The Peterson Family

Yes, we are crafters....

2012-02-07T18:51:00.000-07:00

While all my children were home with flu, (this thankfully excludes Truly), we passed the time making valentines crafts. The previous night Brett started puking, then it moved to kissa (chunks all over the carpet and tile downstairs), then it moved to Kash (pizza all over my upstairs carpet). Lets just say our carpet cleaner was put to very good use.
At least it was fast!

Briette is on iTunes

2012-02-03T01:25:00.000-07:00

Just in case you live under a rock, in Shanghai, or even in Malabo... my wife is singer/song writer and her music is now available via iTunes or amazon.com!
I'm so proud of you Briette!

Makissa and Daddy

2012-01-31T16:54:00.000-07:00

OFFSPRING....

2012-01-20T16:57:00.000-07:00

Let it be known that I love my children unconditionally; however, there are those minute fleeting moments, when patience escapes me and I am left with..... well, lets call it impatience! Today is one of those spectacular mothering days. The events from today can only be described as ... character building.

Event #1:
Rockstin, my lovely little boy, decided to dirty, not only his diaper, but this shirt, pants and everything else he touched before I could grab him. (say it with me... BLEACH)

Event #2:
While transferring the office supplies, from the back bedroom, into the new office in the hallway, I was earnestly notified (thank you kissa) of a major NO NO Rockstin had committed. I walked into my bedroom to find BLACK PERMANENT MARKER all over my walls, and WHITE, YES WHITE, comforter. (oh, the things I was thinking...!) After researching the best products to use, apparently other children have done this, the walls are now partly permanent marker free AND paint free....
Rock Rock then fell asleep on time-out while crying for daddy... Yes, I am that good of a mother!

Past Events ....

Because my children, it seems, are turning into hoodlums... it is apparently reasonable to hang from our curtains. (It is possible that my children have a future career in demolition). As a result, we now have holes in the walls where curtain rods use to reside, and our so called curtains are laying in a heap in the back bedroom. Perfect.

One last honorable mention...
Makissa has, at the age of 5, perfected the STOMP, STOMP, YELL, SCREAM, FLOUNCE, FALL, KICK, AND ROLL THROWING A ROYAL FIT ... maneuver. Mommy made the mistake of picking out her clothes for school (what in the world was mommy thinking... seriously). Because mommy is not a 5 year old fashion queen, she obviously picked the WRONG thing to wear to school. As a result, makissa, as she flounced all the way to the stairs, then falling down on the stairs said, "THIS OUTFIT IS HORRIBLE, I LOOK FAT, THIS IS JUST WEIRD WEIRD WEIRD."
Oh my holy bananas....

Just call me Master...

2012-01-14T11:44:00.000-07:00

This last week, marked a major home improvement accomplishment, as our upstairs hallway received a very generous face-lift. Brett's parents gave me the most amazing graduation gift after I received my Masters degree. Paul built me an absolutely gorgeous work space in the cutout we have in the upstairs hallway (it use to be such a waste of space, now it is beautiful and functional!) It only took him about a week to build and it is one of my favorite spaces in my home. Now I can reclaim our back bedroom and actually use it as a kids room for our growing family (So exciting!). In Paul's spare time, he also built a kids table in the kitchen! I am so so so grateful for my in laws and all they do for us. I also must mention that Sara worked especially hard while she was here (helping cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, doing laundry, running errands, taking kids for walks, and painting all the built-ins..... Yes, I am sure she just loved every minute!)
I am sure they counted the minutes until their departing flight, but I am so grateful for them and all they did while visiting us!

I have included before and after images (They really show how much the space improved!)

Truly's Baby Blessing

2012-01-10T10:49:00.000-07:00

Truly was blessed Sunday January 8th, 2012 in the Winchester Ward building. She was absolutely beautiful in her blessing dress (thank you mom!). The day was beautiful, full of the spirit and we were blessed to have our family in attendance. Nana and Papa were able to come, along with Brett's sister, Andrea and her sweet baby JH. My sisters, Tiffani and Cherisse (and their families) Brent Jensen (my brother in law), Mom and Lori were also in attendace. Truly was given the most beautiful blessing and I am so grateful Brett was worthy to give her that blessing. I am so thankful for the priesthood in our home.
After the blessing we came home to a delicious meal, took some pictures, and just enjoyed eachothers company. I love my family and am grateful for them. We are so so so blessed.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-27T12:03:00.001-07:00

This year we spent Christmas at my Mom's house! I went up early with all the kids and stayed with my mom for 4 days before Christmas and the kids had a great time with her and playing at grammy's house. We had a wonderful Christmas eve and Christmas day. Christmas dinner was hosted by my sister Lori and it was yummy! We then drove pepper drive to see all the Christmas lights (I love tradition) Thanks Lori! We then put out the cookies milk and carrots for Santa and the reindeer (we also had the kids spread the reindeer food on the front porch for the reindeer!) Christmas day was fabulous with lots of love, gifts, and food.
I love my family! Merry Christmas!
favorite gifts:
Makissa- pillow pet (unicorn)
Kash and Rock- GeoTrax remote control train
Truly- being held !

Happy Birthday my Sweet Boy!

2011-12-20T10:12:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to my sweet little boy! Kashmin turned 4 years old on the 21st and is getting cuter every day. We celebrated by going out to get pizza as a family and invited all his cousins (Dyers and Thunstroms) He had a blast eating his pizza, winning tickets, opening presents and eating cupcakes! Here are a few things about Kash this year:

He played Soccer for the first time and loved it. We had to remind him that it wasn't football! He is a tough little boy!
He loves to read books, especially brown bear brown bear. He has memorized the book, and reads it to me most every day.
He loves to fall asleep with books. He won't go to bed without at least 2 books beside him.
He loves guns and pretend playing "bad guys"
He is fixated with remote control anything (we purchased a remote control car for him for his birthday, and his face lit up... he loves loves loves it!)
He already wears 5T clothes because most 4t clothes don't fit him (he is one big boy)
He loves playing with kissa and rock (and LOVES to be right by Truly all the time) We are still working on boundaries!
He often gets so excited to tell you something that he can't quite get the words out, so it takes 5 or 6 tries to tell you something!
He runs around all day and randomly will yell, "I love you mom."

He is a sweet loving little boy and we feel so blessed to be his parents. We Love you Kashmin, so much!

santa!

2011-12-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

Our christmas ward party, and santa came!

Christmas card 2011

2011-12-13T23:02:00.000-07:00

Family Pictures!

2011-12-13T23:01:00.002-07:00

Santa... I know him!

2011-12-08T15:19:00.001-07:00

We have been busy getting ready for Christmas! We decorated our house, picked out our tree, wrote Santa letters, and now we just need to deliver the gifts to friends and neighbors!
Santa also visits our neighborhood. This year Santa come on a night Brett had school (oh tinsel, Santa... What were you thinking!) So, there I was, jolly oh St. Nicholas, with 4 kids (one being 3 weeks old) trying to make it to designated santa spot in our neighborhood. Luckily, there were some nice neighbors I didn't know who offered to help a crazy mom out (and take some pics of us with Santa).

I LOVE being a mom...

gobble bob

2011-12-08T15:01:00.001-07:00

This thanksgiving we went to Grammy's house to eat our fill. My highlight of the event was Grammy's famous homemade orange rolls. SO DELICIOUS! Mom busted me for sneaking a few before dinner!
The kids also made a lot of crafts at school before the big day. One especially favorite craft was named GOBBLE BOB (Kashmin was the genius in naming this craft). It was a paper turkey worn on your head! Of course, after kash came home and flaunted gobble bob around, we had to make one for kissa and rock (thanks mom for the crafting help!)

We had a very fulfilling gobble day!

The kids also went with daddy to lowes (to make free crafts ... They receive their own protective eye wear, an apron, and get to use a real hammer, gulp!) They had sooo much fun!

For the first time ever, the kids went bowling for our nieces birthday. Rock fell asleep on the table, and the other two had a great time!

Truly Consetta Peterson

2011-11-13T15:55:00.001-07:00

Born 11-12-2011 at 4:47 PM, at our home in Murrieta.

7 pounds 12 ounces and 20 inches long. 13.5 head and chest circumference.

She loves to eat, sleep and be held.

Makissa's first piano recital

2011-10-29T15:56:00.002-06:00

Makissa had her first Piano recital! She did amazing and we are so proud of her. This was a Halloween recital where the costume matches the song you play. She chose to be Ariel, and played "Part of your world."
She wasn't nervous at all! She just walked right up there, announced, "Hi, my name is Ariel, and I am going to play part of your world from my movie." She played her song perfectly and then curtsied for the audience.
She also received many awards as well; including, Participation award and ribbon, first year ribbon, advancement award (moved from A books to B books), Practicing award (practice at least 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week, for 20 weeks total)
I am one proud Mama.
Her video can be viewed here:
http://youtu.be/ytk_XRF5BOA

October Kindergarten Luncheon

2011-10-29T15:16:00.002-06:00

We are so blessed to live in a neighborhood where there are lots of LDS members. Makissa alone has a ton of church friends her age to go to school with! There are 5 girls in her kinder class that are all members of the church. Therefore, all us moms decided to have a party one Friday of each month (rotating homes so each of us get to host a kinder party!) This October it was at Claudine Taylor's house. She is an amazing woman (and took pictures this time) so I thought I would share this months party! So FUN!

Ward Trunk or Treat!

2011-10-29T15:03:00.001-06:00

The kids had oodles of fun at the ward trunk or treat this year. Our ward is so big, it is held at the stake center. Rockstin was asleep for most of the night so he was not pictured! (I am so glad Brett was there so he could lug him around!)

Halloween 2011 line up

2011-10-21T17:42:00.001-06:00

Makissa-- little Mermaid
Kashmin-- Superman
Rockstin--Tigger

GO TO BED!

2011-10-21T16:01:00.002-06:00

So when we put our children to bed, they do everything but stay in bed....
The other night I was thoroughly fed up, so I put them in their beds one last time, then walked down stairs, closing the gate behind me. This is what I came up stairs to find!
Makissa-- In the hallway
Kashmin-- Half way under the crib in Makissa's room
Rockstin-- On the coach in the playroom

Soccer Pictures!

2011-10-18T14:42:00.002-06:00

This year both Makissa and Kashmin are in soccer. They both love soccer, but are completely different players. For example, Kashmin tackles anything that gets in his way (maybe football will be in his future). In contrast, Makissa just prances along the field, rarely getting too close to the jumble of players, and frequently turns to us, watching parents, to give us a thumbs up..... I am determined to teach her, in the future, how to be aggressive. (girls are required to be tough (and girlie!) in this family!!)

Makissa's School Picture!

2011-10-18T14:33:00.000-06:00

We just received Makissa's Kindergarten school picture today! I was so excited to open the envelope. Much more excited than she was! I think she is just beautiful and I am so thankful to have such a sweet little girl in my life.

We are so proud of her. She comes home with a purple paper almost every week (classroom behavioral chart, indicating she was an extremely good student that day!) and she is doing very well in all areas. Good job Kissa, we love you more than words can express!

Rockstin Turned 2!!

2011-09-06T13:47:00.000-06:00

On August 28th, my little baby turned 2! I can not believe it! We celebrated by having a combined birthday at my sister Cherisse's house (Her little dude also turned 2 on the 30th!)

Here are a few things we Love about our little Rock Rock:

He loves to be a boy (playing with bugs he finds in the backyard,
tackling people, drawing all over my walls with crayon.... etc. ).

He loves firetrucks, pretend guns, and sunglasses

He gives the best "sink face" you have ever seen (the only people he consistently likes are mommy, kissa and kash.... everyone else has to earn his affection back every day!!)

He is an amazing soccer dribbler (at kissa and kash's soccer practice, he kicks the ball all over the place and is a little speed demon)

He loves Monkeys and ducks, which he calls quack quacks...

He laughs and smiles at me when I tell him NO.... (not mommy's favorite thing).

He loves to dance (which is a combination of karate, and boxing moves)

He loves to swim

And Best of all.... He loves to sneak out of his "big boy fire truck bed" in the middle of the night, and sleep in mommy and daddy's bed....

We love you Rock Rock and we are so blessed to have you as our baby boy (at least for another 2 months before your little brother or sister arrives!)

Willey Reunion

2011-08-22T22:12:00.010-06:00

This year we were able to travel to Utah for Brett's family reunion (Willey reunion, which is Brett's mom's side). We played at a lake, went to the park for a family picnic, and visited the ZOO. We were also able to visit with the Peterson cousins that the kids do not often see. We had a great time!

Kashmin's first day of Preschool... (year 2)

2011-08-22T22:01:00.003-06:00

Kashmin was so excited to start school again! He is such a sweet boy. He loves to color, cut (the cutting part makes me a little nervous), and read his favorite book, "Brown Bear, Brown Bear what do you see?" He calls Grammy every night to "read" his book to her (It is very cute because he has memorized the book, page turns and all).
He can use an entire glue bottle in one sitting, if not closely monitored, and loves his teachers Miss Melissa and Miss Carol.
I love this boy so much and am so happy this energized bundle of joy is mine forever!

Kindergarten!

2011-08-16T18:30:00.004-06:00

My sweet little baby girl started kindergarten. I am a blubbering mess. I can not believe she is so grown up. She started kindergarten already reading, "Dick and Jane," writing, math skills, etc. I am so proud of her. She is in a kinder class with 4 other girls from our ward, so we are extremely excited for her!
I am also so blessed to have a husband who holds the priesthood because all my babies were able to receive a fathers blessing prior to starting school. This is such a great blessing to our family.

Well, here we go!

Master of Education and Digital Teaching and Learning

2011-08-01T12:50:00.004-06:00

I did it! I was able to finish my Master's degree in Education and a k-8 teaching credential within 18 months. It was difficult, with the three kiddies, but worth it. I am thankful it is over, but at the same time, I am now wondering what I will do with all my "free time."

Now maybe I can start taking classes at JoAnns .... like cake decorating or sewing...! I need to work on my domestic skills!

Summer Time Fun!

2011-07-20T23:25:00.005-06:00

This summer we purchased an out of ground pool for the kids to swim in. They love it and go swimming almost every day. Today I had my sister cherisse over with her kids for some fun swimming time (thanks cherisse for supplying the ice cream!)

Swimming updates:
Makissa can swim the length of the pool under water
Kash can swim with is face in the water
and rockstin wants to be able to do it all on his own. He constantly tries to pry our hands off him to so he can, "I do it"
Some other funny things Rockstin says:
"what you do"
"No I dont like that"
"a booook"
"daa-yee, da-yee, ma-yee, ma-yee"
We love summer !

MUD RUN 2011

2011-06-28T13:31:00.006-06:00

We did it again!
We ran (sort of) the mud run again this year. It is a 10K race with obstacle challenges! Brett ran it with me this time and we had a lot of fun! I was 21 weeks pregnant when we participated in this 10k so "running" wasn't the consistent pace; however, we still made good time (and we passed people too, which I thought almost impossible).
My pregnant sister, her husband, and a few of her in-laws also ran with us. It was a great date that we will definitely repeat next year as well! Go us :)

Makissa is 5 years old!

2011-06-21T12:31:00.008-06:00

Makissa turned five on the 17th!! She is getting so big and I can not believe how fast she has grown. This year we planned a victorian tea party for her. She was able to invite all her friends and cousins to our house and have a blast. We had a nail station, hair station, make-up station, and photo station. Then we all sat down and I taught the girls about princess manners at the table, ate princess food, had dessert, opened presents, and played outside. It was a very FULL day and I was so tired after it was all over.

A few things about Makissa now that she is 5--
Makissa loves:
Making crafts
Dancing
Soccer
painting nails
swimming
singing
playing (make believe) with her brothers
reading
playing piano (just started lessons in May)

She can not wait for Kindergarten to start in Augusts... I will be the blubbering mom that can not leave her child.

We love you Makissa and are so blessed to have you as a daughter!

Memorial Day at Grammy and Grandpa's House!

2011-06-12T10:16:00.004-06:00

We went to spend some time with my mom for Memorial day. We had so much fun swimming in the pool (thanks for heating it mom!), eating out of her garden (fresh vegetables) eating all her fresh fruit just picked from the yard (black berries, raspberries, oranges, etc.)! We also visited my dad's grave (very hard, but I know he would appreciate the attention!). The kids had fun playing and visiting grandpa. He is buried in a place that he would love. Surrounded by beautiful hills (of course he is on the top of the hill!) and it has rocks to climb and play on right by him. It also had a little stream that runs right by. It is perfect for him. Grammy is the best and we are so thankful we have her! Her house is magical and the kids are always so excited to visit.

Hike to the Falls.... Fun?

2011-06-12T10:02:00.005-06:00

Brett wanted to go for a hike one afternoon to a waterfall. We took all the kids (about a 30 minute ride away) then walked all over creation looking for the falls. It wouldn't have been too bad of a hike other than Kashmin didn't want to walk... so Brett or I held him most of the way. Brett also carried Rockstin the entire time as well. Makissa is the trooper that walked the entire way by herself. We probably walked around 4.5-5 miles during the hike (we never just take the direct route, we have to explore the wilderness, because that is fun.... right?!!)
I re-learned that day that I don't like bugs, don't like dirt, and am really glad I was not a pioneer (not that I can't do the wilderness stuff... I just don't like to do it!).
We had a lot of fun as a family and am glad we were able to spend some quality time together!

King Day at Preschool!

2011-06-12T09:56:00.003-06:00

Kashmin had to dress up as a king for preschool one day.... well, I don't really have a plethora of King costumes, so we improvised and the outcome is somewhat funny! The "K" on the back of his cape is for King and his mustache... well lets just say I tried!
Love you buddy so glad you had an awesome king day! Also, Makissa dressed Kash up one afternoon in daddy's clothes (as a graduate) She wanted to be the photographer for graduation pictures! It was funny.

Primary Talent Show and Soccer awards

2011-06-12T09:50:00.004-06:00

This year Makissa was able to participate in the Primary Talent show again. This year she played her first piano piece and was so proud of herself. She had just started lessons 2 weeks earlier and did so well! After she played the song she jumped off the piano bench and ran to give me a hug! We are so proud of her. In other news, she also finished her soccer season and received a trophy! Good job baby we love you!

Fathers and Sons camp Out!

2011-06-12T09:39:00.004-06:00

This Year Brett took Kashmin to Fathers and Sons camp out. They had so much fun together. They spent the night in the "car" tent, roasted marshmallows, and had an awesome camp breakfast. When I asked Kash what his favorite part was, he said, "We ate Marshmallows!" I am so glad they had a great time and where able to spend some quality time together!!

My first Artist Signing at Ensign book... at least Brett will come!!

2011-06-08T13:07:00.000-06:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/June-Coupon-From-Ensign-Books.html?soid=1102397539126&aid=koXYaue1Eek

2 Years Daddy... 2 Stinking Years

2011-05-26T09:20:00.004-06:00

Alright Dad, it has been 2 years today and I still am trying to figure out how to live without you here to drive me nuts. There are a few things I want to tell you and I guess this is the best way to do that. first, we are pregnant again (I know you are hoping its a boy because you want to keep the score tilted your way!) Second, I am almost done with my Masters (I know you would be proud of me). Third, I miss you very much. As I look at the clock all morning I am reminded of that stinking hospital room where I had to say goodbye. I call mom everyday to check on her for you. She misses you and it hurts to see her struggle without you. I often find myself thinking like you would, especially at the grocery store (more is always better than less!)
(I miss your chuckle ... you know, the one you use when you think someone is an idiot, but you are too nice to say anything, or the one you use when we are watching "private eyes" or "Christmas vacation"). I am trying to raise your grandchildren right, but it would be sure nice to have your advice sometimes! Makissa already has an attitude, Kashmin is showing signs of your temper and Rockstin is as bull headed as you are (Ya, thanks for that one Dad!!) I just want to talk to my dad, who always had an answer to any and all problems. I am sure you are having a jolly old time with your buddy, grandpa Storrs, grandma, etc.... but I miss you here.... you jerk!

I often think of that dream I had of you, not long after left. You know, the one where you told me that it was all true. That you saw His face. I lean on that dream a lot and know that the church is true, that families are forever, and that I will see you again.
Thanks again for all you did and all you still do. I miss you daddy.
I still miss you for my kids, for me, and especially for mom.

Please send my next baby to me with one of your famous head bonks (I am not very good at them, bonking heads gives me a headache!!)

I love you Pops

Love your Dots

Our Seven Year Anniversary

2011-05-16T19:48:00.006-06:00

It has been another year, and this one, marks our 7th year together!
This year it was Brett's turn to plan the anniversary celebration. He was very creative and took me on a dinner cruise out of San Diego harbor! It was so much fun and very unexpected! The cruise lasted for 3 hours and took us all over San Diego harbor; including, sailing under the Coronado Bridge.
We had a very yummy meal, danced, walked around the boat and had a wonderful time.
Thanks Brett for a great anniversary (now I really have to come up with something good for next year... way to put on the pressure!)

A few things that have happened to our this past year:

Makissa and Kashmin are both in Preschool
Rockstin is crazy Brett reborn
We are currently 16 weeks pregnant with our 4th baby
Brett is working for a company called "Liquid Health" and LOVES working there! yay!
Briette Finished her multiple subject teaching credential and will graduate with a Masters of Education this August!
Brett is 5 classes away from an MBA
Brett is still the ward clerk (3 years so far)
Briette has been the 13/14 year old Sunday school teacher for almost 2 years now

We are a crazy busy family and are happy as ever! I am so thankful for all that we have been blessed with. I asked Brett what his favorite thing about our marriage has been so far, he said, "Our three babies." I couldn't agree more! They bring us more joy than we could have ever imagined.

Easter 2011

2011-05-09T15:53:00.006-06:00

We had a lot of fun during Easter time. The kids participated in the primary Easter egg hunt and loved it. The Easter bunny also came to our house this year and left confetti in their rooms with a few Easter eggs, then he left confetti down the stairs with more easter eggs, and eggs all down stairs. I have NO IDEA what the Easter bunny was thinking! Does he know how LONG it takes to vacuum confetti up.... eh eh eh !

I also took the kids out for an Easter Photo shoot. I firmly believe that a photographer should not also have to get the kids dressed, look perfect, make sure they don't get run over, AND take the pictures (not to mention post processing) AHHH
I love my busy, crazy life (almost all the time).

Flower girls are so cute!

2011-05-09T15:17:00.002-06:00

Makissa was a flower girl for a sweet girl in our ward. She was our nanny for a few months while I was student teaching, and the kids loved her.
Makissa felt like a princess and had the best time taking pictures at the temple with the new bride.

We are so thankful for the time we were able to spend with her explaining the importance of temple marriage (even though I wanted to put the boys on leashes!)

If you give a pig a pancake

2011-05-09T15:05:00.002-06:00

If you give the Peterson children anything random... they will do very funny things!

Rockstin has a fetish for putting things on his fingers (legos, marker caps, door stoppers, etc.)
If you give Makissa anything other than what she wants, she will give you, "the sassy face" and continue to say "PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE" until I want to put myself on time out.
If you tell Kashmin he may not have any marshmallows, (we tell him that they are only for when you camp), he will do the following:
1. wake up at 6 in the morning or earlier
2. sneak downstairs
3. push a chair into the pantry
4. climb up the chair and then climb up 3 shelves to the top shelf
5. And reach the marshmallows that are all the way "hidden" in the back.

After we wake up to all the racket downstairs, I come to investigate and find Kash hiding under a blanket with a mouth full of mallows.

Seriously... I never did things like this as a kid... I am thinking he will be the one to ruin all his Christmas present surprises and find his Santa present in mom's closet.

If I did not have my beautiful babies, I would be the most bored person upon the earth.

Funny Little Rockstin!

2011-04-20T14:54:00.003-06:00

Rockstin has a love for kicking and throwing things. This video is of him wearing makissa's crown upside down and kicking a large ball until he is too tired to stand!

Brett and Briette Birthdays

2011-03-24T12:05:00.006-06:00

Brett turned 29 this year and Briette turned 27

We went out to dinner for both birthdays (yes, we are that exciting).

Makissa Spring Soccer 2011

2011-03-24T11:01:00.004-06:00

Makissa is in Soccer again and LOVES it!
She is the sweetest little soccer player and loves to share the soccer ball! This can kind of make mommy a little crazy, but I would never want to discourage her from having fun sharing :)
We love this little grial and are enjoying her more than ever.

First Aid Kit (FHE)

2011-03-24T08:57:00.004-06:00

We decided to complete two first aid kits for FHE this week. One for the car and one for home. The kids were very excited to help! The list of responsibilities for each of the kids include:

Makissa: Band aid stocker
Kashmin: Trash organizer
Rockstin: Take everything a part and make a mess, manager

While doing this I was also trying to participate in a class discussion online, which is a participation requirement for school (this turned out to be almost impossible). Brett was at school, and didn't get home until late, but we had a good time without him, even though we were missing his help!!!!

Now that this project is done, I feel much more prepared! Now we just need to continue working on food storage!

School/Work/Sick

2011-03-15T00:34:00.002-06:00

School, work, and being sick have been kicking the Peterson's trash for almost the entire 2011 year so far. I have been sick for almost 4 weeks now (flu, horrible cough/congestion that WON'T GO AWAY, lost voice, and cough and congestion is back, kids have double ear infections, etc.) Kash also had this crazy leg pain that lasted for a week. He was in so much pain he wouldn't walk.
I am working a lot, which gives me anxiety/guilt breakdowns almost every other day, and school is ..... lets just say I am over it.

On the bright side, Brett loves his job and is working hard, the kids are mostly over their ear infections, and Rock's verbal language is starting to get clearer.

Sorry posting has been at a stand still, I am making myself post tonight, even though I just want to sleep, because I feel like a total blog derelict.

Good Night!

Famous Nelson's in Washington

2011-02-05T01:26:00.007-07:00

I am in Washington visiting my sister Shalyn and her beautiful family! She just had the most beautiful little girl, Cambria and her blessing is tomorrow. Shalyn drove me to around all other Seattle yesterday (sorry Cambria who doesn't like the car!). We went to the most beautiful falls, Snoqualmie, it was breathtaking. We also went to XXX where they have amazingly fatty hamburgers and homemade root-beer (it was sad that I couldn't try the root-beer but Shalyn was completely understanding and didn't make me feel bad in the least bit----- NOT ) she teased me the entire time!
We went to the space needle, drove around down town, went to the temple and had a most fabulous dinner!
It was a wonderful day and I love it !!!

Blessings

2011-01-30T08:09:00.004-07:00

The last 3 weeks we have received great blessings! Brett's parents came to stay with us to babysit our children so I could finish the last 3 weeks of my student teaching. It was quite amazing to have them here. They not only watched the kids, but did so much more. Here is just a small list of all the things they did for us while they were here:

Took care of all the kids needs
Did Dishes (the kitchen was always clean!)
Laundry
Completed little projects that Brett was, "going to get done!"
Washed Windows
Mowed the lawn, and weeded
Organized the detach garage
Vacuumed
Took the kids to the park, on walks, and all over
Fixed Makissa's bike
TOOK OUT THE TRASH!!!
Helped organize the main garage... now I can actually park my car in the garage!... That is AWESOME!
Did errands
Grocery Shopping
Fixed dressers

The List goes on and on. We are so grateful for Nana and Papa and all the support they give us.
Thank you a thousand time for everything. I couldn't have finished my student teaching without you both !

My Little Kashmin is 3!

2011-01-23T22:48:00.004-07:00

Oh how I love this sweet boy! He is a stubborn little stinker (maybe, just maybe I passed that wonderful trait on to him), but he also has the most tender heart.

He loves to:

Tackle mommy and daddy, and everyone else!
Wrestle
Play with cars
He has a fascination with trains
Help Mommy cook
Jump off of high things (like the stage at the stake center.... NOT COOL KASHMIN!)
Sing made-up songs all the time (and one minor lyric change to a favorite primary song, "I am stuck on my mission!")
LOVES to play with Makissa and does everything she wants him to, like playing house (that is not going to last for long)
Play with Ipads, Iphones, and anything Electronic....

This boy keeps us on our toes and we love him more than anything. He is our big boy and brings so much joy into our family.
We love you buddy and are so happy that you came to our family, you make us so proud!

Christmas with the Petersons ... 2011

2011-01-22T13:42:00.002-07:00

We spent this Christmas with Brett's Family in stinky Provo... It was cold but the kids had a lot of fun with their cute cousins. I took a few of these pictures from My SIL's blog, but I thought the pictures of Makissa with Nana were priceless. I am debating having the, "oh no I think she just peed" picture, enlarged and hung in the house. More christmas Pictures to come soon (when I can locate the SD card !) Yes I am so organized that nothing ever gets lost or misplaced!

Makissa = Rock Star

2011-01-22T13:10:00.002-07:00

Here is Kissa Showing us how Original she really is. Little Miss Rock Star!

Christmas Dinner with Cheese Man

2011-01-22T12:54:00.005-07:00

This year we had Christmas Dinner at Nana and Papa's house in Provo. We had a plethora of Cheese Balls (thanks to Jaclyn and Nana competing for the best cheese ball recipe).
It was a great dinner after a fun day of opening presents and being together.

Debut Album Released !

2010-12-14T23:51:00.005-07:00

I finally have my finished debut album in my hand! This is so exciting because it has been a very long time coming. Just over seven years and now it is complete!!
I now have 1000 albums sitting in my front room ready for purchase.... !!
SO SO SO excited.
The only thing I regret it not finishing in time to show my daddy. I think he would have been proud of me.

Dear Santa.....

2010-12-10T18:48:00.005-07:00

Dear Santa,

The kids wrote letters to Santa that the Elves came and picked up from our mailbox. These are pictures of what they wrote. Makissa just needed help with spelling. Kashmin helped Mommy write his letter. Rockstin made grunts while Mommy wrote his.

It's Beginning to look a lot like Christmas!!!

2010-12-02T23:07:00.005-07:00

Christmas has finally made itself known at the Peterson's home! All the decorations are up (minus the Christmas lights outside...Brett's job.....) And the pictures are done done done!!!
I am so excited for Christmas this year. We listen to Christmas music everyday. Makissa and Kashmin have all the songs memorized on the CD we listen to, and Rockstin just dances around the room every time it comes on! Oh how I LOVE it :)
We wrote our Santa letters, hung our stockings, decorated the REAL tree and I can't wait until Christmas Break!!!

YAY Christmas :)

Become more FAT..... day....

2010-12-02T22:38:00.003-07:00

Thanksgiving this year was at my mamma's house! It was super fun with all the family we had there. This year the kids were able to play with their cousins (dyers, thunstroms, monsons, cahoons) and Grammy!
We had the best time and the day after Thanksgiving we were able to go pick out my Mom's Christmas tree and help her decorate!

I love the holiday season!

(pictures to come... As soon as Brett can find where he "placed"our SD card... grrrrrr!)

THE costumes

2010-10-29T22:35:00.006-06:00

This years Costume extravaganza begins with the beautiful Witch Makissa. She is sporting the only costume that interested her this year (even from a selection of barbie costumes ... thanks Cherisse for supplying the kids costumes this year!) Kashmin is enamored with Buzz light year. He pushes all the buttons on this costume and thinks he is flying. He LOVES this costume. Rock Rock is "Mater" from the Disney movie cars. He has no idea why I strapped him into this costume and you can't really tell what it is, but I still think he looks cute :)

Brett and Briette's fabulous costumes are still to be posted!

The fun has begun

2010-10-20T22:20:00.009-06:00

I know there are a lot of pictures here, but I love including them in this family journal that I turn into a book at the end of each year.... so readers will just have to deal with it! We had so much fun at our "annual pumpkin patch family fun field trip."
We watched pig races, rode the train, maneuvered the corn maze, pet the animals, rode ponies, played in hay and took family pictures!
Gosh I love it in Southern California for the holidays (we have been playing in rain all week and it is so fun!) I even had to get out the kids rain boots and I wore my cute winter jacket to school.... ahhhh this is what makes life so fun :)

My Sweet babies

2010-10-20T16:03:00.004-06:00

Last night while playing with my babies, I noticed how wonderful they really are. Not that I haven't noticed before, but last night it just was refreshing to really appreciate my opportunity to be a mommy and have these sweet little things in my life. It is also humbling to realize that I am not the perfect mom that I wish I was; However, I have hope that my children will stay patient with me as I am striving to be the kind of mom they deserve. I love them and they truly give me more happiness than I could ever dream.

2010-10-14T22:33:00.002-06:00

Makissa's Soccer pictures!

2010-10-10T00:15:00.002-06:00

Sorry to all my dedicated readers (all 2 of you!) Student teaching and night school have been sucking the life out of me.
Here are Kissa's Soccer pictures! She just had another game today and she is loving it! I love to watch her and cheer on the sidelines; however, I never expected to enjoy it as much as I do. I can already feel the soccer mom in me coming out :) I can't wait for Kashmin to start playing, it will be so fun. Both Kash and Rockstin play while kissa is at practice and also at her games. They are actually really good. Rock can consecutively kick the ball and walk. He is a natural!

My baby boy is 1 !

2010-08-28T22:14:00.005-06:00

Today is the day our little Rock rock was born! I can not believe he is already one. It feels like yesterday (when I was calling my midwife who did not show up in time for the birth) I just had him at home! He is such a sweet little boy. Rockstin really loves to be held and we love holding him. He loves to play with balls (especially soccer balls) and runs all over the place chasing Makissa and Kashmin. He is a joy in our lives and we wouldn't be complete without him. We love you with all our heart Rock Rock. Happy First Birthday!

The 72 hour home project!

2010-08-20T16:50:00.005-06:00

Ever since we moved in to our home, we have wanted to build cabinets in our two cut-outs located in the TV room. Well our goal has come true! Brett's parents came for a very quick visit and the entire 72 hours they were here, they were slaving away on building the AMAZING built-in cabinets and shelves. Brett's dad brought all his tools, made all the plans, and worked all day long for three days. Brett's mom also worked alongside him and completed the grunt work that no one wants to really do! I do have to say that Brett and I worked hard as well (of course, I worked harder, naturally!!). They turned out amazing and I am so grateful to Mom and Dad Peterson for helping us complete this LONG project. Here are some images to show off Dad P's craftsmanship.
If ever they want to come again to work on more projects, they are always welcome!!!!

First Day of PreSchool!

2010-08-19T14:45:00.003-06:00

Today is the first day of Preschool for Kashmin! He was so happy to go to school . I bought him a "cars" backpack a few days before. He loved it so much he clung to it all the way home and slept with it all night. His teacher said that he fell asleep during reading time, for about 15 minutes! We love our little Kash.

Makissa also started her second year of preschool. She is loving her class, and acted like a pro when I dropped her off, like she didn't need her mommy at all. I am not sure I like not being needed! She had a fantastic first day and loved her class so much!

Our little Rockstin is also such a joy. Although he is not in Preschool yet ( I am so glad) he is almost one! I can not believe how fast has grown. He is running all over the place. LOVES to be held, points while saying "oooush" Not sure what it means, but it is so cute. We love him to pieces!

Makissa's 1st dance performance!

2010-08-02T21:18:00.002-06:00

Peterson reunion 2010

2010-08-01T12:46:00.006-06:00

5K Family Race!

2010-07-03T12:45:00.004-06:00

Today Brett and I ran a 5K! It was great because we could take jogging strollers, so we made it a family event. Brett pushed the boys and I pushed Kissa. We had a great time and finished the race in 25 minutes 27 seconds. We are not the fastest runners, but we have a lot of fun.

Makissa is 4 years old!

2010-07-02T11:05:00.008-06:00

This year we went to Pump it up for Makissa 4th birthday party! She loved it. She got to jump in bounce houses for 2 hours, then sit in a princess chair to eat cake and open presents! We love you kissa and we can't believe you are already 4. We love watching you learn and grow and we are so thankful you are our daughter!

MUD RUN 2010

2010-06-19T21:38:00.008-06:00

10k MUD RUN! I did it.... I can't believe it....!

The Course: This is a challenging 10k run with suicide hills, low sand crawl, river crossings. two five foot walls with mud on both sides, reservoir crossing (5.5 feet deep), tunnel crawl, slippery hill climb, and the final 30-foot mud pit. This is held annually at Camp Pendleton.

We had 2 groups of 5 (briette, cherisse, austin, luke, greta) (tiffani, brent, samantha, trevor, and friend of trevor)

It was rugged, but so worth it. I can't wait until the next one :)

I think I am now addicted to races !!!
We finished as a group in 1 hr. 32 minutes

Dance class recital Pictures!

2010-06-17T00:24:00.004-06:00

Makissa is having her first dance recital this year! She is in a tap dance and is just so cute! We had pictures today and I just had to take a few!

Makissa's 1st year Pre-school Graduation

2010-06-17T00:13:00.006-06:00

So graduations .... I guess we have a lot of them coming but here is the first of many!
Makissa's first year pre-sch0ol graduation was lots of fun and we are going to miss joy school next year. She made lots of friends, learned a lot, and found the joy in learning. It was a successful school year!

Rock Rocks first hair cut!

2010-06-17T00:03:00.003-06:00

So we finally did it! We cut my baby's hair :(
Ok Ok I know it needed to be cut, but I loved those sweet curls.

Still MISS you .....

2010-05-25T21:44:00.006-06:00

Daddy (aka pops),

Tonight is the night, one year ago, that I had to say goodbye. In just a few hours, you will have finished your journey here and your memory is all I will be able to have for a season. Tonight is hard for me because I remember holding your hand and kissing your cheek the last few seconds you were here. I know you are probably having a grand time with grandma and grandpa, but I am still here missing you. I feel like if I could just hug you or see your face, this hurt inside me would subside, but ... you always know best, so I will trust that you are where you are suppose to be, and fulfilling what Heavenly Father has planned for you.

I just want you to know that I am constantly thinking about you, and I am so thankful for the man you are, because you have shaped the person I am.

I miss you daddy, I miss you for my kids, I miss you for myself, and I miss you for mom too.

Don't forget to remember me every once in a while, check in, if you can, and see if we are alright. I am trying to live to make you proud that I am your last, and of course, most favorite daughter!

Loves

your very sad,

Briette (aka....dots)

Abide with me, 'tis eventide:

Abide with me; ’tis eventide.

The day is past and gone;

The shadows of the evening fall;

The night is coming on.

Within my heart a welcome guest,

Within my home abide.

O Savior, stay this night with me;

Behold, ’tis eventide.

O Savior, stay this night with me;

Behold, ’tis eventide.

Abide with me; ’tis eventide.

Thy walk today with me

Has made my heart within me burn,

As I communed with thee.

Thy earnest words have filled my soul

And kept me near thy side.

O Savior, stay this night with me;
Behold, ’tis eventide.
O Savior, stay this night with me;
Behold, ’tis eventide.

Abide with me; ’tis eventide,

And lone will be the night

If I cannot commune with thee

Nor find in thee my light.

The darkness of the world, I fear,

Would in my home abide.

O Savior, stay this night with me;
Behold, ’tis eventide.
O Savior, stay this night with me;
Behold, ’tis eventide.

My little artist

2010-05-20T12:12:00.002-06:00

Makissa drew this the other day and I asked her what it was. She told me "my picture is called, lollipops and me"
I thought this was so stinking cute I had to post !

6 years... and I still love him :)

2010-05-13T16:21:00.005-06:00

This Saturday is our 6 year anniversary! It is hard to believe that is has gone so fast.
We have accomplished and experienced a lot together in all our 6 years. Some of the highlights are:

Makissa Celisse Peterson (almost 4!)
Kashmin Cameron Peterson (2 1/2)
Rockstin Storrs Peterson (8 months)

BYU graduations
1st home purchase (and all that comes with it)
working at "The Insurance Store"
3 funerals (grandpa J, grandpa Storrs, and DADDY)
New job working at "Liquid Health"
Brett-- started MBA program
Briette -- started Masters of Education program (and working on teaching credentials for K-12)
Brett-- ward clerk
Briette -- sunday school teacher
Makissa -- preschool (starting 2nd year of preschool this year)
Kashmin -- (starting first year of preschool this year)
Rockstin -- (crawling all over and has 2 teeth)

To say the least, we are keeping busy and trying to be good people :)

I am very grateful I am married to Brett (even when he REALLY irritates me!)

Happy Anniversary Brett, Love your face !

Sea World!

2010-05-06T10:09:00.002-06:00

I went to sea world with my sister, Cherisse, and her Kiddies with educational ticket discounts! It was the best. Each ticket was only 5.75
The kids had tons of fun seeing shamu, seals, jelly fish, transparent fish, holding star fish, walking through the aquariums, and just running around all over! It was great and when we got home, I was ready for bed.....

Rock Rock with an old man comb-over

2010-05-04T09:52:00.003-06:00

I took this picture with my phone, so it is not the best quality; however, Rockstin "rocks" the comb-over look :)
Rockstin has 2 teeth now, is crawling all over creation and has the sweetest personality. I LOVE to snuggle him. Kissa and Kash are getting so big so fast. Kissa is going to start Soccer in a few weeks and Kaskmin will be starting his first year of preschool this year :)
I am going crazy with school and Brett is loving his MBA program.
Life is busy, but by keeping busy we are working hard. At least we can say we aren't lazy!

Easter Pictures!

2010-03-31T23:03:00.007-06:00

Easter is here! I took the kids out today for their Easter Pictures. It was fun, but hard to try and be the parent and the photographer at the same time. Little Rock had a hard time, he just wanted to be held, so every time I put him down to snap a picture, he was already crying. These two images were as close as I could get to a smile! Kissa and Kash had a great time running around. Makissa has now taught Kash to call her princess, "princess Makissa..." He is of course, her prince charming!

Mini session with the kiddies!

2010-03-14T18:18:00.005-06:00

It has been a while since I have taken the time to take pictures of my cute babies. After church I made them go out, on our nicely manicured lawn, and pretend to be happy about it! It was fun sparing a few minutes to have some camera time with them.

Makissa's drawings!

2010-03-01T20:34:00.004-07:00

Makissa is our little artist! She draws pictures for us all the time.

In the first picture Makissa drew "kids" and the circles are balls for them to play with!

In the second she just drew some more kids.

I especially like the eyes and how they are different sizes! The pictures are a little "different" looking, but are still so cute.

Kashmin is starting to recognize letters and really LOVES airplanes, cars, guns and pretending to shoot things. Brett tells me this is normal???

Rock rock is 6 months old!

He is rolling all over and just had his first taste of oatmeal cereal! I will have pics coming soon.

We are a busy little family. I started a Masters program (again) hopefully I will be able to finish before my kids are 30. I am also working on getting my Multiple subject credential to teach kindergarten! It should be an exciting adventure for all of us.

Gosh I love my kids!

Valentines!

2010-02-09T16:29:00.004-07:00

Valentines! We made valentines flowers this year for Makissa's preschool class. Makissa has learned to spell and write her name all by herself! She gets frustrated because she can't read books yet, but we are working on that! Kash helped with the valentines and we had tons of fun. He really wants to go potty in the toilet sometimes, but I am not sure if I really want to start potty-training him right now. Is that bad?!?
Next year we will have to make more "boyish" valentines for his preschool class! When I tell them to smile at me they make super "cheese" smiles, and their eyes disappear. I love the stages they are in. They are so sweet almost all the time (and they make the most annoying sounds in the world when they are whining).