Family Reunion finally took place in British Columbia!! Its been 15 years since the last reunion so I would say its about time.

It was such a quick trip that it was over in a blink of an eye. It was such a mad blur of fun and craziness that when we landed in Dallas Sunday night Dan and I both looked over at each other and said were we really just in Canada... It was worth it even if it was for just a few days!

Dan and I left Thursday night after Dan was off work and flew over to British Columbia. The flight was about 4 hours which wasn't to bad but being six months pregnant the legs got a little tired after a while.

Once we landed we went through customs, got our rental car and drove the hour to Salmon Arm. We pulled into the hotel about 1:30 am. 3:30 our body time so we were super tired..

Friday we woke up and had breakfast with Dan's family. I LOVE hotel breakfasts its just a never ending food supply.

The family reunion didn't really start until later that night so the immediate Lancaster family were able to hangout during the day and get some quality family time. It was super nice since the last time we saw them was a year and a half ago. WAY TO LONG!!

We went and played some miniature golf and went grocery shopping for some more food!

My Face is getting larger and larger. I swear everyday my cheeks just get that much more round. Maybe I should stop eating so much....

This is little Isis. She got a HOLE IN ONE and for being a 3 year old thats awesome, but she was super sad because her ball went in on the first try. She wanted to keep hitting her ball. It was hard not to laugh but she was so sad about it!

All of us just doing our thing.

Later in the afternoon we went up to Dan's Aunt Michelle's house. Her home is beautiful with the most amazing view of the lake and the mountains. We went swimming in their pool and ate pretty much all the raspberries growing in their garden. Luckily we would just send the little kids to get them for us.

Gracie picking some raspberries

Swimming in the pool

Us watching. Dan is holding the newest addition to the Lancaster Family.

Brianna Lynn Lancaster.

Later that night the family reunion kicked off with great food and great conversation. I love Dan's extended family. I am actually good friends with some of them since they roomed with Dan at BYU-Idaho. So it was so good to see them and catch up on life. For some reason I don't have many photos of that night except for me. ha ha ya I'm that selfish....

I was super pumped because we all got name tags and even baby Lancaster got one. It was awesome! (Like I said my face is getting huge!)

Saturday we got up, had some awesome hotel breakfast and headed to the lake. Our lakes here in Texas are like bath water and I guess I forgot how cold lakes are in the north coming straight from glacier mountains. IT WAS FREEZING!!!

Gracie and Isis playing in the water

We were able to go out on Canoes and enjoy the view for a while. I'm not sure why we had life jackets on in a lake but the family was persistent on me wearing one, I guess the massiveness of my body might cause me to sink, so Dan was a good sport and put one on too! I just love that man.

I sucked. I kept spinning in circles and crashing into Dan and his cousins. It took forever for me to just get back to the shore. I was really worn out by the time we got back, but it was totally worth it.

That night we all headed over to the church for some pizza and games. They played the newlywed game with all the aunts and uncles. After 35 years + they knew each other pretty well but it was still super funny to watch some of their responses! I can't wait to grow old with Dan.

Sunday was our last day there. We woke up and went to Dan's Aunt's ward for church and then took some family shots. Here is one of all the cousins. Everyone is super friendly and its amazing that after not seeing each other for so long how the conversation just seems to pick up where it was left off!

Dan and I drove the hour back to the airport and flew home. For some reason our seats got bumped to the VERY BACK OF THE PLANE!! the worst place to be. We got to hear flushing toilets for 4 hours straight and smell some things that seemed to not have sat right with some pretty heavy dudes. Customs was awesome this go around. Dan finally got his permanent green card so going back and forth through the boarder is so much easier now! Next step citizenship!!

We got home about 1:00am and super tired but the next day was Monday so we were up at 6:00am ready to start another busy week.

I was so happy to go pick Range up from the kennel and get life back to normal!!

I hope you enjoyed this adventure through the Lancaster family reunion!

Stroller Experts Please

2011-07-26T13:28:00.001-07:00

We need some advice about strollers.....

Here is where we are confused.

We are of course wanting the best for our little bean sprout but we also don't want to get her things that may not be necessary, so please help!!

The first stroller that we have been looking at is the basic massive stroller with the connected car seat. Four wheels with the whole package. Our fear is that it might be to big and we really don't know how much we would use it. People have said that they rarely use there large strollers because it takes forever to get in and out of cars and its big ha ha. So thats our 1st option

We were thinking about doing a more runner type stroller with the connected car seat. 3 wheels, but how well does it work inside... This is sort of like the first option but if we are getting a large stroller we might at well get the running stroller since I see me using that a lot more. But is it going to be a pain to have a running stroller all of the time... Not so sure

Some people have told us to not waste our money on such a massive stroller and just get the car seat, and a small push around stroller. My only concern is, is that a small push stroller might not be comfortable enough for a baby. So it might be worth getting the bigger strollers.

Dan and I have been doing so good with other baby decisions but this one seems to be on hold so I am asking for your opinion, advice, and experience. We just want what's best for the baby and for us as well!!!

THANKS FOR YOUR THOUGHTS!!!

5th 4th of July

2011-07-06T12:19:00.001-07:00

This is our 5th Fourth of July together! A few things have changed here and there but we still find eachother entertaining so we keep sticking around.

Just so you know I was having a bit of fun with black and white photos.

Range and me... We were waiting for Dan to get off work on Friday. I know I don't have to say how much I love this little guy.

Our 4th was spent in the grand city of Dallas. I'm loving it here more and more and there is just so much shopping! Let's hope Pioneer decides to keep Dan around so he can afford my spending habits. I believe I am turning into a shopaholic and I just learned they are opening an H&M!! MY FAVORITE STORE!

We went to the Science exhibit and just walked around the fair grounds. I of course had to take a belly picture. It's her first 4th of July after all. :)

Dan and I waiting for the fireworks. I'm really proud for Dan wearing so much Red, White, and Blue. He is becoming more and more American everyday. In Fact he just received his permanent green card, and can apply for citizenship in February.

He makes it a point to tell me every now and then that I will be the only one in our Family that won't have duel citizenship.

The Dallas Fire works. We were worried we wouldn't get fireworks this year because Texas is on a MAJOR FIRE BAN.. but low and behold the sky was lit up everywhere. NOTHING STOPS TEXANS!!

The next night we had tickets to "Taking Back Sunday" at the House of Blues... But for some reason we decided to not go and put the crib together. Dan says its the end of an era even though it was HIS IDEA!!

I helped out as much as I could but I think Dan felt all Father like and put it all together. He gave me the job to put the drawers together. He told me like 5 times just read the instructions. I don't have patience to read instructions. When we went to put the drawers in they wouldn't fit. I screwed the wrong sides together. Dan just laughed and rebuilt the drawers.

So really he built the whole thing and I watched.

He kinda looks stoned or something in this picture... Not sure...

The Finished Product! I am so excited to get going on this Nursery. I'm doing most of the room by scratch. There is no bedding that really suits what I want to do so I'm making my own when I go home in August!! The rest of the room will also be created by yours truly.

It could turn out really ugly.....

I just want her here now! We are about 90% on a name. Dan is 100% but I am still working on the last 10.

They Call it Puppy Love

2011-06-20T20:02:00.000-07:00

Ranger.

He loves toys that are larger than he is and his little blue ball
His favorite treats are milk bones and leftovers of any kind
One ear hangs lower than the other
I worry how he will act with a baby around
He loves chasing big dogs but is scared of dogs smaller than him
I talk to him, and ask him questions. He doesn't respond
Dan and I fight for his affection, He loves Dan more
He's overweight at 6 pounds. The Vet called him plump for his breed, we point and laugh at him
I leave for 5 seconds, but he always acts like I have been gone for years
He is my best friend

Ya I re-did it

2011-06-09T12:55:00.000-07:00

I have decided that my life needs more craftiness in it. That I want to keep the creative juices flowing all the time. Dan asks me if I am going to be one of those moms that goes way over the top and bedazzles her daughters brown paper bag lunches. To be honest I can't give him an answer because I just don't know yet. ha ha

Well I decided to get started on my craftiness and refinish a desk we found for super cheap at a garage sale! It was actually kind of hard taking off all the varnish and getting it to bare wood and all that crap. I was so tired after like 5 minutes, ha ha I suck. I finished it though and we finally got it moved upstairs to the main level.

I'm pretty proud.

I had to drill new holes for the handles because the other holes didn't fit any hardware and breaking Dan's drill bit in the process!!

I had to strip the varnish and then I had to strip the varnish remover

Then paint.

It turned out pretty good!!

This is just the beginning! I want to do the whole nursery. I haven't found any particular theme/design I liked for her room, so I am doing my own thing. I'm pretty excited and it will keep me busy during the summer! I will keep you updated once that project begins, but until then stay creative my friends.

Half Way There

2011-06-03T08:25:00.001-07:00

A Pregnancy Update!

I haven't done an update about being pregnant lately on my blog and I felt like this little thing was feeling left out.

So here we go....

ME:

I am a little over 20 weeks now, I was very excited to get to the half way mark. I don't know why, but it just feels good to be in the 20's and out of the teens.

My pregnancy has actually been pretty good! I feel great, a little low on energy at times and I am experiencing heartburn for the very first time.

I have my appetite back, and it came back full swing. I eat and then no joke, 20 minutes later I'm hungry again. I can eat most foods, I just have to be in the mood for it.

It was just this past week that my belly really started coming out. The pictures make me look a lot bigger than I am. I do admit that I am struggling with remembering that I am pregnant and not just fat. My love handles are growing and I can't do a darn thing about them. I LOVE MY BELLY THOUGH!!

I am trying to eat as healthy has I can, but the belly knows what it wants. I am trying to exercise and do more lifting with my arms. I just don't want to be a balloon. I already feel my face getting fat and it worries me of what's to come.

Dan has been amazing! He is going to be the most adorable father. He is already so protective of this little thing. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about how an incredible father he is going to be. I have been trying to not be one of those wives that makes her husband get everything for her. He is very supportive and hates missing any appointments, but thats life. Ha Ha

Baby Lancaster:

Little baby Lancaster is a girl! If you didn't already know. I can't believe how much I love her already.

She is a little thing. She is measuring at about 19 weeks, my doctor said that it's completely normal but he is still planning on my original due date, October 19th.

We don't have a name picked out. Well Dan has a name picked out and he is pretty stuck on it, and any other name I give him isn't good enough, but we will see. Luckily we have a while!

She moves so much. I could watch her all day move around in my belly. She is very uncooperative. I am pretty lucky because so far every Dr.'s appointment I have been able to see her pretty much because I make them. Ha ha I have an amazing doctor who doesn't mind!

I started feeling her move this week. She moves mostly at night when I'm laying down. Every once in a while I can feel her during the day. At first I didn't know if it was her, but with chats with my sister and the doctor I learned that it wasn't just Gas bubbles.

The leg and foot shot is my favorite! I am proud of her for letting us be able to get a shot between the legs. I am just going to have to teach her to keep her legs closed!! :)

A few things we have been thinking about:

She is half Canadian half American. She will automatically get duel citizenship and be allowed to live where ever she chooses between the two countries. Thats cool!

Dan has red heads in his family, and he has a hint of red in his beard. In fact people tell him he has red hair all the time. We just laugh and don't really agree but I guess we just don't see it. So will she have red hair?

I haven't given up on Soda. I have cut down on the caffeine ALOT but I do knock down a few Dr. Peppers every now and again. I hope she doesn't come out on a sugar high.

These are just things we think about. Ha ha

Well there you have it. I am so excited to be a mom, and scared at the same time. I held one of my friends 2 month old baby the other day, and I have held lots of babies, but for some reason holding him gave me a very scared feeling in my stomach, knowing that I am going to be responsible for this little girl. I hope I do ok!

Through the Deep Blue Sea

2011-05-18T19:44:00.000-07:00

Dan and I celebrated the freedom of no longer being students!! Dan has officially finished with his thesis and we wanted to do something out of the ordinary, and with a baby on the way we thought we better make it extra ordinary because who knows the next time we will get this chance with work and kids.

We decided to go on a cruise! Neither of us have ever been so we thought it was the perfect get away for us. We sailed to the Caribbean. Jamaica, Cayman Islands, and Mexico. We had so much fun and it was a well needed vacation before Dan starts his new job. We had to kennel Range for 10 days and it about killed me. I of course cried when we dropped him off and I worried about him the whole time.

Well here is a basic outline of our trip. REMEMBER! that when looking at the pictures I am PREGNANT not just FAT!! :)

Sunday we checked in and got acquainted with our new home for a week. We explored and settled in. The ship we were on was called the Carnival Conquest. Its basically a city floating on water. Its crazy!

The toilet had this powerful suction and it was super scary the first time using it. Really it was super suction!

Monday and Tuesday we were out on the sea. We swam,ate and ate and ate, and went on the water slides, and yes we even played some slots. Don't judge me and all I will say is that we came out on top! 1 cent machines!!

They had so much entertainment on the ship with live performance shows, music, Karaoke, and shopping! I had to remind myself that I was on a ship in the middle of the ocean.

Jamaica was the first Island stop out of the three. We didn't plan any excursions for this Island because we wanted to shop, and enjoy the beaches the first day.

This was my first time trying a real coconut. Let me say the juice inside was alright, but the actual coconut inside was super slimy and nasty. I hope I never get stranded on an Island where I have to live off of coconut, but it was worth trying for the experience.

The beach was beautiful. We rented some snorkel gear and went and saw the coral below us. Its so pretty and kinda freaky that we were swimming with all these live things crawling and swimming around.

Eating at the beach, trying some authentic Jamaica food.

Jamaica was a little more scary than I thought. It's a very poor country and the people there are all over you trying to get you to purchase something. They would lure you into their shops and than hurry and close the door behind you. Dan was very cute and protective!

Cayman Islands was my favorite stop! We had an excursion planned for this go around and it was a full packed day!

It started with a stop to the turtle farm. We were able to see HUGE sea turtles and hold the baby ones. They were so much fun to play with!

Second we went to a town called Hell. Literally this town on a map is called Hell. Its really creepy. The reason for this is because of the rock that are formed behind the town. Dan was loving it because of all the geological stuff he got to look at. I just felt guilty for even being there. ha ha

The third and last stop was swimming with the sting rays. I thought I could handle it but getting in the water with these giant things with sharp stingers on their tales really freaked me out. They take you out in the middle of the ocean to a sand bar and there are just tons of sting rays. I had a panic attack and couldn't breath so I had to take a moment and cling for dear life on the boat, but gently Dan held me and some other really nice people helped calm me down so I slowly got used to the idea. I even got the courage to feed them. They just suck squid right out of your hand.

It was an amazing experience!!

The Tulum Mayan Ruins was pretty cool! Its amazing how they built all these structures hundreds of years ago. These are the people that predicted that the world is going to end on December 21, 2012.

We spent the day wondering around the city and learning more about how the people lived.

We played at the beach for a little while and soaked in some more sun. I never get tired of beaches. I could play on a beach all day! The water was warm and waves are always fun to play in!

This was my favorite towel animal of the whole week. We walked into our room and the "Turn down Service" had already been there so we saw this little thing hanging from the ceiling. I thought it was pretty cute!

Saturday was spent on the boat just relaxing and catching up from the three crazy Island days. By Sunday we were ready to be home. Our ship had to turn around because of a medical emergency so we were late docking, but the employees had to be prepared for the next arrivals so we all just had to sit out by one of the pool decks and wait.

Dan just waiting for our dock number to be called!

It was an incredible vacation! We had such a blast and I highly recommend going on a cruise! It is the best way to travel and you never have any worries. It was amazing! I was excited to get home and get my little Ranger from the Kennel.

And here we are again....BEHIND!

2011-05-04T10:53:00.000-07:00

I feel like everything happens all at once and I don't get a chance to blog about it! I have a legit excuse though. Its been crazy around here lately and well we finally got settled enough to get our internet hooked up! So I am back online, and now since I am a stay at home pregnant lady I will have oodles of time to blog. Yes I am not returning to work...more on how I feel about that later. So the end has come and it was time to say goodbye to Waco. It started about 2 weeks ago when I said goodbye to my second family at work. I don't know if I ever mentioned that I worked at a bank, but I did and I had so much fun. My co-workers were amazing and I laughed every single day with these people. I worked as a Financial Representative, which meant I was a Lender, I opened CD's and New Accounts and helped people with any money issue they may have been having. I must say I did learn that people are sometimes really stupid with their money!

Anyways, so on my last day of work we had a going away party, It was sad lots of tears and reminiscing. I really enjoyed my time working there and was sad to leave.

Sorry my picture here is a little blurry I think its because they came off my phone and I stretched them to large, but you get the idea. They gave me many gracious gifts for Dan and I and the baby! That was my desk that I lived at. It was home away from home ha ha.

Later that night we went out to La Fiesta for dinner to celebrate well everything that had been going on. This is my boss Stephanie and me. She is my second mom! P.S. Is it just me or does my right boob look massive in this picture?

This is Stephanie, me and my other co-worker Alex. We were the only three that worked at the Hewitt Location so we became very close. The little girl is Alex's Daughter. The other ladies are from different locations. I was sad not everyone could make it there are just a handful of us that work at our locations so we are all very close with each other. I will miss them!!!

The next couple of days were getting set up, a trip to Dallas to get our new place and picking up my parents from the airport. They came down to help us move which ended up being the biggest blessing. Its sad because we hardly took any pictures but this is my parents down by the river walk.

We shopped, laid out by the pool, and then started packing. I can't express enough thanks to my parents for all they did. My dad and Dan literally loaded and unloaded all the furniture to our new place. We have 3 stories and going up and down that many times can be a killer. I felt guilty because no one would let me help because I was pregnant, So while my mom busted her chops unloading boxes and Dan and dad carrying up leather couches,washer and dryer, beds and other furniture up the stairs in 90 degree weather, I just watched and did what I could. Again I don't know how I could have done it without them. They seriously are the best parents ever!!!

My mom was able to come to my last Dr.'s appointment before we moved to Dallas. We heard the heartbeat for the first time which of course was amazing. The doctor left to go get my records for my new doctor and my mom was all gun hoe about getting on the ultrasound machine to do another test. I was laughing so hard. She pretty much can do whatever she wants and I love her for it! It seriously was an amazing week. To much to blog about!

So now they are gone and Dan and I are slowly but surely getting settled in Dallas. Range has been struggling with the move. He keeps freaking out but it will get better for him.

Our next adventure is soon to follow! We are heading out sea bound!! CRUISE FOR THE WEEK!!!!

So behind I don't know where to begin!

2011-04-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

There are so many things I have been wanting to blog about, but nothing seemed as exciting except announcing a little one on the way so i put everything off until that post was out! Now I am a little behind.

So this post is going to have a little bit of everything and if you get bored stop reading but I bet you won't stop! HA HA

HERE WE GO!!

Dan and I have found a place to live in Dallas. Its a nice town home with a garage which I am super excited about! Its three stories, I do admit I am a little worried about all those stairs since I am pregnant, but we might be in a house before the baby is born so it should be ok.

We are moving in 2 weeks which i am super excited, super scared, and super sad about. I'm sad to be leaving my friends and our life here in Waco, but we are excited to be moving on to the next stage of life! NO MORE STUDENT LIFESTYLE!!!

A Picture is Worth a Million Words!!

2011-04-06T17:29:00.000-07:00

The worst things come to mind!

2011-02-02T14:13:00.000-08:00

Texas is going off its rocker! We are having the weirdest weather here. Its freezing cold and raining ice. Of course its only natural for the power to go out.

So when the power does go out why does my mind automatically jump to the thought that the power has been cut by an ax murderer and he is coming to kill me? Last night Dan was at a meeting, so I was home by myself, cell phone in the car and my laptop had 10 minutes left of battery power. I was putting towels in the bathroom when DARKNESS STRIKES! I just stood there dead silent, then about 3 minutes later, I start yelling "Please don't murder me, please don't murder me" as I run around my apartment trying to light the candles and find all the flashlights. Ranger is barking which doesn't help the situation any, once I got everything together I just sat in the corner so my back wasn't to any open hallways. I didn't want to be snuck up on.

The power went out about 7:30 and Dan didn't get home until 9:30ish. It was a long two hours!

Once he got home i felt a lot better. The power continues to be off as we eat cold things and try to drink all juices and milk in the fridge before they go bad.

I am just wondering what one might do in these types of situations. How do you occupy your mind so that you aren't constantly thinking about being murdered and how you wish you had eaten that last good meal before you die!

Sweeping

2011-01-20T18:41:00.001-08:00

I am sweeping my kitchen floor after dinner, now, I was always taught to stand on the dirty side of the floor because then you don't track anything on the clean part, makes sense right, but as I am sweeping I keep stepping on things, and they stick to my feet! I am constantly dragging my feet to get the little crumbs off! This means I am scattering the little crumbs everywhere causing my sweeping to be useless. How do you sweep to not have this happen? ITS DRIVING ME CRAZY!

Don't make fun of me!

2011-01-18T09:24:00.000-08:00

Guys I really love my dog. So what else could I do but throw him a birthday party on his 1st Birthday. It just made sense. Even though Ranger hated wearing his hat, he loved all the awesome treats he got that day.

We invited friends over to celebrate with us, and for his birthday they gave him a new chew rope and some milk bones, THANKS GUYS! (and Ranger made a new best friend Luke Mott).

It was so fun!

TEXAS RANGER TURNS 1. (7 in dog years)

This is how Range felt pretty much the whole time he had to wear his hat. The things I make my dog do. ha ha

We had an ice cream cake for everyone, and then we made Ranger a special peanut butter cake with cream cheese filling and crushed bone topping.

Yep me forcing ranger to wear his hat again!

I was trying to get a good picture with Ranger but he was being very uncooperative.

Dan and I got him this bed for his Birthday, and at the end of the night he disappeared and we found him curled up in it! He is so cute!

DISCLAIMER: OK People I do know that he is just a dog, and that half you are probably thinking I am weird, but we have so much fun with this little guy, and he keeps me company when Dan is gone. So make fun all you want, but I promise you there will be plenty more posts about TEXAS RANGER LANCASTER!

Its Christmas Time in the REXBURG!

2011-01-06T17:21:00.000-08:00

This is a big post. So if you are not interested in reading the whole thing I bolded and * my favorite parts.

Christmas came and went so fast that it's hard to believe that it even happened. Luckily we had an amazing Christmas with my family this year, and that defiantly helps the realization that the whole experience really did happen.

Lets take it one step at a time....

MY BIRTHDAY 12/23/2010

It all started on a beautiful sunny day in Texas, when I woke up and thought "ITS MY BIRTHDAY AND I AM @$!!!" I love my birthdays.

Dan took Ranger out for his morning routine and come back with a birthday card from Ranger. IT WAS ADORABLE! We then finished packing and headed to the airport but first..

*I came out to the car and the whole inside was decorated with balloons, confetti, and streamers! I LOVED IT!!!! Then every time we hit a major city on our drive to Dallas Dan gave me a birthday gift. I admit it was the best drive to Dallas I ave ever had. I WAS SPOILED!

We flew from Dallas, and I thought it was going to be way stressful with a lot of people, but the airport was empty. We were checked in and through security within 20 minutes. It was awesome.

*We flew with Ranger.... Need I say more?

Poor little thing was put in a tiny little bag and had to stay at the bottom of my feet the whole time. It was a very stressful day for him.

We took him out at Denver and started walking around. We were both busy looking at the screens and trying to figure out our next connection when we looked down and Range left a nice little present for us. :) DAN WAS MORTIFIED, I LAUGHED HYSTERICALLY!

It felt so good to see snow again flying into Idaho Falls. We walked off the plane and my sister (MEGS) and my parents were there with balloons and very happy faces. I love that feeling of seeing my family after being gone.

Ranger hated the snow. He tipped over again, and again trying to not get his little paws wet. It was very entertaining to watch him walk around like a prissy little girl.

When we got home we settled in and my other sister (MICH) and her family got to the house. We ordered Fongs (WHAT ELSE) and had a great birthday celebration.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!

CHRISTMAS EVER 12/24/2010

Christmas Eve was full of Christmas Eve festivities!

We shopped a little, cooked, and played out in the snow.

I have missed the snow so much and it felt good to be outside in such crisp air.

*We hooked a tube and sled to the snow machine, and rode around. We also took rides out in the field and just cruised around. It seriously felt like the old days! The kids had a blast and no one wanted to go in, but it was time for the festive Christmas Eve dinner.

I don't know what it is but Christmas Eve dinner is the best dinner out of thee entire year! The food is always perfect, people are just happy, and everything is amazing.

*MY MOM IS THE BEST COOK!!

Christmas Eve was full of food, games and the opening of Christmas Eve pajamas.

CHRISTMAS DAY 12/25/2010

All of Christmas Day gets to be bolded

*Christmas morning was hectic, and super fun with my nieces and nephews.

The day always goes by so fast, there is just no time to stop.

My dad got a Red Wii for Christmas, so we pretty much played that, played millions of games and ATE, ATE, ATE!!

We went snow machining some more, and just played all day.

If you are wondering what this is, we played a game where we had to do these random acts.

Dad had to wear a pickle mustache for one whole turn

I had to act like a cat, and drink out of a bowl

Megan had to switch socks with Michael.... NOT PRETTY!

BOXING DAY (CANADIAN) 12/26/2010

Pretty much the same thing as Christmas day.

* We did go out to a field and we attempted shooting some guns, my brother and brother in law who think they are invincible got stuck, and so we spent most of the time digging them out. When I say we I mean them (Dan, Mikey, and Cam) the girls just watched....and laughed

my oldest sister (Brooke) came down with her family, so everyone was home! it was so chaotic, but I wouldn't have wanted it any other way!!

GOING HOME DAY 12/27/2010

Flights were delayed everywhere.

Our flight from Idaho Falls was delayed 45 minutes. When we landed in Arizona, WE LITERALLY HAD 5 MINUTES TO RUN A MILE! Our connecting flight was clear across the airport. To this day we still can't believe that we made that flight.

When we get home, we headed to the car and Dan's unlock button wasn't working, we thought thats weird, then mine wouldn't work either. come to find out OUR CAR WAS DEAD!

I admit it was me who left the over head light on, but lucky for me I have a very patient husband who laughed and solved the problem! Thanks Dan!

WOW! I made it to the end. I told you there was a lot to read, but it was worth writing it all down!

Moving Upward

2010-12-18T06:10:00.000-08:00

Literally we are moving up! To the big city of Dallas TX. We actually have known for a while, but I have been super busy, and then super sick so I forgot to blog about it! I know, I let myself down a little bit too!

Through the month of November Dan received Job offers, that could take us all over, but after much deliberation, prayer and more prayer we decided to take the offer in Dallas Tx. Texas really has become home for us, we have loved it here and we really wanted to stay in the state so our wish came true.

Dallas is only about 1 1/2 hours north of Waco (where we live now) so moving is going to be super easy! I am so excited to be closer to a LDS temple, an international airport, and of course MUCH better shopping. Dan is happy just to have a Hockey team that he can cheer for down in the states (SILLY CANADIANS AND THEIR HOCKEY!)

I do admit that I am a little intimidated by such a large city, but I know I will learn my way around and LOVE IT!!!

We're not moving until May, but we are already anxious to get going. I guess once you know that next step is available all you want is to go, but I am trying to enjoy my last months here in Waco and experiencing everything we can.

Anyways just thought I would share the update!

HERE'S DALLAS!

Oh How a Song Sticks in Your Heart!

2010-12-10T17:14:00.000-08:00

There truly is something magical about Christmas, and all that comes with Christmas, Yes even the shopping, the gift wrapping, and the hustle and bustle, and I LOVE IT ALL!! I never get sick of the repetitive Christmas music that plays on all my stereo's all month long! Every time I hear the orchestrated song "Sleigh Ride" I can't help but to think of those years I played the violin in my high school Orchestra in the Tabernacle on Temple Square, SLC. This was a major tradition for my high school and every year was AWESOME! Our big finale was always the Sleigh Ride song. We had the whip sound and all along with Mr. Hansen our Director playing the trumpet as horses.

I think back to those times and how awesome we thought we all were in high school. Oh wait I still think I'm pretty awesome. How riding a massive bus for 4 hours would be the highlight of the trip. Walking around temple square and looking at the lights, eating at Olive Garden and always disobeying the chaperones by sneaking out of our hotel rooms. I now realize how awful that is, and how much those parents had to of hated my friends and I, but to be honest I am sure I would do the same thing all over again.

I know that these little memories I write about are pointless to some of you to read, but I don't think before I put things on my blog, and I know that many of you , who went to Madison High School and played in the Orchestra, will be laughing about this, as your own memories come flooding back.

This is something that just popped into my head as I'm sitting here listening to "Sleigh Ride" :)

REMEMBER GREAT MEMORIES THIS CHRISTMAS, AND REMEMBER TO MAKE AWESOME NEW ONES!!!

LOVES!

These are my friends from High school. We all were in Orchestra together for many many years!

Vanessa, Megs, Siri, Deidre, Katherine, Heather, Me, Danielle, and Nicole

I believe this was my Jr. Year in Highschool (Date is wrong on Camera)

I'm a Mormon

2010-11-29T18:32:00.000-08:00

I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and being here in Texas has given me many opportunities to share about my faith. I get asked the question a lot of why I am mormon, by those who may not know what the mormon church is, or because they have different beliefs, so I decided that I would set up a mormon profile on here. I have put a button on my blog and if you go to the right hand side and click on the "I am Mormon" button then you can read all about why I am a Mormon. It was really fun to set up and I hope that reading this inspires you to make one if you are LDS, and if you are not check it out because its a great!! Its awesome to bear your testimony and to have the opportunity to have people ask you about the gospel!

Anyways Check it out!

3 Years and Counting

2010-11-14T16:00:00.000-08:00

Dan and I celebrated our 3 year anniversary on the 10th of November. I can't believe it's already been 3 years. I look back on just those 3 years and realize at how much life has changed, how much Dan and I have changed, and the affect that change has had on our marriage (FOR THE BETTER). It's been an amazing 3 years with definite challenges and lots of ups and downs, but there is no one I would rather go through life with than Dan. He definitely makes life all that much more adventurous.

Our anniversary was on Wednesday; Dan sent me a dozen roses for each year we have been married. I LOVED IT! They were beautiful and I have never received so many roses before.

Thursday we took off, and this year we decided to take a trip to the coast to Corpus Christi.

here's our trip in a nut shell.

Thursday was Veteran's Day; we both had work and school off, so we headed to the coast early to see my Uncle Tom, and Aunt Cindy. We checked out the area, because with Dan's Job offers there is a possibility we will be living in Houston. We were able to see my cousin and he husband, and then we went to dinner.

After, we headed over to Corpus Christi.

Corpus Christi Docks by our hotel

Our hotel was right on the beach, and the view from our balcony was beautiful. The picture on the right is the view from our room. Also Dan and Ranger (Yes we brought Ranger) enjoying the view. You could walk right out of our hotel and be on the beach. It was great taking Ranger for walks by the water, even though he hated it.

We went to a few art museums, and then to the U.S.S Lexington that was used in WWII. It was so amazing, and crazy to be on such a massive ship. We were able to walk through the whole ship. When we went down to the sleeping quarters, I became claustrophobic, and had a panic attack, and literally started running up those really narrow stairs just in like the movies. I now have dreamt about being in the army every night since. I wake up freaking out!

That night we celebrated our anniversary with a very nice dinner. 'The Republic of Texas' was on the top of the Omni Hotel, We had a great view of the ocean and it was really romantic. We ate like royalty! It was amazing!

Saturday we woke up and headed to the North Padre Island. It was a little bit colder, but we headed to the beach, and just walked the coastline, picking up shells and splashing our feet in the water.

We spent the rest of the day shopping and eating.

To end the evening we took a sunset boat ride out on the ocean. We watched the sun go down, listened to the music and enjoyed the view.

Of course entertaining ourselves.

Sunday morning we woke up and headed home. It was so much fun and I loved every minute of it.

Next year we will be somewhere different, a different city and a different life than we know here in Waco, Texas. Real Jobs and no longer be considered students. It's going to be weird and I can't wait!!

It has its own club and everything!

2010-11-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

This week Dan is in Colorado at GSA. “What is that?” You ask? It stands for

“Geolological Society of America”

Now people, this is huge to the geology world. Everyone who is anyone in geology is apart of the GSA. Ya, they have little membership cards and everything. Since Dan has been traveling a lot lately I get asked the question of why, or what is it that your husband does? When I answer their question by responding that he’s a geologist, I have to prepare myself for an explanation of what that entails. It’s not just a simple one worded answer, people want to know what in the world he does as a geologist. You see, geologists are in high demand, and I also might add very good looking, but I am going to take this time to explain what it is that my husband does, or will be doing pretty much for the rest of his life.

Dan is a Geologist.

According to the English world dictionary, Geology is ‘The scientific study of the origin, history, structure, and composition of the Earth.’ And a Geologist studies all of it. There are many, many different types of Geologist.

What is it that Dan does specifically?

Dan is a Petroleum Geologist.

“A petroleum geologist is an occupation that involves all aspects of oil discovery and production. Petroleum geologists are usually linked to the actual discovery of oil and the identification of possible oil deposits or leads. It can be a very intensive task involving several different fields of science and elaborate machinery. Petroleum geologists look at the structural and sedimentary aspects of the stratum/strata to identify possible oil traps. Petroleum geologists make the decision on where the location of drilling will occur. This is done by locating prospects within a sedimentary basin.” –Sourced-

There you have it, that’s what Dan does.

I love that Dan is a geologist, I love that he’s doing something different and out of the ordinary, and that he loves it, and has such a passion for it.

I LOVE BEING A GEOLOGIST’S WIFE!

Ranger's First Race

2010-10-22T17:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, a local animal adoption center put on a race for dogs, and of course humans. There was a 5k and a 10k, but there was also a 1k for dogs. It was for a good cause and we thought it would be fun so we signed Range up for his first race.

We got to Heritage Square about 7 am and the place was swarming with dogs. Some were dressed up in halloween costumes because there was a halloween costume contest after the race. We didn't dress Ranger up, he just wore a coat, but it was fun to see all the dog costumes.

Ranger did very well, we were nervous of how he would react around other dogs, but as soon as the whistle was blown, Range took off! He was in it for the win! ha ha. It was a fun to get out and spend a Saturday Morning with Dan. I swear I'm not a crazy dog lady, really I'm not, but I can't believe how many things there are for dogs. Its a whole new world I had no idea about. ITs GREAT! ha ha

Here are some pictures! ENJOY!

Where will He go Next?

2010-10-09T10:15:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling a little guilty lately, and I would like some reassurance that I am not a horrible wife, but Dan has been gone so much that my patience is waring thin. I know the reason why he is gone all the time is for our family to have a wonderful life, I just miss him like crazy!!

We figured that out of the two(almost three) years we have been married Dan has been gone six months! We have managed and Dan has been so incredibly patient with me and my complaints, but this summer and early fall seems to be toughest.

INTERNSHIP- 3 Months

Then Since Then:

FIELD TRIPS

FIELD WORK: CALIFORNIA, UTAH, ARIZONA & COLORADO

EXPOS

JOB INTERVIEWS OVER AND OVER AGAIN!!! Oklahoma, Colorado, Houston, Dallas, Wyoming

SECOND JOB INTERVIEWS OVER AND OVER AGAIN... Ok I do have to brag about this one. So far since school started Dan has had 5 interviews, and has received all 5 second interviews. YA HE'S PRETTY BRILLIANT!!

SEE! all this stuff it for us, for our future, for our children, and here I am complaining at how much he is gone. Yes I guess I am asking for a pity party and how pathetic I am. I don;t want you to think that I am not grateful for all of his hard work, I know how stressful this has been on him, but I'm ready for my husband back! Please tell me I'm not a bad wife.

Its in the Air...

2010-09-27T17:23:00.001-07:00

This time of year I always get a little homesick.

September marks the start of the cold, the start of getting ready for the winter. The start of getting Christmas Ideas and the start of the end of the year.

Idaho in the fall is so beautiful and the air is so fresh and crisp. Compared to the Texas heat where it still feels like summer. I miss the leaves changing and the thought that in just a couple of months the town would be white with snow. I miss the fall smells at my parents home. I miss knowing that this weekend is General Conference and I won't be with my mom shopping at Mini Bizzar while the guys are at priesthood. I miss stepping out the front door and having that cold air hit my face. Its just the small little things that come flooding back to me this time of year. I love Texas, it truly has become my second home, but Rexburg will always have a special place in my heart.

He Told me not to bring it up but DAN TURNS 26!

2010-09-19T19:21:00.000-07:00

I don't know why but Dan really struggled turning 26. Its so funny and adorable, so this Birthday I wanted to be good. Dan does so much for me 364 days out of the year and so i always want his birthdays to be super special and with him its pretty easy because he is so grateful for everything.
I loved that Dan's Birthday was on a Saturday so that we had the whole day to just hangout since he is going to be gone for the next three weeks. (Yep he is gone again!) We spent most of the day opening gifts and as you can tell Dan got an electric guitar so we had a jam session. I love sitting and playing the guitar together its so much fun! He also got a little mini fridge for his office. His office mate had a mini fridge but then he graduated and Dan really missed it, so I thought I would surprise him and get him one for his birthday. Ah I love how excited he gets!! HE'S SO CUTE!

Later that night we headed to Dallas to go to the Plano Balloon Festival. It was quite the ride up there,traffic was a nightmare but we had fun entertaining ourselves in the car. We spent the evening at the festival, walking around and watching the hot air balloons. Its amazing how hot air balloons work. They are so cool!
We had a late dinner at Freebirds and then headed home. Dan said he had an awesome birthday and thats exactly what I like to hear. Its weird to think that the next time we celebrate Dan's birthday we will be in a different town, a different apartment, well starting a change of life.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOVE!!

They say to always "Wear a Helmet"

2010-09-16T18:32:00.001-07:00

I woke up Wednesday morning, and Dan and I took Range for a run. I was feelin good so I thought its finally cooled down enough that I could ride my bike to work. I loved it and it felt good to continue the exercise.

I head home for lunch and have a wonderful hour.

Little did I know what was coming!

So I am riding along and I make it to the busy intersection. I turn left and start riding, well a car pulls in front of me. I SLAM on my front brake and ONLY my front brake and go FLYING OVER the front of my bike.

Luckily my shoulder broke my fall and then my head hit second, crashing to the cement. Let me remind you that this all happens in front of a busy intersection and gas station. I'm pretty sure the whole town saw me take flight.

A nice older man pulls over and this is how our conversation goes:

Him: "Are you ok!?! I just saw what happened"

ME: " My shoe, I lost my shoe, can you please help me find it"

Him: "We will find your shoe, but you might have a concussion, follow my finger"

ME: "I can't I need to find my shoe"

Him: "Do you want to go to the hospital? Your head looks ok, but do you feel ok?"

"You need to be careful especially when riding with no helmet and slip on dress shoes"

ME: "No sir I have shoes, see! I just lost the one"

Him: "No, I know, your shoe is right here, I will get it for you, are you sure you don't want me to take you to the hospital?"

Me: "No I'm ok I just need to go to work, Thank you so much for stopping, you are nice!"

Him: "Well I hope your ok!"

Me: "I am thank you so much!"

I go to push my bike and I messed up the front brakes and wheel, so with my damaged head, and a bleeding shoulder I pick up my bike and carried it the rest of the way to work. When I walked in My boss had a look of horror, They were so sweet to me and bandaged my up.

Today I am immensely sore, with massive bruises all over my body! My head is ok just a few bumps and bruises around my eye, and well, as my shoulder goes, it still pretty nasty and hurts really bad, but I'm ok.

The moral of the story is wear a helmet and DO NOT HIT ONLY THE FRONT BRAKES!!

LABOR DAY WEEKEND

2010-09-12T17:21:00.000-07:00

Ah!! I love 3 day weekends! Its a good time for Dan and I to catch up on things and spending time together. School started back up about 3 weeks ago and Dan has hit the ground running. He is already crazy busy and going to be traveling a lot this semester! I thought I had him back once his internship was over but it looks like I will be a loner once again, but I will survive.

So our weekend was full of awesomeness. Days that I get to just hangout with Dan are always awesome.

Having Monday off was exactly what we needed. We had plans with friends later that day, but we wanted to make sure we took full advantage of every minute.

We have under a year left in Waco, Texas and we decided that we better start taking advantage of our surroundings, so we headed to the Cameron Park zoo! If you look at our previous posts we spend a lot of time at zoos. Dan and I love zoos!

It was surprisingly a nice zoo for being in Waco TX. We had fun taking pictures and looking at animals that we have seen a million and one times, but they never seem to get old. Here are some pictures from the zoo.

Then there is this guy! Yep I have to put a picture of range on here. He felt left out.

Is it creepy how much I love this dog?

I DID A TRIATHLON

2010-08-24T17:33:00.000-07:00

This post is kinda long, I go into some detail but I don't feel bad because

I DID A TRIATHLON!!

I swam… I biked… I ran…. I FINISHED!!!

I did my first triathlon on August 21, 2010. The whole Mendenhall family crossed the finish line. I admit I was the last one in the family to cross, BUT I was not the last person in the race to cross, which made me feel good. My goal was to finish and I did!

It was hard, it was really hard, but I finished with a smile on my face, well once I crossed the finish line. J I seriously am so proud of myself and my family. It’s such an accomplishment and to say that I did it with my entire family is pretty amazing.

My family is honestly what kept me going!

I talked to Megan almost every day in panic over this stupid triathlon, but she always calmed me down and told me that she would be right there with me.

Even though she ended up kicking my trash she still was a great support.

I flew into Idaho on Wednesday night, and the rest of my family came up on Thursday.

Thursday morning my mom and I went and did part of the triathlon running trail. I did ok except for my lungs were on fire. MAJOR ALTITUDE CHANGE from what I was used to training in. The fam did a practice swim in Rigby Lake. I had a panic moment and thought I was done the water temperature in Idaho is a little different then Texas, but good ol’ Mikey helped me focus on the swim and not how cold the water is. He was awesome.

Thursday night me, my sisters, and mom went to go pick megs up from the airport. This is what Megs came down the stairs to:

Two missionaries came home that night too, so there were a lot of people there. I thought my mom was going to have a heart attack of embarrassment

The days were packed with such fun things like Jessica’s baby shower, Bear world, but most of the time my stomach was in knots. All I wanted was for race day to be here. When it arrived I felt more nervous, but when the start sound went off I dove into the water not thinking twice.

SWIM

Rainbow Lake, I had to swim around a lake.

We had our blue swim caps and goggles on and started swimming when the horn went off. My sister Michelle kept yelling to make sure I was ok, and kept telling me where to go because I couldn’t see the markers in the water. I think we talked for the majority of the swim, it helped pass the time. Ha ha probably wore us out more, but it still was fun. We caught up to my dad and we all just kept an eye on each other. At the end they had volunteers there to help get you out of your wetsuit, well they strip ya down, and mine got stuck on my foot, but they just kept pulling and pulling I seriously was bouncing up and down on the mat, telling them to let me just pull it off but they were persistent and got it off. My brother in Law Joe was dying of laughter.

BIKE

Training, I was very strong on my bike, but Rexburg Hills got the best of me, and that’s where I struggled the most and lost the majority of my time. I gave myself pep talks “Yes out loud” and sang along with my music. It helped. I was by myself for the majority of the bike so I thought I was the last one.

RUN

The running trail was intense. I do admit that when I started my run, Michelle and Megan passed me running to the finish line. They were a good half hour a head of me. It made me a little sick knowing I still had all my run left and they were about to cross the finish line, but I kept going.

To cross the finish line you have to go through our high school gates and run around the track to cross. I saw my family all cheering and I started to cry. It was very emotional knowing that I was almost done.

My sister Brooke grabbed my hand and told me to keep running no matter what. My sisters all joined me for the last little bit and they crossed the finish line with me.

I have an amazing family. My Mom and Dad are amazing for running in the race, and plus planning for our entertainment and keeping us fed. I honestly don’t know how they do it.

THEY ARE INCREDIBLE! I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR THEM!!!

I am very proud of myself for doing something that I never thought in a million years I would do. Now I am hooked. I can’t wait for next year to do it all over again.

Here are the rest of the photos from the weekend!

Well its here

2010-08-19T14:35:00.001-07:00

The triathlon that I feel has taken over my evenings with all the training, but its here.

Swim cap: Check

Wet Suit: Check

Running Shoes: Check

Bike: Check

So nervous I want to vomit: Check

WISH ME LUCK!!!!

Dan is Coming Home

2010-08-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

Dan is coming home. In fact he will be home in about 30 minutes FOR GOOD!!!!

I AM VERY EXCITED!!!

I wanted to give Dan a welcome home gift, so I drew him a picture and had it framed.

Thought I would share my amazing art.

Swimming with something!

2010-08-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

The Triathlon is in 11 days, and my nerves are getting the best of me. I try to comfort those nerves by talking to my sister Mich.

Instead of comforting words she sends us a picture of what we will be swimming with during the swim portion of the race.

Can't wait....

We Came, We Saw, He CONQUERED!!

2010-08-03T19:46:00.000-07:00

TEAM B.A.D + Wives have FINALLY been made complete.

I realize this post is kind of long, sorry!

Dan’s best friend Adam got married in Vancouver, Canada this past weekend, and we are so excited for him and his new bride Nicole. I think Adam is happy, not only because he got married (obviously), but because he no longer is the fifth wheel in our adventures. (Not that it ever bothered us, but Nicole is definitely a plus!)

FRIDAY:

Dan Flew from Oklahoma City, and I flew from Austin.

I had to leave Ranger for the first time, and it was the saddest thing ever! Luckily he was in good hands!!

We met up at customs in Vancouver. It was a very interesting day of flying. Both Dan and I had delayed flights cutting it close for our connections. Luckily the second flight was held for Dan and four others, or else he wouldn’t have made it. OH THE JOYS OF FLYING!

Dan’s dad came and picked us up and we went to bed since we got in about midnight which is 2 o’clock Texas time.

SATURDAY:

We woke up and saw Dan’s other best friend Brady and his wife Lisa. Turns out their hotel room was right across from ours. They just had a little girl named Taya and she is perfect. Ah she is adorable and I must say she already loves her aunt Lesli.

We went for a run before breakfast and my lungs were ready to explode. The altitude change about killed me. I am nervous about what its going to be like in Rexburg the day of the race!!

All of us got ready and headed to the temple.

This temple made #7 for me! My different temple count is going up.

The wedding was at noon, and it was amazing. I cried through the whole thing. I just love Adam and am so proud of him for finding such an amazing girl!

After the wedding, it was pictures and more pictures, smiles and more smiles. Our hubbies and the rest of the wedding party headed to a park for more pictures while Lisa, and me were treated to a great lunch by my in-laws. It was great to catch up with them, without Dan dominating the conversation. MAN THAT BOY CAN TALK!!

Lunch was great at one of my favorite Canadian Restaurants “Boston Pizza” and then it was back to the hotel for naps. I love nap time.

Later that night there was a ring ceremony for those who were not in the temple. Adam and Nicole were so cute, and we were all so proud of Adam not cracking a joke during his vows. GOOD JOB ADAM!!

The day went by so fast, and it was already time to think about heading home. We cleaned up, and said good bye to Adam and Nicole.

SUNDAY: We said our goodbyes to Dan and Lisa, and headed to the airport. It was way to fast of a trip, less then 48 hours. Vancouver is beautiful and I wish we had more time to spend there.

I love weddings and I love that I was able to marry into such a close group of boys. I am proud to say I am married to a member of TEAM B.A.D!!

CONGRATS ADAM & NICOLE!!

We hardly touched the remote and it fell apart. I am not sure why, but we were laughing so hard about it.

Brady and Adam putting on their groomsmen ties for the wedding.

Dan and I just outside the Vancouver Temple. My face looks really fat in this picture. I don't like it.

Just hanging out waiting for the bride and groom to come out.

VANCOUVER, CANADA TEMPLE

They just look so handsome.

Me and Adam before the ceremony.

The groom and his groomsman

Me and Nicole at the reception. Her backyard and house is beautiful! It could be in the magazine Home and Garden magazine.

Uh, we are weird

The love birds

I'm not sure, but they are just funny

Little Taya, she was so adorable wrapped like a pea pod. ha ha she was so cute!

No comment....

TEAM B.A.D themselves

The famous pose that has to be done at every wedding.

At the Vancouver airport, there were birds flying around and they lived in the trees. It was adorable

My Sugar Pie. I love him so much!

He's cute when he's sleeping.

and thats the end of our Journey. Its never a dull moment for Dan and I, even if we live far apart from each other, we find some type of way of entertaining ourselves.

Occupying My Time

2010-07-22T19:00:00.001-07:00

Dan only has 4 weeks left in Oklahoma at Sandridge! Now they always say the last stretch is the hardest, and who ever "they" are, well their right. The weeks go by so slow and the weekends Dan is home go by way to fast. But I am hangin in there, just counting down the days until I will finally get to have him home. I am starting to forget what its like to have him next to me on a Tuesday. No there is nothing special about Tuesdays, just an ordinary day. I just miss him.

Having Dan gone is hard, but luckily I have great friends who let me tag along and be the 5th wheel. Ya its a great feeling sitting at your own table at "5 Guys" and sitting in the middle with the couples on either side of me. ha ha

I do love my friends and I am so so grateful for them! TRULY!!

So Monday night for Family Home Evening we went to dinner obviously at "5 Guys" and went to a movie. "Despicable Me"

As everyone finished paying I stepped up to pay, and said one please.

The Lady said "Do you have your student ID"

I said "Oh no I don't go to Baylor, just regular price"

She said "Well your high school ID will work too, if you want to use that."

I said "Um I graduated high school 5 years ago, and have been out of college for a year."

She looked at my and said ok, and gave me my ticket, but she gave me a weird look, to be honest I don't think that she believed me, but oh well. Hopefully my youthfulness looking will stay with me forever!!

All in all it was a great night and I had loads of fun. I absolutely missed Dan, its amazing how much you rely on someone even just going to a movie.

4 MORE WEEKS!!

LOSER(Lesli Lancaster) Pure seduction/Last AirBender(Krista & Jeff)

The normal couple (Robert & Lauren)

Look how cute everyone is, and then there is me. My Mouth is huge, and my neck is about to explode. This picture was very hard to take, I am just happy I got everyone in!

I LOVE THESE PEOPLE!

Spreading the Word!

2010-07-15T14:32:00.000-07:00

I feel like I need to help somehow, and the best thing I know to do is spread the word about The Sullengers. Pat and Ashley Sullenger are from Rexburg Idaho and have a little girl named Preslee who fell into a Canal last Friday night, and was found 2 miles down from where she fell in. She is at Primary Children's hospital in critical condition, and is still fighting! I feel so helpless reading their blog and not being able to do more besides pray for them. So I am trying to spread the word out as much as possible. Please pray and if you can donate to the Sullengers. I know many of you who read my blog know them and are close to them and I am sure you are doing all you can but even if they are total strangers to you please pray for them and their daughter Preslee. I really just want to help anyway that I can. Here are the links that you can go to for more information!

Cool

2010-07-14T19:11:00.000-07:00

I hope Dan and I can be as cool as they are when we grow up. Except replace the bird with the Range Dog.

Double Rainbow Guy

2010-07-09T06:33:00.001-07:00

Even if you have a minute, watch this. Its so fetchin funny that I couldn't help but share it!

This guy gets so excited about a double rainbow, that he starts crying. Ok to be honest I don;t know if its real or not, but who cares its hilarious!

God Bless AMERICA

2010-07-05T16:40:00.000-07:00

Did you know that when Dan proposed to me, I randomly busted out singing God Bless America. And the weirdness still continues for Lesli Lancaster.

The 4th of July is always so much fun! Its seriously one of my Favorite Holidays. I feel so proud to be an American! Sunday 4th of Julys are a little tougher. No swimming or snow shacks, but it was still so much fun.

My celebration started on Friday, when Dan came home, even earlier then expected. (Thank you Sandridge for letting him leave early!)

On Saturday we did a little shopping, and my parents came Saturday night. they are here for an EFY in San Antonio. They are the session directors and this year it was Texas! What are the odds they would do an EFY in Texas this year! AWESOMENESS! So we had dinner on the Brazos river and played games, with some party mix. Good times.

Sunday we woke up, Dan had to go early because of meetings, so me and my parents headed to church. My parents took off and we started our fourth of July festivities......

With a Nap!

We had a BBQ with the usual gang and spent most of the day talking and laughing. It was so fun. Then that night, Dan, me, Jeff and Krista headed to the Waco Fireworks. I was a little hesitant because I was thinking waco would be a little weak, but it actually was pretty good. It was super fun! and I can't wait for next year.

Dan and I on the shuttle heading over to Cameron Park

Friends! along with some sexy people in the background

Then there is this guy. My little Ranger! He is getting so big, and I couldn't imagine not having him. This is about as big as he will get. He really hated the fireworks so luckily we left him home for the big ones.

He's a great preparation for kids

Just lounging around. Ah I love this little Guy!

To my Canadian

2010-07-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

Today is Canada's Independence day. I love Canada simply because the most amazing man came from this Native Land.

Dan is so proud of his Country, and I love him for it. Though he lives here in America, he will always be a Canadian at heart!

This is the Canadian National Anthem.

Listen to it!

They actually have a pretty cool Anthem.

Also Here are some cool Facts about Canada, that you may have not known.

1. Canadians Call their Police officers Mounties. Stands for Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

2. Smarties are actually candied coated chocolate, like our m&m's

3. Free health Care for everybody! I think I will go to Canada to have my children

4. The Country is Ran by a Prime Minister, Not a President

5. Their national Language is French

6. Canadians LOVE their Hockey!

7. They have Ketchup Chips! Very Delicious

8. Their Chocolate is A LOT better then Americas

9. Canadians consume more Mac & Cheese than any other Country in the world

10. Very Very Sexy Men come from Canada. (Sorry Americans, No Comparison!)

HAPPY CANADA DAY!

Days

2010-06-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

Next time I see Dan: 2 DaYs

Canada Day: 15 dayS

Independence Day: 18 DAYS

Adam & Nicole's Wedding (VANCOUVER CANADA) : 45 dAY's

Last Day of Dan's Internship: 58 DaYs

First Triathlon (IDAHO): 66 Days

Second Triathlon (FORTHOOD): 101 Days

BUT WHO'S COUNTING....

Washed away

2010-06-14T15:13:00.000-07:00

So my husband is right in the heart of Oklahoma City. He texts me this morning and this is what he says
" So it's raining and flooding here so bad. It took me an hour and a half to get to work! It normally takes 20 minutes. The roads downtown are like rivers. Some roads are blocked off because so many cars have stalled in the water. Some spots the water is flowing over the hoods of cars! I'm so glad I have the SUV. The blue car wouldn't have made it."

at first I thought he was just exaggerating....

I get to work, log onto my computer, check the news and there it is. Top news was the flooding in Oklahoma City!
I freaked, I mean my husband is in that right now!

Don't worry he is safe now in his building, but I hope it subsides by the time he goes home..

Anyways here is a part of the article, and a picture to show just how bad it is. This is down town where Dan works.

This is part of the article

"OKLAHOMA CITY - Flash flooding across Oklahoma City stranded motorists on their morning commutes Monday, prompting at least a half-dozen rescues and three interstate closures, authorities said.
No injuries were immediately reported but drivers were being warned to stay home, Oklahoma Police Lt. Gamille Hardin said. Portions of interstates 35, 44 and 235 all were closed, as were numerous smaller roads in and out of the metro area.
"There are cars where you can see just the rooftops, they're totally submerged in water," Hardin said. Footage from KOCO-TV showed a person bailing water out of the passenger-side window of a half-submerged car as crews prepared a boat rescue."

All in the last three weeks

2010-06-06T18:57:00.000-07:00

It has been three weeks since Dan started his internship in Oklahoma City. We have been trying to see each other as often as we can, but the drive is kinda long, but for love you'll do anything right?

Memorial Day weekend Dan came home since both of us had Monday off, which gave us a longer weekend together.

Saturday was awesome! We slept in, went to our local flea Market, went swimming and hit up the Famous Dr Pepper Museum. Did you know that Dr Pepper was created in Waco, and people used to say "Shoot me a Waco" Cool huh? at least this town is known for something.

The guy that Dan is standing next to was really creepy! and in this picture he is staring right at Dan. again... CREEPY DUDE!

Me in Front of some old machines. I am not really sure what they did, they were just shiny and neat.

Just us in from of some old Dr Pepper signs

We then spent Memorial Day with friends having a BBQ! I love Memorial Day BBQ's it really seems to mark the start of summer! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!

Anyways we got together at Lauren and Roberts and had great food, and just chilled.

Luke and Dan into some deep conversation. They are two very intellectual people. I can't even imagine that conversation went with a future Lawyer and scientist. Way over my head thats for sure!

This was just a random shot in the middle of a conversation but at least we have Krista looking at the Camera! Don't worry Mary you would make a very cute Egyptian ha ha!

Then this past weekend I loaded ranger in the car and took off to Oklahoma. I really wanted to see what Dan's life was like up in the City.

He showed me all around, where he worked. He is a real working man! Works right down town with the big leagues, in a very tall office building. It made me so proud of him!

We went and walked down to "Brick Down" had lunch and walked around the Canal.

We had a very good weekend, to short of course but all in all it was so much fun just to be with Dan, but of course I had to return home.

I had to take a picture because this is how ranger rode home. THE WHOLE WAY! ha ha he was such a good little traveler. My neck was sore by the end the 5 1/2 hour drive, but it kept him happy so it was all good.

I am home now safe and sound, ready for another week to go by so I get to see my hubby again.

I sure hope everyone else had a wonderful memorial day weekend!

Its All About Dan

2010-05-03T18:45:00.000-07:00

This post is 100% dedicated to Daniel Scott Lancaster.

Things have been absolutely crazy for him, and I feel he deserves some praising.

I am pretty sure this past week has been one big whirlwind for Dan that he comes home from school with his head spinning. So a few things that Dan is doing and things that he gets to be praised for...

1. Dan proposed his thesis in front of his committee. Now Dan feels like this wasn't a very big deal, and he probably will kill me once he reads that I put it on the blog but I think it is.

His committee liked his work so his Thesis was approved and now he can continue with his work!

2. He has been working on a massive project for the past couple of weeks. Literally going into school at 8:00 am and not coming home until midnight or 1:00 in the morning. He works so hard, and after this week he will be free well until Monday.

3. Next Monday Dan leaves for 3 weeks for a field trip in Arizona South Utah.(Thats totally going to suck) Its good for him, and he receives school credit for it so thats good.

4. Last but not Least DAN GOT AN INTERNSHIP!! we are so excited, overwhelmed but thrilled that they chose him! It is a paid internship with a company called Sandridge in Oklahoma. He interviewed with them at the beginning of March, so we have been waiting for a while to hear whether he got it or not. To be honest we kept checking the mail expecting a rejection letter because we felt like we would have known by now, but we thought wrong.

We have a lot of details to work out, and the realization of being a part sucks. I would love to go with him if it wasn't for work, but we will figure it out.

Anyways I am so proud of Dan. He works so hard, and he is so smart. I know that he will be successful in whatever he does!

Diadeloso

2010-04-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

Baylor University has a day where school is cancelled, and well basically they just party all day.

They call it Diadeloso or "The Day of the Bear" since the bear is the mascot. (DUH)

The school has food and live music all day, Its great!

Colby Coillate put on a concert that night so we took the opportunity to go and listen to her. I love having Dan at a larger University because they actually have real performers!

We brought Ranger, and he didn't do so well with the loud music so we walked around with him while listening, the music went all through campus. It was so much fun. We met up with some of the Geology girls and just had a good time.

Our Cute Little Family

Stephanie, Me, Mary & Lauren