Allred Family

Lion King

2009-10-29T21:11:00.000-07:00

In April my mother treated the family to see the production of "Lion King". Casey and I found a sitter for Rocky and we brought Monica along. It was an amazing experience and seeing Monica's face made it even better. The costumes were unbelievable and so intricate. Monica sat on the edge of her seat the whole time and asked me at the end of each scene if was over and when I told her "no" she would squeal in pleasure. Its all she talked about for months and every once in a while will ask to go there again sometime. I was worried that my 3 year old would have a tough time understanding the plot and concept of costumes but she picked up on everything and never lost attention. It's a must for every family if you get the chance!!

If you are still there, Im back!

2009-10-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

I don't expect anyone to still visit my blog after I've taken such a long hiatus from updating it but if you're still here, Id thought Id let you know IM BACK. Now lets all shout for joy.... YAY....!

Hmmmmmm.....

I'll start with 10 things that have happened in our world since I last blogged.

1. We Moved
2. Rocky is 1 year 8 months
3. Monica started preschool
4. Casey started a new job (which I wont post of but most of you know what he is doing)
5. I gained 10 lbs
6. I started to recycle
7. Casey's car broke down twice and his car crashed into my car and took the bumper off
8. I repainted my dinning room table
9. I participated in my second "Susan G. Komen 3 day walk for the Cure"
10. I'm trying out step classes and find them very difficult despite the cheesy appearance

Also, Our desktop computer recently crashed due to my downloading a picture of Jessica Biel. Come to find out, 1 in 5 people who search for Jessica Biel on the web get a Trojan virus. I lost most pictures and many files. I suppose I deserve it for not backing them up but non-the-less, I'm very upset over my loss. Thankfully, not only am I lazy at blogging but also at deleting photos from my camera so I still have a few. Watch for them and more posts to come.

Seven Days Down

2009-05-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

So far so good. Its been a full week now without refined sugar or bread and I feel good! Its been a lot easy then I thought it would be. In a weeks time I have lost 8 lbs so I'm down to 122 lbs and my skin has seen positive effects as well. I have a lot more energy but I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss things. Today has been the first day I had real cravings for something sweet. I almost broke down for a nutrigrain bar but then saw the first ingredients are high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, strawberry puree, glycerine, and sugar. Uhhhh no thanks! then I craved one of those cheap little blackberry filled pies until I saw that they are 470 calories! The denver egg bowl at Jack-in-the-Box sounded healthy and REALLY GOOD until I saw the caloric count was 720 and 477 from fat! ewwwww way to ruin eggs! Although I haven't given up all unhealthy foods I just couldn't do this one! But right now I'd REALLY love a root beer float and cant stop thinking about it! HA! Hopefully the craving will go away! Id like to look really good in a dress for Mother's Day Tea tomorrow.
I had the desire to weigh 111 lbs by June 1st but I don't think its very realistic. This would put me at Jennifer Aniston's height and weight but I'm not sure its a reasonable goal. I'll shoot for 115 and see how it goes although weight isn't as important to me as how i feel. Wish me luck as I have 23 more days!

Give-it-up for 30 days: Refined Sugar

2009-05-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

A recent episode of Oprah featuring guest host Jenny McCarthy has sparked my interest to give something up for thirty days. Miss McCarthy is creating her own give-it-up blog and so I have decided to adopt the idea. Like her I will be giving up refined sugar for 30 days. Starting tomorrow, May 2nd, and ending June 1st. I have many worries and doubts as to how this will go. At first thought I cant even think of any without sugar however it has got to be possible.... right? I will keep a constant blog throughout the month keeping you all updated on my struggles and progress. I am not only eager to see physical changes but mental and emotional ones as well. My prediction is it will be hard for the first few weeks, almost like detoxing from an addiction, however I hope to feel rejuvenated by the end of the month. My current mood: apprehensive.

Tag

2009-01-30T13:56:00.000-08:00

Tag, Im it! Here is the latestest tag I was given. I suppose if I dont do it now, it will never happen.

Post the fourth picture in your fourth picture folder and blog about it. Then tag four friends.

Here it is folks:

This was taken last sunday. I've never worn a hat before so I took a picture of me in it. I still dont think I have a very hat-friendly face... This photo was taken just before I attempted to jog in the snow. Long story short, it was too cold so I went to Casey's parents and had tacos instead.

I tag: The Marsons, Shannon, Chelsea and Heather

Decorating the Christmas tree

2008-11-29T20:44:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas time and the tree and decorations with lights are a big part of that. I haven't been big in decoration my own apartment because I am limited with what I can do but the tree is something fun I can do now with Monica.

We rearranged our living room, put on some Christmas music and got to work.

Monica's eyes lit up with every ornament she pulled from the box and went from decoration to decoration.

Her favorite was our little snowmen that spell out N-O-E-L. She picked out the "N" as her favorite.

Carter was asleep during the transformation and woke up to his first Christmas experience and of course wanted it all! The look on his face when he first saw everything was priceless!

Monica is very protective over all the decorations and Carter is NOT to have any of them.

She has moved all of the decorations on the tables into a safe pile so he cant get at them. The organization didn't last long but it is so fun to have a little family to get excited with.

This will probably be one of the most fun Christmas' at the Allred home and I look forward to it with childlike anticipation :)

Most exciting post ever!!!

2008-11-28T22:28:00.000-08:00

When most people get together to play cards, it is usually assumed that Poker or blackjack would be the game played. Not at the Allred House- they play canasta. Okay, I'm not going to deny I love the game and jumped at the invite.

Grandpa thought it would be fun to squirt whip cream in the kids mouths and that entertained us for a while.

I think the card game lasted four hours and we still didn't finish.

I am way competitive and so I enjoy anything that gives me the chance to taunt other people.

I ended up winning, but not by much and like I said we didn't finish so who knows how the game would have gone.

I'm feeling lucky though and maybe next time I'll dominate in rummy!

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

I'm one of the worst bloggers. A few weeks will go by without any new posts and then I'll post about a few different things all at once and the cycle continues. I thought I would impress you all by blogging about the events that took place TODAY! I know- crazy huh!?

Thanksgiving 2008:

I grew up on Whidbey Island an rarely go back. Both parents still live over there but for the most part they come over to the "main land" for most family activities. I think the last time I went over was the beginning of summer so I was excited to go back today for Thanksgiving. Monica was thrilled as well and was so excited to see grandpa and her Nina (grandma Rosie). She loves the ferry ride and had to go up to the observation deck to, well.. observe.

The girls

The boys

Our Family

We made our way to grandpa's and of course the first thing I did was head for the kitchen! I found the rolls (which has always been my favorite part of any feast) but wasn't sure if it was taboo to dive in with out being invited to do so, so I was left with only one option- closet eat. I was 2 bites in when Rosie caught me. I was pleased to see she had a sense of humor about the incident.

Dinner was soon after our arrival and we all marveled like little children at the delicious spread that laid before us! Dad and Rosie did a fantastic job at preparing a wonderful thanksgiving dinner

the table was pretty with fall decorations. I have always loved the warmth and joy that comes with the winter holidays. It much appreciated because I hate the winter and would go insane if it wasn't for times like these.

It was Carter's first thanksgiving so we gave him a little bit of everything and he scarfed it down.

It even got in his hair.

The only thing he didn't care for was the ambrosia salad and spit it out.

After dinner we packed up leftovers (what kind of child would I be if I didn't bum food off my folks)and stashed it away for later. It looked really good though and I was tempted to do a second round of feasting.

The turkey kicked in fast and Monica fell asleep immediately after dinner.

I passed out on the couch with my rolls and bloated stomach.

We were reminded of how much Carter is like his Dad

and then Carter zonked out close behind and the rest of us enjoyed a little competitive game of Taboo.

When the kids woke up, my Dad took Monica and Carter and played a little guitar for them. Carter LOVED it and danced and tried to play a little himself. It had to be the sweetest thing ever.

We had the most wonderful thanksgiving and enjoyed being with family. We have so much to be thankful for and although we have faced many trials this year, we have been blessed with so much. Thank you for your support friendship and love!

Twilight

2008-11-23T19:28:00.000-08:00

The much anticipated movie "Twilight" came out this weekend! I read the books a few months ago during some down time while sick and got hooked! Although I found the fight sequences lacking, I loved the story and characters that Stephanie has created. Like most mother/daughter duos around the country, my mother and sister have read the books as well and she treated us to see the first movie last night. My opinion: Awesome! I am always nervous about a movie that is based on a book but I felt the actors were good choices and the stuck very close to the story. Edward and Joseph were heart-pounding and I felt childish cheering with the numerous preteen age girls when they came onto the screen! Ha! I had a fabulous time getting back into the story and although I am sad the book series has finished, I look forward to the three remaining stories to make their way onto the silver screen!

Jumping Jellybeans part 2

2008-11-23T19:11:00.000-08:00

So we had another fun day at "Jump Planet" in Bothell. Casey has had a few extra days at home lately and so he watched Carter while Monica and I had a play date. As you know already... I love it! I am sure the other mothers there find me very annoying while I jump, slide and giggle like I'm any other kid but I don't care - its fun!! Monica and I always have a blast and were happy the Ross' could make it as well. Brysen and Monica are good friends and always have fun together.

In training

2008-11-11T23:21:00.000-08:00

Carter continues to amaze us in his physical growth and strength. At work he loves the walkers and can maneuver suprisingly well! Here are some photos and videos of our little quarterback in training!

pucky

2008-11-11T23:16:00.000-08:00

The word "pucky" dates back in the Allred family to when Casey was a boy. I don't know how it started but I know Casey was the one who first came up with the word. It is used in reference to one's buttocks. We still use it in our family today and are the proud parents of two very cute and tiny puckies!

Madagascar Escape to Africa

2008-11-11T23:06:00.000-08:00

Loved it! We saw it Sat night with the Marsons and thought it was hilarious! Monica makes us watch the first Madagascar movie almost every day so Casey and I were pretty psyched they made a sequel. Finally something new! We give it two thumbs up and recommend it to anyone, even if you're without kids!

After the movie went went to Red Robin to eat. What a fun night!

Ivy's Bridal Shower

2008-11-11T22:13:00.000-08:00

My sister Ivy is getting married in December and as her Matron of honor, I was so excited to throw a bridal shower for her. This past Saturday, the 8th, we had 15 girls join us to celebrate Ivy's upcoming wedding. We ate good food, played a few bridal shower games and opened presents. I had never thrown any kind of shower before so I am positive it could have been better but I was pleased with how it turned out and I think all the ladies had a good time too! Ivy ended up getting to see many of her close friends and hauled in some amazing gifts. With only 3.5 hours of sleep, I seemed to have plenty of energy and had loads of fun. Congrats Ivy!!!

Baby Sitting

2008-11-11T21:34:00.000-08:00

On Friday the 7th, after work, Monica and I went over to our friends the Ross' to babysit while they went out and had some fun. We had a fun night that was a lot calmer and relaxed then I was expecting. The kids played and we watched movies and ate popcorn. I had a blast and look forward to doing it again! Next time we're partying while the parents are away!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-10T22:57:00.000-08:00

This year was a very busy halloween for the Allred's. Monica and I woke up halloween morning and went ding dong ditching. It was something I remember doing when I was little and now am passing the tradition on. We made cupcakes and left them on the doorsteps of a few of our friends. We went through a few batches until I found a good alteration on lemon cupcakes that made them soo yummy. I included a poem I wrote, I can't remember it, delivered it to their doorsteps, then ran for it! Monica loved it. It was fun however next year I may include a hint or just deliver in person as a few people tossed them and a few more questioned me until I broke. Poeple aren't as trusting in random pastries left on their doorsteps as they were in my day. What is this world coming to?

Then we went to the mall and did some indoor trick-or-treating just in case the weather was too bad at night. She was pretty shy about asking store employees for candy but I couldn't blame her, it would take a lot for me to do the same. However, she was very pleased with her hall in the end.

After the mall we headed to our good friends the Marson's in Lake Stevens to enjoy the evening eating pizza, watching movies and trick-or-treating! The weather was crazy on the drive and I saw such a pretty rainbow I had to take a picture!

We had so much fun that night. Monica was a monkey, Logan was Ironman, Larry was the joker and Carter was a banana. Monica and Logan were really into trick-or-treating this year and they could have outlasted the adults I'm sure! When we got back to the Marson's they dumped out their loot and ate candy all night... and so did I!

One word tag

2008-10-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

One Word Tag:

Where is your cell phone? purse

Your significant other? work

Your hair? frizzy

Your mother? lovely
Your father? humble
Your favorite thing? laughter
Your dream last night? confusing
Your favorite drink? water
Your dream/goal? unfulfilled
The room you’re in? clean
Your ex? which?
Your fear? heights!!!
Where do you want to be in 6 years? house
Where were you last night? Ivy's
What you’re not? satisfied
Muffins? fattening
Where you grew up? sticks
The last thing you did? blogspied
What are you wearing? vanilla
Your favorite TV? big
Your pets? nonexistant
Your computer? slow
Your life? crazy
Your mood? sleepy
Missing someone? chelsea
Your car? small
Something you’re not wearing? shoes
Favorite Store? clothing
Your summer? FUN
Like someone? Lots
Your favorite color? blue
When is the last time you laughed? today
Last time you cried? dunno
Who will/would re-post this? nobody
Bath or shower? shower
Holiday? Christmas
Writing utensil? pencil
Vacation activity? history
Bedding preference? crisp
Pet peeves? lots
Cookies? warm
Eggs? Sunnyside
Favorite thing to do on a rainy day? soup
Your biggest strength? heart
Favorite thing about school? learning
Most awesome gift received? compassion
Neighbors? pot
What do you collect? compasses
Oldest kept item from childhood? lamp
Greatest indulgence? shoes!!
Your house? apartment
Fruits or vegetables? both
Quiet or loud? loiet

Tag: Shannon, Heather and Laurie

My sister Alex

2008-10-26T20:24:00.000-07:00

Today I went to my Sisters who lives in Everett. We have been talking about doing some yard work at her place all summer and now that its almost November, we finally decided to do it! We weeded her garden and even made some lasagna boxes! If you're wondering, lasagna boxes are compost-like boxes that you add a layer of compost then newspaper, then yard clippings and more newspaper. Next, a layer of rich bark and leaves and then another layer of newspaper, etc... You keep building up the layers until it reaches just over the top of the box. Then you put plastic over the whole thing and let it sit. The layers will heat up and break down over the winter and be fresh, rich soil to plant in the spring. It was a lot of fun to learn how to do this and help out my sis!

When we were done we went in and ate some pot roast tacos that she created! The were soooo awesome. I'll defiantly be making these again! Thank you Alex for a fun day!

Pumpkin Patch, Dress Up and Halloween at work

2008-10-26T13:11:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Monica and I were going to meet some friends at the pumpkin patch for some fall fun. Unfortunately due to miscommunication we ended up at different pumpkin patches. So with Carter in the snugly (which he was way too big for) and holding Monica's hand, the kiddos and I decided to stay and have some fun by ourselves. Monica wanted to do the corn maze first. However once we got in, we both really wanted to get out. It was not difficult. Then we decided to find our perfect pumpkins! We searched and searched until we find the perfect 2. Lucky me I got to hold a pumpkin in each hand and carter hanging off my front through the pumpkin fields and back to the barn. After we paid for our pumpkin, the kid's maze caught Monica's eyes and she went through it over and over again. I think it had the reverse effect as a rat in a maze because the more she went through, the more confused she got. After the pumpkin patch we met up with the Mason's for some pizza. It was a fun day!

Later that same night, Monica and I played and played. We had tea parties and played princesses. I played a dad and she was the mom. We rode bike around the apartment and were fishes too. She still asks for me to dress up with her every chance she gets. I love to take opportunities to play with her when I get the chance. Sometimes I get to busy and wrapped up in the everyday that I neglect to focus on what she may want to do.

On Friday Gold's had a parent's night out where we got to dress up. I decided to dress up just an hour before work so I was a little short on options. However, the typical 80's garb is always a great fallback! I got a few confused looks however. Unfortunately for me, the 80's look is back in style and I think people had a hard time figuring out if I was in costume or in my typical Friday night attire. So sad!

Stop it!

2008-10-12T22:37:00.000-07:00

I was warned about boys and how they are so much different tempered then girls. For the longest time I thought it was hog-wash... until Carter. How can a 7 month old be so much trouble. Eating chocolate when I'm not looking; knocking over the trash to eat the popcorn; chewing on cords; climbing into small places and crying when he cant get out. Our place isn't too unsafe but he finds it! I think we are in for an interesting few years! His favorite place is under his excersaucer and not in it. He crawls inside and then fusses to get out. As soon as I get him out, he crawls right back inside!

He is still a good baby though and I can only say "stop that" with a smile on my face.

Jumping Jellybeans!

2008-10-12T22:28:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday I met up with a gal that goes to Gold's, Diana, and her son Alex at Jump Planet. For those of you who don't know, Jump Planet is a room full of bouncy houses and slides for children of all ages. We had a blast and it was really fun having a play date and making a few new friends! Mike and Brysen Ross joined us as well and we all had a great time! I think I had more fun then Monica though and will probably make this a new weekly thing! Jump Tuesdays! We will be attending the 11:00 session every Tuesday so join us!

Sunday at the Allred's

2008-10-05T22:51:00.000-07:00

Today was conference and we went to Casey's parent's home to watch. We usually end up there on Sunday's to visit with family and eat good food! Shannon and mark come with their three kids so add our two and Casey's little brother, that makes twelve of us! We have so much fun talking, playing some rock band and keeping the kids entertained. I wanted to test out our camera so I took a few pictures and a video. Sorry, no rock band pictures! We still have to perfect our band "The Whitey Tighties" before you get pictures of us! If you're wondering why Grace is in a pillow case, so am I but she sure is CUTE!!

Iron Man 2008

2008-10-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

I got my new camera just in time for the 2008 Iron man in Everett. My friend Julie (in the middle wearing light purple)and a guy Casey knows, Jon, competed this year and we didn't want to miss it! They looked great and Jon even took a trophy home for best men's posing!! Here are some pics of Julie with the girls she competed against. She looked great! You'll get em' next year Julie! After the Competition we met Annie and Mitchell at Shari's for a late dinner. What a fun night!

New Camera

2008-10-05T22:10:00.000-07:00

After seeing the pictures from Phantom and taking almost an hour to get the camera to work long enough to get them on the computer, I decided I was fed up with my taped together sad excuse of a camera. I gave it a boot and bout a new one! I am not a photographer and don't pretend to be one so I am not ashamed to say it is not the best but its all I need!

Phantom of the Opera

2008-10-05T21:55:00.000-07:00

On Thursday Casey and I went to see Phantom of the Opera at the Paramount in Seattle
with my sister Ivy and her fiance Michael. We loved it! I had no idea what it was about- the only thing I knew was that it is a pretty well known play. The special effects were amazing and the set was beautiful. The singing and orchestra were phenomenal! I thought the Opera in the play was the best part and would love to go see one sometime. We parked about nine blocks away and it was a perfect night for a stroll through Seattle- minus the bloody glove on the sidewalk!

Game night with the Marsons

2008-09-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago we went over to our friend's, the Marsons for game night. I love games and jumped at the invite. We ordered some pizzas and ate brownies while we played. Logan and Monica had fun coloring, playing playstation games and trains and the adults had fun playing "Clue" and "Catch Phrase". Casey and I learned we are no good at either, but we still had a great night!

I love kids!

2008-09-28T20:29:00.001-07:00

I work part time at a Gold's Gym Kid's Klub in Bothell so I get to meet and play with all kinds of kids and it makes for a very fun and sometimes interesting day! I get see all kinds of crazy things things such as costumes, temporary tattoos, outfits that kids picked out themselves (the other day a cute little girl came in her bathing suite and boots- she looked like a gogo dancer), etc... They're usually very cute and/or creative! I thought I had seen it all until Mallory came in one day and decided to...

Color a mustache and beard on her face with a permanent green marker. She also colored one arm green too! It's amazing what an eight year old will do when her older brother dares her! Needless to say I died laughing and realized how much I really do appreciate kids for their unique personalities - something I haven't always been the best at.

mom sends flowers!

2008-09-28T20:24:00.000-07:00

My mom is so sweet! The day after the 3 day walk I had a knock on the door. It was a delivery girl from a florist with a beautiful rose bouquet sent by my mom! It had 6 roses- 1 for every ten miles I walked.

3 fabulous days!

2008-09-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

The 3 day walk for Breast Cancer was amazing! It was long and hard and possibly one of the most physically grueling things I have ever done! I didn't train as much as they suggested so I went in pretty raw, hoping it would be as easy as I thought. I was way wrong! I thought I was in good shape but the blisters, chin splints and my low arches didn't come to mind when I first signed up for the event.

No matter! This wasn't about any of that. This was about pushing ourselves beyond the everyday to recognize those among us who are fighting a battle everyday. I had an experience of a lifetime meeting people who have been touched by breast cancer. Listening to they're stories and meeting those who have gone through it themselves was an opportunity I'll cherish always. My hopes for walking were to help lessen the chances that my daughter, sisters, mother and all women and men I love, will ever have to experience what others have had to endure! I can't wait for next year!

My Montage

2008-09-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

Before I blog, I thought I would put together a montage of my experience like the one my sister made! I'll blog more when I am not so doped up on pain meds and have more time! Thank you for sharing this experience with me!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Opening ceremonies

2008-09-15T16:34:00.000-07:00

My sister Ivy is fabulous and attended opening and closing ceremonies for the three day walk to support me and my team. Here is her video she made (I stole it from her blog)! She is so talented and she always know how to do something real special! Thanks Ivy!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Bachelorette Bash

2008-09-08T22:25:00.000-07:00

Saturday Night I met up with some gals from work for Carina's Bachelorette party! We all wore black shirts while Carina wore white and a white veil. We met up at the gym and all left for a restaurant called "Chopstix" with dueling pianos. I was so excited because there was a bouncer on the way in and at the age of 24, I finally was carded for the first time!

we ate dinner and enjoyed the pianos. We requested a few songs and had fun dancing too!

It was a goofy and fun girls night and I had sooo much fun!

I rolled in at about 1:00am- an extremely late hour for an old married woman like myself. I look forward to more girls nights too come!

Zoo with the Rosss'

2008-09-08T21:38:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 6th: Monica, Carter and I met friends at their place to begin our play date to the zoo! Monica made friends with two fun and wonderful kids, Marissa and Bryson, at the gym where I work. Their parents are also very cool and we all get along real well! They invited us to accompany them to member appreciation day at the zoo and we were more then eager to go. I had never taken Monica to the Woodland Park Zoo and was so excited to have this experience with her!

The zoo was a blast! The kids enjoyed:

bouncy houses

face painting

flamingo hats

climbing on things

and Climbing in things

After the festivities, we walked around the zoo and looked at animals. The kids had fun running around and Dawn and I enjoyed chatting and getting to know each other.

Carter had fun too. He was a good sport mostly.

But got a little overwhelmed too!

We finished the afternoon with a trip to Dick's Hamburgers! I found out a neat talent that Dawn has so if you ever meet her, you HAVE to ask her to perform it for you!

Monica, Carter and Bryson fell asleep on the way home- a good sign that they all had a great day!

We had a great afternoon with the Rosss' and look forward to another play date soon!

BACONFEST!!!!

2008-09-01T16:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Pam and Mark Chavez hosted the 4Th Annual Bacon Fest. It was very fun and of course- full of bacon! I was asked to be a judge. Everyone brought a dish that centered around bacon as a key ingredient. We had lots of yummy, bazaar and unique dishes ranging from bacon dip to bacon wrapped dates, chocolate bacon cupcakes and "pig droppings". I had a blast being a judge and getting to try all 15 bacon dishes. I had to go bust butt at the gym this morning but it was worth it! I look forward to attending baconfest next year and entering a dish instead of judging!

If Casey was Spiderman, Uncle Ben would still be alive!

2008-08-28T22:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I called Casey after work, little did I know, while we were talking of trivial daily things, he was pinning a shoplifter to the floor! Let me tell you the story:
Alderwood mall has two AT&T stores. One is a kiosk in the center of the mall and one is a store next to the food court. The employees take turns working each and yesterday Casey was working at the kiosk. He was helping a gentleman and headed to go to the store for an item he needed. He passes Zumies where a police woman was talking to some shop lifters. Casey mentioned to the guy next to him that they were "Busted!". He turned the corner near the AT&T store and heard the alarms go off! Three big men had taken the I-phones on display, cut the cords and ran out the door, setting off all alarms. Casey's job has taught him to ignore shoplifters and let the police handle the problem but these guys were to close to Casey for him to just stand aside and let them go. Without hesitation and within seconds casey realized what happened, he body checked one guy against the store door and threw him to the floor. All of the phones flew out and the guy got back up and fought with Casey. Casey grabbed his jacket and the guy wrestled out of it and ran. Casey caught up to him and threw him to the ground in front of Auntie Anne's and pinned him to the floor! He called for someone to get the police officer at Zumies and she went after the second guy and ended up in a struggle outside the mall. The third guy stuck around for some reason and all criminals were apprehended thanks to Casey! The police found more stolen items in their car and all men will be charged with felonies. I hope they will be locked away for a few years, at least long enough for Casey to get onto a police department so he wont be at AT&T when they come back for him! My husband is a "bad A" and I am so proud of him!

Sweet Baby

2008-08-26T21:45:00.001-07:00

Carter has such a sweet spirit! We dont know how we lucked out with a little guy who is happy all the time! He really is our little buddy...

Seahawks v.s Bears

2008-08-26T21:28:00.000-07:00

Our friends Larry and Hellen get season tickets to the Seahawks every year! We were lucky enough to enjoy their seats while they were away on vacation! Thanks Again! Casey and I went to the pre-season Seahawk/bears game on Saturday the 16th and had a great time! We wanted to start the season off right so we left the kids with G-Jo and went to Walmart for some Seahawk attire! Sure enough everyone was sporting some kind of blue and we fit right in with the sea of Hasselbeck jerseys! We had a great time but left early to beat the traffic! I am relatively positive the Seahawks won after we left. I guess us leaving was what they needed to turn the game around... We probably wont be asked back!

I Spy with My Little Eye

2008-08-07T13:45:00.001-07:00

Blog Spies!

2008-08-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

So the kids and I have spent a lot of time this summer at the beach. Monica loves to build sandcastles, collect rocks and sea shells to take baths with later and jump in the waves! Carter and I usually stay on the blanket on the sand but occasionally I will go play with Mo if Casey is with us. On one recent trip Monica got brave enough to go wading in the sound. She kept getting deeper and deeper and Casey and I were getting nervous. Sure enough a wave swept her off her feet and I had to go running in to get her. Jeans, sweater and all. But what did I find!? Monica is a natural swimmer and although she couldn't touch the bottom, she was able to doggie paddle and keep her head above water until I got there! Phew! needless to say, I have gone in the water with her ever since and found I had been missing out on some fun times with my baby girl!

Bite Me!

2008-08-07T12:53:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday August 5th, Carter at five and a half months cut his first tooth! Needless to say we are so excited and it will only be a matter of time before he can grub on some Dick's Hamburgers with his Daddy! Until then, however, he will simply have to stick with his formula and baby food. Here is our first attempt at introducing him to rice cereal!

The following attempts went a little better and now I cant feed him fast enough!

My Birthday

2008-07-31T14:46:00.000-07:00

My Birthday was yesterday and I celebrated my 24th year! Time has flown by so fast a little too fast maybe. During my 23rd year of life I grew a little older and maybe a little wiser. I've discovered its OK to be particular on things you feel strongly about but you have to give a little too. I've discovered that good people can act bad and that's OK sometimes too. I've discovered that I think an older man is better because he keeps me on track!

Casey and I Celebrated my Birthday on Monday by golfing and Kayaking. Casey's sister Shannon watched the kids ALL day and allowed us a day of freedom and some much needed Casey/Rosa bonding time. We started the day out early and dropped the kids off and headed to the ferry. We grabbed some food before we got on the mulkiteo boat. Casey had chicken and fries and I had a kids cone at Iver's. We arrived on Whidbey Island and went a golf'n. Casey forgot his backpack that has my shoes so I had to golf in flip flops.

It worked ok because I ended up beating him! I can't brag too much though because we both did horrible (except Casey's Birdie on hole 2). These are out first shots!

After Golf we headed to the Keystone Ferry and took it to Port Townsend on the peninsula. We arrived to the Kayaking place and rented a few single kayaks and headed out to see. Casey soon found out that his large muscles don't provide the stability he needs and his constant rocking made him sick. He decided to stay close to shore and paddle around and instructed me to go on without him. So I did! I only went down the coast for about 15 minutes and realized I missed him so I headed back and we ended our trip a little early.

We had about a half hour before the ferry left so we decided to get some Waterfront Pizza and sit on the beach to maow down or food. We had almost finished when some birds thought it would be fun to poop all over us! Seriously it splattered all over Casey and Myself! We died laughing (might have even dry heaved a little) and headed to the ferry!

4 ferry rides, 1 half-round of golf, 30 minutes of kayaking, free of 2 kids, and a little bird poop on top!~ It was the perfect birthday!!!

"Fat Verses Muscle" 5 rounds of intense ars whooping combat

2008-07-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

In the Defensive corner we have the all-to-common, the lazy, the hard to get rid of ars fat. And in the Offensive corner is the rock solid, hard working lean mass of pure muscle. We have gone 5 month-long rounds of hand to foot combat! Who will come out victorious and who will wither away.... Stay tuned for more punishing rounds to come!

Yesterday Casey and I did the water dunking body fat test! Some things are personal and should remain that way so I wont divulge my body fat percentage but lets just say I was pleasantly surprised and am looking forward to losing even more. Only 10 more lbs to lose to get to 13%! Wish me luck!

America's Next top Model: Your's truely

2008-07-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

I mentioned on my last "favorite 10 " an America's Next Top Model night with the girls. I finally got the pictures back and am happy to expand a little more about my embarrassing night! When Pam first approached me about her America's next top model night I was picturing some girls just getting together to watch a marathon or something. I was excited because I love watching skinny, food deprived girls smack each other around and model on the side... However I was wrong. What Pam had in mind was different.... We were going to be the models. She had some crazy ideas but I knew it would be fun and it was! We didn't do any of the crazy poses like she planned (such as being a tree :( ) but the pictures turned out great and us girls had a great night! Here's some of mine:

2008-06-30T15:22:00.000-07:00

Top 10 things of last week in no particular order!

1. America's next top model night (pictures to come)
2. Visiting teachers at the park and Ice cream truck
3. Going to the beach with Casey and the kids.
4. Going to the beach with just monica and building sand castles.
5. Whirlyball fundraising event
6. I have to add gas can girl!
7. A special event for my sister (I wont give it away just yet!)
8. fitting into my old silvers
9. Spin class
10. Bubble gum ice cream

No words can describe

2008-06-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

Today I was out for a jog and a passed a women walking toward me. She was bear footed, smoking and caring a gas can! Needless to say, I ran a little faster and was thankful she was going in the opposite direction!

Race for the cure

2008-06-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

So this morning I woke up at 6:30 to Race for the Cure to benefit breast cancer research. I actually planned to wake up earlier because the race was in Seattle and started at 8:00 plus I had to check in and get my number and such. Well I woke up, threw on some clothes and running shoes and began the day. I went by myself :( and arrived in Seattle about 7:20, registered, put on my racing t-shirt, attached my number (4512) and made my way to the starting line. I got there with 10 minutes to spare and was anxious for the race. The announcer kept counting down "Ten minutes to the start of the women's competitive 5K race.... 7 minutes to the Women's competitive race...." Competitive!? I thought it was just a fun 5K run! Well foolish me found myself at the front of the starting line. Doing a few stretchies and knee raises (to pretend I knew what I was doing), I realized I was surrounded by women with racing shorts, tight aerodynamic tops and top of the line running shoes... I didn't belong in the front. Then I looked ahead of me and the race could have followed one of two course options. It could have gone straight or up. I asked the lady next to me which way the race went and of course... it went up! The race began and as soon as I reached 10 paces, I had been past by all those ladies with little clothing and some old ladies and some kids.... and some ladies with strollers... No joke! I found my pace and turned on the tunes. Shortly into the race I found a girl walking. She looked no older then myself and in better shape...everyone was just jogging by. I thought, 'this girl needs motivation' so I jogged up next to her and said "Don't stop, I am going sooo slow so just run with me!" She said "thank you" and started to jog. Feeling a small victory and quite proud of myself, that little brat takes off and I never saw her again! Oh well, so I continued on and at about 1.5 miles I saw the girls that were beside my at the starting line jogging on the viaduct coming back. They had to already be 7 minutes ahead. I cheered to them in support and continued to listen to a my Bon Jovi. At the halfway point I was met with volunteers handing out water to the runners that past. This is particularly tricky and I found myself half drowning with water all over the front of me so I tossed it aside and kept going. The course was all up hill the whole way (I Don't know how that was possible seeing as it was a round trip, but it was). I dry-heaved twice, dropped my IPod twice, and snapped a few pics along the way. The end of the race was lined with supporters and they fueled a generous spirt to the end. All-in-all I had a great time! I finished the race in 27 minutes 46 seconds and feel like it was a small victory! I didn't come in first but I was far from last, and that's just fine with me! PS... See if you can spot waldo. I am toward the front.... hehe!

woop woop

2008-06-20T22:04:00.000-07:00

I've decided to mimic my sister Ivy (she has always been a good person to steal ideas from) and post the top ten things from my week. Here are this weeks top ten things in no particular order:

1. Spin class!
2. 5K race through Seattle
3. Going to the Park with the kiddos
4. Making up a new recipe for a yummy pasta salad
5. Splurging from my diet on some Junior Mints
6. Ordering some things from Victoria's secret
7. 4 people telling me I look skinny in less then 10 minutes (thanks for the ego boost!)
8. Nights with Casey
9. Paying off and canceling my credit card... (Dear Capital One, youre not "in my wallet" any more!
10. Losing 2 lbs!

My Dad Got Hitched!

2008-06-13T12:21:00.000-07:00

So Last weekend Casey, Monica, Carter and I accompanied my sisters Ivy and Alex down to Sierra Vista, Arizona for my Father's wedding to his long lost love, Rosi years Isbell. Rosi and my dad were engaged in college and circumstances tore them apart many years ago. Well many years later, fate has brought them back together to share in each others company until death does them part. It was a beautiful ceremony in Rosi's back yard and we are so happy to have Rosi and her family join ours!

3 months and 3 years

2008-05-29T14:52:00.000-07:00

So Carter just turned 3 months old! I cannot believe how fast time is flying by. He is growing fast and already has made into 9 month clothing!!! So much for all the cute baby clothes I bought for my little newborn! I don't think Carter was ever the size of a newborn ;) He is already trying to roll over and it wont be long until he gets his first tooth!
Monica too has hit a milestone as well. She has passed her 3rd birthday on may 20(although she claims to be 4 so she can play video games). We will celebrate her birthday on may 31st at the children's museum in Everett. She has invited many of her friends and is anxiously awaiting her "Finding Nemo" party, a theme she so excitedly chose herself. We bought her a big girl bike with training wheels pretty much just to see her face when we give it to her! I will post more about it after the party.

The 3 Day Walk for Breast Cancer

2008-04-18T21:06:00.001-07:00

I am so excited! Even though my life has been struck with a lot of tragities and dissapointments including the death of my Grandma, Casey not getting the job at Everett P.D. and a dear friend on her deathbed, a little glimmer of hope and love is pushing me through this tough time! I recently have registered for "The 3 Day walk" to raise money for funding Breast Cancer research. I have pledged to raise $2200(after paying $90 myself) but I have a goal to raise $2500. My partner, Timerie, and I have formed the team "Titty Twister" and together our goal is $5000! I know it will be a lot of hard work including training for the 60 mile walk and doing hours and hours of fundraising but I cant think of a better thing to do with my spare time! I dont like asking for money. Its quite embarrassing to hit up my family and friends but I have to remember that its not for me, its for a good cause and they always can say "no". I am hoping though that people will be willing to donate even a small amount. Anything will help me reach my goal and even help reach the ultimate goal of finding a cure for Breast Cancer. Wish me luck!

PS: If you feel like donating, you can click the link:

http://08.the3day.org/site/TR/Walk/SeattleEvent?px=1966103&pg=personal&fr_id=1189

Where is Heaven?

2008-03-11T13:50:00.000-07:00

So last night Casey Monica and I were watching the newest Harry Potter movie. There was a scene where Dumbledore (Dumbledore is an old wizard with a long gray beard) is talking with Harry. Monica and I are snuggled up together but I see her looking a little confused. She turns to me and asks "Is that Heavenly Father or Jesus". Oh Boy! I told her "Neither sweetie, that's a wizard now watch the movie." Still unsatisfied she continues... "Well where is Heavenly Father." I respond, " Well he is in Heaven." She asks, "Where is Heaven?"
{Ok Casey, stop the movie!} How in the world did my 2 year old become so smart!? I thought these were questions that she would have when she was older. Maybe when her fish dies in a few years or something. "Well, Monica Heaven is a wonderful place in the sky (shifty eyes) where people we love and who have died get to live with Heavenly Father and Jesus, like Daddy's Grandma." Monica, "Daddy's grandma lives with Heavenly Father." "That's right."
{Ok, you can play the movie Casey.} Monica asks again, "So, is Heavenly Father in this movie?"
Having a 2 year old is fun. You never know the little things that they're going to say. Sometimes its really cute like when she told a stop light "Dude, stop Blinking." and sometimes its quite embarrassing like when she told my sister "that guy is old!" and they were still right next to him. Its always fun to wonder what she is telling others when we're not around. So be careful what you say, you never know what these little 2 year old sponges are soaking up just to regurgitate their newly found information elsewhere and usually at a real inappropriate time and place... especially ours. And if anyone knows how to teach Monica the complexities of Heaven and Earth, I am home most days.

The Allred Sigh

2008-03-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

So I am new to this whole blogging thing but it seems everyone else has one and since I have an e-mail, cafemom, facebook and myspace account, etc..., I might as well add one more thing to manage. Besides, it will allow me a place to post my ramblings and incoherent thoughts that Casey may find weird and would respond with what I lovingly refer to as "The Allred Sigh". This is a quiet and sometimes hard-to-catch sigh of displeasure that most Allred's don't even notice doing. Even my daughter Monica might do it at times when I inconvenience or annoy her. It makes me wonder if it is a part of they're genetic make-up. A gene that passes from generation to generation publicly displaying a moment of unhappiness. Now, I don't have a problem with this particular gene, in fact it lets me know when I have made someone frustrated or mad without them knowing I know, however it is a phenomenon that puzzles me. Unfortunately, It seems that I too have started sighing so perhaps its not gene at all but an inheritance to anyone who joins the Allred clan. The question is.. can it be stopped? Sighhhhh...... we'll see....